EMDR Therapists in Indianapolis, IN

Photo of Nicole Brummett, LMHC, Counselor
Nicole Brummett
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46256
Niki is proficient in CBT, TF-CBT, and EMDR, evidence-based therapies addressing various trauma aspects.
Niki, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with an extensive 18-year background, specializes in working with adults, adolescents, and couples. She earned her Bachelor of Psychology degree from the University of Illinois and her Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree from Valparaiso University.
Niki is proficient in CBT, TF-CBT, and EMDR, evidence-based therapies addressing various trauma aspects.
Niki, a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with an extensive 18-year background, specializes in working with adults, adolescents, and couples. She earned her Bachelor of Psychology degree from the University of Illinois and her Master of Clinical Mental Health Counseling degree from Valparaiso University.
(463) 466-5304 View (463) 466-5304
Photo of Barbara A. Mills, LMHC, SEP, Counselor
Barbara A. Mills
Counselor, LMHC, SEP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
EMDR is one of only two treatment modalities approved by the World Health Organization for individuals with trauma and PTSD.
At Sunstone Health & Wellness Barbara offers many alternative modalities, as well as traditional therapy, to support you in finding the solutions to your problems. Barbara strives to offer unique, but profound, approaches for people looking for treatment outside of traditional therapy. Art Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and Yoga techniques are beneficial because of their ability to reach past words and enhance talk therapy by incorporating mind, body, and spirit into your treatment.
EMDR is one of only two treatment modalities approved by the World Health Organization for individuals with trauma and PTSD.
At Sunstone Health & Wellness Barbara offers many alternative modalities, as well as traditional therapy, to support you in finding the solutions to your problems. Barbara strives to offer unique, but profound, approaches for people looking for treatment outside of traditional therapy. Art Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and Yoga techniques are beneficial because of their ability to reach past words and enhance talk therapy by incorporating mind, body, and spirit into your treatment.
(317) 653-4202 View (317) 653-4202
Photo of Christopher Toomer - Indy OCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Indy OCD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46226
This includes advanced training in CBT, ERP, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and SPACE, as well as academic degrees from Harvard University, Northwestern University, and The Ohio State University.
We provide adults and children (10+) lasting relief from OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, separation anxiety, school refusal, generalized anxiety, health anxiety, panic, and phobias. We build strong therapeutic relationships with kindness and humor, and include and educate family members when needed to support clients at home.
This includes advanced training in CBT, ERP, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, and SPACE, as well as academic degrees from Harvard University, Northwestern University, and The Ohio State University.
We provide adults and children (10+) lasting relief from OCD, PTSD, social anxiety, separation anxiety, school refusal, generalized anxiety, health anxiety, panic, and phobias. We build strong therapeutic relationships with kindness and humor, and include and educate family members when needed to support clients at home.
(463) 243-6494 View (463) 243-6494
Photo of Bailey Trotter, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bailey Trotter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46280
Bailey Trotter is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a focus in trauma and substance abuse in Indiana who has been practicing since 2015. She has been trained in EMDR. Bailey's experience is widespread, but the core is often in substance use and exploring how a use disorder ripples out to affect other areas of our life and relationships. She works with individuals from adolescence into late adulthood and have training to assess and address trauma- acute and sustained.
Bailey Trotter is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with a focus in trauma and substance abuse in Indiana who has been practicing since 2015. She has been trained in EMDR. Bailey's experience is widespread, but the core is often in substance use and exploring how a use disorder ripples out to affect other areas of our life and relationships. She works with individuals from adolescence into late adulthood and have training to assess and address trauma- acute and sustained.
(317) 900-4457 View (317) 900-4457
Photo of Heather Fosnaugh - Heather Fosnaugh, LMHC, EMDR Therapy & Intensives, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Heather Fosnaugh, LMHC, EMDR Therapy & Intensives
Counselor, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46237
I can support those who are interested in accelerated progress with EMDR Intensives and/or adjunct EMDR with a primary talk therapist at my practice or another location.
You’re intelligent and a hard worker, yet you continue feeling pulled down by the weight of stress, nagging thoughts and uncomfortable memories from the past. You’ve always pushed through hard times but now you’re overwhelmed, feeling on edge and having a hard time keeping up with work and family. Sometimes the thoughts you work hard to forget pop into your head at the most inconvenient times. No one should feel overloaded and weighed down by the past.
I can support those who are interested in accelerated progress with EMDR Intensives and/or adjunct EMDR with a primary talk therapist at my practice or another location.
You’re intelligent and a hard worker, yet you continue feeling pulled down by the weight of stress, nagging thoughts and uncomfortable memories from the past. You’ve always pushed through hard times but now you’re overwhelmed, feeling on edge and having a hard time keeping up with work and family. Sometimes the thoughts you work hard to forget pop into your head at the most inconvenient times. No one should feel overloaded and weighed down by the past.
(317) 342-8232 View (317) 342-8232
Photo of Ross Robertson, MS, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Ross Robertson
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46240
Ross is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and behavior consultant specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He has a clinical focus on trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, behavioral management, navigating psychosis, teen/adolescent issues, family systems, and relationship issues. Ross is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). He utilizes EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), as well as somatic therapies for trauma and anxiety.
Ross is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and behavior consultant specializing in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). He has a clinical focus on trauma/PTSD, mood disorders, behavioral management, navigating psychosis, teen/adolescent issues, family systems, and relationship issues. Ross is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP). He utilizes EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), as well as somatic therapies for trauma and anxiety.
(463) 219-5227 View (463) 219-5227
Photo of Shelley Landis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shelley Landis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
My clients will be guided through various healing modalities including–EMDR, AFTT-A (Attachment-focused trauma treatment for adults), polyvagal yoga, somatic experiencing, Reiki and more.
We will embark on a path of healing together, as you journey to meet your most Authentic Self. Perhaps you have experienced early attachment trauma or more recent shock traumas. Perhaps you have been diagnosed with PTSD or Complex PTSD; you may experience debilitating symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. Perhaps the way you experience life has you feeling stuck, disconnected, alone; you are ready to step into a new way of being. On your therapeutic journey, you will discover your innate strengths, increase your capacity to be vulnerable, increase appreciation of life and gain true resiliency. Let me be your guide!
My clients will be guided through various healing modalities including–EMDR, AFTT-A (Attachment-focused trauma treatment for adults), polyvagal yoga, somatic experiencing, Reiki and more.
We will embark on a path of healing together, as you journey to meet your most Authentic Self. Perhaps you have experienced early attachment trauma or more recent shock traumas. Perhaps you have been diagnosed with PTSD or Complex PTSD; you may experience debilitating symptoms of anxiety and/or depression. Perhaps the way you experience life has you feeling stuck, disconnected, alone; you are ready to step into a new way of being. On your therapeutic journey, you will discover your innate strengths, increase your capacity to be vulnerable, increase appreciation of life and gain true resiliency. Let me be your guide!
(317) 676-0254 View (317) 676-0254
Photo of Emily Koehler, LMHC, RYT, Counselor
Emily Koehler
Counselor, LMHC, RYT
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46216  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, Yoga for 12 Step Recovery, Daring to Rest, and Yoga for Trauma.
Accepting new clients! I work with clients who identify as being highly sensitive and prone to people pleasing and perfectionism. I can support you in finding ways to live and work that honor your true nature and strengths. Not honoring your needs may be leading to overuse of food or alcohol, anxiety, burnout, or relationship issues. I enjoy supporting clients as they learn to listen to their inner wisdom, set better boundaries, and gain clarity on next right steps.
I am trained in EMDR, Yoga for 12 Step Recovery, Daring to Rest, and Yoga for Trauma.
Accepting new clients! I work with clients who identify as being highly sensitive and prone to people pleasing and perfectionism. I can support you in finding ways to live and work that honor your true nature and strengths. Not honoring your needs may be leading to overuse of food or alcohol, anxiety, burnout, or relationship issues. I enjoy supporting clients as they learn to listen to their inner wisdom, set better boundaries, and gain clarity on next right steps.
(317) 434-3092 View (317) 434-3092
Photo of Amber Trejo I Childhood Trauma And Attachment Specialist, MA, LMFT, CCTP, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amber Trejo I Childhood Trauma And Attachment Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Waitlist for new clients
Using psycho-education about trauma, your nervous system, EMDR and somatic approaches; I help you understand the ways your trauma has impacted you, how some of your symptoms are your body's way of protecting you and how to heal and find joy.
Have you experienced trauma that is currently impacting the way you show up in your relationships or as a parent/significant other? Do you find yourself trapped in negative patterns or communication cycles that push you further away from the authentic connection you so deeply desire? Do you want to learn how to heal from the trauma you've experienced and not pass it on? I believe with a deep knowing that we can heal from the wounds of our past and even develop authentic genuine attachments. I lean on the transformational power of relationship and a mind/body approach to help you heal and find joy again.
Using psycho-education about trauma, your nervous system, EMDR and somatic approaches; I help you understand the ways your trauma has impacted you, how some of your symptoms are your body's way of protecting you and how to heal and find joy.
Have you experienced trauma that is currently impacting the way you show up in your relationships or as a parent/significant other? Do you find yourself trapped in negative patterns or communication cycles that push you further away from the authentic connection you so deeply desire? Do you want to learn how to heal from the trauma you've experienced and not pass it on? I believe with a deep knowing that we can heal from the wounds of our past and even develop authentic genuine attachments. I lean on the transformational power of relationship and a mind/body approach to help you heal and find joy again.
(463) 217-0927 View (463) 217-0927
Photo of Sarah B Towers, MS Ed, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah B Towers
Counselor, MS Ed, LMHC
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46227
As a licensed mental health counselor and EMDR therapist, I have had many opportunities to serve a variety of populations and help clients overcome both personal and professional challenges. I have a passion for helping teens and adults develop coping skills to manage their life stressors. I have had significant therapeutic experience working with clients experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, behavior problems, anger, and grief and loss.
As a licensed mental health counselor and EMDR therapist, I have had many opportunities to serve a variety of populations and help clients overcome both personal and professional challenges. I have a passion for helping teens and adults develop coping skills to manage their life stressors. I have had significant therapeutic experience working with clients experiencing trauma, depression, anxiety, behavior problems, anger, and grief and loss.
(317) 922-0072 View (317) 922-0072
Photo of Megan Hudson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Hudson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46217
I have been trained in EMDR, CPT, CBT, DBT, Solutions Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Be Seen In A Week! Trauma can have a deep impact on the way an individual views themselves, others, and the world. People who have survived trauma can continue to carry the trauma with them by reliving it in their thoughts and dreams, by avoiding certain people, places, and things and experiencing disturbances in their sleep, mood, and startle response. While all of these symptoms can be overwhelming, you do not have to carry them with you for the rest of your life. There are various treatments that have been scientifically proven to positively impact client's lives and help them not just "get over" their trauma, but to overcome it
I have been trained in EMDR, CPT, CBT, DBT, Solutions Focused Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Be Seen In A Week! Trauma can have a deep impact on the way an individual views themselves, others, and the world. People who have survived trauma can continue to carry the trauma with them by reliving it in their thoughts and dreams, by avoiding certain people, places, and things and experiencing disturbances in their sleep, mood, and startle response. While all of these symptoms can be overwhelming, you do not have to carry them with you for the rest of your life. There are various treatments that have been scientifically proven to positively impact client's lives and help them not just "get over" their trauma, but to overcome it
(317) 342-5940 View (317) 342-5940
Photo of Staci Amico, LMHCA, Counselor
Staci Amico
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46256
I utilize different evidence-based modalities, including Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Life can be quite a journey, filled with moments that can be stressful and challenging. Navigating these challenges alone can often feel isolating and hopeless. You may find it difficult at times to manage the many roles that you play in your life along with finding time to prioritize your own well-being. Along with these life difficulties, it can be challenging to reach out for help and seek therapy. I strive to provide a warm, affirming, and supportive environment. I work collaboratively with you in fostering growth and helping you recognize your own strengths and internal resources.
I utilize different evidence-based modalities, including Emotionally Focused Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
Life can be quite a journey, filled with moments that can be stressful and challenging. Navigating these challenges alone can often feel isolating and hopeless. You may find it difficult at times to manage the many roles that you play in your life along with finding time to prioritize your own well-being. Along with these life difficulties, it can be challenging to reach out for help and seek therapy. I strive to provide a warm, affirming, and supportive environment. I work collaboratively with you in fostering growth and helping you recognize your own strengths and internal resources.
(463) 250-8853 View (463) 250-8853
Photo of Sarah Wicker, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Wicker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience and training in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, which allows me to personalize care to each of my unique clients.
The world we live in today is full of burden, anxiety, worries, and pressure. Do you feel like you’re on the verge of tears, feeling the need to crash at night, or replaying memories and interactions that are causing you anxious thoughts? If so, I would love to help you. I am a mental health therapist and I work with teens and adults with a range of mental health symptoms.
I have experience and training in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, which allows me to personalize care to each of my unique clients.
The world we live in today is full of burden, anxiety, worries, and pressure. Do you feel like you’re on the verge of tears, feeling the need to crash at night, or replaying memories and interactions that are causing you anxious thoughts? If so, I would love to help you. I am a mental health therapist and I work with teens and adults with a range of mental health symptoms.
(317) 754-8550 View (317) 754-8550
Photo of Dina Varano - Dina Varano at The Rooted Heart, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Dina Varano at The Rooted Heart
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
Tapping deep into the roots of my training and experience as a depth psychotherapist, trauma specialist, meditation practitioner and mentor, and transformational coach, we work with a powerful mix of leading edge therapies like EMDR, Depth Hypnosis, somatic-based modalities and energy medicine.
How long have you been hearing the call to a different way of being with yourself and the world? It might just be the quiet whispering of your heart urging you to something more. Or perhaps the whole universe is shouting that something has got to change, you can’t keep living like this. Avoiding our fear of change can keep us stuck. But your capacity to heal is only limited by your beliefs about what is possible. Genuinely transformational work is ultimately a mix of intentional effort and surprising playfulness. It’s about engaging your inner life in new and creative ways in the safe space of a trusted relationship.
Tapping deep into the roots of my training and experience as a depth psychotherapist, trauma specialist, meditation practitioner and mentor, and transformational coach, we work with a powerful mix of leading edge therapies like EMDR, Depth Hypnosis, somatic-based modalities and energy medicine.
How long have you been hearing the call to a different way of being with yourself and the world? It might just be the quiet whispering of your heart urging you to something more. Or perhaps the whole universe is shouting that something has got to change, you can’t keep living like this. Avoiding our fear of change can keep us stuck. But your capacity to heal is only limited by your beliefs about what is possible. Genuinely transformational work is ultimately a mix of intentional effort and surprising playfulness. It’s about engaging your inner life in new and creative ways in the safe space of a trusted relationship.
(317) 451-5320 x590 View (317) 451-5320 x590
Photo of Julie Timke - Indy Counseling Professionals, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Indy Counseling Professionals
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46226
Thank you for considering Indy Counseling Professionals for your counseling needs! We specialize in EMDR, ERP and Neurofeedback. Experiencing symptoms from Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD or Depression? We have over 12 therapists that can help you.
Thank you for considering Indy Counseling Professionals for your counseling needs! We specialize in EMDR, ERP and Neurofeedback. Experiencing symptoms from Anxiety, PTSD, OCD, ADHD or Depression? We have over 12 therapists that can help you.
(317) 653-4188 View (317) 653-4188
Photo of Lindsay Wiggs, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Lindsay Wiggs
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46226  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trained and practicing EMDR clinician.
It is my passion to provide an open and non-judgemental space to talk about those topics that are often “taboo.” I pride myself on ensuring safe and competent care to all clients that may cross my path. I identify as sex positive, trans-affirming, and kink informed. I enjoy providing individual therapy for folks of all walks of life, but I truly love working with partnerships and couples of all forms. I am polyam/non-monogamy aware, competent, and experienced. I have received training in Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman approach and actively work to adapt it to fit with queer and non-traditional coupleship models.
I am a trained and practicing EMDR clinician.
It is my passion to provide an open and non-judgemental space to talk about those topics that are often “taboo.” I pride myself on ensuring safe and competent care to all clients that may cross my path. I identify as sex positive, trans-affirming, and kink informed. I enjoy providing individual therapy for folks of all walks of life, but I truly love working with partnerships and couples of all forms. I am polyam/non-monogamy aware, competent, and experienced. I have received training in Levels 1 and 2 of the Gottman approach and actively work to adapt it to fit with queer and non-traditional coupleship models.
(317) 768-0770 View (317) 768-0770
Photo of Lindsey N Saltzman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey N Saltzman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46240  (Online Only)
Are you a first responder who's work has made you start hating the job? Are you so irritable that you are isolating from friends and family? Are you a trauma survivor who wants to silence the ghosts? At Equinox Counseling and Consulting, LLC, my ambition is to expand mental health services through direct clinical services, community awareness, and education. I focus heavily on trauma services - including EMDR - and accept new clients on a case-by-case basis so I can provide the best care for the clients I serve.
Are you a first responder who's work has made you start hating the job? Are you so irritable that you are isolating from friends and family? Are you a trauma survivor who wants to silence the ghosts? At Equinox Counseling and Consulting, LLC, my ambition is to expand mental health services through direct clinical services, community awareness, and education. I focus heavily on trauma services - including EMDR - and accept new clients on a case-by-case basis so I can provide the best care for the clients I serve.
(812) 610-8428 View (812) 610-8428
Photo of Jennifer Jester, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Jester
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Indianapolis, IN 46250
I use a variety of treatment tools but many people are interested in using EMDR in their healing process.
Are you struggling with feelings of shame & the belief that you aren't good enough? Do you feel like no one else could possibly understand the experiences you've been through? If so, I could be a good fit for you as a therapist. I've spent my career working with adolescents & adults struggling with depression, anxiety, & trauma. I believe a crucial piece to developing a trusting therapeutic relationship is providing a space free of judgement, full of compassion, & support in identifying your goals for change.
I use a variety of treatment tools but many people are interested in using EMDR in their healing process.
Are you struggling with feelings of shame & the belief that you aren't good enough? Do you feel like no one else could possibly understand the experiences you've been through? If so, I could be a good fit for you as a therapist. I've spent my career working with adolescents & adults struggling with depression, anxiety, & trauma. I believe a crucial piece to developing a trusting therapeutic relationship is providing a space free of judgement, full of compassion, & support in identifying your goals for change.
(317) 489-3433 View (317) 489-3433
Photo of Amber Kinney, LMHC, Counselor
Amber Kinney
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46220
I'm EMDR trained, and my practice is LGBTQ+ affirming.
I specialize in helping anxious adults, therapists, entrepreneurs/executives, & adults with ADHD. I teach coping skills to calm the mind & effectively manage emotions. We'll work to reframe anxious thoughts, manage stress, reduce perfectionism, & improve self-esteem. I also empower folks to work on boundaries, burnout, & self-care. I’ll support you with unlearning people-pleasing behaviors, assertive communication, & healing from difficult relationships. We can also work on skills like organization, time management, habit/routine creation, & reducing procrastination.
I'm EMDR trained, and my practice is LGBTQ+ affirming.
I specialize in helping anxious adults, therapists, entrepreneurs/executives, & adults with ADHD. I teach coping skills to calm the mind & effectively manage emotions. We'll work to reframe anxious thoughts, manage stress, reduce perfectionism, & improve self-esteem. I also empower folks to work on boundaries, burnout, & self-care. I’ll support you with unlearning people-pleasing behaviors, assertive communication, & healing from difficult relationships. We can also work on skills like organization, time management, habit/routine creation, & reducing procrastination.
(812) 227-5300 View (812) 227-5300
Photo of Michael V Smith, MA, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Michael V Smith
Counselor, MA, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46256
The clinical tool I use most often is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Do you feel stuck, confused, and alone? My style/approach is unique in that it focuses on supporting individuals who desire to transform their lives and feel more empowered. I have extensive experience working with anxiety, stress, and trauma. I also support those struggling with grief and loss or life-threatening illnesses. I offer a warm and compassionate approach that encourages deep exploration. Our office also provides psychological testing services to finally resolve issues within yourself that have been difficult to solve.
The clinical tool I use most often is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Do you feel stuck, confused, and alone? My style/approach is unique in that it focuses on supporting individuals who desire to transform their lives and feel more empowered. I have extensive experience working with anxiety, stress, and trauma. I also support those struggling with grief and loss or life-threatening illnesses. I offer a warm and compassionate approach that encourages deep exploration. Our office also provides psychological testing services to finally resolve issues within yourself that have been difficult to solve.
(765) 571-4010 View (765) 571-4010

See more therapy options for Indianapolis

EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.