Therapists in Indiana
![Photo of Renee Devine, MS, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6eed015d-ec3d-4f28-8038-5d73fdaa3215/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use evidence based practices such as: EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, solution focussed, and more.
Do you want to make positive changes in your life? We all want to achieve, but some have difficulty with juggling everything in life. As a mental health counselor and life coach, I will be your accountability partner, who can help you assess your past, gain clarity for your future, assist in making an action plan, and troubleshoot the pitfalls along the way. I will work with you on managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, finances, career development, time management, and more. I am able to meet with you in person at my office, or online. I am trained in EMDR, and other therapies, and find this helps with many of life's issues.
I use evidence based practices such as: EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing, solution focussed, and more.
Do you want to make positive changes in your life? We all want to achieve, but some have difficulty with juggling everything in life. As a mental health counselor and life coach, I will be your accountability partner, who can help you assess your past, gain clarity for your future, assist in making an action plan, and troubleshoot the pitfalls along the way. I will work with you on managing anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, finances, career development, time management, and more. I am able to meet with you in person at my office, or online. I am trained in EMDR, and other therapies, and find this helps with many of life's issues.
![Photo of Teresa Brooks, MA, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/873f90e9-3f4c-4743-a953-4f6874fc2b0d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I primarily work with individuals, marriages, couples, and teens in a variety of areas, including trauma, boundaries, communication, and addictions. I have a passion for walking with wounded people during what often seems like the worst, most broken, and hopeless time of their lives and working toward restoration, reconciliation, forgiveness, and hope. I am also a credentialed EMDR Therapist. I have been married for 36 years and have 6 grown children, 9 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. I love spending time with my family and riding my Harley all over the country.
I primarily work with individuals, marriages, couples, and teens in a variety of areas, including trauma, boundaries, communication, and addictions. I have a passion for walking with wounded people during what often seems like the worst, most broken, and hopeless time of their lives and working toward restoration, reconciliation, forgiveness, and hope. I am also a credentialed EMDR Therapist. I have been married for 36 years and have 6 grown children, 9 grandchildren, and 1 great-grandchild. I love spending time with my family and riding my Harley all over the country.
![Photo of Amy Ferris, LCSW, EMDR, BSP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42386d47-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize EMDR and/or Brainspotting to also process birth trauma and/or general fears and anxiety.
I have over 25 years of clinical experience and specialize in treating women's issues, such as: perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship and career issues. My experience as a childbirth educator has enhanced my ability to treat the needs of perinatal women as they transition into motherhood. This journey is one that is often met with unexpected emotions and I help women identify these feelings so they can resolves issues that may complicate parenthood. I recognize the impact of pregnancy loss as well, and help my clients process through this very unique kind of grief.
I utilize EMDR and/or Brainspotting to also process birth trauma and/or general fears and anxiety.
I have over 25 years of clinical experience and specialize in treating women's issues, such as: perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, generalized anxiety, depression, grief and loss, relationship and career issues. My experience as a childbirth educator has enhanced my ability to treat the needs of perinatal women as they transition into motherhood. This journey is one that is often met with unexpected emotions and I help women identify these feelings so they can resolves issues that may complicate parenthood. I recognize the impact of pregnancy loss as well, and help my clients process through this very unique kind of grief.
![Photo of Bethany Anne Romashov, MSEd, LMHCA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77154076-ec51-471f-9923-48cbc24802d2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy integrating EMDR, which speaks more directly to our brains, with traditional talk therapy.
I work with diverse clients seeking to address any of the following, and more: anxiety and related disorders, depression and other mood disorders, relationships, student concerns (I have worked extensively with college, graduate, and nontraditional students, both American and from many countries of origin), parenting concerns, grief, spiritual and/or identity confusion, obsessions and compulsions, addictions, PTSD, and relational trauma/attachment wounds. I am multiculturally oriented and seek to understand and treat the concerns you bring in the context of you as a whole person and your overlapping life roles and identities.
I enjoy integrating EMDR, which speaks more directly to our brains, with traditional talk therapy.
I work with diverse clients seeking to address any of the following, and more: anxiety and related disorders, depression and other mood disorders, relationships, student concerns (I have worked extensively with college, graduate, and nontraditional students, both American and from many countries of origin), parenting concerns, grief, spiritual and/or identity confusion, obsessions and compulsions, addictions, PTSD, and relational trauma/attachment wounds. I am multiculturally oriented and seek to understand and treat the concerns you bring in the context of you as a whole person and your overlapping life roles and identities.
![Photo of Connor Thomas, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9a2a32ee-5808-4f79-ae1a-d66f0fba4b76/2/320x400.jpeg)
I'm trained in EMDR and certified in ART for trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome to your path to healing! I'm a licensed therapist specializing in trauma, first responders, attachment, core beliefs, anxiety, and depression. With a strong belief in the mind-body connection, I'm here to help you heal through a robust therapeutic journey. Together, we'll identify and transform unhelpful patterns, equipping you with new coping skills to reach your goals. My passion lies in aiding those who crave progress from being stuck, whether it's past traumas, anxious thoughts, or feelings of hopelessness.
I'm trained in EMDR and certified in ART for trauma, anxiety, and depression.
Welcome to your path to healing! I'm a licensed therapist specializing in trauma, first responders, attachment, core beliefs, anxiety, and depression. With a strong belief in the mind-body connection, I'm here to help you heal through a robust therapeutic journey. Together, we'll identify and transform unhelpful patterns, equipping you with new coping skills to reach your goals. My passion lies in aiding those who crave progress from being stuck, whether it's past traumas, anxious thoughts, or feelings of hopelessness.
![Photo of Donna D. Groves, LCSW, EMDR, A R T, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4488253b-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Donna D. Groves
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, A R T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47714
Specializing in trauma-based therapies such as EMDR and ART, as well as CBT, DBT, and others, I am here to guide you through your journey of healing and growth.
Embarking on the journey towards your personal truth can feel daunting. Our ideal clients are individuals dealing with anxiety and depression, feeling overwhelmed and stuck. They desire change but find it challenging to move forward. At our practice, we provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment and a variety of therapeutic approaches. We seek clients who are ready to embrace change and begin their path to self-discovery and authenticity. If you are prepared to take the first step towards your truth, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can explore your goals and develop a plan for your personal growth and healing.
Specializing in trauma-based therapies such as EMDR and ART, as well as CBT, DBT, and others, I am here to guide you through your journey of healing and growth.
Embarking on the journey towards your personal truth can feel daunting. Our ideal clients are individuals dealing with anxiety and depression, feeling overwhelmed and stuck. They desire change but find it challenging to move forward. At our practice, we provide a supportive, non-judgmental environment and a variety of therapeutic approaches. We seek clients who are ready to embrace change and begin their path to self-discovery and authenticity. If you are prepared to take the first step towards your truth, I invite you to reach out. Together, we can explore your goals and develop a plan for your personal growth and healing.
![Photo of Emily Koehler, LMHC, RYT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44263fa3-b0c0-4c53-8fd3-9239e21435db/1/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Liza Bollenbacher, MA, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/167868c8-b55f-41d3-86e8-2baa7e947f4a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I integrate traditional talk therapy techniques through a person-centered framework and use EMDR to address acute and complex trauma.
I am a Board-Certified Art Therapist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to assisting individuals suffering from co-dependency, low self-esteem, anxiety, poor coping skills, and trauma. My approach encompasses psychoeducation, Art Therapy, EMDR, and traditional talk therapy techniques. I utilize an interactive approach in which clients begin to explore healthy coping skills to manage stressors and triggers effectively. In addition, I work to explore improving relationships by empowering the use of boundaries and fostering the changes needed for interdependence.
I integrate traditional talk therapy techniques through a person-centered framework and use EMDR to address acute and complex trauma.
I am a Board-Certified Art Therapist and Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to assisting individuals suffering from co-dependency, low self-esteem, anxiety, poor coping skills, and trauma. My approach encompasses psychoeducation, Art Therapy, EMDR, and traditional talk therapy techniques. I utilize an interactive approach in which clients begin to explore healthy coping skills to manage stressors and triggers effectively. In addition, I work to explore improving relationships by empowering the use of boundaries and fostering the changes needed for interdependence.
![Photo of Tyler Oswald, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/afac7e43-70f3-420d-9083-cced82d946ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
With EMDR, I help clients process and recover from traumatic experiences.
I work to help individuals regain control, connection, and fulfillment in their lives. As an EMDR-trained therapist, my main specialty is working with those who have experienced trauma and are looking for help doing the work of healing. I take the time to understand what your needs are and collaborate with you to help you grow and meet your goals. I want to help you see noticeable changes in your life and remove barriers that are standing in your way. Therapy is your unique time to focus on your own needs where I can help you learn effective tools to cope in life and provide a safe space to experience and alleviate heavy emotions.
With EMDR, I help clients process and recover from traumatic experiences.
I work to help individuals regain control, connection, and fulfillment in their lives. As an EMDR-trained therapist, my main specialty is working with those who have experienced trauma and are looking for help doing the work of healing. I take the time to understand what your needs are and collaborate with you to help you grow and meet your goals. I want to help you see noticeable changes in your life and remove barriers that are standing in your way. Therapy is your unique time to focus on your own needs where I can help you learn effective tools to cope in life and provide a safe space to experience and alleviate heavy emotions.
![Photo of Casey Hippenhammer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ae642659-eeef-4241-8763-52072b2f6148/2/320x400.jpeg)
Casey Hippenhammer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indianapolis, IN 46250 (Online Only)
Welcome! A fundamental part of my practice is the belief that creating a safe place where one can express themself freely and honestly is conducive to healing. I intend to walk alongside you and offer support and guidance to help you gain a sense of peace and control. You may be experiencing depression, anxiety, substance abuse and other problems that are affecting your relationships, career, physical health and friendships. Through listening and applying different therapeutic modalities such as EMDR, I hope to help you find relief and solutions to current pains and past traumas.
Welcome! A fundamental part of my practice is the belief that creating a safe place where one can express themself freely and honestly is conducive to healing. I intend to walk alongside you and offer support and guidance to help you gain a sense of peace and control. You may be experiencing depression, anxiety, substance abuse and other problems that are affecting your relationships, career, physical health and friendships. Through listening and applying different therapeutic modalities such as EMDR, I hope to help you find relief and solutions to current pains and past traumas.
![Photo of Tina Williams, MA, ATR-BC, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/482a6ff1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
There are many reasons that people decide to seek counseling. You may be experiencing a difficult phase of your life and want to address specific problems or concerns. Or you may want to work through deeper issues that have impacted your life for an extended period of time. Counseling can be a significant step toward making positive changes in your life. I would like to assist you with your healing journey. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a Registered Art Therapist. I also am an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) trained clinician.
There are many reasons that people decide to seek counseling. You may be experiencing a difficult phase of your life and want to address specific problems or concerns. Or you may want to work through deeper issues that have impacted your life for an extended period of time. Counseling can be a significant step toward making positive changes in your life. I would like to assist you with your healing journey. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, and a Registered Art Therapist. I also am an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) trained clinician.
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Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47710
I am a believer in possibilities and change. If you are someone who feels now is the time for positive transformation, or just simply feeling in over your head with life's curve balls. I would love to help with introducing the right tools for you for new opportunities and growth. I see adults, teenagers and adolescents as young as 12 years old. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am Certified in EMDR.
I am a believer in possibilities and change. If you are someone who feels now is the time for positive transformation, or just simply feeling in over your head with life's curve balls. I would love to help with introducing the right tools for you for new opportunities and growth. I see adults, teenagers and adolescents as young as 12 years old. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am Certified in EMDR.
![Photo of Suzanne R Newman, MS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ea96ff8-baad-4e19-83ba-386e7420bb34/1/320x400.png)
I am trained in EMDR which is often used in treating PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I provide in-person and virtual appointments to youth, 12 and up, and adults. I provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy. Life can bring about unexpected challenges that can leave you feeling lost, confused, and full of emotions that can feel unbearable in the moment. It takes courage to reach out for help and process some of your deepest thoughts, feelings, and those unexpected moments that can create stress. Together we can develop a treatment plan with set goals to help you to achieve the changes you want in yourself.
I am trained in EMDR which is often used in treating PTSD, anxiety, or depression.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. I provide in-person and virtual appointments to youth, 12 and up, and adults. I provide individual, couples, family, and group therapy. Life can bring about unexpected challenges that can leave you feeling lost, confused, and full of emotions that can feel unbearable in the moment. It takes courage to reach out for help and process some of your deepest thoughts, feelings, and those unexpected moments that can create stress. Together we can develop a treatment plan with set goals to help you to achieve the changes you want in yourself.
![Photo of Dianna Stringham, LMHA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/df96b824-526d-4bd7-8ac8-e9d5906b0915/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and not only utilize it to help with past trauma, but find it very beneficial when working with anxiety, school concerns, self esteem and depression.
If you have made it this far, you are wanting to find some answers. Together, we can come up with a plan to help you come up with a solution. Do you need guidance on guidance on parenting, setting appropriate boundaries, and dealing with behaviors from your children that seem out of control. Maybe your child needs help with emotional regulation and behavior modification or your teen is dealing with anxiety or depression symptoms. You may need help yourself dealing with these challenges or have experienced childhood trauma or struggle with the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and not only utilize it to help with past trauma, but find it very beneficial when working with anxiety, school concerns, self esteem and depression.
If you have made it this far, you are wanting to find some answers. Together, we can come up with a plan to help you come up with a solution. Do you need guidance on guidance on parenting, setting appropriate boundaries, and dealing with behaviors from your children that seem out of control. Maybe your child needs help with emotional regulation and behavior modification or your teen is dealing with anxiety or depression symptoms. You may need help yourself dealing with these challenges or have experienced childhood trauma or struggle with the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
![Photo of Andrea Lantz - Tree of Life Counseling, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Owner, ACP F/I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db86b42f-318d-4947-8377-a9bdd7661bb5/2/320x400.png)
Tree of Life Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Owner, ACP F/I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Evansville, IN 47725
Waitlist for new clients
We have providers trained and certified in EMDR, Mindful Based Cognitive Therapy and Stress Reduction, Solution Focused, Internal Family Systems, DBT, and more including intuitive somatic work.
You are worthy of peace and joy! If you are tired of feeling stuck, distracted, or minimizing yourself and thinking of all the things you should be doing or unsure where to start....stop "should-ing" on yourself! Depression, grief, anger and anxiety are normal human emotions. However, with most things in life, it’s all about balance and moderation. Sometimes things from the past, fears of the future's uncertainty or the way we are wired creates patterns that interfere with living a more meaningful, joyful, and peaceful life- one that includes connecting with the healing powers already within you!
We have providers trained and certified in EMDR, Mindful Based Cognitive Therapy and Stress Reduction, Solution Focused, Internal Family Systems, DBT, and more including intuitive somatic work.
You are worthy of peace and joy! If you are tired of feeling stuck, distracted, or minimizing yourself and thinking of all the things you should be doing or unsure where to start....stop "should-ing" on yourself! Depression, grief, anger and anxiety are normal human emotions. However, with most things in life, it’s all about balance and moderation. Sometimes things from the past, fears of the future's uncertainty or the way we are wired creates patterns that interfere with living a more meaningful, joyful, and peaceful life- one that includes connecting with the healing powers already within you!
![Photo of Arielle Tingle - Collaborative Care LLC, MS, LMHC, LCSW, LMFT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/7b540f69-2ca4-45cb-b721-4bb8605f0262/3/320x400.jpeg)
Collaborative Care LLC
Counselor, MS, LMHC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette, IN 47901
We are accepting new clients for Family and Couples Counseling, Addictions Treatment, and Individual Telehealth Therapy! Therapy provides a safe space to develop the underlying factor for true happiness - meaningful human connection. The therapeutic experience at Collaborative Care is tailored to your individual needs using various therapeutic techniques such as; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and others to help you develop your best life possible.
We are accepting new clients for Family and Couples Counseling, Addictions Treatment, and Individual Telehealth Therapy! Therapy provides a safe space to develop the underlying factor for true happiness - meaningful human connection. The therapeutic experience at Collaborative Care is tailored to your individual needs using various therapeutic techniques such as; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Trauma Focused – Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and others to help you develop your best life possible.
![Photo of Erica DeHart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e0840f8b-5728-4bca-b56a-09ff44b673f6/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have 17 years of experience as a clinical Social Worker and I specialize in key areas of cognitive behavioral therapy for mood, EMDR, cognitive processing therapy for PTSD/trauma recovery work, substance abuse/codependency, Internal Family Systems, LGBTQIA, and consensual non-monogamy. I incorporate mindfulness, meditation, movement, nutrition, neuroplasticity, and art therapy into my practice as well. In addition to being a military veteran, I also spent 9+ years working with a VA hospital so I have a hefty amount of experience in working with veterans issues as well.
I have 17 years of experience as a clinical Social Worker and I specialize in key areas of cognitive behavioral therapy for mood, EMDR, cognitive processing therapy for PTSD/trauma recovery work, substance abuse/codependency, Internal Family Systems, LGBTQIA, and consensual non-monogamy. I incorporate mindfulness, meditation, movement, nutrition, neuroplasticity, and art therapy into my practice as well. In addition to being a military veteran, I also spent 9+ years working with a VA hospital so I have a hefty amount of experience in working with veterans issues as well.
![Photo of Kellen Alexandra Fox, MS, EdS, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4eec70e1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am EMDR-trained, and can provide this form of treatment as needed.
I think one of the main issues people struggle with today is cultivating resiliency, and therefore my focus in therapy has always been toward empowerment and strengthening clients from a multi-systems approach. I believe positive mental health and a strong self-care routine are a valuable asset to individual growth, and that therapy isn't meant to just be a reactive form of treatment, but one that is a regular part of all our routines.
I am EMDR-trained, and can provide this form of treatment as needed.
I think one of the main issues people struggle with today is cultivating resiliency, and therefore my focus in therapy has always been toward empowerment and strengthening clients from a multi-systems approach. I believe positive mental health and a strong self-care routine are a valuable asset to individual growth, and that therapy isn't meant to just be a reactive form of treatment, but one that is a regular part of all our routines.
![Photo of Monica Erk, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c40902e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have been trained in EMDR, DBT, and Brainspotting to help people move past trauma and tough events in their life.
We all go through seasons in our lives where it would be beneficial to have someone come along side and help us get out of our own muck. I work with a variety of people but particularly like helping people get past traumatic events or to have better relationships with others.
I have been trained in EMDR, DBT, and Brainspotting to help people move past trauma and tough events in their life.
We all go through seasons in our lives where it would be beneficial to have someone come along side and help us get out of our own muck. I work with a variety of people but particularly like helping people get past traumatic events or to have better relationships with others.
![Photo of Lauren M Rodenbeck, MEd, LMFT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9bbf994e-86b6-465a-89b9-1eaf6b8124e5/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is EMDR trained treating individuals, couples, and families. Through a family systems perspective, I believe families are unique and complex, consisting of dynamics and constructs specific to their overall functionality. In counseling I work to set a specialized and unique treatment plan catered to the needs of each individual/family to achieve their goals. Treatment is skills-based, which means clients and families learn helpful techniques and skills in therapy to apply to their daily lives to become a healthier version of themselves and reach their full potential.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who is EMDR trained treating individuals, couples, and families. Through a family systems perspective, I believe families are unique and complex, consisting of dynamics and constructs specific to their overall functionality. In counseling I work to set a specialized and unique treatment plan catered to the needs of each individual/family to achieve their goals. Treatment is skills-based, which means clients and families learn helpful techniques and skills in therapy to apply to their daily lives to become a healthier version of themselves and reach their full potential.
See more therapy options for Indiana
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.