EMDR Therapists in Kansas City, KS

Photo of Chrissie Diehl, LSCSW, LCSW
Chrissie Diehl
LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, KS 66109
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is a different and fun way to reach children, adolescents, and young adults without the stigma of talk therapy. EAP is an alternative therapeutic approach that addresses mental health concerns and everyday life challenges by teaming up with caring therapists and horses. This type of therapy often reflects clients' verbal and nonverbal strengths and incongruencies while enhancing personal growth and development. This experiential, holistic approach works well with solution-focused therapy (SFT) and other evidence-based treatment modalities, e.g., ACT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) is a different and fun way to reach children, adolescents, and young adults without the stigma of talk therapy. EAP is an alternative therapeutic approach that addresses mental health concerns and everyday life challenges by teaming up with caring therapists and horses. This type of therapy often reflects clients' verbal and nonverbal strengths and incongruencies while enhancing personal growth and development. This experiential, holistic approach works well with solution-focused therapy (SFT) and other evidence-based treatment modalities, e.g., ACT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
(913) 728-5602 View (913) 728-5602
Photo of Donna Catherine Constantineau, LCPC
Donna Catherine Constantineau
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, KS 66102
I am a licensed clinical therapist in the state of Kansas and have twenty years of work experience with individuals and couples whose concerns may include anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship problems. Eye Movement Desensization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a very useful modality to use with these concerns. During this therapy, rhythmic eye movements are combined with focus on building emotional safety and the processing of distressing memories and symptoms.. The client is in full control of this therapeutic inner work while the therapist acts as the facilitator.
I am a licensed clinical therapist in the state of Kansas and have twenty years of work experience with individuals and couples whose concerns may include anxiety, depression, trauma, or relationship problems. Eye Movement Desensization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a very useful modality to use with these concerns. During this therapy, rhythmic eye movements are combined with focus on building emotional safety and the processing of distressing memories and symptoms.. The client is in full control of this therapeutic inner work while the therapist acts as the facilitator.
(913) 534-8151 View (913) 534-8151
Jacqueline Hogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66109
I am EMDR trained, a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) with extensive experience supporting survivors of trauma.
If you are looking for acceptance, understanding, and an authentic, compassionate perspective in therapy you have found it. I am passionate, flexible, curious, non-judgmental and open in my work. I have found this helps me connect with the distressed, anxious, uncertain and yes "HOPEFUL" person that has taken the great leap of faith in seeking help for their child or for self.
I am EMDR trained, a Registered Play Therapist (RPT) with extensive experience supporting survivors of trauma.
If you are looking for acceptance, understanding, and an authentic, compassionate perspective in therapy you have found it. I am passionate, flexible, curious, non-judgmental and open in my work. I have found this helps me connect with the distressed, anxious, uncertain and yes "HOPEFUL" person that has taken the great leap of faith in seeking help for their child or for self.
(913) 225-7402 View (913) 225-7402
Photo of Teresa Reichart-Vernon - Lifesource Counseling, LSCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Reichart-Vernon - Lifesource Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66109
Worry less, get restful sleep, handle stress easier & regain control over your life! Let our experienced clinicians help you & your family achieve an improved quality of well-being. Teresa Reichart-Vernon, MSW, LSCSW, LCSW ; Jacqueline Hogan, MSW,LSCSW, RPT/Registered Play Therapist & EMDR trained; Angela Dunn, MSW, LSCSW; Wanda Easterwood, MA,LPC & Justin Bastin, LCMFT, LMAC; You may text Teresa at 913-327-0749 as well as email.
Worry less, get restful sleep, handle stress easier & regain control over your life! Let our experienced clinicians help you & your family achieve an improved quality of well-being. Teresa Reichart-Vernon, MSW, LSCSW, LCSW ; Jacqueline Hogan, MSW,LSCSW, RPT/Registered Play Therapist & EMDR trained; Angela Dunn, MSW, LSCSW; Wanda Easterwood, MA,LPC & Justin Bastin, LCMFT, LMAC; You may text Teresa at 913-327-0749 as well as email.
(913) 735-8852 View (913) 735-8852
Photo of Alfredo Munoz - Bilingual Counseling Services, EdS, LCPC, EMDRIA, Trainer, Consult, Counselor
Bilingual Counseling Services
Counselor, EdS, LCPC, EMDRIA, Trainer, Consult
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66102
Also, I am a Trauma Recovery/ HAP and EMDR institute Facilitator and HAP EMDR basic Trainer.
I believe everyone alive deserves to have the best possible life. All of us suffer from the trial and tribulations of life, some of which we bring on ourselves, and some are consequences of others behaviors. All of us learn important lessons from life, and I believe that psychotherapy helps people to gain significant insight and awareness on the most important dimensions of their mental functioning. Many of us suffer alone in the depths of loneliness and despair. It is my mission to help and guide others with knowledge, and encouragement to confront their situations, and problems. I
Also, I am a Trauma Recovery/ HAP and EMDR institute Facilitator and HAP EMDR basic Trainer.
I believe everyone alive deserves to have the best possible life. All of us suffer from the trial and tribulations of life, some of which we bring on ourselves, and some are consequences of others behaviors. All of us learn important lessons from life, and I believe that psychotherapy helps people to gain significant insight and awareness on the most important dimensions of their mental functioning. Many of us suffer alone in the depths of loneliness and despair. It is my mission to help and guide others with knowledge, and encouragement to confront their situations, and problems. I
(913) 752-9679 View (913) 752-9679
Photo of Cindy Reynolds -  A Safe Place Therapy, online in KS and MO, Marriage & Family Therapist
A Safe Place Therapy, online in KS and MO
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Kansas City, KS 66105  (Online Only)
Using EMDR, we’ll identify the root cause of your complex emotions and harness the brain’s natural power to heal these wounds at the source.
Hi, I'm Cindy Reynolds, LCMFT. I will provide a compassionate, safe environment for women seeking help at whatever point they might be in life, to find healing and growth in their journey toward a more meaningful life. If you have had trauma, past or present, that is causing you difficulties in daily life and relationships, or your are having symptoms such as, panic attacks or nightmares, I can help you get back to the life that you are missing right now. You don't have to live in the trauma fog and dysfunction. There is a way out.
Using EMDR, we’ll identify the root cause of your complex emotions and harness the brain’s natural power to heal these wounds at the source.
Hi, I'm Cindy Reynolds, LCMFT. I will provide a compassionate, safe environment for women seeking help at whatever point they might be in life, to find healing and growth in their journey toward a more meaningful life. If you have had trauma, past or present, that is causing you difficulties in daily life and relationships, or your are having symptoms such as, panic attacks or nightmares, I can help you get back to the life that you are missing right now. You don't have to live in the trauma fog and dysfunction. There is a way out.
(316) 745-2958 View (316) 745-2958
Photo of Nedra Cannon - Harmony in Hues Wellness Center, LMSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harmony in Hues Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66101
We have specialization in EMDR, DBT, and TF-CBT.
Harmony in Hues Wellness Center is a dedicated practice, passionate about helping others navigate challenges in life. Collectively, we have over 20 years in the mental health field with both children, adolescents, and adults. Thinking about seeking mental health counseling? First you need to find a counselor you can trust and someone you feel "gets you". Being truthful and vulnerable are keys to good work. You need to feel free to address your concerns, grief, shame, and hurt ... We go the extra mile to help support positive change. It takes courage to face and embrace change.
We have specialization in EMDR, DBT, and TF-CBT.
Harmony in Hues Wellness Center is a dedicated practice, passionate about helping others navigate challenges in life. Collectively, we have over 20 years in the mental health field with both children, adolescents, and adults. Thinking about seeking mental health counseling? First you need to find a counselor you can trust and someone you feel "gets you". Being truthful and vulnerable are keys to good work. You need to feel free to address your concerns, grief, shame, and hurt ... We go the extra mile to help support positive change. It takes courage to face and embrace change.
(517) 589-4169 View (517) 589-4169
Photo of Fiana L Martin - Anaif Counseling and Assessment Services LLC, LSCSW, LMAC, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anaif Counseling and Assessment Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LMAC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66106  (Online Only)
Services range from short term, solution focused therapy to intensive long-term psychotherapy and the use of play therapy techniques & EMDR.
I am a Clinical Social Worker who believes in helping individuals, families and groups achieve their greatest potential, through self empowerment, coping skills and self determination.
Services range from short term, solution focused therapy to intensive long-term psychotherapy and the use of play therapy techniques & EMDR.
I am a Clinical Social Worker who believes in helping individuals, families and groups achieve their greatest potential, through self empowerment, coping skills and self determination.
(785) 214-4157 View (785) 214-4157
Photo of Daylin Rodriguez Cesar, MA, LPC, LCPC, PhDc, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daylin Rodriguez Cesar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, PhDc
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66102  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR.
He sido una sicoterapeuta bilingue por 12 años enfocada en tratar trauma y evaluaciones sicológicas para emigración. Les proveo un ambiente confidencial y muy cómodo a mis participantes. Es un gran privilegio guiarlos en su andar de sanidad y paz. Me especializo en sicología infantil, EMDR, y hipnosis clínica. Tengo vasta experiencia ayudando a parejas, procesos de separación, trauma, niñas/niños, y a la comunidad LGBTQ+. I am a caring bilingual counselor with experience in working with people of races and genders. My mission is to be your companion on this therapeutic journey in a comfortable and confidential environment.
I am trained in EMDR.
He sido una sicoterapeuta bilingue por 12 años enfocada en tratar trauma y evaluaciones sicológicas para emigración. Les proveo un ambiente confidencial y muy cómodo a mis participantes. Es un gran privilegio guiarlos en su andar de sanidad y paz. Me especializo en sicología infantil, EMDR, y hipnosis clínica. Tengo vasta experiencia ayudando a parejas, procesos de separación, trauma, niñas/niños, y a la comunidad LGBTQ+. I am a caring bilingual counselor with experience in working with people of races and genders. My mission is to be your companion on this therapeutic journey in a comfortable and confidential environment.
(913) 884-1812 View (913) 884-1812
Photo of Karanita B Boling, LCSW-S, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karanita B Boling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LSCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66106
I'm a Compassionate, Caring, Trauma Informed, Holistic and Client Centered Clinician. Neurodivergent Welcoming! I believe being "Mentally Healthy" means having the energy to live life to the fullest, being content and having serenity to face life's everyday challenges. No one chooses to feel tired, fearful, anxious, sad or depressed. I am certified in Motivational Interviewing, EMDR Basic & advanced skills and training in CBT, DBT, and ACT to help you find the goals to your best life. I accept clients 8yrs old through Geriatric (99+). I have active duty Military and First Responder experience.
I'm a Compassionate, Caring, Trauma Informed, Holistic and Client Centered Clinician. Neurodivergent Welcoming! I believe being "Mentally Healthy" means having the energy to live life to the fullest, being content and having serenity to face life's everyday challenges. No one chooses to feel tired, fearful, anxious, sad or depressed. I am certified in Motivational Interviewing, EMDR Basic & advanced skills and training in CBT, DBT, and ACT to help you find the goals to your best life. I accept clients 8yrs old through Geriatric (99+). I have active duty Military and First Responder experience.
(816) 494-2595 View (816) 494-2595
Photo of Dr. Katelyn Coburn, PhD, LIMHP, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Katelyn Coburn
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LIMHP, LCMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66160
Waitlist for new clients
I'm nervous system informed and use IFS & EMDR.
We all need to be seen and understood, and it’s my goal to make therapy a space where that happens. I approach therapy from a place of getting that it's important to make sense of your experiences, know & feel that you are valid, & have a way to move forward feeling grounded in your authentic truth. I often work with people who have experienced trauma in relationships, a lack of emotional support in childhood, religious trauma, and marginalization. I can help with if you've been struggling to make changes you want in your life and relationships, have been overwhelmed by emotions, or don't ever know what you're even feeling.
I'm nervous system informed and use IFS & EMDR.
We all need to be seen and understood, and it’s my goal to make therapy a space where that happens. I approach therapy from a place of getting that it's important to make sense of your experiences, know & feel that you are valid, & have a way to move forward feeling grounded in your authentic truth. I often work with people who have experienced trauma in relationships, a lack of emotional support in childhood, religious trauma, and marginalization. I can help with if you've been struggling to make changes you want in your life and relationships, have been overwhelmed by emotions, or don't ever know what you're even feeling.
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Photo of Sherry J Descoteaux, LSCSW, LMAC, FFT, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherry J Descoteaux
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW, LMAC, FFT, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66102  (Online Only)
I have been trained and certified to provide Functional Family Therapy, EMDR.
My philosophy in working with individual, couples and families is to provide a safe environment that enable individuals feel free to express their emotions, feelings and work at solutions, conflicts stress and life changes. I work from a strengths perspective and family systems theory. I have experience with ages 10 to 90. Some of my areas of expertise are Grief and Loss, Sexual Addictions, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and PTSD, Sexual, Emotional and Physical abuse. Drug and Alcohol Assessments, SASSI, ASI, KCPC, Individual and Group Therapy for Addictions.
I have been trained and certified to provide Functional Family Therapy, EMDR.
My philosophy in working with individual, couples and families is to provide a safe environment that enable individuals feel free to express their emotions, feelings and work at solutions, conflicts stress and life changes. I work from a strengths perspective and family systems theory. I have experience with ages 10 to 90. Some of my areas of expertise are Grief and Loss, Sexual Addictions, Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, and PTSD, Sexual, Emotional and Physical abuse. Drug and Alcohol Assessments, SASSI, ASI, KCPC, Individual and Group Therapy for Addictions.
(602) 550-7246 View (602) 550-7246
Photo of Kate Barts, LCPC, LPC, CIT
Kate Barts
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, CIT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66102
I am a certified EMDR therapist/consultant in training.
Hello there! Life has felt overwhelming for many of us these past few years, and I'm so happy you are here looking for some extra support. Therapy can provide a nonjudgmental and objective space to help process the stressors of life. You may be here because you are dealing with things like emotional detachment, insomnia, nightmares, avoidance, irritability, depression, and intrusive thoughts (which can all be reactions to painful life events). Our brains can and do heal just like other parts of our bodies, and that healing can have big impacts on not only ourselves but those we love.
I am a certified EMDR therapist/consultant in training.
Hello there! Life has felt overwhelming for many of us these past few years, and I'm so happy you are here looking for some extra support. Therapy can provide a nonjudgmental and objective space to help process the stressors of life. You may be here because you are dealing with things like emotional detachment, insomnia, nightmares, avoidance, irritability, depression, and intrusive thoughts (which can all be reactions to painful life events). Our brains can and do heal just like other parts of our bodies, and that healing can have big impacts on not only ourselves but those we love.
(913) 347-5035 View (913) 347-5035
Photo of Linda Simmons, Psy D, Psychologist
Linda Simmons
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
Kansas City, KS 66103  (Online Only)
Simmons has continued her training and received certification in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Dr. Linda Simmons is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) with over 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults achieve healing and greater life fulfillment. Dr. Simmons specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, pain management, relationship issues, faith issues, and major life transitions. She sees psychotherapy as a collaborative process with her clients, providing education and expert guidance, and encouraging clients to reach their goals. Psychotherapy is not a one-size-fits-all process and she will change her approach per client's needs.
Simmons has continued her training and received certification in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
Dr. Linda Simmons is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist (LCP) with over 30 years of experience in the mental health field. She is passionate about helping adults achieve healing and greater life fulfillment. Dr. Simmons specializes in depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, pain management, relationship issues, faith issues, and major life transitions. She sees psychotherapy as a collaborative process with her clients, providing education and expert guidance, and encouraging clients to reach their goals. Psychotherapy is not a one-size-fits-all process and she will change her approach per client's needs.
(816) 320-6166 View (816) 320-6166
Photo of Dr. Leigh Pitre, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, CH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Leigh Pitre
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, NCC, CH
Verified Verified
Kansas City, KS 66102
I use traditional approaches coupled with experiential techniques, including Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals and couples, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and other somatic interventions.
I would like to start off by saying it takes courage to take the first step in your healing journey! I specialize in treating trauma, attachment-based issues, and couples. I take a whole-body approach that helps create and maintain lasting change. My ultimate goal for therapy with my clients is to help create corrective emotional experiences so that healing can occur. Whether that’s on an individual basis, or with a couple and the relational cycle. I truly believe it is an honor to walk alongside my clients throughout the healing process!
I use traditional approaches coupled with experiential techniques, including Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals and couples, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, and other somatic interventions.
I would like to start off by saying it takes courage to take the first step in your healing journey! I specialize in treating trauma, attachment-based issues, and couples. I take a whole-body approach that helps create and maintain lasting change. My ultimate goal for therapy with my clients is to help create corrective emotional experiences so that healing can occur. Whether that’s on an individual basis, or with a couple and the relational cycle. I truly believe it is an honor to walk alongside my clients throughout the healing process!
(901) 617-4260 View (901) 617-4260
Photo of Meredith Wachter, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meredith Wachter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, KS 66101  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained and have experience with various other intervention protocols.
My primary focus is on treating trauma of all types.
I am EMDR trained and have experience with various other intervention protocols.
My primary focus is on treating trauma of all types.
(620) 551-1301 View (620) 551-1301
Photo of Delissa Cooper, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Delissa Cooper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, KS 66102  (Online Only)
I am trained in CBT, SFBT, EMDR and IFS, which are therapy modalities used to assist you with the healing process.
I’m here to help you create the life you have been striving for! I believe in the empowerment and recovery of all individuals. I understand the vulnerability it takes to reach out for help and I commend you for taking that step today. I utilize a positive therapeutic approach to meet my clients where they are, build rapport and help you identify goals to improve your quality of life. Whether you are experiencing increased feelings of sadness, worry, stress with work, relationships or past trauma. I am here for you and would like to support you in Feeling Better!
I am trained in CBT, SFBT, EMDR and IFS, which are therapy modalities used to assist you with the healing process.
I’m here to help you create the life you have been striving for! I believe in the empowerment and recovery of all individuals. I understand the vulnerability it takes to reach out for help and I commend you for taking that step today. I utilize a positive therapeutic approach to meet my clients where they are, build rapport and help you identify goals to improve your quality of life. Whether you are experiencing increased feelings of sadness, worry, stress with work, relationships or past trauma. I am here for you and would like to support you in Feeling Better!
(913) 380-4690 View (913) 380-4690
Photo of Rachel Dettleff-Schmidt, LCSW, CRADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Dettleff-Schmidt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, KS 66106  (Online Only)
I use a variety of approaches, including EMDR and CBT, to explore what got you to this point.
Our past experiences may shape us, but they don't have to define our lives. Sometimes painful memories, emotions, or even our own behavior can feel like a heavy weight we've been carrying for a long time. This weight can hold us back and can make life feel overwhelming. It can lead to problems in our relationships, unwanted thoughts and behaviors, or disconnection from ourselves and the things in life that matter most. It can feel impossible at times to free ourselves of this burden alone. I'm here to offer hope; hope that this weight can be lifted.
I use a variety of approaches, including EMDR and CBT, to explore what got you to this point.
Our past experiences may shape us, but they don't have to define our lives. Sometimes painful memories, emotions, or even our own behavior can feel like a heavy weight we've been carrying for a long time. This weight can hold us back and can make life feel overwhelming. It can lead to problems in our relationships, unwanted thoughts and behaviors, or disconnection from ourselves and the things in life that matter most. It can feel impossible at times to free ourselves of this burden alone. I'm here to offer hope; hope that this weight can be lifted.
(636) 789-1510 View (636) 789-1510
Photo of Garth Fischer, LCPC, NCC, MA
Garth Fischer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Kansas City, KS 66109
Waitlist for new clients
Garth specializes in marriage, couples and family therapy and is passionate about the family unit and the various relationships within it. He has extensive experience working with children and young adults as well as with their parents to strengthen relationships and accomplish their goals. Garth's counseling approach is rooted in person centered and attachment theories. His desire is to develop a strong therapeutic relationship where people feel understood, valued and encouraged to be who they desire to be.
Garth specializes in marriage, couples and family therapy and is passionate about the family unit and the various relationships within it. He has extensive experience working with children and young adults as well as with their parents to strengthen relationships and accomplish their goals. Garth's counseling approach is rooted in person centered and attachment theories. His desire is to develop a strong therapeutic relationship where people feel understood, valued and encouraged to be who they desire to be.
(913) 354-7772 View (913) 354-7772
Photo of Crystal Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, KS 66102  (Online Only)
Are disruptive and unwanted thoughts invading your mind? Does guilt and shame keep you isolated and lonely? Are you constantly and easily agitated or irritable without understanding why? Is hostility and self-sabotage ruining your relationships? Do you feel the incessant need to brace and protect yourself against things and people posing a threat to you in some way? I offer services that address all sorts of issues, distresses and disorders, focusing on trauma processing and recovery as a treatment approach, targeting precipitating events, memories, and triggers impacting our thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
Are disruptive and unwanted thoughts invading your mind? Does guilt and shame keep you isolated and lonely? Are you constantly and easily agitated or irritable without understanding why? Is hostility and self-sabotage ruining your relationships? Do you feel the incessant need to brace and protect yourself against things and people posing a threat to you in some way? I offer services that address all sorts of issues, distresses and disorders, focusing on trauma processing and recovery as a treatment approach, targeting precipitating events, memories, and triggers impacting our thoughts, feelings and behaviors.
(816) 323-8652 View (816) 323-8652
1

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.