EMDR Therapists in Boston, MA

Photo of Liza Detenber, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liza Detenber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02108  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use talk therapy, EMDR, & body-based practices to support you.
In a busy, overwhelming, too-much world we all need to find ways to care for ourselves. Reaching out for therapy can be a way to carve out some space to nourish and connect to yourself. Maybe you're here because you feel overwhelmed and anxious. You know you have deep wisdom inside but the overwhelm is making it hard to access it. Perhaps there is self-judgment for feeling “too sensitive”. You’re doing big things yet you still feel small. You long to feel calm, centered, and connected. My grounded, intuitive, and collaborative approach can help!
I use talk therapy, EMDR, & body-based practices to support you.
In a busy, overwhelming, too-much world we all need to find ways to care for ourselves. Reaching out for therapy can be a way to carve out some space to nourish and connect to yourself. Maybe you're here because you feel overwhelmed and anxious. You know you have deep wisdom inside but the overwhelm is making it hard to access it. Perhaps there is self-judgment for feeling “too sensitive”. You’re doing big things yet you still feel small. You long to feel calm, centered, and connected. My grounded, intuitive, and collaborative approach can help!
View
Photo of Lauren Blackwood, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Blackwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR treatment.
I specialize in working with anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Tired of worrying and hyper-fixating on things you could have done better? Navigating emotional challenges can be exhausting, with anxiety manifesting in over thinking, perfectionism, and procrastination. You are not alone. Therapy is a chance to make meaningful changes in your life and heal reoccurring patterns standing in your way. I believe growth happens when you have a warm and compassionate therapist to help work through the hard stuff. I get that, and I place a premium on holding that safe space for you.
I offer Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR treatment.
I specialize in working with anxiety, trauma, relationship challenges, and life transitions. Tired of worrying and hyper-fixating on things you could have done better? Navigating emotional challenges can be exhausting, with anxiety manifesting in over thinking, perfectionism, and procrastination. You are not alone. Therapy is a chance to make meaningful changes in your life and heal reoccurring patterns standing in your way. I believe growth happens when you have a warm and compassionate therapist to help work through the hard stuff. I get that, and I place a premium on holding that safe space for you.
(781) 546-9302 View (781) 546-9302
Photo of Chini Chan, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Chini Chan
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I am EMDR certified therapist, specialized in CBT and DBT skill training, advanced and IFS-informed EMDR therapies. I apply person-centered, skill-building approaches and relationship-centered communication techniques in individual, couples and family therapies. The areas of focus include but not limited to complex PTSD, emotion regulation, nourish inner child, heal attachment wounds, enhance resilience, strengthen healthy self-esteem and build meaningful relationship.
I am EMDR certified therapist, specialized in CBT and DBT skill training, advanced and IFS-informed EMDR therapies. I apply person-centered, skill-building approaches and relationship-centered communication techniques in individual, couples and family therapies. The areas of focus include but not limited to complex PTSD, emotion regulation, nourish inner child, heal attachment wounds, enhance resilience, strengthen healthy self-esteem and build meaningful relationship.
(617) 401-8493 View (617) 401-8493
Photo of Alyssa Monahan, LMHC, Counselor
Alyssa Monahan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02114  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained, working towards certification.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Massachusetts. I enjoy supporting clients through transitional times in their lives or processing trauma, through EMDR modality and solution-focused approach. I believe in your true potential and want to help you discover it, too. My overall goal is to make you and/or your child feel safe, comfortable, and supported.
I am EMDR trained, working towards certification.
Hi! I'm a Licensed Mental Health Counselor based in Massachusetts. I enjoy supporting clients through transitional times in their lives or processing trauma, through EMDR modality and solution-focused approach. I believe in your true potential and want to help you discover it, too. My overall goal is to make you and/or your child feel safe, comfortable, and supported.
(617) 917-9448 View (617) 917-9448
Photo of Drew Shegda, LMHC, Counselor
Drew Shegda
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It's important to process mental barriers that are getting in the way of happiness (typically via EMDR or IFS), which then greatly facilitates taking action towards goals.
It's an unfortunate reality, but many people never reach their full potential in life; there always seems to be one or more things holding them back. This can be due to past traumatic experiences, a difficult childhood, their own thoughts, etc... the list is endless! As a result, anxiety and depression can set in.
It's important to process mental barriers that are getting in the way of happiness (typically via EMDR or IFS), which then greatly facilitates taking action towards goals.
It's an unfortunate reality, but many people never reach their full potential in life; there always seems to be one or more things holding them back. This can be due to past traumatic experiences, a difficult childhood, their own thoughts, etc... the list is endless! As a result, anxiety and depression can set in.
(857) 367-4106 View (857) 367-4106
Photo of Courtney Aldrich, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Aldrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02210  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like things might never get better? Do you struggle to feel proud of yourself, comfortable with your body, or joyful? I'm here to tell you that your negative beliefs about yourself can change, your intense emotions can diminish, and the past does define your present or future. I'm a trauma therapist specializing in EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I enjoy working with adults who have survived recent and childhood trauma. My goal is to help you gain clarity, manage your symptoms, and develop a more positive relationship with yourself and all the younger versions of you.
Do you ever feel like things might never get better? Do you struggle to feel proud of yourself, comfortable with your body, or joyful? I'm here to tell you that your negative beliefs about yourself can change, your intense emotions can diminish, and the past does define your present or future. I'm a trauma therapist specializing in EMDR, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy. I enjoy working with adults who have survived recent and childhood trauma. My goal is to help you gain clarity, manage your symptoms, and develop a more positive relationship with yourself and all the younger versions of you.
(978) 928-6635 View (978) 928-6635
Photo of Carol Goldman, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Goldman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02114
Blending years of experience with new advances in experiential psychotherapies, I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT Certified), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Eye Movement and Reprocessing (EMDR Consultant), 3rd wave Cognitive Behavior Therapies (CBT), and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
Caring for couples and individuals has been my privilege and passion for over thirty years. I provide goal directed short-term and long-tern therapy in a warm, active, and collaborative style to help people solve problems and reach their potential. Treatments are tailored to each client's individual circumstances. Success in therapy reduces distress and creates new possibilities for living with greater ease, purpose, and joy. The skills acquired in therapy enable us to face future challenges with courage and confidence.
Blending years of experience with new advances in experiential psychotherapies, I specialize in Emotionally Focused Therapy for Couples (EFT Certified), Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Eye Movement and Reprocessing (EMDR Consultant), 3rd wave Cognitive Behavior Therapies (CBT), and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
Caring for couples and individuals has been my privilege and passion for over thirty years. I provide goal directed short-term and long-tern therapy in a warm, active, and collaborative style to help people solve problems and reach their potential. Treatments are tailored to each client's individual circumstances. Success in therapy reduces distress and creates new possibilities for living with greater ease, purpose, and joy. The skills acquired in therapy enable us to face future challenges with courage and confidence.
(617) 616-8279 View (617) 616-8279
Photo of Christopher M. Carter, MSW, LICSW, BCD, CATODSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher M. Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, BCD, CATODSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02117  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My style is warm and casual, creating a dialogue that results in mutual insight and understanding. I like to take an active role in the discussion and use humor while providing an inviting environment to explore the problems and successes of your life. My approach is based in the Psychodynamic, Acceptance/Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR and Mindfulness traditions. I've worked in private practice since 2008 and also at the VA where I am a therapist for veterans in Boston. I graduated from Smith College School for Social Work in Northampton, MA and have practiced in the Boston area since.
My style is warm and casual, creating a dialogue that results in mutual insight and understanding. I like to take an active role in the discussion and use humor while providing an inviting environment to explore the problems and successes of your life. My approach is based in the Psychodynamic, Acceptance/Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR and Mindfulness traditions. I've worked in private practice since 2008 and also at the VA where I am a therapist for veterans in Boston. I graduated from Smith College School for Social Work in Northampton, MA and have practiced in the Boston area since.
(857) 401-8089 View (857) 401-8089
Photo of Beth Waterman, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Beth Waterman
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
Waitlist for new clients
I am Level 1 trained in IFS and EMDR and specialize in working with survivors of PTSD and early childhood trauma.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I specialize in working with individuals and couples that have been impacted by trauma. I believe we are shaped by our experiences and that each client is unique. There is not a “one size fits all” approach to trauma treatment, which is why I utilize an eclectic approach that focuses on each client’s needs. I use an individualized approach that includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), narrative therapy, and attachment theory to inform treatment. I also offer individual case consults and work with organizations as a consultant and trainer to improve understanding around trauma response.
I am Level 1 trained in IFS and EMDR and specialize in working with survivors of PTSD and early childhood trauma.
As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor I specialize in working with individuals and couples that have been impacted by trauma. I believe we are shaped by our experiences and that each client is unique. There is not a “one size fits all” approach to trauma treatment, which is why I utilize an eclectic approach that focuses on each client’s needs. I use an individualized approach that includes Internal Family Systems (IFS), narrative therapy, and attachment theory to inform treatment. I also offer individual case consults and work with organizations as a consultant and trainer to improve understanding around trauma response.
(339) 217-4191 View (339) 217-4191
Photo of Barbara Lavi - Dr Barbara Lavi Dream Positioning System ™, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr Barbara Lavi Dream Positioning System ™
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties: children & adults, individual, couple, family & group techniques, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), hypnosis & the Dream Positioning System.
Have the changes since the pandemic left you feeling stuck? Challenged? Do you want to enhance your life? Have you lost sight of your dreams? Whether you long to feel closer to your partner, are overwhelmed at work, or feel that being a parent leaves no time for your dreams, Dr. Lavi & her Dream Positioning System (DPS) can put YOU back in control of your life so you can start moving towards your dreams. Although the psychotherapeutic relationship lasts for life, therapy with Dr. Lavi will be as brief as possible. When issues arise down the road, clients can return to "recalculate"get back on track & reach their aspirations.
Specialties: children & adults, individual, couple, family & group techniques, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), hypnosis & the Dream Positioning System.
Have the changes since the pandemic left you feeling stuck? Challenged? Do you want to enhance your life? Have you lost sight of your dreams? Whether you long to feel closer to your partner, are overwhelmed at work, or feel that being a parent leaves no time for your dreams, Dr. Lavi & her Dream Positioning System (DPS) can put YOU back in control of your life so you can start moving towards your dreams. Although the psychotherapeutic relationship lasts for life, therapy with Dr. Lavi will be as brief as possible. When issues arise down the road, clients can return to "recalculate"get back on track & reach their aspirations.
(203) 212-9890 View (203) 212-9890
Photo of Dr. Abby Meszaros, LICSW, EdD, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Abby Meszaros
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EdD, EMDR
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02115  (Online Only)
As an EMDR clinician, I offer my clients a customized mix of psychotherapy and trauma focused treatment.
Today is your last day of scrolling through therapists. The last day of doubting yourself and the true intentions of everyone around you. You feel anxious all the time, completely exhausted, and you can’t remember the last time you felt truly connected to your emotions or really felt grounded in your body. You have always wondered how everyone else can live so carefree. Well, it’s your time now to experience the profound peace of finally releasing all of the things that are keeping you stuck. You're longing for someone to finally see the real you, someone with whom you can engage in life-changing, powerful therapeutic work together.
As an EMDR clinician, I offer my clients a customized mix of psychotherapy and trauma focused treatment.
Today is your last day of scrolling through therapists. The last day of doubting yourself and the true intentions of everyone around you. You feel anxious all the time, completely exhausted, and you can’t remember the last time you felt truly connected to your emotions or really felt grounded in your body. You have always wondered how everyone else can live so carefree. Well, it’s your time now to experience the profound peace of finally releasing all of the things that are keeping you stuck. You're longing for someone to finally see the real you, someone with whom you can engage in life-changing, powerful therapeutic work together.
(617) 404-4717 View (617) 404-4717
Photo of Genevieve Fuller, LMHC, BC-DMT, EMDR-C, Counselor
Genevieve Fuller
Counselor, LMHC, BC-DMT, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02110  (Online Only)
As a certified EMDR and dance/movement therapist (D/MT), my approach is rooted in the healing power of embodiment, mindfulness and a trusted therapeutic relationship.
Do you ever find it difficult to stand on solid ground while the world is in constant motion around you? And no matter what you do, it never feels like enough? We know life’s obstacles are unlikely to go away all together, but what if you were able to navigate them from a place of curiosity and self-compassion? I offer a relaxed, trauma-informed and non-judgmental space to collaboratively expand on the strengths you already possess and shift the patterns that no longer serve you. Together we can unlock your natural potential for restoration and growth- where you can root into your authentic self with confidence and ease.
As a certified EMDR and dance/movement therapist (D/MT), my approach is rooted in the healing power of embodiment, mindfulness and a trusted therapeutic relationship.
Do you ever find it difficult to stand on solid ground while the world is in constant motion around you? And no matter what you do, it never feels like enough? We know life’s obstacles are unlikely to go away all together, but what if you were able to navigate them from a place of curiosity and self-compassion? I offer a relaxed, trauma-informed and non-judgmental space to collaboratively expand on the strengths you already possess and shift the patterns that no longer serve you. Together we can unlock your natural potential for restoration and growth- where you can root into your authentic self with confidence and ease.
(617) 249-3727 View (617) 249-3727
Photo of Aline P Zoldbrod, PhD, AASECT, Psychologist
Aline P Zoldbrod
Psychologist, PhD, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02111
I am a well known, respected psychologist and sex therapist with a national and international reputation, AASECT certified since 1996. Clinically, I am warm, innovative, active, and effective. Multiple certifications in types of therapy, including EMDR, Sensorimotor therapy for trauma. Training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, hypnosis, and AEDP for couples. Author of 3 commercially published books, I have been cited by my peers in the literature on sexuality and relationships since 1992. You will know if I am right for you in one session, promise! See website for a wealth of information and articles. SexSmart.com
I am a well known, respected psychologist and sex therapist with a national and international reputation, AASECT certified since 1996. Clinically, I am warm, innovative, active, and effective. Multiple certifications in types of therapy, including EMDR, Sensorimotor therapy for trauma. Training in Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, hypnosis, and AEDP for couples. Author of 3 commercially published books, I have been cited by my peers in the literature on sexuality and relationships since 1992. You will know if I am right for you in one session, promise! See website for a wealth of information and articles. SexSmart.com
(781) 350-4454 View (781) 350-4454
Photo of Emma Gonzalez, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Emma Gonzalez
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02116
Trained in EMDR, DBT, IFS, and EFT, I customize therapy to suit your individual needs.
Are you feeling like you're living a double life? Caught between who you truly are and the expectations others have of you? It's like wandering through a foggy maze, uncertain of the next step. I specialize in guiding individuals and couples in this journey, providing understanding, support, and a safe space to unravel thoughts and emotions. Beyond mere listening, I offer empathy, validation, and coping strategies to help manage the uncomfortable. Together, we'll enhance resilience, self-worth, and unlock your potential, fostering a judgment-free environment where your voice holds immense power.
Trained in EMDR, DBT, IFS, and EFT, I customize therapy to suit your individual needs.
Are you feeling like you're living a double life? Caught between who you truly are and the expectations others have of you? It's like wandering through a foggy maze, uncertain of the next step. I specialize in guiding individuals and couples in this journey, providing understanding, support, and a safe space to unravel thoughts and emotions. Beyond mere listening, I offer empathy, validation, and coping strategies to help manage the uncomfortable. Together, we'll enhance resilience, self-worth, and unlock your potential, fostering a judgment-free environment where your voice holds immense power.
(857) 567-4531 View (857) 567-4531
Photo of Stephanie Baird, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Stephanie Baird
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02199  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Practicing since 1999, I have extensive experience treating PTSD/trauma (sexual abuse/assault, partner violence, etc.) and anxiety with EMDR. I'm an EMDRIA approved consultant (for clinicians), preferring short-term EMDR clients. I have a sexual health certification and am comfortable working with consenting non-monogamy, TGNC, and am kink-aware. We use your strengths to overcome current and historical obstacles, including burnout and life stress. Also, now offering private pay intensive EMDR sessions as my ongoing practice is full. Go to stephaniebairdlmhc.wordpress.com for info. I have a small 2-day a week practice.
Practicing since 1999, I have extensive experience treating PTSD/trauma (sexual abuse/assault, partner violence, etc.) and anxiety with EMDR. I'm an EMDRIA approved consultant (for clinicians), preferring short-term EMDR clients. I have a sexual health certification and am comfortable working with consenting non-monogamy, TGNC, and am kink-aware. We use your strengths to overcome current and historical obstacles, including burnout and life stress. Also, now offering private pay intensive EMDR sessions as my ongoing practice is full. Go to stephaniebairdlmhc.wordpress.com for info. I have a small 2-day a week practice.
(617) 997-0367 View (617) 997-0367
Photo of Lauren Beeman, LCSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Beeman
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Boston, MA 02109
EMDR has been successfully used to treat the following: Anxiety and Panic attacks, Depression, PTSD, Anger, Phobias, Sleep Problems, Grief and Loss, Additions, Pain, Performance Anxiety, and Feelings of Worthless/Low Self-Esteem.
Welcome! My name is Lauren Bissette. I have been a social worker since 2015 with experience with many diverse populations. I am a great listener, patient, and here for you!
EMDR has been successfully used to treat the following: Anxiety and Panic attacks, Depression, PTSD, Anger, Phobias, Sleep Problems, Grief and Loss, Additions, Pain, Performance Anxiety, and Feelings of Worthless/Low Self-Esteem.
Welcome! My name is Lauren Bissette. I have been a social worker since 2015 with experience with many diverse populations. I am a great listener, patient, and here for you!
(857) 578-1710 View (857) 578-1710
Photo of Michelle Bothmann, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Bothmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02116
I am also trained in EMDR.
I deeply understand the impact of feeling stuck and the challenges it can present in your life. I believe our past experiences can shape who we are, but they do not have to define our future. Whether you are seeking personal growth or navigating professional challenges, I am here to support you in embodying the best version of yourself while harnessing your internal resources.
I am also trained in EMDR.
I deeply understand the impact of feeling stuck and the challenges it can present in your life. I believe our past experiences can shape who we are, but they do not have to define our future. Whether you are seeking personal growth or navigating professional challenges, I am here to support you in embodying the best version of yourself while harnessing your internal resources.
(857) 382-4818 x703 View (857) 382-4818 x703
Photo of Kimika Watkins-Tashima, LMHC, Counselor
Kimika Watkins-Tashima
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
She will use an integrative approach to intervention using her training in trauma-focused, psychodynamics, attachment-based, IFS, component-based psychotherapy, DBT, EMDR, body-mind approach such as sensorimotor psychotherapy, family therapy, ARC, SMART, Mindfulness and CBT.
Kimika is a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with 15+ years of clinical experience partnering with adults, children, families and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues. She specializes particularly in treating individuals impacted by trauma including but not limited to attachment issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sociocultural issues, addiction, emotion regulation issues, loss, and life transition.
She will use an integrative approach to intervention using her training in trauma-focused, psychodynamics, attachment-based, IFS, component-based psychotherapy, DBT, EMDR, body-mind approach such as sensorimotor psychotherapy, family therapy, ARC, SMART, Mindfulness and CBT.
Kimika is a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) with 15+ years of clinical experience partnering with adults, children, families and couples seeking help with a wide variety of issues. She specializes particularly in treating individuals impacted by trauma including but not limited to attachment issues, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, sociocultural issues, addiction, emotion regulation issues, loss, and life transition.
(508) 406-7522 View (508) 406-7522
Photo of Sima (Sharon) Menora, PsyD, Psychologist
Sima (Sharon) Menora
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02109  (Online Only)
I incorporate somatic intervention, EMDR, and yoga, all through a client-centered, humanistic perspective.
I am a licensed psychologist offering trauma-informed individual and couples therapy. My clients and I work together to sort through their experiences both present and past. Through self-compassion, in a warm and safe environment, we work on improving your insight into your experiences and into your important relationships.
I incorporate somatic intervention, EMDR, and yoga, all through a client-centered, humanistic perspective.
I am a licensed psychologist offering trauma-informed individual and couples therapy. My clients and I work together to sort through their experiences both present and past. Through self-compassion, in a warm and safe environment, we work on improving your insight into your experiences and into your important relationships.
(508) 466-4645 View (508) 466-4645
Photo of Elizabeth A Willems, PsyD, Psychologist
Elizabeth A Willems
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Boston, MA 02110
We also include EMDR and aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in our work with clients.
ACCEPTing New Clients. Elizabeth Willems leads the Intercultural Psychological Services (IPS) practice. She focuses on traumatic memories, depression, stress management, relationship problems, and acculturation. Dr. Willems sees residents of CA, NY, MD, MA, FL, USA and select countries via phone/video. She holds a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University. She completed clinical training at the Center for Multicultural Training in Psychology, Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Massachusetts Mental Health Center, BMC Department of Behavioral Medicine, and Casa del Sol as well as other community clinics.
We also include EMDR and aspects of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in our work with clients.
ACCEPTing New Clients. Elizabeth Willems leads the Intercultural Psychological Services (IPS) practice. She focuses on traumatic memories, depression, stress management, relationship problems, and acculturation. Dr. Willems sees residents of CA, NY, MD, MA, FL, USA and select countries via phone/video. She holds a doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Alliant International University. She completed clinical training at the Center for Multicultural Training in Psychology, Harvard Longwood Psychiatry Massachusetts Mental Health Center, BMC Department of Behavioral Medicine, and Casa del Sol as well as other community clinics.
(415) 430-4174 View (415) 430-4174
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.