EMDR Therapists in Fall River, MA

Photo of Beth Donovan, LMHC, Counselor
Beth Donovan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02720  (Online Only)
We can use EMDR to address trauma, anxiety or nervous system dysregulation.
Do you have difficulty controlling worry? Racing thoughts? When the nervous system 'gets stuck' it can trigger anxiety, avoidance, dissociation, dysregulation or anger. You may shutdown. You may be constantly on the go and unable to relax. You may have the urge to put the needs of others before your own needs. You may have trouble setting boundaries. You may over-use substances, food or social media. You may feel burnt out and struggle to live authentically in harmony with your core values. Come As You Are Clinical Therapy is a boutique private practice specializing in Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Transitions and Trauma.
We can use EMDR to address trauma, anxiety or nervous system dysregulation.
Do you have difficulty controlling worry? Racing thoughts? When the nervous system 'gets stuck' it can trigger anxiety, avoidance, dissociation, dysregulation or anger. You may shutdown. You may be constantly on the go and unable to relax. You may have the urge to put the needs of others before your own needs. You may have trouble setting boundaries. You may over-use substances, food or social media. You may feel burnt out and struggle to live authentically in harmony with your core values. Come As You Are Clinical Therapy is a boutique private practice specializing in Generalized Anxiety, Social Anxiety, Transitions and Trauma.
(401) 496-8171 View (401) 496-8171
Photo of Caroline Mazzei, LMHC, Counselor
Caroline Mazzei
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02724
We can work together to build skills with CBT/DBT, use EMDR when appropriate & utilize self-compassion to foster a supportive relationship with yourself.
For all of us, life can present us with unexpected challenges and transitions. These periods can be filled with overwhelming emotions and sometimes activate old wounds from our past. Starting a new therapeutic relationship can be a big step towards addressing what is happening and where you’d like to be. Let’s begin a collaborative journey to talk about what you are going through & identify your goals. We will bring mindfulness and curiosity to your experience in order to help you feel better. I highlight the interplay of our emotional health with our physical bodies, social environment & spiritual identity.
We can work together to build skills with CBT/DBT, use EMDR when appropriate & utilize self-compassion to foster a supportive relationship with yourself.
For all of us, life can present us with unexpected challenges and transitions. These periods can be filled with overwhelming emotions and sometimes activate old wounds from our past. Starting a new therapeutic relationship can be a big step towards addressing what is happening and where you’d like to be. Let’s begin a collaborative journey to talk about what you are going through & identify your goals. We will bring mindfulness and curiosity to your experience in order to help you feel better. I highlight the interplay of our emotional health with our physical bodies, social environment & spiritual identity.
(774) 268-3963 View (774) 268-3963
Photo of Madison Detwiler, MS, Counselor
Madison Detwiler
Counselor, MS
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02723  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR, play therapy, and family therapy.
I will work with you to improve your relationships, learn how to advocate for yourself and build self-confidence, and work through trauma. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ identified folks and empowering them to live authentically and confidently in a world that may not always understand or support their experiences. I believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, learn new skills, and work towards living your best life.
I am trained in EMDR, play therapy, and family therapy.
I will work with you to improve your relationships, learn how to advocate for yourself and build self-confidence, and work through trauma. I especially enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ identified folks and empowering them to live authentically and confidently in a world that may not always understand or support their experiences. I believe that everyone deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, nonjudgmental space where you can explore your emotions, learn new skills, and work towards living your best life.
(508) 625-9184 View (508) 625-9184
Photo of Lisa Olinger, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa Olinger
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02720
I am able to offer a variety of treatment options including EMDR, CBT, CPT, Grief, and IFS.
Welcome - Do you feel overwhelmed, confused, lost? Not sure what to do next? You don't have to handle this alone. I treat adults throughout all stages of life and help those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma (any type of adverse life events), life transitions, etc. (see additional specialties below). Contact me for assistance.
I am able to offer a variety of treatment options including EMDR, CBT, CPT, Grief, and IFS.
Welcome - Do you feel overwhelmed, confused, lost? Not sure what to do next? You don't have to handle this alone. I treat adults throughout all stages of life and help those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma (any type of adverse life events), life transitions, etc. (see additional specialties below). Contact me for assistance.
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Photo of Kerry Duarte - Ray of Light Wellness LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ray of Light Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720  (Online Only)
Ray of Light Wellness LLC is an online mental health group practice servicing residents in MA, RI, & CT. We currently have availability for clients in MA & RI ! We are a dedicated team of therapists who seek to provide effective, accessible, and affordable mental health services. We care and value our clients. We are honored to guide our clients on their healing journeys. As a group we have an array of specialties and treatment approaches to meet clients' needs. Our goal is to help you become an expert on your mental health and acquire the skills to manage the challenges you are facing. Check out our IG page rayoflightwellnessllc
Ray of Light Wellness LLC is an online mental health group practice servicing residents in MA, RI, & CT. We currently have availability for clients in MA & RI ! We are a dedicated team of therapists who seek to provide effective, accessible, and affordable mental health services. We care and value our clients. We are honored to guide our clients on their healing journeys. As a group we have an array of specialties and treatment approaches to meet clients' needs. Our goal is to help you become an expert on your mental health and acquire the skills to manage the challenges you are facing. Check out our IG page rayoflightwellnessllc
(508) 964-0140 View (508) 964-0140
Photo of Evan Colbert, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Evan Colbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02720
Not accepting new clients
**I am not currently accepting new clients at this time** - I have 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families who have experienced complex trauma. I use a variety of interventions for helping people process their emotions including EMDR, hypnotherapy, art/ expressive therapies along with traditional cognitive behavioral therapy. I also specialize in working with the LGBT population and have supported transgender clients in meeting the current standards of care for GRS. I use a person centered, strengths based approach and will work closely with you on identifying what you want to get out of therapy.
**I am not currently accepting new clients at this time** - I have 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families who have experienced complex trauma. I use a variety of interventions for helping people process their emotions including EMDR, hypnotherapy, art/ expressive therapies along with traditional cognitive behavioral therapy. I also specialize in working with the LGBT population and have supported transgender clients in meeting the current standards of care for GRS. I use a person centered, strengths based approach and will work closely with you on identifying what you want to get out of therapy.
(774) 322-2936 View (774) 322-2936

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carly Denardis - MindWell Therapy Services, MA, LMHC, Counselor
MindWell Therapy Services
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
I integrate an eclectic mix of evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), mindfulness techniques, and strengths-based approaches into our sessions.
Choosing to seek support is a brave and transformative step towards personal growth and healing. As a dedicated mental health counselor, I am honored to accompany individuals like you on this journey. My approach to counseling is deeply rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. Together, we will work towards understanding the challenges you face and discovering your strengths and resilience.
I integrate an eclectic mix of evidence-based practices such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), mindfulness techniques, and strengths-based approaches into our sessions.
Choosing to seek support is a brave and transformative step towards personal growth and healing. As a dedicated mental health counselor, I am honored to accompany individuals like you on this journey. My approach to counseling is deeply rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe in creating a safe and non-judgmental space where we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and experiences openly. Together, we will work towards understanding the challenges you face and discovering your strengths and resilience.
(508) 978-1352 View (508) 978-1352
Photo of Carol A Dupre, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol A Dupre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Berkley, MA 02779
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a passion for the strength of the human spirit and the resiliency that can accompany it. It is my personal and clinical position that we all possess the innate power and strength to rise above the challenges we as human beings face. Everyone is unique in their own way, and it is my belief that the therapeutic process should be tailored to reflect that. A positive, open and nonjudgmental working-relationship is at the core of the healing journey. I am drawn to the power of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Exposure Prevention Therapy all from a trauma-informed lens.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a passion for the strength of the human spirit and the resiliency that can accompany it. It is my personal and clinical position that we all possess the innate power and strength to rise above the challenges we as human beings face. Everyone is unique in their own way, and it is my belief that the therapeutic process should be tailored to reflect that. A positive, open and nonjudgmental working-relationship is at the core of the healing journey. I am drawn to the power of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Exposure Prevention Therapy all from a trauma-informed lens.
(413) 423-0693 View (413) 423-0693
Photo of Sofia Irons, MSW, LICSW, GC-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sofia Irons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, GC-C
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I hold a Grief Counseling Certificate (CG-C), Complex Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCPT-II) certification, and trained to do EMDR, an evidenced-based treatment used for a variety of conditions.
Welcoming NEW clients! I value my client relationship and believe that building rapport is essential to having positive results. Together, we will focus on gaining insight, learning healthy coping strategies, and healing from your past. My specialty is treating grief, mood disorders, and trauma. I am licensed in RI, MA, and ME, making me a great fit for commuters. If you are ready to make a change, contact me!
I hold a Grief Counseling Certificate (CG-C), Complex Trauma Professional Level 2 (CCPT-II) certification, and trained to do EMDR, an evidenced-based treatment used for a variety of conditions.
Welcoming NEW clients! I value my client relationship and believe that building rapport is essential to having positive results. Together, we will focus on gaining insight, learning healthy coping strategies, and healing from your past. My specialty is treating grief, mood disorders, and trauma. I am licensed in RI, MA, and ME, making me a great fit for commuters. If you are ready to make a change, contact me!
(401) 343-7364 View (401) 343-7364
Photo of Tracey Kelce, LMHC, CAGS, CRC, MA, Counselor
Tracey Kelce
Counselor, LMHC, CAGS, CRC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westport, MA 02790
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified in EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing), CPT (cognitive processing therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy) and Grief Processing.
Licensed clinician. 15+ years' experience using modern effective treatment assisting adults in overcoming obstacles to their well-being, so they feel better, do better and lead happier lives. My goal is to help ease your suffering by working with you to overcome the difficulties you are experiencing. I offer an individualized flexible strength-based approach in working with you. First establishing trust and understanding of your situation. We are a team. Change is Possible. MY AVAILABILITY FOR NEW CLIENTS CHANGES. PLEASE CHECK-IN WITH ME TO SEE IF I AM TAKING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME.
I am certified in EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing), CPT (cognitive processing therapy), DBT (dialectical behavioral therapy) and Grief Processing.
Licensed clinician. 15+ years' experience using modern effective treatment assisting adults in overcoming obstacles to their well-being, so they feel better, do better and lead happier lives. My goal is to help ease your suffering by working with you to overcome the difficulties you are experiencing. I offer an individualized flexible strength-based approach in working with you. First establishing trust and understanding of your situation. We are a team. Change is Possible. MY AVAILABILITY FOR NEW CLIENTS CHANGES. PLEASE CHECK-IN WITH ME TO SEE IF I AM TAKING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME.
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Photo of Miriam R. Silverstone, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Miriam R. Silverstone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westport, MA 02790  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Healing begins in the relationship - this is the very foundation of my practice. It can be scary to share the most vulnerable parts of ourselves. I believe in building a foundation of trust, acceptance and meeting clients where they are at. Wherever you are in your journey, I am here to guide you to your truth, whatever that means for you. I have worked with adults at various points in their lives utilizing several modalities, including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, CBT, DBT and psychodynamic therapy. Together, we will find an approach that is tailored to you.
Healing begins in the relationship - this is the very foundation of my practice. It can be scary to share the most vulnerable parts of ourselves. I believe in building a foundation of trust, acceptance and meeting clients where they are at. Wherever you are in your journey, I am here to guide you to your truth, whatever that means for you. I have worked with adults at various points in their lives utilizing several modalities, including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, CBT, DBT and psychodynamic therapy. Together, we will find an approach that is tailored to you.
(508) 625-7966 View (508) 625-7966
Photo of Shabana Mohamed, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shabana Mohamed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swansea, MA 02777  (Online Only)
I am trained in psychodynamic and insight oriented therapies, solution focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR and exposure therapy.
Connecting with a therapist can feel like a challenge. I hope to provide a safe and inclusive space for my clients to feel heard and understood. I believe in exploring each person’s individual strengths while also challenging them to work towards their goals to make positive changes in their lives. My areas of interest and expertise include treating and managing life with ADHD, late diagnosed/identified Autism, women's issues, anxiety, and issues related to cultural identity and intergenerational trauma.
I am trained in psychodynamic and insight oriented therapies, solution focused therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR and exposure therapy.
Connecting with a therapist can feel like a challenge. I hope to provide a safe and inclusive space for my clients to feel heard and understood. I believe in exploring each person’s individual strengths while also challenging them to work towards their goals to make positive changes in their lives. My areas of interest and expertise include treating and managing life with ADHD, late diagnosed/identified Autism, women's issues, anxiety, and issues related to cultural identity and intergenerational trauma.
(508) 374-9729 View (508) 374-9729
Photo of David Fentress, EdD, Psychologist
David Fentress
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
In addition to extensive experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapies, I am a Certified Practitioner, Approved Consultant and Training Facilitator for EMDR (Reprocessing) Therapy.
I am a Harvard educated, Boston Children's Hospital and Erich Lindemann Mental Health Center trained clinical psychologist, and am a founding member of Psychiatric & Psychological Associates (New Bedford, MA) and Director of the Psychology Department at Whitney Academy, a Joint Commission accredited residential treatment center serving adolescent trauma survivors. I have more than 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families for a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, behavior problems, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related challenges.
In addition to extensive experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapies, I am a Certified Practitioner, Approved Consultant and Training Facilitator for EMDR (Reprocessing) Therapy.
I am a Harvard educated, Boston Children's Hospital and Erich Lindemann Mental Health Center trained clinical psychologist, and am a founding member of Psychiatric & Psychological Associates (New Bedford, MA) and Director of the Psychology Department at Whitney Academy, a Joint Commission accredited residential treatment center serving adolescent trauma survivors. I have more than 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families for a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, behavior problems, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related challenges.
(508) 514-1045 View (508) 514-1045
Photo of Roxanne Martins, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Roxanne Martins
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerset, MA 02726  (Online Only)
I am trained and experienced in EMDR and IFS, and offer a client centered approach to therapy and believe that everyone can become empowered to find self-healing and reach their highest potential.
Hello, I work with adults only. I have 30 years of experience working in the mental health field in various clinical settings. I have been in private practice for the last 17 years and enjoy working with my clients to help them achieve their personal goals. I believe that it is a strength to seek therapy as we all need to take care of our mental health and sometimes need support in doing so.
I am trained and experienced in EMDR and IFS, and offer a client centered approach to therapy and believe that everyone can become empowered to find self-healing and reach their highest potential.
Hello, I work with adults only. I have 30 years of experience working in the mental health field in various clinical settings. I have been in private practice for the last 17 years and enjoy working with my clients to help them achieve their personal goals. I believe that it is a strength to seek therapy as we all need to take care of our mental health and sometimes need support in doing so.
(774) 322-9574 View (774) 322-9574
Photo of Shannon M Foley, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon M Foley
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
I am trained in EMDR, Meditation and Energy Healing techniques.
I am interested in working with adult individuals who are looking for ways to enhance the quality of their lives and learn new ways to respond to life’s challenges. I am a Trauma-informed Holistic counselor, addressing the body, mind and spirit connection with the aim of helping you live your best life. I look at the therapeutic process as a collaborative partnership... in this container real transformation is possible.
I am trained in EMDR, Meditation and Energy Healing techniques.
I am interested in working with adult individuals who are looking for ways to enhance the quality of their lives and learn new ways to respond to life’s challenges. I am a Trauma-informed Holistic counselor, addressing the body, mind and spirit connection with the aim of helping you live your best life. I look at the therapeutic process as a collaborative partnership... in this container real transformation is possible.
(508) 484-8220 View (508) 484-8220
Photo of Catherine Harvey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dartmouth, MA 02747
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
(508) 715-8802 View (508) 715-8802
Photo of Dawn Perry, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Berkley, MA 02779  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, DBT, CBT and exposure prevention therapy, all from a trauma informed lens.
Psychotherapy focuses on restoring perspective and building confidence in addressing life's challenges. Counseling can be an exciting and challenging experience. Together we can help you focus on and repair struggles from day to day life. Whether it be stress, worry, depression, conflict or even feeling "off", whatever it may be let's start this journey together and focus on creating a new chapter.
I utilize EMDR, DBT, CBT and exposure prevention therapy, all from a trauma informed lens.
Psychotherapy focuses on restoring perspective and building confidence in addressing life's challenges. Counseling can be an exciting and challenging experience. Together we can help you focus on and repair struggles from day to day life. Whether it be stress, worry, depression, conflict or even feeling "off", whatever it may be let's start this journey together and focus on creating a new chapter.
(508) 571-6687 View (508) 571-6687
Photo of Robert J Marek, LICSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert J Marek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dartmouth, MA 02747
My ideal client feels overwhelmed by anxiety daily. Work or family life have conflicts, maybe both are unpleasant. But you want to succeed and have a good life. You are tired of not understanding yourself and want a better life..
My ideal client feels overwhelmed by anxiety daily. Work or family life have conflicts, maybe both are unpleasant. But you want to succeed and have a good life. You are tired of not understanding yourself and want a better life..
(774) 501-0172 View (774) 501-0172
Photo of Janice Jewell - OneLife Group, LLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
OneLife Group, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Swansea, MA 02777
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unhealthy ways of coping, a challenging circumstance, or loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, and ability to function at work or school? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, or lost by the demands and pressures of life? Do you wonder if your life could be better? We understand that it can feel like there will never be freedom, things will never change, and our problems are too big - these feelings can be isolating and defeating. But there is HOPE because you were designed to heal.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unhealthy ways of coping, a challenging circumstance, or loss of a sense of self that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, and ability to function at work or school? Do you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, or lost by the demands and pressures of life? Do you wonder if your life could be better? We understand that it can feel like there will never be freedom, things will never change, and our problems are too big - these feelings can be isolating and defeating. But there is HOPE because you were designed to heal.
(877) 450-3596 View (877) 450-3596
Photo of Michelle Sarkar, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Sarkar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Westport, MA 02790
I begin the journey with new clients by asking, "What events in your life have led you to seek therapy now?" A frequent answer is, "I'm looking for someone to listen to me without passing judgment." We all need a secure environment to express ourselves, be listened to, and feel our emotions are acknowledged. The therapeutic setting provides this haven. Embarking on therapy with me will offer the guidance and framework necessary for clearer thinking, enabling you to establish and reach your personal goals.
I begin the journey with new clients by asking, "What events in your life have led you to seek therapy now?" A frequent answer is, "I'm looking for someone to listen to me without passing judgment." We all need a secure environment to express ourselves, be listened to, and feel our emotions are acknowledged. The therapeutic setting provides this haven. Embarking on therapy with me will offer the guidance and framework necessary for clearer thinking, enabling you to establish and reach your personal goals.
(508) 619-1206 View (508) 619-1206
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.