EMDR Therapists in Holliston, MA

Photo of Lindsay R. Maxwell, LMHC, Counselor
Lindsay R. Maxwell
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Holliston, MA 01746  (Online Only)
I utilize varying counseling modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic and motivational interviewing.
Life can be unpredictable. When you compound the everyday stress with a person's experience of trauma, relationship challenges, financial burdens, moves or career changes, it can feel overwhelming and at times, unbearable. You are not alone. We can work together to help you navigate these difficulties and ultimately create the life you envision for yourself. I have fifteen years of experience working in a variety of settings including, rape crisis counseling, community mental health, college counseling and private practice. I enjoy working with young adults, adults, and couples.
I utilize varying counseling modalities, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic and motivational interviewing.
Life can be unpredictable. When you compound the everyday stress with a person's experience of trauma, relationship challenges, financial burdens, moves or career changes, it can feel overwhelming and at times, unbearable. You are not alone. We can work together to help you navigate these difficulties and ultimately create the life you envision for yourself. I have fifteen years of experience working in a variety of settings including, rape crisis counseling, community mental health, college counseling and private practice. I enjoy working with young adults, adults, and couples.
(774) 209-5222 View (774) 209-5222
Photo of Kathryn Cumming, MA, CAGS, LMHC, Certifi, EMDR, Counselor
Kathryn Cumming
Counselor, MA, CAGS, LMHC, Certifi, EMDR
Verified Verified
Holliston, MA 01746
In addition to traditional psychotherapy and CBT, I am a certified EMDR therapist.
I am a certified EMDR psychotherapist. I offer safety & empathy without judgement in a calm relaxed environment where it's safe to be you. Sometimes your thoughts are your biggest challenge. Anxiety, depression, negative thinking, feeling stuck or confused, trouble finding motivation, these and other feelings can be managed, even overcome. Let's work together and collaboratively help you to feel better. With support you can tackle issues and create change. We find and focus on your strengths to unearth the answers. We tailor therapy so it challenges you and your comfort level at a pace that fosters progress in a safe environment.
In addition to traditional psychotherapy and CBT, I am a certified EMDR therapist.
I am a certified EMDR psychotherapist. I offer safety & empathy without judgement in a calm relaxed environment where it's safe to be you. Sometimes your thoughts are your biggest challenge. Anxiety, depression, negative thinking, feeling stuck or confused, trouble finding motivation, these and other feelings can be managed, even overcome. Let's work together and collaboratively help you to feel better. With support you can tackle issues and create change. We find and focus on your strengths to unearth the answers. We tailor therapy so it challenges you and your comfort level at a pace that fosters progress in a safe environment.
(508) 374-9851 View (508) 374-9851
Photo of Cynthia L Meeske, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia L Meeske
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holliston, MA 01746
I specialize in trauma and am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) . I offer both hourly and intensive formats. My typical client is a survivor of childhood abuse, domestic violence, or sexual trauma. I love helping people to heal their old wounds and feel relief and the ability to move into the healthiest and happiest versions of themselves. I work with adults only. I work most frequently with women and members of the LGBTQ+ population.
I specialize in trauma and am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) . I offer both hourly and intensive formats. My typical client is a survivor of childhood abuse, domestic violence, or sexual trauma. I love helping people to heal their old wounds and feel relief and the ability to move into the healthiest and happiest versions of themselves. I work with adults only. I work most frequently with women and members of the LGBTQ+ population.
(774) 573-1644 View (774) 573-1644
Photo of Deborah Rouslin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Rouslin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Holliston, MA 01746
I specialize in trauma work and am trained in EMDR.
As of 10/28/24 I have day time openings for new clients. Please contact me through email. Hello and welcome to my Private Practice. I understand how difficult and scary it can be to take this first step and reach out for help and support. Life sometimes is not easy and we find ourselves navigating issues such as trauma, parenting, relationships. or unexpected loss. My style is oriented around growth and strength. I am here and ready to help.
I specialize in trauma work and am trained in EMDR.
As of 10/28/24 I have day time openings for new clients. Please contact me through email. Hello and welcome to my Private Practice. I understand how difficult and scary it can be to take this first step and reach out for help and support. Life sometimes is not easy and we find ourselves navigating issues such as trauma, parenting, relationships. or unexpected loss. My style is oriented around growth and strength. I am here and ready to help.
(617) 315-2782 View (617) 315-2782
Photo of Kevin Hayden, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Hayden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Holliston, MA 01746  (Online Only)
I use EMDR, CBT and solution focused therapy and work with my clients on lifestyle changes (physical activity, habit changes, creating structure, and stress management, etc.
Hi, I'm Kevin. I am here to help. Are you struggling with anxiety, navigating social situations, past issues, or feeling overwhelmed by work and relationships? You are not alone. I help people like you feel better about themselves, improve their relationships, break free from these patterns, show up in their life, and create lasting, positive changes. I am here to support you through a thoughtful, supportive and guiding approach to therapy.
I use EMDR, CBT and solution focused therapy and work with my clients on lifestyle changes (physical activity, habit changes, creating structure, and stress management, etc.
Hi, I'm Kevin. I am here to help. Are you struggling with anxiety, navigating social situations, past issues, or feeling overwhelmed by work and relationships? You are not alone. I help people like you feel better about themselves, improve their relationships, break free from these patterns, show up in their life, and create lasting, positive changes. I am here to support you through a thoughtful, supportive and guiding approach to therapy.
(617) 380-6022 View (617) 380-6022
Photo of Bill Dwinnells, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, Counselor
Bill Dwinnells
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Holliston, MA 01746  (Online Only)
With over two decades of unwavering commitment to the field of mental health, I am a seasoned and compassionate counselor. I have extensive experience and diverse skill set that has empowered countless individuals to navigate life's challenges. I help have helped many people through life stage transitions, such as graduating school and transitioning into adulthood.
With over two decades of unwavering commitment to the field of mental health, I am a seasoned and compassionate counselor. I have extensive experience and diverse skill set that has empowered countless individuals to navigate life's challenges. I help have helped many people through life stage transitions, such as graduating school and transitioning into adulthood.
(508) 456-6485 View (508) 456-6485
Photo of Rebecca Morgan, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Holliston, MA 01746  (Online Only)
My approach is humanistic and existential, addressing both immediate and ultimate concerns of living. If you're feeling stuck and want real change in your life, for conditions such as depression, anxiety or resolving a past trauma, there's no way around taking risks and challenging established behaviors and belief systems. By moving out of your comfort zone, going deep inside yourself and far into the larger global community, I can help you. Using a variety of complementary techniques--you can learn to undo long-standing, maladaptive actions/reactions or negative perceptions that stand in the way of a more rich and meaningful life.
My approach is humanistic and existential, addressing both immediate and ultimate concerns of living. If you're feeling stuck and want real change in your life, for conditions such as depression, anxiety or resolving a past trauma, there's no way around taking risks and challenging established behaviors and belief systems. By moving out of your comfort zone, going deep inside yourself and far into the larger global community, I can help you. Using a variety of complementary techniques--you can learn to undo long-standing, maladaptive actions/reactions or negative perceptions that stand in the way of a more rich and meaningful life.
(508) 619-4171 View (508) 619-4171

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Leigh-Ann Larson, LMHC, Counselor
Leigh-Ann Larson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hopkinton, MA 01748  (Online Only)
I specialize in grief work. I am a spirit medium as well as a mental health counselor. I use EMDR (eye movement) to help clients experience Induced After Death Communication (IADC) with their loved ones. This helps facilitate the grief process and has a powerful impact on understanding how your loved one is still with you and continues to help you and shape your life. This is the most powerful tool I have found in grief work and I find it incredibly more helpful than even doing mediumship readings. Though both have their benefits.
I specialize in grief work. I am a spirit medium as well as a mental health counselor. I use EMDR (eye movement) to help clients experience Induced After Death Communication (IADC) with their loved ones. This helps facilitate the grief process and has a powerful impact on understanding how your loved one is still with you and continues to help you and shape your life. This is the most powerful tool I have found in grief work and I find it incredibly more helpful than even doing mediumship readings. Though both have their benefits.
(774) 213-4018 View (774) 213-4018
Photo of Sheila DeMelle, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheila DeMelle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Dover, MA 02030
Waitlist for new clients
I am both EMDR Certified and ASCH Certified.
Do you want to find a therapist who is attentive, respectful, empathic and effective? Are you struggling with feelings of deep sadness or anxiety? Do you find certain issues in your life overwhelming? I will provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to talk comfortably about your problems, challenges, hopes and goals. I enjoy developing warm and trusting relationships with my clients, and believe that you deserve to be happier.
I am both EMDR Certified and ASCH Certified.
Do you want to find a therapist who is attentive, respectful, empathic and effective? Are you struggling with feelings of deep sadness or anxiety? Do you find certain issues in your life overwhelming? I will provide a safe and non-judgmental environment for you to talk comfortably about your problems, challenges, hopes and goals. I enjoy developing warm and trusting relationships with my clients, and believe that you deserve to be happier.
(617) 383-9942 View (617) 383-9942
Photo of Betsy Harris, LICSW, DBT-LBC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, DBT-LBC
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
 I’m a compassionate, down-to-earth therapist, trained in DBT and EMDR, specializing in supporting adults who are looking for more than just talk therapy and ready to do deeper work.
You’re ready for real change.  You’ve tried deep breathing, you’ve tried taking bubble baths, and the self-help books. Maybe you’ve even tried therapy before, but while talking felt good, it didn’t create the change you were looking for.  You feel stuck in cycles of self-criticism, triggered by memories of the past and overwhelmed with emotions.  You’re juggling everything and feeling burnt out. Living like this is not working for you anymore, and you’re ready for real change.
 I’m a compassionate, down-to-earth therapist, trained in DBT and EMDR, specializing in supporting adults who are looking for more than just talk therapy and ready to do deeper work.
You’re ready for real change.  You’ve tried deep breathing, you’ve tried taking bubble baths, and the self-help books. Maybe you’ve even tried therapy before, but while talking felt good, it didn’t create the change you were looking for.  You feel stuck in cycles of self-criticism, triggered by memories of the past and overwhelmed with emotions.  You’re juggling everything and feeling burnt out. Living like this is not working for you anymore, and you’re ready for real change.
(508) 719-7581 View (508) 719-7581
Photo of Kellie Cahalane, Counselor
Kellie Cahalane
Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southborough, MA 01772  (Online Only)
Specific interventions may include Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, breathwork exercises, guided imagery, inner child work and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I currently have virtual sessions available. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with extensive experience in healing environments. I work with a wide variety of individuals including those suffering from trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, addiction, adjustment disorders, low self-worth, chronic stress, relational distress and almost any impairment to functioning as one’s best self. Using a trauma informed, person-centered approach for therapeutic healing, we will work to establish an environment of trust and compassion that allows for transformation.
Specific interventions may include Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, breathwork exercises, guided imagery, inner child work and Emotional Freedom Technique.
I currently have virtual sessions available. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with extensive experience in healing environments. I work with a wide variety of individuals including those suffering from trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, addiction, adjustment disorders, low self-worth, chronic stress, relational distress and almost any impairment to functioning as one’s best self. Using a trauma informed, person-centered approach for therapeutic healing, we will work to establish an environment of trust and compassion that allows for transformation.
(351) 277-0190 View (351) 277-0190
Photo of Dawn Perry - Dawn Perry LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Perry LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dover, MA 02030  (Online Only)
I utilize multiple modalities including EMDR and RO-DBT.
Accepting new clients! I blend a professional expertise with a down-to-earth approach, ensuring that while we navigate your journey, we're also building a connection that feels genuine and supportive. Navigating complex emotions, traumatic experiences, or daily stressors can be overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. My approach is all about creating a space where you're seen and heard, blending empathy with evidence-based strategies to support your journey towards healing. My job is to help facilitate the process, keeping in mind you are the expert of your own life. Together, we will work to promote positive change.
I utilize multiple modalities including EMDR and RO-DBT.
Accepting new clients! I blend a professional expertise with a down-to-earth approach, ensuring that while we navigate your journey, we're also building a connection that feels genuine and supportive. Navigating complex emotions, traumatic experiences, or daily stressors can be overwhelming, but you don't have to do it alone. My approach is all about creating a space where you're seen and heard, blending empathy with evidence-based strategies to support your journey towards healing. My job is to help facilitate the process, keeping in mind you are the expert of your own life. Together, we will work to promote positive change.
(401) 298-2560 View (401) 298-2560
Photo of Dr. April Berry-Fletcher, LICSW, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. April Berry-Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EdD
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
I enthusiastically approach your therapy with a high level of skill and spirit of optimism. I have been fortunate to enjoy over 25 years practicing and teaching the art and science of therapy with issues related to ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, learning disabilities, family conflict, and relationship challenges. I specialize in helping you envision and to live a more satisfying life. Our work benefits from my advanced training in psychodynamic, somatic, hypnosis, psychedelic-assisted, EMDR, Cognitive-behavioral, and other therapies that enable us to work through barriers that block your healing and growth.
I enthusiastically approach your therapy with a high level of skill and spirit of optimism. I have been fortunate to enjoy over 25 years practicing and teaching the art and science of therapy with issues related to ADHD, depression, trauma, anxiety, eating disorders, learning disabilities, family conflict, and relationship challenges. I specialize in helping you envision and to live a more satisfying life. Our work benefits from my advanced training in psychodynamic, somatic, hypnosis, psychedelic-assisted, EMDR, Cognitive-behavioral, and other therapies that enable us to work through barriers that block your healing and growth.
(617) 600-4029 View (617) 600-4029
Photo of Kerry Morrison, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerry Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
I use a blend of clinical modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS); Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and other mind/body techniques; DBT; and CBT.
We all have a unique story to tell. Our stories need witnessing, understanding, and even transformation. I believe that therapy provides such a transformative space. It is only in telling our stories, slowing down and recognizing our automatic thoughts and responses that we can reveal our unique inner resources and the truth that we already have everything we need to embrace lives of connection, health, and purpose. It is a creative and collaborative endeavor, navigating internal and external struggles, organizing thoughts and feelings, identifying patterns, and being curious about our own (and each other’s ’) stories.
I use a blend of clinical modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS); Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and other mind/body techniques; DBT; and CBT.
We all have a unique story to tell. Our stories need witnessing, understanding, and even transformation. I believe that therapy provides such a transformative space. It is only in telling our stories, slowing down and recognizing our automatic thoughts and responses that we can reveal our unique inner resources and the truth that we already have everything we need to embrace lives of connection, health, and purpose. It is a creative and collaborative endeavor, navigating internal and external struggles, organizing thoughts and feelings, identifying patterns, and being curious about our own (and each other’s ’) stories.
(508) 501-8203 View (508) 501-8203
Photo of Raisa Stinson, LMHC, Counselor
Raisa Stinson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Framingham, MA 01701  (Online Only)
I am internationally certified as an EMDR therapist, and I am proficient in "Parts therapy" (known as "Internal Family Systems," or IFS) Feelings and emotions always "live" in the bod.
Iam a trauma-focused therapist licensed in the State of Massachusetts. I have a deep interest in people, patience to listen, and unlimited capacity for compassion. I have been exposed to many different cultures and understand how cultural differences can make everything more challenging. I am an experienced couple counselor. I have helped many couples to improve their communication, rekindle their love, and live fuller and happier lives.
I am internationally certified as an EMDR therapist, and I am proficient in "Parts therapy" (known as "Internal Family Systems," or IFS) Feelings and emotions always "live" in the bod.
Iam a trauma-focused therapist licensed in the State of Massachusetts. I have a deep interest in people, patience to listen, and unlimited capacity for compassion. I have been exposed to many different cultures and understand how cultural differences can make everything more challenging. I am an experienced couple counselor. I have helped many couples to improve their communication, rekindle their love, and live fuller and happier lives.
(508) 682-4925 View (508) 682-4925
Photo of Selina Lang, LMHC, Counselor
Selina Lang
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wellesley, MA 02482
I also offer EMDR and have completed all required EMDRIA approved training.
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals having difficulty navigating LGBTQIA2S+ related challenges, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, low self-esteem, life transitions, and trauma. I am LGBTQIA2S+ affirming and antiracist, and I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic space where clients feel safe and empowered.
I also offer EMDR and have completed all required EMDRIA approved training.
I am an independent Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Massachusetts. I received my Master of Arts degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a specialization in Art Therapy from Lesley University. I have worked with adolescents and adults in a multitude of settings. I have extensive experience working with individuals having difficulty navigating LGBTQIA2S+ related challenges, anxiety, depression, substance misuse, low self-esteem, life transitions, and trauma. I am LGBTQIA2S+ affirming and antiracist, and I am dedicated to creating a therapeutic space where clients feel safe and empowered.
(781) 678-7398 View (781) 678-7398
Photo of Stella Ukairo - Be Renewed Therapy & Wellness Center LLC., LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Be Renewed Therapy & Wellness Center LLC.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Framingham, MA 01701  (Online Only)
I utilize a holistic approach and integrate various approaches such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and Brainspotting.
Are you a Christian/Person of Faith who is struggling with anxiety, feeling down a lot of the time? Do you have difficulty believing you are worthy of love, success or a life worth living? Are you feeling distant from God or disillusioned because of life's challenges? Perhaps you feel like you are "not good enough” or you feel that no one understands or “gets” you? You want to move forward, but feel stuck. Is your mindset holding you back? Do not be afraid. You can change! Come in. We will explore ALL that is blocking you from being the best version of yourself. Be Transformed by the Renewal of your Mind.
I utilize a holistic approach and integrate various approaches such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), EMDR and Brainspotting.
Are you a Christian/Person of Faith who is struggling with anxiety, feeling down a lot of the time? Do you have difficulty believing you are worthy of love, success or a life worth living? Are you feeling distant from God or disillusioned because of life's challenges? Perhaps you feel like you are "not good enough” or you feel that no one understands or “gets” you? You want to move forward, but feel stuck. Is your mindset holding you back? Do not be afraid. You can change! Come in. We will explore ALL that is blocking you from being the best version of yourself. Be Transformed by the Renewal of your Mind.
(508) 231-5974 View (508) 231-5974
Photo of Cody Nicholson, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Cody Nicholson
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Framingham, MA 01701  (Online Only)
My practice primarily focuses on mid brain therapies such as EMDR therapy, Deep Brain Reorienting and Brainspotting.
My ideal client is someone who is not only ready for positive change but also highly motivated to actively engage in the therapeutic process. I particularly appreciate individuals who embrace openness to progressive modalities, as this allows us to explore innovative and effective approaches together, fostering a collaborative journey towards growth.
My practice primarily focuses on mid brain therapies such as EMDR therapy, Deep Brain Reorienting and Brainspotting.
My ideal client is someone who is not only ready for positive change but also highly motivated to actively engage in the therapeutic process. I particularly appreciate individuals who embrace openness to progressive modalities, as this allows us to explore innovative and effective approaches together, fostering a collaborative journey towards growth.
(508) 882-2678 View (508) 882-2678
Photo of Solomon Zinn Hallal, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Solomon Zinn Hallal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Framingham, MA 01701  (Online Only)
i employ ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR & MI as part of a narrative exploration of identity: who are you to you, yr loved ones, the world?.
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
i employ ACT, CBT, DBT, EMDR & MI as part of a narrative exploration of identity: who are you to you, yr loved ones, the world?.
Being alive in 2022 is wild! are you ISO someone to help make meaning of this novel time and place? let’s sit in the strangeness of this moment in time together, feeling through the sad and challenging bits until we can get back into the present, together. i love to talk and hear about gender, expression and relationships, and to learn how experiencing addiction and trauma have made you the beautiful and resilient creature you are today! im a sober body posi fat white southern queer non-binary intersectional feminist polyamorist parent to adopted kids..i bet we have something in common!
(802) 255-8683 View (802) 255-8683
Photo of Jennifer Schneider, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Schneider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Framingham, MA 01701  (Online Only)
My primary therapy method is EMDR.
Hi! I'm Jen, and I am a psychotherapist, seeing individuals and couples via telehealth/video only, with licensure in MA, CA, WA and IN. I offer walk-and-talk in-person therapy in the Central MA/MetroWest area as well. I help those that are polyamorous/ethically non-monogamous, utilizing EMDR for anxiety, depression and trauma-related disorders. I have clinical experience with ADHD, chronic illness, LGBTQIA+ issues, and relationship concerns, as well as perinatal emotional concerns. I also offer EMDR Intensives, so that we may get the work done in fewer sessions!
My primary therapy method is EMDR.
Hi! I'm Jen, and I am a psychotherapist, seeing individuals and couples via telehealth/video only, with licensure in MA, CA, WA and IN. I offer walk-and-talk in-person therapy in the Central MA/MetroWest area as well. I help those that are polyamorous/ethically non-monogamous, utilizing EMDR for anxiety, depression and trauma-related disorders. I have clinical experience with ADHD, chronic illness, LGBTQIA+ issues, and relationship concerns, as well as perinatal emotional concerns. I also offer EMDR Intensives, so that we may get the work done in fewer sessions!
(617) 362-4396 View (617) 362-4396

See more therapy options for Holliston

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.