EMDR Therapists in Lincoln, MA

Photo of Catherine Harvey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
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.
(339) 233-4661 View (339) 233-4661
Photo of Janet Read, LMHC, Counselor
Janet Read
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
If you’re here, you’re looking for help with something that's going on for you in your life. Maybe you’re looking for support as you navigate a transition, mourn a loss, or face a challenge. Or maybe something has been affecting you or your relationships, or keeping you stuck, and you're unsure of how to get to a better place. You may even have tried therapy before, but didn’t find it as helpful as you’d hoped, and you might be worried you can’t be helped. Or maybe personal development and self-understanding are important to you, and you welcome therapy as a part of your growth and evolution.
If you’re here, you’re looking for help with something that's going on for you in your life. Maybe you’re looking for support as you navigate a transition, mourn a loss, or face a challenge. Or maybe something has been affecting you or your relationships, or keeping you stuck, and you're unsure of how to get to a better place. You may even have tried therapy before, but didn’t find it as helpful as you’d hoped, and you might be worried you can’t be helped. Or maybe personal development and self-understanding are important to you, and you welcome therapy as a part of your growth and evolution.
(978) 643-9629 View (978) 643-9629
Photo of Cassandra Donner, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cassandra Donner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, eating disorders and body image, & sexual health. My ideal client is anyone who comes to me ready to engage in the real work of therapy. Someone looking for guidance, connection, and relentless support. Someone who wants to change something about their inner experience so they can show up differently for the people in their lives and have a positive ripple effect on the world.
I specialize in trauma and PTSD, eating disorders and body image, & sexual health. My ideal client is anyone who comes to me ready to engage in the real work of therapy. Someone looking for guidance, connection, and relentless support. Someone who wants to change something about their inner experience so they can show up differently for the people in their lives and have a positive ripple effect on the world.
(339) 255-1700 View (339) 255-1700
Photo of Matthew Krieger, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Krieger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
My ideal client wants to live according to their values and aspirations, but they feel stuck. They don't know how to get where they want to go. They might be having some negative thoughts about themselves. They may feel on edge, jump to the worst possible conclusions, or think people are judging them. They often want to be able to do many things that they've been avoiding. Accomplishing these things is important to them because it helps them feel in control of their lives.
My ideal client wants to live according to their values and aspirations, but they feel stuck. They don't know how to get where they want to go. They might be having some negative thoughts about themselves. They may feel on edge, jump to the worst possible conclusions, or think people are judging them. They often want to be able to do many things that they've been avoiding. Accomplishing these things is important to them because it helps them feel in control of their lives.
(339) 229-9619 View (339) 229-9619
Photo of Diana Cofsky, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lincoln, MA 01773
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(339) 220-2619 View (339) 220-2619

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of William B Jaffee, PhD, LLC, Psychologist
William B Jaffee
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02421  (Online Only)
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, mood and substance use disorders in adults and young adults. I am also certified in EMDR. While a grounding in the science of treatment informs all of my work, compassion and empathy are at its foundation. I am a Clinical Instructor of Psychology at the Harvard Medical School and Clinical Associate of Psychology at McLean Hospital.
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, mood and substance use disorders in adults and young adults. I am also certified in EMDR. While a grounding in the science of treatment informs all of my work, compassion and empathy are at its foundation. I am a Clinical Instructor of Psychology at the Harvard Medical School and Clinical Associate of Psychology at McLean Hospital.
(617) 446-3239 View (617) 446-3239
Photo of Laura McLaughlin, LMFT, LMHC, CEIP-MH, Counselor
Laura McLaughlin
Counselor, LMFT, LMHC, CEIP-MH
Verified Verified
Billerica, MA 01821
My interests include clinical supervision, consultation, EMDR, neurofeedback, clinical hypnosis, meditation, EMDR & psychotherapy with equine interaction.
For over 25 years, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in residential, community, home-based, outpatient, farm and nature based settings. My passion for helping in partnership with my love of horses led me to psychotherapy with equine interaction and EMDR with equine interaction. Although I value, respect and integrate a variety of techniques, I find myself astounded by the horses' ability to ground us in the moment and reflect we need to see. Within this reflection emerges a powerful awareness that can promote new opportunities for insight, understanding and freedom from burdens and traumas previously inaccessible.
My interests include clinical supervision, consultation, EMDR, neurofeedback, clinical hypnosis, meditation, EMDR & psychotherapy with equine interaction.
For over 25 years, I have worked with children, adolescents and adults in residential, community, home-based, outpatient, farm and nature based settings. My passion for helping in partnership with my love of horses led me to psychotherapy with equine interaction and EMDR with equine interaction. Although I value, respect and integrate a variety of techniques, I find myself astounded by the horses' ability to ground us in the moment and reflect we need to see. Within this reflection emerges a powerful awareness that can promote new opportunities for insight, understanding and freedom from burdens and traumas previously inaccessible.
(978) 528-3316 View (978) 528-3316
Photo of Aline P Zoldbrod, PhD, AASECT, Psychologist
Aline P Zoldbrod
Psychologist, PhD, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woburn, MA 01801
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 Mary Curlew, LICSW  , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Curlew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, MA 01730
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Maine and Massachusetts with over 20 years experience providing therapy for individuals and groups. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT and have benefitted personally and professionally from mindfulness practices, including trauma-informed yoga and contemplative prayer. In addition, I am a certified Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide and spiritual director. I offer not only evidence-based therapy techniques but also a deep connection to spiritual and wisdom practices for growth and healing.
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Maine and Massachusetts with over 20 years experience providing therapy for individuals and groups. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT and have benefitted personally and professionally from mindfulness practices, including trauma-informed yoga and contemplative prayer. In addition, I am a certified Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide and spiritual director. I offer not only evidence-based therapy techniques but also a deep connection to spiritual and wisdom practices for growth and healing.
(855) 394-4526 View (855) 394-4526
Photo of Katherine McHugh, E-RYT, LMHC, LADCI, CPS, C-IAYT, Counselor
Katherine McHugh
Counselor, E-RYT, LMHC, LADCI, CPS, C-IAYT
Verified Verified
Belmont, MA 02478
Kate is a dually licensed LMHC and LADCI clinician with masters level advanced degrees in both Business and Counseling. After receiving her undergraduate degree from the College of the Holy Cross, Kate began a career in life coaching and fitness, and later expanded her work into the clinical realm. Currently, she offers professional psychotherapy, corporate consultation, health coaching & yoga therapy (complemented by her training in mind-body techniques, including: Ayurveda, Yoga, EMDR, Somatic Therapies, Integrated Health, Nutrition & Mindfulness). It is her intention to support clients in living well, using solution focused, strength based counseling approaches.
Kate is a dually licensed LMHC and LADCI clinician with masters level advanced degrees in both Business and Counseling. After receiving her undergraduate degree from the College of the Holy Cross, Kate began a career in life coaching and fitness, and later expanded her work into the clinical realm. Currently, she offers professional psychotherapy, corporate consultation, health coaching & yoga therapy (complemented by her training in mind-body techniques, including: Ayurveda, Yoga, EMDR, Somatic Therapies, Integrated Health, Nutrition & Mindfulness). It is her intention to support clients in living well, using solution focused, strength based counseling approaches.
(508) 434-5117 View (508) 434-5117
Photo of Courtney Scott - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Watertown, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Watertown
Counselor
Verified Verified
Watertown, MA 02472
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Solomon Zinn Hallal, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Solomon Zinn Hallal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, MA 01803  (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 Nathalie Paquette, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nathalie Paquette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lexington, MA 02420  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which is very effective for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD and many other obstacles.
Transparency, humor, and compassion are all parts of my therapeutic style, and collaborating with clients during times of struggle, contemplation or transition is what I enjoy most. I am a white, heterosexual, cisgender therapist based in the Framingham area, and I am committed to acknowledging the ways that systemic oppression impacts individuals and groups, and to having open and honest conversations with my clients as well as supporting their healing.
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which is very effective for individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD and many other obstacles.
Transparency, humor, and compassion are all parts of my therapeutic style, and collaborating with clients during times of struggle, contemplation or transition is what I enjoy most. I am a white, heterosexual, cisgender therapist based in the Framingham area, and I am committed to acknowledging the ways that systemic oppression impacts individuals and groups, and to having open and honest conversations with my clients as well as supporting their healing.
(508) 938-8801 View (508) 938-8801
Photo of Ireneusz Sielski, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ireneusz Sielski
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
I use an eclectic approach, incorporating EMDR, Family Systems Theory, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, and other methods.
Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with expertise in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I work with individuals, couples, and families, drawing on experience with clients from the US and Europe. Licensed in MA and CT. (Note: I accept Tufts insurance with exception of Tufts Health Direct, Tufts Together, Tufts Unify – also called OneCare)
I use an eclectic approach, incorporating EMDR, Family Systems Theory, Gestalt, Motivational Interviewing, and other methods.
Hello, I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with expertise in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. I work with individuals, couples, and families, drawing on experience with clients from the US and Europe. Licensed in MA and CT. (Note: I accept Tufts insurance with exception of Tufts Health Direct, Tufts Together, Tufts Unify – also called OneCare)
(508) 501-0561 View (508) 501-0561
Photo of Dr. April Berry-Fletcher, LICSW, EdD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. April Berry-Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EdD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02465
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 Sarenna Rosario, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sarenna Rosario
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02456  (Online Only)
Central to my approach is a dedication to promoting whole health and well-being, underlined by continuous education and specializations, including trauma-informed cognitive therapy, EMDR, integrated behavioral medicine, and an emphasis on the mind-body connection.
I approach each individual in a unique and authentic way. Treatment, therefore, is specific to you. Our work together will promote healing through awareness of needs, self-compassion towards individual strengths and limitations, acceptance and tolerance to things out of your control. Most importantly I work towards learning self-advocacy, and improving communications with others. Our work will strengthen skills to improve your relationship with yourself and with others.
Central to my approach is a dedication to promoting whole health and well-being, underlined by continuous education and specializations, including trauma-informed cognitive therapy, EMDR, integrated behavioral medicine, and an emphasis on the mind-body connection.
I approach each individual in a unique and authentic way. Treatment, therefore, is specific to you. Our work together will promote healing through awareness of needs, self-compassion towards individual strengths and limitations, acceptance and tolerance to things out of your control. Most importantly I work towards learning self-advocacy, and improving communications with others. Our work will strengthen skills to improve your relationship with yourself and with others.
(774) 484-1255 View (774) 484-1255
Photo of Carita Anderson - Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality, PhD
Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality
PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
Whether it is talk therapy, journaling, homework assignments, Imago therapy, mindfulness or somatic treatments like EMDR and Brainspotting, we work together with you to find what helps you best.
At Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality, we recognize that while all humans struggle with one issue or another, at one time or another, it can be difficult to seek help and support. Expectations that you might have of yourself or expectations that you think or KNOW others have of you can really weigh you down when life gets busy. Sometimes you know exactly what you need help with, and other times, things just don't feel right and you just aren't sure what kind of help you need. Our clinicians will listen, ask good questions, and look at problems with you to figure out how to get you back on the path where you want to be. We work with individuals and committed couples, as well as those practicing consensual non-monagamy. While communication skills and sexuality issues are a significant part of our clientele, we also work with many patients with depression, anxiety, or grief as their presenting complaint.
Whether it is talk therapy, journaling, homework assignments, Imago therapy, mindfulness or somatic treatments like EMDR and Brainspotting, we work together with you to find what helps you best.
At Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality, we recognize that while all humans struggle with one issue or another, at one time or another, it can be difficult to seek help and support. Expectations that you might have of yourself or expectations that you think or KNOW others have of you can really weigh you down when life gets busy. Sometimes you know exactly what you need help with, and other times, things just don't feel right and you just aren't sure what kind of help you need. Our clinicians will listen, ask good questions, and look at problems with you to figure out how to get you back on the path where you want to be. We work with individuals and committed couples, as well as those practicing consensual non-monagamy. While communication skills and sexuality issues are a significant part of our clientele, we also work with many patients with depression, anxiety, or grief as their presenting complaint.
(781) 539-9219 View (781) 539-9219
Photo of Erin Vandersteen, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Vandersteen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Waltham, MA 02453  (Online Only)
I can offer CBT, DBT, EMDR as modalities or skills.
Hi, My name is Erin! I love to work with clients from ages 13 and older. I have various interests, but I am looking for clients seeking therapeutic support through life transitions, and are looking to better themselves through processing and coping skills. Therapy as a need is different for everyone, and I am open to hearing what your needs are, and seeing if we could be the best fit.
I can offer CBT, DBT, EMDR as modalities or skills.
Hi, My name is Erin! I love to work with clients from ages 13 and older. I have various interests, but I am looking for clients seeking therapeutic support through life transitions, and are looking to better themselves through processing and coping skills. Therapy as a need is different for everyone, and I am open to hearing what your needs are, and seeing if we could be the best fit.
(617) 272-7230 View (617) 272-7230
Photo of Sharon Manning, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sharon Manning
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Concord, MA 01742  (Online Only)
Life is filled with challenging events that can push us beyond our limits. These moments can either propel us toward growth or leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and disconnected. I bring 17 years of experience in the field and helping people navigate these challenges. I am well-versed in various therapeutic modalities, primarily utilizing a combination of IFS, EMDR, CBT and transpersonal approaches. The goal is to help you regain your balance, foster resilience, and learn how to tap into your innate inner healing capacity during difficult times.
Life is filled with challenging events that can push us beyond our limits. These moments can either propel us toward growth or leave us feeling stuck, overwhelmed, and disconnected. I bring 17 years of experience in the field and helping people navigate these challenges. I am well-versed in various therapeutic modalities, primarily utilizing a combination of IFS, EMDR, CBT and transpersonal approaches. The goal is to help you regain your balance, foster resilience, and learn how to tap into your innate inner healing capacity during difficult times.
(617) 658-4749 View (617) 658-4749
Photo of Meg Savin, LMHC, Counselor
Meg Savin
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476
Depending on your needs, I use variety of therapeutic modalities & approaches including EMDR, ACT, CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing & relational psychology while always considering the greater context of your current struggles and how oppression or discrimination may be contributing to those struggles.
In-person (Arlington) or telehealth sessions available! You may be experiencing challenges moving in a desired direction in your life or perhaps noticing patterns in your current behavior or relationships that you would like to change. I feel fortunate to work in a field where I witness healing change every day, and it is a privilege to hear your unique story. With experience working in a number of diverse settings including community mental health, offering group therapy, working with college counseling centers, as well as on a rape crisis hotline, I bring an active and warm approach to therapy.
Depending on your needs, I use variety of therapeutic modalities & approaches including EMDR, ACT, CBT, mindfulness, motivational interviewing & relational psychology while always considering the greater context of your current struggles and how oppression or discrimination may be contributing to those struggles.
In-person (Arlington) or telehealth sessions available! You may be experiencing challenges moving in a desired direction in your life or perhaps noticing patterns in your current behavior or relationships that you would like to change. I feel fortunate to work in a field where I witness healing change every day, and it is a privilege to hear your unique story. With experience working in a number of diverse settings including community mental health, offering group therapy, working with college counseling centers, as well as on a rape crisis hotline, I bring an active and warm approach to therapy.
(339) 209-2663 View (339) 209-2663

See more therapy options for Lincoln

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.