EMDR Therapists in Natick, MA

Photo of Allie Stefanelli, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allie Stefanelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
I specialize in perinatal/postpartum mental health and trauma. I do so by creating a safe space in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship. It is then that we can explore your personal experience while working to discover and strengthen coping skills to promote resiliency. My work is heavily trauma informed with roots in Attachment work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
I specialize in perinatal/postpartum mental health and trauma. I do so by creating a safe space in order to build a strong therapeutic relationship. It is then that we can explore your personal experience while working to discover and strengthen coping skills to promote resiliency. My work is heavily trauma informed with roots in Attachment work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Psychodynamic Therapy.
(508) 731-2766 View (508) 731-2766
Photo of Jennifer F Wiech-Delaney, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer F Wiech-Delaney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Not accepting new clients
I offer the following specialized interventions: Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, DBT-informed treatment, Y-CBT, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Emotional Freedom Technique, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Family Systems, and a Liberation Health approach to therapy.
Practice is full - will begin accepting new clients in August, 2024. This 6-8 session approach to couple therapy will incorporate techniques from Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, Relational Life Therapy, and the Gottman Method to help clients quickly assess and make changes to enhance the quality of their relationships and navigate new challenges that emerge at various life stages. Brief parent counseling can help clients consider how to utilize and adapt their parenting style to fit the unique, developmental needs of their child(ren), particularly those facing social emotional difficulties.
I offer the following specialized interventions: Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, DBT-informed treatment, Y-CBT, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP), Emotional Freedom Technique, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Family Systems, and a Liberation Health approach to therapy.
Practice is full - will begin accepting new clients in August, 2024. This 6-8 session approach to couple therapy will incorporate techniques from Emotionally Focused Couple Therapy, Relational Life Therapy, and the Gottman Method to help clients quickly assess and make changes to enhance the quality of their relationships and navigate new challenges that emerge at various life stages. Brief parent counseling can help clients consider how to utilize and adapt their parenting style to fit the unique, developmental needs of their child(ren), particularly those facing social emotional difficulties.
(508) 213-5534 View (508) 213-5534
Photo of Rita Vatcher, LMHC, MCCS, CAGS, RPT-S, Counselor
Rita Vatcher
Counselor, LMHC, MCCS, CAGS, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Waitlist for new clients
Interventions include art therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, and EMDR.
I love to work with kids and adolescents and their families. I believe people don't have "problems" but rather "challenges" they learn to move through or re-frame. Together we learn new ways of doing things; new ways of looking at things; find a new path of our own choosing that feels better than the one we were on; relate to ourselves and others in a healthier way; learn to smile and laugh more; find the things we are good at doing; make a contribution; stress less; be who we are meant to be, and love who we are as a person!
Interventions include art therapy, sand tray, mindfulness, and EMDR.
I love to work with kids and adolescents and their families. I believe people don't have "problems" but rather "challenges" they learn to move through or re-frame. Together we learn new ways of doing things; new ways of looking at things; find a new path of our own choosing that feels better than the one we were on; relate to ourselves and others in a healthier way; learn to smile and laugh more; find the things we are good at doing; make a contribution; stress less; be who we are meant to be, and love who we are as a person!
(508) 471-3442 View (508) 471-3442
Photo of Starr Potts, MA, MSW, LICSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Starr Potts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Not accepting new clients
Informed by holistic approaches (EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Energy Psych, Hypnotherapy and Psychospiritual work), through coaching, together we can discover and find relief for what discourages and help you live your best dreams.
Looking for a life coach? Are you hopeful but overwhelmed. Yearning for a sense of meaning and ways to feel more connected, balanced, or be of service? Ready to address what blocks you, let go of those limiting beliefs, and weave the dreams you want to live? Through mind-body coaching, structured dream coaching, or psycho spiritual and constellations work, together we identify your goals, build better coping strategies, and turn blocks into resources. Clients say they appreciate the space, humor, structure and clear permission to re-discover their essence, transform wounds and move forward.
Informed by holistic approaches (EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Energy Psych, Hypnotherapy and Psychospiritual work), through coaching, together we can discover and find relief for what discourages and help you live your best dreams.
Looking for a life coach? Are you hopeful but overwhelmed. Yearning for a sense of meaning and ways to feel more connected, balanced, or be of service? Ready to address what blocks you, let go of those limiting beliefs, and weave the dreams you want to live? Through mind-body coaching, structured dream coaching, or psycho spiritual and constellations work, together we identify your goals, build better coping strategies, and turn blocks into resources. Clients say they appreciate the space, humor, structure and clear permission to re-discover their essence, transform wounds and move forward.
(508) 812-0979 View (508) 812-0979
Photo of Madeline Waife, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeline Waife
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am intensively trained in EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Welcome! I am an LICSW in private practice (currently telehealth only) seeing adults for individual therapy. I am most passionate about working with individuals struggling with symptoms related to interpersonal trauma and reducing shame and stigma around these experiences. In addition, I specialize in perinatal mental health disorders, individuals going through relationship changes/transitions, college-age/young adults, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+.
I am intensively trained in EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Welcome! I am an LICSW in private practice (currently telehealth only) seeing adults for individual therapy. I am most passionate about working with individuals struggling with symptoms related to interpersonal trauma and reducing shame and stigma around these experiences. In addition, I specialize in perinatal mental health disorders, individuals going through relationship changes/transitions, college-age/young adults, and those who identify as LGBTQIA+.
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Photo of Erin Lemire, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Lemire
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Not accepting new clients
I have had training in the most advanced treatment of anxiety, stress and trauma including EMDR, Sensorimotor/body-based therapies, and attachment-based psychotherapies.
I believe that therapy is a journey that takes place in a safe and collaborative space between therapist and client. Within that space, I use a warm, supportive, curious and empathic approach to guide our work as we look at current and past stressors that may be causing you to feel "stuck" in various aspects of your life. Together, we can work to identify your inner strengths and resources that will aid you in managing current stressors, work through past events, and move towards health and healing. Specializations include: PTSD/Complex PTSD, Anxiety/Stress, Dissociation, Sexual Assault/Abuse, and relationship/adjustment challenges.
I have had training in the most advanced treatment of anxiety, stress and trauma including EMDR, Sensorimotor/body-based therapies, and attachment-based psychotherapies.
I believe that therapy is a journey that takes place in a safe and collaborative space between therapist and client. Within that space, I use a warm, supportive, curious and empathic approach to guide our work as we look at current and past stressors that may be causing you to feel "stuck" in various aspects of your life. Together, we can work to identify your inner strengths and resources that will aid you in managing current stressors, work through past events, and move towards health and healing. Specializations include: PTSD/Complex PTSD, Anxiety/Stress, Dissociation, Sexual Assault/Abuse, and relationship/adjustment challenges.
(201) 676-9743 View (201) 676-9743
Photo of Vita R Golub-Ginsburg, LMHC, MEd, Counselor
Vita R Golub-Ginsburg
Counselor, LMHC, MEd
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Not accepting new clients
I utilize a variety of evidence-based strategies in my work including EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, Guided Imagery, Hypnosis, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), solution -focused approaches and insight oriented techniques.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with two decades of experience helping young adults and adults successfully overcome problems such as life transitions, stress, trauma or substance abuse. I have extensive expertise in helping people courageously face obstacles and learn the cognitive and social emotional skills needed to navigate life successfully. My goal is to help clients find a path to move beyond their worries, highlighting and encouraging them to see, develop and utilize their inner strengths.
I utilize a variety of evidence-based strategies in my work including EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, Guided Imagery, Hypnosis, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), solution -focused approaches and insight oriented techniques.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with two decades of experience helping young adults and adults successfully overcome problems such as life transitions, stress, trauma or substance abuse. I have extensive expertise in helping people courageously face obstacles and learn the cognitive and social emotional skills needed to navigate life successfully. My goal is to help clients find a path to move beyond their worries, highlighting and encouraging them to see, develop and utilize their inner strengths.
(339) 217-7874 View (339) 217-7874
Photo of Cara Marolda, LMHC, Counselor
Cara Marolda
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760  (Online Only)
I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained.
Everyone experiences distressing or overwhelming challenges at different points in life. Many people struggle to manage these inevitable difficulties, get stuck and then subsequently feel defined by their emotional pain. This can negatively impact relationships, ambitions, work and self-worth. I believe in people’s inherent right to live meaningful and joyful lives and in their ability to choose how to respond to life’s challenges. I support my clients through their courageous process of self-exploration and self-compassion.
I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained.
Everyone experiences distressing or overwhelming challenges at different points in life. Many people struggle to manage these inevitable difficulties, get stuck and then subsequently feel defined by their emotional pain. This can negatively impact relationships, ambitions, work and self-worth. I believe in people’s inherent right to live meaningful and joyful lives and in their ability to choose how to respond to life’s challenges. I support my clients through their courageous process of self-exploration and self-compassion.
(508) 433-3614 View (508) 433-3614
Photo of Kimberly Snapper, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Snapper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760  (Online Only)
I'm a licensed clinical social worker and certified coach and believe that at our core, we are resilient and possess the strength and power needed to live our best lives. But sometimes we need help. Life may present us with curve balls and feel bumpy and hard at times. Whether you’re feeling stuck in your personal life or professionally, l am here to partner with you to find clarity and a sense of relief. My work draws on Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), trauma theory (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
I'm a licensed clinical social worker and certified coach and believe that at our core, we are resilient and possess the strength and power needed to live our best lives. But sometimes we need help. Life may present us with curve balls and feel bumpy and hard at times. Whether you’re feeling stuck in your personal life or professionally, l am here to partner with you to find clarity and a sense of relief. My work draws on Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), trauma theory (EMDR) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
(339) 201-6524 View (339) 201-6524
Photo of Larissa Crane - Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, RYT, MSW, LICSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Larissa Crane, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Natick, MA 01760
I am a certified EMDR therapist.
I believe that it takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore attitudes and beliefs /patterns that get in the way of accomplishing your full potential and engaging fully in life. I utilize a more holistic, mind-body approach to treatment, weaving together techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, mindfulness/acceptance, and yoga therapy to connect you with your "true, inner self", something which we often lose touch with as we go about our lives in this often fast-paced, unpredictable and stressful world. I am also certified in EMDR (www.emdria.org)
I am a certified EMDR therapist.
I believe that it takes strength and courage to seek therapy. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space to explore attitudes and beliefs /patterns that get in the way of accomplishing your full potential and engaging fully in life. I utilize a more holistic, mind-body approach to treatment, weaving together techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, IFS, mindfulness/acceptance, and yoga therapy to connect you with your "true, inner self", something which we often lose touch with as we go about our lives in this often fast-paced, unpredictable and stressful world. I am also certified in EMDR (www.emdria.org)
(508) 659-4613 View (508) 659-4613
Photo of Elena Crisp, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elena Crisp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760  (Online Only)
Welcome. It takes courage to start therapy. As you enter this process of exploring yourself, I can offer expert guidance to help you untangle the messiness of life and move forward with greater authenticity and fulfillment. My approach to therapy focuses on building a trusting and interactive relationship that offers a safe place to explore and uncover truths with clarity. I offer empathy, curiosity, humor and accountability to foster collaboration and hope. I deeply believe in one's resiliency and my goal is always to help my clients more clearly see their innate strengths as the building blocks for change.
Welcome. It takes courage to start therapy. As you enter this process of exploring yourself, I can offer expert guidance to help you untangle the messiness of life and move forward with greater authenticity and fulfillment. My approach to therapy focuses on building a trusting and interactive relationship that offers a safe place to explore and uncover truths with clarity. I offer empathy, curiosity, humor and accountability to foster collaboration and hope. I deeply believe in one's resiliency and my goal is always to help my clients more clearly see their innate strengths as the building blocks for change.
(508) 500-8831 View (508) 500-8831
Photo of Carmel Higgins, LCSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carmel Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MEd
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Hi and welcome! I’m so glad you’re seeking support. I help clients navigate the stressors of life, including life transitions, anxiety, relational issues, grief, and trauma. I also have extensive experience working with perinatal mental health concerns, including infertility, pregnancy loss or termination, and birth trauma. I utilize varied modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-based therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I deeply value developing a therapeutic relationship that results in you feeling seen and understood, and that helps you improve your emotional health.
Hi and welcome! I’m so glad you’re seeking support. I help clients navigate the stressors of life, including life transitions, anxiety, relational issues, grief, and trauma. I also have extensive experience working with perinatal mental health concerns, including infertility, pregnancy loss or termination, and birth trauma. I utilize varied modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-based therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I deeply value developing a therapeutic relationship that results in you feeling seen and understood, and that helps you improve your emotional health.
(508) 978-3825 View (508) 978-3825
Handel Behavioral Health
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Mental health issues affect everyone and can hinder our ability to function in important aspects of life. Some of us are struggling to process a loss, trauma, a life transition, or an illness. Some of us are feeling anxious and depressed, but we are unsure of the cause. When we keep repeating the same patterns that don’t serve us anymore, it can be difficult to move forward. Fortunately, you don’t have to go about your days feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and alone in your experiences.
Mental health issues affect everyone and can hinder our ability to function in important aspects of life. Some of us are struggling to process a loss, trauma, a life transition, or an illness. Some of us are feeling anxious and depressed, but we are unsure of the cause. When we keep repeating the same patterns that don’t serve us anymore, it can be difficult to move forward. Fortunately, you don’t have to go about your days feeling overwhelmed, stuck, and alone in your experiences.
(508) 905-5991 View (508) 905-5991
DCS Mental Health Inc
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Natick, MA 01760
Are you feeling stressed? Anxious? Experiencing conflict in relationships? Sometimes life can be such a struggle that even sleeping through the night is a challenge. Emotions can swing from one extreme to another from all the pressure and life can feel too overwhelming to handle on your own. Seeking out help is a sign of strength. At DCS Mental Health, we can provide the effective treatment and support your need to feel balance in your life. Our multi-disciplinary staff of psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical nurse specialists, social workers, and counselors are experienced and highly trained in a wide spectrum of clients’ needs.
Are you feeling stressed? Anxious? Experiencing conflict in relationships? Sometimes life can be such a struggle that even sleeping through the night is a challenge. Emotions can swing from one extreme to another from all the pressure and life can feel too overwhelming to handle on your own. Seeking out help is a sign of strength. At DCS Mental Health, we can provide the effective treatment and support your need to feel balance in your life. Our multi-disciplinary staff of psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical nurse specialists, social workers, and counselors are experienced and highly trained in a wide spectrum of clients’ needs.
(781) 384-5041 View (781) 384-5041

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Selina Lang, LMHC, Counselor
Selina Lang
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
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 Carol A McCoin, LICSW, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol A McCoin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
Framingham, MA 01701
I see adults individually, in couples and with families. I am also on a preferred provider list for a local Mother's group. My style is very eclectic, but I believe in a variety of theories based on the needs of my clients. I treat people who are dealing with depression, bi-polar and anxiety and am trained in trauma and using EMDR. I have extensive experience in treating people who are in recovery for alcohol abuse and I believe in the AA model.
I see adults individually, in couples and with families. I am also on a preferred provider list for a local Mother's group. My style is very eclectic, but I believe in a variety of theories based on the needs of my clients. I treat people who are dealing with depression, bi-polar and anxiety and am trained in trauma and using EMDR. I have extensive experience in treating people who are in recovery for alcohol abuse and I believe in the AA model.
(508) 213-4740 View (508) 213-4740
Photo of Kelly Clancy, LMHC, Counselor
Kelly Clancy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wellesley, MA 02482
To support my clients in finding their best set of coping skills, I often uses breath work along with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatments in my practice.
My goal is to help individuals find their own joy, acceptance, and peace through talk therapy and mindfulness practices. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults and adults going through difficult transitional periods in life, anxiety,OCD, depression, and PTSD. My approach is deeply rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practices, aimed at fostering resilience and empowerment. I believe that you are capable of change and confidence, and through our conversations and exercises, your inner power will feels easier to access.
To support my clients in finding their best set of coping skills, I often uses breath work along with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) treatments in my practice.
My goal is to help individuals find their own joy, acceptance, and peace through talk therapy and mindfulness practices. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults and adults going through difficult transitional periods in life, anxiety,OCD, depression, and PTSD. My approach is deeply rooted in empathy, understanding, and evidence-based practices, aimed at fostering resilience and empowerment. I believe that you are capable of change and confidence, and through our conversations and exercises, your inner power will feels easier to access.
(774) 355-3711 View (774) 355-3711
Photo of Mary (Mimi) Young Sa, PsyD, MSCP, ABMP, Psychologist
Mary (Mimi) Young Sa
Psychologist, PsyD, MSCP, ABMP
Verified Verified
Framingham, MA 01702
Working with clients from ethnic minority groups is my passion; especially Brazilians, Latinos and Native Americans. Having experienced being an immigrant myself while living in Brazil, I am very aware of the unique difficulties facing newly arrived immigrants. Individuals needing assistance with school difficulties, parenting concerns, family conflict, marital discord, or functionally impairing mental health symptoms are my ideal client.
Working with clients from ethnic minority groups is my passion; especially Brazilians, Latinos and Native Americans. Having experienced being an immigrant myself while living in Brazil, I am very aware of the unique difficulties facing newly arrived immigrants. Individuals needing assistance with school difficulties, parenting concerns, family conflict, marital discord, or functionally impairing mental health symptoms are my ideal client.
(508) 504-1132 View (508) 504-1132
Photo of Brandon Jones, PhD, LMHC, Counselor
Brandon Jones
Counselor, PhD, LMHC
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Framingham, MA 01701
Do you hate being touched by your partner? Do you feel misunderstood and now you are worried that your partner is starting to resent you? Ever since that awful event, do you feel distant or disconnected because you can’t get disturbing images out of your head? These are common reactions to awful or overwhelming experiences. The good news is that they can improve with the right support. I help young and not-so-young adults learn the skills they need to turn down the volume on overwhelming emotions and reconnect with their loved ones.
Do you hate being touched by your partner? Do you feel misunderstood and now you are worried that your partner is starting to resent you? Ever since that awful event, do you feel distant or disconnected because you can’t get disturbing images out of your head? These are common reactions to awful or overwhelming experiences. The good news is that they can improve with the right support. I help young and not-so-young adults learn the skills they need to turn down the volume on overwhelming emotions and reconnect with their loved ones.
(774) 462-5882 View (774) 462-5882
Photo of David Raniere - David Raniere, Ph.D., Psychologist
David Raniere, Ph.D.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Framingham, MA 01701
My practice is devoted to creating a reflective space where individuals can make fuller contact with who they are and actively stretch beyond the limits of what they can do alone. Attention to one's inner life requires respect and courage, and fosters greater understanding, healing, growth, and the making of a more fulfilling life. The changes my patients seek to make include several dimensions. Improvements are often sought with respect to painfully familiar habits of thought, feeling, and action (or inaction). These are often longstanding burdens that one has carried for quite some time.
My practice is devoted to creating a reflective space where individuals can make fuller contact with who they are and actively stretch beyond the limits of what they can do alone. Attention to one's inner life requires respect and courage, and fosters greater understanding, healing, growth, and the making of a more fulfilling life. The changes my patients seek to make include several dimensions. Improvements are often sought with respect to painfully familiar habits of thought, feeling, and action (or inaction). These are often longstanding burdens that one has carried for quite some time.
(617) 682-9107 View (617) 682-9107
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.