EMDR Therapists in New Bedford, MA

Photo of Caroline Mazzei, LMHC, Counselor
Caroline Mazzei
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bedford, MA 02740
Waitlist for new clients
We can work together to build skills with CBT/DBT, use EMDR when appropriate & utilize self-compassion to foster a supportive relationship with yourself.
For all of us, life can present us with unexpected challenges and transitions. These periods can be filled with overwhelming emotions and sometimes activate old wounds from our past. Starting a new therapeutic relationship can be a big step towards addressing what is happening and where you’d like to be. Let’s begin a collaborative journey to talk about what you are going through & identify your goals. We will bring mindfulness and curiosity to your experience in order to help you feel better. I highlight the interplay of our emotional health with our physical bodies, social environment & spiritual identity.
We can work together to build skills with CBT/DBT, use EMDR when appropriate & utilize self-compassion to foster a supportive relationship with yourself.
For all of us, life can present us with unexpected challenges and transitions. These periods can be filled with overwhelming emotions and sometimes activate old wounds from our past. Starting a new therapeutic relationship can be a big step towards addressing what is happening and where you’d like to be. Let’s begin a collaborative journey to talk about what you are going through & identify your goals. We will bring mindfulness and curiosity to your experience in order to help you feel better. I highlight the interplay of our emotional health with our physical bodies, social environment & spiritual identity.
(774) 268-3963 View (774) 268-3963
Photo of Tracy Halle, LMHC, Counselor
Tracy Halle
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bedford, MA 02740  (Online Only)
Welcome! My ideal client is someone who wants to gradually peel the layers that lead to the root of underlying issues that cause anxiety, PTSD and depression. I offer therapy from an attachment and trauma informed lens and integrate a variety of approaches including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Attachment Focused/Inner Child Healing using Ego State therapy (Parts' work). My style is Eclectic in that I often use CBT, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment, Psychodynamic (exploring past painful experiences often found in childhood and connecting them to present day distress) to heal emotional wounds.
Welcome! My ideal client is someone who wants to gradually peel the layers that lead to the root of underlying issues that cause anxiety, PTSD and depression. I offer therapy from an attachment and trauma informed lens and integrate a variety of approaches including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Attachment Focused/Inner Child Healing using Ego State therapy (Parts' work). My style is Eclectic in that I often use CBT, DBT, Acceptance and Commitment, Psychodynamic (exploring past painful experiences often found in childhood and connecting them to present day distress) to heal emotional wounds.
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Healing Trauma Center Inc
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740
We provide EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), IFS (internal family systems), grief counseling, ERP (exposure relapse prevention for OCD).
Our purpose is to provide a healing pathway! We support clients on their journey to healing with an individualistic holistic approach. Clients receive for support for a variety of stressors, such as trauma of any kind, anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, OCD, PTSD, C-PTSD, abuse of any kind, domestic violence, parenting stressors, grief and loss, sexual stressors, and emotional regulation. We work with individuals across the lifespan including couples, children, adolescents, families and group therapy. We also support first responder, military personnel and veterans and persons of all races and sexual orientations.
We provide EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), IFS (internal family systems), grief counseling, ERP (exposure relapse prevention for OCD).
Our purpose is to provide a healing pathway! We support clients on their journey to healing with an individualistic holistic approach. Clients receive for support for a variety of stressors, such as trauma of any kind, anxiety, depression, relationship stressors, OCD, PTSD, C-PTSD, abuse of any kind, domestic violence, parenting stressors, grief and loss, sexual stressors, and emotional regulation. We work with individuals across the lifespan including couples, children, adolescents, families and group therapy. We also support first responder, military personnel and veterans and persons of all races and sexual orientations.
(508) 978-6790 View (508) 978-6790
Photo of Jessica Hanson, MS, LMFT, LADC1, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Hanson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LADC1
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740  (Online Only)
Trained in EMDR, DBT, CBT, Family Therapy and Group Therapy.
Now accepting MBHP/Mass Health. In my practice, I strive to provide a nurturing and accepting environment where clients have autonomy and feel safe to express themselves without judgment. I utilize techniques that empower and cultivate hope. Much of my experience is working with trauma and addictive patterns of behavior. I utilize motivational interviewing techniques in conjunction with CBT to uncover and change unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior. It is often the lies we believe about ourselves and situations that keep us stuck and prevent progress.
Trained in EMDR, DBT, CBT, Family Therapy and Group Therapy.
Now accepting MBHP/Mass Health. In my practice, I strive to provide a nurturing and accepting environment where clients have autonomy and feel safe to express themselves without judgment. I utilize techniques that empower and cultivate hope. Much of my experience is working with trauma and addictive patterns of behavior. I utilize motivational interviewing techniques in conjunction with CBT to uncover and change unhealthy patterns of thinking and behavior. It is often the lies we believe about ourselves and situations that keep us stuck and prevent progress.
(508) 484-8379 View (508) 484-8379
Photo of Jill LeBrun, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jill LeBrun
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bedford, MA 02745
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) through the Trauma Institute and I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed therapist.
I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth. I am dedicated to supporting individuals who face challenges such as interpersonal conflict, anxiety, depression, and complex trauma. I believe that you are the expert of your own story, and therapy can guide you in rediscovering hope and regaining control over your life, allowing you to reclaim the life you deserve. By adopting a holistic approach, I focus on the entire individual to restore balance among the mind, body, and soul.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) through the Trauma Institute and I am an Internal Family Systems (IFS) informed therapist.
I earned my Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology from the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth. I am dedicated to supporting individuals who face challenges such as interpersonal conflict, anxiety, depression, and complex trauma. I believe that you are the expert of your own story, and therapy can guide you in rediscovering hope and regaining control over your life, allowing you to reclaim the life you deserve. By adopting a holistic approach, I focus on the entire individual to restore balance among the mind, body, and soul.
(508) 952-9361 View (508) 952-9361
Photo of Autumn Prior, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Autumn Prior
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740
Waitlist for new clients
As a Consultant in Training, I am able to help you to improve AIP conceptualization, engage in EMDR more efficiently, and am proficient in the DeTur protocol, EMDR 2.
Hello! I am an EMDR Consultant in Training (mentored by Deany Laliotis, LICSW) and a Certified EMDR Therapist! I offer consultation at a reduced rate to therapists who have been through EMDR basic training and are looking for additional support and/or EMDR certification. Furthermore, I use EMDR in treating clients to quickly and effectively accomplish treatment goals so that you may live your life to the fullest. I provide tools and support to help you along your own personal journey to discover and create your best self.
As a Consultant in Training, I am able to help you to improve AIP conceptualization, engage in EMDR more efficiently, and am proficient in the DeTur protocol, EMDR 2.
Hello! I am an EMDR Consultant in Training (mentored by Deany Laliotis, LICSW) and a Certified EMDR Therapist! I offer consultation at a reduced rate to therapists who have been through EMDR basic training and are looking for additional support and/or EMDR certification. Furthermore, I use EMDR in treating clients to quickly and effectively accomplish treatment goals so that you may live your life to the fullest. I provide tools and support to help you along your own personal journey to discover and create your best self.
(774) 462-5612 View (774) 462-5612
Photo of Michael McDonald, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael McDonald
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bedford, MA 02740  (Online Only)
The path to healing starts with a conscious choice to put yourself first, which is often a radical concept for the world and society that we live in. At Mystical Pathways, you will be taking this very step in your journey towards self-healing. I believe that the key to helping my client’s achieve a fully realized version of health is to take a holistic approach that incorporates mind, body, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing. I utilize a blend of trauma informed approaches, CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Solution Focused Therapy, Harm Reduction, and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients uncover and achieve their wellness goals.
The path to healing starts with a conscious choice to put yourself first, which is often a radical concept for the world and society that we live in. At Mystical Pathways, you will be taking this very step in your journey towards self-healing. I believe that the key to helping my client’s achieve a fully realized version of health is to take a holistic approach that incorporates mind, body, spiritual, and emotional wellbeing. I utilize a blend of trauma informed approaches, CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Solution Focused Therapy, Harm Reduction, and Motivational Interviewing to help my clients uncover and achieve their wellness goals.
(508) 687-5573 View (508) 687-5573
Photo of Jennifer M Marszalek, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer M Marszalek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740
NotAccepting new clients. Early A M, Day, Early Evening Appointments. I have been a social worker since 1986 in a variety of settings. I specialize in Grief Counseling and have expertise in the following areas: Depression, Anxiety, Parenting- consultation and in- home coaching, EMDR. I teach Mindfulness Practices such Relaxation Breathing/ Meditation, Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Creative Visualization and Journal Writing- -proven methods to decrease anxiety and depressive symptoms. Life coaching- relationships. I provide a safe, caring, compassionate space where clients can grow and heal from challenging life experiences.
NotAccepting new clients. Early A M, Day, Early Evening Appointments. I have been a social worker since 1986 in a variety of settings. I specialize in Grief Counseling and have expertise in the following areas: Depression, Anxiety, Parenting- consultation and in- home coaching, EMDR. I teach Mindfulness Practices such Relaxation Breathing/ Meditation, Progressive Muscle Relaxation, Creative Visualization and Journal Writing- -proven methods to decrease anxiety and depressive symptoms. Life coaching- relationships. I provide a safe, caring, compassionate space where clients can grow and heal from challenging life experiences.
(774) 425-7052 x132 View (774) 425-7052 x132
Photo of David Fentress, EdD, Psychologist
David Fentress
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740
In addition to extensive experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapies, I am a Certified Practitioner, Approved Consultant and Training Facilitator for EMDR (Reprocessing) Therapy.
I am a Harvard educated, Boston Children's Hospital and Erich Lindemann Mental Health Center trained clinical psychologist, and am a founding member of Psychiatric & Psychological Associates (New Bedford, MA) and Director of the Psychology Department at Whitney Academy, a Joint Commission accredited residential treatment center serving adolescent trauma survivors. I have more than 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families for a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, behavior problems, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related challenges.
In addition to extensive experience with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and psychodynamic therapies, I am a Certified Practitioner, Approved Consultant and Training Facilitator for EMDR (Reprocessing) Therapy.
I am a Harvard educated, Boston Children's Hospital and Erich Lindemann Mental Health Center trained clinical psychologist, and am a founding member of Psychiatric & Psychological Associates (New Bedford, MA) and Director of the Psychology Department at Whitney Academy, a Joint Commission accredited residential treatment center serving adolescent trauma survivors. I have more than 30 years experience working with children, adolescents, adults and families for a range of concerns including anxiety, depression, behavior problems, Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and other trauma-related challenges.
(508) 514-1045 x3 View (508) 514-1045 x3
Photo of Melissa A Whelan, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa A Whelan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740  (Online Only)
I use EMDR, CBT, Mindfulness, and Positive Psychology to work with my clients.
Have you experienced traumatic grief and been ignored by others; people don't know what to say to you? Do you suffer from anxiety and depression? Feel like you are stuck in a hole and can't get out or full of dread and worry with a heaviness in your chest? Have you experienced grief and trauma from parents with narcissistic traits, expecting them to be who they will never be. We can work together to relieve the trauma, allow for a healthy grieving process and develop strategies for the anxiety and depression. You will work on looking at yourself, changing you and your perceptions of others.
I use EMDR, CBT, Mindfulness, and Positive Psychology to work with my clients.
Have you experienced traumatic grief and been ignored by others; people don't know what to say to you? Do you suffer from anxiety and depression? Feel like you are stuck in a hole and can't get out or full of dread and worry with a heaviness in your chest? Have you experienced grief and trauma from parents with narcissistic traits, expecting them to be who they will never be. We can work together to relieve the trauma, allow for a healthy grieving process and develop strategies for the anxiety and depression. You will work on looking at yourself, changing you and your perceptions of others.
(508) 761-1870 View (508) 761-1870
Photo of Camilla Brooks, LCSW, LICSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Camilla Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, SEP
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740  (Online Only)
I am a trauma specialist, trained in Somatic Experiencing and certified in EMDR.
I believe that people have an innate capacity to heal and change. Access to this healing is sometimes blocked by negative and destructive patterns that are formed when there is a need to adapt and survive difficult, traumatic or overwhelming experiences. In a collaborative, empathic, and safe atmosphere, I facilitate people’s connections to their own resources and foster the creation of a compassionate self that is free to make mindful choices and unhook old patterns. Through psychodynamic and somatically oriented approaches, people find new insights and awareness, build resiliency and create pathways to greater fulfillment.
I am a trauma specialist, trained in Somatic Experiencing and certified in EMDR.
I believe that people have an innate capacity to heal and change. Access to this healing is sometimes blocked by negative and destructive patterns that are formed when there is a need to adapt and survive difficult, traumatic or overwhelming experiences. In a collaborative, empathic, and safe atmosphere, I facilitate people’s connections to their own resources and foster the creation of a compassionate self that is free to make mindful choices and unhook old patterns. Through psychodynamic and somatically oriented approaches, people find new insights and awareness, build resiliency and create pathways to greater fulfillment.
(646) 395-1193 View (646) 395-1193
Photo of Kimmarie Kearns-Vinal - Trauma Healing Support , LICSW, MEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trauma Healing Support
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MEd
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740
Waitlist for new clients
Do you recognize your patterns but find yourself repeating them? Have other therapies struggled to connect with the deeper healing you need? At Trauma Healing Support (THS), we specialize in trauma healing, led by an EMDRIA-certified therapist with Master's degrees in Education and Social Work and over a decade of experience. Licensed in MA, RI, NH, and CT, we bring expertise in EMDR, CBT-T, and IFS.
Do you recognize your patterns but find yourself repeating them? Have other therapies struggled to connect with the deeper healing you need? At Trauma Healing Support (THS), we specialize in trauma healing, led by an EMDRIA-certified therapist with Master's degrees in Education and Social Work and over a decade of experience. Licensed in MA, RI, NH, and CT, we bring expertise in EMDR, CBT-T, and IFS.
(508) 219-6819 View (508) 219-6819
Photo of Celina Belmarce Pina Shemo, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Celina Belmarce Pina Shemo
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740
Dr. Celina, "Ambassador of Emotional Health" is a trauma specialist particularly in the areas of abuse, neglect and domestic violence. Dr. Celina is recognized for her distinguished clinical abilities in providing diagnostic assessment and treatment in the area of trauma related issues across many ages and cultures. Dr. Celina is known for her holistic approach to treatment and her use of therapeutic tools such as; EMDR, HeartMath techniques, Relaxation and Visualization techniques, Emotional Focus using her developed “Five Keys to Emotional Oneness” System, Movement, poetry and story writing techniques and other forms of healing.
Dr. Celina, "Ambassador of Emotional Health" is a trauma specialist particularly in the areas of abuse, neglect and domestic violence. Dr. Celina is recognized for her distinguished clinical abilities in providing diagnostic assessment and treatment in the area of trauma related issues across many ages and cultures. Dr. Celina is known for her holistic approach to treatment and her use of therapeutic tools such as; EMDR, HeartMath techniques, Relaxation and Visualization techniques, Emotional Focus using her developed “Five Keys to Emotional Oneness” System, Movement, poetry and story writing techniques and other forms of healing.
(508) 538-1948 View (508) 538-1948
Photo of Laurie Gramlich Parker - Emotional Wellness Counseling, Inc, EdD, LICSW, CCATP, EMDR-II, ADHDCCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emotional Wellness Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LICSW, CCATP, EMDR-II, ADHDCCS
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02745
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Dr. Laurie Parker, Director of Emotional Wellness Counseling. I have been a therapist for 2 decades and feel passionate about my job. I truly enjoy meeting diverse clients from all walks of life. I view each person as unique, special and deserving of respect, empathy and excellent clinical care. I tend to utilize eclectic modalities in session because there is no 'one size fits all' approach to therapy. People attend therapy due to numerous challenges including relationship difficulties, life crises, loss of a job, and life transitions. Many have anxiety and depression and seek relief from their suffering.
My name is Dr. Laurie Parker, Director of Emotional Wellness Counseling. I have been a therapist for 2 decades and feel passionate about my job. I truly enjoy meeting diverse clients from all walks of life. I view each person as unique, special and deserving of respect, empathy and excellent clinical care. I tend to utilize eclectic modalities in session because there is no 'one size fits all' approach to therapy. People attend therapy due to numerous challenges including relationship difficulties, life crises, loss of a job, and life transitions. Many have anxiety and depression and seek relief from their suffering.
(508) 960-7504 View (508) 960-7504
Photo of Joanne Dakin, MA, LADC1, LLC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Joanne Dakin
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC1, LLC
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740
Clients who contact me typically have unresolved trauma that has led to illicit substance use. Clients express a desire to feel better in order to stop self-medicating with illicit drugs and/or alcohol.
Clients who contact me typically have unresolved trauma that has led to illicit substance use. Clients express a desire to feel better in order to stop self-medicating with illicit drugs and/or alcohol.
(508) 290-8343 View (508) 290-8343
Photo of Michelle Sarkar, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Sarkar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740
I begin the journey with new clients by asking, "What events in your life have led you to seek therapy now?" A frequent answer is, "I'm looking for someone to listen to me without passing judgment." We all need a secure environment to express ourselves, be listened to, and feel our emotions are acknowledged. The therapeutic setting provides this haven. Embarking on therapy with me will offer the guidance and framework necessary for clearer thinking, enabling you to establish and reach your personal goals.
I begin the journey with new clients by asking, "What events in your life have led you to seek therapy now?" A frequent answer is, "I'm looking for someone to listen to me without passing judgment." We all need a secure environment to express ourselves, be listened to, and feel our emotions are acknowledged. The therapeutic setting provides this haven. Embarking on therapy with me will offer the guidance and framework necessary for clearer thinking, enabling you to establish and reach your personal goals.
(508) 619-1206 View (508) 619-1206
Photo of Karin Tiernan - Karin Tiernan Counseling Services LLC, MA, LADC , Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Karin Tiernan Counseling Services LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LADC
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740
It is truly my passion to help others find their own path to wellness and recovery. My years of education and training, combined with my lived experience, have prepared me well to support you on your own recovery journey. It is my goal to help individuals dealing with substance use and co-occurring disorders. I will help you develop healthy coping skills and create a recovery support network. I use person-centered therapy and a whole health approach. I believe that in order to successfully treat substance use disorder, all areas of health and wellness must be addressed.
It is truly my passion to help others find their own path to wellness and recovery. My years of education and training, combined with my lived experience, have prepared me well to support you on your own recovery journey. It is my goal to help individuals dealing with substance use and co-occurring disorders. I will help you develop healthy coping skills and create a recovery support network. I use person-centered therapy and a whole health approach. I believe that in order to successfully treat substance use disorder, all areas of health and wellness must be addressed.
(508) 205-8934 View (508) 205-8934
Photo of Angelina Andrade, LADC-1, CANS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Angelina Andrade
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LADC-1, CANS
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02740  (Online Only)
Accepting new clients! As a counselor, I am driven by a genuine desire to help individuals overcome their challenges and embrace a life of fulfillment. I strongly believe in the power of collaboration, working closely with clients to co-create personalized treatment plans that address their specific goals and challenges. I believe that addiction is a disease that can be effectively treated through a modern approach, encompassing physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing. Through evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I empower clients to develop coping mechanisms, build resilience, and cultivate a support network.
Accepting new clients! As a counselor, I am driven by a genuine desire to help individuals overcome their challenges and embrace a life of fulfillment. I strongly believe in the power of collaboration, working closely with clients to co-create personalized treatment plans that address their specific goals and challenges. I believe that addiction is a disease that can be effectively treated through a modern approach, encompassing physical, emotional, and psychological wellbeing. Through evidence-based therapeutic techniques, I empower clients to develop coping mechanisms, build resilience, and cultivate a support network.
(508) 690-4740 View (508) 690-4740
Photo of Paula Obrien, LMHC, CAGS, Counselor
Paula Obrien
Counselor, LMHC, CAGS
Verified Verified
New Bedford, MA 02744  (Online Only)
I have been in practice for over 3 decades, working effectively with adults, teens and children, as individuals, couples or families.
I have been in practice for over 3 decades, working effectively with adults, teens and children, as individuals, couples or families.
(774) 806-8216 View (774) 806-8216
Photo of Elise Tetreault, MA, LMHC, DTR, Counselor
Elise Tetreault
Counselor, MA, LMHC, DTR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bedford, MA 02740
Waitlist for new clients
Is your life off track or not heading in the direction you want it to? Need help making a difficult decision or managing painful feelings? Your concerns may be of a life-long nature or a more recent or singular event or challenge. You don't have to do it alone. We can work together to help you better understand yourself, feel less confused, less stressed and be happy.
Is your life off track or not heading in the direction you want it to? Need help making a difficult decision or managing painful feelings? Your concerns may be of a life-long nature or a more recent or singular event or challenge. You don't have to do it alone. We can work together to help you better understand yourself, feel less confused, less stressed and be happy.
(508) 980-1069 View (508) 980-1069
1

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.