EMDR Therapists in Newton, MA

Photo of Marwan El Khoury, MA, MDiv, EMDR, KAP, HYPNO, Pre-Licensed Professional
Marwan El Khoury
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, MDiv, EMDR, KAP, HYPNO
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02464
I offer integrative treatments: Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Hypnotherapy, EMDR, CBT, DBT, individual therapy, spirituality, existentialism, post-modern.
Have you been struggling with uncontrollable negative thoughts, panic attacks, and anxiety? Do you have low self-esteem, low-confidence and low-body image? Did you lose meaning of life or even do not know why you exist? I know your goal! You want to be the most powerful and successful person in the world! Well, I can help you with that. My therapeutic philosophy focuses on Your freedom, power, strength, and responsibility to overcome Your distress through a positive goal-oriented approach and extreme empathy. We will both utilize integrative treatment uniquely designed for You to achieve personal growth and healing.
I offer integrative treatments: Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP), Hypnotherapy, EMDR, CBT, DBT, individual therapy, spirituality, existentialism, post-modern.
Have you been struggling with uncontrollable negative thoughts, panic attacks, and anxiety? Do you have low self-esteem, low-confidence and low-body image? Did you lose meaning of life or even do not know why you exist? I know your goal! You want to be the most powerful and successful person in the world! Well, I can help you with that. My therapeutic philosophy focuses on Your freedom, power, strength, and responsibility to overcome Your distress through a positive goal-oriented approach and extreme empathy. We will both utilize integrative treatment uniquely designed for You to achieve personal growth and healing.
(617) 420-6307 View (617) 420-6307
Photo of Aviva R Bock, MA, EdM, CCMHC, LMHC, Counselor
Aviva R Bock
Counselor, MA, EdM, CCMHC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
From self criticism to self compassion. An open calm curious genuine exploration No shaming, no judgment only a question: What happened? What curve balls did life sent your way? My approach is holistic integrative and relational. If it works for you I will introduce you to a tool box of resources: somatic, energetic, EMDR, Flash etc as together we make sense of where you are now, what you are feeling, how to help you shift to a place of renewed empowerment and control, to be who you want to be and feel how you want to feel? A system/soul update to a renewed place of joy peace and harmony.
From self criticism to self compassion. An open calm curious genuine exploration No shaming, no judgment only a question: What happened? What curve balls did life sent your way? My approach is holistic integrative and relational. If it works for you I will introduce you to a tool box of resources: somatic, energetic, EMDR, Flash etc as together we make sense of where you are now, what you are feeling, how to help you shift to a place of renewed empowerment and control, to be who you want to be and feel how you want to feel? A system/soul update to a renewed place of joy peace and harmony.
(617) 446-3042 View (617) 446-3042
Photo of Elaine E Hatow, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elaine E Hatow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
I have been practicing psychotherapy with individuals and couples for more than 40 years. My style is interactive and I try to provide safety and support in order to understand and explore the issues and concerns you bring forward. I have extensive training and experience in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing}. Additionally I use a mix of relational, psychodynamic and cognitive approaches
I have been practicing psychotherapy with individuals and couples for more than 40 years. My style is interactive and I try to provide safety and support in order to understand and explore the issues and concerns you bring forward. I have extensive training and experience in using EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing}. Additionally I use a mix of relational, psychodynamic and cognitive approaches
(857) 574-0947 View (857) 574-0947
Photo of Sarvenaz Moshfegh Asiedu - Deeprogramming Group Therapy, LMHC, Counselor
Deeprogramming Group Therapy
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Providing a comprehensive range of services tailored to diverse needs, including immigration assessments, individual and group therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and expressive therapy.
Are you seeking support through our immigration assessment services? longing for relief from overwhelming thoughts and memories? Have you had extra-ordinary experiences? Ketamine Assisted Therapy? Interested in exploring our Neuroqueer group therapy, finding comfort in our bereavement group, or tapping into your creativity through art therapy sessions? Looking to navigate recovery from an abusive partnership in a supportive group setting? Are you a therapist looking for supervision? Do you love Palestine?
Providing a comprehensive range of services tailored to diverse needs, including immigration assessments, individual and group therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and expressive therapy.
Are you seeking support through our immigration assessment services? longing for relief from overwhelming thoughts and memories? Have you had extra-ordinary experiences? Ketamine Assisted Therapy? Interested in exploring our Neuroqueer group therapy, finding comfort in our bereavement group, or tapping into your creativity through art therapy sessions? Looking to navigate recovery from an abusive partnership in a supportive group setting? Are you a therapist looking for supervision? Do you love Palestine?
(857) 290-4161 View (857) 290-4161
Photo of Alyssa Desroches - Seed of Truth Counseling LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seed of Truth Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02467  (Online Only)
You will find in me someone who is devoted to your well-being, using a mix of EMDR, emotion-focused, analytic, and holistic approaches.
Do you struggle with living in a state of overwhelm that affects your work, home life, or relationships? Are you finding yourself strongly reacting to seemingly small things, and wondering, “what’s wrong with me?” Do you feel out of touch with yourself, outside of yourself, shutting down mentally & emotionally? Are you feeling lost, unheard, or betrayed in your relationship? If you can answer "yes" to any of these questions, then you have come to the right place, and there is hope for you. In the work we do together, you will be able to have more moments of contentment, assuredness, and power over your own wellness.
You will find in me someone who is devoted to your well-being, using a mix of EMDR, emotion-focused, analytic, and holistic approaches.
Do you struggle with living in a state of overwhelm that affects your work, home life, or relationships? Are you finding yourself strongly reacting to seemingly small things, and wondering, “what’s wrong with me?” Do you feel out of touch with yourself, outside of yourself, shutting down mentally & emotionally? Are you feeling lost, unheard, or betrayed in your relationship? If you can answer "yes" to any of these questions, then you have come to the right place, and there is hope for you. In the work we do together, you will be able to have more moments of contentment, assuredness, and power over your own wellness.
(413) 359-6679 View (413) 359-6679
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 Susan Elizabeth Aeschbach, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Elizabeth Aeschbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02468
I have 35+ years of experience and have been trained extensively in psychodynamic psychotherapy, hypnosis, mindfulness, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
I work in a very collaborative way to help you to achieve your personal goals. The fit is essential and so I invite you to meet with me to see if the match feels right. In our initial meetings I will want to get an understanding of what is working well in your life as well as what is not working well. I will also obtain a history and after a couple of sesions I will share with you my assessment of you and your problems and will recommend a treatment approach that I think will be helpful.
I have 35+ years of experience and have been trained extensively in psychodynamic psychotherapy, hypnosis, mindfulness, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and IFS (Internal Family Systems).
I work in a very collaborative way to help you to achieve your personal goals. The fit is essential and so I invite you to meet with me to see if the match feels right. In our initial meetings I will want to get an understanding of what is working well in your life as well as what is not working well. I will also obtain a history and after a couple of sesions I will share with you my assessment of you and your problems and will recommend a treatment approach that I think will be helpful.
(617) 500-1337 View (617) 500-1337
Photo of Risheen Maheswaran Brown, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Risheen Maheswaran Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02466
I am accepting referrals for weekly therapy and intensive EMDR therapy.
I work with clients to address a range of issues including anxiety and depression, problems at work or in relationships, stress and life transitions. I have a particular interest in serving clients who have experienced trauma as adults or in childhood. I primarily offer EMDR and emotion-focused therapy, but have advanced training in many approaches, including parts work and body-oriented therapy. I welcome clients who belong to historically marginalized groups and strive to create a space for clients to grapple with and make sense of their experience.
I am accepting referrals for weekly therapy and intensive EMDR therapy.
I work with clients to address a range of issues including anxiety and depression, problems at work or in relationships, stress and life transitions. I have a particular interest in serving clients who have experienced trauma as adults or in childhood. I primarily offer EMDR and emotion-focused therapy, but have advanced training in many approaches, including parts work and body-oriented therapy. I welcome clients who belong to historically marginalized groups and strive to create a space for clients to grapple with and make sense of their experience.
(781) 574-8957 View (781) 574-8957
Photo of Martha C Pedersen, MLA, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Martha C Pedersen
Counselor, MLA, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02465  (Online Only)
My practice centers on EMDR and Lifespan Integration.
I am currently accepting new clients. Therapy can be hard to start but it’s so rewarding. Anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and ADHD are my specialities. These things can cause all kinds of discomfort in everyday life - feeling nervous, overwhelmed, unsure of yourself, and disconnected. But this doesn’t have to be a way of life. Instead, you can feel comfortable in your own skin, confident in what you have to offer and at peace with who you are and what you’ve been through. You can make sense of your life and feel good about yourself.
My practice centers on EMDR and Lifespan Integration.
I am currently accepting new clients. Therapy can be hard to start but it’s so rewarding. Anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and ADHD are my specialities. These things can cause all kinds of discomfort in everyday life - feeling nervous, overwhelmed, unsure of yourself, and disconnected. But this doesn’t have to be a way of life. Instead, you can feel comfortable in your own skin, confident in what you have to offer and at peace with who you are and what you’ve been through. You can make sense of your life and feel good about yourself.
(617) 681-7644 View (617) 681-7644
Photo of Minyue Zhai, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Minyue Zhai
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458
I'm specialized in working with children and adolescents and practice with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
I believe strongly in that true happiness comes from inner strength within ourselves and my goal is to help my clients reach the goals they want to be committed to. An ideal client for me would be someone who has anxiety and could not get over the past or someone who is suffering from depression. I have helped many clients of mine overcome severe anxiety/depression and improve life quality.
I'm specialized in working with children and adolescents and practice with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT).
I believe strongly in that true happiness comes from inner strength within ourselves and my goal is to help my clients reach the goals they want to be committed to. An ideal client for me would be someone who has anxiety and could not get over the past or someone who is suffering from depression. I have helped many clients of mine overcome severe anxiety/depression and improve life quality.
(617) 326-3682 View (617) 326-3682
Photo of Adam Henderson - Trauma Psychotherapy - Dr. Adam Henderson, MD
Trauma Psychotherapy - Dr. Adam Henderson
MD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Waitlist for new clients
For trauma and PTSD, I am trained in EMDR.
Welcome! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist offering psychotherapy and thoughtful medication management. I'm on faculty at Harvard Medical School and work as a staff psychiatrist at McLean hospital, in addition to my time in my confidential private practice. I'm specialized in trauma recovery, addiction counseling, and BPD treatment. I also help with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I work with clients new to therapy as well as clients who have tried numerous therapies and/or medications and haven't gotten the results they wanted. I listen and work collaboratively with you.
For trauma and PTSD, I am trained in EMDR.
Welcome! I'm a board-certified psychiatrist offering psychotherapy and thoughtful medication management. I'm on faculty at Harvard Medical School and work as a staff psychiatrist at McLean hospital, in addition to my time in my confidential private practice. I'm specialized in trauma recovery, addiction counseling, and BPD treatment. I also help with depression, anxiety, and ADHD. I work with clients new to therapy as well as clients who have tried numerous therapies and/or medications and haven't gotten the results they wanted. I listen and work collaboratively with you.
(617) 996-7161 View (617) 996-7161
Photo of Sarah Garrity, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Garrity
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize CBT, DBT, internal family systems, and EMDR.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with trauma, relationship challenges, low-self-esteem, or who are coping with behaviors such as disordered eating or substance use. I take a warm, collaborative and holistic approach to help you better understand yourself, un-learn old ways of being, and develop the capacity to manage all that life brings. Together, at a pace you are comfortable with, we can explore places in your life where you feel stuck, and move towards the life you want to live. My goal is to help you find peace with yourself and with your body.
I utilize CBT, DBT, internal family systems, and EMDR.
I specialize in helping people who are struggling with trauma, relationship challenges, low-self-esteem, or who are coping with behaviors such as disordered eating or substance use. I take a warm, collaborative and holistic approach to help you better understand yourself, un-learn old ways of being, and develop the capacity to manage all that life brings. Together, at a pace you are comfortable with, we can explore places in your life where you feel stuck, and move towards the life you want to live. My goal is to help you find peace with yourself and with your body.
(617) 500-1492 View (617) 500-1492
Photo of Rose Stackhouse, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rose Stackhouse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newton, MA 02468
I am a fully trained EMDR therapist and offer/incorporate Somatic Healing Modalities.
NOTE: Only accepting clients for Quantum Hypnosis Sessions - Ongoing therapy client spots are currently filled - My style is very relational. I believe the strength of relationship over any modality is what is most healing in a therapeutic relationship. I am here to walk alongside you on your healing journey as a compassionate, kind and supportive witness. Offering support to those healing from experiences of trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, shame, codependency and relationship challenges. I would also be a good match for parents (soon to be parents, postpartum or parenting birth - 5 years old).
I am a fully trained EMDR therapist and offer/incorporate Somatic Healing Modalities.
NOTE: Only accepting clients for Quantum Hypnosis Sessions - Ongoing therapy client spots are currently filled - My style is very relational. I believe the strength of relationship over any modality is what is most healing in a therapeutic relationship. I am here to walk alongside you on your healing journey as a compassionate, kind and supportive witness. Offering support to those healing from experiences of trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, anxiety, shame, codependency and relationship challenges. I would also be a good match for parents (soon to be parents, postpartum or parenting birth - 5 years old).
(802) 347-9421 View (802) 347-9421
Photo of Yulia Timoleon, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Yulia Timoleon
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02467  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist, which helps me work with complex trauma cases and help people reclaim their strength and resilience.
In our lives, we face a lot of challenging experiences. Dealing with them could be confusing, overwhelming, and isolating. As your therapist, I will support and guide you through traumatic experiences, creating a space for growth, purpose, and hope.
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist, which helps me work with complex trauma cases and help people reclaim their strength and resilience.
In our lives, we face a lot of challenging experiences. Dealing with them could be confusing, overwhelming, and isolating. As your therapist, I will support and guide you through traumatic experiences, creating a space for growth, purpose, and hope.
(508) 219-6407 View (508) 219-6407
Photo of Lia Humphrey, LICSW, EMDR, KAP, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lia Humphrey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR, KAP, IFS
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02456
I am an EMDR, KAP, IFS trained therapist, versed in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction.
I provide the framework of a safe and trusting therapy relationship, my clients gain the understanding and skills needed to make changes toward a more fulfilling life. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, internal family systems, ketamine assisted psychotherapy along with other behavioral interventions to help clients reach their goal. My clients have described me as warm, open, easy to talk with and respectful. I offer weekly sessions and three day intensives. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have.
I am an EMDR, KAP, IFS trained therapist, versed in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety and addiction.
I provide the framework of a safe and trusting therapy relationship, my clients gain the understanding and skills needed to make changes toward a more fulfilling life. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, internal family systems, ketamine assisted psychotherapy along with other behavioral interventions to help clients reach their goal. My clients have described me as warm, open, easy to talk with and respectful. I offer weekly sessions and three day intensives. I’m happy to answer any questions you may have.
(508) 214-4542 View (508) 214-4542
Photo of Merry Arnold, PsyD, Psychologist
Merry Arnold
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
I have expertise using specialized techniques, including EMDR, hypnosis, Positive Psychology, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
I can help you identify and use your strengths, while supporting you as we work together to reduce the pain and stress that affects your ability to flourish.
I have expertise using specialized techniques, including EMDR, hypnosis, Positive Psychology, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and Internal Family Systems Therapy.
I can help you identify and use your strengths, while supporting you as we work together to reduce the pain and stress that affects your ability to flourish.
(617) 277-4800 View (617) 277-4800
Photo of Linda Fleger-Berman, LICSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Linda Fleger-Berman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459
Together we can discover and develop your inherent strengths so that you can heal, recover, grow and live a fulfilling life. Offering a mature, warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, I take an eclectic approach: integrating Clinical Hypnosis, Psychodynamic therapy, Attachment based therapy (click above on website for details), Bioenergetics, and EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). Understanding that healing has a spiritual dimension, I have practiced meditation for 14 yrs. Adolescents, Adults and Elderly. Individuals, Couples and Families. Resolve Relationship issues,Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Abuse,Addictions and Co-dependence, Loss and Grief. Realize creative potential and more. The first step is the hardest. Call (617)738-9480.
Together we can discover and develop your inherent strengths so that you can heal, recover, grow and live a fulfilling life. Offering a mature, warm and trusting therapeutic relationship, I take an eclectic approach: integrating Clinical Hypnosis, Psychodynamic therapy, Attachment based therapy (click above on website for details), Bioenergetics, and EMDR (Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing). Understanding that healing has a spiritual dimension, I have practiced meditation for 14 yrs. Adolescents, Adults and Elderly. Individuals, Couples and Families. Resolve Relationship issues,Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and Abuse,Addictions and Co-dependence, Loss and Grief. Realize creative potential and more. The first step is the hardest. Call (617)738-9480.
(617) 841-8478 View (617) 841-8478
Photo of Tera Hirsch, LICSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tera Hirsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458
My work is integrative but I draw primarily from psychological frameworks including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, parts work, and EMDR.
Entering therapy shows motivation to heal and grow often at a time when one feels most vulnerable. My approach is one of warmth and respect. I try to create an environment where clients feel free to discuss any problem. While I believe our past experiences inform our present life, I do not believe they define us. Difficult symptoms are often ways we have found to best manage painful emotions, thoughts and body sensations. Unfortunately, 'symptoms' occur when our 'solutions' for managing thoughts and feelings are no longer working for us. I strive to help clients find solutions that work better for them.
My work is integrative but I draw primarily from psychological frameworks including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, parts work, and EMDR.
Entering therapy shows motivation to heal and grow often at a time when one feels most vulnerable. My approach is one of warmth and respect. I try to create an environment where clients feel free to discuss any problem. While I believe our past experiences inform our present life, I do not believe they define us. Difficult symptoms are often ways we have found to best manage painful emotions, thoughts and body sensations. Unfortunately, 'symptoms' occur when our 'solutions' for managing thoughts and feelings are no longer working for us. I strive to help clients find solutions that work better for them.
(857) 239-0160 View (857) 239-0160
Photo of Jonathan S Runge, PsyD, Psychologist
Jonathan S Runge
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02458  (Online Only)
Finding a therapist is a daunting task, even for clinicians. While I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety-related disorders and depression, I also incorporate elements of Mindfulness, Problem-Solving, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. In addition, I have been trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) by the EMDR Institute. My goal is to help you feel more hopeful, be happier, and have agency with your life.
Finding a therapist is a daunting task, even for clinicians. While I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for anxiety-related disorders and depression, I also incorporate elements of Mindfulness, Problem-Solving, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Gottman Method Couples Therapy. In addition, I have been trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) by the EMDR Institute. My goal is to help you feel more hopeful, be happier, and have agency with your life.
(617) 945-8028 View (617) 945-8028
Photo of Shawna V. Carboni, MSW, LICSW, DCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shawna V. Carboni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Newton, MA 02459  (Online Only)
She provides an innovative combination of insight-oriented therapy with Brainspotting and EMDR.
With more than 35 years experience, Ms. Carboni fervently believe in each individual's capacity for personal growth and change. With an ever-positive outlook, she seeks to identify inner resources and cultivate new capacities and perspectives that will contribute to a deeper self-awareness and an improved quality of life.
She provides an innovative combination of insight-oriented therapy with Brainspotting and EMDR.
With more than 35 years experience, Ms. Carboni fervently believe in each individual's capacity for personal growth and change. With an ever-positive outlook, she seeks to identify inner resources and cultivate new capacities and perspectives that will contribute to a deeper self-awareness and an improved quality of life.
(617) 782-5020 View (617) 782-5020
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.