EMDR Therapists in Plainville, MA
I also have specialized training and skills in using EMDR, a treatment method which has a high degree of success in getting clients through past or present traumas, fears, anxieties or getting "unstuck" from negative thought patterns or behaviors.
I am a licensed psychologist who has had extensive experience working with adults, adolescents and children in individual, couple and family therapy modalities. If you are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship or loss issues, or feel stuck in moving past negative thought patterns, past events or current fears or concerns, I can help you to get through these feelings or obstacles to get to a more positive life experience. Couples therapy, parenting, child and adolescent issues including ADHD, behavioral concerns, fears, anxiety, school and family issues are also a large part of my practice.
I also have specialized training and skills in using EMDR, a treatment method which has a high degree of success in getting clients through past or present traumas, fears, anxieties or getting "unstuck" from negative thought patterns or behaviors.
I am a licensed psychologist who has had extensive experience working with adults, adolescents and children in individual, couple and family therapy modalities. If you are dealing with stress, anxiety, depression, relationship or loss issues, or feel stuck in moving past negative thought patterns, past events or current fears or concerns, I can help you to get through these feelings or obstacles to get to a more positive life experience. Couples therapy, parenting, child and adolescent issues including ADHD, behavioral concerns, fears, anxiety, school and family issues are also a large part of my practice.
![Photo of Elizabeth A. Lacasse, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d48bec95-6d79-4c47-af26-19f775b64e05/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elizabeth A. Lacasse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plainville, MA 02762
Currently accepting clients. Change is not something that comes easily to most but finding support and compassion tends to encourage people to explore the idea of change. I hope to help you on your journey in exploring change whether it be perspective or habits, I strive to be an empathic listener and ensure that you are the driver on your path towards identifying areas to work on and then, on obtaining your individual goals.
Currently accepting clients. Change is not something that comes easily to most but finding support and compassion tends to encourage people to explore the idea of change. I hope to help you on your journey in exploring change whether it be perspective or habits, I strive to be an empathic listener and ensure that you are the driver on your path towards identifying areas to work on and then, on obtaining your individual goals.
My inspiration comes from doing clinical work with a person on the journey toward gaining new insights and skills as one becomes an expert on one's self. Anyone ready to make this commitment has already demonstrated an incredible strength.
My inspiration comes from doing clinical work with a person on the journey toward gaining new insights and skills as one becomes an expert on one's self. Anyone ready to make this commitment has already demonstrated an incredible strength.
![Photo of Andrew Ogburn, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45d1a7ba-e32e-434b-9e66-10dd2c3602cd/2/320x400.jpeg)
Andrew is passionate about supporting clients on the journey toward the attainment of their goals and a more rich, full, and meaningful life. His focus is always on helping individuals along this journey in a manner that is collaborative and respectful of where they are in the process. Andrew creates a safe and supportive space, where clients can be vulnerable and bring to the space whatever it is they feel is troubling them or they want to better understand. He is committed to equipping his clients with skills to better manage their lives and emotions so they do not need to rely on addiction to cope.
Andrew is passionate about supporting clients on the journey toward the attainment of their goals and a more rich, full, and meaningful life. His focus is always on helping individuals along this journey in a manner that is collaborative and respectful of where they are in the process. Andrew creates a safe and supportive space, where clients can be vulnerable and bring to the space whatever it is they feel is troubling them or they want to better understand. He is committed to equipping his clients with skills to better manage their lives and emotions so they do not need to rely on addiction to cope.
![Photo of Nicole Lombardo, MAAT, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fc6915d2-8766-4126-805e-098f6d52c156/1/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Lombardo
Counselor, MAAT, LMHC
Verified Verified
Plainville, MA 02762
Not accepting new clients
I imagine you decided to search for a therapist because you want to heal. You may want to feel some relief and peace. EMDR and art making can help us process all that has happened. Couples art therapy is a creative way of helping couples communicate better than they have before.
I imagine you decided to search for a therapist because you want to heal. You may want to feel some relief and peace. EMDR and art making can help us process all that has happened. Couples art therapy is a creative way of helping couples communicate better than they have before.
![Photo of Nichole Leary, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55091325-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nichole Leary
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Plainville, MA 02762
Not accepting new clients
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Sensory Motor Psychotherapy and IFS to process trauma and restore stability.
Welcome to my practice, by searching for a therapist, you are taking a significant step towards creating the change you desire and deserve. The difficulties of life and trauma can create depression or anxiety, cause damage to one's sense of "self", and diminish your quality of life. I provide a safe and confidential environment to process and navigate the difficulties you are experiencing. My therapy approach is collaborative and interactive. We form a partnership and use your strengths to heal and achieve the goals you identify, in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance.
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including EMDR, Sensory Motor Psychotherapy and IFS to process trauma and restore stability.
Welcome to my practice, by searching for a therapist, you are taking a significant step towards creating the change you desire and deserve. The difficulties of life and trauma can create depression or anxiety, cause damage to one's sense of "self", and diminish your quality of life. I provide a safe and confidential environment to process and navigate the difficulties you are experiencing. My therapy approach is collaborative and interactive. We form a partnership and use your strengths to heal and achieve the goals you identify, in an atmosphere of safety and acceptance.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Manjit Khalsa, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46935b9a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Along with support, my skills include EMDR, Mindfulness, NLP and Y-CBT (Yoga-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
What you focus on today creates your tomorrow. My goal as a therapist is to help you to become the person you always hoped you'd be. Whether you are interested in help with anxiety, depression, or relationships psychotherapy can help you to create simple strategies for success. You can turn self-defeating childhood patterns into adult patterns of victory. I am a co-author of "the Yoga-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Workbook for Anxiety." Ongoing Workshops is in Millis, MA: Visit us at: Y-CBT.com
Along with support, my skills include EMDR, Mindfulness, NLP and Y-CBT (Yoga-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
What you focus on today creates your tomorrow. My goal as a therapist is to help you to become the person you always hoped you'd be. Whether you are interested in help with anxiety, depression, or relationships psychotherapy can help you to create simple strategies for success. You can turn self-defeating childhood patterns into adult patterns of victory. I am a co-author of "the Yoga-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Workbook for Anxiety." Ongoing Workshops is in Millis, MA: Visit us at: Y-CBT.com
![Photo of Serena M Neslusan, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/021abe42-4afd-4191-8896-802e63a2a0f8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Serena M Neslusan
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Foxboro, MA 02035 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Serena specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and EMDR for adults age 18+.
Weekday daytime Telehealth appt's available ! If you would like to see Serena, please email (link on this page) (1) your name, (2) date of birth, (3) type of insurance and (4) what issues you'd like to address. We all get stuck, but we don’t have to stay stuck. Make the decision today to put yourself first and come to therapy to reduce your symptoms and learn coping skills. If you’re feeling lost and don’t know where to turn, then EMAIL me and give yourself and therapy a chance.
Serena specializes in cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and EMDR for adults age 18+.
Weekday daytime Telehealth appt's available ! If you would like to see Serena, please email (link on this page) (1) your name, (2) date of birth, (3) type of insurance and (4) what issues you'd like to address. We all get stuck, but we don’t have to stay stuck. Make the decision today to put yourself first and come to therapy to reduce your symptoms and learn coping skills. If you’re feeling lost and don’t know where to turn, then EMAIL me and give yourself and therapy a chance.
Barbara Annie Ford Geiger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, MA 02038
My specialties include EMDR, Gentle Reprocessing, deep psychotherapy, brain spotting, body/mind, advocacy, medical social work, mindfulness.
Life sometimes could be better. If you are trying to cope with difficult circumstances, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical concerns, changes in life, or are simply having a difficult time thriving, this is a moment when reaching out for help can be a relief and a bridge to resilience. Our work can help you establish a peaceful, joy filled life with right relationships, sense of purpose, resolution of trauma; and for those attempting success in an endeavor, help to achieve peak performance. Areas addressed include parenting with special needs. I work with individuals, couples, young adults, children, parents, families.
My specialties include EMDR, Gentle Reprocessing, deep psychotherapy, brain spotting, body/mind, advocacy, medical social work, mindfulness.
Life sometimes could be better. If you are trying to cope with difficult circumstances, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical concerns, changes in life, or are simply having a difficult time thriving, this is a moment when reaching out for help can be a relief and a bridge to resilience. Our work can help you establish a peaceful, joy filled life with right relationships, sense of purpose, resolution of trauma; and for those attempting success in an endeavor, help to achieve peak performance. Areas addressed include parenting with special needs. I work with individuals, couples, young adults, children, parents, families.
![Photo of Deborah Rouslin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4779265d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah Rouslin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Franklin, MA 02038
I specialize in trauma work and am trained in EMDR.
As of Feb 18, 2024 my practice is full. I will post as i have openings going forward. Please contact me only through email. Hello and welcome to my Private Practice. I understand how difficult and scary it can be to take this first step and reach out for help and support. Life sometimes is not easy and we find ourselves navigating issues such as trauma, parenting, relationships. or unexpected loss. My style is oriented around growth and strength. I am here and ready to help.
I specialize in trauma work and am trained in EMDR.
As of Feb 18, 2024 my practice is full. I will post as i have openings going forward. Please contact me only through email. Hello and welcome to my Private Practice. I understand how difficult and scary it can be to take this first step and reach out for help and support. Life sometimes is not easy and we find ourselves navigating issues such as trauma, parenting, relationships. or unexpected loss. My style is oriented around growth and strength. I am here and ready to help.
![Photo of Matthew J Ludensky - Matt Counseling Services, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/513e6212-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Matt Counseling Services
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, MA 02038
Waitlist for new clients
I would like to thank all of the people on the front line for risking their lives to save ours. I am certified in EMDR and prolonged exposure, both have been proven to do well with acute stress symptoms. If you work on the front lines (healthcare, grocery stores, construction, etc) please reach out so I can help you as much as possible. Currently, I am only accepting new clients that have a PTSD diagnosis. I apologize for any inconvenience. If you feel like I am great for you please reach out!
I would like to thank all of the people on the front line for risking their lives to save ours. I am certified in EMDR and prolonged exposure, both have been proven to do well with acute stress symptoms. If you work on the front lines (healthcare, grocery stores, construction, etc) please reach out so I can help you as much as possible. Currently, I am only accepting new clients that have a PTSD diagnosis. I apologize for any inconvenience. If you feel like I am great for you please reach out!
Grishelda Hogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACSW, BCPC
Verified Verified
Bellingham, MA 02019
I am trained in several modalities recognized as gold standard in treatment including: Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Whole Health Coaching, Multi-Family Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
My name is Grishelda Hogan, LICSW, and I have 20 years experience working with adults, children, families and leading groups. I am the founder of the Center for Integrated Wellness( CIW). My personal approach working with clients is a collaborative and creative process. All treatment and coaching is personalized and will offer therapeutic evidence base practice while incorporating holistic and wellness treatment options. As I work with the whole person this may include physical health, life/ work balance, spirituality, personal development, relationships and looking at how your environment plays a role in your overall health.
I am trained in several modalities recognized as gold standard in treatment including: Prolonged Exposure (PE), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), Whole Health Coaching, Multi-Family Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
My name is Grishelda Hogan, LICSW, and I have 20 years experience working with adults, children, families and leading groups. I am the founder of the Center for Integrated Wellness( CIW). My personal approach working with clients is a collaborative and creative process. All treatment and coaching is personalized and will offer therapeutic evidence base practice while incorporating holistic and wellness treatment options. As I work with the whole person this may include physical health, life/ work balance, spirituality, personal development, relationships and looking at how your environment plays a role in your overall health.
![Photo of Ananda DeMaio, LICSW, LCDP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ed931c5a-a3fd-4f02-81e6-47cf9df9285c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ananda DeMaio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCDP
Verified Verified
Foxboro, MA 02035 (Online Only)
With training in EMDR, I also specialize in issues of trauma and complex trauma, addiction and co-dependency.
Are you tired of living out the same patterns again and again? At times, our personal experiences can be difficult to navigate or make sense of. When our experiences begin to overwhelm us, affecting our relationships, happiness, or functioning, guidance from an effective therapist can make a difference. My goal is to help you feel comfortable in the therapeutic process and to provide a safe space for you to reflect, process, grow, and recover. I offer a strength based, trauma informed approach in assisting you to clarify and work towards your personal goals.
With training in EMDR, I also specialize in issues of trauma and complex trauma, addiction and co-dependency.
Are you tired of living out the same patterns again and again? At times, our personal experiences can be difficult to navigate or make sense of. When our experiences begin to overwhelm us, affecting our relationships, happiness, or functioning, guidance from an effective therapist can make a difference. My goal is to help you feel comfortable in the therapeutic process and to provide a safe space for you to reflect, process, grow, and recover. I offer a strength based, trauma informed approach in assisting you to clarify and work towards your personal goals.
![Photo of Susan Nisenbaum Becker, LCSW, LADC, RDT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ca0313d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Nisenbaum Becker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, RDT
Verified Verified
Foxboro, MA 02035
My training is eclectic including traditional psychodynamic theory, gestalt, Eriksonian hypnosis, family systems theory, EMDR, meditation/mindfulness, yoga, alcohol and drug counseling, and drama/expressive therapies.
I have been been in private practice for over 20 years and find I remain engaged and excited about my work. I strive to develop good rapport and an empathetic connection with each person, to be an ally and guide, and to develop a good working relationship where together clients and I can focus on their desired changes. My goal is to foster a safe and supportive place for clients to work to transform their challenges regarding mood, addiction, relationship, spirituality, parenting, life transitions, illness, loss, divorce, creative/performance blocks, body image and self esteem.
My training is eclectic including traditional psychodynamic theory, gestalt, Eriksonian hypnosis, family systems theory, EMDR, meditation/mindfulness, yoga, alcohol and drug counseling, and drama/expressive therapies.
I have been been in private practice for over 20 years and find I remain engaged and excited about my work. I strive to develop good rapport and an empathetic connection with each person, to be an ally and guide, and to develop a good working relationship where together clients and I can focus on their desired changes. My goal is to foster a safe and supportive place for clients to work to transform their challenges regarding mood, addiction, relationship, spirituality, parenting, life transitions, illness, loss, divorce, creative/performance blocks, body image and self esteem.
![Photo of Manjit Khalsa, EdD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f78d889-5562-42d6-aacb-2e959d8b05f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Manjit began her career in mental health as a psychologist working with the innovative Neuro-Linguistic Programming and later became extremely proficient in EMDR therapy.
Manjit’s diverse and extensive experience will bring a new edge to the counseling session. She is passionate about meeting clients where they are at and will work with you to find a solution to a problem. She believes in the power everyone has in them to overcome their obstacles and find new life. Manjit’s experience working the mind and body enables her to see problems as multi-faceted. Her job as a psychologist is to help you apply the best strategies to solve the problem yourself and grow stronger from it.
Manjit began her career in mental health as a psychologist working with the innovative Neuro-Linguistic Programming and later became extremely proficient in EMDR therapy.
Manjit’s diverse and extensive experience will bring a new edge to the counseling session. She is passionate about meeting clients where they are at and will work with you to find a solution to a problem. She believes in the power everyone has in them to overcome their obstacles and find new life. Manjit’s experience working the mind and body enables her to see problems as multi-faceted. Her job as a psychologist is to help you apply the best strategies to solve the problem yourself and grow stronger from it.
![Photo of Dawn Skop - Dawn Skop, LMHC , LMHC, LADC1, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/91005c44-2ab7-4ac3-bf48-5a8f94500f29/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer talk therapy, EMDR, Reiki, IFS, and hypnotherapy.
Things are really intense and scary in the world these days. And there’s a tremendous amount of grief, loss and anxiety that many of us are dealing with on all of levels. Because of that reality it might be hard to feel OK about the places in your life where you are doing well and feeling joy. Are you seeking personal growth or professional development to address barriers to desired outcomes? Interested in living a life of purpose and meaning through choice and action? Wanting to engage in deep emotional and spiritual healing?
I offer talk therapy, EMDR, Reiki, IFS, and hypnotherapy.
Things are really intense and scary in the world these days. And there’s a tremendous amount of grief, loss and anxiety that many of us are dealing with on all of levels. Because of that reality it might be hard to feel OK about the places in your life where you are doing well and feeling joy. Are you seeking personal growth or professional development to address barriers to desired outcomes? Interested in living a life of purpose and meaning through choice and action? Wanting to engage in deep emotional and spiritual healing?
![Photo of Kevin Hayden, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a24c7549-1e3d-4bd7-96b7-400fdbcca022/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kevin Hayden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MA 02048 (Online Only)
I use EMDR, CBT and solution focused therapy and work with my clients on lifestyle changes (physical activity, habit changes, creating structure, and stress management, etc.
Hi, I'm Kevin. If you're reading this, chances are things in your life are causing you distress and you're seeking change. I'm glad you're here and taking a step towards asking for help. Whether it's battling anxiety, navigating social situations, changing your habits, or feeling overwhelmed by work and relationships, know that you're not alone. I've helped many people in your situation and I can help you. I focus on helping people build sustainable habits and skills that lead to significant and lasting changes, through a thoughtful, supportive and guiding approach to treatment.
I use EMDR, CBT and solution focused therapy and work with my clients on lifestyle changes (physical activity, habit changes, creating structure, and stress management, etc.
Hi, I'm Kevin. If you're reading this, chances are things in your life are causing you distress and you're seeking change. I'm glad you're here and taking a step towards asking for help. Whether it's battling anxiety, navigating social situations, changing your habits, or feeling overwhelmed by work and relationships, know that you're not alone. I've helped many people in your situation and I can help you. I focus on helping people build sustainable habits and skills that lead to significant and lasting changes, through a thoughtful, supportive and guiding approach to treatment.
![Photo of Antoanette Gonzales, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/94c0d46f-3058-46a6-bf27-1bde1aa3a4bc/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am uniquely trained in EMDR and use CBT, DBT and solution-focused methods to tailor therapy strategies to clients' unique goals and circumstances.
Whether clients are facing new stressors that impact their mood, relationships or behavior or they're struggling with long-standing concerns from childhood development, their family history or traumatic loss, I understand the isolation these challenges can bring and the difficulty that comes with processing and adjustment. For you and your relationships or for your child and family, beginning the journey toward change can be hard and overwhelming. Through a warm and collaborative approach, my work is focused on supporting clients as they begin and continue on their journey to develop new ways of thinking, feeling and relating.
I am uniquely trained in EMDR and use CBT, DBT and solution-focused methods to tailor therapy strategies to clients' unique goals and circumstances.
Whether clients are facing new stressors that impact their mood, relationships or behavior or they're struggling with long-standing concerns from childhood development, their family history or traumatic loss, I understand the isolation these challenges can bring and the difficulty that comes with processing and adjustment. For you and your relationships or for your child and family, beginning the journey toward change can be hard and overwhelming. Through a warm and collaborative approach, my work is focused on supporting clients as they begin and continue on their journey to develop new ways of thinking, feeling and relating.
![Photo of Lauren Milikin, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b3d6641-0084-4f88-81c2-fd50421cf4bf/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have specialized training in trauma and predominantly utilize experiential and somatic modalities like EMDR and Psychodrama in my therapeutic practice.
Do you struggle with anxious thoughts, a lack of motivation, or watching yourself fall into the same patterns over and over? Chronic stress and hardship can leave us feeling stuck in loops we don’t know how to escape, destroy our sense of self-worth, and leave us questioning who we are. My clients are primarily adult individuals who have experienced trauma, whether an isolated event, or a series of seemingly small events that have left a big impact over time. I also have a heart for working with clients who have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, life transitions, issues with identity and self-worth, and spiritual abuse.
I have specialized training in trauma and predominantly utilize experiential and somatic modalities like EMDR and Psychodrama in my therapeutic practice.
Do you struggle with anxious thoughts, a lack of motivation, or watching yourself fall into the same patterns over and over? Chronic stress and hardship can leave us feeling stuck in loops we don’t know how to escape, destroy our sense of self-worth, and leave us questioning who we are. My clients are primarily adult individuals who have experienced trauma, whether an isolated event, or a series of seemingly small events that have left a big impact over time. I also have a heart for working with clients who have experienced feelings of depression, anxiety, life transitions, issues with identity and self-worth, and spiritual abuse.
![Photo of Jordan Castonguay, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce376d17-92b8-4501-80fb-ffb25b970a12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, EMDR Certified Therapist, and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. She strives to provide clients with the support and guidance needed to heal from painful life experiences and achieve meaningful growth. Jordan utilizes an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from an array of disciplines including: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal Informed Therapy and Intuitive Eating counseling.
Jordan is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, EMDR Certified Therapist, and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. She strives to provide clients with the support and guidance needed to heal from painful life experiences and achieve meaningful growth. Jordan utilizes an eclectic approach to therapy, drawing from an array of disciplines including: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal Informed Therapy and Intuitive Eating counseling.
See more therapy options for Plainville
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.