EMDR Therapists in Reading, MA

Photo of Catherine Harvey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Reading, MA 01867
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
(857) 375-5760 View (857) 375-5760
Photo of Aimee Mills-Viscovich, LICSW, MSW, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aimee Mills-Viscovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW, MA
Verified Verified
Reading, MA 01867  (Online Only)
I am so glad you’re here! My name is Aimee and being a therapist is one of my many labels. I am female, cisgender, queer, and neurodiverse. Because of my lived experiences, I deeply understand the need for therapists in the LGBTQIA+ communities. I am happy to fulfill a piece of that need by focusing my therapy practice on individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+. This includes expansive gender identities and sexual orientations. Many clients I serve identify as Non-Binary, Trans, Bisexual, Asexual, Lesbian, and Polyamorous.
I am so glad you’re here! My name is Aimee and being a therapist is one of my many labels. I am female, cisgender, queer, and neurodiverse. Because of my lived experiences, I deeply understand the need for therapists in the LGBTQIA+ communities. I am happy to fulfill a piece of that need by focusing my therapy practice on individuals who identify as LGBTQIA+. This includes expansive gender identities and sexual orientations. Many clients I serve identify as Non-Binary, Trans, Bisexual, Asexual, Lesbian, and Polyamorous.
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Photo of Maureen Kenny-Woodworth, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maureen Kenny-Woodworth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Reading, MA 01867
Unfortunately, I am unable to accept new patients at this time. Welcome, my name is Maureen Kenny-Woodworth and I have been practicing psychotherapy for 25 years. It is my goal to assist you in reaching your goals! Congratulations on taking the first step, I know it can be intimidating to talk to someone about your concerns. It would be my pleasure to work with you in creating a comfortable safe place to reflect inward.
Unfortunately, I am unable to accept new patients at this time. Welcome, my name is Maureen Kenny-Woodworth and I have been practicing psychotherapy for 25 years. It is my goal to assist you in reaching your goals! Congratulations on taking the first step, I know it can be intimidating to talk to someone about your concerns. It would be my pleasure to work with you in creating a comfortable safe place to reflect inward.
(781) 361-9138 View (781) 361-9138
Photo of Diana Cofsky, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Reading, MA 01867
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(857) 392-3141 View (857) 392-3141
Photo of Rebekah Gibbons, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebekah Gibbons
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Reading, MA 01867
Not accepting new clients
I work primarily with individuals (ages 15 and up) and families, specializing in trauma, mental illness, attachment and relationship issues, and the difficulty that comes with life transitions. I also have an interest in adults with parents who have personality disorders or mental illness, as well as caregivers of children with mental illness. Therapy can feel big and scary, however it doesn't have to be! Taking this step is about choosing to prioritize your own health and needs. My priority in treatment is supporting you to increase self-care, self-love, and guide you towards wellness and healing.
I work primarily with individuals (ages 15 and up) and families, specializing in trauma, mental illness, attachment and relationship issues, and the difficulty that comes with life transitions. I also have an interest in adults with parents who have personality disorders or mental illness, as well as caregivers of children with mental illness. Therapy can feel big and scary, however it doesn't have to be! Taking this step is about choosing to prioritize your own health and needs. My priority in treatment is supporting you to increase self-care, self-love, and guide you towards wellness and healing.
(978) 310-2973 View (978) 310-2973
Photo of Kelin Dickerson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelin Dickerson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Reading, MA 01867
Not accepting new clients
I currently have limited daytime availability, email preferred when possible . Starting therapy can be intimidating and why it is vital to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and safe. I view each person or family I work with as individuals and incorporate how relationships and environment impact daily functioning. The priority in treatment is supporting you to increase self-care, self-love, and guide you towards wellness and healing. As a LMFT I have had the opportunity to work with a myriad of mental health needs focusing on anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life stage changes, and the LGBT+ community.
I currently have limited daytime availability, email preferred when possible . Starting therapy can be intimidating and why it is vital to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable and safe. I view each person or family I work with as individuals and incorporate how relationships and environment impact daily functioning. The priority in treatment is supporting you to increase self-care, self-love, and guide you towards wellness and healing. As a LMFT I have had the opportunity to work with a myriad of mental health needs focusing on anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, life stage changes, and the LGBT+ community.
(978) 396-1989 View (978) 396-1989

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica Slavin Connelly, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Slavin Connelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02140  (Online Only)
It takes courage and awareness to reach out for support, and I am glad you are here. I strive for our work together to feel immediately comforting, meaningful, real, and effective in getting to the heart of your core concerns. I work from a trauma-informed, context informed, integrative framework in a warm and interactive environment, drawing from holistic, cognitive, and psychodynamic perspectives and I am a DBT and EMDR certified practitioner. Our relationship matters the most in terms of building trust to achieve goals. On that note, I am a Jewish Therapist. If this is of concern for you, I suggest seeing alternative referrals.
It takes courage and awareness to reach out for support, and I am glad you are here. I strive for our work together to feel immediately comforting, meaningful, real, and effective in getting to the heart of your core concerns. I work from a trauma-informed, context informed, integrative framework in a warm and interactive environment, drawing from holistic, cognitive, and psychodynamic perspectives and I am a DBT and EMDR certified practitioner. Our relationship matters the most in terms of building trust to achieve goals. On that note, I am a Jewish Therapist. If this is of concern for you, I suggest seeing alternative referrals.
(617) 752-2945 View (617) 752-2945
Photo of Vincent Meoli - Vitruvian Behavioral Health, PC, MD, PMHNP, LICSW
Vitruvian Behavioral Health, PC
MD, PMHNP, LICSW
Verified Verified
Middleton, MA 01949  (Online Only)
Our therapy services are DBT, CBT, MI, (limited availability: EMDR, CR for PTSD).
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management and Therapy Vitruvian Behavioral Health was founded to fill a dire need for mental health treatment in the community. Our psychiatric nurse practitioners and clinicians are trained and skilled to help with every behavioral health problem from stress management to complex PTSD. Our goal is to work collaborative with you and your PCP to help you become the person you've always wanted to be.
Our therapy services are DBT, CBT, MI, (limited availability: EMDR, CR for PTSD).
Accepting New Patients for Medication Management and Therapy Vitruvian Behavioral Health was founded to fill a dire need for mental health treatment in the community. Our psychiatric nurse practitioners and clinicians are trained and skilled to help with every behavioral health problem from stress management to complex PTSD. Our goal is to work collaborative with you and your PCP to help you become the person you've always wanted to be.
(978) 515-6810 View (978) 515-6810
Photo of Carita Anderson - Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality, PhD
Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality
PhD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474
Whether it is talk therapy, journaling, homework assignments, Imago therapy, mindfulness or somatic treatments like EMDR and Brainspotting, we work together with you to find what helps you best.
At Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality, we recognize that while all humans struggle with one issue or another, at one time or another, it can be difficult to seek help and support. Expectations that you might have of yourself or expectations that you think or KNOW others have of you can really weigh you down when life gets busy. Sometimes you know exactly what you need help with, and other times, things just don't feel right and you just aren't sure what kind of help you need. Our clinicians will listen, ask good questions, and look at problems with you to figure out how to get you back on the path where you want to be. We work with individuals and committed couples, as well as those practicing consensual non-monagamy. While communication skills and sexuality issues are a significant part of our clientele, we also work with many patients with depression, anxiety, or grief as their presenting complaint.
Whether it is talk therapy, journaling, homework assignments, Imago therapy, mindfulness or somatic treatments like EMDR and Brainspotting, we work together with you to find what helps you best.
At Boston Center for Couples and Sexuality, we recognize that while all humans struggle with one issue or another, at one time or another, it can be difficult to seek help and support. Expectations that you might have of yourself or expectations that you think or KNOW others have of you can really weigh you down when life gets busy. Sometimes you know exactly what you need help with, and other times, things just don't feel right and you just aren't sure what kind of help you need. Our clinicians will listen, ask good questions, and look at problems with you to figure out how to get you back on the path where you want to be. We work with individuals and committed couples, as well as those practicing consensual non-monagamy. While communication skills and sexuality issues are a significant part of our clientele, we also work with many patients with depression, anxiety, or grief as their presenting complaint.
(781) 539-9219 View (781) 539-9219
Photo of Lisa Cobia van Oossanen, Lisa Van oossanen, LICSW, LCSW, RMT, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Cobia van Oossanen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Lisa Van oossanen, LICSW, LCSW, RMT, MSW
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02420
Waitlist for new clients
She combines the mind/body healing approaches using ARC, ACT, EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, IFS, Reiki, KAP, and Somatic theories.
Lisa is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with a healing framework based on trauma resolution through self-compassion, self-awareness, empowered choices, inner-knowing, trust, intuition, purpose, authenticity, joy, and more profound connection with self, others, and life. Her knowledge base and passion are focused on clients who have a history of trauma.
She combines the mind/body healing approaches using ARC, ACT, EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, IFS, Reiki, KAP, and Somatic theories.
Lisa is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW) with a healing framework based on trauma resolution through self-compassion, self-awareness, empowered choices, inner-knowing, trust, intuition, purpose, authenticity, joy, and more profound connection with self, others, and life. Her knowledge base and passion are focused on clients who have a history of trauma.
(339) 201-6433 View (339) 201-6433
Photo of Alexa Armon, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexa Armon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Somerville, MA 02144  (Online Only)
I pull from many different frameworks including Attachment-focused, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, IFS and EMDR.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I've honed my skills in trauma therapy under the tutelage of Bessel van der Kolk, the author of "The Body Keeps The Score." I specialize in trauma and work with clients from all different paths of life and backgrounds who are dealing with a broad array of matters including anxiety/depression, major life transitions, body image, relationship issues, self-discovery overall healing. My goal is to provide a space in which you feel seen, heard and understood as that is what truly creates opportunities for growth, reflection and introspection.
I pull from many different frameworks including Attachment-focused, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, IFS and EMDR.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I've honed my skills in trauma therapy under the tutelage of Bessel van der Kolk, the author of "The Body Keeps The Score." I specialize in trauma and work with clients from all different paths of life and backgrounds who are dealing with a broad array of matters including anxiety/depression, major life transitions, body image, relationship issues, self-discovery overall healing. My goal is to provide a space in which you feel seen, heard and understood as that is what truly creates opportunities for growth, reflection and introspection.
(617) 249-7747 View (617) 249-7747
Photo of Carolyn D Greene, PsyD, Psychologist
Carolyn D Greene
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
I can apply specialty treatment (EMDR) to treat trauma as well as other life concerns.
Welcome! I am here to offer you help through life’s most difficult transitions. Anxiety, depression, past trauma, and current stressors can weigh us down. Sometimes, even positive changes, like pregnancy and postpartum, can be hard. While I can help clients with a variety of issues, my specialties include treatment of trauma/PTSD as well as treatment of mood and anxiety disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
I can apply specialty treatment (EMDR) to treat trauma as well as other life concerns.
Welcome! I am here to offer you help through life’s most difficult transitions. Anxiety, depression, past trauma, and current stressors can weigh us down. Sometimes, even positive changes, like pregnancy and postpartum, can be hard. While I can help clients with a variety of issues, my specialties include treatment of trauma/PTSD as well as treatment of mood and anxiety disorders during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
(339) 215-3882 View (339) 215-3882
Photo of Catherine Harvey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, MA 01803
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
(339) 675-2228 View (339) 675-2228
Photo of Dr. Lauren Leone, DAT, LMHC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Dr. Lauren Leone
Counselor, DAT, LMHC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Medford, MA 02155  (Online Only)
In your therapy, we might work through talking, using somatic approaches (like mindfulness or breathing exercises), using EMDR therapy, and/or bringing art making into our work—and we’ll work to find the right balance of these options for you.
In my work as a mental health counselor and art therapist, I help adults who experience anxiety and depression; chronic stress, burnout, and imposter syndrome; LGBTQIA+ issues; dis/ability and chronic illness and the impact of medical conditions on mental health; and intersecting issues related to cultural and social identity. I also support people in exploring how their health is impacted by economic, political, cultural, and historical conditions. I bring a collaborative approach, rooted in liberation and creativity, to guide you in healing and making changes.
In your therapy, we might work through talking, using somatic approaches (like mindfulness or breathing exercises), using EMDR therapy, and/or bringing art making into our work—and we’ll work to find the right balance of these options for you.
In my work as a mental health counselor and art therapist, I help adults who experience anxiety and depression; chronic stress, burnout, and imposter syndrome; LGBTQIA+ issues; dis/ability and chronic illness and the impact of medical conditions on mental health; and intersecting issues related to cultural and social identity. I also support people in exploring how their health is impacted by economic, political, cultural, and historical conditions. I bring a collaborative approach, rooted in liberation and creativity, to guide you in healing and making changes.
(617) 675-5658 View (617) 675-5658
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Woburn, MA 01801
I am trained in EMDR, an evidence-based trauma treatment model designed to reprocess memories that may be leading to symptoms.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
I am trained in EMDR, an evidence-based trauma treatment model designed to reprocess memories that may be leading to symptoms.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
(339) 500-6423 View (339) 500-6423
Photo of Rebecca Boyko, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Boyko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Winchester, MA 01890
Welcome to Bridge to Healing Psychotherapy. My practice is centered around helping you heal from all forms of trauma, loss and life struggles. Healing is always possible...for you, for your relationships, and ultimately for your life. With 19 years of experience and extensive training in evidence-based treatment modalities such as EMDR, attachment therapy, and somatics, my approach utilizes curiosity, creativity, a sense of humor, self-disclosure and most importantly compassion to help you discover these same resources within yourself and reveal your own unique path to healing and life's purpose.
Welcome to Bridge to Healing Psychotherapy. My practice is centered around helping you heal from all forms of trauma, loss and life struggles. Healing is always possible...for you, for your relationships, and ultimately for your life. With 19 years of experience and extensive training in evidence-based treatment modalities such as EMDR, attachment therapy, and somatics, my approach utilizes curiosity, creativity, a sense of humor, self-disclosure and most importantly compassion to help you discover these same resources within yourself and reveal your own unique path to healing and life's purpose.
(781) 463-5030 View (781) 463-5030
Photo of Jenny White Kuliesis, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenny White Kuliesis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476  (Online Only)
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and use this as my primary framework in sessions along with aspects of Attachment Theory and EMDR.
As your collaborator, my focus is on your strengths, your challenges, and your goals. You may feel stuck and not sure how you'll navigate a transition such as the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an alarming diagnosis, or a career disruption. Together, we will work to move away from negative patterns that limit your growth and move towards greater self-compassion. My job is to create a place where you can express your full range of emotions in every session. While tears in therapy may be expected, do not discount the healing power of laughter.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and use this as my primary framework in sessions along with aspects of Attachment Theory and EMDR.
As your collaborator, my focus is on your strengths, your challenges, and your goals. You may feel stuck and not sure how you'll navigate a transition such as the death of a loved one, the end of a relationship, an alarming diagnosis, or a career disruption. Together, we will work to move away from negative patterns that limit your growth and move towards greater self-compassion. My job is to create a place where you can express your full range of emotions in every session. While tears in therapy may be expected, do not discount the healing power of laughter.
(339) 215-3466 View (339) 215-3466
Photo of Leza M Sarrouf - Leza M. Sarrouf, LICSW, LLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leza M. Sarrouf, LICSW, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, MA 02474  (Online Only)
Healing from difficult life circumstances can and does happen. For 20 years I have worked with adolescents, adults and families to help them heal from traumatic stress, transform their lives, and become their best selves. Utilizing creative and holistic interventions from an array of therapeutic modalities, such as IFS, EMDR, Solution Focused & TF-CBT, I work with individuals suffering from PTSD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, poor self-esteem, behavioral disruptions and interpersonal conflict. I believe that everyone has the capacity and strength to overcome their past and live to their fullest potential.
Healing from difficult life circumstances can and does happen. For 20 years I have worked with adolescents, adults and families to help them heal from traumatic stress, transform their lives, and become their best selves. Utilizing creative and holistic interventions from an array of therapeutic modalities, such as IFS, EMDR, Solution Focused & TF-CBT, I work with individuals suffering from PTSD, depression, anxiety, adjustment disorders, poor self-esteem, behavioral disruptions and interpersonal conflict. I believe that everyone has the capacity and strength to overcome their past and live to their fullest potential.
(857) 226-9078 View (857) 226-9078
Photo of Catherine Harvey, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catherine Harvey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Medford, MA 02155
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
Additionally, I am currently undergoing certification in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a proven treatment for trauma disorders.
My ideal client would be someone who is ready and willing to participate in treatment. I am comfortable with an array of different diagnoses and struggles. Their needs would include working towards tangible goals that we are able to breakdown in the treatment setting. They may want to work on self-esteem, depression, anxiety, PTSD symptoms etc. They would want to minimize their symptoms and improve everyday functioning. The goal would ultimately be to no longer need treatment as they have reached their goals.
(857) 858-6939 View (857) 858-6939
Photo of Jennifer Fagundes, LICSW, RYT-200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Fagundes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RYT-200
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cambridge, MA 02140  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
The modalities that I enjoy using the most are Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and yoga based movement to develop mind-body connection.
The strongest people have the vulnerability ask for help. Whether you recently feel stuck or believe that you past is holding you back from truly experiencing the present, I can assist you in your healing. I enjoy working with clients that have been survivors of all types of trauma, experience grief, have addictive tendencies or struggle in relationships. Clients would be best served by me when they are motivated to make internal and external changes in order to create more harmony in their lives. Ultimately, I would like you to leave our sessions feeling good about our relationship and the relationship you have with yourself.
The modalities that I enjoy using the most are Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and yoga based movement to develop mind-body connection.
The strongest people have the vulnerability ask for help. Whether you recently feel stuck or believe that you past is holding you back from truly experiencing the present, I can assist you in your healing. I enjoy working with clients that have been survivors of all types of trauma, experience grief, have addictive tendencies or struggle in relationships. Clients would be best served by me when they are motivated to make internal and external changes in order to create more harmony in their lives. Ultimately, I would like you to leave our sessions feeling good about our relationship and the relationship you have with yourself.
(857) 763-2138 View (857) 763-2138
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.