EMDR Therapists in Tewksbury, MA

Photo of Kristin Bramante, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Kristin Bramante
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tewksbury, MA 01876  (Online Only)
As a licensed mental health counselor, I offer an effective therapy called Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), a Gold Standard treatment for trauma.
Are you feeling like you have lost your balance? Are you avoiding people, places, or situations because of anxiety, depression, or a recent trauma? Do you feel like you’re walking on eggshells in your relationships because you aren’t able to express how you really feel? Maybe you experienced childhood trauma and you need help to process and understand what happened to you so that you can create a different narrative for your life. All of these situations can be very painful and reaching out to a stranger is courageous step! I strive to create a trusting and nonjudgemental space for you. I hope you will take a moment to call.
As a licensed mental health counselor, I offer an effective therapy called Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), a Gold Standard treatment for trauma.
Are you feeling like you have lost your balance? Are you avoiding people, places, or situations because of anxiety, depression, or a recent trauma? Do you feel like you’re walking on eggshells in your relationships because you aren’t able to express how you really feel? Maybe you experienced childhood trauma and you need help to process and understand what happened to you so that you can create a different narrative for your life. All of these situations can be very painful and reaching out to a stranger is courageous step! I strive to create a trusting and nonjudgemental space for you. I hope you will take a moment to call.
(508) 439-6149 View (508) 439-6149
Photo of Danielle Lovejoy, MSW, LCSW MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Danielle Lovejoy
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, LCSW MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tewksbury, MA 01876  (Online Only)
We will use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, EMDR and other techniques to help you work through these experiences.
Emotional and mental health is just as important to us as breathing is. Emotional and mental wellbeing is so important to overall well being. I can assist you with working through the emotional situations in life, the stress in life and the changes that happen through moving forward.
We will use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, EMDR and other techniques to help you work through these experiences.
Emotional and mental health is just as important to us as breathing is. Emotional and mental wellbeing is so important to overall well being. I can assist you with working through the emotional situations in life, the stress in life and the changes that happen through moving forward.
(603) 931-4102 View (603) 931-4102
Photo of Violeta Gonzalez Fowler, LMHC, LCMHC, , NCC, Counselor
Violeta Gonzalez Fowler
Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tewksbury, MA 01876  (Online Only)
Some of my specific trainings and certifications include: ISSTD (International Society of Trauma and Dissociation), Gestalt Institute in Cleveland, ASCH ( American Society of Clinical Hypnosis) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Professional Counselor who has been practicing for the past 15 years and I am passionate in helping others. I am committed to providing a nurturing, non-judgemental environment where you can learn about yourself and your relationship with others. I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, dissociation, relationship issues, mood changes, obsessive compulsive disorders.
Some of my specific trainings and certifications include: ISSTD (International Society of Trauma and Dissociation), Gestalt Institute in Cleveland, ASCH ( American Society of Clinical Hypnosis) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Hello and thank you for visiting my profile. I am a Professional Counselor who has been practicing for the past 15 years and I am passionate in helping others. I am committed to providing a nurturing, non-judgemental environment where you can learn about yourself and your relationship with others. I have worked with individuals with anxiety, depression, trauma, dissociation, relationship issues, mood changes, obsessive compulsive disorders.
(508) 403-9136 View (508) 403-9136
Photo of Julie Fielding - Mind Spruce Counseling, PLLC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mind Spruce Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Tewksbury, MA 01876
I acknowledge the courage it requires to begin a therapeutic journey. When you take that step, my aim is to provide you with a secure and empowering environment where we can collaborate. Respecting and honoring your unique story is of utmost importance to me, and I prioritize understanding your treatment goals. Above all, my hope is that our collaborative efforts will equip you with the skills and confidence to effectively navigate life's challenges and create a positive future.
I acknowledge the courage it requires to begin a therapeutic journey. When you take that step, my aim is to provide you with a secure and empowering environment where we can collaborate. Respecting and honoring your unique story is of utmost importance to me, and I prioritize understanding your treatment goals. Above all, my hope is that our collaborative efforts will equip you with the skills and confidence to effectively navigate life's challenges and create a positive future.
(978) 631-3100 View (978) 631-3100
Photo of Efrain Talavera - Insight Center for Behavioral Health, MS, LMHC, LADC, CADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Insight Center for Behavioral Health
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LMHC, LADC, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tewksbury, MA 01876
I have many years of experience successfully working with vulnerable populations in outpatient, inpatient, and community-based settings. I have worked with diverse populations, individually and in-group settings. My work is grounded in the belief that change is achieved when the therapeutic relationship cultivates an individual’s awareness of self and facilitates there freedom from emotional pain through the application of the psycho-therapeutic process and compassionate listening. I work with teens and adult individuals who come from a variety of cultures, ethnicity, sexuality and gender expressions.
I have many years of experience successfully working with vulnerable populations in outpatient, inpatient, and community-based settings. I have worked with diverse populations, individually and in-group settings. My work is grounded in the belief that change is achieved when the therapeutic relationship cultivates an individual’s awareness of self and facilitates there freedom from emotional pain through the application of the psycho-therapeutic process and compassionate listening. I work with teens and adult individuals who come from a variety of cultures, ethnicity, sexuality and gender expressions.
(978) 598-3802 View (978) 598-3802
Photo of Virginia Early, LMHC, Counselor
Virginia Early
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tewksbury, MA 01876
I am a trauma informed therapist working with adults and teens. I use a variety of modalities to tailor therapy unique to the individual. Are you struggling with change, transition, grief, having a new baby, past traumas, feeling stuck, or divorce? I can teach you skills to make decisions in your best interest. Life is meant to be happy and not lived in fear. Planting seeds can make a big impact on your future. Learn tools to help you navigate depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. The most important relationship we have is the one with ourselves. If you can nurture your mental health that is key to success.
I am a trauma informed therapist working with adults and teens. I use a variety of modalities to tailor therapy unique to the individual. Are you struggling with change, transition, grief, having a new baby, past traumas, feeling stuck, or divorce? I can teach you skills to make decisions in your best interest. Life is meant to be happy and not lived in fear. Planting seeds can make a big impact on your future. Learn tools to help you navigate depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. The most important relationship we have is the one with ourselves. If you can nurture your mental health that is key to success.
(617) 401-0308 View (617) 401-0308

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carmen Pepicelli, LMHC, Counselor
Carmen Pepicelli
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810
Please note that I currently only have openings for upcoming groups, not individual therapy. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and Consultant who specializes in the treatment of trauma and dissociation. I believe that healing from trauma is possible (as opposed to just learning how to cope with post-traumatic symptoms). I consider therapy a collaborative, creative process. Clinically, I am warm, active, innovative and data-driven. I incorporate clinical hypnosis, inner child work, ketamine assisted psychotherapy, TF-CBT, EFT, mindfulness, the FLASH technique and polyvagal exercises into EMDR therapy as needed.
Please note that I currently only have openings for upcoming groups, not individual therapy. I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and Consultant who specializes in the treatment of trauma and dissociation. I believe that healing from trauma is possible (as opposed to just learning how to cope with post-traumatic symptoms). I consider therapy a collaborative, creative process. Clinically, I am warm, active, innovative and data-driven. I incorporate clinical hypnosis, inner child work, ketamine assisted psychotherapy, TF-CBT, EFT, mindfulness, the FLASH technique and polyvagal exercises into EMDR therapy as needed.
(978) 237-4730 View (978) 237-4730
Photo of Carol A Dupre, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol A Dupre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lowell, MA 01852
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a passion for the strength of the human spirit and the resiliency that can accompany it. It is my personal and clinical position that we all possess the innate power and strength to rise above the challenges we as human beings face. Everyone is unique in their own way, and it is my belief that the therapeutic process should be tailored to reflect that. A positive, open and nonjudgmental working-relationship is at the core of the healing journey. I am drawn to the power of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Exposure Prevention Therapy all from a trauma-informed lens.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker with a passion for the strength of the human spirit and the resiliency that can accompany it. It is my personal and clinical position that we all possess the innate power and strength to rise above the challenges we as human beings face. Everyone is unique in their own way, and it is my belief that the therapeutic process should be tailored to reflect that. A positive, open and nonjudgmental working-relationship is at the core of the healing journey. I am drawn to the power of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Exposure Prevention Therapy all from a trauma-informed lens.
(413) 423-0693 View (413) 423-0693
Photo of Kerry Morrison, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerry Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Andover, MA 01810
I use a blend of clinical modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS); Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and other mind/body techniques; DBT; and CBT.
We all have a unique story to tell. Our stories need witnessing, understanding, and even transformation. I believe that therapy provides such a transformative space. It is only in telling our stories, slowing down and recognizing our automatic thoughts and responses that we can reveal our unique inner resources and the truth that we already have everything we need to embrace lives of connection, health, and purpose. It is a creative and collaborative endeavor, navigating internal and external struggles, organizing thoughts and feelings, identifying patterns, and being curious about our own (and each other’s ’) stories.
I use a blend of clinical modalities including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS); Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and other mind/body techniques; DBT; and CBT.
We all have a unique story to tell. Our stories need witnessing, understanding, and even transformation. I believe that therapy provides such a transformative space. It is only in telling our stories, slowing down and recognizing our automatic thoughts and responses that we can reveal our unique inner resources and the truth that we already have everything we need to embrace lives of connection, health, and purpose. It is a creative and collaborative endeavor, navigating internal and external struggles, organizing thoughts and feelings, identifying patterns, and being curious about our own (and each other’s ’) stories.
(508) 501-8203 View (508) 501-8203
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
Wilmington, MA 01887  (Online Only)
With my extensive training in EMDR, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and other holistic approaches, I will help you move from surviving to thriving.
Are you struggling to see your worth in this world, despite being an overachiever? You never let yourself off the hook at work, home, or both. You're also struggling to figure out how you even feel. There's no time in your busy day to even consider it. Most people look at you and think you have it all together, but on the inside you're screaming. You feel like there is a missing piece, but you just can't put your finger on it. I help motivated, insightful, and highly sensitive individuals and couples, like you, find the healing they have always deserved.
With my extensive training in EMDR, Emotion-Focused Therapy, and other holistic approaches, I will help you move from surviving to thriving.
Are you struggling to see your worth in this world, despite being an overachiever? You never let yourself off the hook at work, home, or both. You're also struggling to figure out how you even feel. There's no time in your busy day to even consider it. Most people look at you and think you have it all together, but on the inside you're screaming. You feel like there is a missing piece, but you just can't put your finger on it. I help motivated, insightful, and highly sensitive individuals and couples, like you, find the healing they have always deserved.
(413) 359-6679 View (413) 359-6679
Photo of Kathleen R Burke, PhD, RN, CS, Psychologist
Kathleen R Burke
Psychologist, PhD, RN, CS
Verified Verified
Lexington, MA 02420
I provide modalities as appropriate including hypnosis, EMDR, and body based practices.
My clinical work is integrative with the goal of helping an individual, couple, or family become more whole. My clients are diverse; I thoroughly enjoy working with the full age range, from high-energy little ones to quietly reflective older folks. Together we create a space where we can collaborate with curiosity and creative mindfulness, a space where the work of psychotherapy enables clients to tap their strengths and develop psychologically. My ideal clients are receptive to change and courageous.
I provide modalities as appropriate including hypnosis, EMDR, and body based practices.
My clinical work is integrative with the goal of helping an individual, couple, or family become more whole. My clients are diverse; I thoroughly enjoy working with the full age range, from high-energy little ones to quietly reflective older folks. Together we create a space where we can collaborate with curiosity and creative mindfulness, a space where the work of psychotherapy enables clients to tap their strengths and develop psychologically. My ideal clients are receptive to change and courageous.
(781) 428-9051 View (781) 428-9051
Photo of William B Jaffee, PhD, LLC, Psychologist
William B Jaffee
Psychologist, PhD, LLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woburn, MA 01801  (Online Only)
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, mood and substance use disorders in adults and young adults. I am also certified in EMDR. While a grounding in the science of treatment informs all of my work, compassion and empathy are at its foundation. I am a Clinical Instructor of Psychology at the Harvard Medical School and Clinical Associate of Psychology at McLean Hospital.
I am a cognitive-behavioral therapist specializing in the treatment of anxiety, mood and substance use disorders in adults and young adults. I am also certified in EMDR. While a grounding in the science of treatment informs all of my work, compassion and empathy are at its foundation. I am a Clinical Instructor of Psychology at the Harvard Medical School and Clinical Associate of Psychology at McLean Hospital.
(617) 446-3239 View (617) 446-3239
Photo of Ranu Aeron, LICSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ranu Aeron
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Burlington, MA 01803  (Online Only)
I specialize in the areas of Trauma, and I am EMDR certified.
Before we begin our therapy sessions, I want to express my commitment to you. My promise is to ALWAYS put forth my best effort and ALWAYS show up present during our sessions. This dedication reflects my respect for your time and my intention to effectively support your personal growth. My aim is to equip myself with the necessary knowledge and skills that will enable me to provide you with the highest level of support throughout our therapeutic journey. I am a graduate of Boston University with 20+ years of experience in the mental health field. I enjoy working with kids, Preteens, Teenager, Young Adult , Adult - (ages 10 to 50)
I specialize in the areas of Trauma, and I am EMDR certified.
Before we begin our therapy sessions, I want to express my commitment to you. My promise is to ALWAYS put forth my best effort and ALWAYS show up present during our sessions. This dedication reflects my respect for your time and my intention to effectively support your personal growth. My aim is to equip myself with the necessary knowledge and skills that will enable me to provide you with the highest level of support throughout our therapeutic journey. I am a graduate of Boston University with 20+ years of experience in the mental health field. I enjoy working with kids, Preteens, Teenager, Young Adult , Adult - (ages 10 to 50)
(508) 456-5939 View (508) 456-5939
Photo of Marlene M Major, EdD, Psychologist
Marlene M Major
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burlington, MA 01803  (Online Only)
Using EMDR, interpersonal and relational therapy, we will focus on your strengths and the expertise you have about your life to explore options that suit you best now, and what you hope for in the future.
During these trying times we can benefit from a caring, warm, supportive, and knowledgeable person to help with life's challenges such as anxiety, loss/grief, transitions, relationship difficulties, decision making, lack of motivation, identity issues including race, gender, and sexual orientation, and stress that can result in negative feelings including depression.
Using EMDR, interpersonal and relational therapy, we will focus on your strengths and the expertise you have about your life to explore options that suit you best now, and what you hope for in the future.
During these trying times we can benefit from a caring, warm, supportive, and knowledgeable person to help with life's challenges such as anxiety, loss/grief, transitions, relationship difficulties, decision making, lack of motivation, identity issues including race, gender, and sexual orientation, and stress that can result in negative feelings including depression.
(781) 676-3214 View (781) 676-3214
Photo of Bette Jo A. Toppin, MEd, LMHC, CCHT, EMDR, Counselor
Bette Jo A. Toppin
Counselor, MEd, LMHC, CCHT, EMDR
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845
CBT, hypnotherapy, and EMDR allows my clients to find their voice, purpose, freedom and healing.
Telehealth offered - including flexibility to professionals and first responders; Life with mental illness is not easy. So many times, my clients will focus on what is going wrong with their lives, which can cause them to feel self-defeated, empty, and alone. The model of therapy I use offers my clients the skills to look at their lives differently and break out of dysfunctional cycles to achieve an individual state of peace. My toolbox consists of humor, reality, holistic, spirituality, and mindfulness. I also provide counseling services directed towards individuals with maladaptive behaviors and trauma. Now in North Andover, MA
CBT, hypnotherapy, and EMDR allows my clients to find their voice, purpose, freedom and healing.
Telehealth offered - including flexibility to professionals and first responders; Life with mental illness is not easy. So many times, my clients will focus on what is going wrong with their lives, which can cause them to feel self-defeated, empty, and alone. The model of therapy I use offers my clients the skills to look at their lives differently and break out of dysfunctional cycles to achieve an individual state of peace. My toolbox consists of humor, reality, holistic, spirituality, and mindfulness. I also provide counseling services directed towards individuals with maladaptive behaviors and trauma. Now in North Andover, MA
(978) 228-2939 View (978) 228-2939
Photo of Kerry A Rumasuglia, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kerry A Rumasuglia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lowell, MA 01853
I accept BCBS and TUFTS (Commercial only, not mass health) Cost per session may vary for EMDR, Individual or couples.
My desire to facilitate healthy change in others and myself is what drives my passion for the work I do. My approach to counseling involves a focus on developing coping skills, which I will personally practice with you in session. I treat adults, age 18+ for individual or couples counseling. I utilize techniques involving spirituality and mindfulness in order to develop insight into how your thoughts affect various facets of your life. I specialize in offering CBT and EMDR, although I am trained in a variety of techniques. Additionally I have a therapy dog, Toby, who provides emotional support to clients who are interested.
I accept BCBS and TUFTS (Commercial only, not mass health) Cost per session may vary for EMDR, Individual or couples.
My desire to facilitate healthy change in others and myself is what drives my passion for the work I do. My approach to counseling involves a focus on developing coping skills, which I will personally practice with you in session. I treat adults, age 18+ for individual or couples counseling. I utilize techniques involving spirituality and mindfulness in order to develop insight into how your thoughts affect various facets of your life. I specialize in offering CBT and EMDR, although I am trained in a variety of techniques. Additionally I have a therapy dog, Toby, who provides emotional support to clients who are interested.
(978) 295-2698 View (978) 295-2698
Photo of Mary Curlew, LICSW  , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Curlew
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , LCSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, MA 01730
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Maine and Massachusetts with over 20 years experience providing therapy for individuals and groups. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT and have benefitted personally and professionally from mindfulness practices, including trauma-informed yoga and contemplative prayer. In addition, I am a certified Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide and spiritual director. I offer not only evidence-based therapy techniques but also a deep connection to spiritual and wisdom practices for growth and healing.
I am a clinical social worker licensed in Maine and Massachusetts with over 20 years experience providing therapy for individuals and groups. I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT and have benefitted personally and professionally from mindfulness practices, including trauma-informed yoga and contemplative prayer. In addition, I am a certified Kripalu Mindful Outdoor Guide and spiritual director. I offer not only evidence-based therapy techniques but also a deep connection to spiritual and wisdom practices for growth and healing.
(855) 394-4526 View (855) 394-4526
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Woburn, MA 01801
I integrate EMDR with other treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing) to meet the individualized needs of my clients.
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 integrate EMDR with other treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing) to meet the individualized needs of my clients.
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 Maria Lucci, LMHC, Counselor
Maria Lucci
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chelmsford, MA 01824
I utilize a reflective and curious approach that incorporates Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, is influenced by Internal Family Systems, and I am trained in EMDR.
The therapeutic process is one that can be rewarding in so many ways. There are many things that cloud our perception of who we are, including anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing, mood disruptions, relationship challenges, losses, and/or challenges with alcohol, drug use, or other addiction. The experiences of adverse or traumatic events or the impact of a mental health challenge, whether it be your own struggle or that of a loved one, can cause any person to feel lost and alone. There are times in life when we might feel disconnected from who we are as a result of these challenges.
I utilize a reflective and curious approach that incorporates Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, is influenced by Internal Family Systems, and I am trained in EMDR.
The therapeutic process is one that can be rewarding in so many ways. There are many things that cloud our perception of who we are, including anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing, mood disruptions, relationship challenges, losses, and/or challenges with alcohol, drug use, or other addiction. The experiences of adverse or traumatic events or the impact of a mental health challenge, whether it be your own struggle or that of a loved one, can cause any person to feel lost and alone. There are times in life when we might feel disconnected from who we are as a result of these challenges.
(978) 678-8125 View (978) 678-8125
Photo of Theresa Citarella Renna, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
Theresa Citarella Renna
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
Woburn, MA 01801
Limited availability. Theresa believes every human has unique struggles and life lessons to grow from. She shows her empathy and compassion for every client and teaches skills to foster personal empowerment. Schooled in numerous modalities including art therapy, focusing oriented therapy, internal family system, EMDR and mindfulness. Theresa works with her clients to find the interventions that best suit their needs for deeper healing. Theresa’s mission is to help individuals tap into their inner power and inner healing.
Limited availability. Theresa believes every human has unique struggles and life lessons to grow from. She shows her empathy and compassion for every client and teaches skills to foster personal empowerment. Schooled in numerous modalities including art therapy, focusing oriented therapy, internal family system, EMDR and mindfulness. Theresa works with her clients to find the interventions that best suit their needs for deeper healing. Theresa’s mission is to help individuals tap into their inner power and inner healing.
(781) 676-3497 View (781) 676-3497
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.