EMDR Therapists in Beltsville, MD

Photo of Achieving Joy - Achieving Joy Hampton Roads, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Achieving Joy Hampton Roads
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beltsville, MD 20705
Achieving Joy's mission is to help you achieve the life and love you desire. We help you get embolden to be authentically who you are and open yourself to receive the love, joy, peace, and wellness, that exist after you release old patterns (even the ones that has sustained your parents or caregivers) that are not working for you.
Achieving Joy's mission is to help you achieve the life and love you desire. We help you get embolden to be authentically who you are and open yourself to receive the love, joy, peace, and wellness, that exist after you release old patterns (even the ones that has sustained your parents or caregivers) that are not working for you.
(757) 280-4385 View (757) 280-4385
Photo of Joy Petway - Achieving Joy, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Achieving Joy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
Beltsville, MD 20705
Achieving Joy's counseling boutique is created to improve the emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of the LGBTQ community. Our counselor's are diverse, licensed and are active participants within the community. We provide a safe space for individuals and couples to explore monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, complete pre-marital counseling, and create action steps to reach your life goals. We also provide group counseling, workshops, and annual conferences. Our purpose is to help you create a plan of action to achieve your joy.
Achieving Joy's counseling boutique is created to improve the emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness of the LGBTQ community. Our counselor's are diverse, licensed and are active participants within the community. We provide a safe space for individuals and couples to explore monogamous and non-monogamous relationships, complete pre-marital counseling, and create action steps to reach your life goals. We also provide group counseling, workshops, and annual conferences. Our purpose is to help you create a plan of action to achieve your joy.
(301) 691-3874 View (301) 691-3874
Photo of Anel Coss, LCPC
Anel Coss
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Beltsville, MD 20704  (Online Only)
Hi, I’m Anel. Taking the first steps to find and initiate contact with a therapist can be exciting but also daunting! I’m glad that you’re taking initial steps. My goal is to make therapy approachable and manageable. I work with a variety of mental health needs and specialize in helping people who experience anxiety, social anxiety, depression or have experienced trauma. I also help clients who struggle with self-esteem, relationship challenges, or have difficulty managing life and work stressors. I strive to provide a safe and authentic space as you pace through your goals and start seeing change!
Hi, I’m Anel. Taking the first steps to find and initiate contact with a therapist can be exciting but also daunting! I’m glad that you’re taking initial steps. My goal is to make therapy approachable and manageable. I work with a variety of mental health needs and specialize in helping people who experience anxiety, social anxiety, depression or have experienced trauma. I also help clients who struggle with self-esteem, relationship challenges, or have difficulty managing life and work stressors. I strive to provide a safe and authentic space as you pace through your goals and start seeing change!
(410) 885-1881 View (410) 885-1881
Photo of Shayla Gray, LMFT, LCMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shayla Gray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beltsville, MD 20704  (Online Only)
I believe people strive to live the best life they possibly can. At times, life can throw in a few challenges and reaching out for help is not always easy. I am here to help! Together we can face those challenges and get you closer to your goals. I work with adults, families, and couples who may have experienced trauma or who may feel overwhelmed, lonely, worried, hopeless, afraid, worthless, angry or unmotivated. My style of therapy is targeted to help people heal and grow into the best version of themselves. Wondering where to start? Contact me for a free consultation.
I believe people strive to live the best life they possibly can. At times, life can throw in a few challenges and reaching out for help is not always easy. I am here to help! Together we can face those challenges and get you closer to your goals. I work with adults, families, and couples who may have experienced trauma or who may feel overwhelmed, lonely, worried, hopeless, afraid, worthless, angry or unmotivated. My style of therapy is targeted to help people heal and grow into the best version of themselves. Wondering where to start? Contact me for a free consultation.
(434) 566-0764 View (434) 566-0764
Photo of Shendi Ramli-Hernandez, LCPC, CCTP II, SEP, Counselor
Shendi Ramli-Hernandez
Counselor, LCPC, CCTP II, SEP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Beltsville, MD 20705
Not accepting new clients
Over the years, I've heard many clients express a sense of imprisonment within their bodies or being 'stuck.' One client would describe "being everywhere but nowhere" to portray the discord between the mind and body. Furthermore, I have encountered numerous clients who went through multiple therapy sessions in the past---only to find out that the change was not enough or even uncomfortable and confusing. As for young clients, their unspoken pain manifests in traces of scars from self-harm and other destructive behaviors. For many of them, the traumatic past has become their present stories.
Over the years, I've heard many clients express a sense of imprisonment within their bodies or being 'stuck.' One client would describe "being everywhere but nowhere" to portray the discord between the mind and body. Furthermore, I have encountered numerous clients who went through multiple therapy sessions in the past---only to find out that the change was not enough or even uncomfortable and confusing. As for young clients, their unspoken pain manifests in traces of scars from self-harm and other destructive behaviors. For many of them, the traumatic past has become their present stories.
(240) 470-7147 View (240) 470-7147

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Daniel Lozoya, LMSW
Daniel Lozoya
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lanham, MD 20706
I use EMDR and TF-CBT for trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for depression, ADHD, and anxiety, motivational interviewing/SBIRT for alcoholism and drug use/abuse, Attachment theory for relationships issues.
I want to take a moment to acknowledge something important: life can be overwhelming. Many of us face moments when we feel lost, uncertain, or just plain stuck. If you’re reading this, know that it’s okay to seek help—it’s a brave and important step! I will provide a safe space to explore your feelings, gain clarity, and develop tools to navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, daily stressors, relationships, or just feeling disconnected, I’m here for you. I’m passionate about supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds. Fluent in Spanish, Hablo español, estoy aquí para ayudarte.
I use EMDR and TF-CBT for trauma, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) for depression, ADHD, and anxiety, motivational interviewing/SBIRT for alcoholism and drug use/abuse, Attachment theory for relationships issues.
I want to take a moment to acknowledge something important: life can be overwhelming. Many of us face moments when we feel lost, uncertain, or just plain stuck. If you’re reading this, know that it’s okay to seek help—it’s a brave and important step! I will provide a safe space to explore your feelings, gain clarity, and develop tools to navigate life’s challenges. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, trauma, depression, daily stressors, relationships, or just feeling disconnected, I’m here for you. I’m passionate about supporting individuals from diverse backgrounds. Fluent in Spanish, Hablo español, estoy aquí para ayudarte.
(844) 578-2139 View (844) 578-2139
Photo of Marika Martin, PhD, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marika Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LCMFT
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years' experience helping couples with communication and conflict problems. I use a variety of techniques to restore emotional connection and teach skills that promote a solid, happy relationship. Therapy starts with a thorough assessment to pinpoint strengths and stress points of each person and the relationship. I help premarital couples prepare for marriage using a 4-session, private program called Happily Ever After, which includes testing and a workbook. I offer a brief divorce prevention course to help couples decide if their relationship can be saved. I also use EMDR to work with clients healing from trauma.
I have over 20 years' experience helping couples with communication and conflict problems. I use a variety of techniques to restore emotional connection and teach skills that promote a solid, happy relationship. Therapy starts with a thorough assessment to pinpoint strengths and stress points of each person and the relationship. I help premarital couples prepare for marriage using a 4-session, private program called Happily Ever After, which includes testing and a workbook. I offer a brief divorce prevention course to help couples decide if their relationship can be saved. I also use EMDR to work with clients healing from trauma.
(202) 858-3969 View (202) 858-3969
Photo of James DeMaio, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James DeMaio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
College Park, MD 20740  (Online Only)
I take a trauma-informed approach to my therapy and utilize a strength based approach using Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, CBT, and psychoeducation as my primary therapy methods.
Are you struggling with stress from work, politics, family relationships, addictions, or life transitions? Have you suffered loss of a child, parent, friend or significant other? You don't need to bare your burden alone. Life is filled with ups and downs, and therapy can be a valuable tool in building upon your own strengths to cope with challenges. I've worked in family therapy, post-incarceration, addictions, job searching and job coaching, prior to turning to individual therapy. I am experienced working with clients dealing with loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction.
I take a trauma-informed approach to my therapy and utilize a strength based approach using Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, CBT, and psychoeducation as my primary therapy methods.
Are you struggling with stress from work, politics, family relationships, addictions, or life transitions? Have you suffered loss of a child, parent, friend or significant other? You don't need to bare your burden alone. Life is filled with ups and downs, and therapy can be a valuable tool in building upon your own strengths to cope with challenges. I've worked in family therapy, post-incarceration, addictions, job searching and job coaching, prior to turning to individual therapy. I am experienced working with clients dealing with loss, trauma, anxiety, depression, and addiction.
(410) 936-3161 View (410) 936-3161
Photo of Tiffon Bryant, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Tiffon Bryant
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenbelt, MD 20770  (Online Only)
I utilize practices such as CBT, EMDR, Person-Centered and Solution-Focused interventions to help others improve their overall well-being.
Hi! My name is Tiffon and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over a decade of work experience in the mental health and human services field. I provide individual counseling for those seeking to navigate issues associated with trauma, emotional and behavioral health disorders.
I utilize practices such as CBT, EMDR, Person-Centered and Solution-Focused interventions to help others improve their overall well-being.
Hi! My name is Tiffon and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor with over a decade of work experience in the mental health and human services field. I provide individual counseling for those seeking to navigate issues associated with trauma, emotional and behavioral health disorders.
(410) 881-8159 View (410) 881-8159
Photo of Satmah J Davis, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Satmah J Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20726  (Online Only)
I am an approved Clinical Supervisor, and Christian counselor, and am trained in EMDR and many other evidence-based interventions.
I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience with children, families, and couples. Within the therapeutic setting, my primary goal is to ensure overall progress to “work myself out of work.”
I am an approved Clinical Supervisor, and Christian counselor, and am trained in EMDR and many other evidence-based interventions.
I am a Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience with children, families, and couples. Within the therapeutic setting, my primary goal is to ensure overall progress to “work myself out of work.”
(888) 802-4215 View (888) 802-4215
Photo of Symone Colquitt, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Symone Colquitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740  (Online Only)
Advance training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) helps clients recover from trauma and difficult life experiences.
Over twenty years extensive experience with specialized evidence-based treatment strategies, I help clients in search of solutions to relationship difficulty, traumatic life events and challenging transitions. Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, hopeless, and want to work toward positive changes? My expertise in systemic relational therapy for individuals, couples, and families helps to identify negative patterns, incorporate helpful skills and gain relief from relationship distress. Safe support is given to those living with unprocessed complex trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness demands, grief/historic loss, relational distress.
Advance training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) helps clients recover from trauma and difficult life experiences.
Over twenty years extensive experience with specialized evidence-based treatment strategies, I help clients in search of solutions to relationship difficulty, traumatic life events and challenging transitions. Feeling overwhelmed, stuck, hopeless, and want to work toward positive changes? My expertise in systemic relational therapy for individuals, couples, and families helps to identify negative patterns, incorporate helpful skills and gain relief from relationship distress. Safe support is given to those living with unprocessed complex trauma, anxiety, depression, chronic illness demands, grief/historic loss, relational distress.
(240) 652-2723 View (240) 652-2723
Photo of Dr. David Defoe, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Dr. David Defoe
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Laurel, MD 20708
I offer full-day EMDR intensives for current clients of Imara only.
Why struggle through life's challenges alone? Why not seek help today. I believe that each individual client has within themselves the power to change, live their ideal intended life, and maintain satisfying relationships. The counseling experience should provide an environment that is supportive, nonjudgemental, safe, and encouraging. Over my 15+ years of experience I have been known to challenge my clients to confront their issues, and develop the inner fortitude to deal with life's many challenges. If you're dealing with grief from the loss of a loved one, trauma, battling depression, anxiety, or stress, I can help.
I offer full-day EMDR intensives for current clients of Imara only.
Why struggle through life's challenges alone? Why not seek help today. I believe that each individual client has within themselves the power to change, live their ideal intended life, and maintain satisfying relationships. The counseling experience should provide an environment that is supportive, nonjudgemental, safe, and encouraging. Over my 15+ years of experience I have been known to challenge my clients to confront their issues, and develop the inner fortitude to deal with life's many challenges. If you're dealing with grief from the loss of a loved one, trauma, battling depression, anxiety, or stress, I can help.
(240) 293-5631 View (240) 293-5631
Photo of Maryam Fakhruddin, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Maryam Fakhruddin
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20742
My passion lies in helping female clients manage conditions such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and PTSD. I use a range of therapeutic approaches, including somatic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and EMDR. My practice is grounded in a client-centered, anti-oppressive lens, ensuring a safe and inclusive space. My focus is on women's health. I take only women 18+ older clients.
My passion lies in helping female clients manage conditions such as anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and PTSD. I use a range of therapeutic approaches, including somatic therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, compassion-focused therapy, and EMDR. My practice is grounded in a client-centered, anti-oppressive lens, ensuring a safe and inclusive space. My focus is on women's health. I take only women 18+ older clients.
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Photo of Katherine McCauley-Morrow, LCPC, Counselor
Katherine McCauley-Morrow
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bowie, MD 20715
Katherine McCauley-Morrow is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2021. She has a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health counseling and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in sociology. She is also trained in EMDR therapy and couples therapy approaches. Katherine believes in supporting clients on their journey to mental wellness. Her therapeutic approach partners with clients to encourage healing, growth, and education on how to combat the struggles life throws at us. Her goal is to help clients experience an increase in their quality of life.
Katherine McCauley-Morrow is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Maryland who has been practicing since 2021. She has a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health counseling and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in sociology. She is also trained in EMDR therapy and couples therapy approaches. Katherine believes in supporting clients on their journey to mental wellness. Her therapeutic approach partners with clients to encourage healing, growth, and education on how to combat the struggles life throws at us. Her goal is to help clients experience an increase in their quality of life.
(410) 514-3084 View (410) 514-3084
Photo of Tammie Yancey - Yancey's Counseling Center LLC, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Yancey's Counseling Center LLC
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowie, MD 20717
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy through the Institute for Creative Mindfulness.
" If you are struggling trying to understand why you are feeling less satisfied, feeling depressed, anxious, as well as stress from family dynamics. Maybe you've had some pretty traumatic experiences that are affecting areas of life and you need help with regaining a sense of peace, I can help.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy through the Institute for Creative Mindfulness.
" If you are struggling trying to understand why you are feeling less satisfied, feeling depressed, anxious, as well as stress from family dynamics. Maybe you've had some pretty traumatic experiences that are affecting areas of life and you need help with regaining a sense of peace, I can help.
(614) 714-4974 View (614) 714-4974
Photo of Genevieve Gaisie - GY Counseling, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
GY Counseling, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Laurel, MD 20707  (Online Only)
We specialize in CBT, DBT, EMDR, Life Coaching & have expertise in Mood & Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Parenting Skills, & Stress/Behavioral Management.
Immediate sessions available. Please visit: www.gycounseling.com to request an appointment. GY Counseling, LLC is a thriving mental health group private practice that is owned by a Black woman Psychologist. We work with diverse clientele who are in the mist of grief/loss, life transitions, and emotional challenges, to achieve a more effective and healthier outlook on your life. We establish rapport and utilize the therapeutic relationship to promote the change process. With compassion and understanding, we work with individuals to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
We specialize in CBT, DBT, EMDR, Life Coaching & have expertise in Mood & Anxiety Disorders, ADHD, Parenting Skills, & Stress/Behavioral Management.
Immediate sessions available. Please visit: www.gycounseling.com to request an appointment. GY Counseling, LLC is a thriving mental health group private practice that is owned by a Black woman Psychologist. We work with diverse clientele who are in the mist of grief/loss, life transitions, and emotional challenges, to achieve a more effective and healthier outlook on your life. We establish rapport and utilize the therapeutic relationship to promote the change process. With compassion and understanding, we work with individuals to help them build on their strengths and attain the personal growth they are committed to accomplishing.
(443) 267-9685 View (443) 267-9685
Photo of Rachel Leigh Wills - ADDvantage Counseling, LLC. , LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
ADDvantage Counseling, LLC.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverdale, MD 20737
We provide individual, conjoint, family and group counseling, as well as mindfulness, Animal Assisted, EMDR, narrative, art therapies and process groups on ADHD, recovery, creativity, etc.
We are passionate about person-centered, customized counseling. We're licensed in MD, VA, DC, DE and OH. and see clients both virtually and in-person (based on counselor's preference). Do you have ADHD and are looking for a better way to work with it? Or are you seeking an ADHD evaluation? Maybe you're in recovery or are concerned that your drinking or substance use is a problem, or you're struggling with low self-esteem; poor work/life balance; major life transitions; personality disorders or trauma. Some clinicians at our practice also see children, families and seniors.
We provide individual, conjoint, family and group counseling, as well as mindfulness, Animal Assisted, EMDR, narrative, art therapies and process groups on ADHD, recovery, creativity, etc.
We are passionate about person-centered, customized counseling. We're licensed in MD, VA, DC, DE and OH. and see clients both virtually and in-person (based on counselor's preference). Do you have ADHD and are looking for a better way to work with it? Or are you seeking an ADHD evaluation? Maybe you're in recovery or are concerned that your drinking or substance use is a problem, or you're struggling with low self-esteem; poor work/life balance; major life transitions; personality disorders or trauma. Some clinicians at our practice also see children, families and seniors.
(240) 690-5784 View (240) 690-5784
Photo of Ellen Leigh Iscoe, PhD, SEP, Psychologist
Ellen Leigh Iscoe
Psychologist, PhD, SEP
Verified Verified
College Park, MD 20740
In the safety of the psychotherapy space we will use body-based approaches like Somatic Experiencing, Focusing, and EMDR in addition to talk therapy.
Hello, welcome! I hope to help you find a sense of comfort with who you are, identify what kind of life you seek, and help you navigate a path to get there. Maybe you struggle because of you how you present to the world, how you process information, or a trauma you experienced. Maybe you feel stuck and aren't sure why. Whatever brings you to therapy, I will meet you with compassion for your experience, respect for how you got to your current situation, and a certainty that together we can help you make changes, feel better, and create the sort of life you want.
In the safety of the psychotherapy space we will use body-based approaches like Somatic Experiencing, Focusing, and EMDR in addition to talk therapy.
Hello, welcome! I hope to help you find a sense of comfort with who you are, identify what kind of life you seek, and help you navigate a path to get there. Maybe you struggle because of you how you present to the world, how you process information, or a trauma you experienced. Maybe you feel stuck and aren't sure why. Whatever brings you to therapy, I will meet you with compassion for your experience, respect for how you got to your current situation, and a certainty that together we can help you make changes, feel better, and create the sort of life you want.
(240) 623-5353 View (240) 623-5353
Photo of Tamia Pleasants - NyLu Therapeutic Solutions, LLC, LCPC, BC-TMH, NCC, Counselor
NyLu Therapeutic Solutions, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, BC-TMH, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
North Laurel, MD 20723
NyLu Clinicians are well versed in using research-based methods such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, and others, as vehicles for healing and unburdening maladaptive patterns/behaviors.
Trauma (Big T and Little T). Mood dysregulation. Postpartum depression or anxiety. Grief/loss. Shrinking yourself. Low self-esteem/self-worth. Toxic relationships/behaviors. If any/all of these are your current believed truth; or you are experiencing feelings too overwhelming to handle alone - it's time to seek out professional help. Together, we will get to the ROOT of your anger, depression, anxiety, and whatever else is hindering your journey to YOU! Inquire here: www.nylutherapeuticsolutions.com/inquiry-client
NyLu Clinicians are well versed in using research-based methods such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, and others, as vehicles for healing and unburdening maladaptive patterns/behaviors.
Trauma (Big T and Little T). Mood dysregulation. Postpartum depression or anxiety. Grief/loss. Shrinking yourself. Low self-esteem/self-worth. Toxic relationships/behaviors. If any/all of these are your current believed truth; or you are experiencing feelings too overwhelming to handle alone - it's time to seek out professional help. Together, we will get to the ROOT of your anger, depression, anxiety, and whatever else is hindering your journey to YOU! Inquire here: www.nylutherapeuticsolutions.com/inquiry-client
(301) 349-1570 View (301) 349-1570
Photo of Michelle Glenn,  LCSW-C, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Glenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Silver Spring, MD 20906
I use EMDR to create new pathways in the brain, allowing information that might have gotten stuck the opportunity to begin to move forward, so memories won't be as triggering.
I am passionate about helping my clients erase generational curses, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and anger, so they can go beyond surviving and enter into a new phase of life, where thriving begins. During intake, we discuss your needs and collaborate to create a pathway to help you achieve your goals.
I use EMDR to create new pathways in the brain, allowing information that might have gotten stuck the opportunity to begin to move forward, so memories won't be as triggering.
I am passionate about helping my clients erase generational curses, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and anger, so they can go beyond surviving and enter into a new phase of life, where thriving begins. During intake, we discuss your needs and collaborate to create a pathway to help you achieve your goals.
(240) 301-3657 View (240) 301-3657
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.