EMDR Therapists in Glen Burnie, MD

Photo of Kyle Kunkel - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Glen Burnie
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Glen Burnie
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Sarah E Dziwanowski, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah E Dziwanowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21060  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in critical incident stress management, complicated grief treatment, advanced trauma treatment, addictions and EMDR.
I view my work with clients as a collaborative effort. I provide direct and honest feedback while holding space for reflection and exploration. I enjoy working with people who want to learn more about themselves and how to make the changes they desire. People navigating grief, anxiety, depression, trauma and addictions can process their stories, gain a deeper awareness of self and learn healthy coping strategies. My style has been described as warm, compassionate and relatable.
I have training in critical incident stress management, complicated grief treatment, advanced trauma treatment, addictions and EMDR.
I view my work with clients as a collaborative effort. I provide direct and honest feedback while holding space for reflection and exploration. I enjoy working with people who want to learn more about themselves and how to make the changes they desire. People navigating grief, anxiety, depression, trauma and addictions can process their stories, gain a deeper awareness of self and learn healthy coping strategies. My style has been described as warm, compassionate and relatable.
(410) 237-0167 View (410) 237-0167
Photo of Rebecca Mitch McKee - Anne Arundel Counseling, Inc., PhD, LCPC, CFC, BCTMH
Anne Arundel Counseling, Inc.
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC, CFC, BCTMH
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
we offer various models of therapy such as: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, EMDR, hypnotherapy, solution focused, life coaching, Gestalt, Gottman, and many other formal and informal techniques.
Anne Arundel Counseling is a highly recognized and regarded MD State Certified provider offering six convenient locations throughout the Annapolis, Baltimore & Washington areas (Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Edgewater, Bowie, Stevensville & Centreville). We pride ourselves on being a diverse group of licensed and experiences psychological, psycho therapeutic and clinical specialists. We are dedicated to the well-being of each client and empowering them to achieve in a warm, supportive and inviting environment. For additional information please visit our website at: www.annearundelcounseling.com To schedule with on one of our experienced male or female providers, please call our office to speak with any one of our administrative staff members: Allison O'Hanlon, Client Coordinator, Michele Kline, Office Manager or Connie Thomas, Practice Manager. Our administrative staff will complete an informal screening to have you scheduled with the most appropriate clinician for your area of need. They will also answer any questions you may have regarding the counseling process, AAC, your clinician or any other related item. Lastly, they will take any insurance or EAP information to perform the billing as appropriate. We look forward to hearing from you and ensure your counseling experience is positive and beneficial.
we offer various models of therapy such as: cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), play therapy, EMDR, hypnotherapy, solution focused, life coaching, Gestalt, Gottman, and many other formal and informal techniques.
Anne Arundel Counseling is a highly recognized and regarded MD State Certified provider offering six convenient locations throughout the Annapolis, Baltimore & Washington areas (Annapolis, Glen Burnie, Edgewater, Bowie, Stevensville & Centreville). We pride ourselves on being a diverse group of licensed and experiences psychological, psycho therapeutic and clinical specialists. We are dedicated to the well-being of each client and empowering them to achieve in a warm, supportive and inviting environment. For additional information please visit our website at: www.annearundelcounseling.com To schedule with on one of our experienced male or female providers, please call our office to speak with any one of our administrative staff members: Allison O'Hanlon, Client Coordinator, Michele Kline, Office Manager or Connie Thomas, Practice Manager. Our administrative staff will complete an informal screening to have you scheduled with the most appropriate clinician for your area of need. They will also answer any questions you may have regarding the counseling process, AAC, your clinician or any other related item. Lastly, they will take any insurance or EAP information to perform the billing as appropriate. We look forward to hearing from you and ensure your counseling experience is positive and beneficial.
(410) 415-1851 View (410) 415-1851
Photo of Denise McKoy, LCSW-C, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise McKoy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
Specializations: EMDR, ERP, Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, and Christian Counseling.
Are you going through a difficult transition or struggling from trauma? Mood fluctuations? Do you feel stuck in a cycle you cannot break? Consider a life living well and thriving... Whether you are experiencing a recent difficulty or a long-standing challenge, therapy can offer you new ways to work through challenges and experience joy and hope. My approach is relational and solution-focused. Therapy is tailored to your unique needs and situation. We create a safe space for you to explore, reflect, and learn, while you create new pathways for your life. Now is the time for you to focus on you and live well.
Specializations: EMDR, ERP, Gottman Method, DBT, CBT, and Christian Counseling.
Are you going through a difficult transition or struggling from trauma? Mood fluctuations? Do you feel stuck in a cycle you cannot break? Consider a life living well and thriving... Whether you are experiencing a recent difficulty or a long-standing challenge, therapy can offer you new ways to work through challenges and experience joy and hope. My approach is relational and solution-focused. Therapy is tailored to your unique needs and situation. We create a safe space for you to explore, reflect, and learn, while you create new pathways for your life. Now is the time for you to focus on you and live well.
(443) 315-2770 View (443) 315-2770
Photo of Romel Santiago, LCSW, CST, QS-CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Romel Santiago
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, QS-CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21060  (Online Only)
Romel is a Certified Sex Therapist, Trauma and EMDR therapist working in areas of depression, anxiety, relationships, parenting, divorce, and cultural/religious trauma.
Romeos Sensation LLC provides Services in Florida and Maryland virtually. Through a structured interview and client engagement, Romel goes beyond the obvious, the presenting issue, to identify the root problem. Based on the outcome of the interview and clinical expertise, he proposes an individualized plan with goals that specifically target the problems with specific objectives and timelines for meeting those objectives. His extensive clinical background, training, and expertise have equipped him with skills critical to building and maintaining an effective and empathic relationship throughout the therapeutic process.
Romel is a Certified Sex Therapist, Trauma and EMDR therapist working in areas of depression, anxiety, relationships, parenting, divorce, and cultural/religious trauma.
Romeos Sensation LLC provides Services in Florida and Maryland virtually. Through a structured interview and client engagement, Romel goes beyond the obvious, the presenting issue, to identify the root problem. Based on the outcome of the interview and clinical expertise, he proposes an individualized plan with goals that specifically target the problems with specific objectives and timelines for meeting those objectives. His extensive clinical background, training, and expertise have equipped him with skills critical to building and maintaining an effective and empathic relationship throughout the therapeutic process.
(240) 226-1612 View (240) 226-1612
Photo of Steven Plummer, MS, LCPC
Steven Plummer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
I have extensive training in treating trauma related disorders including EMDR.
As a therapist, I aim to provide direct and honest feedback while providing you with support and empathy to make changes. Working on trust and building a strong relationship is the foundation for getting the most out of counseling. Together we will work to define and address the issues to get on to better living.
I have extensive training in treating trauma related disorders including EMDR.
As a therapist, I aim to provide direct and honest feedback while providing you with support and empathy to make changes. Working on trust and building a strong relationship is the foundation for getting the most out of counseling. Together we will work to define and address the issues to get on to better living.
(410) 760-9079 View (410) 760-9079
Photo of Kim Hudson, LCPC, ATR-BC, CSAT
Kim Hudson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC, CSAT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Laurel Parnell's basic training in attachment focused EMDR.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you - Maya Angelou. I specialize in working with those who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, pornography use, relationship and intimacy issues, enmeshment, infidelity, sexual abuse, betrayal trauma, disenfranchised or ambiguous grief, C-PTSD & PTSD.
Laurel Parnell's basic training in attachment focused EMDR.
There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you - Maya Angelou. I specialize in working with those who struggle with compulsive sexual behaviors, pornography use, relationship and intimacy issues, enmeshment, infidelity, sexual abuse, betrayal trauma, disenfranchised or ambiguous grief, C-PTSD & PTSD.
(410) 927-1366 View (410) 927-1366
Photo of Michelle Glenn,  LCSW-C, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Glenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
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.
(667) 242-9662 View (667) 242-9662
Photo of April K Latson, MSW, LCSW-C, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
April K Latson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, CCTP
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
I have an extensive background in individual, couples & group therapy, MBCT, EMDR, addiction recovery, and trauma focused treatment.
We all know the story of the straw that broke the camels back. Was it really the straw? Or was it that no one bothered to unload the camel of all of it's other burdens? Far to often in life we carry around our stress, trauma, fears, pain, and a host of other unhealthy baggage. Therapy can be a great tool for allowing us to unload, and work through the things we've been holding on to. I am a certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP) specializing in depression, mindfulness skills, & trauma processing. I am here to help you unpack, work through those experiences, and develop skills to manage whatever life may throw your way.
I have an extensive background in individual, couples & group therapy, MBCT, EMDR, addiction recovery, and trauma focused treatment.
We all know the story of the straw that broke the camels back. Was it really the straw? Or was it that no one bothered to unload the camel of all of it's other burdens? Far to often in life we carry around our stress, trauma, fears, pain, and a host of other unhealthy baggage. Therapy can be a great tool for allowing us to unload, and work through the things we've been holding on to. I am a certified clinical trauma professional (CCTP) specializing in depression, mindfulness skills, & trauma processing. I am here to help you unpack, work through those experiences, and develop skills to manage whatever life may throw your way.
(443) 383-3779 View (443) 383-3779
Photo of Amy Smith, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21061  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) which takes a distressing event and reduces disturbing feelings associated with it.
I provide telehealth therapy to individuals aged 18+ on a variety of issues and currently have weekday daytime availability. I have a passion for working with people that experience anxiety, trauma, and phase of life issues.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) which takes a distressing event and reduces disturbing feelings associated with it.
I provide telehealth therapy to individuals aged 18+ on a variety of issues and currently have weekday daytime availability. I have a passion for working with people that experience anxiety, trauma, and phase of life issues.
(410) 304-7078 View (410) 304-7078
Photo of Tiffon Bryant, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Tiffon Bryant
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21061  (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 Tracy L Meyer, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Tracy L Meyer
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
I am trained in TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress.
Welcome! Many individuals have experienced traumatic events and/or adverse experiences that resulted in posttraumatic stress. My specialty is treating survivors of abuse. I work with adolescents and adults using a client centered approach to develop the skills necessary to decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress. Additionally, I treat symptoms of ADHD in adolescents and adults. Treating mental health also includes treating the brain and the body. I have over 20 years experience in fitness and nutrition that can be brought into the treatment process for a more holistic approach to healing.
I am trained in TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR for ADHD, anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress.
Welcome! Many individuals have experienced traumatic events and/or adverse experiences that resulted in posttraumatic stress. My specialty is treating survivors of abuse. I work with adolescents and adults using a client centered approach to develop the skills necessary to decrease symptoms of anxiety, depression, and posttraumatic stress. Additionally, I treat symptoms of ADHD in adolescents and adults. Treating mental health also includes treating the brain and the body. I have over 20 years experience in fitness and nutrition that can be brought into the treatment process for a more holistic approach to healing.
(410) 936-7502 View (410) 936-7502
Photo of Ayana Tompkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ayana Tompkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21061  (Online Only)
Exhale. You BELONG here! Are you at a crossroads in your life, questioning your identity, or seeking ways to cope with life's challenges? Ready to embark on a transformative journey? The path to self-discovery is a continuous process that requires time, effort, and dedication. Taking the step to seek therapy is the first stride towards becoming your best self. Welcome to Emerald Essence Therapy, where I am committed to guiding you through life armed with the essential tools for success. Your well-being is my top priority, and together, we can thrive. I specialize in addressing low-level anxiety, depression, life transitions, and sex
Exhale. You BELONG here! Are you at a crossroads in your life, questioning your identity, or seeking ways to cope with life's challenges? Ready to embark on a transformative journey? The path to self-discovery is a continuous process that requires time, effort, and dedication. Taking the step to seek therapy is the first stride towards becoming your best self. Welcome to Emerald Essence Therapy, where I am committed to guiding you through life armed with the essential tools for success. Your well-being is my top priority, and together, we can thrive. I specialize in addressing low-level anxiety, depression, life transitions, and sex
(443) 940-5761 View (443) 940-5761
Photo of Della T Roderick - August Rose Health Center , LCPC
August Rose Health Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Discover August Rose Health Center—where compassion meets expertise. Since 2018, we've been a beacon of hope, CARF-accredited for top-tier mental health services. From childhood to adulthood, find solace in our Outpatient Mental Health Clinic (OMHC) and Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program Services (PRP). We offer individual counseling, medication management, and case management services. At August Rose, we're not just healing; we're transforming lives with empathy and dedication. Join us on the journey to wellness.
Discover August Rose Health Center—where compassion meets expertise. Since 2018, we've been a beacon of hope, CARF-accredited for top-tier mental health services. From childhood to adulthood, find solace in our Outpatient Mental Health Clinic (OMHC) and Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program Services (PRP). We offer individual counseling, medication management, and case management services. At August Rose, we're not just healing; we're transforming lives with empathy and dedication. Join us on the journey to wellness.
(410) 213-3905 View (410) 213-3905
Photo of Jolyce O'Neill, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Jolyce O'Neill
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
Waitlist for new clients
Unhappy, dissatisfied, and needing help? I am here to assist you towards building a better life. My hope for you is to understand how your thoughts impact your behaviors, learn healthier ways to cope, and challenge negative patterns that are impacting your self-worth, relationships , and quality of mental health. My belief is that using a person-centered approach combined with evidenced based practices, promotes a clear understanding of ones needs, with the desired goal of providing a healthy and rounded outcome for each individual.
Unhappy, dissatisfied, and needing help? I am here to assist you towards building a better life. My hope for you is to understand how your thoughts impact your behaviors, learn healthier ways to cope, and challenge negative patterns that are impacting your self-worth, relationships , and quality of mental health. My belief is that using a person-centered approach combined with evidenced based practices, promotes a clear understanding of ones needs, with the desired goal of providing a healthy and rounded outcome for each individual.
(410) 803-3975 View (410) 803-3975
Photo of Maria Cocoros, PsyD, CHT, LCPC, Counselor
Maria Cocoros
Counselor, PsyD, CHT, LCPC
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
I provide therapy to adults with a wide variety of issues. I use a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive, and hypnotherapy techniques. One or all of these techniques might be right for you at any given time during the course of treatment. I believe that a strong therapeutic alliance is of utmost importance. I provide a safe atmosphere of non-judgment and empathy. My approach is warm, supportive, and collaborative. I enjoy helping individuals utilize their personal creativity to manage emotions and take on life's challenges.
I provide therapy to adults with a wide variety of issues. I use a combination of psychoanalytic, cognitive, and hypnotherapy techniques. One or all of these techniques might be right for you at any given time during the course of treatment. I believe that a strong therapeutic alliance is of utmost importance. I provide a safe atmosphere of non-judgment and empathy. My approach is warm, supportive, and collaborative. I enjoy helping individuals utilize their personal creativity to manage emotions and take on life's challenges.
(240) 979-0132 View (240) 979-0132
Photo of Liberty Ravenwood, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liberty Ravenwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
I understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate trauma, stress, or addiction, & you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we’ll work through the challenges & find what helps you heal & grow. If you're ready to take the next step, I’m here to help guide you on your journey.
I understand how overwhelming it can feel to navigate trauma, stress, or addiction, & you don’t have to do it alone. I offer a compassionate, nonjudgmental space where you feel heard and supported. Together, we’ll work through the challenges & find what helps you heal & grow. If you're ready to take the next step, I’m here to help guide you on your journey.
(240) 376-5497 View (240) 376-5497
Star Behavioral Health & Recovery Center LLC
Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
Star Behavioral Health & Recovery Center is a person-centered Mental Health Clinic located in Baltimore City. Our staff is trained to help clients struggling with Substance Use Disorder and other kinds of addiction to provide them treatment they need. Our treatment center offers a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Outpatient Program (OP), Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP), and Driving Under Influence (DUI) services. We provide individual therapy, group therapy, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and Transitional Housing. You can contact us by phone at 443-869-5397 0r 301-978-1730.
Star Behavioral Health & Recovery Center is a person-centered Mental Health Clinic located in Baltimore City. Our staff is trained to help clients struggling with Substance Use Disorder and other kinds of addiction to provide them treatment they need. Our treatment center offers a Partial Hospitalization Program (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Outpatient Program (OP), Psychiatric Rehabilitation Program (PRP), and Driving Under Influence (DUI) services. We provide individual therapy, group therapy, Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), and Transitional Housing. You can contact us by phone at 443-869-5397 0r 301-978-1730.
(410) 883-8518 View (410) 883-8518
Photo of Precious George, LPC
Precious George
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21061
My work is focused on diagnosis & treatment for clients living with simple or complex trauma. I specialize in Bipolar Disorder, Depression, & Trauma. Our treatment goals would include learning how to take back control of your body and mind through polyvagal theory techniques and expanding your identity beyond that of a victim or survivor. I have helped many clients living with and/or experiencing overwhelming depression, anxiety, ADHD, interpersonal relationship issues, parenting problems, low self-esteem, and difficulty managing anger.
My work is focused on diagnosis & treatment for clients living with simple or complex trauma. I specialize in Bipolar Disorder, Depression, & Trauma. Our treatment goals would include learning how to take back control of your body and mind through polyvagal theory techniques and expanding your identity beyond that of a victim or survivor. I have helped many clients living with and/or experiencing overwhelming depression, anxiety, ADHD, interpersonal relationship issues, parenting problems, low self-esteem, and difficulty managing anger.
(667) 244-8677 View (667) 244-8677
Photo of Jacquelyne Gordon, LCPC
Jacquelyne Gordon
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Glen Burnie, MD 21060
Are you feeling stressed, spread thin, trying to figure out how to manage? Wanting to increase feelings of calm, stability, self-worth and strength? I enjoy and strive to help clients reach their goals, decrease stress and heal. I have experience working with women, young adults, men and parents of children as they journey through life.
Are you feeling stressed, spread thin, trying to figure out how to manage? Wanting to increase feelings of calm, stability, self-worth and strength? I enjoy and strive to help clients reach their goals, decrease stress and heal. I have experience working with women, young adults, men and parents of children as they journey through life.
(410) 397-7185 View (410) 397-7185
1

EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.