EMDR Therapists in Owings Mills, MD
EviJoy Counseling Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
Modalities some therapists use are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, IFS, EMDR , Somatic Approach, Person Centered.
Accepting new clients! Feelings of self doubt and hopelessness can make one feel stuck. Life can be very unpredictable with the uncertainties. It is okay if you are struggling to be in touch with your emotions. Therapy can provide a sense of peace in a safe environment where there is an opportunity to better understand thought process, anxiety or triggers that are hindering you from reaching your full potential. We are here to guide you in working through the challenges that you are facing and focus on your inner strength to connect the pieces in your life that can help you build a strong foundation for growth and life fulfilment.
Modalities some therapists use are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, IFS, EMDR , Somatic Approach, Person Centered.
Accepting new clients! Feelings of self doubt and hopelessness can make one feel stuck. Life can be very unpredictable with the uncertainties. It is okay if you are struggling to be in touch with your emotions. Therapy can provide a sense of peace in a safe environment where there is an opportunity to better understand thought process, anxiety or triggers that are hindering you from reaching your full potential. We are here to guide you in working through the challenges that you are facing and focus on your inner strength to connect the pieces in your life that can help you build a strong foundation for growth and life fulfilment.
India Simms- Haven Center For Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LCMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
We have a new treatment available- EMDR for psychogenic (anxiety based) erectile dysfunction (ED).
Is your relationship on the brink of a break-up? We help couples improve their communication patterns, their sex life, or figuring out how to separate amicably. We are LGBTQ+ affirming, sex positive, and kink-friendly. We also help couples navigating interracial / cross-cultural relationships, open relationships (ENM), polyamory, and various other relationship dynamics. If your partner is not ready for therapy, we provide individual therapy to help navigate relationship situations.
We have a new treatment available- EMDR for psychogenic (anxiety based) erectile dysfunction (ED).
Is your relationship on the brink of a break-up? We help couples improve their communication patterns, their sex life, or figuring out how to separate amicably. We are LGBTQ+ affirming, sex positive, and kink-friendly. We also help couples navigating interracial / cross-cultural relationships, open relationships (ENM), polyamory, and various other relationship dynamics. If your partner is not ready for therapy, we provide individual therapy to help navigate relationship situations.
I specialize in Attachment-based trauma therapy and work from a holistic, client centered perspective merging clinical approaches such as EMDR, Art Therapy, CBT and Inner-Child work.
Do you struggle with substance use, difficulty managing emotions, or navigating relationships? Do you feel trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and limiting beliefs, unsure of how to break the patterns that are holding you back? Perhaps you’ve tried therapy before, doing ‘all the right things,’ but still can’t find the relief you’re seeking. You’re feeling stuck, and despite your efforts, lasting change seems just out of reach. I’m here to help you break free from those cycles and find a sense of peace and self-love. Together, we'll work on rewiring the brain for lasting change.
I specialize in Attachment-based trauma therapy and work from a holistic, client centered perspective merging clinical approaches such as EMDR, Art Therapy, CBT and Inner-Child work.
Do you struggle with substance use, difficulty managing emotions, or navigating relationships? Do you feel trapped in a cycle of self-doubt and limiting beliefs, unsure of how to break the patterns that are holding you back? Perhaps you’ve tried therapy before, doing ‘all the right things,’ but still can’t find the relief you’re seeking. You’re feeling stuck, and despite your efforts, lasting change seems just out of reach. I’m here to help you break free from those cycles and find a sense of peace and self-love. Together, we'll work on rewiring the brain for lasting change.
Nichole R. Judd
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and I am EMDR trained.
My clients describe me as caring, resourceful, optimistic, honest, encouraging and effective. I use an integrative approach to therapy which may include: EMDR, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Processing Therapy or Person Centered Therapy based on the client’s needs. Together, we will explore the past, present, and future. We will develop and achieve goals which will lead you to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Your journey to health, strength and wellness begins here. I look forward to speaking with you .
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) and I am EMDR trained.
My clients describe me as caring, resourceful, optimistic, honest, encouraging and effective. I use an integrative approach to therapy which may include: EMDR, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Processing Therapy or Person Centered Therapy based on the client’s needs. Together, we will explore the past, present, and future. We will develop and achieve goals which will lead you to a more fulfilling and balanced life. Your journey to health, strength and wellness begins here. I look forward to speaking with you .
Peggy Lee Kolodny
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117
Waitlist for new clients
I seek a genuineness to my therapeutic relationships, finding this with the language of expressive arts integrated with IFS (Level 2), EMDR, bilateral processes, Neurosequential trauma informed approaches.
I have been an art psychotherapist since 1982. I currently work with adolescents and adults, using a trauma informed integrated approach for the impact of developmental trauma with its comorbidity, dissociation, and attachment issues. Art gives voice to what is stored implicitly within sensory somatic means. My client and I foster the relational benefit of the compassionate therapeutic alliance using the power of the creative process with a strength based focus. Our collaborative goal is to resolve the impact of the past; building resiliency, internal wisdom, and self compassion. I am an approved art therapy Supervisor in Maryland.
I seek a genuineness to my therapeutic relationships, finding this with the language of expressive arts integrated with IFS (Level 2), EMDR, bilateral processes, Neurosequential trauma informed approaches.
I have been an art psychotherapist since 1982. I currently work with adolescents and adults, using a trauma informed integrated approach for the impact of developmental trauma with its comorbidity, dissociation, and attachment issues. Art gives voice to what is stored implicitly within sensory somatic means. My client and I foster the relational benefit of the compassionate therapeutic alliance using the power of the creative process with a strength based focus. Our collaborative goal is to resolve the impact of the past; building resiliency, internal wisdom, and self compassion. I am an approved art therapy Supervisor in Maryland.
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Owings Mills
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117
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.
Tara C. Barber
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LGPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
I can help you get unstuck by using an EMDR-first approach.
Feeling stuck! You’re repeating patterns, unable to create the life you want, and shackled down by anxiety, fear, and depression. There is a constant critic in your head that creates more emotional pain, and there is no energy or confidence to do the things you want to enjoy. Relationships have left you feeling disappointed. You don’t know how to make your circumstances better, but you are desperate to find a way to move forward. It’s been a struggle to make changes in the past, not knowing exactly how to move forward and release your emotional burdens. It seems as though nothing has worked.
I can help you get unstuck by using an EMDR-first approach.
Feeling stuck! You’re repeating patterns, unable to create the life you want, and shackled down by anxiety, fear, and depression. There is a constant critic in your head that creates more emotional pain, and there is no energy or confidence to do the things you want to enjoy. Relationships have left you feeling disappointed. You don’t know how to make your circumstances better, but you are desperate to find a way to move forward. It’s been a struggle to make changes in the past, not knowing exactly how to move forward and release your emotional burdens. It seems as though nothing has worked.
Cara Baltimore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MD, VA, & DC) specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, mood, psychosis, adjustment, and personality disorders. I also have worked with individuals impacted by co-occurring conditions. I also have extensive knowledge of MD Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), and The Joint Commission.
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), & Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (MD, VA, & DC) specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with trauma, addiction, depression, anxiety, mood, psychosis, adjustment, and personality disorders. I also have worked with individuals impacted by co-occurring conditions. I also have extensive knowledge of MD Behavioral Health Administration (BHA), Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), and The Joint Commission.
Cara Baltimore Lcsw-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I provide a holistic approach that allows you to be the author of your own treatment. I am a hands-on therapist that encourages others to apply skills directly in practice. I am most passionate about helping individuals move trauma from the mind and body, equipping them with the skills necessary to take control of their lives and begin truly living.
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in children, adolescents, and families. I have a passion for helping others reach their highest self and offer a safe, comfortable, and culturally competent atmosphere. I provide a holistic approach that allows you to be the author of your own treatment. I am a hands-on therapist that encourages others to apply skills directly in practice. I am most passionate about helping individuals move trauma from the mind and body, equipping them with the skills necessary to take control of their lives and begin truly living.
Michelle Glenn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117
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.
Victoria S. Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117
My approach combines traditional psychotherapy and, with the client's permission, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a breakthrough technique which uses the brain's natural healing abilities to recover from the wounds of past pain.
NOW OFFERING TELE-THERAPY EXCLUSIVELY Are the memories of the past holding you back from living your life to the fullest? Do you need help navigating relationships? Do you feel confused by your own behaviors or feelings? Have you experienced significant losses in your life? I offer a non-judgmental atmosphere emphasizing compassion and empathy in building a trusting relationship which tailors the treatment approach to you.
My approach combines traditional psychotherapy and, with the client's permission, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a breakthrough technique which uses the brain's natural healing abilities to recover from the wounds of past pain.
NOW OFFERING TELE-THERAPY EXCLUSIVELY Are the memories of the past holding you back from living your life to the fullest? Do you need help navigating relationships? Do you feel confused by your own behaviors or feelings? Have you experienced significant losses in your life? I offer a non-judgmental atmosphere emphasizing compassion and empathy in building a trusting relationship which tailors the treatment approach to you.
15 Second Videos
India Simms- Haven Center For Therapy
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Owings Mills
Cara Baltimore
Cara Baltimore Lcsw-C
Ava Barron-Shasho
Ben Barer
Aviva Kovacs
Carrie Schurtz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117
I also offer EMDR for treatment of trauma and a variety of other life challenges.
I have been working in the mental health field for nearly 20 years. Licensed as a clinical social worker in MD, I have experience working with clients in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. I view the therapeutic relationship as one of collaboration between therapist and client. My therapeutic approach is a strengths-based, perspective with the primary focus of treatment being enhancing skills to attain overall physical, spiritual, and mental wellness.
I also offer EMDR for treatment of trauma and a variety of other life challenges.
I have been working in the mental health field for nearly 20 years. Licensed as a clinical social worker in MD, I have experience working with clients in outpatient, inpatient, and residential settings. I view the therapeutic relationship as one of collaboration between therapist and client. My therapeutic approach is a strengths-based, perspective with the primary focus of treatment being enhancing skills to attain overall physical, spiritual, and mental wellness.
I have also been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a treatment approach where clients safely reprocess traumatic information using bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tones, tapping).
Please note: morning & midday availability only .......... Change is not easy. Whether you're needing to experience relief from anxiety, depression, past trauma, or a current difficult situation, counseling can help bring us out of stagnation and onto the path of change in a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere. I enjoy helping people identify what thoughts and behaviors are helpful in building satisfying lives and which may have once proved useful, but no longer work for them. Taking small steps, while being kind to ourselves when we make mistakes, can create the kind of change that we want to see in our lives.
I have also been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a treatment approach where clients safely reprocess traumatic information using bilateral stimulation (eye movements, tones, tapping).
Please note: morning & midday availability only .......... Change is not easy. Whether you're needing to experience relief from anxiety, depression, past trauma, or a current difficult situation, counseling can help bring us out of stagnation and onto the path of change in a compassionate and non-judgmental atmosphere. I enjoy helping people identify what thoughts and behaviors are helpful in building satisfying lives and which may have once proved useful, but no longer work for them. Taking small steps, while being kind to ourselves when we make mistakes, can create the kind of change that we want to see in our lives.
We may incorporate EMDR to help reprocess difficult memories and reduce their emotional intensity, alongside other evidence-based therapies to facilitate healing and growth.
If you struggle with anxiety, racing thoughts about what-if scenarios, feeling the need to "earn" someone's love, or feeling pressured to be “perfect,” know that you're not alone. These are common experiences, and I'm here to help you navigate them. We can explore these experiences together, develop strategies to manage them, and ultimately create a more fulfilling and peaceful life. We'll explore coping skills to regulate emotions and challenge these limiting beliefs. I can help you create a more balanced life, where your needs are as important as everyone else’s. We'll integrate mindfulness, grounding, & somatic techniques.
We may incorporate EMDR to help reprocess difficult memories and reduce their emotional intensity, alongside other evidence-based therapies to facilitate healing and growth.
If you struggle with anxiety, racing thoughts about what-if scenarios, feeling the need to "earn" someone's love, or feeling pressured to be “perfect,” know that you're not alone. These are common experiences, and I'm here to help you navigate them. We can explore these experiences together, develop strategies to manage them, and ultimately create a more fulfilling and peaceful life. We'll explore coping skills to regulate emotions and challenge these limiting beliefs. I can help you create a more balanced life, where your needs are as important as everyone else’s. We'll integrate mindfulness, grounding, & somatic techniques.
Cintra Harbold
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117
The “Mind-Body” connection is important in growth and healing, so as a therapist I strive to make each therapy session as engaging and interactive as possible. In addition to “talk” therapy, we might incorporate art, movement, role play, nature, or music into the session. I am also trained in EMDR so we can work on past big or little traumas to help you live and thrive in the present. The goal is for you to become your truest and best self always and in all ways by helping you gain new insight into yourself and your life through creative and experiential counseling techniques.
The “Mind-Body” connection is important in growth and healing, so as a therapist I strive to make each therapy session as engaging and interactive as possible. In addition to “talk” therapy, we might incorporate art, movement, role play, nature, or music into the session. I am also trained in EMDR so we can work on past big or little traumas to help you live and thrive in the present. The goal is for you to become your truest and best self always and in all ways by helping you gain new insight into yourself and your life through creative and experiential counseling techniques.
Ellen Sloh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Owings Mills, MD 21117 (Online Only)
Congrats on taking the first step towards wellness and searching for a therapist! I believe that the therapeutic Alliance is important and you are the expert of your life and I bring in the professional guidance. Consistent daily practice of self-compassion, empathy, and healthy boundaries can overcome years of trauma and unhealthy coping skills. Everyone has the capacity to move towards mental wellness given appropriate resources and empathy. I utilize an eclectic style in my approach and implement CBT,DBT, EMDR along with a client centered approach because therapy is not one size fits all. I also provide Clinical Supervision.
Congrats on taking the first step towards wellness and searching for a therapist! I believe that the therapeutic Alliance is important and you are the expert of your life and I bring in the professional guidance. Consistent daily practice of self-compassion, empathy, and healthy boundaries can overcome years of trauma and unhealthy coping skills. Everyone has the capacity to move towards mental wellness given appropriate resources and empathy. I utilize an eclectic style in my approach and implement CBT,DBT, EMDR along with a client centered approach because therapy is not one size fits all. I also provide Clinical Supervision.
With over 25 years of experience, I customize your therapy to meet your individual needs using a variety of techniques including: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and expressive modalities.
Are leftover traumas from your past holding you back from living fully? Do you wish you could stop trying to numb out from your negative thoughts, depression, anxiety or addiction? Through therapy, you can learn how to embrace your vulnerabilities and step into the life you want to be living. I am a compassionate and supportive clinical social worker who connects with you to create a safe space to talk about what’s happened to you. Together we’ll begin to understand the impact of trauma and shame while practicing techniques you can use to live a healthier and happier life.
With over 25 years of experience, I customize your therapy to meet your individual needs using a variety of techniques including: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and expressive modalities.
Are leftover traumas from your past holding you back from living fully? Do you wish you could stop trying to numb out from your negative thoughts, depression, anxiety or addiction? Through therapy, you can learn how to embrace your vulnerabilities and step into the life you want to be living. I am a compassionate and supportive clinical social worker who connects with you to create a safe space to talk about what’s happened to you. Together we’ll begin to understand the impact of trauma and shame while practicing techniques you can use to live a healthier and happier life.
After a strong focus on health, military resiliency, and witnessing different levels of mental health challenges, I noticed an increase in trauma responses and client's caution to the safety of therapy. I practice helping children and adults cope with trauma-responses and unhealthy generational beliefs about mental health disease; help women veterans cope with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; and provide spiritual counseling. I provide strategies for behavior modification and trauma recovery with people from multiple ethnicities. My goal is to continue to provide healthy strategies to navigate trauma and mental illness stigmas.
After a strong focus on health, military resiliency, and witnessing different levels of mental health challenges, I noticed an increase in trauma responses and client's caution to the safety of therapy. I practice helping children and adults cope with trauma-responses and unhealthy generational beliefs about mental health disease; help women veterans cope with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; and provide spiritual counseling. I provide strategies for behavior modification and trauma recovery with people from multiple ethnicities. My goal is to continue to provide healthy strategies to navigate trauma and mental illness stigmas.
There is nothing too big or too small for a reason to come to therapy. Therapy is for people that feel that they want to gain more control in their lives and understand more of themselves. You might ask...Why does this get on my nerves so much? Why can't I just leave this alone? You really might just feel tired and overwhlemed. Your goals might seem so far away or just not achieveable at all. Do you feel like you are just there?
There is nothing too big or too small for a reason to come to therapy. Therapy is for people that feel that they want to gain more control in their lives and understand more of themselves. You might ask...Why does this get on my nerves so much? Why can't I just leave this alone? You really might just feel tired and overwhlemed. Your goals might seem so far away or just not achieveable at all. Do you feel like you are just there?
New Perspectives
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Owings Mills, MD 21117
New Perspectives has recently expanded to the Lutherville area! We have been a well-established group counseling practice in Owings Mills and Westminster for over 20 years. Our fully licensed professional staff includes psychologists, social workers, and licensed counselors. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling to all ages. Our therapists are highly skilled in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, ADHD, conflict mediation, mindfulness, intimacy issues, bullying, and self-esteem issues. We also offer Clinical Supervision for LGPC and LMSW.
New Perspectives has recently expanded to the Lutherville area! We have been a well-established group counseling practice in Owings Mills and Westminster for over 20 years. Our fully licensed professional staff includes psychologists, social workers, and licensed counselors. We offer individual, couples, and family counseling to all ages. Our therapists are highly skilled in the treatment of depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma, ADHD, conflict mediation, mindfulness, intimacy issues, bullying, and self-esteem issues. We also offer Clinical Supervision for LGPC and LMSW.
See more therapy options for Owings Mills
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Owings Mills
- Cockeysville
- Eldersburg
- Garrison
- Hunt Valley
- Lutherville
- Lutherville Timonium
- Pikesville
- Reisterstown
- Roland Park
- Sykesville
- Timonium
- Windsor Mill
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.