EMDR Therapists in Pikesville, MD

Photo of Shneur Z. Marshall, LCSW-C, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shneur Z. Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am trained in Brainspotting and EMDR, certified in Advanced Trauma Treatment, have been practicing psychotherapy for eight years, and related fields for over 15 years.
We all deserve to feel safe and secure in our daily lives; confident and calm in our social interactions. So many of us suffer from life altering or traumatic events which create barriers from living our full potential.
I am trained in Brainspotting and EMDR, certified in Advanced Trauma Treatment, have been practicing psychotherapy for eight years, and related fields for over 15 years.
We all deserve to feel safe and secure in our daily lives; confident and calm in our social interactions. So many of us suffer from life altering or traumatic events which create barriers from living our full potential.
(443) 501-2465 View (443) 501-2465
Photo of Shlomo Schor, MA, LCPC
Shlomo Schor
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Welcome to a transformative journey of healing and growth. With 15 years of experience as a trauma therapist, I specialize in trauma-focused EMDR, Somatic Therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. My approach is born out of a deep commitment to providing clients with the most profound transformation in the shortest time. Recognizing the urgency in relieving suffering, I employ techniques that have proven to be remarkably effective in the shortest amount of time.
Welcome to a transformative journey of healing and growth. With 15 years of experience as a trauma therapist, I specialize in trauma-focused EMDR, Somatic Therapy and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy. My approach is born out of a deep commitment to providing clients with the most profound transformation in the shortest time. Recognizing the urgency in relieving suffering, I employ techniques that have proven to be remarkably effective in the shortest amount of time.
(410) 449-7077 View (410) 449-7077
Photo of Ava Barron-Shasho, LCSW-C, ACC
Ava Barron-Shasho
LCSW-C, ACC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
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.
(410) 698-6803 View (410) 698-6803
Photo of Cara Baltimore Lcsw-C, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cara Baltimore Lcsw-C
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
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.
(443) 232-2863 View (443) 232-2863
Photo of Kimberly Minenger - Optimal Behavioral Health Services, LLC, LCPC-S, LCADAS, CAC-AD, C-DBT
Optimal Behavioral Health Services, LLC
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC-S, LCADAS, CAC-AD, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208  (Online Only)
As a trained EMDR, Brainspotting, Emotional Freedom Tapping, and Cognitive-Behavioral/ Solution-focused therapist, my approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges.
Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to review my page. My love of helping people began as a young child. I have always been the "go-to" person when family and friends need an ear to listen. As I grew older, my life experiences inspired me to work in the human services field. Upon graduating from college and post-secondary higher education, my passion has been to empower my clients to heal and recover from their past trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse. My practice is located in the Central Maryland area currently servicing clients via telehealth.
As a trained EMDR, Brainspotting, Emotional Freedom Tapping, and Cognitive-Behavioral/ Solution-focused therapist, my approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients effectively address personal life challenges.
Welcome, and thank you for taking the time to review my page. My love of helping people began as a young child. I have always been the "go-to" person when family and friends need an ear to listen. As I grew older, my life experiences inspired me to work in the human services field. Upon graduating from college and post-secondary higher education, my passion has been to empower my clients to heal and recover from their past trauma, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and substance abuse. My practice is located in the Central Maryland area currently servicing clients via telehealth.
(667) 220-8846 View (667) 220-8846
Photo of Gavriella Mintz, PsyD, Psychologist
Gavriella Mintz
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I utilize Mindfulness, ACT, EMDR, relational and trauma-focused approaches.
It takes a great deal of strength and courage to try therapy. Turning to someone for help can be challenging and vulnerable so my job is to make this process as comfortable as possible. Are you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by anxiety? Are you trapped by memories of your past or weighed down by an inner critical voice? My holistic approach to therapy works with you to access your inner strengths and empowers you to live more fully, and enjoy what's right in front of you. I can help you expand the way you think, and see through a new brighter lens. I work with you to remove shame and judgement and embrace life's challenges.
I utilize Mindfulness, ACT, EMDR, relational and trauma-focused approaches.
It takes a great deal of strength and courage to try therapy. Turning to someone for help can be challenging and vulnerable so my job is to make this process as comfortable as possible. Are you feeling overwhelmed and exhausted by anxiety? Are you trapped by memories of your past or weighed down by an inner critical voice? My holistic approach to therapy works with you to access your inner strengths and empowers you to live more fully, and enjoy what's right in front of you. I can help you expand the way you think, and see through a new brighter lens. I work with you to remove shame and judgement and embrace life's challenges.
(443) 912-5166 View (443) 912-5166
Photo of Rachel Markus, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Markus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am trained in EMDR and have substantial experience treating trauma, codependency, anxiety, depression, addictions, family of origin & other mental health issues.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process and my highest priority is creating a safe space for clients to share and process things that aren't easy to deal with on their own or in the "real world". I support clients in utilizing their own inner strengths and resources to deal with the difficulties inherent in being a human being. I've worked in the mental health and substance abuse fields for over 10 years and also have a substantial amount of my own personal experience in healing and recovery work to offer to my clients.
I am trained in EMDR and have substantial experience treating trauma, codependency, anxiety, depression, addictions, family of origin & other mental health issues.
I believe therapy is a collaborative process and my highest priority is creating a safe space for clients to share and process things that aren't easy to deal with on their own or in the "real world". I support clients in utilizing their own inner strengths and resources to deal with the difficulties inherent in being a human being. I've worked in the mental health and substance abuse fields for over 10 years and also have a substantial amount of my own personal experience in healing and recovery work to offer to my clients.
(443) 991-8986 View (443) 991-8986
Photo of Janel Cubbage, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Janel Cubbage
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Waitlist for new clients
I treat the impacts of trauma with IFS, EMDR, and somatic approaches.
Often times we are carrying the mental and emotional weight of issues in our relationships, past experiences, traumas, or day to day stressors. This heaviness can begin to cause issues in other areas of your life and often manifests in a myriad of ways. Do you have the relationships you desire? Are you achieving goals? Or is this heaviness leaving you feeling unfulfilled and stuck in life? Are you dealing with the effects of past trauma you've experienced? Seeking help can be the first step in finding relief from your emotional pain, healing, and changing the habits and patterns you've developed that aren't working for you anymore.
I treat the impacts of trauma with IFS, EMDR, and somatic approaches.
Often times we are carrying the mental and emotional weight of issues in our relationships, past experiences, traumas, or day to day stressors. This heaviness can begin to cause issues in other areas of your life and often manifests in a myriad of ways. Do you have the relationships you desire? Are you achieving goals? Or is this heaviness leaving you feeling unfulfilled and stuck in life? Are you dealing with the effects of past trauma you've experienced? Seeking help can be the first step in finding relief from your emotional pain, healing, and changing the habits and patterns you've developed that aren't working for you anymore.
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Photo of Peggy Lee Kolodny, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT, Art Therapist
Peggy Lee Kolodny
Art Therapist, MA, ATR-BC, LCPAT
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
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.
(410) 469-6638 View (410) 469-6638
Photo of Steven Plummer, MS, LCPC
Steven Plummer
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
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) 877-6293 View (410) 877-6293
Photo of Tracey Mack, LCPC, CSOTP, CCTP, CDWF
Tracey Mack
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CSOTP, CCTP, CDWF
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) & Brainspotting to help those heal from challenging stressors.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Let's get to the real stuff!! Are you having a difficult time managing the "stuff" in your life? Whether it be depression, anxiety, substances, relationships, etc. We are living in a very fast pace world where our stuff can become overwhelming and may need some assistance. My belief to counseling is to assist the client where they are and aid in identifying solutions. Through therapy, I provide my clients with the tools that they need to live their life to the fullest and to discover the potential they have within themselves.
I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) & Brainspotting to help those heal from challenging stressors.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS! Let's get to the real stuff!! Are you having a difficult time managing the "stuff" in your life? Whether it be depression, anxiety, substances, relationships, etc. We are living in a very fast pace world where our stuff can become overwhelming and may need some assistance. My belief to counseling is to assist the client where they are and aid in identifying solutions. Through therapy, I provide my clients with the tools that they need to live their life to the fullest and to discover the potential they have within themselves.
(410) 593-1739 View (410) 593-1739
Photo of Lauren C Going, LCSW-C, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren C Going
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
We offer a variety of modalities that all work from a holistic lens such as somatic experiencing, breathwork, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), IFS (internal family systems), psychedelic/ ketamine assisted therapy, and microdose coaching.
Are you searching for a more holistic orientation that considers the mind, body, and spirit? Are you looking for alternative treatments such as psychedelic assisted therapy (ketamine), microdosing, and somatic therapy for example? Then look no further! I am the co-founder and primary therapist at Inner Path Wellness, Baltimore's first psychedelic assisted therapy and wellness center. We specialize in working with clients that are looking for something more than traditional talk therapy.
We offer a variety of modalities that all work from a holistic lens such as somatic experiencing, breathwork, EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), IFS (internal family systems), psychedelic/ ketamine assisted therapy, and microdose coaching.
Are you searching for a more holistic orientation that considers the mind, body, and spirit? Are you looking for alternative treatments such as psychedelic assisted therapy (ketamine), microdosing, and somatic therapy for example? Then look no further! I am the co-founder and primary therapist at Inner Path Wellness, Baltimore's first psychedelic assisted therapy and wellness center. We specialize in working with clients that are looking for something more than traditional talk therapy.
(443) 594-7703 View (443) 594-7703
Photo of Carmen Miles Davis, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carmen Miles Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist specializing in trauma. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where we can discuss and resolve your concerns. I am exceptionally well-trained and experienced in treating people who have difficulties stemming from traumatic events such as childhood maltreatment, sexual abuse, accidents, assaults, and more. Treatment methods are individualized and vary depending on the particular issues. My ideal client is interested in learning, growing, motivated, and prepared to engage in the challenging work of psychotherapy. I also love helping couples strengthen their relationship.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist specializing in trauma. My goal is to create a safe, nonjudgmental environment where we can discuss and resolve your concerns. I am exceptionally well-trained and experienced in treating people who have difficulties stemming from traumatic events such as childhood maltreatment, sexual abuse, accidents, assaults, and more. Treatment methods are individualized and vary depending on the particular issues. My ideal client is interested in learning, growing, motivated, and prepared to engage in the challenging work of psychotherapy. I also love helping couples strengthen their relationship.
(301) 605-9124 View (301) 605-9124
Photo of Jasmine Simmons - EviJoy Counseling Center, MS, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT
EviJoy Counseling Center
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Modalities some therapists use are CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, IFS, EMDR , Somatic Approach, Person Centered.
Feelings of self doubt, constant worry or hopelessness can make a person 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.
Feelings of self doubt, constant worry or hopelessness can make a person 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.
(667) 200-0423 View (667) 200-0423
Photo of Ilana Posner, LMSW, 	30237, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ilana Posner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, 30237
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208
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.
(443) 840-7862 View (443) 840-7862
Photo of Jeffrey Wolfish, LCPC
Jeffrey Wolfish
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208  (Online Only)
You don't need someone to tell you how stressful and challenging life can be. Work is stressful. Parenting is stressful. Marriage is stressful. Given the amount of stress we experience we often have a hard time identifying what is at the core of our problems. I have found that therapy can provide much needed exploration and processing that helps us live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. In a collaborative fashion, I work with each client to find patterns in behavior and language that may not be easily recognizable by the client.
You don't need someone to tell you how stressful and challenging life can be. Work is stressful. Parenting is stressful. Marriage is stressful. Given the amount of stress we experience we often have a hard time identifying what is at the core of our problems. I have found that therapy can provide much needed exploration and processing that helps us live more meaningful and fulfilling lives. In a collaborative fashion, I work with each client to find patterns in behavior and language that may not be easily recognizable by the client.
(443) 501-2518 View (443) 501-2518
Photo of Aviva Kovacs, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aviva Kovacs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Video appointments available now! Do any of the following statements resonate with you? You’re starting to have physical symptoms along with your anxious thoughts. You think that you’re the only one who is lonely. You feel stuck in life but you’re not completely sure why. You have patterns of chaotic or unhealthy relationships. You know the trauma is over, but it’s hard to move forward. You feel burdened with secrets of your past. If so, I'm here to help! I have experience working with anxiety, depression and trauma.
Video appointments available now! Do any of the following statements resonate with you? You’re starting to have physical symptoms along with your anxious thoughts. You think that you’re the only one who is lonely. You feel stuck in life but you’re not completely sure why. You have patterns of chaotic or unhealthy relationships. You know the trauma is over, but it’s hard to move forward. You feel burdened with secrets of your past. If so, I'm here to help! I have experience working with anxiety, depression and trauma.
(443) 323-2434 View (443) 323-2434
Photo of Allison Ferdinand Lewis, MSW, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Ferdinand Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
From the first time we meet and throughout our journey, I will invest my full attention into listening to your unique story. This is so important because you are the expert on you. We all have the power to heal ourselves from within. Sometimes all that's needed is a little redirection and a different perspective. Other times it is necessary to learn new coping skills and approaches to difficult situations.
From the first time we meet and throughout our journey, I will invest my full attention into listening to your unique story. This is so important because you are the expert on you. We all have the power to heal ourselves from within. Sometimes all that's needed is a little redirection and a different perspective. Other times it is necessary to learn new coping skills and approaches to difficult situations.
(410) 777-8551 View (410) 777-8551
Photo of Fatima Taylor - Taylor Wellness Center, Inc, LCSW-C
Taylor Wellness Center, Inc
LCSW-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pikesville, MD 21208
Trauma can leave you feeling defeated and disconnected from yourself and others. You want to keep everything from falling apart but it's getting harder and harder. Family and friends tell you to "be strong", but you're not sure if that's possible. Emotions are more intense than they've ever been and you're feeling overwhelmed, unsafe, scared, anxious and frustrated. You desperately want to share your feelings but fear no one will understand; you're feeling isolated and alone. Does this sound familiar?
Trauma can leave you feeling defeated and disconnected from yourself and others. You want to keep everything from falling apart but it's getting harder and harder. Family and friends tell you to "be strong", but you're not sure if that's possible. Emotions are more intense than they've ever been and you're feeling overwhelmed, unsafe, scared, anxious and frustrated. You desperately want to share your feelings but fear no one will understand; you're feeling isolated and alone. Does this sound familiar?
(443) 968-7074 View (443) 968-7074
Photo of Jess M Gorelick, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Jess M Gorelick
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Pikesville, MD 21208  (Online Only)
Let me help you tell your story. Nietzsche famously said, "To live is to suffer; to survive is to find some meaning in the suffering." I believe that we spend our lives looking for answers and meaning in life, and my passion is helping others untangle their darkest fears, their deepest worries, and emerge feeling both freer and more in control of their lives. I will walk beside you in the darkness--not leading, but guiding with a gentle hand as you move toward a brighter future.
Let me help you tell your story. Nietzsche famously said, "To live is to suffer; to survive is to find some meaning in the suffering." I believe that we spend our lives looking for answers and meaning in life, and my passion is helping others untangle their darkest fears, their deepest worries, and emerge feeling both freer and more in control of their lives. I will walk beside you in the darkness--not leading, but guiding with a gentle hand as you move toward a brighter future.
(410) 348-7183 View (410) 348-7183
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.