Photo of Carol Mettus - Carol Mettus LLC, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Mettus LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy, Brief and Short-Term Therapy.
Do you feel stuck suffering with anxiety and depression ?Are you dealing with a relationship, work/college issue, or going through a life change such as a divorce, recent move, or loss? Are negative feelings stopping you from living the life you want to live? If so, you are not alone in this. It is possible to change your life. I will help you to heal yourself and learn the skills to change. Change is possible and there is always Hope.
I am trained in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy, Brief and Short-Term Therapy.
Do you feel stuck suffering with anxiety and depression ?Are you dealing with a relationship, work/college issue, or going through a life change such as a divorce, recent move, or loss? Are negative feelings stopping you from living the life you want to live? If so, you are not alone in this. It is possible to change your life. I will help you to heal yourself and learn the skills to change. Change is possible and there is always Hope.
(240) 823-5198 View (240) 823-5198
Photo of Paula Grace, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Grace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704
Life is a struggle. While we all have had joys to celebrate and call our own, no one escapes the slings and arrows of life's misfortunes. I believe we always respond to those misfortunes in ways we believe is best for us at the time. Sometimes we have clarity. We can proceed in a way that validates who we are and what's in our best interest. Other times, we may not know what to do or act in a way that does not turn out as well. We suffer as our past ways of handling this situation no longer fits to meet our present needs.
Life is a struggle. While we all have had joys to celebrate and call our own, no one escapes the slings and arrows of life's misfortunes. I believe we always respond to those misfortunes in ways we believe is best for us at the time. Sometimes we have clarity. We can proceed in a way that validates who we are and what's in our best interest. Other times, we may not know what to do or act in a way that does not turn out as well. We suffer as our past ways of handling this situation no longer fits to meet our present needs.
(240) 617-3679 View (240) 617-3679
Photo of Kimberly DiGiorgio, PhD, Psychologist
Kimberly DiGiorgio
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Urbana, MD 21704  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I also utilize EMDR and DBT where applicable.
Individual therapy is a way for people to explore their thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental and healing therapeutic setting. You may aspire toward growth and development, may seek to learn ways to cope with ongoing stressors, or may be searching for ways to achieve mind-body connectedness. I consider myself to be eclectic in my approach to psychotherapy, and will often use components from different treatment modalities based on your needs. My goal is to help you feel a sense of empowerment over your psychological well-being.
I also utilize EMDR and DBT where applicable.
Individual therapy is a way for people to explore their thoughts and feelings in a non-judgmental and healing therapeutic setting. You may aspire toward growth and development, may seek to learn ways to cope with ongoing stressors, or may be searching for ways to achieve mind-body connectedness. I consider myself to be eclectic in my approach to psychotherapy, and will often use components from different treatment modalities based on your needs. My goal is to help you feel a sense of empowerment over your psychological well-being.
(240) 594-9836 x102 View (240) 594-9836 x102
Photo of Tami Koepp, MSW, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tami Koepp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Urbana, MD 21704
Not accepting new clients
Do You Need Help Making Peace With Your Past and Letting Go? Are you anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed on the inside, yet work hard to remain competent and in control on the outside? I specialize in helping people recover/discover a calm, secure experience of life. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, emotional or physical pain; whether you've had trauma in your past, or experienced a recent loss, break-up, illness or accident - I will help you understand what is happening, resolve disturbing feelings, and apply new skills and solutions.
Do You Need Help Making Peace With Your Past and Letting Go? Are you anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed on the inside, yet work hard to remain competent and in control on the outside? I specialize in helping people recover/discover a calm, secure experience of life. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, emotional or physical pain; whether you've had trauma in your past, or experienced a recent loss, break-up, illness or accident - I will help you understand what is happening, resolve disturbing feelings, and apply new skills and solutions.
(301) 514-4745 View (301) 514-4745

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christa Carlton, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christa Carlton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSW-C, LICSW, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
I am a registered yoga teacher, trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR, and an Evergreen ADHD Clinical Services Provider and Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional.
People come to me with the need for a non-judgmental space to explore their own lived experiences and express their thoughts and feelings. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma and employ a client-centered, strengths-based approach. I help clients develop insight around factors influencing development, understand the mind-body connection, and explore individualized strategies for optimizing mental wellness. I have experience supporting clients around a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, special needs parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use.
I am a registered yoga teacher, trained in Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR, and an Evergreen ADHD Clinical Services Provider and Clinical Anxiety Treatment Professional.
People come to me with the need for a non-judgmental space to explore their own lived experiences and express their thoughts and feelings. I specialize in supporting survivors of trauma and employ a client-centered, strengths-based approach. I help clients develop insight around factors influencing development, understand the mind-body connection, and explore individualized strategies for optimizing mental wellness. I have experience supporting clients around a variety of needs including anxiety, depression, grief and loss, neurodiversity, special needs parenting, relationships, behaviors, and substance use.
(443) 785-2982 View (443) 785-2982
Photo of Andrea Morley - Connected Wellness LLC, LCSW-C
Connected Wellness LLC
LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
If you are an EMDR therapist and would like EMDR consultation, we provide individual and group consultation.
Do you feel stuck? Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts and feelings? Our mission is to help heal your pain and move beyond these challenges. Together we will explore your concerns and develop a plan to help you heal and live the life you would like to live. Andrea and Carol have extensive clinical experience working with clients and helping them heal.
If you are an EMDR therapist and would like EMDR consultation, we provide individual and group consultation.
Do you feel stuck? Are you suffering with anxiety, depression, and negative thoughts and feelings? Our mission is to help heal your pain and move beyond these challenges. Together we will explore your concerns and develop a plan to help you heal and live the life you would like to live. Andrea and Carol have extensive clinical experience working with clients and helping them heal.
(410) 896-1622 View (410) 896-1622
Photo of Charity Mitchell, LMSW, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charity Mitchell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, and I am person-centered and incorporate Internal Family Systems principles into my practice.
Therapy can help us navigate personal relationships with society, work, or sex. As your therapist, I aim to work alongside you on your healing journey by tailoring your therapeutic goals to your specific needs. I am in the process of obtaining certification in sex therapy/sex education with The University of Michigan and AASECT. My goal is to empower others to embrace their sexual selves, whether through addressing a person’s relationship with sex, sexual trauma, or sexual addiction. Let me walk beside you on your journey of healing and empowerment.
I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, and mindfulness, and I am person-centered and incorporate Internal Family Systems principles into my practice.
Therapy can help us navigate personal relationships with society, work, or sex. As your therapist, I aim to work alongside you on your healing journey by tailoring your therapeutic goals to your specific needs. I am in the process of obtaining certification in sex therapy/sex education with The University of Michigan and AASECT. My goal is to empower others to embrace their sexual selves, whether through addressing a person’s relationship with sex, sexual trauma, or sexual addiction. Let me walk beside you on your journey of healing and empowerment.
(240) 201-9842 View (240) 201-9842
Photo of Arielle Jordan - Mindset Quality LLC, MS, NCC, LCPC, Counselor
Mindset Quality LLC
Counselor, MS, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use EMDR, DBT, and IFS to help you heal and grow.
If you're a veteran, first responder, or anyone struggling with PTSD or anxiety, you've come to the right place. As an Army veteran myself, I get the hurdles you face and the courage it takes to ask for help. I specialize in EMDR, a powerful tool for tackling trauma head-on. In our sessions, we'll craft coping strategies tailored just for you, aimed at strengthening your resilience and restoring your sense of control. Let’s work together to turn the tide on trauma and pave the way to a more hopeful, fulfilling life. Let's take this step by step, aiming for healing and lasting change.
I use EMDR, DBT, and IFS to help you heal and grow.
If you're a veteran, first responder, or anyone struggling with PTSD or anxiety, you've come to the right place. As an Army veteran myself, I get the hurdles you face and the courage it takes to ask for help. I specialize in EMDR, a powerful tool for tackling trauma head-on. In our sessions, we'll craft coping strategies tailored just for you, aimed at strengthening your resilience and restoring your sense of control. Let’s work together to turn the tide on trauma and pave the way to a more hopeful, fulfilling life. Let's take this step by step, aiming for healing and lasting change.
(240) 220-9211 View (240) 220-9211
Photo of Rachel Harrison, LPCMH, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Harrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMH, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701
I often use EMDR therapy, which I have found to work very well for many clients and it is a research based therapy.
Many people are facing difficult challenges in life, both past and present. If this is you, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you and work together to create a plan for therapy that will lead to feeling better and to the resolution of your past difficulties. I specialize in EMDR Therapy, anxiety, and those touched by the circle of adoption.
I often use EMDR therapy, which I have found to work very well for many clients and it is a research based therapy.
Many people are facing difficult challenges in life, both past and present. If this is you, I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you and work together to create a plan for therapy that will lead to feeling better and to the resolution of your past difficulties. I specialize in EMDR Therapy, anxiety, and those touched by the circle of adoption.
(301) 304-7108 View (301) 304-7108
Photo of Ihsan S Rogers - Resiliency Work, LLC, MSW, LCSW-C, CST, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Resiliency Work, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-C, CST
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
Through the use of behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy, my practice focuses on treating the whole person to build resilience and create positive lasting change.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has a passion for helping individuals explore, gain insight and become the best versions of themselves. I have over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health working with a diverse population. I am an innovative professional with outstanding therapeutic and interpersonal skills. I have a talent for motivating, teaching, supporting and effectively collaborating with individuals to meet their treatment goals. My practice centers on creating a supportive atmosphere rooted in mutual respect and open communication, allowing healing to occur.
Through the use of behavioral therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy, my practice focuses on treating the whole person to build resilience and create positive lasting change.
I am a licensed clinical social worker who has a passion for helping individuals explore, gain insight and become the best versions of themselves. I have over 20 years of experience in the field of mental health working with a diverse population. I am an innovative professional with outstanding therapeutic and interpersonal skills. I have a talent for motivating, teaching, supporting and effectively collaborating with individuals to meet their treatment goals. My practice centers on creating a supportive atmosphere rooted in mutual respect and open communication, allowing healing to occur.
(301) 281-4730 View (301) 281-4730
Photo of Tina Lightner-Morris, DMin, MS, LCPC, NBCC, IAYT-C
Tina Lightner-Morris
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, DMin, MS, LCPC, NBCC, IAYT-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I stay at the cutting edge of what heals - I have advanced training in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Mind/Body Medicine, Integrative Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Yoga Therapy, and Positive Psychology.
Thank You. We will design a healing journey that is uniquely yours! Specializing in trauma resolution and spiritually integrated psychotherapy. Working together considering all factors of mind, body, and spirit. Honoring chronic illness; reviewing your spiritual life or lack of; what you eat or don't; your thoughts and what you are afraid to think; how you move or are unable to move; what you vision for your-Self and what gets in the way. Acknowledging the great mystery of suffering and how to find meaning. Exploring your resiliency and your innate capacity to heal - seeking your strengths and what brings joy and happiness!
I stay at the cutting edge of what heals - I have advanced training in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Mind/Body Medicine, Integrative Nutrition, Herbal Medicine, Yoga Therapy, and Positive Psychology.
Thank You. We will design a healing journey that is uniquely yours! Specializing in trauma resolution and spiritually integrated psychotherapy. Working together considering all factors of mind, body, and spirit. Honoring chronic illness; reviewing your spiritual life or lack of; what you eat or don't; your thoughts and what you are afraid to think; how you move or are unable to move; what you vision for your-Self and what gets in the way. Acknowledging the great mystery of suffering and how to find meaning. Exploring your resiliency and your innate capacity to heal - seeking your strengths and what brings joy and happiness!
(301) 637-0477 View (301) 637-0477
Photo of Terri Dawn Gumm, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terri Dawn Gumm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21702
Treatment Options include: Individual Child and Adult Trauma Therapy, Marital and Family Therapy, Dissociative Integration, Corrective Attachment Therapy, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, Adult and Child EMDR, Therapeutic Parenting, Emotional Freedom Technique.
With nearly 20 years' experience in the mental health field, I have a wealth of experience treating adults and children through a wide host of challenges. Whether your distress has been long lasting or caused by a recent event, we will work together to identify, understand, and overcome what is holding you back from your desired life experience. The most important factor in a successful therapy outcome is the client/therapist relationship. I believe you will find me to be a welcoming, knowledgeable, light hearted, and down to earth.
Treatment Options include: Individual Child and Adult Trauma Therapy, Marital and Family Therapy, Dissociative Integration, Corrective Attachment Therapy, Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy, Child Centered Play Therapy, Filial Therapy, Adult and Child EMDR, Therapeutic Parenting, Emotional Freedom Technique.
With nearly 20 years' experience in the mental health field, I have a wealth of experience treating adults and children through a wide host of challenges. Whether your distress has been long lasting or caused by a recent event, we will work together to identify, understand, and overcome what is holding you back from your desired life experience. The most important factor in a successful therapy outcome is the client/therapist relationship. I believe you will find me to be a welcoming, knowledgeable, light hearted, and down to earth.
(240) 245-7220 View (240) 245-7220
Photo of Jessica Henry, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
, EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, PCIT) to youth, families, and adults coping with traumatic stress (e.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
, EMDR, Trauma-Focused CBT, PCIT) to youth, families, and adults coping with traumatic stress (e.
As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
(301) 701-3857 View (301) 701-3857
Photo of Scott Kampschaefer, LCSW, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Scott Kampschaefer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21702
Do you feel like you are continually battling uphill due to depression, anxiety, trauma, or sexual addiction issues and it seems like nothing you do helps? Do you have childhood issues that keep seem to always be coming back to haunt you or your relationships? If so, I can help you by showing you how to recover from these and help unlock energy that gets trapped inside yourself and help you be a the most functional person you can. I use a combination of methods to help get your brain and mind to work for you rather than against you, and am a certified EMDR practitioner.
Do you feel like you are continually battling uphill due to depression, anxiety, trauma, or sexual addiction issues and it seems like nothing you do helps? Do you have childhood issues that keep seem to always be coming back to haunt you or your relationships? If so, I can help you by showing you how to recover from these and help unlock energy that gets trapped inside yourself and help you be a the most functional person you can. I use a combination of methods to help get your brain and mind to work for you rather than against you, and am a certified EMDR practitioner.
(301) 205-5629 View (301) 205-5629
Photo of Kristin L Milne-Glasser - Allied Counseling Group, LCADC, SAP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Allied Counseling Group
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LCADC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21704  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, cognitive therapies, and crisis intervention and stabilization.
In crisis? I specialize in same-day phone/on-site/on-line sessions/ interventions; teens, chronic relapse, Internet/cyber addictions, co-occurring issues, trauma & failure to launch young adult & family conflicts. I am certified for evaluations, treatment, pre-employment/random drug testing. I offer indiv., group sessions, EAP, custody evaluations, case management, anger/stress management, certified domestic violence batterer's intervention counseling, alcohol/drug treatment, including SMART non-12-Step & cognitive therapies. Inpatient evals & referrals & post-discharge continuing care & family therapy targeting "failure to launch" young adult issues. Most insurance accepted.
I am trained in EMDR, cognitive therapies, and crisis intervention and stabilization.
In crisis? I specialize in same-day phone/on-site/on-line sessions/ interventions; teens, chronic relapse, Internet/cyber addictions, co-occurring issues, trauma & failure to launch young adult & family conflicts. I am certified for evaluations, treatment, pre-employment/random drug testing. I offer indiv., group sessions, EAP, custody evaluations, case management, anger/stress management, certified domestic violence batterer's intervention counseling, alcohol/drug treatment, including SMART non-12-Step & cognitive therapies. Inpatient evals & referrals & post-discharge continuing care & family therapy targeting "failure to launch" young adult issues. Most insurance accepted.
(301) 278-8808 View (301) 278-8808
Photo of Erin Graham, LCPAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Erin Graham
Art Therapist, LCPAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701
I offer a combination of supportive talk therapy, art therapy, EMDR, and skill building depending upon your needs and goals.
Navigating the various emotional and social challenges of life can be frustrating and lonely. You may appear fine to the outside world, but underneath feel sensitive to home/school/work environments. Some people find they are using a lot of mental energy fighting off the insensitive words/actions of others, unspoken societal pressures, or general worries. Over time, this can wear down your self-worth and impact your relationships. It can make all the difference when you find a space where you feel understood and are free to express your genuine emotions.
I offer a combination of supportive talk therapy, art therapy, EMDR, and skill building depending upon your needs and goals.
Navigating the various emotional and social challenges of life can be frustrating and lonely. You may appear fine to the outside world, but underneath feel sensitive to home/school/work environments. Some people find they are using a lot of mental energy fighting off the insensitive words/actions of others, unspoken societal pressures, or general worries. Over time, this can wear down your self-worth and impact your relationships. It can make all the difference when you find a space where you feel understood and are free to express your genuine emotions.
(240) 589-7148 View (240) 589-7148
Photo of Diane Younkins, MS, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Diane Younkins
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
Diane is trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, Counting and Mindfulness to help people heal from trauma.
Are you looking to grow in wisdom and compassion? For yourself? Your situation? Others? Diane Younkins provides support for adults who feel stuck or are in transition and want to develop in wisdom and maturity, love and compassion. Using mindfulness insight and other techniques, she encourages authentic living with awareness, gentleness, humor, creativity and courage.
Diane is trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, Counting and Mindfulness to help people heal from trauma.
Are you looking to grow in wisdom and compassion? For yourself? Your situation? Others? Diane Younkins provides support for adults who feel stuck or are in transition and want to develop in wisdom and maturity, love and compassion. Using mindfulness insight and other techniques, she encourages authentic living with awareness, gentleness, humor, creativity and courage.
(301) 323-8756 View (301) 323-8756
Photo of Marianna Mujica Holistic Coach And Psychotherapist, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marianna Mujica Holistic Coach And Psychotherapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21703  (Online Only)
Enrolling for Online ADHD Coaching Body Doubling Support Six Week Series Saturday mornings starting May 25th. Are you a creative talented person whose executive functioning challenges are limiting your success? Need real talk and guidance from an empathic laser focused direct down-to-earth coach (and licensed psychotherapist) who will maintain your confidentiality, genuinely care about you and teach strategies for quick relief? Let's work together to create positive changes. Online individual daytime coaching available.
Enrolling for Online ADHD Coaching Body Doubling Support Six Week Series Saturday mornings starting May 25th. Are you a creative talented person whose executive functioning challenges are limiting your success? Need real talk and guidance from an empathic laser focused direct down-to-earth coach (and licensed psychotherapist) who will maintain your confidentiality, genuinely care about you and teach strategies for quick relief? Let's work together to create positive changes. Online individual daytime coaching available.
(410) 983-3687 View (410) 983-3687
Photo of Christopher Cofone, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christopher Cofone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Clarksburg, MD 20871  (Online Only)
Is this a time for a new start? A reset in life? I welcome the change to meet with you and support a new beginning for you . I am friendly and open and welcome the change to understand your needs as well as connecting as people.
Is this a time for a new start? A reset in life? I welcome the change to meet with you and support a new beginning for you . I am friendly and open and welcome the change to understand your needs as well as connecting as people.
(301) 710-6564 View (301) 710-6564
Photo of Shannon Holmes, LCMFT, RPT™, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon Holmes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT, RPT™
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Frederick, MD 21701  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist in the state of Maryland, a Maryland Board Approved Supervisor, and in training to become a AAMFT Approved Supervisor. I assist individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, relational difficulties, school challenges, and compulsive behavior to build upon self-empowerment and strong family connections. If our appointment times do not align, there may be another clinician at my practice with your desired appointment time.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist and a Registered Play Therapist in the state of Maryland, a Maryland Board Approved Supervisor, and in training to become a AAMFT Approved Supervisor. I assist individuals, couples, and families who are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, relational difficulties, school challenges, and compulsive behavior to build upon self-empowerment and strong family connections. If our appointment times do not align, there may be another clinician at my practice with your desired appointment time.
(240) 213-9264 View (240) 213-9264

See more therapy options for Urbana

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.