EMDR Therapists in Windsor Mill, MD
![Photo of Dr. Nakieta Lankster, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5385d50d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Finding the right psychological consultant for your business needs is hard. Wading through profiles and googling is a chore. Some times when you know exactly the ins and outs of what you need done, and other times you just need a little help figuring it all out. Well, I have your back! My boutique 8a and Hub Zone certified small business flexible enough to meet your needs; no matter the size or demand. From driven task execution to guidance consultant, I’m here for you.
Finding the right psychological consultant for your business needs is hard. Wading through profiles and googling is a chore. Some times when you know exactly the ins and outs of what you need done, and other times you just need a little help figuring it all out. Well, I have your back! My boutique 8a and Hub Zone certified small business flexible enough to meet your needs; no matter the size or demand. From driven task execution to guidance consultant, I’m here for you.
![Photo of Tanya Manyweathers LCSW-C Renewing Your Mind Inc., LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d0770c3-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tanya Manyweathers LCSW-C Renewing Your Mind Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Windsor Mill, MD 21244
My ideal client is that individual who may have experienced some type of childhood trauma and find themselves stuck or lost in life. If you are experiencing some of the following symptoms: depression, anxiety, anger, relational issues, feelings of abandonment, or rejection help is available. You do not have to isolate yourself or live an unfulfilled and meaningless life. Therapy can assist you in changing your life. You can have the life you desire. Sand Tray and Art Therapy is one of the many treatment interventions I utilize to help clients delve into past trauma. It is a safe and non-evasive way to deal with trauma.
My ideal client is that individual who may have experienced some type of childhood trauma and find themselves stuck or lost in life. If you are experiencing some of the following symptoms: depression, anxiety, anger, relational issues, feelings of abandonment, or rejection help is available. You do not have to isolate yourself or live an unfulfilled and meaningless life. Therapy can assist you in changing your life. You can have the life you desire. Sand Tray and Art Therapy is one of the many treatment interventions I utilize to help clients delve into past trauma. It is a safe and non-evasive way to deal with trauma.
![Photo of Candice Richardson Dickens, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d8c6ba7f-be61-4421-836a-2c56b6abb0aa/1/320x400.png)
Candice Richardson Dickens
Counselor, LCPC-S, LCADC, NCC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Windsor Mill, MD 21244
Are you tired of your past traumas getting in the way of experiencing joy, long lasting intimacy, stability and happiness? If so, I want you to know that healing is possible. and you deserve to have the life that you want. I am a trauma specialist, and I am trained in helping clients heal from past abuse, hurt, and acts of violence. Restoration, liberation from trauma, and peace are the goals for my ideal client.
Are you tired of your past traumas getting in the way of experiencing joy, long lasting intimacy, stability and happiness? If so, I want you to know that healing is possible. and you deserve to have the life that you want. I am a trauma specialist, and I am trained in helping clients heal from past abuse, hurt, and acts of violence. Restoration, liberation from trauma, and peace are the goals for my ideal client.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Carrie Schurtz, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b3ea4a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Kimberly Minenger - Optimal Behavioral Health Services, LLC, LCPC-S, LCADAS, CAC-AD, C-DBT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4bf6649-0215-400f-be2e-1de6e68561dc/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Shlomo Schor, MA, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0f461f47-63c2-417f-9a4d-3e942f81c80c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shlomo Schor
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 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.
![Photo of Brenda L. Merrill, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ff6bde7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities and am a Certified EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Reaching out for help is difficult, but giving yourself the opportunity for emotional healing is an incredible gift to offer yourself and your loved ones. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger can surface from a multitude of stressors: relationships, work, parenting, or a difficult past resurfacing in your present life. I work with people to help create meaning out of difficulty and embrace a healthier life. Through identifying and coming to grips with fears, we are better able to know ourselves so we can connect in healthy ways in existing relationships, as well as build valuable new ones.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic modalities and am a Certified EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Reaching out for help is difficult, but giving yourself the opportunity for emotional healing is an incredible gift to offer yourself and your loved ones. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, and anger can surface from a multitude of stressors: relationships, work, parenting, or a difficult past resurfacing in your present life. I work with people to help create meaning out of difficulty and embrace a healthier life. Through identifying and coming to grips with fears, we are better able to know ourselves so we can connect in healthy ways in existing relationships, as well as build valuable new ones.
![Photo of Gavriella Mintz, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/51787297-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Mary Sue McCarthy, MS, LCPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a4fd30c2-c187-4c52-8a9a-427df1e71b19/1/320x400.jpeg)
My therapy practice is founded on my belief that inherent in everyone is the ability to know their wants and needs, declare their own truths and find the best way forward. As your therapist, my role is to support you in your journey, at whatever place you start, to help you clear the way, navigate through the storms, and celebrate the sunshine. My specialties are Addictions Recovery, EMDR/Trauma Therapy , Anger Management and Conflict Resolution and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. All potential new clients are welcome to an initial 30 minute consultation, at no charge.
My therapy practice is founded on my belief that inherent in everyone is the ability to know their wants and needs, declare their own truths and find the best way forward. As your therapist, my role is to support you in your journey, at whatever place you start, to help you clear the way, navigate through the storms, and celebrate the sunshine. My specialties are Addictions Recovery, EMDR/Trauma Therapy , Anger Management and Conflict Resolution and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy. All potential new clients are welcome to an initial 30 minute consultation, at no charge.
![Photo of Ava Barron-Shasho, LCSW-C, ACC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dde7e96-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Stacy Lane Stoddard, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/debc3260-d369-43d3-b81d-a73dcd875e0b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Stacy Lane Stoddard
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21212
I work primarily with adults, adolescents and couples, and I am a Certified EMDR clinician, consultant, and trainer.
Trauma impacts so many of us, whether it is trauma with a small "t" (like being teased as a child, financial stresses, or relationship losses) or trauma with a big "T" (such as accidents, deaths, emotional or physical abuse, or sexual trauma). I specialize in working with traumas of all types. Using approaches that are suited to your individual needs, I can help you work your way through the pain and memories to a more peaceful and calm place.
I work primarily with adults, adolescents and couples, and I am a Certified EMDR clinician, consultant, and trainer.
Trauma impacts so many of us, whether it is trauma with a small "t" (like being teased as a child, financial stresses, or relationship losses) or trauma with a big "T" (such as accidents, deaths, emotional or physical abuse, or sexual trauma). I specialize in working with traumas of all types. Using approaches that are suited to your individual needs, I can help you work your way through the pain and memories to a more peaceful and calm place.
![Photo of Victoria S. Young, PhD, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31e29d8b-b886-4c86-830e-c4214a6bf9f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Lauren C Going, LCSW-C, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f34c1b20-da0d-4488-bb04-e72ad7f4ba58/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren C Going
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21209
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.
![Photo of India Simms- Haven Center For Therapy, MS, LCMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2885c4a5-72a1-4042-9a3d-3aaf84260b98/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Jasmine Yandoc, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ce50a3cb-2025-47ab-88e9-7345c9c7c5b5/1/320x400.png)
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in the states of Maryland and Pennsylvania. I am an informed Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (DBT) that has completed specialized training in delivering a dialectical approach to therapy. A DBT assumption that I carry with me is “everyone is doing the best they can”. My view of therapy is meeting others where they are currently at in their lives and allowing them to see the skills/strengths they already possess over time. Recently, I have been awarded the title of EMDR trained therapist.
I am a Licensed Master Social Worker in the states of Maryland and Pennsylvania. I am an informed Dialectical Behavioral Therapist (DBT) that has completed specialized training in delivering a dialectical approach to therapy. A DBT assumption that I carry with me is “everyone is doing the best they can”. My view of therapy is meeting others where they are currently at in their lives and allowing them to see the skills/strengths they already possess over time. Recently, I have been awarded the title of EMDR trained therapist.
![Photo of Michelle McWhirter, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/eaa8d755-ac9e-4bd1-96aa-e19edbbf44b5/2/320x400.png)
Michelle McWhirter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baltimore, MD 21213 (Online Only)
Hello and welcome to my profile! I am truly grateful for the opportunity to support you on your healing journey. With over a decade of experience, I specialize in guiding individuals through grief, illness, trauma, and caregiving concerns. My approach integrates CBT, mindfulness, and EMDR to help you find peace and healing. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am dedicated to empowering you to overcome challenges and discover a profound sense of wellness.
Hello and welcome to my profile! I am truly grateful for the opportunity to support you on your healing journey. With over a decade of experience, I specialize in guiding individuals through grief, illness, trauma, and caregiving concerns. My approach integrates CBT, mindfulness, and EMDR to help you find peace and healing. Your well-being is my top priority, and I am dedicated to empowering you to overcome challenges and discover a profound sense of wellness.
![Photo of Nicole White-Samuels - Life Connection Services, LCSW-C, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/59407d99-1a6a-4ddb-8584-b3a577463270/3/320x400.jpeg)
Life Connection Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Catonsville, MD 21228
Nicole White-Samuels has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, residential and private practice. Nicole White-Samuels is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidenced based practice found extremely effective in providing relief and healing for those suffering with trauma, as well as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). an evidence-based practice used in treating children impacted by trauma. She is certified in Brainspotting assisting her clients to access, process and overcome unresolved trauma, negative emotions, and pain.
Nicole White-Samuels has worked in a variety of clinical settings including inpatient, outpatient, residential and private practice. Nicole White-Samuels is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidenced based practice found extremely effective in providing relief and healing for those suffering with trauma, as well as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). an evidence-based practice used in treating children impacted by trauma. She is certified in Brainspotting assisting her clients to access, process and overcome unresolved trauma, negative emotions, and pain.
![Photo of Paula Peach, MS, LCPC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/488bf143-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Paula Peach
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
Baltimore, MD 21211
I am trained in EMDR, an effective treatment for trauma, anxiety and phobias.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Therapist, I understand that when people are in pain, the need for understanding, empathy and relief is most important. With both competence and devotion to my work, I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, transitions, phobias, couples therapy and divorce recovery. In the comfort of a warm and safe environment, I work hard, in partnership with you, to find the most effective pathway to you feeling better...and feeling better soon!
I am trained in EMDR, an effective treatment for trauma, anxiety and phobias.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Therapist, I understand that when people are in pain, the need for understanding, empathy and relief is most important. With both competence and devotion to my work, I specialize in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, transitions, phobias, couples therapy and divorce recovery. In the comfort of a warm and safe environment, I work hard, in partnership with you, to find the most effective pathway to you feeling better...and feeling better soon!
![Photo of Jessica Rice - New Hope Counseling Group, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7873303-2c69-416d-b4d6-64bebb44aa33/1/320x400.jpeg)
Several clinicians have specialized training in specific trauma-informed treatments, such as EMDR and Trauma-Sensitive Yoga.
New Hope Counseling Group, LLC, is a group of diverse licensed therapists who take great pride in providing a safe and comfortable space to explore a range of challenges with each client we work with. We strive to empower our clients to navigate life's challenges through individualized, collaborative, trauma-informed treatment modalities. We seek to match you with the best fit therapist based on your presenting needs or personal goals.
Several clinicians have specialized training in specific trauma-informed treatments, such as EMDR and Trauma-Sensitive Yoga.
New Hope Counseling Group, LLC, is a group of diverse licensed therapists who take great pride in providing a safe and comfortable space to explore a range of challenges with each client we work with. We strive to empower our clients to navigate life's challenges through individualized, collaborative, trauma-informed treatment modalities. We seek to match you with the best fit therapist based on your presenting needs or personal goals.
See more therapy options for Windsor Mill
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Windsor Mill
- Baltimore
- Catonsville
- Elkridge
- Ellicott City
- Lutherville
- Lutherville Timonium
- Owings Mills
- Pikesville
- Reisterstown
- Roland Park
- Timonium
- Towson
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.