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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Homstead - Spooky Barbie Healing LLC, LCSW, LADC, CCS , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Spooky Barbie Healing LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, CCS
Verified Verified
Ellsworth, ME 04605
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Super Resourcing.
My name is Ashley Homstead, LCSW, LADC, CCS, and I am here to guide you through the transformative process of trauma therapy, Holistic Life Coaching, and Pranic Healing. In a world that often leaves its marks on our hearts, bodies, and minds, it is vital to address the wounds that trauma, anxiety, and depression may have inflicted upon you. I am here to assist you in identifying your unique needs and crafting a tailored path toward holistic healing and lasting peace. Together, we will embark on a journey that honors your resilience and nurtures your spirit, uncovering the boundless possibilities for restoration that lie ahead.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Super Resourcing.
My name is Ashley Homstead, LCSW, LADC, CCS, and I am here to guide you through the transformative process of trauma therapy, Holistic Life Coaching, and Pranic Healing. In a world that often leaves its marks on our hearts, bodies, and minds, it is vital to address the wounds that trauma, anxiety, and depression may have inflicted upon you. I am here to assist you in identifying your unique needs and crafting a tailored path toward holistic healing and lasting peace. Together, we will embark on a journey that honors your resilience and nurtures your spirit, uncovering the boundless possibilities for restoration that lie ahead.
(207) 742-8645 View (207) 742-8645
Photo of Dr. Michelle Baker - Medication Management, Healthy Minds Counseling , DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Medication Management, Healthy Minds Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DNP, FNP-BC, PMHNP-
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellsworth, ME 04605  (Online Only)
Minimum 3-4 week waiting list. Our practice offers a range of medication options for behavioral health issues in both adults and children. We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient. We also offer outpatient therapy services.
Minimum 3-4 week waiting list. Our practice offers a range of medication options for behavioral health issues in both adults and children. We provide personalized treatment plans tailored to meet the specific needs of each patient. We also offer outpatient therapy services.
(207) 496-1911 View (207) 496-1911
Photo of Jade Brown - Jade-Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jade-Healthy Minds Counseling, Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ellsworth, ME 04605  (Online Only)
My name is Jade Brown, and I have spent nearly a decade in the helping profession. I began my career as a Child Protective Worker in the roles of Permanency Planning and Investigating severe abuse and death cases. I later shifted my focus to clinical work and moved into the role of a Multi-Systemic Therapist providing intensive family-focused therapy treatment to those who have experienced child abuse, neglect,drug abuse, violent behaviors, and psychiatric disorders. I have experience providing Social work services in early interventions, serving children ages 0-3 and their families.
My name is Jade Brown, and I have spent nearly a decade in the helping profession. I began my career as a Child Protective Worker in the roles of Permanency Planning and Investigating severe abuse and death cases. I later shifted my focus to clinical work and moved into the role of a Multi-Systemic Therapist providing intensive family-focused therapy treatment to those who have experienced child abuse, neglect,drug abuse, violent behaviors, and psychiatric disorders. I have experience providing Social work services in early interventions, serving children ages 0-3 and their families.
(207) 865-8642 View (207) 865-8642
Photo of Pandora Lee MacLean-Hoover, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pandora Lee MacLean-Hoover
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Hill, ME 04614
Clients want RESULTS. Everyone feels overwhelmed and/or doesn't know how to effect the changes they want at some point during their life. Sometimes, the job is just too big for one person. You need a team to rebuild. Results oriented: I'll work with you to help you reach your goals! My Accelerated 3-Day Events are held in scenic Down East Maine. Clients who meet the criteria for these experience remarkable breakthroughs. This is especially true for COUPLES! More often than not, weekly 60 minutes sessions are counter productive. If you feel ready, contact me to learn more about my GREEN2TEE events.
Clients want RESULTS. Everyone feels overwhelmed and/or doesn't know how to effect the changes they want at some point during their life. Sometimes, the job is just too big for one person. You need a team to rebuild. Results oriented: I'll work with you to help you reach your goals! My Accelerated 3-Day Events are held in scenic Down East Maine. Clients who meet the criteria for these experience remarkable breakthroughs. This is especially true for COUPLES! More often than not, weekly 60 minutes sessions are counter productive. If you feel ready, contact me to learn more about my GREEN2TEE events.
(207) 690-6687 View (207) 690-6687
Photo of James Daikan Bastien, LCSW, MHD, CMTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Daikan Bastien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MHD, CMTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Blue Hill, ME 04614
Are you wondering what your life would be like if you were able to align your thoughts, feelings, emotions, and actions with your values? Are you willing to learn how to take committed action in the service of what you most care about? Would you find it helpful to learn specific practices to embrace life as it is rather than the way your conceptualizing mind tells you it must be?
Are you wondering what your life would be like if you were able to align your thoughts, feelings, emotions, and actions with your values? Are you willing to learn how to take committed action in the service of what you most care about? Would you find it helpful to learn specific practices to embrace life as it is rather than the way your conceptualizing mind tells you it must be?
(207) 610-4963 View (207) 610-4963
Cecily Judd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ellsworth, ME 04605
(207) 421-9493 View (207) 421-9493

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Hanic, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Hanic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
Jennifer Hanic, LCSW, practices at LifeStance Health in Maine, bringing over 20 years of experience to her clients. Jennifer is dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel supported and understood. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to address a range of mental health issues.
Jennifer Hanic, LCSW, practices at LifeStance Health in Maine, bringing over 20 years of experience to her clients. Jennifer is dedicated to creating a therapeutic environment where clients feel supported and understood. She utilizes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to address a range of mental health issues.
(866) 505-6081 View (866) 505-6081
Photo of Jules Beddie, LCSW, CYT, AHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jules Beddie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CYT, AHC
Verified Verified
Falmouth, ME 04105
I primarily use EMDR, meditation, mindfulness, and contemplative practices.
My hope is to bring awareness to your past and present experiences to facilitate a true healing in moving forward. It is possible to move through darkness into your light. I have an understanding and awareness of psychological and somatic/body patterning to help with trauma from abuse, acute events, relationship/attachment struggles, grief/loss, chronic pain, self-esteem/love, life transitions, and faith based/spiritual needs. Life events and experiences shape the way we see ourselves and how we live out each day. I believe a person can connect their mind, body, senses, heart and soul to return to inner balance and health.
I primarily use EMDR, meditation, mindfulness, and contemplative practices.
My hope is to bring awareness to your past and present experiences to facilitate a true healing in moving forward. It is possible to move through darkness into your light. I have an understanding and awareness of psychological and somatic/body patterning to help with trauma from abuse, acute events, relationship/attachment struggles, grief/loss, chronic pain, self-esteem/love, life transitions, and faith based/spiritual needs. Life events and experiences shape the way we see ourselves and how we live out each day. I believe a person can connect their mind, body, senses, heart and soul to return to inner balance and health.
(207) 739-4508 View (207) 739-4508
Photo of Joel Lavenson - Joel Lavenson - Advanced Counseling and Therapy, MA, NCC, LPC, LCPC, BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joel Lavenson - Advanced Counseling and Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LCPC, BC
Verified Verified
Belgrade, ME 04917
Serving Connecticut and Maine with a love for helping others, A Caring, Competent and Effective counseling approach. Board Certified PTSD Clinician Board Certified Professional Counselor NEW OnLine Video Remote EMDR treatment for PTSD Certified Clinical IMAGO Relationship Therapist Certified Clinical EMDR Specialist Advanced Counseling and Therapy Center, is a powerful and compassionate counseling approach that works when other treatments, approaches and protocols have not. Stuck in power struggles, depression, anxiety and unresolved issues? Certified IMAGO Relationship Therapist. 20 years of experience helping people Find Their Way. A Veteran and love to be of value in helping individuals, families, and couples with the most challenging issues .
Serving Connecticut and Maine with a love for helping others, A Caring, Competent and Effective counseling approach. Board Certified PTSD Clinician Board Certified Professional Counselor NEW OnLine Video Remote EMDR treatment for PTSD Certified Clinical IMAGO Relationship Therapist Certified Clinical EMDR Specialist Advanced Counseling and Therapy Center, is a powerful and compassionate counseling approach that works when other treatments, approaches and protocols have not. Stuck in power struggles, depression, anxiety and unresolved issues? Certified IMAGO Relationship Therapist. 20 years of experience helping people Find Their Way. A Veteran and love to be of value in helping individuals, families, and couples with the most challenging issues .
(207) 835-3525 View (207) 835-3525
Photo of Cathy J Cumler-Dennis - CCDennis Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
CCDennis Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hallowell, ME 04347
I am a psychotherapist who enjoys working with a wide variety of people and issues. I specialize in trauma work utilizing a treatment called EMDR which is particularly effective to ameliorate flashbacks and nightmares. I also treat many clients with anxiety and depression. I work with adolescents, and adults individually, or as couples or families. A variety of treatment modalities used in my practice include psycho education regarding men's and women's issues, codependency, information specific to a particular diagnosis, cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy, EMDR, as well as several others.
I am a psychotherapist who enjoys working with a wide variety of people and issues. I specialize in trauma work utilizing a treatment called EMDR which is particularly effective to ameliorate flashbacks and nightmares. I also treat many clients with anxiety and depression. I work with adolescents, and adults individually, or as couples or families. A variety of treatment modalities used in my practice include psycho education regarding men's and women's issues, codependency, information specific to a particular diagnosis, cognitive and dialectical behavior therapy, EMDR, as well as several others.
(207) 560-0727 View (207) 560-0727
Photo of Corey Walmer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Corey Walmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Yarmouth, ME 04096  (Online Only)
I recently relocated to South Carolina and am dually licensed in both SC and ME. My practice is based on the belief that all of us at some time may benefit from having someone walk awhile with us on life’s journey. I provide support, insight and tools to support your travel on this labyrinth we call life. Trauma, situational stressors, relational issues and low self esteem are just a few challenges that can slow or derail us. I am experienced in navigating these issues with clients in order to encourage forward movement. I utilize an eclectic approach including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Polyvagal theory and DBT.
I recently relocated to South Carolina and am dually licensed in both SC and ME. My practice is based on the belief that all of us at some time may benefit from having someone walk awhile with us on life’s journey. I provide support, insight and tools to support your travel on this labyrinth we call life. Trauma, situational stressors, relational issues and low self esteem are just a few challenges that can slow or derail us. I am experienced in navigating these issues with clients in order to encourage forward movement. I utilize an eclectic approach including EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Polyvagal theory and DBT.
(843) 286-4731 View (843) 286-4731
Photo of Peter Gallway, LMFT, LADC, NCAC II, Marriage & Family Therapist
Peter Gallway
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC, NCAC II
Verified Verified
Rockland, ME 04841  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With 20 years in the treatment field and over three decades of personal recovery, I have a full range of experience in the areas of anxiety and depression, relationship, couples and family dynamics, substance abuse, addictions, PTSD and trauma. I am a trained practitioner in CBT, DBT, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Motivational Interviewing, EMDR and TRM (Trauma Resiliency Model) modalities and specialize in working with adults in a broad-based practice.
With 20 years in the treatment field and over three decades of personal recovery, I have a full range of experience in the areas of anxiety and depression, relationship, couples and family dynamics, substance abuse, addictions, PTSD and trauma. I am a trained practitioner in CBT, DBT, ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Motivational Interviewing, EMDR and TRM (Trauma Resiliency Model) modalities and specialize in working with adults in a broad-based practice.
(207) 481-4040 View (207) 481-4040
Photo of Carol Despres, LCSW, EMDR II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Despres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR II
Verified Verified
Freeport, ME 04032
Specializing in PTSD/Anxiety/Depression, I work to facilitate your body's innate healing response through possible EMDR, CBT & Eclectic applications.
Welcome! In this very moment you're choosing to be on your journey. My therapeutic philosophy is to facilitate and support your body's innate healing response through the applications of EMDR, (EMDRIA.ORG) and heart-centered therapies. EMDR in particular works to liberate clients from past trauma memories whether that be small "t" trauma or big 'T" trauma and to transform a person's subconscious beliefs thus "turning down the volume" on negative memories/negative beliefs and transforming those subconscious beliefs back into positive core beliefs so that you may become your highest aspect of yourself.
Specializing in PTSD/Anxiety/Depression, I work to facilitate your body's innate healing response through possible EMDR, CBT & Eclectic applications.
Welcome! In this very moment you're choosing to be on your journey. My therapeutic philosophy is to facilitate and support your body's innate healing response through the applications of EMDR, (EMDRIA.ORG) and heart-centered therapies. EMDR in particular works to liberate clients from past trauma memories whether that be small "t" trauma or big 'T" trauma and to transform a person's subconscious beliefs thus "turning down the volume" on negative memories/negative beliefs and transforming those subconscious beliefs back into positive core beliefs so that you may become your highest aspect of yourself.
(207) 426-4205 View (207) 426-4205
Photo of Susan Cook, EdD, Psychologist
Susan Cook
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Brunswick, ME 04011
I am trained in a number of techniques: EMDR, mindfulness strategies, cognitive-behavioral treatment, DBT and play therapy and integrate relaxation strategies in our work.
In my calm, safe, confidential office, I am currently offering HIPAA secure Online video sessions using a HIPPA-compliant secure platform or phone consultations. We integrate CDC guidelines for COVID-19 for any inperson sessions. My 25 years of clinical experience have taught me about the courage those facing complex life difficulties bring to psychotherapy. Adults, children and adolescents are given help finding solutions. Mindfulness techniques which I have discovered the value of through a 25+ year meditation practice are also of benefit to clients who are looking to make life changes.
I am trained in a number of techniques: EMDR, mindfulness strategies, cognitive-behavioral treatment, DBT and play therapy and integrate relaxation strategies in our work.
In my calm, safe, confidential office, I am currently offering HIPAA secure Online video sessions using a HIPPA-compliant secure platform or phone consultations. We integrate CDC guidelines for COVID-19 for any inperson sessions. My 25 years of clinical experience have taught me about the courage those facing complex life difficulties bring to psychotherapy. Adults, children and adolescents are given help finding solutions. Mindfulness techniques which I have discovered the value of through a 25+ year meditation practice are also of benefit to clients who are looking to make life changes.
(207) 747-3831 View (207) 747-3831
Photo of Rachel Morici-Leirer, LPC, LCPC, CIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Morici-Leirer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cumberland Foreside, ME 04110  (Online Only)
I specialize in highly sensitive individuals & offer EMDR/trauma work.
Serving CO & Maine. Are you a sensitive soul perhaps overwhelmed by stress? I am here to help you find your balance again & develop tools to establish a clearer, more resilient path moving forward. I will evaluate your needs as a whole person & help you to feel good again, to find wellness & peace. Different from traditional therapy, I offer guidance that looks at all aspects of health, incorporating both your psychological & physical health/wellness in counseling. This approach means longer term, sustained progress. My skills support individuals with varying chronic conditions, such as autoimmune, chronic anxiety & chronic pain.
I specialize in highly sensitive individuals & offer EMDR/trauma work.
Serving CO & Maine. Are you a sensitive soul perhaps overwhelmed by stress? I am here to help you find your balance again & develop tools to establish a clearer, more resilient path moving forward. I will evaluate your needs as a whole person & help you to feel good again, to find wellness & peace. Different from traditional therapy, I offer guidance that looks at all aspects of health, incorporating both your psychological & physical health/wellness in counseling. This approach means longer term, sustained progress. My skills support individuals with varying chronic conditions, such as autoimmune, chronic anxiety & chronic pain.
(719) 451-7796 View (719) 451-7796
Photo of Este Underdown, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Este Underdown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Rockland, ME 04841
If you are feeling stuck, PTSD, overwhelmed, frustrated, confused or sad lets make the new become familiar in order to achieve what you want. I provide individual therapy with adults, parenting issues with children. My passion is inspiring women in transition, addressing depression, trauma, anxiety and substance abuse while focusing on empowerment and independence. I implement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Informed Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and Internal Family Systems. It doesn't take a lifetime to change your thinking or habits. New beginnings are possible!
If you are feeling stuck, PTSD, overwhelmed, frustrated, confused or sad lets make the new become familiar in order to achieve what you want. I provide individual therapy with adults, parenting issues with children. My passion is inspiring women in transition, addressing depression, trauma, anxiety and substance abuse while focusing on empowerment and independence. I implement Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Informed Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and Internal Family Systems. It doesn't take a lifetime to change your thinking or habits. New beginnings are possible!
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Photo of Gwen M Ackley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwen M Ackley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Belfast, ME 04915
Interventions I use include but are not limited to: EMDR, trauma focused, cognitive-behavioral, DBT, mindfulness, meditation and solution focused approaches.
Hi, thanks for checking out my profile. Please email me as this allows me to respond more quickly to your questions. I absolutely enjoy providing thoughtful caring therapy focused on your needs. I specialize in individualized care for adults. I can help you change your thought patterns and behaviors to have an increased sense of inner calm and improved well-being.
Interventions I use include but are not limited to: EMDR, trauma focused, cognitive-behavioral, DBT, mindfulness, meditation and solution focused approaches.
Hi, thanks for checking out my profile. Please email me as this allows me to respond more quickly to your questions. I absolutely enjoy providing thoughtful caring therapy focused on your needs. I specialize in individualized care for adults. I can help you change your thought patterns and behaviors to have an increased sense of inner calm and improved well-being.
(207) 560-0732 View (207) 560-0732
Photo of Cassandra Snow, LCPC, Counselor
Cassandra Snow
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hallowell, ME 04347
Waitlist for new clients
I use EMDR to help process trauma and other evidence based modalities to help them rewire their nervous system to turn off the constant hypervigilance.
I specialize in individual and couples counseling with veterans, first responders and individuals with problematic sexual behaviors/addictions. For individuals struggling with problematic sexual behaviors and addictions, I help them identify the root needs that are met through sex, porn, masturbation, infidelity or other undesired sexual behaviors as well as build skills. I work with Maine Department of Corrections to provide sex offense specific counseling to meet needs of probation or deferred dispositions. I also provide Psychosexual Risk Assessments for juveniles and adults who are required by court or probation to have one.
I use EMDR to help process trauma and other evidence based modalities to help them rewire their nervous system to turn off the constant hypervigilance.
I specialize in individual and couples counseling with veterans, first responders and individuals with problematic sexual behaviors/addictions. For individuals struggling with problematic sexual behaviors and addictions, I help them identify the root needs that are met through sex, porn, masturbation, infidelity or other undesired sexual behaviors as well as build skills. I work with Maine Department of Corrections to provide sex offense specific counseling to meet needs of probation or deferred dispositions. I also provide Psychosexual Risk Assessments for juveniles and adults who are required by court or probation to have one.
(207) 489-2579 View (207) 489-2579
Photo of Kate Hyde - 207 Counseling, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
207 Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Freeport, ME 04032
EMDR is a highly effective treatment that helps people process experiences, make meaningful changes, and reduce distress from many of life's challenges.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the mental wellness field. I work with children, adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of circumstances including anxiety, depression, life stress, trauma, and adjustment challenges. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet each client's specific needs and concerns. I will always listen carefully to what you are saying, and do my best to help you trust your strengths and meet your goals.I also provide two specialized treatments: SPACE and EMDR.
EMDR is a highly effective treatment that helps people process experiences, make meaningful changes, and reduce distress from many of life's challenges.
Hello! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience in the mental wellness field. I work with children, adolescents and adults struggling with a variety of circumstances including anxiety, depression, life stress, trauma, and adjustment challenges. I use a variety of therapeutic approaches to meet each client's specific needs and concerns. I will always listen carefully to what you are saying, and do my best to help you trust your strengths and meet your goals.I also provide two specialized treatments: SPACE and EMDR.
(207) 598-4171 View (207) 598-4171
Photo of Tammy Trask - Creating Change Counseling , LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Creating Change Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hallowell, ME 04347
Have you been in therapy in the past and you don't want to tell your story yet again and perhaps you've lost hope? EMDR is not a talk therapy.
Are past traumas impacting your life? Do you say or do things that you later regret? Do you struggle with identifying and communicating your feelings? Do you have intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or recurring distressing dreams? Do you drink alcohol or use other substances or gamble or do other self-destructive behaviors that cause self-harm or disrupt your life? Are you a people pleaser? Do you struggle with setting boundaries? Anything that keeps you from living a full life is either built on a lie or a self-defeating memory; what is limiting you? What is keeping you from having the life you want?
Have you been in therapy in the past and you don't want to tell your story yet again and perhaps you've lost hope? EMDR is not a talk therapy.
Are past traumas impacting your life? Do you say or do things that you later regret? Do you struggle with identifying and communicating your feelings? Do you have intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, or recurring distressing dreams? Do you drink alcohol or use other substances or gamble or do other self-destructive behaviors that cause self-harm or disrupt your life? Are you a people pleaser? Do you struggle with setting boundaries? Anything that keeps you from living a full life is either built on a lie or a self-defeating memory; what is limiting you? What is keeping you from having the life you want?
(207) 306-2865 View (207) 306-2865

See more therapy options for Surry

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.