EMDR Therapists in Mount Clemens, MI
![Photo of Wesley Lawton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/782d75ff-e008-4539-9ccd-0fd5de99dfb2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wesley Lawton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Clemens, MI 48043
I've helped hundreds of grieving clients on their journeys, and have applied my advanced EMDR training to help clients heal from stressful and traumatic experiences.
Have you experienced a loss or traumatic event that's left you feeling stuck or directionless? Does it feel like life will never be good again? Do you just wish everything could to go back to how it used to be? Let me introduce myself: My name is Wesley, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor. I've dedicated my career to helping people just like you navigate through life's challenges and overcome the obstacles they face along the way.
I've helped hundreds of grieving clients on their journeys, and have applied my advanced EMDR training to help clients heal from stressful and traumatic experiences.
Have you experienced a loss or traumatic event that's left you feeling stuck or directionless? Does it feel like life will never be good again? Do you just wish everything could to go back to how it used to be? Let me introduce myself: My name is Wesley, and I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor. I've dedicated my career to helping people just like you navigate through life's challenges and overcome the obstacles they face along the way.
![Photo of James F Zender, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f97572-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My Clinical Psychology private practice allows for maximum individual attention and confidentiality. Since 1988, I have specialized in treating trauma conditions resulting from war, auto, workplace, violence and residuals of childhood abuse. Related conditions include depression, anxiety, physical pain, relationship difficulties, addictions and cognitive disorders. As a result of auto and occupational injuries, many patients/clients suffer Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injuries; and they can greatly benefit from my individual and group psychotherapy. I am a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist so some of my work involves cases in litigation including evaluations, testimony and expert witness services.
My Clinical Psychology private practice allows for maximum individual attention and confidentiality. Since 1988, I have specialized in treating trauma conditions resulting from war, auto, workplace, violence and residuals of childhood abuse. Related conditions include depression, anxiety, physical pain, relationship difficulties, addictions and cognitive disorders. As a result of auto and occupational injuries, many patients/clients suffer Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and Traumatic Brain Injuries; and they can greatly benefit from my individual and group psychotherapy. I am a Clinical and Forensic Psychologist so some of my work involves cases in litigation including evaluations, testimony and expert witness services.
![Photo of Tim Weaver, LMSW, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e288cc6a-dc64-4cf4-ae38-eb3b7ae33d04/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lets be honest, the world is going to Hell in a handbasket, and if that includes your world, I can help you. I am a licensed master social worker, but I fancy myself a psychologist at heart. This unites the best of the two disciplines as social work focuses on fair and ethical treatment for all humanity, while psychology emphasizes behavioral, psychoanalytical skills. Both of which I confidently uphold, and define my career path by. I have experience with both group and individual therapy relating to anger management, opioids, cognitive behavioral therapy, family dynamics, 12 steps, and many others.
Lets be honest, the world is going to Hell in a handbasket, and if that includes your world, I can help you. I am a licensed master social worker, but I fancy myself a psychologist at heart. This unites the best of the two disciplines as social work focuses on fair and ethical treatment for all humanity, while psychology emphasizes behavioral, psychoanalytical skills. Both of which I confidently uphold, and define my career path by. I have experience with both group and individual therapy relating to anger management, opioids, cognitive behavioral therapy, family dynamics, 12 steps, and many others.
![Photo of Suzi Duncan, LLPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2224ad82-7386-4df7-a7b7-3c7c7c684594/1/320x400.png)
Suzi Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Clemens, MI 48043
You've been through so much, and you're tired of carrying these heavy emotions on your own. There are days when you find it difficult to cope, and it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. The last thing you need is to feel stuck or helpless. You're not one to back down from a challenge, but there are moments when it all feels overwhelming, and it's hard to keep your resilience intact.
You've been through so much, and you're tired of carrying these heavy emotions on your own. There are days when you find it difficult to cope, and it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. The last thing you need is to feel stuck or helpless. You're not one to back down from a challenge, but there are moments when it all feels overwhelming, and it's hard to keep your resilience intact.
![Photo of Karen Groth - ASK Psychological Services PLLC, Limited Licensed Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/226bc675-7690-47b5-acb2-d5185b725008/1/320x400.jpeg)
ASK Psychological Services PLLC
Limited Licensed Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Clemens, MI 48043
We understand that life can be challenging, and sometimes, you may feel lost or burdened by past experiences or uncertain about your future. We're here to provide a compassionate space where your story is heard and valued. Whether you're struggling with finding your life's purpose, feeling trapped by your past, or seeking to transform your mental health, we can help. We specialize in working with first responders, law enforcement, military/veterans, the formerly incarcerated, and individuals currently involved in the justice system. Feeling stuck doesn't have to be your reality.
We understand that life can be challenging, and sometimes, you may feel lost or burdened by past experiences or uncertain about your future. We're here to provide a compassionate space where your story is heard and valued. Whether you're struggling with finding your life's purpose, feeling trapped by your past, or seeking to transform your mental health, we can help. We specialize in working with first responders, law enforcement, military/veterans, the formerly incarcerated, and individuals currently involved in the justice system. Feeling stuck doesn't have to be your reality.
![Photo of Arianna Zimmerman, LMSW, CST, CFSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f27f5b4e-d793-4b1c-add1-1aba253882cf/3/320x400.png)
Arianna Zimmerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CST, CFSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Clemens, MI 48043
I'm honored you're here. I admire your strength and courage to seek support through mental health therapy. I believe all individuals hold the ability to empower themselves through healing, acceptance, and understanding; both striving for inner peace and a sense of belonging in their world. I sincerely commend you for your bravery. Vulnerability is tough! My approach as a therapist is strengths-based, assisting individuals to recognize their inherent resilience through self-exploration and empowerment. Through warmth and compassion I aim to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and supportive environment to attain your unique goals.
I'm honored you're here. I admire your strength and courage to seek support through mental health therapy. I believe all individuals hold the ability to empower themselves through healing, acceptance, and understanding; both striving for inner peace and a sense of belonging in their world. I sincerely commend you for your bravery. Vulnerability is tough! My approach as a therapist is strengths-based, assisting individuals to recognize their inherent resilience through self-exploration and empowerment. Through warmth and compassion I aim to create a comfortable, non-judgmental, and supportive environment to attain your unique goals.
![Photo of Deborah L Conrad-Garrisi, RN, PhD, LP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed69d6d-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah L Conrad-Garrisi
Psychologist, RN, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Clemens, MI 48043
My ideal client is looking to make changes in their life, either to improve functioning, improve personal relationships, or would like to find a greater sense of personal life satisfaction, meaningfulness, and inner contentment. My ideal client may have recently experienced a crisis or increase in stressors or has a long history of experiencing interpersonal struggles and unhappiness and is looking for a therapist that provides an empathic approach and offers a safe nonjudgemental environment to explore thoughts and feelings. My client is interested in learning effective coping skills, how to challenge distorted thinking, and ways to improve self-esteem.
My ideal client is looking to make changes in their life, either to improve functioning, improve personal relationships, or would like to find a greater sense of personal life satisfaction, meaningfulness, and inner contentment. My ideal client may have recently experienced a crisis or increase in stressors or has a long history of experiencing interpersonal struggles and unhappiness and is looking for a therapist that provides an empathic approach and offers a safe nonjudgemental environment to explore thoughts and feelings. My client is interested in learning effective coping skills, how to challenge distorted thinking, and ways to improve self-esteem.
![Photo of Terry Flint, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/75560a82-14d7-424b-9cb5-7c85bd2acb48/2/320x400.jpeg)
Additionally I have also had training in CBT and EMDR to help individuals find recovery from trauma.
Inspiring others to believe, and sometimes believe again," is my personal mission. I have had extensive experience working with couples, men, and adolescent boys, helping people find resolution with depression, anger, anxiety, PTSD, Grief and Loss, and trauma. I am especially interested in helping people enrich their marriages, relationships, achieve fulfillment, and grow personally to value themselves and others. Christian principles guide my counseling, however, I respect, value, and honor my clients’ individuality, faith practices, and growth aspirations. "Nothing changes until I do." I do offer telehealth.
Additionally I have also had training in CBT and EMDR to help individuals find recovery from trauma.
Inspiring others to believe, and sometimes believe again," is my personal mission. I have had extensive experience working with couples, men, and adolescent boys, helping people find resolution with depression, anger, anxiety, PTSD, Grief and Loss, and trauma. I am especially interested in helping people enrich their marriages, relationships, achieve fulfillment, and grow personally to value themselves and others. Christian principles guide my counseling, however, I respect, value, and honor my clients’ individuality, faith practices, and growth aspirations. "Nothing changes until I do." I do offer telehealth.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Hayley Marlow, LMSW, IMH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5b2b6190-43e8-4eb4-bbdd-f8af5f09912e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hayley Marlow
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, IMH
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Also, I've been trained in EMDR and DBT to assist with trauma and have a dual degree in Infant Mental Health.
Everyone has their own unique identity and experiences. As a therapist, my focus is to embrace these differences by working collaboratively with each client to create a personalized plan that will meet them where they’re at in life, best fit their needs, and be comfortable enough to help them learn, grow, and think in a healthy way. My clinical work is devoted to consistently being present for my clients by walking with them through this journey of healing while creating a non-judgmental, therapeutic space for them to be heard, understood, and supported while making behavioral and cognitive changes to enhance their quality of life.
Also, I've been trained in EMDR and DBT to assist with trauma and have a dual degree in Infant Mental Health.
Everyone has their own unique identity and experiences. As a therapist, my focus is to embrace these differences by working collaboratively with each client to create a personalized plan that will meet them where they’re at in life, best fit their needs, and be comfortable enough to help them learn, grow, and think in a healthy way. My clinical work is devoted to consistently being present for my clients by walking with them through this journey of healing while creating a non-judgmental, therapeutic space for them to be heard, understood, and supported while making behavioral and cognitive changes to enhance their quality of life.
![Photo of Megan Ulrich, MA, RMFTI, LLC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d7002302-dd6a-4f85-8fdd-c554ce5a8651/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am passionate about providing evidence based practices which are unique to each individuals needs. I have training and certifications in TF-CBT, EMDR, MATCH and Gottman Level 1 and I have 100 post graduate direct supervision hours in Florida under my RMFTI (registered marriage and family therapy intern) license.
I am passionate about providing evidence based practices which are unique to each individuals needs. I have training and certifications in TF-CBT, EMDR, MATCH and Gottman Level 1 and I have 100 post graduate direct supervision hours in Florida under my RMFTI (registered marriage and family therapy intern) license.
![Photo of Samantha Colavecchia, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fde640b1-ea0e-4c19-89b4-5a057cfe3aaa/1/320x400.png)
Samantha Colavecchia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clinton Township, MI 48038 (Online Only)
Do you struggle with managing the anxiety and mental exhaustion of being a working parent or a parent of a child with high medical needs? Do the challenges of day-to-day life have you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and lost? Do you wish that you had the support of a professional to navigate these difficulties? I want to help provide support to not only help you survive these difficult times, but help change your perspective of what life could actually be like. I enjoy utilizing EMDR to help you get to the root of your anxiety.
Do you struggle with managing the anxiety and mental exhaustion of being a working parent or a parent of a child with high medical needs? Do the challenges of day-to-day life have you feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, and lost? Do you wish that you had the support of a professional to navigate these difficulties? I want to help provide support to not only help you survive these difficult times, but help change your perspective of what life could actually be like. I enjoy utilizing EMDR to help you get to the root of your anxiety.
![Photo of Rosalie Craft, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f003089-ff0e-40ec-8626-32e796416f3a/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have extensive training in cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, relaxation and guided imagery.
Everyone has a story and a desire to be heard. Sharing your story is the first step toward healing. Healing from an emotional crisis takes time, effort, and hope. I will help you define your hope through the development of an action plan that fits your needs and healing potential..
I have extensive training in cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, relaxation and guided imagery.
Everyone has a story and a desire to be heard. Sharing your story is the first step toward healing. Healing from an emotional crisis takes time, effort, and hope. I will help you define your hope through the development of an action plan that fits your needs and healing potential..
![Photo of Deirdra White - Whole Life Balance, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1ea99e6e-da31-4e78-aa97-988189626858/1/320x400.png)
At Whole Life Balance we strive to help others find their purpose, direction, motivation, and balance again. A focus on physical wellbeing, healing from trauma, and nervous system repair can help facilitate this balance. UPDATE: Tammara Sand has limited evening openings as of 1/15/24. Tammara is highly skilled in trauma treatment and is EMDR certified. Call or email today to schedule!
At Whole Life Balance we strive to help others find their purpose, direction, motivation, and balance again. A focus on physical wellbeing, healing from trauma, and nervous system repair can help facilitate this balance. UPDATE: Tammara Sand has limited evening openings as of 1/15/24. Tammara is highly skilled in trauma treatment and is EMDR certified. Call or email today to schedule!
![Photo of Mark Kauffman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40393c05-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mark Kauffman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sterling Heights, MI 48310
As well as Grief, Life Transitions, Special Needs/Life Skills, and Trauma as I am trained as a EMDR therapist.
Every one of us are unique and beautiful from the inside out. I believe we deserve to live a happy and fulfilled life. I am there for you unconditionally so you are able to make those positive changes you desire. The end result of the therapeutic process will have you having a healthier outlook on life. I will help and assist you with the issues that brought you in for therapy. I believe with the right mindset you can achieve anything.
As well as Grief, Life Transitions, Special Needs/Life Skills, and Trauma as I am trained as a EMDR therapist.
Every one of us are unique and beautiful from the inside out. I believe we deserve to live a happy and fulfilled life. I am there for you unconditionally so you are able to make those positive changes you desire. The end result of the therapeutic process will have you having a healthier outlook on life. I will help and assist you with the issues that brought you in for therapy. I believe with the right mindset you can achieve anything.
![Photo of Ke Liu, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06f8b330-2dee-40fc-af13-d4eeeb5718b1/1/320x400.png)
I integrate mindfulness into contemporary trauma treatment frameworks like IFS, EMDR, and polyvagal to help clients with "unfinished business" in the past, developmental trauma or chronic PTSD.
Talk therapy serves a valuable purpose by aiding your brain in processing challenging emotions during specific moments in your life and enabling introspection regarding associated thoughts. However, what if you find yourself trapped in the depressive, anxious, angry, or shameful mental state for so long that you have nothing new to explore? What if, despite recounting your traumatic experiences numerous times, your low energy, sadness, avoidance, anger, or impulsivity still persists? And what if the somatic reactions triggered by certain events are so intense and rapid that you are unable to employ sound judgment?
I integrate mindfulness into contemporary trauma treatment frameworks like IFS, EMDR, and polyvagal to help clients with "unfinished business" in the past, developmental trauma or chronic PTSD.
Talk therapy serves a valuable purpose by aiding your brain in processing challenging emotions during specific moments in your life and enabling introspection regarding associated thoughts. However, what if you find yourself trapped in the depressive, anxious, angry, or shameful mental state for so long that you have nothing new to explore? What if, despite recounting your traumatic experiences numerous times, your low energy, sadness, avoidance, anger, or impulsivity still persists? And what if the somatic reactions triggered by certain events are so intense and rapid that you are unable to employ sound judgment?
![Photo of Tami Hubbard, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f668c4f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tami Hubbard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236 (Online Only)
3 step focus of Sage Therapy- 1-EMDR-- to remove all blockages (traumas, behaviors, intrusive thoughts, old habits) 2- Feelings Facilitating- which leads to a lifting of all emotional states and a clearing to a more joyful path.
Are you having Mental health symptoms or awakening symptoms? Do you feel stuck in the OLD and wanting to become NEW? Are you experiencing symptoms mentally, emotionally and physically from the fear and uncertainty that is present ? Lets explore together what you need to move forward on this journey with more ease which will bring you into alignment and embodiment with your Whole Self. I have been on this Journey for years and facilitating others in this process of integration/transmutation along my path. Come and explore this 3 step process of natural awakening and evolve to new YOU! -
3 step focus of Sage Therapy- 1-EMDR-- to remove all blockages (traumas, behaviors, intrusive thoughts, old habits) 2- Feelings Facilitating- which leads to a lifting of all emotional states and a clearing to a more joyful path.
Are you having Mental health symptoms or awakening symptoms? Do you feel stuck in the OLD and wanting to become NEW? Are you experiencing symptoms mentally, emotionally and physically from the fear and uncertainty that is present ? Lets explore together what you need to move forward on this journey with more ease which will bring you into alignment and embodiment with your Whole Self. I have been on this Journey for years and facilitating others in this process of integration/transmutation along my path. Come and explore this 3 step process of natural awakening and evolve to new YOU! -
![Photo of Chelsea Rumohr, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac09b593-0c59-4cba-8c07-f86d72926194/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chelsea Rumohr
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Clair Shores, MI 48080
Waitlist for new clients
To best meet your individual needs, I draw from several therapeutic techniques, am trauma informed, and am trained in both EMDR and ERP Therapy.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a woman, you may be often seen as "Super Woman", where you can do it all and be it all, while putting others and their needs before your own. But the truth is, you are human. You may be feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious or maybe you are struggling with finding balance in your life.
To best meet your individual needs, I draw from several therapeutic techniques, am trauma informed, and am trained in both EMDR and ERP Therapy.
I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. As a woman, you may be often seen as "Super Woman", where you can do it all and be it all, while putting others and their needs before your own. But the truth is, you are human. You may be feeling overwhelmed, depressed, or anxious or maybe you are struggling with finding balance in your life.
![Photo of Emily McCrandall, MA, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dd4ebc29-8686-46c6-9116-f6d8d0cfdf2e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily McCrandall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
Sterling Heights, MI 48310
If you've been struggling with life and circumstances, you are not alone. I applaud you for seeking out help with your challenges because it means that you are brave (stepping outside of your comfort zone) and that you have made the decision to do something about your mental health (also brave). I work with many survivors of various trauma and I am trained in EMDR. If you need a good listener, somebody who is in your life to support you, somebody who is not afraid to encourage you to take control of your circumstances and mindset, and someone who can provide insight and education about mental health, I would love to meet with you!
If you've been struggling with life and circumstances, you are not alone. I applaud you for seeking out help with your challenges because it means that you are brave (stepping outside of your comfort zone) and that you have made the decision to do something about your mental health (also brave). I work with many survivors of various trauma and I am trained in EMDR. If you need a good listener, somebody who is in your life to support you, somebody who is not afraid to encourage you to take control of your circumstances and mindset, and someone who can provide insight and education about mental health, I would love to meet with you!
![Photo of Tracie J Duncan, MA, LLPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6018f8f9-95fb-40ab-a890-091ed0780cd9/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a lot of life experience. For over 7 years I have been providing crisis counseling (CISM) to first responders, families, individuals, and those impacted by traumatic events. My passion is helping individuals who have experienced trauma or stressors in their life to become healthy and whole. The areas of interest are first responders, military, anxiety related issues, depression, PTSD, trauma, and other general issues. I am trained in EMDR therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples. "We walk side by side".
I have a Masters degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling with a lot of life experience. For over 7 years I have been providing crisis counseling (CISM) to first responders, families, individuals, and those impacted by traumatic events. My passion is helping individuals who have experienced trauma or stressors in their life to become healthy and whole. The areas of interest are first responders, military, anxiety related issues, depression, PTSD, trauma, and other general issues. I am trained in EMDR therapy. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples. "We walk side by side".
![Photo of Kathleen Nowicki, LMSW, CTP-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5382f3d5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen Nowicki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTP-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Utica, MI 48317
I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and also certified in EMDR therapy.
On the outside it seems like you have it all together, but inside you are struggling with sadness, depression, or anxiety. Does your life always feel chaotic? Perhaps you are dealing with deeply buried childhood trauma or you have recently experienced a traumatic event. Making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult. I offer a safe, comfortable space to explore life's challenges. My approach to therapy is relaxed and interactive and together we will create goals that will both encourage and challenge you.
I am a Certified Trauma Professional, and also certified in EMDR therapy.
On the outside it seems like you have it all together, but inside you are struggling with sadness, depression, or anxiety. Does your life always feel chaotic? Perhaps you are dealing with deeply buried childhood trauma or you have recently experienced a traumatic event. Making the decision to begin therapy can be difficult. I offer a safe, comfortable space to explore life's challenges. My approach to therapy is relaxed and interactive and together we will create goals that will both encourage and challenge you.
See more therapy options for Mount Clemens
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Mount Clemens
- Chesterfield
- Clinton Township
- Eastpointe
- Grosse Pointe Farms
- Macomb
- New Baltimore
- Roseville
- Saint Clair Shores
- Shelby Township
- Sterling Heights
- Utica
- Warren
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.