EMDR Therapists in Southgate, MI

Photo of Crystal M Davis, LLC, Counselor
Crystal M Davis
Counselor, LLC
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195
My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from various modalities, including eye movement de-sensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), skill building, and various solution-focused techniques.
I strive to create a safe growth-oriented space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions, working to uncover behavior patterns and gain insights into past experiences. I encourage clients to draw from their own strengths and resilience. Working collaboratively with my clients, I aim to foster new perspectives, increase self-awareness, and equip my clients with tools to create lasting change in their lives. I work with individuals and couples grappling with various obstacles, including depression, trauma, anxiety, adjustment issues, chronic illnesses, and low esteem. I am trauma focused and EMDR trained.
My therapeutic approach is integrative, drawing from various modalities, including eye movement de-sensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), skill building, and various solution-focused techniques.
I strive to create a safe growth-oriented space for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions, working to uncover behavior patterns and gain insights into past experiences. I encourage clients to draw from their own strengths and resilience. Working collaboratively with my clients, I aim to foster new perspectives, increase self-awareness, and equip my clients with tools to create lasting change in their lives. I work with individuals and couples grappling with various obstacles, including depression, trauma, anxiety, adjustment issues, chronic illnesses, and low esteem. I am trauma focused and EMDR trained.
(734) 849-3457 View (734) 849-3457
Photo of Daleeda Makki, CAADC, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daleeda Makki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CAADC, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195  (Online Only)
I offer different types of therapies like CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (Dialectical behavior therapy), and EMDR (eye movement desensitization & reprocessing).
Do you feel powerless over your thoughts & feelings but do not know where to begin to identify the reasons you feel this way? It can feel like you have been dealing with the same issues over & over with no solution. You may have even tried different coping skills but nothing seems to get to that root cause, which I believe must be addressed. As a psychotherapist who specializes in Addiction, Trauma and PTSD I understand that we avoid many memories from the past due to pain, fear, sadness, etc. However, these memories we avoid are the reason we are feeling stuck right now.
I offer different types of therapies like CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy), DBT (Dialectical behavior therapy), and EMDR (eye movement desensitization & reprocessing).
Do you feel powerless over your thoughts & feelings but do not know where to begin to identify the reasons you feel this way? It can feel like you have been dealing with the same issues over & over with no solution. You may have even tried different coping skills but nothing seems to get to that root cause, which I believe must be addressed. As a psychotherapist who specializes in Addiction, Trauma and PTSD I understand that we avoid many memories from the past due to pain, fear, sadness, etc. However, these memories we avoid are the reason we are feeling stuck right now.
(313) 546-1209 View (313) 546-1209
Photo of Claire Marion - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Southgate, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Southgate
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Southgate understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Southgate understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
(734) 530-3377 View (734) 530-3377
Photo of Richard Kneip - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Ann Arbor, Psychologist
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Ann Arbor
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Ann Arbor understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Ann Arbor understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
(734) 514-4551 View (734) 514-4551
Photo of Nicholas Pikaart, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicholas Pikaart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195
Nicholas graduated from University of Michigan in 2018 with a Master of Social Work. Since then, he has worked in a variety of therapeutic settings working with adults, children, and families. Nicholas focuses on anxiety and depression, and works with all clients to provide them with an empathetic, calming, and supportive experience. Nicholas is also specialized in trauma-focused cognitive therapy and has worked with adults and children to resolve past traumas in healthy ways.
Nicholas graduated from University of Michigan in 2018 with a Master of Social Work. Since then, he has worked in a variety of therapeutic settings working with adults, children, and families. Nicholas focuses on anxiety and depression, and works with all clients to provide them with an empathetic, calming, and supportive experience. Nicholas is also specialized in trauma-focused cognitive therapy and has worked with adults and children to resolve past traumas in healthy ways.
(734) 821-6624 View (734) 821-6624
Photo of Robin L Keller, LLP, ATR, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Robin L Keller
Limited Licensed Psychologist, LLP, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Southgate, MI 48195  (Online Only)
Many of my clients have shared with me that felt they were "broken". I see my clients as hurting rather than broken and assist them in healing. I earned master's degrees in art therapy/art education (Wayne State University, 2013) and clinical psychology (Michigan School of Psychology, 2015).
Many of my clients have shared with me that felt they were "broken". I see my clients as hurting rather than broken and assist them in healing. I earned master's degrees in art therapy/art education (Wayne State University, 2013) and clinical psychology (Michigan School of Psychology, 2015).
(734) 724-6187 View (734) 724-6187
Photo of Claire Marion - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Dearborn, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Dearborn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Dearborn understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Dearborn understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
(248) 657-4098 View (248) 657-4098
Photo of Crysta Ransom-Soper, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crysta Ransom-Soper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195  (Online Only)
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Unsure where to start? Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD can affect everyone in different ways. It can affect anyone of any age. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, depression, flashbacks, negative thought, etc... help is only one phone call or email away. Therapy can be hard, but worth it. Every session should leave you feeling more hopeful, inspired and empowered. Let's walk together through your healing journey. I can provide you the knowledge and skills you need to get your life back on track.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Unsure where to start? Anxiety, Depression, Trauma and PTSD can affect everyone in different ways. It can affect anyone of any age. If you or someone you know is struggling with anxiety, depression, flashbacks, negative thought, etc... help is only one phone call or email away. Therapy can be hard, but worth it. Every session should leave you feeling more hopeful, inspired and empowered. Let's walk together through your healing journey. I can provide you the knowledge and skills you need to get your life back on track.
(810) 766-6365 View (810) 766-6365
Photo of Emily Wezner-Stepaniak - The Therapy Collective of Michigan, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Therapy Collective of Michigan
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195
Here at TCM, we prioritize the mind + body connection, as mental health IS physical health.  We are a statewide mental health practice that serves clients all over Michigan. With locations in both Wayne and Ottawa counties, you can visit us in person in Wyandotte and Jenison. Our clinicians also provide virtual therapy services, so no matter where in the Mitten State you're located, we can help!
Here at TCM, we prioritize the mind + body connection, as mental health IS physical health.  We are a statewide mental health practice that serves clients all over Michigan. With locations in both Wayne and Ottawa counties, you can visit us in person in Wyandotte and Jenison. Our clinicians also provide virtual therapy services, so no matter where in the Mitten State you're located, we can help!
(734) 361-2808 View (734) 361-2808
Photo of Suzy Peper, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Suzy Peper
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Southgate, MI 48195
Not accepting new clients
Mending hearts. Building hope. This is my focus when working with individuals. Life has so many unexpected twists and turns that we are often left feeling unsteady, uncertain and lost. To get back on track, I will walk along side you on your journey and provide a listening ear, support, encouragement and strategies to help you establish your new solid footing. Whether it's dealing with depression or anxiety, grief or loss, divorce or an empty nest, or career transitions, help is available so you don't have to walk alone.
Mending hearts. Building hope. This is my focus when working with individuals. Life has so many unexpected twists and turns that we are often left feeling unsteady, uncertain and lost. To get back on track, I will walk along side you on your journey and provide a listening ear, support, encouragement and strategies to help you establish your new solid footing. Whether it's dealing with depression or anxiety, grief or loss, divorce or an empty nest, or career transitions, help is available so you don't have to walk alone.
(313) 483-7932 View (313) 483-7932

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Michelle Edwards, MS , LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Michelle Edwards
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MS , LLP
Verified Verified
Wyandotte, MI 48192  (Online Only)
I am state certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and am trained in EMDR.
My approach is to provide an accepting, compassionate, warm, and empathic environment where we work together to discover and make better, the parts of us and our environment that interfere with daily life. It's my belief that we are all capable of positive change with the focus on the person as a whole. Our growth touches and impacts not only ourselves, but the relationships we are a part of and the environment we live in. I specialize in EMDR and I provide virtual therapy only.
I am state certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy and am trained in EMDR.
My approach is to provide an accepting, compassionate, warm, and empathic environment where we work together to discover and make better, the parts of us and our environment that interfere with daily life. It's my belief that we are all capable of positive change with the focus on the person as a whole. Our growth touches and impacts not only ourselves, but the relationships we are a part of and the environment we live in. I specialize in EMDR and I provide virtual therapy only.
(734) 390-4587 View (734) 390-4587
Photo of Yasmeen Hamdoun, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yasmeen Hamdoun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48128
I am EMDR trained and use EMDR theory to get the core of your mental health symptoms instead of a band-aid approach with short term results.
Do you experience negative thoughts about yourself, frequent worries about the future, or maybe even become so numb that you feel nothing at all? I believe that everyone has some sort of trauma from their past that continues to affect their well-being and relationships with others. I will be curious about what you are showing up to therapy with; because I believe that our symptoms tell a story. They tell us what helped us to survive in a sometimes harsh and unjust world, but maybe no longer serve us. In order words, the things we do that once protected us, are usually the same things that hold us back today.
I am EMDR trained and use EMDR theory to get the core of your mental health symptoms instead of a band-aid approach with short term results.
Do you experience negative thoughts about yourself, frequent worries about the future, or maybe even become so numb that you feel nothing at all? I believe that everyone has some sort of trauma from their past that continues to affect their well-being and relationships with others. I will be curious about what you are showing up to therapy with; because I believe that our symptoms tell a story. They tell us what helped us to survive in a sometimes harsh and unjust world, but maybe no longer serve us. In order words, the things we do that once protected us, are usually the same things that hold us back today.
(313) 484-2847 View (313) 484-2847
Photo of Sarah Noda, MEd, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Noda
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48120  (Online Only)
I am a perinatal mental health-certified EMDR therapist and specialize in women, young adults, and adolescents.
Immediate availability for new clients! You want to heal, but feel lost, pressured, or self-critical? We all need extra help sometimes navigating difficult situations, transitions, trauma, or relationships, and the stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem that can ensue. I can’t wait to empower you to take control of your life and grow into your new path. Each person is unique, so I adapt my therapeutic interventions to your strengths, current needs, and goals using an integrative, culturally-sensitive approach. My practice is virtual, using HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing, to make help more accessible to you.
I am a perinatal mental health-certified EMDR therapist and specialize in women, young adults, and adolescents.
Immediate availability for new clients! You want to heal, but feel lost, pressured, or self-critical? We all need extra help sometimes navigating difficult situations, transitions, trauma, or relationships, and the stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem that can ensue. I can’t wait to empower you to take control of your life and grow into your new path. Each person is unique, so I adapt my therapeutic interventions to your strengths, current needs, and goals using an integrative, culturally-sensitive approach. My practice is virtual, using HIPAA-compliant videoconferencing, to make help more accessible to you.
(734) 436-3513 View (734) 436-3513
Photo of Peggy S McComb - Comfort Zone Counseling LLC, MA, LPMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Comfort Zone Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grosse Ile, MI 48138
Take the courageous step toward healing today! With extensive training in EMDR, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative impact of trauma-focused therapy.
We specialize in trauma recovery through EMDR therapy, helping individuals heal from experiences like childhood abuse and military trauma. Our safe, compassionate environment fosters deep healing without the risk of re-traumatization. With a strong commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, we offer a welcoming space for all. Take the first step toward recovery with our dedicated team, who are here to empower you every step of the way. We have openings for various therapy options, including couples therapy, children's therapy, and trauma-focused EMDR, with a few in-person slots available. Let us be your unwavering support.
Take the courageous step toward healing today! With extensive training in EMDR, I’ve seen firsthand the transformative impact of trauma-focused therapy.
We specialize in trauma recovery through EMDR therapy, helping individuals heal from experiences like childhood abuse and military trauma. Our safe, compassionate environment fosters deep healing without the risk of re-traumatization. With a strong commitment to supporting the LGBTQ+ community, we offer a welcoming space for all. Take the first step toward recovery with our dedicated team, who are here to empower you every step of the way. We have openings for various therapy options, including couples therapy, children's therapy, and trauma-focused EMDR, with a few in-person slots available. Let us be your unwavering support.
(517) 343-1744 View (517) 343-1744
Photo of Ethel Mogilevsky, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ethel Mogilevsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48120
I am an EMDR trained clinician and I have extensive training in sex therapy.
Times are very tough right now, but reaching out for help should not be. By asking for help you are already taking the first step to making your mental health a priority. As a therapist, I provide an inclusive and empathetic space for my clients to begin the healing journey. Opening up to a stranger is scary and I am here to make that first step less frightening. I do not approach therapy as a one-size fits all style. People are unique and their environment and experiences make them who they are.
I am an EMDR trained clinician and I have extensive training in sex therapy.
Times are very tough right now, but reaching out for help should not be. By asking for help you are already taking the first step to making your mental health a priority. As a therapist, I provide an inclusive and empathetic space for my clients to begin the healing journey. Opening up to a stranger is scary and I am here to make that first step less frightening. I do not approach therapy as a one-size fits all style. People are unique and their environment and experiences make them who they are.
(248) 290-6462 View (248) 290-6462
Photo of Nicole D. Sangster-Lucas Dba Lucas Counseling Pllc, LCSW, LMSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole D. Sangster-Lucas Dba Lucas Counseling Pllc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48120  (Online Only)
After acquiring diagnostic clarity, my approach is integrative as I effectively utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and Mindfulness Based Therapy techniques.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with several years of experience treating and motivating children/adolescents, adults, and families to achieve emotional wellness, acquire clarity, while becoming self-sufficient in various treatment settings. This is done by providing a safe and supportive environment with a solid client/ therapist collaboration. This promotes lasting change & ability to endure inevitable stress and change.
After acquiring diagnostic clarity, my approach is integrative as I effectively utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and Mindfulness Based Therapy techniques.
I am a licensed Clinical Social Worker with several years of experience treating and motivating children/adolescents, adults, and families to achieve emotional wellness, acquire clarity, while becoming self-sufficient in various treatment settings. This is done by providing a safe and supportive environment with a solid client/ therapist collaboration. This promotes lasting change & ability to endure inevitable stress and change.
(704) 703-4027 View (704) 703-4027
Photo of Nadine Stark - Connective Counseling, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Connective Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48120
I integrate techniques from Person-Centered Therapy along with EMDR, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness to empower my clients to better cope with stress, anxieties, depression, and emotional or physical pain.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Are you thinking about making positive changes in your life? You've come this far, nice work! Let's take the next steps together. I believe we all have strengths we can use to navigate life's inevitable challenges, whether it's overcoming anxious thoughts, navigating the ups and downs of adolescence and parenting, or improving the quality of your relationships.
I integrate techniques from Person-Centered Therapy along with EMDR, CBT, DBT, and mindfulness to empower my clients to better cope with stress, anxieties, depression, and emotional or physical pain.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! Are you thinking about making positive changes in your life? You've come this far, nice work! Let's take the next steps together. I believe we all have strengths we can use to navigate life's inevitable challenges, whether it's overcoming anxious thoughts, navigating the ups and downs of adolescence and parenting, or improving the quality of your relationships.
(231) 787-1802 View (231) 787-1802
Photo of Shannon Hopson, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Hopson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48124
Through EMDR, I facilitate the processing and resolution of traumatic experiences, providing a pathway towards post-traumatic growth and healing.
My ideal clients are individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, as well as their family members seeking support in coping with their loved ones' issues. They often aspire to alleviate distressing symptoms, improve their interpersonal relationships, and enhance their overall quality of life. Recognizing the interconnected nature of these concerns, my approach is tailored to address the needs of my clients and their families. With compassion and a deep understanding of the complexities of human experience, I guide my clients towards a path of resilience, and meaningful change.
Through EMDR, I facilitate the processing and resolution of traumatic experiences, providing a pathway towards post-traumatic growth and healing.
My ideal clients are individuals facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, and substance use disorders, as well as their family members seeking support in coping with their loved ones' issues. They often aspire to alleviate distressing symptoms, improve their interpersonal relationships, and enhance their overall quality of life. Recognizing the interconnected nature of these concerns, my approach is tailored to address the needs of my clients and their families. With compassion and a deep understanding of the complexities of human experience, I guide my clients towards a path of resilience, and meaningful change.
(734) 472-2945 View (734) 472-2945
Photo of Aliah Azmeh, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aliah Azmeh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Dearborn, MI 48126
I am trained in an effective type of treatment called EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to treat trauma.
Welcome to the road to recovery! Recognizing the need to seek out assistance for your mental health and wellbeing is the first step of the journey. Life can become stressful and overwhelming at times and we often don't know where to turn. Confusion and uncertainty takes over and our sense of worth and value are shaken. The inability to cope with stress can lead to anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and other symptoms that can negatively impact your relationships. Experiencing childhood adversity or trauma at any age can also leave us on unstable ground
I am trained in an effective type of treatment called EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to treat trauma.
Welcome to the road to recovery! Recognizing the need to seek out assistance for your mental health and wellbeing is the first step of the journey. Life can become stressful and overwhelming at times and we often don't know where to turn. Confusion and uncertainty takes over and our sense of worth and value are shaken. The inability to cope with stress can lead to anxiety, depression, panic attacks, and other symptoms that can negatively impact your relationships. Experiencing childhood adversity or trauma at any age can also leave us on unstable ground
(248) 657-7887 View (248) 657-7887
Photo of Lucy M Grippo, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lucy M Grippo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dearborn, MI 48120  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and use this modality to address trauma.
Welcome! I am a clinical social worker who combines a holistic approach with research-supported therapeutic techniques in my clinical therapy practice. I am experienced working with those with anxiety, eating disorders, trauma and other adjustment issues. I have a special interest in supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am enthusiastic about working with you through all of the diverse and personal manifestations of mental healthiness.
I am trained in EMDR and use this modality to address trauma.
Welcome! I am a clinical social worker who combines a holistic approach with research-supported therapeutic techniques in my clinical therapy practice. I am experienced working with those with anxiety, eating disorders, trauma and other adjustment issues. I have a special interest in supporting members of the LGBTQ+ community. I am enthusiastic about working with you through all of the diverse and personal manifestations of mental healthiness.
(734) 600-9819 View (734) 600-9819
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.