EMDR Therapists in Westland, MI

Photo of Katharine P Case - Katharine P Case, LMSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katharine P Case
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Westland, MI 48185
My treatment approaches include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I have over 30 years of experience working with children and families. In addition, I am a certified EMDR therapist working with all ages. My career has focused on supporting children, adolescents, and families from diverse backgrounds with issues related to learning difficulties, attachment disorders, sensory integration disorders, adolescent issues and anxiety. As a result I have a wealth of experience in assessment, Autism, ADHD, crisis management, depression, divorce, family and parenting issues, grief and loss, trauma/PTSD, positive behavior support and modification, problem solving, and stress reduction and management.
My treatment approaches include: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I have over 30 years of experience working with children and families. In addition, I am a certified EMDR therapist working with all ages. My career has focused on supporting children, adolescents, and families from diverse backgrounds with issues related to learning difficulties, attachment disorders, sensory integration disorders, adolescent issues and anxiety. As a result I have a wealth of experience in assessment, Autism, ADHD, crisis management, depression, divorce, family and parenting issues, grief and loss, trauma/PTSD, positive behavior support and modification, problem solving, and stress reduction and management.
(734) 345-1068 View (734) 345-1068
Photo of DaShawn L Wallace - DaShawn Wallace Counseling, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
DaShawn Wallace Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Westland, MI 48185
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Nationally Board-Certified Counselor (NBCC), through Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and other techniques, Every aspect of treatment includes prioritizing safety, trustworthiness, transparency, collaboration, and cultural sensitivity.
I am dedicated to therapeutic support for adolescents, college students, individuals, couples, families, and groups. With a focus on issues related to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, and significant life changes, I challenge clients to explore their emotions, examine past and current issues, and identify goals. By fostering social, emotional, and behavioral competencies, I equip clients with new skills to regulate their emotions and create resilience in a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel a sense of belonging and acceptance.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Nationally Board-Certified Counselor (NBCC), through Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and other techniques, Every aspect of treatment includes prioritizing safety, trustworthiness, transparency, collaboration, and cultural sensitivity.
I am dedicated to therapeutic support for adolescents, college students, individuals, couples, families, and groups. With a focus on issues related to trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, anger management, and significant life changes, I challenge clients to explore their emotions, examine past and current issues, and identify goals. By fostering social, emotional, and behavioral competencies, I equip clients with new skills to regulate their emotions and create resilience in a safe, nurturing environment where clients feel a sense of belonging and acceptance.
(248) 916-0079 View (248) 916-0079
Photo of LaShun Franklin, MA, LLP, TLC, Limited Licensed Psychologist
LaShun Franklin
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, TLC
Verified Verified
Westland, MI 48185
Waitlist for new clients
Servicing clients who are in need of mental health support in various aspects of their journey. I assist individuals and families in attaining a level of health and healing that provides them with a sense of satisfaction in their lives.
Servicing clients who are in need of mental health support in various aspects of their journey. I assist individuals and families in attaining a level of health and healing that provides them with a sense of satisfaction in their lives.
(734) 521-4857 View (734) 521-4857
Photo of Kyle Hill - Thrive Abundance, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thrive Abundance
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Westland, MI 48186  (Online Only)
Welcome to Thrive Abundance, where we offer online therapy for kids, teens, young adults, middle-aged adults, and aging adults. Led by Kyle Hill, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience in social work, homelessness support, probation, parole, corrections, and community outreach, our practice provides personalized individual and group sessions. Using evidence-based modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy, we address anxiety, depression, stress, behavioral problems, trauma, and life transitions. Kyle’s deep understanding of his community
Welcome to Thrive Abundance, where we offer online therapy for kids, teens, young adults, middle-aged adults, and aging adults. Led by Kyle Hill, a licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience in social work, homelessness support, probation, parole, corrections, and community outreach, our practice provides personalized individual and group sessions. Using evidence-based modalities like cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, solution-focused therapy, and dialectical behavior therapy, we address anxiety, depression, stress, behavioral problems, trauma, and life transitions. Kyle’s deep understanding of his community
(248) 665-8601 View (248) 665-8601
Photo of Michael Rosewood, LMSW-C, ACTRP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Rosewood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, ACTRP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westland, MI 48186  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In my practice, I adopt an approach that puts your intrinsic strengths front and center, focusing on you as a unique individual. I take into account your overall well-being and draw from a specialized understanding of chronic, toxic stress, and complex trauma. My commitment is to establish an environment that fully embraces your needs, concerns, and aspirations. I strongly believe in the transformative power of recognizing and magnifying your inner strengths. Through a person-centered approach, my sole focus is on you – your experiences, your emotions, and your unique journey.
In my practice, I adopt an approach that puts your intrinsic strengths front and center, focusing on you as a unique individual. I take into account your overall well-being and draw from a specialized understanding of chronic, toxic stress, and complex trauma. My commitment is to establish an environment that fully embraces your needs, concerns, and aspirations. I strongly believe in the transformative power of recognizing and magnifying your inner strengths. Through a person-centered approach, my sole focus is on you – your experiences, your emotions, and your unique journey.
(313) 923-3791 View (313) 923-3791
Photo of Leslie R Johnsen - Heron Ridge Associates, MA, LLP, Limited Licensed Psychologist
Heron Ridge Associates
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP
Verified Verified
Westland, MI 48185
Heron Ridge Associates has been helping those struggling for close to 2 decades. We have over 50 therapists and multiple psychiatrists ready to help you in 4 convenient locations. You will feel comfortable sharing your life in our beautiful, private offices with exceptional trained, seasoned professionals specializing in a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition to individual and family services, we are a full service psychological center including psychological evaluations, group therapy opportunities, and an intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance abuse.
Heron Ridge Associates has been helping those struggling for close to 2 decades. We have over 50 therapists and multiple psychiatrists ready to help you in 4 convenient locations. You will feel comfortable sharing your life in our beautiful, private offices with exceptional trained, seasoned professionals specializing in a variety of mental health and substance use issues. In addition to individual and family services, we are a full service psychological center including psychological evaluations, group therapy opportunities, and an intensive outpatient program for those struggling with substance abuse.
(734) 838-4803 View (734) 838-4803
Photo of Monica Crawford - Kokoro Counseling and Wellness Center, PLLC, MS, LPC, NCC, MITS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kokoro Counseling and Wellness Center, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, MITS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westland, MI 48186  (Online Only)
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I help individuals achieve success in recognizing how their traumatic experiences, mental health symptoms, or personal relationship issues can affect their mental wellbeing. I work with individuals ages 12 and up who are experiencing or have experienced trauma, struggling with peer or parental relationships, low self-esteem, etc. Furthermore, I assist families who have a current Child Protective Services case that could potentially lead to removal of children by offering parenting, anger management, communication and conflict resolutions skills in order to rebuild the family structure.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS. I help individuals achieve success in recognizing how their traumatic experiences, mental health symptoms, or personal relationship issues can affect their mental wellbeing. I work with individuals ages 12 and up who are experiencing or have experienced trauma, struggling with peer or parental relationships, low self-esteem, etc. Furthermore, I assist families who have a current Child Protective Services case that could potentially lead to removal of children by offering parenting, anger management, communication and conflict resolutions skills in order to rebuild the family structure.
(313) 397-0280 View (313) 397-0280
Photo of Justin Travis Gillespie - Superior Center For ADHD, LMSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Superior Center For ADHD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C
Verified Verified
Westland, MI 48185
Do you or your child struggle with organization, gathering your thoughts, and overall slowing things down a bit? Have you or your child been told that you have "so much potential" and yet you cannot seem to keep your focus in check to tap into it? Now more than ever, people with ADHD are feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated by how to take charge of their households, relationships, schooling, and careers.
Do you or your child struggle with organization, gathering your thoughts, and overall slowing things down a bit? Have you or your child been told that you have "so much potential" and yet you cannot seem to keep your focus in check to tap into it? Now more than ever, people with ADHD are feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated by how to take charge of their households, relationships, schooling, and careers.
View
Photo of Wanda Y Massey, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wanda Y Massey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westland, MI 48185
With a multifaceted background as both a middle school teacher and a school social worker, I bring a wealth of experience in supporting individuals through various life transitions and challenges. My journey from education to social work has been shaped by a passion for empowering individuals to navigate life's complexities with resilience and compassion. Additionally, my experience in yoga and mindfulness has further enriched my understanding of the mind-body connection and the profound impact of holistic wellness on mental health. Give us a call today!
With a multifaceted background as both a middle school teacher and a school social worker, I bring a wealth of experience in supporting individuals through various life transitions and challenges. My journey from education to social work has been shaped by a passion for empowering individuals to navigate life's complexities with resilience and compassion. Additionally, my experience in yoga and mindfulness has further enriched my understanding of the mind-body connection and the profound impact of holistic wellness on mental health. Give us a call today!
(313) 474-6104 View (313) 474-6104
Photo of Karen Gibson, MA,  LPC, LBSW, Counselor
Karen Gibson
Counselor, MA, LPC, LBSW
Verified Verified
Westland, MI 48185  (Online Only)
Your friends, family & coworkers are impressed with your ability to manage your life. You present as confident in all areas of your life. You’re self-motivated, dependable & the most trusted. But on the inside, you're constantly thinking of your shortcomings and never feel good enough or deserving. You've spent most of your life trying to uphold this "great life" as others view it, as well as putting everyone else's needs before your own. You've finally become exhausted & struggle to face challenges in your own life. You want to enjoy life & relax. But don't know where to start. It's time to live your best life!
Your friends, family & coworkers are impressed with your ability to manage your life. You present as confident in all areas of your life. You’re self-motivated, dependable & the most trusted. But on the inside, you're constantly thinking of your shortcomings and never feel good enough or deserving. You've spent most of your life trying to uphold this "great life" as others view it, as well as putting everyone else's needs before your own. You've finally become exhausted & struggle to face challenges in your own life. You want to enjoy life & relax. But don't know where to start. It's time to live your best life!
(586) 554-2027 View (586) 554-2027
Photo of Jamie Mcnally - Sycamore Counseling Services (& LLPC Supervision), MA, LLP, LPC, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sycamore Counseling Services (& LLPC Supervision)
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LLP, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
Westland, MI 48185
Life is hard. It is also beautiful. At Sycamore, our sole purpose is to help our clients discover the freedom and joy that comes from living a more abundant life. Sycamore Counseling Services exists because every single day there are those of us who need hope...healing...happiness. We believe that people deserve to be truly seen, that we are all capable of greater things than we could ever imagine, and that every human being is valuable, We believe that pain may never be forgotten, but it can be transformed. We believe that it is possible for YOUR life to be more defined by its beauty than its pain.
Life is hard. It is also beautiful. At Sycamore, our sole purpose is to help our clients discover the freedom and joy that comes from living a more abundant life. Sycamore Counseling Services exists because every single day there are those of us who need hope...healing...happiness. We believe that people deserve to be truly seen, that we are all capable of greater things than we could ever imagine, and that every human being is valuable, We believe that pain may never be forgotten, but it can be transformed. We believe that it is possible for YOUR life to be more defined by its beauty than its pain.
(734) 336-1366 View (734) 336-1366
Photo of Justin Gillespie - Superior Center For ADHD, LMSW-C, ADHD-, CCSP, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Superior Center For ADHD
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW-C, ADHD-, CCSP, CGP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Westland, MI 48185
Do you or your child struggle with organization, gathering your thoughts, and overall slowing things down a bit? Have you or your child been told that you have "so much potential" and yet you cannot seem to keep your focus in check to tap into it? Now more than ever, people with ADHD are feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated by how to take charge of their households, relationships, schooling, and careers.
Do you or your child struggle with organization, gathering your thoughts, and overall slowing things down a bit? Have you or your child been told that you have "so much potential" and yet you cannot seem to keep your focus in check to tap into it? Now more than ever, people with ADHD are feeling overwhelmed and overstimulated by how to take charge of their households, relationships, schooling, and careers.
(734) 203-7927 View (734) 203-7927
Photo of Emily Engler, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Engler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Westland, MI 48186
Not accepting new clients
Finding a therapist that is the right fit for you can be daunting. I provide a non-judgmental space for you to be who you are and safely process your hardships. Life can be messy, embarrassing, hurtful and lonely. I'm here to work through it with you. I encourage all of the people I work with to understand that if nothing changes, nothing changes.
Finding a therapist that is the right fit for you can be daunting. I provide a non-judgmental space for you to be who you are and safely process your hardships. Life can be messy, embarrassing, hurtful and lonely. I'm here to work through it with you. I encourage all of the people I work with to understand that if nothing changes, nothing changes.
(734) 396-4537 View (734) 396-4537

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Allison Stewart, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Stewart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48154  (Online Only)
I take a holistic, body-centered approach to support your healing by using EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and processing emotions and past trauma.
You're calm on the outside, but inside is a rollercoaster of anxiety and stress. Overthinking and worrying runs your life and feeling relaxed seems impossible. No matter what you do, you feel overwhelmed with emotion or you numb out and feel nothing. You've been called "too sensitive", your self esteem is low, or feel like you're too much for people in your life. Maybe something happened in your past that still affects you and you wish you could get over it. Trauma and emotions feel trapped inside and you feel like you're in survival mode 24/7. You're tired of feeling this way and you're ready for a shift in how you experience life.
I take a holistic, body-centered approach to support your healing by using EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and processing emotions and past trauma.
You're calm on the outside, but inside is a rollercoaster of anxiety and stress. Overthinking and worrying runs your life and feeling relaxed seems impossible. No matter what you do, you feel overwhelmed with emotion or you numb out and feel nothing. You've been called "too sensitive", your self esteem is low, or feel like you're too much for people in your life. Maybe something happened in your past that still affects you and you wish you could get over it. Trauma and emotions feel trapped inside and you feel like you're in survival mode 24/7. You're tired of feeling this way and you're ready for a shift in how you experience life.
View
Photo of Shannon Hopson, LLMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Hopson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
3 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 Pamala Topp, MA,  LPC, CCTP-II, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamala Topp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Livonia, MI 48150
I primarily utilize CBT, DBT-informed, EMDR, Play Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy.
My aim is to work with clients who struggle with feeling disconnected from themselves, others, and are anxious, overwhelmed, uncertain about how they are supposed to manage all the aspects of their lives. When we push our needs aside to without taking time for yourself, this can lead to frustration, resentment, anxiety, depression and stress. I work with you to be able to resolve the barriers that are keeping you from living a full and meaningful life.
I primarily utilize CBT, DBT-informed, EMDR, Play Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy.
My aim is to work with clients who struggle with feeling disconnected from themselves, others, and are anxious, overwhelmed, uncertain about how they are supposed to manage all the aspects of their lives. When we push our needs aside to without taking time for yourself, this can lead to frustration, resentment, anxiety, depression and stress. I work with you to be able to resolve the barriers that are keeping you from living a full and meaningful life.
(605) 741-4375 View (605) 741-4375
Photo of Ruqaiyah Rogers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ruqaiyah Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Taylor, MI 48180
Many times, I will use brain, body and trauma-based therapies such as Brainspotting, EMDR as well as more talk-based therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
My name is Ruqaiyah Rogers and I'm a licensed clinical social worker, LMSW-C, based in Michigan. I provide individual counseling/therapy services statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in coaching strategies for better managing ADHD and executive functioning symptoms, anxiety, borderline personality, mother-daughter/parent-adult child attachment, and codependency using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting, to help my clients get clearer about who they are and start making positive and necessary changes to create the type of life they want and deserve to live.
Many times, I will use brain, body and trauma-based therapies such as Brainspotting, EMDR as well as more talk-based therapy approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
My name is Ruqaiyah Rogers and I'm a licensed clinical social worker, LMSW-C, based in Michigan. I provide individual counseling/therapy services statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and specialize in coaching strategies for better managing ADHD and executive functioning symptoms, anxiety, borderline personality, mother-daughter/parent-adult child attachment, and codependency using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting, to help my clients get clearer about who they are and start making positive and necessary changes to create the type of life they want and deserve to live.
(734) 212-8965 View (734) 212-8965
Photo of Holly Sanders-Cobb, LMSW, CTRP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holly Sanders-Cobb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CTRP
Verified Verified
Plymouth, MI 48170
Waitlist for new clients
Trauma informed therapy, EMDR and psychedelic integration can help you break through the emotional blocks that are keeping you from living an adaptive healthy life.
My mission is to help my clients build a fulfilling and joyful life by overcoming their shame, smallness, and fear. Like you, my clients struggled with depression and anxiety despite being hardworking, capable, and appear to have it all together. Life is hard. Sometimes the strongest among us, need a little help. You may have tried therapy before, but need to go deeper in your healing. You may fear this pattern is what life is supposed to be. It doesn't have to be. I provide a holistic and integrative approach to healing helping you overcome your challenges and live the life you want to live.
Trauma informed therapy, EMDR and psychedelic integration can help you break through the emotional blocks that are keeping you from living an adaptive healthy life.
My mission is to help my clients build a fulfilling and joyful life by overcoming their shame, smallness, and fear. Like you, my clients struggled with depression and anxiety despite being hardworking, capable, and appear to have it all together. Life is hard. Sometimes the strongest among us, need a little help. You may have tried therapy before, but need to go deeper in your healing. You may fear this pattern is what life is supposed to be. It doesn't have to be. I provide a holistic and integrative approach to healing helping you overcome your challenges and live the life you want to live.
(734) 259-7085 View (734) 259-7085
Photo of Donna Judge, LPC, Counselor
Donna Judge
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, MI 48170
I am trained in many treatment approaches, including motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, EMDR, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Hello and welcome! Congratulations for taking this step towards making a positive change in your life. I am here to help, and to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to allow you to process whatever hurdles, feelings, or thoughts you are experiencing. As a person-centered therapist, I see a trusting relationship as paramount to effectuate any sort of change. I am ready to listen to your concerns, guide you towards accomplishing your goals, and help you see and build upon your strengths.
I am trained in many treatment approaches, including motivational interviewing, solution-focused therapy, EMDR, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Hello and welcome! Congratulations for taking this step towards making a positive change in your life. I am here to help, and to provide a safe, nonjudgmental space to allow you to process whatever hurdles, feelings, or thoughts you are experiencing. As a person-centered therapist, I see a trusting relationship as paramount to effectuate any sort of change. I am ready to listen to your concerns, guide you towards accomplishing your goals, and help you see and build upon your strengths.
(248) 247-7787 View (248) 247-7787
Photo of Daina McAdams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daina McAdams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Detroit, MI 48228  (Online Only)
I'm Daina McAdams, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Michigan. I specialize in supporting adults who are navigating challenges related to trauma and abuse, anxiety, and depression. My passion is to help you achieve your personal and mental health goals through compassionate and evidence-based counseling. I strive to create a warm, supportive, and collaborative environment where you feel safe to explore your challenges. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a powerful technique for processing traumatic memories and reducing distress.
I'm Daina McAdams, a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Michigan. I specialize in supporting adults who are navigating challenges related to trauma and abuse, anxiety, and depression. My passion is to help you achieve your personal and mental health goals through compassionate and evidence-based counseling. I strive to create a warm, supportive, and collaborative environment where you feel safe to explore your challenges. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a powerful technique for processing traumatic memories and reducing distress.
(313) 825-4204 View (313) 825-4204
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.