EMDR Therapists in Kansas City, MO

Photo of Amanda Martinez - AM Behavioral Health, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
AM Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64131
Many people experience trauma or other hardships that interfere with their life. Depression and anxiety can make it difficult to function. Extreme emotions can be overwhelming and distracting. I incorporate multiple science based approaches in therapy to make sure that individuals both have the skills to function, and can live their life to their full potential. I am experienced in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which is an excellent tool for dealing with unresolved trauma. I will work with you to find the the best tools that will encourage healing and foster growth.
Many people experience trauma or other hardships that interfere with their life. Depression and anxiety can make it difficult to function. Extreme emotions can be overwhelming and distracting. I incorporate multiple science based approaches in therapy to make sure that individuals both have the skills to function, and can live their life to their full potential. I am experienced in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which is an excellent tool for dealing with unresolved trauma. I will work with you to find the the best tools that will encourage healing and foster growth.
(816) 312-5149 View (816) 312-5149
Photo of Catie Tweedie, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Catie Tweedie
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64108
I have specified training in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and the Gottman Couples Therapy approach.
Thank you for being here. I work with individuals 13+ to address Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Depression, OCD, Relational Issues, Suicidality, LGBTQIA+, and people experiencing grief and loss. I believe that self-compassion is the foundation for personal growth. As your therapist, my role is not to give you advice. You know yourself best. My role is to provide a partnering hand to move through life's challenges with you.
I have specified training in EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and the Gottman Couples Therapy approach.
Thank you for being here. I work with individuals 13+ to address Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Depression, OCD, Relational Issues, Suicidality, LGBTQIA+, and people experiencing grief and loss. I believe that self-compassion is the foundation for personal growth. As your therapist, my role is not to give you advice. You know yourself best. My role is to provide a partnering hand to move through life's challenges with you.
(816) 439-8049 View (816) 439-8049
Photo of Melissa Mazur, LCPC, LPC,  AS, CATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Mazur
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, LPC, AS, CATP
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64131
I am also trained in EMDR and clinically licensed in Kansas and Missouri.
Everyone's response to trauma is different. With years of experience working with survivors of abuse and neglect, my approach is personalized to align with your therapeutic goals. Working together, my purpose is to offer a safe and trusting environment to establish a variety of tools to enhance empowerment, self-awareness, reduce symptoms of emotional disturbances, and stress management skills.
I am also trained in EMDR and clinically licensed in Kansas and Missouri.
Everyone's response to trauma is different. With years of experience working with survivors of abuse and neglect, my approach is personalized to align with your therapeutic goals. Working together, my purpose is to offer a safe and trusting environment to establish a variety of tools to enhance empowerment, self-awareness, reduce symptoms of emotional disturbances, and stress management skills.
(816) 323-8009 View (816) 323-8009
Photo of Kindra Jackel - Kindra Jackel, LPC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kindra Jackel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
I also use EMDR and IFS (Internal Family Systems) to help individuals move past trauma and overcome negative beliefs that are keeping them stuck.
One of my joys in life is witnessing growth and change. And being part of another's journey is an honor and privilege. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, and difficulty managing emotions. In addition, I enjoy helping clients with career and phase of life issues.
I also use EMDR and IFS (Internal Family Systems) to help individuals move past trauma and overcome negative beliefs that are keeping them stuck.
One of my joys in life is witnessing growth and change. And being part of another's journey is an honor and privilege. I work with adults and adolescents who struggle with anxiety, grief, depression, and difficulty managing emotions. In addition, I enjoy helping clients with career and phase of life issues.
(816) 425-2342 View (816) 425-2342
Photo of Elizabeth Laughlin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Laughlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
As we set sail on the journey of life, you may encounter some confusing and traumatic moments. Throughout the journey, you may experience calm and smooth sailing or you may come across harsh and fierce storms. I am here to guide you through the "storm" with family systemic therapy, a symbolic-experiential approach, and EMDR therapy. Throughout our therapy journey, we will build a therapeutic relationship based on authenticity, trust, and humor, when appropriate. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, boundaries, relationship dynamics, or grief, I am here to sail with you through your journey.
As we set sail on the journey of life, you may encounter some confusing and traumatic moments. Throughout the journey, you may experience calm and smooth sailing or you may come across harsh and fierce storms. I am here to guide you through the "storm" with family systemic therapy, a symbolic-experiential approach, and EMDR therapy. Throughout our therapy journey, we will build a therapeutic relationship based on authenticity, trust, and humor, when appropriate. Whether you are looking for support with anxiety, depression, boundaries, relationship dynamics, or grief, I am here to sail with you through your journey.
(816) 239-2263 x100 View (816) 239-2263 x100
Photo of Kaitlyn Ekart-Eliot, MS, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Ekart-Eliot
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
Have you ever walked into a professional's office and felt like you had no say in your treatment? Have you ever felt that you had to educate your doctors or therapists on Queer issues? It's daunting and invalidating. I aim to create a safe environment where you are in charge of your treatment. As a therapist, I am here to help you navigate the treatment process with your goals at heart. Using person-centered therapy, EMDR, and art therapy, I hope to challenge you from a non-judgmental, trauma-informed framework to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD.
Have you ever walked into a professional's office and felt like you had no say in your treatment? Have you ever felt that you had to educate your doctors or therapists on Queer issues? It's daunting and invalidating. I aim to create a safe environment where you are in charge of your treatment. As a therapist, I am here to help you navigate the treatment process with your goals at heart. Using person-centered therapy, EMDR, and art therapy, I hope to challenge you from a non-judgmental, trauma-informed framework to manage anxiety, depression, trauma, and PTSD.
(816) 355-5340 View (816) 355-5340
Photo of Nathan Staley, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathan Staley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
My specialty is honestly just being a person there with you, but as a Certified EMDR Therapist, we can use this approach to help your brain release the overwhelm of disturbing feelings and memories, empowering it to heal, and adpt to your dignity in the present moment.
Unconditional personal acceptance, honesty, and if it's a good fit: trust. This is the where therapy has power. And in a society increasingly isolated and detached, we are tragically under-resourced in our suffering. If you've found yourself ready to try and paint a different picture, I can help. We can be open minded with what that looks like, sometimes it resembles examining your thoughts, sometimes connecting with and learning from your emotions. Sometimes we need a safe, human connection to hear and to heal the burdens of our past and present. My first task is to learn what it is you need; it's ok if that's yours too.
My specialty is honestly just being a person there with you, but as a Certified EMDR Therapist, we can use this approach to help your brain release the overwhelm of disturbing feelings and memories, empowering it to heal, and adpt to your dignity in the present moment.
Unconditional personal acceptance, honesty, and if it's a good fit: trust. This is the where therapy has power. And in a society increasingly isolated and detached, we are tragically under-resourced in our suffering. If you've found yourself ready to try and paint a different picture, I can help. We can be open minded with what that looks like, sometimes it resembles examining your thoughts, sometimes connecting with and learning from your emotions. Sometimes we need a safe, human connection to hear and to heal the burdens of our past and present. My first task is to learn what it is you need; it's ok if that's yours too.
(816) 298-8599 View (816) 298-8599
Photo of Dallas Gipson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dallas Gipson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
I have been certified in EMDR since 2020, specializing in trauma and attachment work.
When I began my Clinical Psychology degree, I was all about the research, the brain science and the data behind the practice. I still nerd out over the "brain stuff," but in my years of practice, I have come to appreciate the more human side, the things that we just can't measure. I believe that one of the most important aspects of the work is helping people navigate the pain and uncertainty of being a human, the longing to fit in, to feel safe, understood and to love and be loved. Unpacking our trauma and shame can be a lifelong project and I am honored to join my clients on their journey.
I have been certified in EMDR since 2020, specializing in trauma and attachment work.
When I began my Clinical Psychology degree, I was all about the research, the brain science and the data behind the practice. I still nerd out over the "brain stuff," but in my years of practice, I have come to appreciate the more human side, the things that we just can't measure. I believe that one of the most important aspects of the work is helping people navigate the pain and uncertainty of being a human, the longing to fit in, to feel safe, understood and to love and be loved. Unpacking our trauma and shame can be a lifelong project and I am honored to join my clients on their journey.
(816) 227-6035 View (816) 227-6035
Photo of Kelli Mckinney, MA, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelli Mckinney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64112  (Online Only)
I am a board- certified counselor trained in EMDR, as well as Perinatal mental health certified through PSI with an emphasis on NICU families and traumatic births.
I am currently only offering telehealth . Life can be easier said than done! If you're reading this, you've already made the first courageous step to seek help. My overarching goal is to provide safety along the journey of healing and ultimately to you experiencing a fuller, more joyful life. Choosing to share your story can be difficult, but rewriting that story can alter the way you live, lead, and love. I've personally been in the trenches, and it's my passion to walk through the pain and beauty of life with others.
I am a board- certified counselor trained in EMDR, as well as Perinatal mental health certified through PSI with an emphasis on NICU families and traumatic births.
I am currently only offering telehealth . Life can be easier said than done! If you're reading this, you've already made the first courageous step to seek help. My overarching goal is to provide safety along the journey of healing and ultimately to you experiencing a fuller, more joyful life. Choosing to share your story can be difficult, but rewriting that story can alter the way you live, lead, and love. I've personally been in the trenches, and it's my passion to walk through the pain and beauty of life with others.
(816) 750-2456 View (816) 750-2456
Photo of Megan L Bartlow, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan L Bartlow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64110
I am trained in EMDR and other trauma modalities to provide you with effective tools and resources towards your healing journey.
It can be overwhelmingly scary to know where to begin in your healing journey. Wounds can build upon one another until it all feels like a tangled mess. Childhood and family wounds can dictate the lens in which you see the world. Looking through that lens can be complex and difficult to navigate alone. Whether the symptoms you are experiencing are affecting your current circumstances, creating self-worth issues or relationship difficulties, I love to meet you where you are at, and help you develop goals that lead to a fulfilling life.
I am trained in EMDR and other trauma modalities to provide you with effective tools and resources towards your healing journey.
It can be overwhelmingly scary to know where to begin in your healing journey. Wounds can build upon one another until it all feels like a tangled mess. Childhood and family wounds can dictate the lens in which you see the world. Looking through that lens can be complex and difficult to navigate alone. Whether the symptoms you are experiencing are affecting your current circumstances, creating self-worth issues or relationship difficulties, I love to meet you where you are at, and help you develop goals that lead to a fulfilling life.
(816) 209-1289 View (816) 209-1289
Photo of Bailey Wilkinson Stephens, PLPC
Bailey Wilkinson Stephens
PLPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
Additionally, I have specified training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) for those who have experienced trauma.
Welcome! I appreciate you being here. I specialize in treating Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Depression, Relational Issues, and grief and loss. I am passionate about working with adolescents (ages 13 and up) and adults as they navigate life's complexities. My approach is collaborative and holistic, designed to foster change and promote healing.
Additionally, I have specified training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) for those who have experienced trauma.
Welcome! I appreciate you being here. I specialize in treating Anxiety Disorders, PTSD, Depression, Relational Issues, and grief and loss. I am passionate about working with adolescents (ages 13 and up) and adults as they navigate life's complexities. My approach is collaborative and holistic, designed to foster change and promote healing.
(816) 608-6551 View (816) 608-6551
Photo of Sohna Shook, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sohna Shook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64127  (Online Only)
My training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Therapy.
Everyone has something to work through. My goal is to help those who experience Racial Trauma, General Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma, and Abuse find their strength and hope.
My training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Therapy.
Everyone has something to work through. My goal is to help those who experience Racial Trauma, General Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma, and Abuse find their strength and hope.
(816) 578-0212 View (816) 578-0212
Photo of Jeffrey E Holt, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffrey E Holt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64111
Jeff has been providing therapy for boys and men since 1999. He is licensed in Missouri, Kansas, Texas and Alaska and specializes in men’s issues, working with males age 12 and up including teenagers, young adults, active duty military and veterans. His approach is person-centered and combines CBT, CPT, EMDR, ERP, Mindfulness, and other techniques designed to enhance empowerment and a sense of self-worth. His areas of treatment expertise include PTSD, post-combat trauma, OCD, depression, anger and anxiety.
Jeff has been providing therapy for boys and men since 1999. He is licensed in Missouri, Kansas, Texas and Alaska and specializes in men’s issues, working with males age 12 and up including teenagers, young adults, active duty military and veterans. His approach is person-centered and combines CBT, CPT, EMDR, ERP, Mindfulness, and other techniques designed to enhance empowerment and a sense of self-worth. His areas of treatment expertise include PTSD, post-combat trauma, OCD, depression, anger and anxiety.
(816) 521-6948 View (816) 521-6948
Photo of Danielle Andrea Jones, LCSW, LSCSW, CGCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Andrea Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW, CGCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
I'm EMDR trained & have several years of experience using this technique to successfully resolve trauma.
I really enjoy guiding you toward achieving your goals for what matters to you in life! Becoming unstuck from the past can be needed to unlock greater fulfillment in life. Traumas, depression, anxiety, anger, low-self-esteem, or psychosis are some of the common challenges that get in the way of life satisfaction. With barriers greatly reduced or removed, you are freed to live life as YOU choose. I often give worksheets & between session suggestions (homework) to expedite your progress. To contact me please EMAIL so I can quickly find & see your message (with many SPAM business calls VM is harder to notice & you are important)!
I'm EMDR trained & have several years of experience using this technique to successfully resolve trauma.
I really enjoy guiding you toward achieving your goals for what matters to you in life! Becoming unstuck from the past can be needed to unlock greater fulfillment in life. Traumas, depression, anxiety, anger, low-self-esteem, or psychosis are some of the common challenges that get in the way of life satisfaction. With barriers greatly reduced or removed, you are freed to live life as YOU choose. I often give worksheets & between session suggestions (homework) to expedite your progress. To contact me please EMAIL so I can quickly find & see your message (with many SPAM business calls VM is harder to notice & you are important)!
(913) 347-4851 View (913) 347-4851
Photo of Rebecca Sue Baxter - KC Counseling Studio, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
KC Counseling Studio
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64106
I hold several certifications and years of experience in Pilates, Yoga, and EMDR.
My therapeutic style is ideal for clients looking to reconnect with themselves on all levels. Clients should come curious about identifying emotional and psychological blocks, as well as where trauma, tension, anxiety, or depression is stored in the physical body. I specialize in treating people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, illness, death, sexual assault survivors, and bi-polar. I frequently work with women who are trying to stabilize their body and mind after childbirth, trauma, or menapause. All are welcome.
I hold several certifications and years of experience in Pilates, Yoga, and EMDR.
My therapeutic style is ideal for clients looking to reconnect with themselves on all levels. Clients should come curious about identifying emotional and psychological blocks, as well as where trauma, tension, anxiety, or depression is stored in the physical body. I specialize in treating people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, illness, death, sexual assault survivors, and bi-polar. I frequently work with women who are trying to stabilize their body and mind after childbirth, trauma, or menapause. All are welcome.
(816) 623-1011 View (816) 623-1011
Photo of Stacey Dawn Davis, MS, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey Dawn Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64131
I have completed EMDR Training, parts 1 AND 2 as well as training with the Grief Recovery Method.
In my practice, I work with adults and teens who are experiencing or have experienced trauma (PTSD) or unresolved grief in their lives. Trauma can affect relationships, friendships, marriages and parenting. It can significantly impact how we cope from day to day. Unfortunately, such issues that have been ignored may keep coming up and can haunt us at the most inopportune times. I am continually amazed at how resilient the human mind and spirit can be with just some intentional focus on those areas of life.
I have completed EMDR Training, parts 1 AND 2 as well as training with the Grief Recovery Method.
In my practice, I work with adults and teens who are experiencing or have experienced trauma (PTSD) or unresolved grief in their lives. Trauma can affect relationships, friendships, marriages and parenting. It can significantly impact how we cope from day to day. Unfortunately, such issues that have been ignored may keep coming up and can haunt us at the most inopportune times. I am continually amazed at how resilient the human mind and spirit can be with just some intentional focus on those areas of life.
(816) 296-9832 View (816) 296-9832
Photo of Cassie Babalola, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassie Babalola
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64131
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, trained in EMDR.
I want you to know what it’s like to live a life of healing. If you feel like you are drowning, overwhelmed, exhausted, or resentful - I can help. Together we will roll up our sleeves and get to work. It will get a little messy, but I’m not scared of the mess. I will support you while you learn to love the things you have previously hidden. Your pain, your thoughts, and your behaviors can all make sense when we explore them with kind curiosity. Whether you experience self-loathing or the impact of narcissistic abuse, I am equipped to help you navigate healing and moving forward from a place of freedom.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, trained in EMDR.
I want you to know what it’s like to live a life of healing. If you feel like you are drowning, overwhelmed, exhausted, or resentful - I can help. Together we will roll up our sleeves and get to work. It will get a little messy, but I’m not scared of the mess. I will support you while you learn to love the things you have previously hidden. Your pain, your thoughts, and your behaviors can all make sense when we explore them with kind curiosity. Whether you experience self-loathing or the impact of narcissistic abuse, I am equipped to help you navigate healing and moving forward from a place of freedom.
(816) 227-6661 View (816) 227-6661
Photo of Diane Kathleen Morgan, LCSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diane Kathleen Morgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64116  (Online Only)
I use my experience to creatively utilize EMDR, Cognitive Processing, as well as other needed methods to individualize your treatment.
Welcome. You may be noticing changes or experiences that feel hard, or harder than before. This might be affecting you in different ways - with your happiness, with relationships, with work. You may notice some emotions and thoughts about others, about yourself, about your ability to do things, that cause you to feel stuck, down, anxious, angry, in pain, overwhelmed. You may be in transition in any number of ways and need someone to help you sort it all out.
I use my experience to creatively utilize EMDR, Cognitive Processing, as well as other needed methods to individualize your treatment.
Welcome. You may be noticing changes or experiences that feel hard, or harder than before. This might be affecting you in different ways - with your happiness, with relationships, with work. You may notice some emotions and thoughts about others, about yourself, about your ability to do things, that cause you to feel stuck, down, anxious, angry, in pain, overwhelmed. You may be in transition in any number of ways and need someone to help you sort it all out.
(816) 203-3943 View (816) 203-3943
Photo of James Parker, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Parker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64108
I use a blended approach to counseling, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness based practices and EMDR.
You’re searching for something, or someone to connect with, right? That’s why you’re here. Finding a therapist can be a very difficult task, especially if you are not feeling your best. You have found the courage to take the first and second steps, which is saying “I need some help and I need to find a therapist.” You are the expert on you, so you know the choices you have made and the consequences, good and bad, that come along with them. Fixating and ruminating on those choices and consequences can lead you to use unhealthy coping mechanisms, leading to you feeling trapped by old habits.
I use a blended approach to counseling, utilizing Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness based practices and EMDR.
You’re searching for something, or someone to connect with, right? That’s why you’re here. Finding a therapist can be a very difficult task, especially if you are not feeling your best. You have found the courage to take the first and second steps, which is saying “I need some help and I need to find a therapist.” You are the expert on you, so you know the choices you have made and the consequences, good and bad, that come along with them. Fixating and ruminating on those choices and consequences can lead you to use unhealthy coping mechanisms, leading to you feeling trapped by old habits.
(816) 323-5069 View (816) 323-5069
Photo of Tim Mathia, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tim Mathia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64152
Bringing compassion, challenge and hope, I focus on Bowen Family Systems Theory and EMDR for trauma.
Tim Mathia, a mental health professional with 33 years of experience, guides individuals and families towards purpose. Recognizing the courage in seeking help, I support your path to holistic wellness. Change is within reach, and I facilitate a reduction in anxiety and stress, and promote harmonious relationships. As a supervisor to PLPCs, I specialize in anxiety and trauma-based disorders, with training in Play Therapy, EMDR, CBT, and Family Systems. Connect today for a transformative journey.
Bringing compassion, challenge and hope, I focus on Bowen Family Systems Theory and EMDR for trauma.
Tim Mathia, a mental health professional with 33 years of experience, guides individuals and families towards purpose. Recognizing the courage in seeking help, I support your path to holistic wellness. Change is within reach, and I facilitate a reduction in anxiety and stress, and promote harmonious relationships. As a supervisor to PLPCs, I specialize in anxiety and trauma-based disorders, with training in Play Therapy, EMDR, CBT, and Family Systems. Connect today for a transformative journey.
(816) 290-6196 View (816) 290-6196
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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.