EMDR Therapists in Lake Saint Louis, MO

Photo of Karen Reeves, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Reeves
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
I use experiential techniques, including EMDR, to facilitate healing and change.
I am passionate about helping people uncover and heal emotional wounds contributing to anxiety, depression, and anger. In addition, through assessments and exploration, I can help you discover the life patterns that have kept you "stuck". Awareness of these patterns is a step toward freedom. One way to discover these patterns is through the use of the Enneagram. I am an Enneagram CP Certified Professional. See information about a group currently forming below.
I use experiential techniques, including EMDR, to facilitate healing and change.
I am passionate about helping people uncover and heal emotional wounds contributing to anxiety, depression, and anger. In addition, through assessments and exploration, I can help you discover the life patterns that have kept you "stuck". Awareness of these patterns is a step toward freedom. One way to discover these patterns is through the use of the Enneagram. I am an Enneagram CP Certified Professional. See information about a group currently forming below.
(314) 593-2507 View (314) 593-2507
Photo of Susan Zimmerling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Zimmerling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
Hi! I'm Susan. I am a licensed professional counselor providing caring therapy for kids and adults. I have experience working with clients that are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, grief, and PTSD as well as complex trauma and parenting related issues. I take a relationship focused, developmentally sensitive, and trauma informed approach to counseling. I am TF-CBT certified and trained in play therapy, PCIT, and EMDR.
Hi! I'm Susan. I am a licensed professional counselor providing caring therapy for kids and adults. I have experience working with clients that are struggling with symptoms of anxiety, grief, and PTSD as well as complex trauma and parenting related issues. I take a relationship focused, developmentally sensitive, and trauma informed approach to counseling. I am TF-CBT certified and trained in play therapy, PCIT, and EMDR.
(636) 330-1755 View (636) 330-1755
Photo of Sonya Paramore, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sonya Paramore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367  (Online Only)
I offer relational psychotherapy (talk therapy) and EMDR which together, can help to heal single incidents or lifelong trauma and abuse.
Do have a parent or family member with narcissistic traits or who regularly creates emotional or mental turmoil? Are you confused with what to do or wondering if you have a right to protect yourself from harm or toxicity? If so, you've come to the right place. I understand the fear, confusion, grief, and self-doubt you may be feeling.
I offer relational psychotherapy (talk therapy) and EMDR which together, can help to heal single incidents or lifelong trauma and abuse.
Do have a parent or family member with narcissistic traits or who regularly creates emotional or mental turmoil? Are you confused with what to do or wondering if you have a right to protect yourself from harm or toxicity? If so, you've come to the right place. I understand the fear, confusion, grief, and self-doubt you may be feeling.
(636) 435-2533 View (636) 435-2533
Photo of Rachel Meirink, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Meirink
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
I hope to create a safe space for you to share experiences that might have left you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, angry or afraid. It would be my honor to provide a warm and healing environment for you to start working through life's pains and challenges. Different approaches might be used based on your needs and goals for therapy. I utilize a variety of skills and theories including EMDR, Christian Counseling, mindfulness, self-compassion, interpersonal neurobiology, boundaries, attachment theories, and spiritual direction. I am certified in EMDR and am an EMDR Consultant-In-Training.
I hope to create a safe space for you to share experiences that might have left you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, angry or afraid. It would be my honor to provide a warm and healing environment for you to start working through life's pains and challenges. Different approaches might be used based on your needs and goals for therapy. I utilize a variety of skills and theories including EMDR, Christian Counseling, mindfulness, self-compassion, interpersonal neurobiology, boundaries, attachment theories, and spiritual direction. I am certified in EMDR and am an EMDR Consultant-In-Training.
(737) 300-6470 View (737) 300-6470
Photo of Karissa Curtis, MA, LPC, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karissa Curtis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
Waitlist for new clients
I also have training in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, TBRI, and Brainspotting.
I believe people's pain is holy and sacred ground and that every individual's story has value. I work with individuals and couples, and I'm passionate about understanding my clients' struggles and giving them hope for healing and redemption. In coming to counseling, my clients can be assured that I'll provide a safe, non-judgmental space for them to grow and find healing. Of particular interest to me is helping people who struggle with relationship difficulties, sexual intimacy issues, vaginismus, sexual shame, religious and sexual identity conflicts, spirituality, and conflict and boundary issues.
I also have training in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, TBRI, and Brainspotting.
I believe people's pain is holy and sacred ground and that every individual's story has value. I work with individuals and couples, and I'm passionate about understanding my clients' struggles and giving them hope for healing and redemption. In coming to counseling, my clients can be assured that I'll provide a safe, non-judgmental space for them to grow and find healing. Of particular interest to me is helping people who struggle with relationship difficulties, sexual intimacy issues, vaginismus, sexual shame, religious and sexual identity conflicts, spirituality, and conflict and boundary issues.
(636) 306-3471 View (636) 306-3471
Faith and Hope Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
My name is Rebecca Turay, MSW, LCSW and I provide mental health counseling services for individuals ages 18 years and over: individuals, groups, couples, family, and those with marital or relationship issues for problems with: depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic, phobias/fears, grief and loss issues, death and dying, suicide, miscarriage, abortion, divorce, blended families, parenting, substance abuse, abuse, anger issues, low self-esteem, trauma, and adjustment or life changes. I also provide EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy; and Hypnotherapy. Therapeutic approaches are individualized and provided with respect to client needs and preferences.
My name is Rebecca Turay, MSW, LCSW and I provide mental health counseling services for individuals ages 18 years and over: individuals, groups, couples, family, and those with marital or relationship issues for problems with: depression, anxiety, PTSD, panic, phobias/fears, grief and loss issues, death and dying, suicide, miscarriage, abortion, divorce, blended families, parenting, substance abuse, abuse, anger issues, low self-esteem, trauma, and adjustment or life changes. I also provide EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy; and Hypnotherapy. Therapeutic approaches are individualized and provided with respect to client needs and preferences.
(636) 329-4003 View (636) 329-4003
Photo of Katherine A Rufle, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine A Rufle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Solution Focused Therapy; Behavioral Therapy; Prolonged Exposure Therapy; Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT); Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR); Grief Therapy; Acceptance and Committment Therapay (ACT); Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and provide you with information from Psychology Tools for you.
What is YOUR goal and purpose for therapy? Together, we create the goal that you want to address. You will rate our meeting on whether it helps. I incorporate Evidenced Bases Practices (EBP) with therapy. Those practices have been researched; their outcomes have been duplicated with measurable success. Positive changes are within your grasp!
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT); Solution Focused Therapy; Behavioral Therapy; Prolonged Exposure Therapy; Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT); Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR); Grief Therapy; Acceptance and Committment Therapay (ACT); Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and provide you with information from Psychology Tools for you.
What is YOUR goal and purpose for therapy? Together, we create the goal that you want to address. You will rate our meeting on whether it helps. I incorporate Evidenced Bases Practices (EBP) with therapy. Those practices have been researched; their outcomes have been duplicated with measurable success. Positive changes are within your grasp!
(636) 241-9352 View (636) 241-9352
Photo of Cory Standridge - Cory Standridge- LPC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cory Standridge- LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
Life..... It’s so hard!! I work with adults, children, and couples. I offer a non-threatening environment in which we will build a relationship grounded in trust. I provide CBT, solution focused therapy, and a person centered approach that allows you to feel comfortable and discover the things you may not know you need, through compassionate conversation and goal centered HARD work we will collaboratively FIGURE IT OUT!!! I also offer EMDR. Call Family Life Counseling and schedule your appointment with me today! I cant wait to meet you! 636-300-9333. MO LIC #2016035164 https://www.family-life-counseling.com/hom
Life..... It’s so hard!! I work with adults, children, and couples. I offer a non-threatening environment in which we will build a relationship grounded in trust. I provide CBT, solution focused therapy, and a person centered approach that allows you to feel comfortable and discover the things you may not know you need, through compassionate conversation and goal centered HARD work we will collaboratively FIGURE IT OUT!!! I also offer EMDR. Call Family Life Counseling and schedule your appointment with me today! I cant wait to meet you! 636-300-9333. MO LIC #2016035164 https://www.family-life-counseling.com/hom
(636) 452-5517 View (636) 452-5517
Drops Of Hope Integrative Care Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DPSc, PScD, LCSW, MSW, CABSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
Waitlist for new clients
I am a brain based holistic trauma event processing therapist. I specialize in healing of traumatic events so the client is able to heal and go out and live their life to the fullest with out problematic thoughts, emotions or behaviors getting in their way. I use multiple modalities chosen by the client. I am the creator of AEP -AMPLIFIED Emotional Processing and I am Master Certified in Rapid Resolution Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and an instructor for CARE International (Center for Aromatherapy Research and Education.
I am a brain based holistic trauma event processing therapist. I specialize in healing of traumatic events so the client is able to heal and go out and live their life to the fullest with out problematic thoughts, emotions or behaviors getting in their way. I use multiple modalities chosen by the client. I am the creator of AEP -AMPLIFIED Emotional Processing and I am Master Certified in Rapid Resolution Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and an instructor for CARE International (Center for Aromatherapy Research and Education.
(636) 452-9614 View (636) 452-9614
Photo of Leah E Schlag, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah E Schlag
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
Are you an over-stressed college student? A twenty-something trying to figure out your life path? Dealing with depression and anxiety? Reaching out for help is a brave act. I am here to help. I specialize in working with millennial and gen z specific issues but I welcome all 18 and up on the therapeutic journey with me. I am also passionate about helping people process through past trauma to reclaim their lives. I tailor my approach based upon client needs and utilize EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and more. I accept several insurances.
Are you an over-stressed college student? A twenty-something trying to figure out your life path? Dealing with depression and anxiety? Reaching out for help is a brave act. I am here to help. I specialize in working with millennial and gen z specific issues but I welcome all 18 and up on the therapeutic journey with me. I am also passionate about helping people process through past trauma to reclaim their lives. I tailor my approach based upon client needs and utilize EMDR, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and more. I accept several insurances.
(636) 238-5912 View (636) 238-5912
Photo of Darby A McBride, LPC, CYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darby A McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CYT
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
In addition, I utilize EMDR, natural processing, and ego-state therapy to address trauma and negative core beliefs or cognitions.
Hello and welcome! As a counselor, I look forward to being a non-judgmental, collaborative support on your journey. My approach is warm and compassionate, and my goal is to assist you with identifying and exploring your own inner strengths as well as your hopes for the future. In discovering where you want to go, we can work together to process underlying issues that may be keeping you stuck and to develop strategies for change. I believe that everyone deserves and has the ability to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life, and that includes you!
In addition, I utilize EMDR, natural processing, and ego-state therapy to address trauma and negative core beliefs or cognitions.
Hello and welcome! As a counselor, I look forward to being a non-judgmental, collaborative support on your journey. My approach is warm and compassionate, and my goal is to assist you with identifying and exploring your own inner strengths as well as your hopes for the future. In discovering where you want to go, we can work together to process underlying issues that may be keeping you stuck and to develop strategies for change. I believe that everyone deserves and has the ability to lead a fulfilling and meaningful life, and that includes you!
(314) 310-1542 View (314) 310-1542
Photo of Nichole Oliver, LPC, NCC, NPT-C, DAAETS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nichole Oliver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, NPT-C, DAAETS
Verified Verified
19 Endorsed
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
I hold certifications in Trauma, Neuroscience, NeuroPsychotherapy, ADHD, and EMDR, specializing in PTSD/Trauma with Veterans, Firefighters, Police, and healthcare.
As an Integrative Therapist, I bring together the whole person- emotional, cognitive, behavioral, physiological, and spiritual dimensions of each individual client for lasting change. Incorporating practical neuroscience to improve neurobiology, emotional regulation, calming the mind & body, and reducing anxiety and fear. Bridging the gap between where you are today and your best-authentic self. Helping clients reduce and eliminate traumatic memories, automatic negative thoughts, rumination, patterns of self-defeating behaviors, and subconscious mechanisms is the primary goal. Mind-body therapy for lasting change!
I hold certifications in Trauma, Neuroscience, NeuroPsychotherapy, ADHD, and EMDR, specializing in PTSD/Trauma with Veterans, Firefighters, Police, and healthcare.
As an Integrative Therapist, I bring together the whole person- emotional, cognitive, behavioral, physiological, and spiritual dimensions of each individual client for lasting change. Incorporating practical neuroscience to improve neurobiology, emotional regulation, calming the mind & body, and reducing anxiety and fear. Bridging the gap between where you are today and your best-authentic self. Helping clients reduce and eliminate traumatic memories, automatic negative thoughts, rumination, patterns of self-defeating behaviors, and subconscious mechanisms is the primary goal. Mind-body therapy for lasting change!
(314) 551-9221 View (314) 551-9221
Photo of Amanda Marlen, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Marlen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367  (Online Only)
I am EMDR certifed and specialize in working with trauma, grief, anxiety, and life transitions.
How are you doing today? Life has started to become pretty overwhelming these days. It feels like we are always running from one thing to the next, maybe even feeling tense or restless but unsure why. We struggle to manage our emotions, or even know who we truly are or what we are wanting out of this life. I can help you navigate and learn from your experience.
I am EMDR certifed and specialize in working with trauma, grief, anxiety, and life transitions.
How are you doing today? Life has started to become pretty overwhelming these days. It feels like we are always running from one thing to the next, maybe even feeling tense or restless but unsure why. We struggle to manage our emotions, or even know who we truly are or what we are wanting out of this life. I can help you navigate and learn from your experience.
(636) 329-4160 View (636) 329-4160
Photo of Hollye Chaumont-Scheulen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hollye Chaumont-Scheulen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
Hi, my name is Hollye Chaumont-Scheulen and I am a licensed professional counselor who is EMDR trained in the state of Missouri. I received a Master of Arts in Counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary and a Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Texas State University. My life experience gives me a unique perspective that allows me to relate to clients from all walks of life. When you are going through something difficult, it can often feel like you are all alone. Reaching out to a counselor can be scary, but I want you to know that you are not alone. We all have times when we need a listening ear and a voice of hope.
Hi, my name is Hollye Chaumont-Scheulen and I am a licensed professional counselor who is EMDR trained in the state of Missouri. I received a Master of Arts in Counseling from Covenant Theological Seminary and a Bachelor's degree in Therapeutic Recreation from Texas State University. My life experience gives me a unique perspective that allows me to relate to clients from all walks of life. When you are going through something difficult, it can often feel like you are all alone. Reaching out to a counselor can be scary, but I want you to know that you are not alone. We all have times when we need a listening ear and a voice of hope.
(636) 942-5965 View (636) 942-5965
Photo of Rabia Shoaib, PLPC
Rabia Shoaib
PLPC
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
I offer a range of therapeutic approaches for my clients, including CBT, PCT, EMDR, CPRT, and trauma-informed care.
I've honed my skills in a variety of settings providing mental health services over years, this allows me to connect with my clients who are of all ages, from children who are just starting to find their voice to adults and families navigating life's challenges, and seniors in various settings, helping them to overcome challenges and embrace the opportunities that come with later life.
I offer a range of therapeutic approaches for my clients, including CBT, PCT, EMDR, CPRT, and trauma-informed care.
I've honed my skills in a variety of settings providing mental health services over years, this allows me to connect with my clients who are of all ages, from children who are just starting to find their voice to adults and families navigating life's challenges, and seniors in various settings, helping them to overcome challenges and embrace the opportunities that come with later life.
(636) 689-8263 View (636) 689-8263
Photo of Karla Pollock-Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karla Pollock-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367  (Online Only)
You are a successful career woman who is fighting anxiety every stinking day. You say “yes” without considering your schedule or your needs. You worry all of the time about what others think about you and you tend to act differently depending on who you are around. You are scared of being rejected or abandoned, and you spend way too much time in your head replaying conversations you’ve had, fearful that you said something wrong. You doubt yourself frequently and hate to make decisions! Your body has a lot of tension and you’ve been to your doctor or an ER because you thought you were having a heart attack. Time to invest in you.
You are a successful career woman who is fighting anxiety every stinking day. You say “yes” without considering your schedule or your needs. You worry all of the time about what others think about you and you tend to act differently depending on who you are around. You are scared of being rejected or abandoned, and you spend way too much time in your head replaying conversations you’ve had, fearful that you said something wrong. You doubt yourself frequently and hate to make decisions! Your body has a lot of tension and you’ve been to your doctor or an ER because you thought you were having a heart attack. Time to invest in you.
(636) 597-6290 View (636) 597-6290
Photo of Latonia Coates-Smith, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Latonia Coates-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
Embracing healing and wellness is key to maximizing your potential. Serving as a therapist and educator, I help clients understand the underlying factor(s) contributing to unresolved issues within their personal & professional lives. My goal is to provide a holistic approach to treatment by assessing the individual's environment as well as their mental, physical, and spiritual well being. The whelm of my practice has been demonstrated in both psychiatric and medical settings offering crisis intervention, intensive case management, and counseling to a diverse population.
Embracing healing and wellness is key to maximizing your potential. Serving as a therapist and educator, I help clients understand the underlying factor(s) contributing to unresolved issues within their personal & professional lives. My goal is to provide a holistic approach to treatment by assessing the individual's environment as well as their mental, physical, and spiritual well being. The whelm of my practice has been demonstrated in both psychiatric and medical settings offering crisis intervention, intensive case management, and counseling to a diverse population.
(636) 238-5944 View (636) 238-5944
Photo of Nathan E Lundin, MA, NCC, LPC, CSAT-S, EMDR-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nathan E Lundin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CSAT-S, EMDR-II
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
If you've tried stopping unwanted sexual behaviors but continue despite the costs, then you're not alone - you're among a growing number of people seeking help. This type of therapy utilizes tasks focused on quickly establishing a stable and robust recovery. In the end, you'll be free from the secrecy and shame of living with an addiction.
If you've tried stopping unwanted sexual behaviors but continue despite the costs, then you're not alone - you're among a growing number of people seeking help. This type of therapy utilizes tasks focused on quickly establishing a stable and robust recovery. In the end, you'll be free from the secrecy and shame of living with an addiction.
(636) 329-4293 View (636) 329-4293
Photo of Kimberly Wall, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kimberly Wall
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
Welcome! Perhaps you're here because you feel overwhelmed or consumed by your strong emotions; your own voice gets lost in the chaos. Perhaps you find yourself doing all of the work in your relationships while sacrificing so much for others and still feeling alone. Perhaps you prioritize the needs of others, to your own detriment, while compromising on boundaries in an effort to seek acceptance. You know you want authentic connection, but anxiety and depression cripple your ability to build the life you want. Your needs matter, and I would be honored to hold space for the parts of you that long to be heard.
Welcome! Perhaps you're here because you feel overwhelmed or consumed by your strong emotions; your own voice gets lost in the chaos. Perhaps you find yourself doing all of the work in your relationships while sacrificing so much for others and still feeling alone. Perhaps you prioritize the needs of others, to your own detriment, while compromising on boundaries in an effort to seek acceptance. You know you want authentic connection, but anxiety and depression cripple your ability to build the life you want. Your needs matter, and I would be honored to hold space for the parts of you that long to be heard.
(636) 202-0343 View (636) 202-0343
Photo of Adam Pearson - Pearson Psychological and Evaluation Services, MA, LPC, LCPC, LMHC, CMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pearson Psychological and Evaluation Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, LMHC, CMHC
Verified Verified
Lake Saint Louis, MO 63367
Hi, I'm Adam Pearson. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and was trained by a Psychiatrist for two years. I use a variety of techniques and tools. Therapy is typically 8-16 weeks; around eight weeks, your symptoms should go from Severe to Moderate, and 16-18 weeks, moderate to mild. I practice from a faith-based perspective, but all are welcome. You can text, call, or email; I typically see a new patient within 48-72 hours. I had PTSD, Depression, and OCD and am now free. Now it's your turn! This is where you learn to love and like yourself, maybe for the first time. I have helped 1000s. This is your flying lesson!
Hi, I'm Adam Pearson. I have a Master's in Clinical Psychology and was trained by a Psychiatrist for two years. I use a variety of techniques and tools. Therapy is typically 8-16 weeks; around eight weeks, your symptoms should go from Severe to Moderate, and 16-18 weeks, moderate to mild. I practice from a faith-based perspective, but all are welcome. You can text, call, or email; I typically see a new patient within 48-72 hours. I had PTSD, Depression, and OCD and am now free. Now it's your turn! This is where you learn to love and like yourself, maybe for the first time. I have helped 1000s. This is your flying lesson!
(618) 657-8594 View (618) 657-8594
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See more therapy options for Lake Saint Louis

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.