EMDR Therapists in Maplewood, MO

Photo of Angela Lovett, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Lovett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hi there, I am here to help you. I work with individuals, couples, and families with struggles ranging from current life issues, relationship struggles, and issues that have been a lifelong battle. Clients often come to me because they have hit the lowest point and have never felt more alone, even after trying therapy countless times before. Many clients have left counseling finding resolution and a drive to live their life to the fullest. My clients have expressed finding healing, feeling equipped to manage life, and having healthier relationships and connections with others that they previously thought weren't possible.
I am trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hi there, I am here to help you. I work with individuals, couples, and families with struggles ranging from current life issues, relationship struggles, and issues that have been a lifelong battle. Clients often come to me because they have hit the lowest point and have never felt more alone, even after trying therapy countless times before. Many clients have left counseling finding resolution and a drive to live their life to the fullest. My clients have expressed finding healing, feeling equipped to manage life, and having healthier relationships and connections with others that they previously thought weren't possible.
(314) 207-0749 View (314) 207-0749
Photo of undefined - Hebisen Counseling LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hebisen Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize EMDR therapy when appropriate and requested.
Waitlisting clients as of April 2023. - If you are like me, you have procrastinated this decision to seek counseling for some time, and you are steadily nearing desperation. Entering into therapy is difficult - it is important to find a therapist with whom you connect. I provide a free phone consultation and a half price first session, so we can decide if we are a good fit. I work best with clients who are motivated to begin the explorative process towards healing. I seek to honor the vulnerability required to make changes in one's life by listening without judgment and growing to understand the individual's experiences.
I utilize EMDR therapy when appropriate and requested.
Waitlisting clients as of April 2023. - If you are like me, you have procrastinated this decision to seek counseling for some time, and you are steadily nearing desperation. Entering into therapy is difficult - it is important to find a therapist with whom you connect. I provide a free phone consultation and a half price first session, so we can decide if we are a good fit. I work best with clients who are motivated to begin the explorative process towards healing. I seek to honor the vulnerability required to make changes in one's life by listening without judgment and growing to understand the individual's experiences.
(314) 207-4270 View (314) 207-4270
Photo of Erica Lynn Braun, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Lynn Braun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143
She offers individual psychotherapy, EMDR therapy and relationship counseling.
Erica is a seasoned, compassionate therapist - dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Erica has become a trusted guide for those seeking support and transformation in their lives. Erica has a diverse background, having worked with individuals facing a spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Her holistic approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices with personalized strategies, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of her client.
She offers individual psychotherapy, EMDR therapy and relationship counseling.
Erica is a seasoned, compassionate therapist - dedicated to empowering individuals on their journey towards mental and emotional well-being. With a wealth of experience and a commitment to excellence, Erica has become a trusted guide for those seeking support and transformation in their lives. Erica has a diverse background, having worked with individuals facing a spectrum of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship difficulties. Her holistic approach to therapy integrates evidence-based practices with personalized strategies, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs and goals of her client.
(314) 310-3654 View (314) 310-3654
Photo of Emily Hudson, ND, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Hudson
Licensed Professional Counselor, ND, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143
Waitlist for new clients
I'm also EMDR trained and approach every client with a trauma informed lens.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the state of Missouri. I received a Masters in Counseling Psychology as well as a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in 2017. During my studies, I was a staff counselor at Bastyr University. In addition, I offered low cost therapy to the community at a year long internship at Seattle Therapy Alliance. I spent 4 years as a clinical fellow at Roots Renewal Counseling in St. Louis, MO. I enjoy working with adults experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression, OCD, grief/loss, chronic illness, identity development, career, body image and self confidence.
I'm also EMDR trained and approach every client with a trauma informed lens.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with the state of Missouri. I received a Masters in Counseling Psychology as well as a Doctorate in Naturopathic Medicine from Bastyr University in 2017. During my studies, I was a staff counselor at Bastyr University. In addition, I offered low cost therapy to the community at a year long internship at Seattle Therapy Alliance. I spent 4 years as a clinical fellow at Roots Renewal Counseling in St. Louis, MO. I enjoy working with adults experiencing issues related to anxiety, depression, OCD, grief/loss, chronic illness, identity development, career, body image and self confidence.
(314) 626-8862 View (314) 626-8862
Photo of Rachel Peterka, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Peterka
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MO 63143
I've achieved basic and advanced training in EMDR therapy specifically for attachment trauma, training through the International Association of Clinical Sex Addiction Specialists for spouses of betrayal, and training through the Gottman Institute for couples work.
Have you ever wondered if your past sexual experiences might be negatively affecting your current well being? My counseling practice centers around helping individuals and couples who have experienced sexual trauma and/or brokenness in any of its various forms. Whether it be due to past abuse, recent infidelity, or a history of sexual, physical and emotional betrayal and trauma, I consider it a privilege to walk with clients into the darkness of their stories. I enjoy coming alongside and advocating for those who are tired of just coping, dissatisfied with their quality of life, and desperate for deep change and healing.
I've achieved basic and advanced training in EMDR therapy specifically for attachment trauma, training through the International Association of Clinical Sex Addiction Specialists for spouses of betrayal, and training through the Gottman Institute for couples work.
Have you ever wondered if your past sexual experiences might be negatively affecting your current well being? My counseling practice centers around helping individuals and couples who have experienced sexual trauma and/or brokenness in any of its various forms. Whether it be due to past abuse, recent infidelity, or a history of sexual, physical and emotional betrayal and trauma, I consider it a privilege to walk with clients into the darkness of their stories. I enjoy coming alongside and advocating for those who are tired of just coping, dissatisfied with their quality of life, and desperate for deep change and healing.
(314) 310-4882 View (314) 310-4882
Photo of Danielle High, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle High
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MO 63143
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in a variety of counseling methods including EMDR, DBT, IFS, and attachment focused therapy.
I know reaching out for help can be daunting and overwhelming. I am here to make this process easier for you. I have worked with individuals and families from differing backgrounds, experiences, and concerns. My counseling style is strength-based, meaning I like to focus on the many positive traits you already possess and work collaboratively to reach the goals you would like to achieve. We are all searching for acceptance and understanding. I am here to help. I have extensive experience working with individuals that have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, and non-monogamous relationships.
I am trained in a variety of counseling methods including EMDR, DBT, IFS, and attachment focused therapy.
I know reaching out for help can be daunting and overwhelming. I am here to make this process easier for you. I have worked with individuals and families from differing backgrounds, experiences, and concerns. My counseling style is strength-based, meaning I like to focus on the many positive traits you already possess and work collaboratively to reach the goals you would like to achieve. We are all searching for acceptance and understanding. I am here to help. I have extensive experience working with individuals that have experienced trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, LGBTQIA+ related concerns, and non-monogamous relationships.
(314) 270-1294 View (314) 270-1294
Photo of Paige Lynch, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paige Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143
I primarily use EMDR, Family Systems Theory, Feminist Theory, and Attachment Theory to help my clients.
I work with those who struggle with trauma, relationship problems, and not taking care of oneself first. I have experience working with those who have sexual abuse or assault histories, trauma within problematic relationships, and compassion fatigue. Trauma comes in all sizes and from a variety of experiences, so do not discount what you have lived through. No matter the circumstances that bring you into therapy, we will spend time healing your wounds to help you grow into the person you wish to be, with a stronger sense of safety.
I primarily use EMDR, Family Systems Theory, Feminist Theory, and Attachment Theory to help my clients.
I work with those who struggle with trauma, relationship problems, and not taking care of oneself first. I have experience working with those who have sexual abuse or assault histories, trauma within problematic relationships, and compassion fatigue. Trauma comes in all sizes and from a variety of experiences, so do not discount what you have lived through. No matter the circumstances that bring you into therapy, we will spend time healing your wounds to help you grow into the person you wish to be, with a stronger sense of safety.
(314) 328-7597 View (314) 328-7597
Photo of undefined - Midwest Trauma Recovery Center , MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Midwest Trauma Recovery Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143
I am experienced and skilled in the evidence-based treatments for the treatment of past trauma like EMDR.
Are you struggling because of something that happened in the recent or distant past? Have you experienced something traumatic like abuse, combat, physical violence, rape or robbery? Do you view the world negatively? Have you re-experienced the past or feel like 'it's happening all over again"? Do you avoid things you used to do for fear of being reminded of the past? Do you hate when people bring it up? You may be struggling with trauma triggers.
I am experienced and skilled in the evidence-based treatments for the treatment of past trauma like EMDR.
Are you struggling because of something that happened in the recent or distant past? Have you experienced something traumatic like abuse, combat, physical violence, rape or robbery? Do you view the world negatively? Have you re-experienced the past or feel like 'it's happening all over again"? Do you avoid things you used to do for fear of being reminded of the past? Do you hate when people bring it up? You may be struggling with trauma triggers.
(314) 310-2738 View (314) 310-2738
Photo of Amanda Moeller, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Moeller
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143  (Online Only)
Do you or your child display high emotional intensity? Passion and drive for learning? Insatiable curiosity, extreme focus and perfectionist tendencies? Deep empathy and awareness of social injustices and hypocrisy? Fear of trying new things and anxiety about the unknown? Gifted individuals are characterized by their heightened perceptions of self and the world around them, but are often limited in their ability to process their intense reactions and emotions. I understand and can relate to the varied and complex needs within the gifted population.
Do you or your child display high emotional intensity? Passion and drive for learning? Insatiable curiosity, extreme focus and perfectionist tendencies? Deep empathy and awareness of social injustices and hypocrisy? Fear of trying new things and anxiety about the unknown? Gifted individuals are characterized by their heightened perceptions of self and the world around them, but are often limited in their ability to process their intense reactions and emotions. I understand and can relate to the varied and complex needs within the gifted population.
(314) 309-2867 View (314) 309-2867
Photo of Kathryn Stinson, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathryn Stinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143
Waitlist for new clients
You're living a different story. Maybe you always knew you would, because something about you has always been unusual. Maybe you planned to travel a well known path, but something happened, and you can't just go back to the way things were. Maybe you're burned out because something that was working for a long time just doesn't work anymore. Maybe you feel anxiety or depression or trauma is holding you back. You want to talk to someone comfortable with unconventional terrain, someone who doesn't insist that returning to the paved road is the answer but joins with you in the difficult work of mapping out new territory together.
You're living a different story. Maybe you always knew you would, because something about you has always been unusual. Maybe you planned to travel a well known path, but something happened, and you can't just go back to the way things were. Maybe you're burned out because something that was working for a long time just doesn't work anymore. Maybe you feel anxiety or depression or trauma is holding you back. You want to talk to someone comfortable with unconventional terrain, someone who doesn't insist that returning to the paved road is the answer but joins with you in the difficult work of mapping out new territory together.
(314) 827-6803 View (314) 827-6803
Photo of Jamese Walton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jamese Walton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MO 63143
Are you navigating tough times such as single parenting, co-parenting, divorce, or challenges with infidelity? Are you experiencing conflict in your relationships, finding it hard to advocate for yourself, or recognizing the need for setting healthy boundaries? Are you finding it difficult to balance your faith beliefs with your mental health journey? As a therapist specializing in relational trauma, faith integration, and mental health, I offer a range of services to support you on your journey to healing and growth.
Are you navigating tough times such as single parenting, co-parenting, divorce, or challenges with infidelity? Are you experiencing conflict in your relationships, finding it hard to advocate for yourself, or recognizing the need for setting healthy boundaries? Are you finding it difficult to balance your faith beliefs with your mental health journey? As a therapist specializing in relational trauma, faith integration, and mental health, I offer a range of services to support you on your journey to healing and growth.
(314) 470-9346 View (314) 470-9346
Photo of Kelly Buckley, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Buckley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143
Not accepting new clients as of 4/21/24. Have you been feeling that, despite your best efforts, the same negative things keep happening to you? It may be that friendships feel out of reach, intimate relationships fail, or jobs don’t work out. You may find yourself struggling to believe that you can have success or happiness.
Not accepting new clients as of 4/21/24. Have you been feeling that, despite your best efforts, the same negative things keep happening to you? It may be that friendships feel out of reach, intimate relationships fail, or jobs don’t work out. You may find yourself struggling to believe that you can have success or happiness.
(314) 912-0648 View (314) 912-0648
Photo of Brittanie Zwart, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brittanie Zwart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143  (Online Only)
May & June Intakes Open! - You know how to juggle a million things. You’re constantly on the go and doing everything for everyone. There’s no time to stop and not a minute to spare. Sometimes you get in a flow and think, “I’ve got this!” But when you hit a bump in the road - your strong exterior comes crashing down. Suddenly everything is a disaster and nothing is working. You hate this. You don’t know why you feel this way - nothing is seriously “wrong” or “bad” in your life. You are wondering, “Why does it seem like everyone else has it figured out?” The harder that you work to get things together - the worse you feel.
May & June Intakes Open! - You know how to juggle a million things. You’re constantly on the go and doing everything for everyone. There’s no time to stop and not a minute to spare. Sometimes you get in a flow and think, “I’ve got this!” But when you hit a bump in the road - your strong exterior comes crashing down. Suddenly everything is a disaster and nothing is working. You hate this. You don’t know why you feel this way - nothing is seriously “wrong” or “bad” in your life. You are wondering, “Why does it seem like everyone else has it figured out?” The harder that you work to get things together - the worse you feel.
(636) 400-1267 View (636) 400-1267
Photo of Kelly Pittman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Pittman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MO 63143
You have an incredibly difficult time saying no to friends, coworkers and family. You feel constant pressure to "get things right" and can immediately go to the worst case scenario when something is off. You have a constant critic in your head that won't stop. You can't remember what you did this morning because your mind goes a mile a minute. It's like you can't catch a break. It doesn't have to be this way; I can help. I love working with busy, exhausted queer and cis, het women and teens to help you give your mind a break; to finally find relief from your inner critic, decrease your worry and stress.
You have an incredibly difficult time saying no to friends, coworkers and family. You feel constant pressure to "get things right" and can immediately go to the worst case scenario when something is off. You have a constant critic in your head that won't stop. You can't remember what you did this morning because your mind goes a mile a minute. It's like you can't catch a break. It doesn't have to be this way; I can help. I love working with busy, exhausted queer and cis, het women and teens to help you give your mind a break; to finally find relief from your inner critic, decrease your worry and stress.
(314) 860-7121 View (314) 860-7121
Photo of Gina Howe, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gina Howe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MO 63143  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, DBT, CPT &CBT.
I have 25 years of experience and specialized training in the field of trauma treatment and mental health. Areas of focus: depression, anxiety, panic, relationships, physical, emotional and sexual violence, child sexual abuse, post-traumatic and acute stress symptoms, dissociation, grief/loss, accident related trauma, direct or secondary traumatic experience, first responder and military incidents of stress. Clients that have experienced traumatic events often feel as if they are not themselves, may have intrusive thoughts, difficulty with focus, trust and may feel jumpy and/or numb. I would like to help you find your way through.
I am trained in EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Internal Family Systems, DBT, CPT &CBT.
I have 25 years of experience and specialized training in the field of trauma treatment and mental health. Areas of focus: depression, anxiety, panic, relationships, physical, emotional and sexual violence, child sexual abuse, post-traumatic and acute stress symptoms, dissociation, grief/loss, accident related trauma, direct or secondary traumatic experience, first responder and military incidents of stress. Clients that have experienced traumatic events often feel as if they are not themselves, may have intrusive thoughts, difficulty with focus, trust and may feel jumpy and/or numb. I would like to help you find your way through.
(314) 451-7672 View (314) 451-7672
Photo of Lauren Komp, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Komp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maplewood, MO 63143
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in a variety of counseling methods including EMDR, Parts Work, DBT, CBT, and attachment focused therapies.
I am not currently accepting new clients. Hi and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have been providing therapy services for 10 years. I have a background in treating individuals who have experienced trauma, are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues. I can also help with life transitions, lack of motivation, and struggles with self-esteem. I have specialized experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and those who identify as non-monogamous. I see individuals ranging in ages from 16 years old and up.
I am trained in a variety of counseling methods including EMDR, Parts Work, DBT, CBT, and attachment focused therapies.
I am not currently accepting new clients. Hi and welcome! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have been providing therapy services for 10 years. I have a background in treating individuals who have experienced trauma, are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, and relationship issues. I can also help with life transitions, lack of motivation, and struggles with self-esteem. I have specialized experience working with the LGBTQIA+ community and those who identify as non-monogamous. I see individuals ranging in ages from 16 years old and up.
(314) 274-6632 View (314) 274-6632
Photo of Kyle Brandt-Lubart, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kyle Brandt-Lubart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MO 63143
Not accepting new clients
Therapy has the power to facilitate a relationship with the self that is tender, introspective, and vibrant. My goal is to support you in nurturing this relationship. In therapy we will always work as collaborators. I specialize in trauma therapy and integrating expressive arts approaches, but have experience working with a wide variety of clients.
Therapy has the power to facilitate a relationship with the self that is tender, introspective, and vibrant. My goal is to support you in nurturing this relationship. In therapy we will always work as collaborators. I specialize in trauma therapy and integrating expressive arts approaches, but have experience working with a wide variety of clients.
(314) 463-4563 View (314) 463-4563

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of undefined - Amy Turk Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Turk Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Webster Groves, MO 63119
I also treat trauma with EMDR.
Our mental health is impacted by our physiology as well as a variety of environmental factors. My approach as a therapist is to get to know you and your unique story very well. In the process, we identify which parts play what role and how best to heal. I work collaboratively with you to optimize functioning, restore inner peace and find happiness. Allow me to help you along on your healing and growth journey.
I also treat trauma with EMDR.
Our mental health is impacted by our physiology as well as a variety of environmental factors. My approach as a therapist is to get to know you and your unique story very well. In the process, we identify which parts play what role and how best to heal. I work collaboratively with you to optimize functioning, restore inner peace and find happiness. Allow me to help you along on your healing and growth journey.
(314) 852-8543 View (314) 852-8543
Photo of Laura Adamgbo, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Adamgbo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
(314) 925-1850 View (314) 925-1850
Photo of Afshan Malik, LPC, EMDR, Coach, MP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Afshan Malik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, Coach, MP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119  (Online Only)
 Our sessions may include the use of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Family Systems Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Positive Parenting, Narrative Therapy, and Life Coaching skills as needed.
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
 Our sessions may include the use of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Family Systems Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Positive Parenting, Narrative Therapy, and Life Coaching skills as needed.
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
(314) 310-7916 View (314) 310-7916

See more therapy options for Maplewood

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.