EMDR Therapists in Weldon Spring, MO

Photo of Jamie Hammond, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Hammond
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weldon Spring, MO 63304
Hi there! I’m so glad you are here. For many people, it takes so much courage to do the thing you hope will get you back to being the best version of yourself. Do something nice for yourself today for taking that first step! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked in mental health for 20 years, six of those years in a therapy setting. My professional experience and training include adults and older adults experiencing: burnout, depression, grief & loss, life transitions, stress, and trauma. I utilize a variety of interventions, including CBT, DBT, EMDR, and CPT. I am also a Certified Grief Informed Professional.
Hi there! I’m so glad you are here. For many people, it takes so much courage to do the thing you hope will get you back to being the best version of yourself. Do something nice for yourself today for taking that first step! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have worked in mental health for 20 years, six of those years in a therapy setting. My professional experience and training include adults and older adults experiencing: burnout, depression, grief & loss, life transitions, stress, and trauma. I utilize a variety of interventions, including CBT, DBT, EMDR, and CPT. I am also a Certified Grief Informed Professional.
(636) 242-6227 View (636) 242-6227
Photo of Tim Bizelli - Tim Bizelli Counseling LLC, LPC, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tim Bizelli Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weldon Spring, MO 63304
Tim Counseling LLC is made up of a group of licensed professional counselors and licensed clinical social workers with a combined sixty-five year plus experience in the field of mental health. The goal at Tim Bizelli Counseling LLC is to see clients reach their optimum functioning and reach the mental health goals they set with each individual counselor. Individual, couples, and family counseling are offered in this diverse counseling practice. Our counselors have genuine compassion, empathy, and motivation to be a viable resource to the client and to the community.
Tim Counseling LLC is made up of a group of licensed professional counselors and licensed clinical social workers with a combined sixty-five year plus experience in the field of mental health. The goal at Tim Bizelli Counseling LLC is to see clients reach their optimum functioning and reach the mental health goals they set with each individual counselor. Individual, couples, and family counseling are offered in this diverse counseling practice. Our counselors have genuine compassion, empathy, and motivation to be a viable resource to the client and to the community.
(636) 364-7404 View (636) 364-7404
Photo of Gerry Bethel, MA, PLPC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Gerry Bethel
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Weldon Spring, MO 63304
Welcome to a safe and supportive space where you can find the guidance and encouragement you need to overcome depression, anxiety, and a lack of vision in your life. I'm here to help men, women, and couples like you navigate the challenges you face and rediscover your true potential both individually and in your relationships. Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected can be incredibly isolating. I understand the unique struggles you may be experiencing as you seek happiness and fulfillment. In our sessions, I create a warm and non-judgmental environment where you can freely explore your emotions, fears, and aspirations.
Welcome to a safe and supportive space where you can find the guidance and encouragement you need to overcome depression, anxiety, and a lack of vision in your life. I'm here to help men, women, and couples like you navigate the challenges you face and rediscover your true potential both individually and in your relationships. Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected can be incredibly isolating. I understand the unique struggles you may be experiencing as you seek happiness and fulfillment. In our sessions, I create a warm and non-judgmental environment where you can freely explore your emotions, fears, and aspirations.
(636) 306-3045 View (636) 306-3045
Photo of Katherine Anne Rufle, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Anne Rufle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Weldon Spring, MO 63304
Fact: Covid has caused a great many changes! We expect to come up against challenges during our life, right? But not a pandemic! If the accumulation of loss, or stress has been causing anxiety or depression maybe it’s time to take action. That is a good time to call me and schedule an appointment! Stop running into that brick wall and start enjoying life!
Fact: Covid has caused a great many changes! We expect to come up against challenges during our life, right? But not a pandemic! If the accumulation of loss, or stress has been causing anxiety or depression maybe it’s time to take action. That is a good time to call me and schedule an appointment! Stop running into that brick wall and start enjoying life!
(636) 242-5910 View (636) 242-5910

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Antoinette Zvorak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antoinette Zvorak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63304
Additionally, she recently expanded her area of expertise to include EMDR; this training provides her with additional techniques to quickly and non-intrusively treat clients who experience trauma from disturbing life experiences.
Toni Zvorak, MSW, LCSW provides treatment to adults ages 18+ who struggle with anxiety, anger, and grief, as well as mood swings, sadness, self-harm, relationship issues, substance abuse, and self-sabotaging behaviors. She enjoys working with clients who have Borderline Personality Disorder, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief, and Dual Diagnosis. She focuses on coaching clients on how to build new skills that help them restore confidence in themselves and mental balance within their lives.
Additionally, she recently expanded her area of expertise to include EMDR; this training provides her with additional techniques to quickly and non-intrusively treat clients who experience trauma from disturbing life experiences.
Toni Zvorak, MSW, LCSW provides treatment to adults ages 18+ who struggle with anxiety, anger, and grief, as well as mood swings, sadness, self-harm, relationship issues, substance abuse, and self-sabotaging behaviors. She enjoys working with clients who have Borderline Personality Disorder, Trauma, Bipolar Disorder, Depression, Grief, and Dual Diagnosis. She focuses on coaching clients on how to build new skills that help them restore confidence in themselves and mental balance within their lives.
(636) 435-7083 View (636) 435-7083
Photo of Amber Kwentus, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Kwentus
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
I believe in a person-centered and holistic approach, you are your own healer and I am merely a guide to help you in your journey. In addition to being a therapist, I am an Intuitive Healer as well and incorporate this with my therapy as clients feel comfortable and open to this. I combine Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person Centered, and Trauma Informed Therapies. I am trained in EMDR as well. I am here to provide support and encouragement to facilitate growth and change. I look forward to speaking with you and assisting you in attaining your goals.
I believe in a person-centered and holistic approach, you are your own healer and I am merely a guide to help you in your journey. In addition to being a therapist, I am an Intuitive Healer as well and incorporate this with my therapy as clients feel comfortable and open to this. I combine Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person Centered, and Trauma Informed Therapies. I am trained in EMDR as well. I am here to provide support and encouragement to facilitate growth and change. I look forward to speaking with you and assisting you in attaining your goals.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081
Photo of Catherine L Kendrick, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine L Kendrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63304  (Online Only)
Trained in EMDR, this is an effective evidence based modality for those that are "stuck" or have experienced past trauma.
Are you a mom, couple, college student or professional that is struggling to make sense of your life? Do you need help setting boundaries and making yourself a priority in your own story? When you are struggling, therapy can help you find a way forward. Life can be challenging but it doesn't have to be overwhelming! My passion is working with individuals and couples going through transitions in life. Relationships are such an integral part of life's journey; if you're experiencing difficulty in yours we might be a good fit. Now offering therapy intensives- ask about how you can feel better sooner!
Trained in EMDR, this is an effective evidence based modality for those that are "stuck" or have experienced past trauma.
Are you a mom, couple, college student or professional that is struggling to make sense of your life? Do you need help setting boundaries and making yourself a priority in your own story? When you are struggling, therapy can help you find a way forward. Life can be challenging but it doesn't have to be overwhelming! My passion is working with individuals and couples going through transitions in life. Relationships are such an integral part of life's journey; if you're experiencing difficulty in yours we might be a good fit. Now offering therapy intensives- ask about how you can feel better sooner!
(636) 306-4715 View (636) 306-4715
Photo of Ian Breckenridge, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ian Breckenridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Cottleville, MO 63304
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Equilateral: an equine assisted EMDR protocol that is highly effective in treating complex trauma and PTSD.
What are you noticing about your life? How you answer that question will determine where you're headed and whether or not it's where you want to be. It's not for me to say what that is, or even if it's right or wrong. That's up to you. Equine assisted psychotherapy is one of the most unique, effective and natural processes you will find to experience yourself and how you impact the world around you. It's life changing and is a powerful way to gain new insight to you. What you do with that insight can be a bigger challenge so there's more to the story.
I am trained in Equilateral: an equine assisted EMDR protocol that is highly effective in treating complex trauma and PTSD.
What are you noticing about your life? How you answer that question will determine where you're headed and whether or not it's where you want to be. It's not for me to say what that is, or even if it's right or wrong. That's up to you. Equine assisted psychotherapy is one of the most unique, effective and natural processes you will find to experience yourself and how you impact the world around you. It's life changing and is a powerful way to gain new insight to you. What you do with that insight can be a bigger challenge so there's more to the story.
(636) 549-4123 View (636) 549-4123
Drops Of Hope Integrative Care Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DPSc, PScD, LCSW, MSW, CABSA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
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 Tara Stevens, LPC, MA, MSc, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, MSc, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
These may be figured out through talk therapy, or trauma interventions such as EMDR.
Is your heart always racing? Are you suffering from headaches, belly aches, tension in your back or neck? Do you lack patience with your kids, partner, colleagues, friends? Let's be real, life is hard. When we become overwhelmed with daily stressors, chronic stress, or trauma our body is impacted. Sometimes we need someone who isn't related to us and has no judgments to talk to. Maybe you are facing a big life change, maybe an event is constantly replaying in your mind, maybe the daily stressors are adding up. There is hope!
These may be figured out through talk therapy, or trauma interventions such as EMDR.
Is your heart always racing? Are you suffering from headaches, belly aches, tension in your back or neck? Do you lack patience with your kids, partner, colleagues, friends? Let's be real, life is hard. When we become overwhelmed with daily stressors, chronic stress, or trauma our body is impacted. Sometimes we need someone who isn't related to us and has no judgments to talk to. Maybe you are facing a big life change, maybe an event is constantly replaying in your mind, maybe the daily stressors are adding up. There is hope!
(636) 228-2253 View (636) 228-2253
Photo of Rachelle Weger, MA, LPC, CCPS, CCES, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachelle Weger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCPS, CCES
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
In order to provide my clients dealing with trauma with the best possible clinical care, I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy by The EMDR Institute.
I have specialized training through the Association of Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialists (APSATS) to work with partners of sex addicts, including compulsive pornography users. I am a Certified Clinical Partner Specialist (CCPS) and treat betrayal trauma using the Multi-Dimensional Partner Trauma Model. I am also a Certified Clinical Empathy Specialist, trained in the Early Recovery Couples Empathy Model, which supports couples in early recovery after discovery of sexual addiction or affairs. If you have been struggling with the effects of your partner's problematic sexual behaviors, I can help.
In order to provide my clients dealing with trauma with the best possible clinical care, I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy by The EMDR Institute.
I have specialized training through the Association of Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialists (APSATS) to work with partners of sex addicts, including compulsive pornography users. I am a Certified Clinical Partner Specialist (CCPS) and treat betrayal trauma using the Multi-Dimensional Partner Trauma Model. I am also a Certified Clinical Empathy Specialist, trained in the Early Recovery Couples Empathy Model, which supports couples in early recovery after discovery of sexual addiction or affairs. If you have been struggling with the effects of your partner's problematic sexual behaviors, I can help.
(636) 245-0268 View (636) 245-0268
Photo of Alicia Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alicia Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
She believes in working in partnership with clients, utilizing their strengths to help them sort out their challenges and achieve their goals. She also realizes how important it is to identify all aspects of an individual’s life that impact their well-being including their physical health, support systems (family, friends), work or school environment, and faith/spirituality in this process. Her clients include children, adolescents, families and adults. She has extensive training in treating childhood trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder which includes EMDR and TF-CBT, both evidence-based treatment modalities.
She believes in working in partnership with clients, utilizing their strengths to help them sort out their challenges and achieve their goals. She also realizes how important it is to identify all aspects of an individual’s life that impact their well-being including their physical health, support systems (family, friends), work or school environment, and faith/spirituality in this process. Her clients include children, adolescents, families and adults. She has extensive training in treating childhood trauma and Posttraumatic Stress Disorder which includes EMDR and TF-CBT, both evidence-based treatment modalities.
(636) 265-8216 View (636) 265-8216
Photo of Rhonda L Bethmann - RB Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
RB Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
I don't subscribe to a single modality, though I work mostly from an EMDR perspective.
Congratulations! You have just taken the first step on your journey of personal growth and healing! In therapy, you will discover a place where you can share your experiences and process feelings without fear of judgement. I counsel couples and adults in a comfortable, confidential atmosphere. I am a dedicated professional and I take pride in my ability to provide highly personalized strategies to meet your unique needs. I look forward to meeting with you, and to joining you on your journey of growth and healing.
I don't subscribe to a single modality, though I work mostly from an EMDR perspective.
Congratulations! You have just taken the first step on your journey of personal growth and healing! In therapy, you will discover a place where you can share your experiences and process feelings without fear of judgement. I counsel couples and adults in a comfortable, confidential atmosphere. I am a dedicated professional and I take pride in my ability to provide highly personalized strategies to meet your unique needs. I look forward to meeting with you, and to joining you on your journey of growth and healing.
(636) 486-3619 View (636) 486-3619
Photo of Bethany Bennett - Bethany Bennett EMDR Therapist , MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Bennett EMDR Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cottleville, MO 63304
I use evidence-based practices like EMDR and Somatic Therapy, which are two powerful mind/body therapies that go much deeper than traditional talk therapy.
You’ve tried talk therapy, but it hasn’t been very effective. You still feel anxious, on-edge, and overwhelmed most of the time and you just feel so stuck. You still feel depleted at work, stagnant in your relationships, and just generally on-edge. You’re looking for a different approach that’s goes deeper and creates lasting change. You’re tired of putting in all the work to feel better but only getting a temporary fix. I’m a somatic therapist and I help clients access trauma stored in both the mind and body, so they can actually feel better and for good.
I use evidence-based practices like EMDR and Somatic Therapy, which are two powerful mind/body therapies that go much deeper than traditional talk therapy.
You’ve tried talk therapy, but it hasn’t been very effective. You still feel anxious, on-edge, and overwhelmed most of the time and you just feel so stuck. You still feel depleted at work, stagnant in your relationships, and just generally on-edge. You’re looking for a different approach that’s goes deeper and creates lasting change. You’re tired of putting in all the work to feel better but only getting a temporary fix. I’m a somatic therapist and I help clients access trauma stored in both the mind and body, so they can actually feel better and for good.
(636) 336-6748 View (636) 336-6748
Photo of John Koth - John - Epic Growth LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John - Epic Growth LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
I am trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to help those who suffer from trauma.
Counseling as a whole is in higher and higher need. We've seen inflation in Missouri and across the US, horrible things happening in current wars, and of course, there is the pandemic we went through that affected literally everyone in the world. We also have, what for many will likely be, a stressful election year. Even without these things, life brings its challenges, but add the stressors we've been through for over 4 years now, in addition to the personal stressors we face, and it only makes sense that many people just like you will benefit from additional support and professional help in processing through life's difficulties.
I am trained and certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to help those who suffer from trauma.
Counseling as a whole is in higher and higher need. We've seen inflation in Missouri and across the US, horrible things happening in current wars, and of course, there is the pandemic we went through that affected literally everyone in the world. We also have, what for many will likely be, a stressful election year. Even without these things, life brings its challenges, but add the stressors we've been through for over 4 years now, in addition to the personal stressors we face, and it only makes sense that many people just like you will benefit from additional support and professional help in processing through life's difficulties.
(417) 744-5648 View (417) 744-5648
Photo of Allegra Grawer, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allegra Grawer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63304
I love using modalities such as Developmental Needs Meeting (DNMS) and EMDR, integrative therapies that help people heal ALL aspects of themselves.
I'm honored to join you on your pathway towards peace and healing. If you find yourself repeating behaviors or patterns in relationships that no longer work for you, you may benefit from healing work. Past attachment wounding and trauma may cause you to react and behave in ways that feel out of your control and very much affect who you are and how you move around in the world today. There are ways you can heal from the pain and create different, healthier, and more fulfilling paths!
I love using modalities such as Developmental Needs Meeting (DNMS) and EMDR, integrative therapies that help people heal ALL aspects of themselves.
I'm honored to join you on your pathway towards peace and healing. If you find yourself repeating behaviors or patterns in relationships that no longer work for you, you may benefit from healing work. Past attachment wounding and trauma may cause you to react and behave in ways that feel out of your control and very much affect who you are and how you move around in the world today. There are ways you can heal from the pain and create different, healthier, and more fulfilling paths!
(636) 278-9787 View (636) 278-9787
Photo of Rahul Mehta, LPC, MS, NCC, CSAT-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rahul Mehta
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
As an EMDR Certified Therapist, nationally certified psychotherapist, and CSAT-Candidate, I work with individuals struggling with sex/pornography addictions, trauma, post-traumatic stress, depression, and attachment/relational issues. New clients come to me feeling isolated, in pain, and on edge due to having nowhere to express their toughest thoughts and emotions. My clients come to me to express the things that they couldn't say to anyone else.
As an EMDR Certified Therapist, nationally certified psychotherapist, and CSAT-Candidate, I work with individuals struggling with sex/pornography addictions, trauma, post-traumatic stress, depression, and attachment/relational issues. New clients come to me feeling isolated, in pain, and on edge due to having nowhere to express their toughest thoughts and emotions. My clients come to me to express the things that they couldn't say to anyone else.
(636) 238-2750 View (636) 238-2750
Photo of Kristin Hall - True Foundations Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, CCPT, CCHT, CCBT
True Foundations Counseling, LLC
MA, LPC, CCPT, CCHT, CCBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Peters, MO 63376
My specialties include narcissistic abuse recovery, relationship counseling, trauma and PTSD, sexuality and intimacy issues, eating disorders, professional growth coaching, and EMDR and hypnotherapy for phobias, life changes and performance.
Negative events, unhealthy relationship patterns, self-destructive behaviors and an overall sense of feeling "stuck" can hold you back. Through customized and collaborative therapy, we will explore current issues of concern and relevant past experiences to help put the missing pieces of the puzzle back together for a happier, healthier you. The overall plan is to work together towards your goals with honesty, vulnerability and commitment.
My specialties include narcissistic abuse recovery, relationship counseling, trauma and PTSD, sexuality and intimacy issues, eating disorders, professional growth coaching, and EMDR and hypnotherapy for phobias, life changes and performance.
Negative events, unhealthy relationship patterns, self-destructive behaviors and an overall sense of feeling "stuck" can hold you back. Through customized and collaborative therapy, we will explore current issues of concern and relevant past experiences to help put the missing pieces of the puzzle back together for a happier, healthier you. The overall plan is to work together towards your goals with honesty, vulnerability and commitment.
(314) 834-5917 View (314) 834-5917
Photo of Christian Williams, PLPC
Christian Williams
PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Charles, MO 63304  (Online Only)
Today might have been a rough day for you. I’m sure scrolling through these profiles trying to find help might feel overwhelming. While there are no promises that I can make regarding the success of your therapeutic journey, I am here if you're looking for support, guidance, or just someone to shoulder the burden with you for awhile. Therapy consists of a variety of modalities and it's best to mix and match for each client to gain their best outcome! While I specialize in CBT, EMDR, and come highly trained in Perinatal Mood Disorders, I think you'll find that I am simply here to put all my tools to use for each client!
Today might have been a rough day for you. I’m sure scrolling through these profiles trying to find help might feel overwhelming. While there are no promises that I can make regarding the success of your therapeutic journey, I am here if you're looking for support, guidance, or just someone to shoulder the burden with you for awhile. Therapy consists of a variety of modalities and it's best to mix and match for each client to gain their best outcome! While I specialize in CBT, EMDR, and come highly trained in Perinatal Mood Disorders, I think you'll find that I am simply here to put all my tools to use for each client!
(636) 306-3013 View (636) 306-3013
Photo of Carla Wolf, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carla Wolf
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Saint Peters, MO 63376  (Online Only)
I graduated with my MS from Pittsburg State University in 2014 and am currently a fully licensed LPC in both Missouri and Oklahoma. I work mainly with adults and teenagers who struggle with mental health and substance use disorders. The mental health disorders I most frequently work with include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma related disorders. The modalities I use or pull from include: CBT, MI, DBT, and EMDR. I work to meet the client where they are in their treatment needs and to development a plan for what they want to achieve in their lives.
I graduated with my MS from Pittsburg State University in 2014 and am currently a fully licensed LPC in both Missouri and Oklahoma. I work mainly with adults and teenagers who struggle with mental health and substance use disorders. The mental health disorders I most frequently work with include depression, anxiety, PTSD, and trauma related disorders. The modalities I use or pull from include: CBT, MI, DBT, and EMDR. I work to meet the client where they are in their treatment needs and to development a plan for what they want to achieve in their lives.
(866) 738-3081 View (866) 738-3081

See more therapy options for Weldon Spring

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.