EMDR Therapists in Wildwood, MO
![Photo of Karen Memhardt - A House of Therapy, LLC, MA, MedPysc, LPC, EMDR, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/585847b8-d951-4f17-943c-e9135d55c1e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
A House of Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MedPysc, LPC, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, psychological evaluations and testing for ADHD, personality disorders, Bipolar, learning disorders, autism for work or school accommodations. I work with clients who would benefit from in-depth talk therapy, who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, past or present trauma, addictions, personal, family or work related relationship issues.
I offer psychodynamic psychotherapy, EMDR therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, psychological evaluations and testing for ADHD, personality disorders, Bipolar, learning disorders, autism for work or school accommodations. I work with clients who would benefit from in-depth talk therapy, who are struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, past or present trauma, addictions, personal, family or work related relationship issues.
![Photo of Aisha Lubinski, MA, LPC, RD, LD, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/54a63626-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Aisha Lubinski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RD, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63005
Through a technique known as EMDR, Aisha works to help challenge those thoughts, feelings, and distressing events.
Sometimes we move into a season of life where we realize something needs to change. We don’t always know what that change is, but we sense that without it, we may not be able to move forward. Therapy is the exploration and healing of that season of life. We have a tendency to repeat old patterns that don’t get us to our goal, but struggle to come up with a different path. This doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. In fact, it means that a part of you believes deeply that the way you’re doing things is helpful, even though the end result doesn’t seem so wonderful! Let’s try to create a path to freedom together!
Through a technique known as EMDR, Aisha works to help challenge those thoughts, feelings, and distressing events.
Sometimes we move into a season of life where we realize something needs to change. We don’t always know what that change is, but we sense that without it, we may not be able to move forward. Therapy is the exploration and healing of that season of life. We have a tendency to repeat old patterns that don’t get us to our goal, but struggle to come up with a different path. This doesn’t mean there’s anything wrong with you. In fact, it means that a part of you believes deeply that the way you’re doing things is helpful, even though the end result doesn’t seem so wonderful! Let’s try to create a path to freedom together!
![Photo of Denise Frisella, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b24ea375-3068-4eab-9d42-6ac19324d4e8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Denise Frisella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63011 (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR trauma therapy, grief and loss, depression and fostering general mental health and wellness. My practice is anchored in offering a compassionate space that promotes healing. Together we'll work toward releasing blockages and nurturing your path to recovery as you evolve and deepen your self connection.
I specialize in EMDR trauma therapy, grief and loss, depression and fostering general mental health and wellness. My practice is anchored in offering a compassionate space that promotes healing. Together we'll work toward releasing blockages and nurturing your path to recovery as you evolve and deepen your self connection.
![Photo of Madeline M. Senay, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c6c3913-4df3-45af-a40a-184dee187482/2/320x400.jpeg)
Madeline M. Senay
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63038
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), both evidence based treatments for survivors of trauma.
When I was serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, the comfort of someone speaking my language was immeasurable. Speaking your language is important to me. Whether it’s through humor, warmth, empathy, or directness, I strive to make therapy relieving rather than another foreign experience. When therapists discuss what type of therapy they do, is it just another set of abbreviations with absolutely no meaning? Let me be your translator. I deeply value education, so if you are unfamiliar with any of the therapies I list below, I will explain extensively as to how they work within session. If you like learning, I'm your person.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), both evidence based treatments for survivors of trauma.
When I was serving as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ukraine, the comfort of someone speaking my language was immeasurable. Speaking your language is important to me. Whether it’s through humor, warmth, empathy, or directness, I strive to make therapy relieving rather than another foreign experience. When therapists discuss what type of therapy they do, is it just another set of abbreviations with absolutely no meaning? Let me be your translator. I deeply value education, so if you are unfamiliar with any of the therapies I list below, I will explain extensively as to how they work within session. If you like learning, I'm your person.
![Photo of Dre Kime, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8a092aa4-8c69-4cbb-8604-dad2b7746655/1/320x400.jpeg)
I hope to empower clients by utilizing the transformative journey of therapy and EMDR to heal from past traumas and create a brighter, more resilient future.
Everyone has a story, and every story is complex. If you're feeling exhausted, stuck, alone, or anxious, know that you don't have to face these challenges alone. I'm here to help you navigate life's complexities and find a path to healing and growth.
I hope to empower clients by utilizing the transformative journey of therapy and EMDR to heal from past traumas and create a brighter, more resilient future.
Everyone has a story, and every story is complex. If you're feeling exhausted, stuck, alone, or anxious, know that you don't have to face these challenges alone. I'm here to help you navigate life's complexities and find a path to healing and growth.
![Photo of Amber J Kwentus - Amber Kwentus, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2f6b1ae5-0425-45f9-b6d3-8e94014b73e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
I believe in a person-centered and holistic approach. I am passionate about leading clients through their pain to find their purpose and to lead an inspired life! My approach is a blending of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person Centered, and Trauma Informed Therapies. I am trained in EMDR as well.
I believe in a person-centered and holistic approach. I am passionate about leading clients through their pain to find their purpose and to lead an inspired life! My approach is a blending of Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Person Centered, and Trauma Informed Therapies. I am trained in EMDR as well.
![Photo of J Meyer, LPC, PhD, MBA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0143de50-cc5d-4377-80f1-e57aa4b74712/3/320x400.jpeg)
I'm an EMDR certified practitioner specialize in grief and trauma.
Life is hard and unpredictable, and we all have struggles within ourselves, with relationships, and with directions in life. As a result, we may experience anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, or simply feeling lost. The recognition of our shared human condition is what motivated me to become a counselor. I bring a wealth of life and professional experiences to the counseling practice with a 20-year career in biotech and business. I believe my life experiences as a parent and professional afford me the broad perspectives to connect with clients and to facilitate personal growth.
I'm an EMDR certified practitioner specialize in grief and trauma.
Life is hard and unpredictable, and we all have struggles within ourselves, with relationships, and with directions in life. As a result, we may experience anxiety, depression, lack of motivation, or simply feeling lost. The recognition of our shared human condition is what motivated me to become a counselor. I bring a wealth of life and professional experiences to the counseling practice with a 20-year career in biotech and business. I believe my life experiences as a parent and professional afford me the broad perspectives to connect with clients and to facilitate personal growth.
![Photo of Afshan Malik, LPC, EMDR, Coach, MP, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ab59a4e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Afshan Malik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, Coach, MP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63011 (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.
![Photo of Dana Patton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8c847da9-f5ad-42d7-98dc-a78def563615/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dana Patton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63040 (Online Only)
I rely on evidence-based practices, and I’m a certified EMDR therapist.
Do you feel overwhelmed or defeated with life's unexpected turns? Feeling pushed beyond your ability to cope? I believe that no matter who you are, as a human being we all need support throughout our lives. It takes courage and strength to reach out for support. I'm a compassionate and empathetic therapist who understands how difficult it can be and you do not have to carry the weight forever.
I rely on evidence-based practices, and I’m a certified EMDR therapist.
Do you feel overwhelmed or defeated with life's unexpected turns? Feeling pushed beyond your ability to cope? I believe that no matter who you are, as a human being we all need support throughout our lives. It takes courage and strength to reach out for support. I'm a compassionate and empathetic therapist who understands how difficult it can be and you do not have to carry the weight forever.
![Photo of Gina Rivera Sokolich Emdr Brainspotting Narcissist Abuse, MA, LPC, CTP, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1bf7e890-26ed-4008-8291-cd8fbb3890f3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Gina Rivera Sokolich Emdr Brainspotting Narcissist Abuse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CTP, BCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63025
We create a clearly collaborative situation using Brainspotting (BSP) and/or EMDR.
Let’s talk about why you're attracted to specific types people, why you sometimes find yourself stuck in repetitive relationship patterns, and why you often hesitate to build connections even with well-intentioned people. With my help, you don't have to remain trapped in these relentless patterns. Join me for an EMDR or Brainspotting Intensive This means we have a longer session time and can do more work to get you feeling better sooner. Get so much more done in a shorter amount of time! It's time for you to feel better! Don't wait any longer, call now!
We create a clearly collaborative situation using Brainspotting (BSP) and/or EMDR.
Let’s talk about why you're attracted to specific types people, why you sometimes find yourself stuck in repetitive relationship patterns, and why you often hesitate to build connections even with well-intentioned people. With my help, you don't have to remain trapped in these relentless patterns. Join me for an EMDR or Brainspotting Intensive This means we have a longer session time and can do more work to get you feeling better sooner. Get so much more done in a shorter amount of time! It's time for you to feel better! Don't wait any longer, call now!
![Photo of Angela Sastry, PhD, LPC, EMDR-C, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f640d5e3-a7f8-4b86-a855-18bc6804bb35/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angela Sastry
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, EMDR-C, RYT
Verified Verified
Wildwood, MO 63021
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a nervous system-centered approach that combines neuroscience, EMDR, somatic practices, parts work, attachment theory, and ego state work to help you get to the root issues holding you back and keeping you from overcoming difficult life experiences and challenging situations.
Are you looking to experience more joy and peace in your life while increasing your resilience and balance? Do you want to improve your relationships? I believe encouragement and acceptance are essential. Therefore, I utilize a holistic person-centered approach focused on you as a whole person. My goal as a therapist is to help you attain emotional well-being, enhance your resilience, and unlock your full potential. By adopting a nervous system approach that focuses on your entire being, body, and mind, you can tap into your innate capacity for healing, resulting in profound personal growth.
I offer a nervous system-centered approach that combines neuroscience, EMDR, somatic practices, parts work, attachment theory, and ego state work to help you get to the root issues holding you back and keeping you from overcoming difficult life experiences and challenging situations.
Are you looking to experience more joy and peace in your life while increasing your resilience and balance? Do you want to improve your relationships? I believe encouragement and acceptance are essential. Therefore, I utilize a holistic person-centered approach focused on you as a whole person. My goal as a therapist is to help you attain emotional well-being, enhance your resilience, and unlock your full potential. By adopting a nervous system approach that focuses on your entire being, body, and mind, you can tap into your innate capacity for healing, resulting in profound personal growth.
![Photo of Katie Thompson, LPC, NCC, CEDS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4c0928c5-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Katie Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CEDS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63040
My name is Katie Thompson and I have been practicing for over a decade as a therapist. I am trained to treat eating disorders, PTSD/complex trauma, attachment disorders, mood disorders, self-injury, addictions and family conflict. I also have a special interest in treating eating disorders within blended families. I utilize a direct and honest approach coupled with compassion to help guide clients into the journey of recovery and healing. My mission is to help you peel back the layers of protection that have kept you from living the life you want and guide you in the process of living a balanced life.
My name is Katie Thompson and I have been practicing for over a decade as a therapist. I am trained to treat eating disorders, PTSD/complex trauma, attachment disorders, mood disorders, self-injury, addictions and family conflict. I also have a special interest in treating eating disorders within blended families. I utilize a direct and honest approach coupled with compassion to help guide clients into the journey of recovery and healing. My mission is to help you peel back the layers of protection that have kept you from living the life you want and guide you in the process of living a balanced life.
Mary Lakey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63025 (Online Only)
I am a compassionate, feeling and caring counselor who will listen to your story with empathy and sensitivity. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, depression and anger as well as many other mental health issues. I counsel all populations including underprivileged, LGBTQIA, African Americans, veterans, homeless, unemployed, abused or the ill as well as people victimized by various forms of ageism, racism, sexism and other oppressions. My goal is to tenderly and gently assist clients with their troubles and issues such that they can regain confidence and self-esteem in efforts to live productive and fulfilling lives.
I am a compassionate, feeling and caring counselor who will listen to your story with empathy and sensitivity. I work with individuals dealing with anxiety, stress, depression and anger as well as many other mental health issues. I counsel all populations including underprivileged, LGBTQIA, African Americans, veterans, homeless, unemployed, abused or the ill as well as people victimized by various forms of ageism, racism, sexism and other oppressions. My goal is to tenderly and gently assist clients with their troubles and issues such that they can regain confidence and self-esteem in efforts to live productive and fulfilling lives.
![Photo of Nicole Rae Buesse, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fde18be3-7a79-4c31-8a80-248dd75c1ac2/3/320x400.jpeg)
The first step to change is deciding you are ready. Life is beautiful, but it can also be hard. If things feel out of control, you aren't reaching your goals, or you simply need someone to talk to, therapy might be for you. In my practice, I aspire to help each of my clients better understand their struggles, set goals, and begin the often difficult work of growth through an eclectic, client-centered approach that focuses on strengths and solutions and incorporates elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
The first step to change is deciding you are ready. Life is beautiful, but it can also be hard. If things feel out of control, you aren't reaching your goals, or you simply need someone to talk to, therapy might be for you. In my practice, I aspire to help each of my clients better understand their struggles, set goals, and begin the often difficult work of growth through an eclectic, client-centered approach that focuses on strengths and solutions and incorporates elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
![Photo of Scott Moore, LCSW, CSAT, PCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffe70736-8b3b-40a5-b741-2d029884461e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Scott Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, PCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63025 (Online Only)
Sex addiction doesn't have to continue ruining your life. Life may feel hopeless, and your anxiety may be higher than you've ever felt before. Yet, it doesn't have to stay this way. My clients all have two things in common: 1) They want to be here for themselves, even when others are making them, and 2) They work to achieve their goals. They come to me usually in a state of panic or depression, or some even come in when their world is chaotic and out of control. When you're ready to tackle your issues, give me a call.
Sex addiction doesn't have to continue ruining your life. Life may feel hopeless, and your anxiety may be higher than you've ever felt before. Yet, it doesn't have to stay this way. My clients all have two things in common: 1) They want to be here for themselves, even when others are making them, and 2) They work to achieve their goals. They come to me usually in a state of panic or depression, or some even come in when their world is chaotic and out of control. When you're ready to tackle your issues, give me a call.
![Photo of Mary Downey-Jones, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a16931a6-41c9-48b0-aa4f-e776d8ead03b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mary Downey-Jones
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63038
Welcome to your new beginning! I am here to walk beside you through the healing process and to guide you towards a healthier version of yourself. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I genuinely value the importance of building rapport with clients and to support clients finding a therapist they feel is a good fit for them based on their individual treatment needs and goals. I believe in the inherent resilience of the human spirit and embrace a strength-based lens when working with individuals who have experienced trauma as well as other challenges and stressors.
Welcome to your new beginning! I am here to walk beside you through the healing process and to guide you towards a healthier version of yourself. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I genuinely value the importance of building rapport with clients and to support clients finding a therapist they feel is a good fit for them based on their individual treatment needs and goals. I believe in the inherent resilience of the human spirit and embrace a strength-based lens when working with individuals who have experienced trauma as well as other challenges and stressors.
![Photo of Susan Robson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3e4748dd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Every person has their own set of skills and their own unique challenges. Working from a foundation of respect for individual and family strengths and abilities, I can provide a comfortable place for folks to identify and explore issues that may be getting in the way of happy and healthy relationships. Issues could be life changes such as divorce or a death, struggles in school or work, or problems with friends and family. It could also be due to issues of neurodiversity which can impact communication. Together we can work to address the present day issues as well as the underlying causes.
Every person has their own set of skills and their own unique challenges. Working from a foundation of respect for individual and family strengths and abilities, I can provide a comfortable place for folks to identify and explore issues that may be getting in the way of happy and healthy relationships. Issues could be life changes such as divorce or a death, struggles in school or work, or problems with friends and family. It could also be due to issues of neurodiversity which can impact communication. Together we can work to address the present day issues as well as the underlying causes.
![Photo of Kate Ohara-Park - Counselor Kate LLC, MA, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3ed593ca-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Counselor Kate LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63005
I work with adults, teenagers and adolescents. My approach is eclectic and individualized to meet each client's needs. I am supportive but also believe that the issues that bring people to counseling are not easy ones,so I believe in challenging my clients when appropriate. I provide a caring environment where you can identify and explore the issues that are getting in the way of a more rewarding home life, career and even relationships. The goal is to help provide you with the insights and tools you need to move beyond old, limiting beliefs and behaviors.
I work with adults, teenagers and adolescents. My approach is eclectic and individualized to meet each client's needs. I am supportive but also believe that the issues that bring people to counseling are not easy ones,so I believe in challenging my clients when appropriate. I provide a caring environment where you can identify and explore the issues that are getting in the way of a more rewarding home life, career and even relationships. The goal is to help provide you with the insights and tools you need to move beyond old, limiting beliefs and behaviors.
![Photo of Deborah S Scallorn, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/496dc363-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Deborah S Scallorn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wildwood, MO 63038
Please consider allowing me to help guide you to live your life to the fullest, to live the life you have always wanted, to become all you are meant to be. Do you find that joy and happiness are missing from your life? Are negative beliefs holding you back from living the life you truly want? You do not have to live like this any longer. Let me help you discover your true potential and awaken to the life you have always imagined. A life with more happiness, joy and gratitude.
Please consider allowing me to help guide you to live your life to the fullest, to live the life you have always wanted, to become all you are meant to be. Do you find that joy and happiness are missing from your life? Are negative beliefs holding you back from living the life you truly want? You do not have to live like this any longer. Let me help you discover your true potential and awaken to the life you have always imagined. A life with more happiness, joy and gratitude.
![Photo of Laura Cook - Laura Cook Counseling, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ac228d72-2bc3-40da-baa2-897af1041c8a/1/320x400.jpeg)
Mental health therapy is able to help you in many aspects of your life. Some of those aspects might be life transitions, anxiety, depression, past trauma, and relationship issues. In the presence of a trusted therapist, you are able to discuss what might be keeping you from leading a more contented, peaceful life while working to form a deeper understanding of yourself. In therapy, we will discuss self-talk, mind-body connections, and patterns that are prevalent in your life. We will also explore past trauma that might be manifesting itself in symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
Mental health therapy is able to help you in many aspects of your life. Some of those aspects might be life transitions, anxiety, depression, past trauma, and relationship issues. In the presence of a trusted therapist, you are able to discuss what might be keeping you from leading a more contented, peaceful life while working to form a deeper understanding of yourself. In therapy, we will discuss self-talk, mind-body connections, and patterns that are prevalent in your life. We will also explore past trauma that might be manifesting itself in symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
See more therapy options for Wildwood
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Wildwood
- Ballwin
- Chesterfield
- Creve Coeur
- Ellisville
- Eureka
- Fenton
- Frontenac
- Kirkwood
- Manchester
- Town And Country
- Valley Park
- 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.