EMDR Therapists in Libby, MT

Photo of Heather Marie Childers Johns - Heather Johns, LCSW Cognitive Healing Solutions, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Johns, LCSW Cognitive Healing Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Libby, MT 59923
Evidence based therapies include; EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy for Depression, Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Depression, Insomnia, Chronic Pain and Anxiety.
Are you at a place in your life where you feel overwhelmed, unmotivated or just wondering what's happening to you or your relationship? Do you have personal, relationship, work or life transitions that feel overwhelming and are having difficulty resolving? I provide a safe, supportive, non judgmental environment to assist you in resolving these issues. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples and families in a variety of areas including; trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, anger management and LGBTQIA issues. My goal is to provide you the tools and support needed to reach your goal.
Evidence based therapies include; EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Interpersonal Therapy for Depression, Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Depression, Insomnia, Chronic Pain and Anxiety.
Are you at a place in your life where you feel overwhelmed, unmotivated or just wondering what's happening to you or your relationship? Do you have personal, relationship, work or life transitions that feel overwhelming and are having difficulty resolving? I provide a safe, supportive, non judgmental environment to assist you in resolving these issues. I specialize in working with adolescents, adults, couples and families in a variety of areas including; trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, insomnia, anger management and LGBTQIA issues. My goal is to provide you the tools and support needed to reach your goal.
(406) 215-2243 View (406) 215-2243

Online Therapists

Photo of Justin Gable, MA, LCPC, LAC, Counselor
Justin Gable
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Whitefish, MT 59937
I utilize empirically based models in therapy including Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) for distressed couples, EMDR therapy for trauma and adverse life experience resolution, and 12-step based counseling for Addictions.
Life is difficult--at times even overwhelming. You do not have to do it alone, but sometimes life situations prevent connecting in the ways you would like. We each have a unique story filled with highlights and lowlights. At times, you may find yourself creating ruts or being stuck in the trenches, only to find yourself there with a lack of hope. Let's find a path out of these ruts together by creating a more complete story allowing you to live most fully in the present.
I utilize empirically based models in therapy including Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) for distressed couples, EMDR therapy for trauma and adverse life experience resolution, and 12-step based counseling for Addictions.
Life is difficult--at times even overwhelming. You do not have to do it alone, but sometimes life situations prevent connecting in the ways you would like. We each have a unique story filled with highlights and lowlights. At times, you may find yourself creating ruts or being stuck in the trenches, only to find yourself there with a lack of hope. Let's find a path out of these ruts together by creating a more complete story allowing you to live most fully in the present.
(406) 412-7812 View (406) 412-7812
Photo of Samuel Ore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samuel Ore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Polson, MT 59860
I'm a certified EMDR consultant and heavily informed by my training eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Montanans face unique challenges related to geography, a culture of individualism, intergenerational patterns of trauma, and a changing economy. I’ve spent my career developing evidence-based skills to meet the needs of my neighbors. This starts with building a straightforward relationship as a foundation for work that attends to the needs of our physiology, psychology, spirituality, and our community. Therapy is about cultivating ongoing processes of resilience that continue outside of the office and everyday I do my best to work myself out of a job.
I'm a certified EMDR consultant and heavily informed by my training eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), interpersonal neurobiology, attachment theory, and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
Montanans face unique challenges related to geography, a culture of individualism, intergenerational patterns of trauma, and a changing economy. I’ve spent my career developing evidence-based skills to meet the needs of my neighbors. This starts with building a straightforward relationship as a foundation for work that attends to the needs of our physiology, psychology, spirituality, and our community. Therapy is about cultivating ongoing processes of resilience that continue outside of the office and everyday I do my best to work myself out of a job.
(406) 215-4767 View (406) 215-4767
Photo of Jennifer Stebbins, LCPC, MA, Counselor
Jennifer Stebbins
Counselor, LCPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kalispell, MT 59901
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences.
I believe individuals are inherently motivated towards health and well-being.  When we work from a place of compassion, curiosity and vulnerability, I believe meaningful, lasting change is possible. I find that when we experience safety even when things are difficult that healing happens and changes our outlook on ourselves and the world.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences.
I believe individuals are inherently motivated towards health and well-being.  When we work from a place of compassion, curiosity and vulnerability, I believe meaningful, lasting change is possible. I find that when we experience safety even when things are difficult that healing happens and changes our outlook on ourselves and the world.
(406) 407-9318 View (406) 407-9318
Photo of Melissa L Burns, LCPC, Counselor
Melissa L Burns
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59901
I am trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems Level 1, CBT, Mindfulness Meditation, and Grief and Loss.
I am happy to journey with you as you deal with anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, spiritual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and trauma. I can help you clarify what you are actually seeking, and possibly what you did not receive that you may have needed as you grew up. We often cannot see those things ourselves, and having someone outside of our regular relationships can provide unexpected insight and clarity.
I am trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems Level 1, CBT, Mindfulness Meditation, and Grief and Loss.
I am happy to journey with you as you deal with anxiety, depression, grief, life changes, spiritual abuse, narcissistic abuse, and trauma. I can help you clarify what you are actually seeking, and possibly what you did not receive that you may have needed as you grew up. We often cannot see those things ourselves, and having someone outside of our regular relationships can provide unexpected insight and clarity.
(406) 743-3924 View (406) 743-3924
Photo of Anne Higgins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Higgins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitefish, MT 59937
I'm trained in various modalities, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, HeartMath, and Somatic Attachment.
My therapeutic practice is dedicated to serving a diverse clientele, including highly sensitive individuals, neurodivergent minds, artists, introverts, intuitives and those who feel like outsiders. I firmly believe that everyone deserves a place in this world, and my approach is centered on affirming queer and alternative identities. In sessions, I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My style is characterized by a balance of casualness and challenge, infused with humor and real-life examples.
I'm trained in various modalities, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, HeartMath, and Somatic Attachment.
My therapeutic practice is dedicated to serving a diverse clientele, including highly sensitive individuals, neurodivergent minds, artists, introverts, intuitives and those who feel like outsiders. I firmly believe that everyone deserves a place in this world, and my approach is centered on affirming queer and alternative identities. In sessions, I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere where clients feel safe to explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences. My style is characterized by a balance of casualness and challenge, infused with humor and real-life examples.
(406) 792-2348 View (406) 792-2348
Photo of Hayley Allen-Blakney, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hayley Allen-Blakney
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Thompson Falls, MT 59873
Waitlist for new clients
I pull from a wide range of techniques including internal family systems, EMDR, CBT and DBT and integrate these approaches in trauma work and anxiety treatment.
I'm glad to have you visit my page. My philosophy is to meet each person where they are and to provide support in navigating their journey. I work from the understanding our early attachment experiences impact us throughout our life journey. Working with anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma is my passion. I have a holistic approach and look at all the areas of a person's life (such as medical needs, finances and other environmental factors) in determining how to best support them. I am evidence-based and utilize research and ongoing training to shape my practice.
I pull from a wide range of techniques including internal family systems, EMDR, CBT and DBT and integrate these approaches in trauma work and anxiety treatment.
I'm glad to have you visit my page. My philosophy is to meet each person where they are and to provide support in navigating their journey. I work from the understanding our early attachment experiences impact us throughout our life journey. Working with anxiety disorders, PTSD and trauma is my passion. I have a holistic approach and look at all the areas of a person's life (such as medical needs, finances and other environmental factors) in determining how to best support them. I am evidence-based and utilize research and ongoing training to shape my practice.
(406) 412-1947 View (406) 412-1947
Photo of Crystal Stone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Crystal Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59903
I specialize in trauma recovery using EMDR thearpy and skills training combination.
Clients seek me when they want to feel relief from trauma, need someone who deeply understands the pain and the recovery process, and often have exhausted other options. Although, helping people recover from the negative effects of trauma is what I am most experienced at and successful doing, I also enjoy helping people navigate the difficulties of life effectively. If you are struggling with relationships, painful emotions, feeling like there is no hope, or like you're not getting anywhere in life, consider talking with me and let's see if I can help.
I specialize in trauma recovery using EMDR thearpy and skills training combination.
Clients seek me when they want to feel relief from trauma, need someone who deeply understands the pain and the recovery process, and often have exhausted other options. Although, helping people recover from the negative effects of trauma is what I am most experienced at and successful doing, I also enjoy helping people navigate the difficulties of life effectively. If you are struggling with relationships, painful emotions, feeling like there is no hope, or like you're not getting anywhere in life, consider talking with me and let's see if I can help.
(406) 416-5063 View (406) 416-5063
Photo of Dr. Samantha Kinkaid Phd, PhD, Pre-Licensed Professional
Dr. Samantha Kinkaid Phd
Pre-Licensed Professional, PhD
Not Verified Not Verified
Whitefish, MT 59937
Evidence-based models are used with all clients. EMDR, Brainspotting and neurobiological therapies are utilized for resolution of trauma and adverse life experiences. Applied Positive Psychology, CBT, EFT, mindfulness practices, and strengths-based approaches are used with individuals and couples for reducing anxiety, depression, and conflict, while improving communication skills, awareness, and overall health and well-being.
Evidence-based models are used with all clients. EMDR, Brainspotting and neurobiological therapies are utilized for resolution of trauma and adverse life experiences. Applied Positive Psychology, CBT, EFT, mindfulness practices, and strengths-based approaches are used with individuals and couples for reducing anxiety, depression, and conflict, while improving communication skills, awareness, and overall health and well-being.
(406) 282-8216 View (406) 282-8216
Photo of Katie Bateman, LPCC, Counselor
Katie Bateman
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Polson, MT 59860
I practice from an attachment theory perspective incorporating EMDR, CBT, ACT and Psychodynamic interventions.
Do you feel overwhelmed by recent changes or the everyday stresses of life, parenting or your career? Have you noticed that you find it hard to be present with your loved ones or at work? Have you experienced trauma that may have had an impact on your ability to function regardless of how hard you feel like you are working towards healing. It is my job to walk along side you and facilitate true healing, utilizing your inherent strengths, and building on those to create lasting change in your life.
I practice from an attachment theory perspective incorporating EMDR, CBT, ACT and Psychodynamic interventions.
Do you feel overwhelmed by recent changes or the everyday stresses of life, parenting or your career? Have you noticed that you find it hard to be present with your loved ones or at work? Have you experienced trauma that may have had an impact on your ability to function regardless of how hard you feel like you are working towards healing. It is my job to walk along side you and facilitate true healing, utilizing your inherent strengths, and building on those to create lasting change in your life.
(815) 451-9393 View (815) 451-9393
Photo of Brianna Brooks, MSW, SWLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brianna Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, SWLC
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59901
My primary training is in EMDR, but I am also trained in DBT and TF-CBT.
The world we live in is not easy. Life is not easy, it can be very hard. What is easy, is to feel lost and unheard, to feel unloved and not enough. You are never too much, and always enough. I'm here to listen to you and your truth; You are the expert in your own experiences. I want to be on this path of self discovery and help with any past, present, and future challenges/experiences. I'd hope to create a safe and welcoming space on this journey for you. This first step is the hardest part.
My primary training is in EMDR, but I am also trained in DBT and TF-CBT.
The world we live in is not easy. Life is not easy, it can be very hard. What is easy, is to feel lost and unheard, to feel unloved and not enough. You are never too much, and always enough. I'm here to listen to you and your truth; You are the expert in your own experiences. I want to be on this path of self discovery and help with any past, present, and future challenges/experiences. I'd hope to create a safe and welcoming space on this journey for you. This first step is the hardest part.
(406) 812-4276 View (406) 812-4276
Photo of Clay Ross, LCPC, Counselor
Clay Ross
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59901
I have aided people in the healing process through the eclectic use of Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and EMDR.
Let me help you heal and grow. Life presents us as individuals, or couples, with many ongoing challenges; careers, raising children, medical issues, trauma, grief. These may all add up to emotional stressors that make it difficult to simply function as human beings. When we become unaware of our emotional state and ignore caring for ourselves, emotionally, physically, spiritually, we may become stuck and are unable to function at a level that is our best selves.
I have aided people in the healing process through the eclectic use of Person Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and EMDR.
Let me help you heal and grow. Life presents us as individuals, or couples, with many ongoing challenges; careers, raising children, medical issues, trauma, grief. These may all add up to emotional stressors that make it difficult to simply function as human beings. When we become unaware of our emotional state and ignore caring for ourselves, emotionally, physically, spiritually, we may become stuck and are unable to function at a level that is our best selves.
(406) 506-5587 View (406) 506-5587
Photo of Melissa Hartman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Hartman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Whitefish, MT 59937
com where you will find more information about my practice as well as the EMDR work that I offer.
My approach is founded on building a strong client/therapist relationship and looking at all facets of one's life to discover opportunities for healing and growth. Particular focus is placed on identifying the false narratives that contribute to suffering and get in the way of our happiness and wellbeing. Mindfulness work, EFT, CBT and especially EMDR can be powerful tools in identifying these narratives and bringing about positive change.
com where you will find more information about my practice as well as the EMDR work that I offer.
My approach is founded on building a strong client/therapist relationship and looking at all facets of one's life to discover opportunities for healing and growth. Particular focus is placed on identifying the false narratives that contribute to suffering and get in the way of our happiness and wellbeing. Mindfulness work, EFT, CBT and especially EMDR can be powerful tools in identifying these narratives and bringing about positive change.
(406) 412-6881 View (406) 412-6881
Photo of Marie Le Moyne, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marie Le Moyne
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Whitefish, MT 59937
EMDR and FLASH are also great tools for processing tough events without needing to tell the story.
You tried to give it some time but the struggle continues. Thoughts and feelings are replayed over and over and you doubt things will ever get better...Well, I am here to help you find new ways, help you clear your own path toward the life you want. It really is possible. Actually, I believe that by looking for a counselor you’re already making things happen! My goal is for you to walk out of my office with a sense of self-trust and a clear direction. What is my style? Think Collaboration and Guidance with an open mind. A focus on your needs and goals while honoring your style, limits, and very own pace.
EMDR and FLASH are also great tools for processing tough events without needing to tell the story.
You tried to give it some time but the struggle continues. Thoughts and feelings are replayed over and over and you doubt things will ever get better...Well, I am here to help you find new ways, help you clear your own path toward the life you want. It really is possible. Actually, I believe that by looking for a counselor you’re already making things happen! My goal is for you to walk out of my office with a sense of self-trust and a clear direction. What is my style? Think Collaboration and Guidance with an open mind. A focus on your needs and goals while honoring your style, limits, and very own pace.
(406) 334-2438 View (406) 334-2438
Photo of Shelly May - Mindful Connections Counseling, LLC, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindful Connections Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59901
She has worked with diverse ages providing CBT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, Grief and loss counseling and substance use disorder treatment.
My approach to therapy is to offer compassion and insight around the issue(s) that interfere with your life satisfaction or cause distress in your life. I am trained to offer you ways of seeing and resolving problems using therapy models that have proved to be helpful for others. Additionally, I will endeavor to encourage and support your personal strengths and the skills you already have in our work together. ​
She has worked with diverse ages providing CBT, DBT, trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, Grief and loss counseling and substance use disorder treatment.
My approach to therapy is to offer compassion and insight around the issue(s) that interfere with your life satisfaction or cause distress in your life. I am trained to offer you ways of seeing and resolving problems using therapy models that have proved to be helpful for others. Additionally, I will endeavor to encourage and support your personal strengths and the skills you already have in our work together. ​
(406) 344-1277 View (406) 344-1277
Photo of Deborah Ann Bressler, MA, LCPC, LAC, LMFT, SAP, Counselor
Deborah Ann Bressler
Counselor, MA, LCPC, LAC, LMFT, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rexford, MT 59930  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and utilize other effective therapeutic approaches that will assist you in living the life you imagine for yourself.
Are you waking up at night worrying about problems in your life or what is going on in the world? Do you feel that you "are not good enough" or "lovable enough"? Everyone has concerns in their life and learning to deal with them in a healthy way eliminates a need to turn to behaviors that cause more problems. Working with an empathetic and compassionate person helps you take down the barriers and look at the possibilities in life. I have learned, on a personal level, that I can change old unhealthy behaviors for new healthy ones.
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and utilize other effective therapeutic approaches that will assist you in living the life you imagine for yourself.
Are you waking up at night worrying about problems in your life or what is going on in the world? Do you feel that you "are not good enough" or "lovable enough"? Everyone has concerns in their life and learning to deal with them in a healthy way eliminates a need to turn to behaviors that cause more problems. Working with an empathetic and compassionate person helps you take down the barriers and look at the possibilities in life. I have learned, on a personal level, that I can change old unhealthy behaviors for new healthy ones.
(406) 962-1513 View (406) 962-1513
Photo of Rachel Rollins, LCPC, CMCHC, MA, Counselor
Rachel Rollins
Counselor, LCPC, CMCHC, MA
Verified Verified
Whitefish, MT 59937  (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with people who are in need of surrendering old coping skills and behaviors that no longer serve them. This may be challenging those "old" thought patterns when they arise, or allowing space for a "new" point of view or voice to be heard. The therapeutic relationship should be a place where one can practice setting boundaries, empowering themselves, and self advocating. My practice includes an integrative and somatic psychotherapy approach. Modalities include EMDR, CBT, attachment theory, neurodevelopment and psycho-education, and somatic techniques.
I have a passion for working with people who are in need of surrendering old coping skills and behaviors that no longer serve them. This may be challenging those "old" thought patterns when they arise, or allowing space for a "new" point of view or voice to be heard. The therapeutic relationship should be a place where one can practice setting boundaries, empowering themselves, and self advocating. My practice includes an integrative and somatic psychotherapy approach. Modalities include EMDR, CBT, attachment theory, neurodevelopment and psycho-education, and somatic techniques.
(406) 629-1589 View (406) 629-1589
Photo of Todd W Cardin, MSW, LCSW, LAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Todd W Cardin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LAC
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59901  (Online Only)
I am also a formally trained practitioner of EMDR--a therapy modality recognized by best-practice standards as an extremely effective treatment for trauma.
I have worked for three decades with individuals seeking to overcome a wide variety of issues related to addiction, depression, anxiety, establishing a sense of identity and purpose that feels good to them, forming healthy habits, achieving intimacy and maintaining relationships, attaining life goals, and overcoming many forms of trauma. I have worked with adolescents, adults, families, couples, combat veterans, professional athletes, medical professionals, as well as adolescents and adults with diverse ethnic, indigenous, sexual, gender, and cultural identities. It is such an honor to assist in the discovery of personal truths.
I am also a formally trained practitioner of EMDR--a therapy modality recognized by best-practice standards as an extremely effective treatment for trauma.
I have worked for three decades with individuals seeking to overcome a wide variety of issues related to addiction, depression, anxiety, establishing a sense of identity and purpose that feels good to them, forming healthy habits, achieving intimacy and maintaining relationships, attaining life goals, and overcoming many forms of trauma. I have worked with adolescents, adults, families, couples, combat veterans, professional athletes, medical professionals, as well as adolescents and adults with diverse ethnic, indigenous, sexual, gender, and cultural identities. It is such an honor to assist in the discovery of personal truths.
(406) 607-6339 View (406) 607-6339
Photo of Rob Gordon, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rob Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia Falls, MT 59912
I utilize EMDR as it is widely considered, and supported by much research, to be the best approach for treating trauma.
Therapy is a cooperative journey forward. Therapy is a process of knowing ourselves in full honesty and understanding our connection with self and others. Trauma, depression and anxiety are common and none of us are immune. All of us have the potential to become strong in the spots where we feel weak, or as Hemingway put it, "The world breaks everyone, and afterword, many are strong in the broken places". The body and mind seek to heal, mend, and find balance. This is a natural process that needs cultivation to be brought to fruition.
I utilize EMDR as it is widely considered, and supported by much research, to be the best approach for treating trauma.
Therapy is a cooperative journey forward. Therapy is a process of knowing ourselves in full honesty and understanding our connection with self and others. Trauma, depression and anxiety are common and none of us are immune. All of us have the potential to become strong in the spots where we feel weak, or as Hemingway put it, "The world breaks everyone, and afterword, many are strong in the broken places". The body and mind seek to heal, mend, and find balance. This is a natural process that needs cultivation to be brought to fruition.
(406) 892-3208 View (406) 892-3208
Photo of Brittni Funderburk - Dr. Brittni Funderburk, PsyD, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Brittni Funderburk, PsyD
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kalispell, MT 59901
Waitlist for new clients
Therapeutic issues I commonly work with are trauma recovery (EMDR), anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem building, life changes, problematic relationships, and meaning-making.
My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training and experience, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins, and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that lead to more satisfaction and fulfillment in life . My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem, pride, and resiliency.
Therapeutic issues I commonly work with are trauma recovery (EMDR), anxiety, depression, grief and loss, self-esteem building, life changes, problematic relationships, and meaning-making.
My approach is empathic, direct, and thoughtful. Given I have a wide background in my training and experience, I adapt my therapeutic approach to your needs. I find that effective therapy is a collaborative approach where we work together to understand your concerns, their origins, and most importantly what can be done to bring about both the internal and behavioral changes that lead to more satisfaction and fulfillment in life . My goal in therapy is to help integrate your shame and vulnerabilities into a healthy identity grounded in self-esteem, pride, and resiliency.
(406) 296-5578 View (406) 296-5578
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.