EMDR Therapists in Omaha, NE

Photo of Ann Georgina Williams - Ann's Couch, LIMHP, LADC, SAP, Counselor
Ann's Couch
Counselor, LIMHP, LADC, SAP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68134
I utilize Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Heart Centered Hypnotherapy to assist when trauma feels insurmountable.
You have likely come to this site because you want to change how you are currently experiencing life. I believe that we all reach forks in the road and circumstances make it difficult to select the path that enriches our lives. My goal is to help clients put the past where it belongs, thrive in the present and look toward the future with greater satisfaction. I will meet you where you are in life and provide a safe, trusting, and nurturing environment that promotes growth and change and move at a pace that is comfortable for you.
I utilize Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Heart Centered Hypnotherapy to assist when trauma feels insurmountable.
You have likely come to this site because you want to change how you are currently experiencing life. I believe that we all reach forks in the road and circumstances make it difficult to select the path that enriches our lives. My goal is to help clients put the past where it belongs, thrive in the present and look toward the future with greater satisfaction. I will meet you where you are in life and provide a safe, trusting, and nurturing environment that promotes growth and change and move at a pace that is comfortable for you.
(402) 807-2984 View (402) 807-2984
Photo of Amber Jurgensmeier, LIMHP, LCSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Jurgensmeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIMHP, LCSW, LADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
I’m also certified as an EMDR therapist.
I am a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP) specializing in child, adolescent therapy, and young adults. I am also a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) trained to complete juvenile drug and alcohol evaluations. I have worked with at-risk youth for over a decade and I have knowledge in navigating the juvenile justice system.
I’m also certified as an EMDR therapist.
I am a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (LIMHP) specializing in child, adolescent therapy, and young adults. I am also a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) trained to complete juvenile drug and alcohol evaluations. I have worked with at-risk youth for over a decade and I have knowledge in navigating the juvenile justice system.
(402) 718-8451 View (402) 718-8451
Photo of Candi Manchester, LIMHP, LADC, Counselor
Candi Manchester
Counselor, LIMHP, LADC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68164
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting which utilizes a brain/body approach to processing trauma.
I love dogs, have tattoos, and cuss a little. I like to think I have a good sense of humor and incorporate that when appropriate. That's me in a nutshell! We know one of the biggest factors to therapeutic success is having good rapport between client and clinician. Therapy is not 'one size fits all' and it can be frustrating and overwhelming to find that right fit. When you're asked to face some of your hardest truths, it is paramount to build a therapeutic relationship you feel comfortable with.
I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting which utilizes a brain/body approach to processing trauma.
I love dogs, have tattoos, and cuss a little. I like to think I have a good sense of humor and incorporate that when appropriate. That's me in a nutshell! We know one of the biggest factors to therapeutic success is having good rapport between client and clinician. Therapy is not 'one size fits all' and it can be frustrating and overwhelming to find that right fit. When you're asked to face some of your hardest truths, it is paramount to build a therapeutic relationship you feel comfortable with.
View
Photo of Shannon Peterson, NE-LCSW, IA-LISW, Counselor
Shannon Peterson
Counselor, NE-LCSW, IA-LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154  (Online Only)
I am currently accepting clients. EMDR trained. Are you struggling with family, friends or significant other relationships? Does it seem like you end up in the same place again? Or maybe you feel stuck, you've lost your oomph, or life is on repeat. Maybe you feel alone and that no one has your back. Somewhere along the way you lost who you were. If you are dealing with shame, substance use, toxic families and relationships, mental or emotional abuse, anxiety, depression, burnout or stress-please reach out.
I am currently accepting clients. EMDR trained. Are you struggling with family, friends or significant other relationships? Does it seem like you end up in the same place again? Or maybe you feel stuck, you've lost your oomph, or life is on repeat. Maybe you feel alone and that no one has your back. Somewhere along the way you lost who you were. If you are dealing with shame, substance use, toxic families and relationships, mental or emotional abuse, anxiety, depression, burnout or stress-please reach out.
(515) 417-2704 View (515) 417-2704
Photo of Daniel J. Stava, PLMHP, Counselor
Daniel J. Stava
Counselor, PLMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68137
EMDR Trained.
Struggling to find balance in your life? Find yourself exhausted, overwhelmed, or anxious. Too often our compounding responsibilities leave us feeling that we are inadequate, or do not have mental or physical fortitude to thrive. You are able to break free from your current cycle and develop new habits that allow you to be the best version of yourself possible...
EMDR Trained.
Struggling to find balance in your life? Find yourself exhausted, overwhelmed, or anxious. Too often our compounding responsibilities leave us feeling that we are inadequate, or do not have mental or physical fortitude to thrive. You are able to break free from your current cycle and develop new habits that allow you to be the best version of yourself possible...
(531) 228-4991 View (531) 228-4991
Photo of Christopher Michael Fenwick, LIMHP, LMHP, LADC, LPC, Counselor
Christopher Michael Fenwick
Counselor, LIMHP, LMHP, LADC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68154
I have specialized training in DBT, EMDR, Seeking Safety, and Parts Work including Ego State Therapy.
Harmony, balance, and peace of mind are things many strive for. In today's world we encounter so many ups and downs. Have you found yourself feeling burned out or trapped? Are you surrounded by unknowns, or a wave from the past that you can't seem to outrun? Have you found yourself with a sudden weight that seems too heavy to carry? You've taken the first step by opening yourself up to the possibility of counseling. You don't have to carry the weight alone. No matter the struggle you can find healing through counseling in a safe place. If you start and stay with the journey, you can find your destination.
I have specialized training in DBT, EMDR, Seeking Safety, and Parts Work including Ego State Therapy.
Harmony, balance, and peace of mind are things many strive for. In today's world we encounter so many ups and downs. Have you found yourself feeling burned out or trapped? Are you surrounded by unknowns, or a wave from the past that you can't seem to outrun? Have you found yourself with a sudden weight that seems too heavy to carry? You've taken the first step by opening yourself up to the possibility of counseling. You don't have to carry the weight alone. No matter the struggle you can find healing through counseling in a safe place. If you start and stay with the journey, you can find your destination.
(402) 647-6271 View (402) 647-6271
Photo of Shelli Reams - Hope Collaborative LLC
Hope Collaborative LLC
Independent Mental Health Practitioner
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68144
If you are looking for a specific skill we have providers trained in the Gottman Method for Couples Therapy, EMDR, AFTTA, Brainspotting, CBT, ACT, DBT, Solution Focused, Sandtray, IFS and more.
Hope Collaborative is a collection of independent providers who treat a variety of client needs such as Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Developmental Disabilities, Couples, Sex Therapy, Grief, Self-medicating and Addictions, and more. We have clinicians who treat adults and those who treat children ages 10 and up. We offer a comfortable and safe space for you or your child to work on your goals.
If you are looking for a specific skill we have providers trained in the Gottman Method for Couples Therapy, EMDR, AFTTA, Brainspotting, CBT, ACT, DBT, Solution Focused, Sandtray, IFS and more.
Hope Collaborative is a collection of independent providers who treat a variety of client needs such as Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Developmental Disabilities, Couples, Sex Therapy, Grief, Self-medicating and Addictions, and more. We have clinicians who treat adults and those who treat children ages 10 and up. We offer a comfortable and safe space for you or your child to work on your goals.
(402) 892-8164 View (402) 892-8164
Photo of Kani Rubango, MSW, LISW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kani Rubango
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68102
I specialize in trauma, and I facilitate EMDR.
I earned my Masters of Clinical Social Work from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. I am licensed therapist in both Iowa and Nebraska. I enjoy working with individuals, family, couples, and groups. I consider myself to be a client centered therapist and find it important to meet my clients where they are in their lives. My mission as a provider is to empower my clients to find their own inner strength. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field treating individuals with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem/self image, relationship and marital conflict, life adjustments and transitions, and grief and loss
I specialize in trauma, and I facilitate EMDR.
I earned my Masters of Clinical Social Work from the University of Nebraska at Omaha. I am licensed therapist in both Iowa and Nebraska. I enjoy working with individuals, family, couples, and groups. I consider myself to be a client centered therapist and find it important to meet my clients where they are in their lives. My mission as a provider is to empower my clients to find their own inner strength. I have several years of experience working in the mental health field treating individuals with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem/self image, relationship and marital conflict, life adjustments and transitions, and grief and loss
(402) 809-4908 View (402) 809-4908
Photo of Alyson Meadows, MS, LIPC, Counselor
Alyson Meadows
Counselor, MS, LIPC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68124  (Online Only)
I also am trained in EMDR and see tremendous healing of past trauma occur for my clients with this method.
I enjoy working with a variety of populations, including LGBTQ+ clients and couples who wish to strengthen their relationships. I also specialize in domestic violence and sexual trauma. In addition, I love to help my clients find their own spiritual path and life purpose, regardless of their religious affiliation. I offer clients a variety of skills with the hope of increasing their sense of self-worth, self-acceptance and deep peace.
I also am trained in EMDR and see tremendous healing of past trauma occur for my clients with this method.
I enjoy working with a variety of populations, including LGBTQ+ clients and couples who wish to strengthen their relationships. I also specialize in domestic violence and sexual trauma. In addition, I love to help my clients find their own spiritual path and life purpose, regardless of their religious affiliation. I offer clients a variety of skills with the hope of increasing their sense of self-worth, self-acceptance and deep peace.
(402) 835-6387 View (402) 835-6387
Photo of Stacey Mueller, LIMHP, Counselor
Stacey Mueller
Counselor, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
Waitlist for new clients
I use various therapeutic interventions to assist you on your journey: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Family Systems Therapy.
My approach specializes in helping you understand why relationships or other aspects of life are not functioning as you hoped. We will work together to develop a plan, repair past pains and disappointments, and help you begin to living the life you always wanted. Your story and your pain have a purpose, and your voice matters. Depression, anxiety, a persistent fear of rejection, or feeling alone and hopeless can impact all aspects of life; including relationships, marriages, jobs/careers, and children. Together we will use your strengths and wisdom to find solutions, relief, and the enjoyment you deserve.
I use various therapeutic interventions to assist you on your journey: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Brainspotting, Somatic Experiencing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Family Systems Therapy.
My approach specializes in helping you understand why relationships or other aspects of life are not functioning as you hoped. We will work together to develop a plan, repair past pains and disappointments, and help you begin to living the life you always wanted. Your story and your pain have a purpose, and your voice matters. Depression, anxiety, a persistent fear of rejection, or feeling alone and hopeless can impact all aspects of life; including relationships, marriages, jobs/careers, and children. Together we will use your strengths and wisdom to find solutions, relief, and the enjoyment you deserve.
(402) 532-1244 View (402) 532-1244
Photo of John F Granger, MS, LIMHP, LMHC, LDAC, IADC, Counselor
John F Granger
Counselor, MS, LIMHP, LMHC, LDAC, IADC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68106
I am also trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I view being a Psychotherapist as being more than simply a job, I view it as a vocation. I have worked in both residential and outpatient settings. I help individuals with symptoms and behaviors arising from anxiety, depression, psychosis, obsessions & compulsions, traumatic experiences, addictions, Personality Disorders, low self-esteem, and anger. I also help individuals cope with daily problems or stress in order to lead more productive lives. I am licensed to treat Mental Health issues, as well as Chemical Dependency issues, in the states of Nebraska & Iowa. I am currently accepting new patients (for in-office visits only).
I am also trained in Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I view being a Psychotherapist as being more than simply a job, I view it as a vocation. I have worked in both residential and outpatient settings. I help individuals with symptoms and behaviors arising from anxiety, depression, psychosis, obsessions & compulsions, traumatic experiences, addictions, Personality Disorders, low self-esteem, and anger. I also help individuals cope with daily problems or stress in order to lead more productive lives. I am licensed to treat Mental Health issues, as well as Chemical Dependency issues, in the states of Nebraska & Iowa. I am currently accepting new patients (for in-office visits only).
(531) 466-2326 View (531) 466-2326
Photo of Cyndi Ann Muhlbauer - Results Counseling Services, MA, LIMHP, Counselor
Results Counseling Services
Counselor, MA, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68124
Specializing in PTSD and Trauma, with Certifications in EMDR, Animal Assisted Therapy, TF-CBT, and FFTT, we accept most insurances, Nebraska Medicaid and sliding fee.
Wanting to feel less tense, or worried? To find or regain purpose, unruled by anxiety and fear? We can help. You don't have to feel edgy or burned out. You can learn to face challenges with confidence, peace and enjoyment. Your life can be what you hope for, not worry about. The past doesn't have to control the present or predict the future. Making mistakes, having things go wrong, and needing healing is part of life and being human. So is forgiving ourselves and trying again. When you want to drop the burdens of your past, we can help. You can't change what's happened. But you can start where you are and make a new beginning.
Specializing in PTSD and Trauma, with Certifications in EMDR, Animal Assisted Therapy, TF-CBT, and FFTT, we accept most insurances, Nebraska Medicaid and sliding fee.
Wanting to feel less tense, or worried? To find or regain purpose, unruled by anxiety and fear? We can help. You don't have to feel edgy or burned out. You can learn to face challenges with confidence, peace and enjoyment. Your life can be what you hope for, not worry about. The past doesn't have to control the present or predict the future. Making mistakes, having things go wrong, and needing healing is part of life and being human. So is forgiving ourselves and trying again. When you want to drop the burdens of your past, we can help. You can't change what's happened. But you can start where you are and make a new beginning.
(531) 201-6762 View (531) 201-6762
Photo of Scarlett K Shockley, RN-BC, LIMHP, Counselor
Scarlett K Shockley
Counselor, RN-BC, LIMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68144
Also I am level II trained in EMDR and have a lot of experience working with trauma survivors.
"Moody", "Overly Sensitive", or "Needy"- Are these words people use to describe you, or maybe how you describe yourself? Do you feel like your life is one stressful event after another? Does it seem like no one 'gets' you or people have given up on you? If you are looking for a therapist who wants to help you understand your feelings and improve your relationships, I might be the one for you.
Also I am level II trained in EMDR and have a lot of experience working with trauma survivors.
"Moody", "Overly Sensitive", or "Needy"- Are these words people use to describe you, or maybe how you describe yourself? Do you feel like your life is one stressful event after another? Does it seem like no one 'gets' you or people have given up on you? If you are looking for a therapist who wants to help you understand your feelings and improve your relationships, I might be the one for you.
(402) 382-9323 View (402) 382-9323
Photo of Teagan MacKnight, MA, LPC, LIMHP, Counselor
Teagan MacKnight
Counselor, MA, LPC, LIMHP
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, adjustment/life-cycle transitions, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and treating trauma utilizing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy.
Hello, I am happy you are here. My name is Teagan MacKnight, a Clinical Mental Health Therapist with MH Counseling, LLC. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their journey towards healing, growth, and freedom. I work primarily with individuals, specializing in working with middle schoolers, college aged individuals, and adults. I see each client as an individual and find that an integrative, client-centered approach is necessary to best serve each client. Together, we'll work towards your goals, fostering growth and health in your life.
I specialize in treating anxiety, depression, adjustment/life-cycle transitions, self-esteem, relationship difficulties, and treating trauma utilizing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy.
Hello, I am happy you are here. My name is Teagan MacKnight, a Clinical Mental Health Therapist with MH Counseling, LLC. I am passionate about helping individuals navigate their journey towards healing, growth, and freedom. I work primarily with individuals, specializing in working with middle schoolers, college aged individuals, and adults. I see each client as an individual and find that an integrative, client-centered approach is necessary to best serve each client. Together, we'll work towards your goals, fostering growth and health in your life.
(402) 741-6310 View (402) 741-6310
Photo of John Duggins, MS, LIMHP, LADC, Counselor
John Duggins
Counselor, MS, LIMHP, LADC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68127
I draw from multiple modalities including Cognitive Therapies, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR and other Emotionally focused and Attachment focused approaches.
I believe in finding and removing barriers that keep us from connecting fully with ourselves and others. I consider it an honor and privilege to be with you on your journey. Whether we are addressing trauma, behavioral concerns, addictions, depression, relationship concerns etc. You can expect a warm, empathetic and safe environment to allow your process to unfold.
I draw from multiple modalities including Cognitive Therapies, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR and other Emotionally focused and Attachment focused approaches.
I believe in finding and removing barriers that keep us from connecting fully with ourselves and others. I consider it an honor and privilege to be with you on your journey. Whether we are addressing trauma, behavioral concerns, addictions, depression, relationship concerns etc. You can expect a warm, empathetic and safe environment to allow your process to unfold.
(402) 207-9441 View (402) 207-9441
Photo of Zhomontee Watson, LIMHP, NCC, Counselor
Zhomontee Watson
Counselor, LIMHP, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68105  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR trained therapist who works with emerging adults and adults 18 years of age and older with mild to severe mental illness.
Are you questioning where you are in life? Do you need support identifying who you are and where you are trying to go? Are you satisfied with how you are navigating your personal and professional relationships? Are you ready to begin processing some of the people, places, and things that you have lost? If any of this resonates, lets get started!
I am an EMDR trained therapist who works with emerging adults and adults 18 years of age and older with mild to severe mental illness.
Are you questioning where you are in life? Do you need support identifying who you are and where you are trying to go? Are you satisfied with how you are navigating your personal and professional relationships? Are you ready to begin processing some of the people, places, and things that you have lost? If any of this resonates, lets get started!
(402) 576-5978 View (402) 576-5978
Photo of Ivy Slepicka, MA, LIMHP, CPC, Counselor
Ivy Slepicka
Counselor, MA, LIMHP, CPC
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68137
I focus on Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, and Acceptance and Commitment techniques, along with EMDR to assist my clients in working through their individual concerns.
Life can be difficult to navigate. Working a demanding job, managing a household, engaging in a relationship, caring for children, maintaining a social life, addressing physical health concerns, and so many other daily pressures can overwhelm anyone, leaving you to question who you are and what your purpose is in this world. My goal is to help you, your relationships, and your family to grow and thrive. By building upon your individual strengths, we can work together to find solutions that work for you to overcome the challenges you are facing and rediscover who you are as an individual.
I focus on Cognitive Behavioral, Dialectical Behavioral, and Acceptance and Commitment techniques, along with EMDR to assist my clients in working through their individual concerns.
Life can be difficult to navigate. Working a demanding job, managing a household, engaging in a relationship, caring for children, maintaining a social life, addressing physical health concerns, and so many other daily pressures can overwhelm anyone, leaving you to question who you are and what your purpose is in this world. My goal is to help you, your relationships, and your family to grow and thrive. By building upon your individual strengths, we can work together to find solutions that work for you to overcome the challenges you are facing and rediscover who you are as an individual.
(402) 389-4129 View (402) 389-4129
Photo of Carrie Gobel, LIMHP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Gobel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LIMHP, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68114
I enjoy serving adults and adolescents and working collaboratively with individuals and families to improve emotional health and overall well-being. My role is to gain a true understanding of each client's goals and challenges and assist in growth and healing. I use a client-centered approach with each individual and draw on various treatment modalities to address obstacles to change. I am skilled in the use of psychodynamic therapy, brainspotting, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, sand tray therapy, and other treatment models.
I enjoy serving adults and adolescents and working collaboratively with individuals and families to improve emotional health and overall well-being. My role is to gain a true understanding of each client's goals and challenges and assist in growth and healing. I use a client-centered approach with each individual and draw on various treatment modalities to address obstacles to change. I am skilled in the use of psychodynamic therapy, brainspotting, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, sand tray therapy, and other treatment models.
(531) 208-0861 View (531) 208-0861
Louise E Jacobs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Omaha, NE 68154
I am an EMDR trained therapist with nearly 30 years of experience helping people make the changes they want to make in their lives.
If you have experienced a big life transition or something that was devastating to you, you already know that those disruptions can negatively impact your sleep, your relationships, your work/productivity, your mood, and your physical health among other things. Distress like that can cause you to feel depressed, anxious and misunderstood. You might feel like you are always waiting for the other shoe to drop.
I am an EMDR trained therapist with nearly 30 years of experience helping people make the changes they want to make in their lives.
If you have experienced a big life transition or something that was devastating to you, you already know that those disruptions can negatively impact your sleep, your relationships, your work/productivity, your mood, and your physical health among other things. Distress like that can cause you to feel depressed, anxious and misunderstood. You might feel like you are always waiting for the other shoe to drop.
(402) 576-4910 View (402) 576-4910
Photo of Heather Binns, LIMPH
Heather Binns
LIMPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Omaha, NE 68102  (Online Only)
She has specialized training in treating PTSD ( EMDR).
Heather Binns, LIMHP is licensed in the state of Nebraska as a Certified Professional Counselor (426) and a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (887). She holds a Bachelor's Degree with high honors in Psychology from the University of Saskatchewan, Canada and a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Chadron State College in Nebraska. She is also a certified life/care coach. Heather has been a therapist for over 30 years and has provided individual and group therapy in a number of settings including agency based, private practice, and hospital based IOPs. She is a life/care coach to companies such as Amazon.
She has specialized training in treating PTSD ( EMDR).
Heather Binns, LIMHP is licensed in the state of Nebraska as a Certified Professional Counselor (426) and a Licensed Independent Mental Health Practitioner (887). She holds a Bachelor's Degree with high honors in Psychology from the University of Saskatchewan, Canada and a Master's Degree in Mental Health Counseling from Chadron State College in Nebraska. She is also a certified life/care coach. Heather has been a therapist for over 30 years and has provided individual and group therapy in a number of settings including agency based, private practice, and hospital based IOPs. She is a life/care coach to companies such as Amazon.
(402) 542-5980 View (402) 542-5980
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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.