EMDR Therapists in Bedford, NH
![Photo of Christine McGuire, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/feae33ce-7878-4a1d-bf6d-85151bb256a5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Christine has worked for more than 20 years in the field and her experiences include working in hospice, with the homeless, with LBGTQ+ clients, in community mental health, in an EMDR specialty practice, in an ALS/MDA clinic, and with HIV positive adolescents at a nonprofit organization.
Christine McGuire is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2023. She earned her BFA at ColbySawyer College and her MSW at California State University. Christine is trained in various evidenced based therapeutic treatment modalities. She embraces diversity and the unique experience of each client she meets. Christine believes that therapy should honor the individual, it is collaborative, it is supportive, and can be empowering.
Christine has worked for more than 20 years in the field and her experiences include working in hospice, with the homeless, with LBGTQ+ clients, in community mental health, in an EMDR specialty practice, in an ALS/MDA clinic, and with HIV positive adolescents at a nonprofit organization.
Christine McGuire is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in New Hampshire who has been practicing since 2023. She earned her BFA at ColbySawyer College and her MSW at California State University. Christine is trained in various evidenced based therapeutic treatment modalities. She embraces diversity and the unique experience of each client she meets. Christine believes that therapy should honor the individual, it is collaborative, it is supportive, and can be empowering.
![Photo of Nicole Ward, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/62a9e48f-9b41-4a81-aca8-a97b26d68df2/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use mindfulness, other science based techniques and I am EMDR trained.
Are you struggling with stress and feeling overwhelmed with life? Need help in figuring out how to practice self care, solve problems or manage frustrations in a way that feels good for you? I offer supportive, non-judgmental guidance to work through problems and help symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma or grief.
I use mindfulness, other science based techniques and I am EMDR trained.
Are you struggling with stress and feeling overwhelmed with life? Need help in figuring out how to practice self care, solve problems or manage frustrations in a way that feels good for you? I offer supportive, non-judgmental guidance to work through problems and help symptoms of anxiety, depression, trauma or grief.
![Photo of Becky Glaze - True North Healing Center, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/97987b30-93e1-44ca-96d1-5b2759d52947/2/320x400.jpeg)
We use evidence-based strategies such as EMDR, CBT, MI, Group Yoga Therapy, & more to help guide you through the healing process.
You must find the place inside yourself where nothing is impossible - Deepak Chopra. Healing emotional wounds is no easy feat and it takes bravery to initiate the process of healing. Whether it is PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use, Eating Disorders, or more, you are no longer alone and therapists at True North Healing Center are here to help guide you to a more healed version of yourself, the true you. To learn more about our therapists please visit www.truenorthhealingcenter.com or contact us via this page!
We use evidence-based strategies such as EMDR, CBT, MI, Group Yoga Therapy, & more to help guide you through the healing process.
You must find the place inside yourself where nothing is impossible - Deepak Chopra. Healing emotional wounds is no easy feat and it takes bravery to initiate the process of healing. Whether it is PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Substance Use, Eating Disorders, or more, you are no longer alone and therapists at True North Healing Center are here to help guide you to a more healed version of yourself, the true you. To learn more about our therapists please visit www.truenorthhealingcenter.com or contact us via this page!
![Photo of Emily A Eaton - Southern New Hampshire EMDR & Counseling Services, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52dcfcb2-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Southern New Hampshire EMDR & Counseling Services
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Bedford, NH 03110
EMDR therapy relieves symptoms of adverse experiences by changing the way memories are stored in your brain and body.
Are you living the life you want? Having difficulty managing stress and emotions? Do you worry excessively? Have you spent hours talking about your problems with little relief? Maybe you’re experiencing intrusive thoughts or memories, ruminating, or overreacting. Persistent negative beliefs about yourself might be keeping you stuck. Difficulty setting boundaries and people-pleasing is a common complaint. Perhaps you've experienced physical or emotional abuse in relationships. These things make it hard to enjoy life and relationships. Psychological symptoms are often the result of unprocessed memories and experiences.
EMDR therapy relieves symptoms of adverse experiences by changing the way memories are stored in your brain and body.
Are you living the life you want? Having difficulty managing stress and emotions? Do you worry excessively? Have you spent hours talking about your problems with little relief? Maybe you’re experiencing intrusive thoughts or memories, ruminating, or overreacting. Persistent negative beliefs about yourself might be keeping you stuck. Difficulty setting boundaries and people-pleasing is a common complaint. Perhaps you've experienced physical or emotional abuse in relationships. These things make it hard to enjoy life and relationships. Psychological symptoms are often the result of unprocessed memories and experiences.
![Photo of Carolyn Breaud, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/30c4d457-4417-4138-90fc-4fd15779c4b0/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am an interactive, solution-focused, strength-based therapist, who is trained in EMDR (specialized trauma treatment) and certified in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (treatment modality for mood disorders, personality disorders and suicidal ideation).
I’m a trauma specialist trained and experienced in treating severe PTSD, mood disorders and suicidal ideation. I love working with first responders, health care workers, victims of crime, survivors of natural disasters, and survivors of abuse or neglect. My interactive, laid-back, upfront style helps my clients feel at ease. Alfred Adler, an early pioneer of psychotherapy says, "Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another and feeling with the heart of another." This best describes my approach to therapy. I have a natural authentic interest in the stories of others and the experiences they bring in.
I am an interactive, solution-focused, strength-based therapist, who is trained in EMDR (specialized trauma treatment) and certified in Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (treatment modality for mood disorders, personality disorders and suicidal ideation).
I’m a trauma specialist trained and experienced in treating severe PTSD, mood disorders and suicidal ideation. I love working with first responders, health care workers, victims of crime, survivors of natural disasters, and survivors of abuse or neglect. My interactive, laid-back, upfront style helps my clients feel at ease. Alfred Adler, an early pioneer of psychotherapy says, "Empathy is seeing with the eyes of another, listening with the ears of another and feeling with the heart of another." This best describes my approach to therapy. I have a natural authentic interest in the stories of others and the experiences they bring in.
![Photo of Becky Glaze, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1f2163d-52e4-4e79-85df-e12274412db9/2/320x400.jpeg)
I use evidence-based strategies such as EMDR, CBT, & Teach Group Yoga Therapy to help guide you through the healing process.
You must find the place inside yourself where nothing is impossible. - Deepak Chopra. You are experiencing unpleasant symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and or other mental health disorders, and at this point it is weighing you down and getting in the way of how you want to live your life. Your mental health is impacting how you want to connect with yourself and connect with the world around you. You want to experience positive emotions, but those have been dulled down and painful emotions have taken over. You are noticing your physical health is being impacted by your mental health. At this point you don't know where to turn.
I use evidence-based strategies such as EMDR, CBT, & Teach Group Yoga Therapy to help guide you through the healing process.
You must find the place inside yourself where nothing is impossible. - Deepak Chopra. You are experiencing unpleasant symptoms of anxiety, depression, PTSD, and or other mental health disorders, and at this point it is weighing you down and getting in the way of how you want to live your life. Your mental health is impacting how you want to connect with yourself and connect with the world around you. You want to experience positive emotions, but those have been dulled down and painful emotions have taken over. You are noticing your physical health is being impacted by your mental health. At this point you don't know where to turn.
![Photo of Judith Lambert-Messier, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e6787129-71c9-47c3-98b5-0fef70fb2ead/1/320x400.jpeg)
Judith Lambert-Messier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, NH 03110 (Online Only)
Judith Lambert is a Certified EMDR therapist, specializing in the treatment of trauma, PTSD and anxiety. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) is an extensively researched (evidence-based) therapy that treats the source of one’s current mental health symptoms but differs from traditional talk therapy. It provides an internal healing process where the patient uses visualization, while also engaging in bilateral stimulation (visual eye movements and synchronized audio tones). There is less talk to allow for more internal processing. And it is highly adaptable to today's telehealth modality.
Judith Lambert is a Certified EMDR therapist, specializing in the treatment of trauma, PTSD and anxiety. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) is an extensively researched (evidence-based) therapy that treats the source of one’s current mental health symptoms but differs from traditional talk therapy. It provides an internal healing process where the patient uses visualization, while also engaging in bilateral stimulation (visual eye movements and synchronized audio tones). There is less talk to allow for more internal processing. And it is highly adaptable to today's telehealth modality.
![Photo of Michele M Brannan, LCMHC, MA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/44d0e17f-b2b2-47ab-86b9-80ae31c8ac3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
My specialty has been EMDR since 1994.
I am interested in working with individuals who are motivated to transform their life by being willing to look honestly at themselves and make the changes necessary to do so.
My specialty has been EMDR since 1994.
I am interested in working with individuals who are motivated to transform their life by being willing to look honestly at themselves and make the changes necessary to do so.
![Photo of Taylor Barrett, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/28846e1d-3a03-4ef7-ba55-05aa4909649d/1/320x400.jpeg)
EMDR and Parts Work utilize your body’s natural healing abilities to process past traumas and harmonize different aspects of yourself.
Everyone deserves a safe space to express themselves. I’m here to walk alongside you as you navigate life changes, whether coping with anxiety, managing stress, addressing traumas, or handling significant transitions. Looking at ourselves can feel overwhelming and nearly impossible, but my goal is to support you in finding self-compassion. Embracing the versions of yourself that have helped you survive and navigate past experiences can bring a profound sense of freedom and ease, while naming and accepting the future parts of you that are cheering you on can be deeply uplifting.
EMDR and Parts Work utilize your body’s natural healing abilities to process past traumas and harmonize different aspects of yourself.
Everyone deserves a safe space to express themselves. I’m here to walk alongside you as you navigate life changes, whether coping with anxiety, managing stress, addressing traumas, or handling significant transitions. Looking at ourselves can feel overwhelming and nearly impossible, but my goal is to support you in finding self-compassion. Embracing the versions of yourself that have helped you survive and navigate past experiences can bring a profound sense of freedom and ease, while naming and accepting the future parts of you that are cheering you on can be deeply uplifting.
![Photo of Sonya Gelinas - CARE Counseling Services LLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a56bc756-6043-4c70-aee5-62724c7de813/1/320x400.jpeg)
CARE Counseling Services LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Bedford, NH 03110
Discover lasting relief through cutting-edge treatments like EMDR Therapy.
Are you longing for freedom from the suffocating grip of anxiety, stress, and trauma? We understand the weight these issues carry and their impact on your daily life and overall well-being. You seek a breakthrough, a chance to regain control and find lasting relief. At CARE Counseling, we specialize in treating these exact challenges through cutting-edge treatments. Our goal is to guide you towards overcoming your mental health conditions. We believe that simply managing symptoms isn't enough. That's why we offer innovative therapies that provide quick and lasting relief.
Discover lasting relief through cutting-edge treatments like EMDR Therapy.
Are you longing for freedom from the suffocating grip of anxiety, stress, and trauma? We understand the weight these issues carry and their impact on your daily life and overall well-being. You seek a breakthrough, a chance to regain control and find lasting relief. At CARE Counseling, we specialize in treating these exact challenges through cutting-edge treatments. Our goal is to guide you towards overcoming your mental health conditions. We believe that simply managing symptoms isn't enough. That's why we offer innovative therapies that provide quick and lasting relief.
![Photo of Sarah Ahearn, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/dad0e978-69f1-4df3-8b6f-faf222eb10a4/1/320x400.jpeg)
I use various modalities as a therapist including the creative arts, EMDR and talk therapy.
I believe that creativity and the imagination can help us heal. The arts are a powerful tool that can offer us a way to find ourselves and create transformation. I offer a safe place without judgment that is welcoming to people from all walks of life. I use a collaborative, client-centered, strength-based approach that allows each person to be able to feel comfortable in their own discovery and journey to well being.
I use various modalities as a therapist including the creative arts, EMDR and talk therapy.
I believe that creativity and the imagination can help us heal. The arts are a powerful tool that can offer us a way to find ourselves and create transformation. I offer a safe place without judgment that is welcoming to people from all walks of life. I use a collaborative, client-centered, strength-based approach that allows each person to be able to feel comfortable in their own discovery and journey to well being.
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![Photo of Sarah C Benoit - Sarah C. Benoit, LCMHC, LMHC, PLLC, LCMHC, LMHC, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d6ce378c-4ffa-4be1-b729-e41e41d559b2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Sarah C. Benoit, LCMHC, LMHC, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCMHC, LMHC, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NH 03110
My specialties include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Psychedelic Integration.
We deal with things when we are ready and heal best when we can subscribe to our own timeline, using the constructs that work best for us without pressure or judgement. Taking that first step to engage in therapy can feel like a daunting, scary task. It is my job to walk by your side in your journey. I aim to create a safe, compassionate environment for you so you feel comfortable exploring those things that you want to change or improve on in your life. Those things, that when processed, will help make you a healthier, stronger, more enlightened individual.
My specialties include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Psychedelic Integration.
We deal with things when we are ready and heal best when we can subscribe to our own timeline, using the constructs that work best for us without pressure or judgement. Taking that first step to engage in therapy can feel like a daunting, scary task. It is my job to walk by your side in your journey. I aim to create a safe, compassionate environment for you so you feel comfortable exploring those things that you want to change or improve on in your life. Those things, that when processed, will help make you a healthier, stronger, more enlightened individual.
![Photo of Brecon Crosby, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5fc159e0-f4f1-4911-8c77-68a0e28e8588/1/320x400.jpeg)
Our bodies want to communicate with us, together we can use a variety of methods, including EMDR, Polyvagal Theory, CBT and Play Therapy to help gain a better understand of the self.
Email is the best way to reach me. Hi, I’m Brecon. My therapeutic approach is trauma focused and strengths based. I use a gentle, yet direct approach with clients to work on the goals we have created together. I have found that this style allows me to work holistically with you, so we can bring you from where you are to where you would like to be in your wellness journey.
Our bodies want to communicate with us, together we can use a variety of methods, including EMDR, Polyvagal Theory, CBT and Play Therapy to help gain a better understand of the self.
Email is the best way to reach me. Hi, I’m Brecon. My therapeutic approach is trauma focused and strengths based. I use a gentle, yet direct approach with clients to work on the goals we have created together. I have found that this style allows me to work holistically with you, so we can bring you from where you are to where you would like to be in your wellness journey.
![Photo of Heather Crowell, LCMHC, MLADC, LCS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d486073-757a-4c9d-a61b-f294ed2c88b1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I offer trauma informed care and I am trained in EMDR and DBT.
Throughout my career I have worked with a variety of different populations and clients. I feel that mental health treatment is for everyone and I strive to make my services accessible.
I offer trauma informed care and I am trained in EMDR and DBT.
Throughout my career I have worked with a variety of different populations and clients. I feel that mental health treatment is for everyone and I strive to make my services accessible.
![Photo of Virginia Marie Early, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a384b36f-9e6a-4a17-80af-37b63941953b/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR, an effective tool when working to process trauma and PTSD.
A trauma informed therapist working with adults in MA. I use a variety of modalities that are unique and tailored to the individual. I have a certification in expressive arts and find art techniques useful when working with depression or self-esteem issues. I provide a non-judgmental, safe place to explore root causes of your symptoms. Sometimes something minor happens and our life spirals from there.
I am trained in EMDR, an effective tool when working to process trauma and PTSD.
A trauma informed therapist working with adults in MA. I use a variety of modalities that are unique and tailored to the individual. I have a certification in expressive arts and find art techniques useful when working with depression or self-esteem issues. I provide a non-judgmental, safe place to explore root causes of your symptoms. Sometimes something minor happens and our life spirals from there.
![Photo of Emma Conant, MA, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/69e1c82c-1ba6-4107-a3c0-4367b0d1f508/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am currently accepting new clients! Everyone is deserving of an experience of finally putting themselves first. You deserve a space to feel heard and accepted which is what I am here to do. I am here to provide you support, help you develop new skills to cope with trauma and/or everyday stressors, and hopefully help you make connections to find patterns in your story and your symptoms. You know yourself better than anyone, you will lead us in how you think, feel, and act which will then create an open dialogue between us where I may use evidence-based techniques from CBT, EMDR, ACT, DBT, & other trauma-focused modalities.
I am currently accepting new clients! Everyone is deserving of an experience of finally putting themselves first. You deserve a space to feel heard and accepted which is what I am here to do. I am here to provide you support, help you develop new skills to cope with trauma and/or everyday stressors, and hopefully help you make connections to find patterns in your story and your symptoms. You know yourself better than anyone, you will lead us in how you think, feel, and act which will then create an open dialogue between us where I may use evidence-based techniques from CBT, EMDR, ACT, DBT, & other trauma-focused modalities.
![Photo of Sara Jastrzebski, MA, LCMHC, CCTP, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/292ff690-58a4-4627-b5f3-696704c00be5/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sara Jastrzebski
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CCTP, NCC
Verified Verified
Bedford, NH 03110
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Stress Reduction, Narrative Therapy, EMDR Therapy, and have a solution-based and client-centered focus.
My main passion is working with individuals who struggle with symptoms related to Post-Traumatic Stress, Anxiety and Panic, Depression, and those who have survived trauma in it's many forms. I believe that individuals who have struggled with these various issues and adverse experiences can move forward in their lives to feel happier and be more productive in their efforts to find healing.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy and Stress Reduction, Narrative Therapy, EMDR Therapy, and have a solution-based and client-centered focus.
My main passion is working with individuals who struggle with symptoms related to Post-Traumatic Stress, Anxiety and Panic, Depression, and those who have survived trauma in it's many forms. I believe that individuals who have struggled with these various issues and adverse experiences can move forward in their lives to feel happier and be more productive in their efforts to find healing.
![Photo of Sonya Gelinas - CARE Counseling Services, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/609f1bc7-e2c2-42dd-884c-72b01a4e366f/3/320x400.jpeg)
CARE Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Bedford, NH 03110
Experience the transformative power of EMDR therapy at our specialized practice.
Are you tired of battling anxiety, trauma, stress, or other mental health struggles? Look no further - our mental health practice specializes in providing comprehensive care for adults and adolescents just like you. We understand the challenges you face and are here to support you on your journey to healing and well-being. At our practice, we focus on cutting-edge therapies that deliver quick and lasting relief. We believe in staying at the forefront of advancements in the field to ensure that you receive the most effective treatment available. We are dedicated to helping you overcome your challenges and regain control of your life
Experience the transformative power of EMDR therapy at our specialized practice.
Are you tired of battling anxiety, trauma, stress, or other mental health struggles? Look no further - our mental health practice specializes in providing comprehensive care for adults and adolescents just like you. We understand the challenges you face and are here to support you on your journey to healing and well-being. At our practice, we focus on cutting-edge therapies that deliver quick and lasting relief. We believe in staying at the forefront of advancements in the field to ensure that you receive the most effective treatment available. We are dedicated to helping you overcome your challenges and regain control of your life
![Photo of Kate Ledoux - Summit Counseling and Consulting, LLC, MA, LCMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/151a1211-e0c6-4268-a985-994756a95775/2/320x400.png)
Summit Counseling and Consulting, LLC
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bedford, NH 03110
Some treatment modalities are person-centered, CBT, EMDR, Integrative Nutrition.
Are you seeking a transformative approach to mental health that goes beyond the conventional? Welcome to Summit Counseling and Consulting, LLC, your premier out-of-network private practice specializing in person-centered holistic mental health. We believe that true wellness encompasses the mind, body, and spirit, and our integrative treatments are designed to nurture all aspects of your well-being. At Summit Counseling, we understand that every individual is unique, which is why our personalized care plans are tailored to meet your specific needs to assist you through your healing process. We see preteens, teens and adults.
Some treatment modalities are person-centered, CBT, EMDR, Integrative Nutrition.
Are you seeking a transformative approach to mental health that goes beyond the conventional? Welcome to Summit Counseling and Consulting, LLC, your premier out-of-network private practice specializing in person-centered holistic mental health. We believe that true wellness encompasses the mind, body, and spirit, and our integrative treatments are designed to nurture all aspects of your well-being. At Summit Counseling, we understand that every individual is unique, which is why our personalized care plans are tailored to meet your specific needs to assist you through your healing process. We see preteens, teens and adults.
![Photo of Tricia Wenrich Maynard, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb66cce1-3b22-49b0-bb07-629dc707151c/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a LICSW and have been a clinician for 34 years, working in a variety of settings and with diverse clientele. I started my MSW career in Community Mental Health then transitioned to Inpatient Psychiatry. From there I worked in Emergency Departments doing Behavioral Health Crisis and Trauma interventions, working both for OhioHealth and The Ohio State University Psychiatric Intake Department. I have always had a foot in private practice on the side, becoming trained in EDMR and DBT therapies as well as Gottman interventions for marriage, partners and couples.
I am a LICSW and have been a clinician for 34 years, working in a variety of settings and with diverse clientele. I started my MSW career in Community Mental Health then transitioned to Inpatient Psychiatry. From there I worked in Emergency Departments doing Behavioral Health Crisis and Trauma interventions, working both for OhioHealth and The Ohio State University Psychiatric Intake Department. I have always had a foot in private practice on the side, becoming trained in EDMR and DBT therapies as well as Gottman interventions for marriage, partners and couples.
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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.