EMDR Therapists in New London, NH

Photo of Joanie Lemmon Bella, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Joanie Lemmon Bella
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New London, NH 03257
I am certified in EMDR, an evidenced-based treatment designed to help alleviate symptoms caused by traumatic events.
I am only offering EMDR Intensives at this time. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed? Are you struggling to manage your emotions? Maybe you’ve been living with emotional pain or experiencing intrusive thoughts and memories that are affecting your ability to live life fully? These feelings can make life even more challenging! I'll work with you to find what will best meet your needs. I integrate talk therapy with mindfulness, expressive arts, and an awareness of the body and mind connection. My approach is warm and accepting and I strive to assist clients in increasing self-understanding, acceptance, and compassion.
I am certified in EMDR, an evidenced-based treatment designed to help alleviate symptoms caused by traumatic events.
I am only offering EMDR Intensives at this time. Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and stressed? Are you struggling to manage your emotions? Maybe you’ve been living with emotional pain or experiencing intrusive thoughts and memories that are affecting your ability to live life fully? These feelings can make life even more challenging! I'll work with you to find what will best meet your needs. I integrate talk therapy with mindfulness, expressive arts, and an awareness of the body and mind connection. My approach is warm and accepting and I strive to assist clients in increasing self-understanding, acceptance, and compassion.
(603) 865-1554 View (603) 865-1554
Photo of Judy Katz, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judy Katz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257
EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and other therapeutic modalities to meet her clients' needs.
Judy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for multiple decades in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, colleges, and outpatient clinics. She has worked with kids, teens, college students, adults, families, and elders both in the US and overseas, continuing to learn and grow through this work. She has extensive experience working with people experiencing life transitions, issues with substance use, career challenges, trauma, divorce, and other family struggles. She utilizes a collaborative, interactive, and respectful strengths-based approach to her work and is trained in trauma-informed care,
EMDR, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and other therapeutic modalities to meet her clients' needs.
Judy is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing for multiple decades in a variety of settings such as hospitals, schools, colleges, and outpatient clinics. She has worked with kids, teens, college students, adults, families, and elders both in the US and overseas, continuing to learn and grow through this work. She has extensive experience working with people experiencing life transitions, issues with substance use, career challenges, trauma, divorce, and other family struggles. She utilizes a collaborative, interactive, and respectful strengths-based approach to her work and is trained in trauma-informed care,
(855) 590-0379 View (855) 590-0379
Photo of Kate Turcotte, MSW, SW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kate Turcotte
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW, SW
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257
Kate has experience in using EMDR, CBT, motivational interviewing, exposure therapy, and an existential framework.
As a clinical social worker, Kate draws upon her sociological training in the therapeutic setting through extensive use of a person-in-environment context as well as strengths-based and client-centered approaches to guide individuals in developing and working toward their goals such as anxiety and stress reduction, life satisfaction and resilience in the context of significant life changes, and increased levels of agency. She also maintains an active research and therapeutic interest in working with survivors of domestic and family violence.
Kate has experience in using EMDR, CBT, motivational interviewing, exposure therapy, and an existential framework.
As a clinical social worker, Kate draws upon her sociological training in the therapeutic setting through extensive use of a person-in-environment context as well as strengths-based and client-centered approaches to guide individuals in developing and working toward their goals such as anxiety and stress reduction, life satisfaction and resilience in the context of significant life changes, and increased levels of agency. She also maintains an active research and therapeutic interest in working with survivors of domestic and family violence.
(844) 385-9904 View (844) 385-9904
Photo of Todd Gardner, PMHNP
Todd Gardner
PMHNP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New London, NH 03257
I integrate EMDR, Mindfulness, Self-Compassion, and Biofeedback with traditional talk therapy.
Are you having trouble managing stress? Is stress causing you to be irritable, short-tempered, distracted, or anxious? Does your life feel out of control due to traumatic stress, grief, or loss? Maybe you are struggling to get by and reaching too often for unhealthy ways of coping? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone.
I integrate EMDR, Mindfulness, Self-Compassion, and Biofeedback with traditional talk therapy.
Are you having trouble managing stress? Is stress causing you to be irritable, short-tempered, distracted, or anxious? Does your life feel out of control due to traumatic stress, grief, or loss? Maybe you are struggling to get by and reaching too often for unhealthy ways of coping? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone.
(888) 983-4499 View (888) 983-4499
Erin Foley
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, MLADC
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257
I am an EMDR therapist who works with adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with issues including trauma/PTSD from emotional/physical/sexual abuse, accidents, natural disasters; clients struggling with substance use and recovery, symptoms of anxiety, depression, family violence, etc.
I am an EMDR therapist who works with adolescents, adults, and families. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with issues including trauma/PTSD from emotional/physical/sexual abuse, accidents, natural disasters; clients struggling with substance use and recovery, symptoms of anxiety, depression, family violence, etc.
(603) 583-4403 View (603) 583-4403
Photo of Janet P Cleary, LCMHC, Counselor
Janet P Cleary
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257
Janet brings 26 years of extensive experience in the areas of trauma, addictions, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and family systems work. She has worked in the NH mental health court system, community mental health and has been in private practice for the past 13 years. She uses an empowerment model, teaches effective grounding and containment skills for symptom reduction and supports one's healing process through EMDR, IFS, CBT, and narrative therapy. She is client centered and prioritizes safety, and compassion in her therapeutic work with clients. Janet works with adults who she enjoys getting to know and then offers collab
Janet brings 26 years of extensive experience in the areas of trauma, addictions, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, and family systems work. She has worked in the NH mental health court system, community mental health and has been in private practice for the past 13 years. She uses an empowerment model, teaches effective grounding and containment skills for symptom reduction and supports one's healing process through EMDR, IFS, CBT, and narrative therapy. She is client centered and prioritizes safety, and compassion in her therapeutic work with clients. Janet works with adults who she enjoys getting to know and then offers collab
(855) 915-2178 View (855) 915-2178
Photo of Amanda Fortin, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Amanda Fortin
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257
Amanda utilizes CBT and DBT treatment approaches to empower clients to recognize the interconnected nature of their thoughts, emotions and behaviors and collaborates with clients to work towards their individual goals and needs. Amanda does work with a variety of clients but has a special interest in working with those impacted by trauma, traumatic brain injuries, ADHD and Substance Abuse related disorders.
Amanda utilizes CBT and DBT treatment approaches to empower clients to recognize the interconnected nature of their thoughts, emotions and behaviors and collaborates with clients to work towards their individual goals and needs. Amanda does work with a variety of clients but has a special interest in working with those impacted by trauma, traumatic brain injuries, ADHD and Substance Abuse related disorders.
(603) 865-1321 View (603) 865-1321
Photo of Nicole Mancino Emdr And Somatic Therapy, MA, MS, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Nicole Mancino Emdr And Somatic Therapy
Counselor, MA, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
New London, NH 03257
This is your life. Are you who you want to be? Do you ever get glimpses of the person you want to be but feel stuck in a moment, failure, struggle, experience, or belief you can’t get out of? I am passionate about helping people get unstuck and move towards the discovery of becoming who they want to be. I strive to help clients experience freedom, discover their strengths, and to be able to progress towards their maximum potential. You may have to step over muddy waters and journey through rugged terrain, but transformation is possible. Emotions 101 group class is also available. Please scroll to bottom of page learn more.
This is your life. Are you who you want to be? Do you ever get glimpses of the person you want to be but feel stuck in a moment, failure, struggle, experience, or belief you can’t get out of? I am passionate about helping people get unstuck and move towards the discovery of becoming who they want to be. I strive to help clients experience freedom, discover their strengths, and to be able to progress towards their maximum potential. You may have to step over muddy waters and journey through rugged terrain, but transformation is possible. Emotions 101 group class is also available. Please scroll to bottom of page learn more.
(603) 945-9815 View (603) 945-9815

Online Therapists

Photo of Corina Ryan, Pre-Licensed Professional
Corina Ryan
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Keene, NH 03431  (Online Only)
I have been trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, EFT, CBT, and DBT.
I seek to support clients on their own unique path of self-exploration and discovery. My approach to therapy is a collaborative and strength-based approach. I believe in building a therapeutic relationship with clients where they feel safe, accepted, and able to explore new areas of growth. Through this therapeutic relationship individuals can develop new perspectives and skills.
I have been trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, EFT, CBT, and DBT.
I seek to support clients on their own unique path of self-exploration and discovery. My approach to therapy is a collaborative and strength-based approach. I believe in building a therapeutic relationship with clients where they feel safe, accepted, and able to explore new areas of growth. Through this therapeutic relationship individuals can develop new perspectives and skills.
(844) 656-1103 View (844) 656-1103
Photo of Elizabeth Foley, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Elizabeth Foley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth, NH 03264
Waitlist for new clients
I often utilize interventions from Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and EMDR.
I'm a pre-licensed professional working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I'm working under the supervision of a licensed clinician. Prior to joining the Counseling Associates team, I worked at a college counseling center and supported students with a wide variety of presenting concerns. In my work with clients, I strive to develop a strong working relationship where they feel safe to discuss their values, goals, and concerns. I aim to highlight clients' strengths and develop treatment goals collaboratively.
I often utilize interventions from Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and EMDR.
I'm a pre-licensed professional working towards becoming a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC). I'm working under the supervision of a licensed clinician. Prior to joining the Counseling Associates team, I worked at a college counseling center and supported students with a wide variety of presenting concerns. In my work with clients, I strive to develop a strong working relationship where they feel safe to discuss their values, goals, and concerns. I aim to highlight clients' strengths and develop treatment goals collaboratively.
(603) 605-0184 View (603) 605-0184
Photo of Jackie Kono, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, CYT, Counselor
Jackie Kono
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LCMHC, CYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
Accepting new clients! Are you feeling like nothing is working? Tired of talk therapy? Done looping through the same patterns and limiting beliefs of "I am a burden/I am unworthy" leading to shame, guilt, depression and anxiety? By combining psychotherapy& Attachment Focused EMDR with energy medicine (EFT, Reiki, yoga/mindfulness),I can help you overcome these old ways of being while creating space for more joy and fulfillment. I offer a safe space to explore your phobias, fears, concerns and goals, while encouraging curiosity around your experience and to help build a life of deeper meaning and sense of connection.
Accepting new clients! Are you feeling like nothing is working? Tired of talk therapy? Done looping through the same patterns and limiting beliefs of "I am a burden/I am unworthy" leading to shame, guilt, depression and anxiety? By combining psychotherapy& Attachment Focused EMDR with energy medicine (EFT, Reiki, yoga/mindfulness),I can help you overcome these old ways of being while creating space for more joy and fulfillment. I offer a safe space to explore your phobias, fears, concerns and goals, while encouraging curiosity around your experience and to help build a life of deeper meaning and sense of connection.
(978) 306-4290 View (978) 306-4290
Photo of Nelson Hayden, MLADC, MBA, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Nelson Hayden
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MLADC, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Keene, NH 03431
I am basic trained in EMDR therapy which has proven effective in addressing trauma, substance use disorders and other challenges.
I entered into the counseling field five years ago in order to assist those who are suffering from substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders. Often alcohol and other substance use are a maladaptive coping mechanism for other difficulties in life. I want to work with you in a manner where we together create treatment plans that are based upon what you are able and engaged to do. Allow me to collaborate and assist you in working towards a self-directed life where you can be happy, healthy, and present.
I am basic trained in EMDR therapy which has proven effective in addressing trauma, substance use disorders and other challenges.
I entered into the counseling field five years ago in order to assist those who are suffering from substance use disorders and co-occurring disorders. Often alcohol and other substance use are a maladaptive coping mechanism for other difficulties in life. I want to work with you in a manner where we together create treatment plans that are based upon what you are able and engaged to do. Allow me to collaborate and assist you in working towards a self-directed life where you can be happy, healthy, and present.
(603) 634-9721 View (603) 634-9721
Photo of Rachel Rainha - CARE Counseling Services, LCMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
CARE Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
Are you tired of struggling with persistent mental health issues? Do you feel like you've tried therapy after therapy with little to no relief? At CARE Counseling Services, we've transformed the lives of countless individuals who've been in the same shoes. Our unique approach has allowed many to feel relief in just a few hours of therapy. Why Choose CARE? We go beyond the traditional. Our therapists invest countless hours yearly in mastering advanced techniques, setting us apart from even the average EMDR therapist. Life-Changing Results: We don't just offer therapy; we bring transformations.
Are you tired of struggling with persistent mental health issues? Do you feel like you've tried therapy after therapy with little to no relief? At CARE Counseling Services, we've transformed the lives of countless individuals who've been in the same shoes. Our unique approach has allowed many to feel relief in just a few hours of therapy. Why Choose CARE? We go beyond the traditional. Our therapists invest countless hours yearly in mastering advanced techniques, setting us apart from even the average EMDR therapist. Life-Changing Results: We don't just offer therapy; we bring transformations.
(603) 270-9181 View (603) 270-9181
Photo of Samantha Houser, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Samantha Houser
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy.
Samantha Houser is an experienced clinical social worker excelling in EMDR therapy. She focuses on assisting individuals in overcoming anxiety, trauma, and panic attacks. Known for her dedication, Samantha fosters a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can confidently face and conquer their challenges. Her approach is centered on empowering individuals, guiding them towards enriched lives marked by newfound confidence and resilience. Samantha's commitment to her clients' well-being makes her a trusted professional in guiding them through their journey of healing and personal growth.
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy.
Samantha Houser is an experienced clinical social worker excelling in EMDR therapy. She focuses on assisting individuals in overcoming anxiety, trauma, and panic attacks. Known for her dedication, Samantha fosters a safe, non-judgmental environment where clients can confidently face and conquer their challenges. Her approach is centered on empowering individuals, guiding them towards enriched lives marked by newfound confidence and resilience. Samantha's commitment to her clients' well-being makes her a trusted professional in guiding them through their journey of healing and personal growth.
(844) 907-2715 View (844) 907-2715
Photo of Ramona Smith, MSW,  LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ramona Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301
Types of service I offer: EMDr DBt CBT Trauma Focused Solution Focused therapy Motivational Interviewing Strengths based.
Therapeutic Approach: During sessions I integrate a variety of techniques, such as DBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness. My goal is to collaborate with clients to build a unique environment that enables them to thrive and achieve success. Everyone deserves to have the support of someone who can listen empathetically and help them create a plan to manage those feelings. I use a person-centered approach to support your individual strengths, needs and goals. Focusing on what is important to you will help you to balance those stressors in your life.
Types of service I offer: EMDr DBt CBT Trauma Focused Solution Focused therapy Motivational Interviewing Strengths based.
Therapeutic Approach: During sessions I integrate a variety of techniques, such as DBT, Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness. My goal is to collaborate with clients to build a unique environment that enables them to thrive and achieve success. Everyone deserves to have the support of someone who can listen empathetically and help them create a plan to manage those feelings. I use a person-centered approach to support your individual strengths, needs and goals. Focusing on what is important to you will help you to balance those stressors in your life.
(888) 755-9334 View (888) 755-9334
Photo of Bre VanDeWeghe, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Bre VanDeWeghe
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, NH 03101
I strive to create a warm and welcoming therapeutic environment, where individuals feel comfortable to engage in self-exploration and discovery. I truly believe each individual has the resiliency and skills to achieve their goals, and I am grateful to be a part of that journey. Therapy is not a one size fits all and I work to collaborate with my clients, encouraging them to be in the driver seat when it comes to their treatment and goals. I use a combination of different evidence based therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and am EMDR trained.
I strive to create a warm and welcoming therapeutic environment, where individuals feel comfortable to engage in self-exploration and discovery. I truly believe each individual has the resiliency and skills to achieve their goals, and I am grateful to be a part of that journey. Therapy is not a one size fits all and I work to collaborate with my clients, encouraging them to be in the driver seat when it comes to their treatment and goals. I use a combination of different evidence based therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and am EMDR trained.
(844) 967-2829 View (844) 967-2829
Photo of Dana Gioia, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dana Gioia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Durham, NH 03824  (Online Only)
I am also EMDR trained and proficient.
I have current openings for self-pay, telehealth clients- I believe everyone is capable of the change they want to achieve, and the first step is reaching out for help. Are you struggling with communication issues in your relationship? Does anxiety prevent you from living the life you want? Is the trauma you experienced impacting your day-to-day life, making it hard to feel safe or to trust? I want to work with you to help you feel better and fulfill your potential. Sometimes it just takes someone else believing in us for us to start believing in ourselves. I take an inherently positive approach, finding the potential in everyone.
I am also EMDR trained and proficient.
I have current openings for self-pay, telehealth clients- I believe everyone is capable of the change they want to achieve, and the first step is reaching out for help. Are you struggling with communication issues in your relationship? Does anxiety prevent you from living the life you want? Is the trauma you experienced impacting your day-to-day life, making it hard to feel safe or to trust? I want to work with you to help you feel better and fulfill your potential. Sometimes it just takes someone else believing in us for us to start believing in ourselves. I take an inherently positive approach, finding the potential in everyone.
(603) 499-7093 View (603) 499-7093
Photo of Kayla Fedorchuk, MA, CMHC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kayla Fedorchuk
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, CMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manchester, NH 03101
I utilize a variety of modalities, including Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), EMDR Intensive Sessions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness.
"Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction". You are capable of amazing things! Whether this is your first time in counseling or you have been in counseling for years, it is never too late to grow, evolve, and progress towards new beginnings. Our negative thoughts and emotions can be traced back to unpleasant memories. Processing these memories can help you eliminate those negative thoughts, feelings, and emotions; reducing your on-going stress, anxiety, fears, etc. My goal is to help you heal in a space that is free of judgement; where you can feel comfortable, safe, and secure.
I utilize a variety of modalities, including Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), EMDR Intensive Sessions, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Mindfulness.
"Never underestimate the power you have to take your life in a new direction". You are capable of amazing things! Whether this is your first time in counseling or you have been in counseling for years, it is never too late to grow, evolve, and progress towards new beginnings. Our negative thoughts and emotions can be traced back to unpleasant memories. Processing these memories can help you eliminate those negative thoughts, feelings, and emotions; reducing your on-going stress, anxiety, fears, etc. My goal is to help you heal in a space that is free of judgement; where you can feel comfortable, safe, and secure.
(603) 696-4872 View (603) 696-4872
Photo of Samantha Field, LCMHC, Counselor
Samantha Field
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Concord, NH 03301  (Online Only)
I employ EMDR therapy among other evidence-based techniques, in a safe, judgement-free environment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Supervisor. I am licensed in NH, MA and Florida. I have a strong background in trauma, anxiety, depression, intellectual disabilities, and autism. I want to help you work through your healing journey in order to live your best life. I am currently taking clients ages 15 through the lifespan.
I employ EMDR therapy among other evidence-based techniques, in a safe, judgement-free environment.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Supervisor. I am licensed in NH, MA and Florida. I have a strong background in trauma, anxiety, depression, intellectual disabilities, and autism. I want to help you work through your healing journey in order to live your best life. I am currently taking clients ages 15 through the lifespan.
(833) 948-2169 View (833) 948-2169
Photo of Karen LeClaire - North Andover Counseling Professionals, LMHC, LCMHC, LPC, Counselor
North Andover Counseling Professionals
Counselor, LMHC, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Plaistow, NH 03865
We now have openings! North Andover Counseling is proud to provide personalized high quality mental health care to children, teens and adults. In our 25+ years of practice as licensed Mental Health Counselors, we specialize in treating individuals with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Trauma. We follow a structured Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) treatment modality that is designed to produce measurable progress each week. We also offer EMDR, Brainspotting and ART to help individuals heal from trauma and other distressing life experiences.
We now have openings! North Andover Counseling is proud to provide personalized high quality mental health care to children, teens and adults. In our 25+ years of practice as licensed Mental Health Counselors, we specialize in treating individuals with Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Trauma. We follow a structured Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) treatment modality that is designed to produce measurable progress each week. We also offer EMDR, Brainspotting and ART to help individuals heal from trauma and other distressing life experiences.
(508) 715-3090 View (508) 715-3090

See more therapy options for New London

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.