EMDR Therapists in Collingswood, NJ

Photo of Katie Latona, MA, LAC, Counselor
Katie Latona
Counselor, MA, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR and have advanced training in EFT for couples.
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples who are facing individual, relational, and systemic challenges. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, life transitions, grief, loss, and trauma, as well as identity, relationship, and parenting issues. I also have interest in working with individuals with late-diagnosed (or suspected) neurodivergence, as well as disability and chronic illness.
I am trained in EMDR and have advanced training in EFT for couples.
I work with adolescents, adults, and couples who are facing individual, relational, and systemic challenges. I specialize in working with people experiencing anxiety, depression, anger, low self-esteem, life transitions, grief, loss, and trauma, as well as identity, relationship, and parenting issues. I also have interest in working with individuals with late-diagnosed (or suspected) neurodivergence, as well as disability and chronic illness.
(856) 477-1171 View (856) 477-1171
Photo of Taylor Elwood, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Elwood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08107  (Online Only)
My integrative approach utilizes mindfulness, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, cognitive-behavioral tools, interpersonal psychotherapy, and trauma-specific interventions.
You’re not feeling like yourself and struggling in your relationships. Maybe you've experienced loss or a significant life transition. You'd like to feel more connected to yourself and with those around you, but you've found life to be painful and confusing with unexpected challenges and transitions. If you're feeling disconnected, out of control, anxious, or grieving, you are not alone. If you're ready to lean into change and be curious and compassionate with yourself, therapy can support you in strengthening your relationship with yourself and in building safe, authentic, clarifying, and fulfilling connections with others.
My integrative approach utilizes mindfulness, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, cognitive-behavioral tools, interpersonal psychotherapy, and trauma-specific interventions.
You’re not feeling like yourself and struggling in your relationships. Maybe you've experienced loss or a significant life transition. You'd like to feel more connected to yourself and with those around you, but you've found life to be painful and confusing with unexpected challenges and transitions. If you're feeling disconnected, out of control, anxious, or grieving, you are not alone. If you're ready to lean into change and be curious and compassionate with yourself, therapy can support you in strengthening your relationship with yourself and in building safe, authentic, clarifying, and fulfilling connections with others.
(908) 827-6180 View (908) 827-6180
Photo of Brie (Brianne) Scott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brie (Brianne) Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I primarily utilize DBT, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) I work with those experiencing stress in life transitions, and relationships issues.
I am a Hispanic, white, able-bodied, queer, women. I practice from an anti-oppression frame work, harm reduction perspective and I believe that you are the expert on your life, I’m just here to support you. I work with clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
I primarily utilize DBT, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) I work with those experiencing stress in life transitions, and relationships issues.
I am a Hispanic, white, able-bodied, queer, women. I practice from an anti-oppression frame work, harm reduction perspective and I believe that you are the expert on your life, I’m just here to support you. I work with clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.
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Photo of Elise Gaul, MS, LPC, NCC, CT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elise Gaul
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08107  (Online Only)
I am an experienced practitioner providing evidenced-based therapies including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Hypnotherapy, CBT, mindfulness and others for processing grief and trauma, lowering anxiety, reducing pain symptoms, and improving mood.
Are you feeling off balance or distressed physically and emotionally due to a recent loss, past trauma, or stressful life circumstances? You need to process your experience plus tools and practices to enjoy a healthy mind-- one that is that is present, focused, responsive, and resilient. Your life is precious. Now is the time to make it the best it can be with positive mind states, a sense of purpose, and connection. A healthy mind is the best predictor of a happy life!
I am an experienced practitioner providing evidenced-based therapies including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Pain Reprocessing Therapy, Hypnotherapy, CBT, mindfulness and others for processing grief and trauma, lowering anxiety, reducing pain symptoms, and improving mood.
Are you feeling off balance or distressed physically and emotionally due to a recent loss, past trauma, or stressful life circumstances? You need to process your experience plus tools and practices to enjoy a healthy mind-- one that is that is present, focused, responsive, and resilient. Your life is precious. Now is the time to make it the best it can be with positive mind states, a sense of purpose, and connection. A healthy mind is the best predictor of a happy life!
(610) 202-0905 View (610) 202-0905
Photo of Anita Devine - Anita Devine LCSW-R, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Devine LCSW-R
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I trained extensively in AEDP, EMDR, Trauma focused therapy, and parts work, Currently training with Syzygy Institute, IFS informed EMDR.
You are more than the painful experiences you have endured. You may feel triggered in everyday situations or feel alone and isolated. You may struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or guilt. However, you have a sense of your life purpose — and long to live your life more authentically. You are ready for relief. You're ready to love who you truly are and face your future with a sense of hope. In our work together, you will gain a deeper respect for what makes you unique. Through connecting with your core, authentic self, you can experience greater ease, freedom, and self-acceptance. Please call or email to be added to my waitlist.
I trained extensively in AEDP, EMDR, Trauma focused therapy, and parts work, Currently training with Syzygy Institute, IFS informed EMDR.
You are more than the painful experiences you have endured. You may feel triggered in everyday situations or feel alone and isolated. You may struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or guilt. However, you have a sense of your life purpose — and long to live your life more authentically. You are ready for relief. You're ready to love who you truly are and face your future with a sense of hope. In our work together, you will gain a deeper respect for what makes you unique. Through connecting with your core, authentic self, you can experience greater ease, freedom, and self-acceptance. Please call or email to be added to my waitlist.
(609) 739-7591 View (609) 739-7591
Photo of Lara Farrokh - From Roots to Wings Therapy, IFS and EMDR , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
From Roots to Wings Therapy, IFS and EMDR
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108
Waitlist for new clients
I also used EMDR to help with integration of healing.
Therapy should be more than just talk. I offer more than just a safe space to talk about your feelings. I offer ways to truly become connected to your feelings and integrate what you learn about your feelings in therapy into your daily life. If you are overwhelmed with work, parenting, feel betrayed or hurt in the relationships, feel disconnected from others, maybe you sense a hopelessness around world events and/or maybe just want to learn more about who you are: we will work together to understand who you are, what is really good for you and what you want out of life. When you are with me, you belong, you matter, you are safe.
I also used EMDR to help with integration of healing.
Therapy should be more than just talk. I offer more than just a safe space to talk about your feelings. I offer ways to truly become connected to your feelings and integrate what you learn about your feelings in therapy into your daily life. If you are overwhelmed with work, parenting, feel betrayed or hurt in the relationships, feel disconnected from others, maybe you sense a hopelessness around world events and/or maybe just want to learn more about who you are: we will work together to understand who you are, what is really good for you and what you want out of life. When you are with me, you belong, you matter, you are safe.
(856) 517-0282 View (856) 517-0282
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Collingswood, NJ 08108
I integrate EMDR with other treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing) to meet the individualized needs of my clients.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
I integrate EMDR with other treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing) to meet the individualized needs of my clients.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
(856) 553-1489 View (856) 553-1489
Photo of Dana Barnes, LPC, NCC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Barnes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Collingswood, NJ 08108  (Online Only)
Great to meet you! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in New Jersey and have been practicing for the last 5 years.
Great to meet you! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in New Jersey and have been practicing for the last 5 years.
(862) 727-7677 View (862) 727-7677
Photo of Miriam Rosario, MS, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Miriam Rosario
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108
Happiness, confidence and peace of mind require a commitment to self-reflection. Powerful feelings and personal struggles present obstacles. Being sensitive to life's complexities, I provide a safe environment to express feelings at your pace. During our time together we focus on the issues that are of importance to you and help strengthen your ability to manage the demands of life.
Happiness, confidence and peace of mind require a commitment to self-reflection. Powerful feelings and personal struggles present obstacles. Being sensitive to life's complexities, I provide a safe environment to express feelings at your pace. During our time together we focus on the issues that are of importance to you and help strengthen your ability to manage the demands of life.
(215) 983-2111 View (215) 983-2111
Photo of Amy Salmon Kasten, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Salmon Kasten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08108
I am a licensed therapist specializing in clinical work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I view my role as assisting my clients to more fully realize and become their authentic selves. Often, life events occur that prevent us from feeling strong, brave, satisfied, or even present in the world. We may become disconnected from others as well as ourselves. My passion is supporting clients as they grow, heal, play, discover, and connect within their therapy sessions and in their lives. I provide a safe, secure space where clients can explore their innermost thoughts, feelings, wishes, and fears.
I am a licensed therapist specializing in clinical work with children, adolescents, adults, families, and groups. I view my role as assisting my clients to more fully realize and become their authentic selves. Often, life events occur that prevent us from feeling strong, brave, satisfied, or even present in the world. We may become disconnected from others as well as ourselves. My passion is supporting clients as they grow, heal, play, discover, and connect within their therapy sessions and in their lives. I provide a safe, secure space where clients can explore their innermost thoughts, feelings, wishes, and fears.
(856) 942-1913 View (856) 942-1913
Photo of Paula Chadwick, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Chadwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Collingswood, NJ 08108  (Online Only)
Let me acknowledge that it can be so challenging to find a therapist that takes your insurance, has availability, aligns with your schedule, and is someone you click with. Let me tell you all the main things you need to know to determine if we might be a good fit: I offer virtual individual sessions to adults residing in Vermont and New Jersey. I mostly work in the evenings, with limited availability during the day. I don't have much flexibility in my schedule, so I typically see clients on consistent days and times - weekly or bi-weekly. Please email to connect.
Let me acknowledge that it can be so challenging to find a therapist that takes your insurance, has availability, aligns with your schedule, and is someone you click with. Let me tell you all the main things you need to know to determine if we might be a good fit: I offer virtual individual sessions to adults residing in Vermont and New Jersey. I mostly work in the evenings, with limited availability during the day. I don't have much flexibility in my schedule, so I typically see clients on consistent days and times - weekly or bi-weekly. Please email to connect.
(802) 873-7199 View (802) 873-7199
Photo of Diana Cofsky, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Cofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Collingswood, NJ 08108
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
I am a licensed professional counselor that has been working in behavioral health for over 20 years. I am a lifelong resident of South Jersey and obtained my Bachelors and Masters degrees from La Salle University in Philadelphia.
(856) 677-5960 View (856) 677-5960
Photo of Rebecca Zuspan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Zuspan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Collingswood, NJ 08108
I love to work with couples and individuals who feel disconnected in their relationships. This includes struggles with ineffective communication styles, feeling stuck in negative patterns, and painful feelings around abandonment or rejection. My approach to therapy involves creating a safe and accepting space to get in touch with the feelings beneath the conflict and discomfort. Oftentimes, there are wounds from past relationship and/or childhood experiences contributing to present-day issues that can inform not only where we are stuck, but how to get unstuck.
I love to work with couples and individuals who feel disconnected in their relationships. This includes struggles with ineffective communication styles, feeling stuck in negative patterns, and painful feelings around abandonment or rejection. My approach to therapy involves creating a safe and accepting space to get in touch with the feelings beneath the conflict and discomfort. Oftentimes, there are wounds from past relationship and/or childhood experiences contributing to present-day issues that can inform not only where we are stuck, but how to get unstuck.
(609) 451-3738 View (609) 451-3738
Photo of Jenny Starosta, PhD, Psychologist
Jenny Starosta
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collingswood, NJ 08107  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with maternal mental health issues and family problems. I have great experience with moms, families of children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and family relationships. The 'right treatment' is not the same for everyone and I work to understand and integrate the physical and mental health factors that impact your situation. I am not pretentious or judgmental. I am practical and personable. My success comes from my understanding and willingness to treat what you need first, and utilize all the expertise available to help you and your family function the way you want.
I specialize in working with maternal mental health issues and family problems. I have great experience with moms, families of children with autism spectrum disorder, ADHD, anxiety, depression, and family relationships. The 'right treatment' is not the same for everyone and I work to understand and integrate the physical and mental health factors that impact your situation. I am not pretentious or judgmental. I am practical and personable. My success comes from my understanding and willingness to treat what you need first, and utilize all the expertise available to help you and your family function the way you want.
(484) 214-2275 View (484) 214-2275

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sam Sperling - Sam Sperling (licensed in PA, NJ and DE), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Sperling (licensed in PA, NJ and DE)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002  (Online Only)
Through the use of EMDR and Pain Reprocessing Therapy, I'm confident that you will be able to live a more fulfilling, calmer life.
Your life has become exhausting. You have so much to do and your efforts never feel like they are enough. You would like to take time to slow down and focus on yourself for a change, but when will that realistically happen? There will always be something else to get done and you can’t seem to catch a break. Maybe your pain is taking the driver's seat, unsure of when your next flare up will strike. Maybe you've made your world smaller in hopes of having more control, but things continue to feel not quite right. You feel stuck in this place for what feels like an eternity and feeling uncertain about the future has become your jam.
Through the use of EMDR and Pain Reprocessing Therapy, I'm confident that you will be able to live a more fulfilling, calmer life.
Your life has become exhausting. You have so much to do and your efforts never feel like they are enough. You would like to take time to slow down and focus on yourself for a change, but when will that realistically happen? There will always be something else to get done and you can’t seem to catch a break. Maybe your pain is taking the driver's seat, unsure of when your next flare up will strike. Maybe you've made your world smaller in hopes of having more control, but things continue to feel not quite right. You feel stuck in this place for what feels like an eternity and feeling uncertain about the future has become your jam.
(267) 662-2861 View (267) 662-2861
Photo of Jaclyn Bsales, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, KAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Bsales
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, KAP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cherry Hill, NJ 08002  (Online Only)
As an EMDR-Certified therapist, Brainspotting Phase 2 Trained, & Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) provider, I strive to create a safe, empathetic, and validating environment for clients to process their trauma, so they can heal and become the best version of themselves.
What if i told you, you didn't have to re-live your trauma, to heal from it? Remembering is not recovering. The only thing worse than living through a traumatic event, are the after affects that impact the present day. These affects may include mood instability, flashbacks, depression, irritability, anxiety, hyper-vigilance, isolation, destructive behaviors, and more. Past trauma has the ability to change our worldview in the present, contributing to an ongoing sense of danger, fear, hopelessness, and shame. That's why, as a therapist, I use an array of here-and-now techniques to assist clients in re-establishing a sense of safety.
As an EMDR-Certified therapist, Brainspotting Phase 2 Trained, & Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy (KAP) provider, I strive to create a safe, empathetic, and validating environment for clients to process their trauma, so they can heal and become the best version of themselves.
What if i told you, you didn't have to re-live your trauma, to heal from it? Remembering is not recovering. The only thing worse than living through a traumatic event, are the after affects that impact the present day. These affects may include mood instability, flashbacks, depression, irritability, anxiety, hyper-vigilance, isolation, destructive behaviors, and more. Past trauma has the ability to change our worldview in the present, contributing to an ongoing sense of danger, fear, hopelessness, and shame. That's why, as a therapist, I use an array of here-and-now techniques to assist clients in re-establishing a sense of safety.
(973) 358-0378 View (973) 358-0378
Photo of Michelle Richardson - Mindful Soul Center for Wellbeing, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindful Soul Center for Wellbeing
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haddon Heights, NJ 08035
We offer individual, family, and couples counseling, therapeutic groups, and workshops using integrative approaches including EMDR, IFS (Internal Family Systems), Creative Arts Therapy, and more! We also have a low cost options available through our internship program during the university school year.
Mindful Soul Center for Wellbeing is a counseling center where you can navigate difficult life transitions, heal from painful events and trauma, create healthier relationships, and develop a truer and more compassionate relationship with yourself! We are recognized particularly for our work with female-identifying adults, tweens, and teens on the path towards balance and well-being and for being a trauma-informed practice with a large number of our team experienced in EMDR Therapy as well as IFS Therapy.
We offer individual, family, and couples counseling, therapeutic groups, and workshops using integrative approaches including EMDR, IFS (Internal Family Systems), Creative Arts Therapy, and more! We also have a low cost options available through our internship program during the university school year.
Mindful Soul Center for Wellbeing is a counseling center where you can navigate difficult life transitions, heal from painful events and trauma, create healthier relationships, and develop a truer and more compassionate relationship with yourself! We are recognized particularly for our work with female-identifying adults, tweens, and teens on the path towards balance and well-being and for being a trauma-informed practice with a large number of our team experienced in EMDR Therapy as well as IFS Therapy.
(856) 282-1811 View (856) 282-1811
Photo of Jessica Houghton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Houghton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Haddon Township, NJ 08108
I can help you feel more confident and peaceful about your decisions as well as helping you decrease your daily anxiety by using a mindfulness-based approach in combination with EMDR as well as an eclectic mix of other therapeutic techniques.
We can all benefit from mindfulness and self compassion. Did you grow up with a narcissist or a substance abuser? Have you ever suspected that you were being emotionally abused by a parent, partner (current or former), boss or friend? Are you always second guessing yourself? If you find yourself stuck repeating the same mistakes over and over again in relationships at work or in life, you're not alone. If you're feeling guilty, sad or anxious a lot of the time, therapy can help. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma and abuse survivors.
I can help you feel more confident and peaceful about your decisions as well as helping you decrease your daily anxiety by using a mindfulness-based approach in combination with EMDR as well as an eclectic mix of other therapeutic techniques.
We can all benefit from mindfulness and self compassion. Did you grow up with a narcissist or a substance abuser? Have you ever suspected that you were being emotionally abused by a parent, partner (current or former), boss or friend? Are you always second guessing yourself? If you find yourself stuck repeating the same mistakes over and over again in relationships at work or in life, you're not alone. If you're feeling guilty, sad or anxious a lot of the time, therapy can help. I specialize in anxiety, depression, and trauma and abuse survivors.
(856) 617-4542 View (856) 617-4542
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, LCSW, LCADC
Melissa Cramutolo
LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
I integrate EMDR with other treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing) to meet the individualized needs of my clients.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
I integrate EMDR with other treatment modalities (CBT, DBT, Internal Family Systems, Somatic Experiencing) to meet the individualized needs of my clients.
I am a Licensed Social Worker (LSW) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) specializing in the treatment of trauma and addictions. I am passionate about walking clients through the healing journey, and believe that through facing our struggles we are able to find and embrace our unique strengths and purpose.
(856) 481-7975 View (856) 481-7975
Photo of Victoria Link, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Link
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cherry Hill, NJ 08034
One of my greatest decisions was to get trained in EMDR.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated for change, able to take accountability for their actions, and open-minded to new concepts and challenges that improve their daily life. I encourage clients to develop SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals within the first few sessions to ensure active progress is being attained.
One of my greatest decisions was to get trained in EMDR.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated for change, able to take accountability for their actions, and open-minded to new concepts and challenges that improve their daily life. I encourage clients to develop SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals within the first few sessions to ensure active progress is being attained.
(856) 474-3066 View (856) 474-3066

See more therapy options for Collingswood

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.