EMDR Therapists in Denville, NJ

Photo of Leah Oswanski, MA, LPC, ACS, MT-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leah Oswanski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ACS, MT-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
As a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and board certified music therapist (MT-BC), I have over 22 years of experience supporting people through creative therapies as well as psychotherapy (talk therapy) and EMDR.
Transitions. Grief. Loss. Fear. Change. Whether it is from the death of a loved one, divorce or marital discord, the coming out process, being diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness, or adjusting to significant life changes: support can be a critical component of healing. I believe you already have everything you need within you to move through this. My focus is to collaborate with you in the exploration of feelings, cultivating your strengths, and creating/defining new coping skills to navigate this challenging time.
As a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and board certified music therapist (MT-BC), I have over 22 years of experience supporting people through creative therapies as well as psychotherapy (talk therapy) and EMDR.
Transitions. Grief. Loss. Fear. Change. Whether it is from the death of a loved one, divorce or marital discord, the coming out process, being diagnosed with a chronic or terminal illness, or adjusting to significant life changes: support can be a critical component of healing. I believe you already have everything you need within you to move through this. My focus is to collaborate with you in the exploration of feelings, cultivating your strengths, and creating/defining new coping skills to navigate this challenging time.
(862) 404-1092 View (862) 404-1092
Photo of Allison Zeis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Zeis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I am also trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I have completed a 12-course Adoption Certificate Program.
"When there are no enemies within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you". ~ancient African proverb~ So many suffer everyday in silence because of their own negative inner voice. Whether you are struggling due to anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, loss, or for any other reason, know that you do not have to suffer forever and that change is possible. I work with children, adolescents, adults and families helping each to bring their strengths into focus and harmony back into their family lives.
I am also trained in EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I have completed a 12-course Adoption Certificate Program.
"When there are no enemies within, the enemies outside cannot hurt you". ~ancient African proverb~ So many suffer everyday in silence because of their own negative inner voice. Whether you are struggling due to anxiety, depression, trauma, family conflict, loss, or for any other reason, know that you do not have to suffer forever and that change is possible. I work with children, adolescents, adults and families helping each to bring their strengths into focus and harmony back into their family lives.
(973) 755-2383 View (973) 755-2383
Photo of Karen Anderson, MSW, LCSW
Karen Anderson
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
With a background in crisis management, school-based settings, and hospice care, Karen is skilled in providing EMDR, person-centered, strengths-based, and evidence-based interventions such as CBT, and DBT.
Karen’s experience includes assisting clients of all ages to work on anxiety, depression, divorce/separation, life transitions, death and dying, grief, trauma, and perinatal concerns. Karen has an extensive background in hospice work, crisis management as well as working in a school-based setting working with children, adolescents and teens. Karen’s goals are to work with clients to help them feel comfortable, respected and heard. In return, Karen will be open, encouraging and direct.
With a background in crisis management, school-based settings, and hospice care, Karen is skilled in providing EMDR, person-centered, strengths-based, and evidence-based interventions such as CBT, and DBT.
Karen’s experience includes assisting clients of all ages to work on anxiety, depression, divorce/separation, life transitions, death and dying, grief, trauma, and perinatal concerns. Karen has an extensive background in hospice work, crisis management as well as working in a school-based setting working with children, adolescents and teens. Karen’s goals are to work with clients to help them feel comfortable, respected and heard. In return, Karen will be open, encouraging and direct.
(862) 352-7492 View (862) 352-7492
Photo of Valerie Concepcion, LCSW, SEP, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Valerie Concepcion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834  (Online Only)
As a yoga teacher and therapist, integrating Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and/or EMDR into session can provide a comprehensive approach to healing trauma by combining body-centered techniques, internal exploration and trauma processing.
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma therapy and perinatal mental health. With over 15 years of experience and a deep passion for helping individuals overcome the effects of trauma, I am committed to providing a safe and compassionate space for healing and growth. My treatment approach is supportive and empathic, yet challenging, as a way to reach your treatment goals.
As a yoga teacher and therapist, integrating Somatic Experiencing, Internal Family Systems (IFS) and/or EMDR into session can provide a comprehensive approach to healing trauma by combining body-centered techniques, internal exploration and trauma processing.
I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma therapy and perinatal mental health. With over 15 years of experience and a deep passion for helping individuals overcome the effects of trauma, I am committed to providing a safe and compassionate space for healing and growth. My treatment approach is supportive and empathic, yet challenging, as a way to reach your treatment goals.
(862) 206-5866 View (862) 206-5866
Photo of Jillian Esposito - Roque Mental Health Counseling LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roque Mental Health Counseling LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I am a certified TF-CBT clinician, trained in EMDR, and I am trauma informed.
I am a clinical social worker, and owner of Roque Mental Health Counseling, LLC. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, and familial difficulties. My goal is to help each person I meet with to recognize their strengths and help them to advocate for their needs effectively. I spend time building a positive relationship with everyone I work with, my top priority is your positive experience and feeling of safety. I believe the therapeutic relationship is collaborative, and my focus is to help guide you towards the life you want, with the goals you identify.
I am a certified TF-CBT clinician, trained in EMDR, and I am trauma informed.
I am a clinical social worker, and owner of Roque Mental Health Counseling, LLC. I specialize in working with individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, and familial difficulties. My goal is to help each person I meet with to recognize their strengths and help them to advocate for their needs effectively. I spend time building a positive relationship with everyone I work with, my top priority is your positive experience and feeling of safety. I believe the therapeutic relationship is collaborative, and my focus is to help guide you towards the life you want, with the goals you identify.
(862) 212-0792 View (862) 212-0792
Photo of Judith A. Hancox, MSW, LCSW, BCETS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Judith A. Hancox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCETS
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I specialize in EMDR, Energy Psychology, Gestalt Therapy, and I'm certified in Brian Weiss' Past LIfe Regression Therapy, and Repair and Reattachment Grief Therapy (see judithhancox.
I am a Holistic Psychotherapist and Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of PTSD and trauma. Having worked with special needs children and adults for over 30 years, I find my background as a Yoga, Meditation and Philosophy Teacher, and Minister of LifeSpirit (Holistic and Health-Freedom Based Church) is well suited to those who seek a holistic approach to healing. Shiome Therapy is my trademark, interweaving ancient and modern techniques in a safe and effective way, without the use of chemical substances. I enjoy the positive transformational healing experience with each and every client!
I specialize in EMDR, Energy Psychology, Gestalt Therapy, and I'm certified in Brian Weiss' Past LIfe Regression Therapy, and Repair and Reattachment Grief Therapy (see judithhancox.
I am a Holistic Psychotherapist and Social Worker who specializes in the treatment of PTSD and trauma. Having worked with special needs children and adults for over 30 years, I find my background as a Yoga, Meditation and Philosophy Teacher, and Minister of LifeSpirit (Holistic and Health-Freedom Based Church) is well suited to those who seek a holistic approach to healing. Shiome Therapy is my trademark, interweaving ancient and modern techniques in a safe and effective way, without the use of chemical substances. I enjoy the positive transformational healing experience with each and every client!
(973) 476-3648 View (973) 476-3648
Photo of Tara Devine, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tara Devine
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I utilize EMDR to manage your trauma responses.
Trauma specialist dedicated to helping individuals and families cope with trauma symptoms. I am driven to help heal the mind and body from trauma responses.
I utilize EMDR to manage your trauma responses.
Trauma specialist dedicated to helping individuals and families cope with trauma symptoms. I am driven to help heal the mind and body from trauma responses.
(973) 791-7691 View (973) 791-7691
Photo of Jolene Winsor, MA,  LAC,  CTP, MAT
Jolene Winsor
Associate Counselor, MA, LAC, CTP, MAT
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834  (Online Only)
In order to support you to address thought processes, feelings, and sensations linked to distressing events I integrate a variety of interventions including: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), grief counseling, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Do you find yourself feeling isolated in your feelings or struggles, like no one quite understands? Have you suffered a loss or experienced a life change that has resulted in grief? Do you feel as if you should have “moved on” by now or are “stuck”? Do your struggles prevent you from feeling as if you can be fully present and enjoy your life as you would like to? Would you like to develop skills to assist in living the life you desire?
In order to support you to address thought processes, feelings, and sensations linked to distressing events I integrate a variety of interventions including: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), grief counseling, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Do you find yourself feeling isolated in your feelings or struggles, like no one quite understands? Have you suffered a loss or experienced a life change that has resulted in grief? Do you feel as if you should have “moved on” by now or are “stuck”? Do your struggles prevent you from feeling as if you can be fully present and enjoy your life as you would like to? Would you like to develop skills to assist in living the life you desire?
(862) 500-4935 View (862) 500-4935
Photo of Gretchen Fry, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gretchen Fry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834  (Online Only)
Are anxiety, addiction or depression a daily problem? Are alcohol, drugs, anger, fighting, communication skills/low self-esteem sabotaging your relationships? Are you in need of individual or couples therapy to help you get back on track? Have you tried unsuccessfully to change, but left sad and frustrated? I can help... I'm a warm, caring and compassionate person. One of a small group of dually licensed clinicians-a Psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor with expertise, such as EMDR and Cognitive Behavior Therapy that I use to neutralize the trauma that often creates relationship or communication problems.
Are anxiety, addiction or depression a daily problem? Are alcohol, drugs, anger, fighting, communication skills/low self-esteem sabotaging your relationships? Are you in need of individual or couples therapy to help you get back on track? Have you tried unsuccessfully to change, but left sad and frustrated? I can help... I'm a warm, caring and compassionate person. One of a small group of dually licensed clinicians-a Psychotherapist and Licensed Clinical Alcohol & Drug Counselor with expertise, such as EMDR and Cognitive Behavior Therapy that I use to neutralize the trauma that often creates relationship or communication problems.
(973) 668-4662 View (973) 668-4662
Photo of Katelyn Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katelyn Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
I have training in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), and motivational interviewing.
In my work with clients my goal is to create a safe space where you can express yourself without judgement. I approach therapy as a space where we work together as a team to help you achieve your goals. Do you feel stuck? Do you feel anxious? Do you want to feel happier with your relationships? These are all things that we can work on together.
I have training in dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), and motivational interviewing.
In my work with clients my goal is to create a safe space where you can express yourself without judgement. I approach therapy as a space where we work together as a team to help you achieve your goals. Do you feel stuck? Do you feel anxious? Do you want to feel happier with your relationships? These are all things that we can work on together.
(862) 357-7586 View (862) 357-7586
Photo of Kelly M. Bossard - Kelly M. Bossard and Walk the Talk Therapy, LLC, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly M. Bossard and Walk the Talk Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I believe in combining the benefits of multiple modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, mindfulness methods, and stress-reduction skills to forge a unique path to healing.
Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn and we need a hand to regain our footing. I am a clinical social worker specializing in trauma and serious mental illness. I offer support for people experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, grief, PTSD, or suicidal thoughts and looking for a path forward. I've learned that healing is a journey of many steps, each one significant and personal. I enjoy working with diverse populations and my practice is anti-oppressive and gender-affirming.
I believe in combining the benefits of multiple modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, mindfulness methods, and stress-reduction skills to forge a unique path to healing.
Sometimes life takes an unexpected turn and we need a hand to regain our footing. I am a clinical social worker specializing in trauma and serious mental illness. I offer support for people experiencing depression, anxiety, stress, grief, PTSD, or suicidal thoughts and looking for a path forward. I've learned that healing is a journey of many steps, each one significant and personal. I enjoy working with diverse populations and my practice is anti-oppressive and gender-affirming.
(973) 381-2447 View (973) 381-2447
Photo of Charlene Armstrong Mayer, MA,  EdS, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlene Armstrong Mayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences.
Trauma results from experiencing distressing events that overwhelm an individual's ability to cope. This can leave them feeling helpless, hopeless, and emotionally out of control. Trauma impacts both the mind and body, and can manifest in various ways, including flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, emotional numbness, and difficulties with relationships. It often disrupts daily functioning and overall well-being. I specialize in helping individuals overcome trauma and build resilience. I am passionate about providing a safe and compassionate space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
I utilize evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Mindfulness to help clients process and heal from traumatic experiences.
Trauma results from experiencing distressing events that overwhelm an individual's ability to cope. This can leave them feeling helpless, hopeless, and emotionally out of control. Trauma impacts both the mind and body, and can manifest in various ways, including flashbacks, nightmares, anxiety, depression, emotional numbness, and difficulties with relationships. It often disrupts daily functioning and overall well-being. I specialize in helping individuals overcome trauma and build resilience. I am passionate about providing a safe and compassionate space for you to explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
(201) 371-4323 View (201) 371-4323
Photo of Brandon Dill, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Dill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I am a Licensed Social Worker and a USMC veteran. I bring nearly a decade of experience to my role as a mental health counselor. My expertise covers a range of areas and populations, including substance abuse, trauma, veterans, first responders, and mood disorders. My objective is to support each person by acknowledging their strengths and effectively expressing their needs. I dedicate time to cultivating positive relationships, prioritizing your positive experience and sense of safety. I approach the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration with a focus on guiding you towards the life you desire based on your identified goals.
I am a Licensed Social Worker and a USMC veteran. I bring nearly a decade of experience to my role as a mental health counselor. My expertise covers a range of areas and populations, including substance abuse, trauma, veterans, first responders, and mood disorders. My objective is to support each person by acknowledging their strengths and effectively expressing their needs. I dedicate time to cultivating positive relationships, prioritizing your positive experience and sense of safety. I approach the therapeutic relationship as a collaboration with a focus on guiding you towards the life you desire based on your identified goals.
(201) 266-3254 View (201) 266-3254
Photo of Laura Irwin Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Irwin Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I believe that we all want to feel heard and understood, and experience feeling whole. These longings are inherent to the human experience. Therapy is an opportunity for me to partner with you to co-create a space that allows for this process to occur. My journey as a social worker started when I was in my 20’s and I have spent much of my life in the helper role. Personally/professionally, I have met all kinds of people, and experienced many circumstances, which have led me to develop strong therapeutic connections with individuals and families. I am non-judgmental and strength-focused, which allows for a safe space during therapy.
I believe that we all want to feel heard and understood, and experience feeling whole. These longings are inherent to the human experience. Therapy is an opportunity for me to partner with you to co-create a space that allows for this process to occur. My journey as a social worker started when I was in my 20’s and I have spent much of my life in the helper role. Personally/professionally, I have met all kinds of people, and experienced many circumstances, which have led me to develop strong therapeutic connections with individuals and families. I am non-judgmental and strength-focused, which allows for a safe space during therapy.
(862) 212-3345 View (862) 212-3345
Photo of Victorie Valspirit Hypnotherapy, CMS-CHt, FIBH
Victorie Valspirit Hypnotherapy
CMS-CHt, FIBH
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I Tori Valspirit, stand for my clients loving themselves, knowing their true values, expecting the best in life, being happy, healthy, strong and prosperous. Understanding that they can make a choice to transform and change their lives and make it all that it can be. As a result of my work as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Teacher and Empowerment Coach knowing that we have the ability to create the lives that we were meant to have. Acknowledging the power within us because it is possible for human kind to experience Heaven on Earth.” Board Certification #F10319-600, Today we have a 93.4% success rate.
I Tori Valspirit, stand for my clients loving themselves, knowing their true values, expecting the best in life, being happy, healthy, strong and prosperous. Understanding that they can make a choice to transform and change their lives and make it all that it can be. As a result of my work as a Clinical Hypnotherapist, Teacher and Empowerment Coach knowing that we have the ability to create the lives that we were meant to have. Acknowledging the power within us because it is possible for human kind to experience Heaven on Earth.” Board Certification #F10319-600, Today we have a 93.4% success rate.
(973) 949-0499 View (973) 949-0499
Photo of Kathryn Griffiths, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Griffiths
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
I opened the Center for Mindful Change, LLC with the knowledge that the reason we have such difficulty changing our life's direction (how many times have we promised ourselves that we won't "ever" over drink, over eat, procrastinate, use anger, let others control us...) is that we are not mindful of our own internal and external energies that drive us to act the way we do. Through your work with me, you will find the personal insight and empowerment to change the way you approach life, meeting stresses and challenges with mindfulness and self-determination for success.
I opened the Center for Mindful Change, LLC with the knowledge that the reason we have such difficulty changing our life's direction (how many times have we promised ourselves that we won't "ever" over drink, over eat, procrastinate, use anger, let others control us...) is that we are not mindful of our own internal and external energies that drive us to act the way we do. Through your work with me, you will find the personal insight and empowerment to change the way you approach life, meeting stresses and challenges with mindfulness and self-determination for success.
(973) 310-2284 View (973) 310-2284
Photo of Janine Heinis - Practical Therapy Network, LLC, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Practical Therapy Network, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834
For therapy inquiries, please email us directly, email located on website www.practherapy.com. Practical Therapy Network's clinical program is Strengths Based and Person Centered, intended to meet our clients where they are. It is our privilege to provide everyone with the integrity and support they deserve. We are practicing in person and virtually.
For therapy inquiries, please email us directly, email located on website www.practherapy.com. Practical Therapy Network's clinical program is Strengths Based and Person Centered, intended to meet our clients where they are. It is our privilege to provide everyone with the integrity and support they deserve. We are practicing in person and virtually.
(973) 453-0807 View (973) 453-0807
Photo of Sarah J Huertas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah J Huertas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Denville, NJ 07834
Life can be overwhelming, and we all can benefit from space to process, and grow from it! I am here to help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of NJ with 16 years of work experience in the mental health field working with teens, adults, healers and spiritual healers. I have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, anger, marital/ relationship stress, narcissistic abuse recovery, addictions, co-dependency, selflove deficit, people pleasing, disconnection from self, self-esteem, and generational challenges.
Life can be overwhelming, and we all can benefit from space to process, and grow from it! I am here to help. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of NJ with 16 years of work experience in the mental health field working with teens, adults, healers and spiritual healers. I have experience working with individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, anger, marital/ relationship stress, narcissistic abuse recovery, addictions, co-dependency, selflove deficit, people pleasing, disconnection from self, self-esteem, and generational challenges.
(862) 375-5123 View (862) 375-5123
Photo of Tricia Best - Intimacy Institute , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Intimacy Institute
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Denville, NJ 07834  (Online Only)
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Experience therapeutic coaching to unlearn circumstantial thinking patterns and expired behaviors and heal your wounds. Sessions incorporate the spiritual, physical, social, intellectual, and emotional areas of wellness. If you feel like you have been stagnant or stuck for a while and want to take your healing to the next level, then this is the place for you! We specialize in individuals, and couples psychotherapy. We incorporate wellness coaching into our practice as well, for men and women medical issues and Generalized Anxiety. I also specialize in aging & end of life healing & grief.
Book with me now by clicking on my website. Experience therapeutic coaching to unlearn circumstantial thinking patterns and expired behaviors and heal your wounds. Sessions incorporate the spiritual, physical, social, intellectual, and emotional areas of wellness. If you feel like you have been stagnant or stuck for a while and want to take your healing to the next level, then this is the place for you! We specialize in individuals, and couples psychotherapy. We incorporate wellness coaching into our practice as well, for men and women medical issues and Generalized Anxiety. I also specialize in aging & end of life healing & grief.
(908) 364-8883 View (908) 364-8883

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dara Mastro, MA, LPC, BCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dara Mastro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BCPC
Verified Verified
Mountain Lakes, NJ 07046
I have found much success with clients using a specific therapeutic approach called EMDR.
Depression, anxiety, and fear are three emotions that can hinder individuals from leading happy, productive lives. I have extensive training in these areas that help my clients to alleviate, if not eliminate the distressing circumstances that cause emotional pain. If you've ever been abused emotionally or physically, have experienced a traumatic event, feel stuck in an unfulfilling relationship, or struggle with daily life stressors, I know I can help you through it.
I have found much success with clients using a specific therapeutic approach called EMDR.
Depression, anxiety, and fear are three emotions that can hinder individuals from leading happy, productive lives. I have extensive training in these areas that help my clients to alleviate, if not eliminate the distressing circumstances that cause emotional pain. If you've ever been abused emotionally or physically, have experienced a traumatic event, feel stuck in an unfulfilling relationship, or struggle with daily life stressors, I know I can help you through it.
(973) 797-9133 View (973) 797-9133
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.