EMDR Therapists in Fairfield, NJ

Photo of Jolene Winsor, MA,  LAC,  CTP, MAT
Jolene Winsor
Associate Counselor, MA, LAC, CTP, MAT
Verified Verified
Fairfield, NJ 07004  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In order to support you to address thought processes, feelings, and sensations linked to distressing events, I integrate a variety of interventions including: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), grief counseling, and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFBT).
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: Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Somatic Experiencing (SE), grief counseling, and Solution-Focused Therapy (SFBT).
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 Michael Greene, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, NJ 07004
I've always been a "people person" but started work in the field of technology. When laid off after 20 years, I saw it as a blessing in disguise, went back to school, and received my Masters of Social Work. I bring a sense of enthusiasm and energy which combined with some of the wisdom I've gained in life help me provide a high quality service to a diverse range of clients. Sessions are specific to each client's needs and can include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness, relaxation techniques and other approaches.
I've always been a "people person" but started work in the field of technology. When laid off after 20 years, I saw it as a blessing in disguise, went back to school, and received my Masters of Social Work. I bring a sense of enthusiasm and energy which combined with some of the wisdom I've gained in life help me provide a high quality service to a diverse range of clients. Sessions are specific to each client's needs and can include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness, relaxation techniques and other approaches.
(516) 252-1340 View (516) 252-1340
Photo of Kristen Hanisch - Hanisch Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hanisch Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fairfield, NJ 07004
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Is your relationship struggling, or are you facing challenging life transitions? At Hanisch Counseling Services, we understand that you seek relief from emotional distress and desire a more fulfilling & balanced life. We have a staff of highly qualified clinicians that works with individuals/families including, but not limited to, child + teen therapy, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse, sexual behaviors, mood disorders, anger management, and caregiver stressors.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety or depression? Is your relationship struggling, or are you facing challenging life transitions? At Hanisch Counseling Services, we understand that you seek relief from emotional distress and desire a more fulfilling & balanced life. We have a staff of highly qualified clinicians that works with individuals/families including, but not limited to, child + teen therapy, trauma, anxiety, depression, grief, substance abuse, sexual behaviors, mood disorders, anger management, and caregiver stressors.
(973) 310-5291 View (973) 310-5291
Photo of Kristen Hanisch, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Hanisch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Fairfield, NJ 07004
Are you a parent seeking effective and efficient therapy solutions for your child's anxiety, self-regulation, or behavioral management? Our intensive therapy treatments are specifically designed for children ages 5-16 who are experiencing "big feelings". My intensive therapy program offers tailored support to help children develop essential skills for emotional regulation and resilience, utilizing a solution-focused approach.
Are you a parent seeking effective and efficient therapy solutions for your child's anxiety, self-regulation, or behavioral management? Our intensive therapy treatments are specifically designed for children ages 5-16 who are experiencing "big feelings". My intensive therapy program offers tailored support to help children develop essential skills for emotional regulation and resilience, utilizing a solution-focused approach.
(973) 834-0068 View (973) 834-0068
Photo of Wendy C Kaplan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy C Kaplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fairfield, NJ 07004
I treat depression, anxiety, relationships, disappointments and losses, parenting, couples, individuals and families. Conflict and distress can stem from many sources-life upheavals, separation, divorce, trauma, death, unexpected disappointments, mourning what we have lost or never had. Therapy is a process of Self discovery-understanding what makes you-you and Your unique personal issues. My role is to help you unlock whatever has or is preventing you from reaching your personal goals and the quality of life you desire. Together we will explore pathways to change or acceptance to free you to move forward..
I treat depression, anxiety, relationships, disappointments and losses, parenting, couples, individuals and families. Conflict and distress can stem from many sources-life upheavals, separation, divorce, trauma, death, unexpected disappointments, mourning what we have lost or never had. Therapy is a process of Self discovery-understanding what makes you-you and Your unique personal issues. My role is to help you unlock whatever has or is preventing you from reaching your personal goals and the quality of life you desire. Together we will explore pathways to change or acceptance to free you to move forward..
(973) 607-2214 View (973) 607-2214
Photo of Dr. Saima Sandhu, MS-MA, PhD, LPC, ACS, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Saima Sandhu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS-MA, PhD, LPC, ACS, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fairfield, NJ 07004
Not accepting new clients
There are a multitude of methods available, most recently as EMDR trained therapist I can help the client to resolve the all types of trauma .
In a world plagued with problems, it can seem as though solutions don't exist, but I am convinced that all problems have answers. People are unique and a treatment plan is needed to address each individual's unique problems. I use an integrated approach to treating patients. My background (MPhil degree) in genetics gives me an edge; help me to understand behaviors and problems at an inheritance level. As a scholar I approach problems with scientific method and look at the cause and effect of all problems before coming with an appropriate solution.
There are a multitude of methods available, most recently as EMDR trained therapist I can help the client to resolve the all types of trauma .
In a world plagued with problems, it can seem as though solutions don't exist, but I am convinced that all problems have answers. People are unique and a treatment plan is needed to address each individual's unique problems. I use an integrated approach to treating patients. My background (MPhil degree) in genetics gives me an edge; help me to understand behaviors and problems at an inheritance level. As a scholar I approach problems with scientific method and look at the cause and effect of all problems before coming with an appropriate solution.
(551) 224-0203 View (551) 224-0203

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Judith Gurtman, PhD, ABPP, Psychologist
Judith Gurtman
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I am a psychologist and psychoanalyst with over thirty years of experience. I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, depression and relational conflicts. Many of the clients that I see have relational difficulties. Through a collaborative process, clients learn what interferes with initiating and maintaining relationships. I also use EMDR and Somatic Experience when it is appropriate.
I am a psychologist and psychoanalyst with over thirty years of experience. I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, depression and relational conflicts. Many of the clients that I see have relational difficulties. Through a collaborative process, clients learn what interferes with initiating and maintaining relationships. I also use EMDR and Somatic Experience when it is appropriate.
(973) 227-1668 View (973) 227-1668
Photo of Maggie Ross, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maggie Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Caldwell, NJ 07006  (Online Only)
Welcome! It takes strength to reach out for support. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and certified school counselor, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. Together we will work to develop the insight, skills, and tools you’ll need to achieve your goals. As a therapist who values a holistic approach, I work to provide a safe, brave space for you to explore the ways you want to grow, heal and feel empowered in your life. I am trained and have experience in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Welcome! It takes strength to reach out for support. As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and certified school counselor, I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship. Together we will work to develop the insight, skills, and tools you’ll need to achieve your goals. As a therapist who values a holistic approach, I work to provide a safe, brave space for you to explore the ways you want to grow, heal and feel empowered in your life. I am trained and have experience in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy (TF-CBT), and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
(973) 310-5517 View (973) 310-5517
Photo of Laura Holland, LPC, ATR, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Holland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Caldwell, NJ 07006
My goal is to support you in finding meaning and being more present in your life, utilizing a holistic approach that fits your unique strengths, needs, and culture. I am passionate about supporting teens, adults, and couples through this client-lead, goal-oriented approach. I am a counselor, art therapist, and certified in EMDR. These approaches allow me to meet a wide array of client needs, from day-to-day stress and anxiety, to the healing of deep trauma wounds or other stuck points as we expand toward your new areas of growth. Together, we will focus on your strengths to create a plan that feels supportive and achievable for you.
My goal is to support you in finding meaning and being more present in your life, utilizing a holistic approach that fits your unique strengths, needs, and culture. I am passionate about supporting teens, adults, and couples through this client-lead, goal-oriented approach. I am a counselor, art therapist, and certified in EMDR. These approaches allow me to meet a wide array of client needs, from day-to-day stress and anxiety, to the healing of deep trauma wounds or other stuck points as we expand toward your new areas of growth. Together, we will focus on your strengths to create a plan that feels supportive and achievable for you.
(973) 791-8508 View (973) 791-8508
Photo of George Askins, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
George Askins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Caldwell, NJ 07006  (Online Only)
My approach to trauma therapy is integrative, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Psychology and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques.
Welcome to Higher Purpose Counseling! I'm George Askins, a licensed professional counselor specializing in trauma. I'm dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives from anxiety, depression, flashbacks, and racing thoughts, as well as a wide range of other mental health concerns. I specialize in treating various forms of trauma, including PTSD, childhood trauma, sexual assault and domestic violence.
My approach to trauma therapy is integrative, drawing from evidence-based modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Somatic Psychology and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction techniques.
Welcome to Higher Purpose Counseling! I'm George Askins, a licensed professional counselor specializing in trauma. I'm dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their lives from anxiety, depression, flashbacks, and racing thoughts, as well as a wide range of other mental health concerns. I specialize in treating various forms of trauma, including PTSD, childhood trauma, sexual assault and domestic violence.
(862) 599-3396 View (862) 599-3396
Photo of Felicia Horne, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Felicia Horne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I have been trained in EFT, EMDR, and Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy.
Welcome! I focus on approaching therapy from a dynamically holistic and healing perspective that focuses on developing new strategies to integrate into daily living. I'm dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and assisting individuals and couples to enter a place of self-compassion and growth by activating their internal and external resources. I believe each person holds the answers to transformation within and my role serves as a helpful guide on your journey. The process is about surrender, relief, healing & restoration. I have also co-authored a self-compassion workbook that I incorporate in our work to support growth.
I have been trained in EFT, EMDR, and Heart-Centered Hypnotherapy.
Welcome! I focus on approaching therapy from a dynamically holistic and healing perspective that focuses on developing new strategies to integrate into daily living. I'm dedicated to creating a safe space for healing and assisting individuals and couples to enter a place of self-compassion and growth by activating their internal and external resources. I believe each person holds the answers to transformation within and my role serves as a helpful guide on your journey. The process is about surrender, relief, healing & restoration. I have also co-authored a self-compassion workbook that I incorporate in our work to support growth.
(201) 340-9523 View (201) 340-9523
Photo of Wendy Newman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Caldwell, NJ 07006
In addition to psychodynamic therapy techniques I am trained in EMDR and Somatic Experiencing.
People engage in therapy because they are seeking relief from uncomfortable feelings that may have arisen from being overwhelmed with what life has handed them. Many are grappling with relationship challenges, feelings of being stuck, self-defeating behaviors, anxieties, phobias and issues of self-esteem. Others are experiencing physical symptoms which have been diagnosed as being rooted in psychological turmoil, also known as psychophysiologic disorders, or TMS.
In addition to psychodynamic therapy techniques I am trained in EMDR and Somatic Experiencing.
People engage in therapy because they are seeking relief from uncomfortable feelings that may have arisen from being overwhelmed with what life has handed them. Many are grappling with relationship challenges, feelings of being stuck, self-defeating behaviors, anxieties, phobias and issues of self-esteem. Others are experiencing physical symptoms which have been diagnosed as being rooted in psychological turmoil, also known as psychophysiologic disorders, or TMS.
(973) 512-4362 View (973) 512-4362
Photo of Lisa LaBrunda, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa LaBrunda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Caldwell, NJ 07006
One of my most powerful tools in my toolbox is EMDR.
Contacting a therapist can be a difficult decision to make. You may already be exhausted by whatever life challenge that now leads you to seek help. Please, know that the hardest part will be getting yourself through my door. The hardest part of my job is usually to guide you in taking self judgement out of the equation and replacing it with empathy and patience. Kindness that you likely only reserve for others other than yourself.
One of my most powerful tools in my toolbox is EMDR.
Contacting a therapist can be a difficult decision to make. You may already be exhausted by whatever life challenge that now leads you to seek help. Please, know that the hardest part will be getting yourself through my door. The hardest part of my job is usually to guide you in taking self judgement out of the equation and replacing it with empathy and patience. Kindness that you likely only reserve for others other than yourself.
(973) 951-0297 View (973) 951-0297
Photo of Judy Clyman, PhD, Psychologist
Judy Clyman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North Caldwell, NJ 07006
I am trained in EMDR to treat trauma and /or build on character strengths and virtues.
Do you feel stuck in your life? Perhaps you experience feelings of depression, anxiety or loneliness. These feelings may be in reaction to problems at work or disappointments in relationships. You may want to connect more with your own wishes and needs so that you can experience engagement in life, and happiness in relationships. Psychotherapy is a journey that can benefit and enrich oneself. The freedom to express painful feelings, in a safe relationship, opens up the possibility of understanding conflicts and experiencing positive emotions, that make life worth living.
I am trained in EMDR to treat trauma and /or build on character strengths and virtues.
Do you feel stuck in your life? Perhaps you experience feelings of depression, anxiety or loneliness. These feelings may be in reaction to problems at work or disappointments in relationships. You may want to connect more with your own wishes and needs so that you can experience engagement in life, and happiness in relationships. Psychotherapy is a journey that can benefit and enrich oneself. The freedom to express painful feelings, in a safe relationship, opens up the possibility of understanding conflicts and experiencing positive emotions, that make life worth living.
(973) 509-8195 View (973) 509-8195
Photo of Lisa Bracamonte - Corner Psychological Services, LLC, Psy D, Psychologist
Corner Psychological Services, LLC
Psychologist, Psy D
Verified Verified
West Caldwell, NJ 07006
I offer a holistic integration of mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and EMDR to foster healing and growth.
At Corner Psychological Services, LLC, it's my goal to help you make your corner of the world the very best that it can be. I individualize my approach make sure that your unique history is acknowledged and respected. I have a wide variety of experience with children and adults of all ability levels and am well-versed in educational and psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I address trauma, anxiety, and living with the symptoms of ADHD or other disorders.
I offer a holistic integration of mindfulness, cognitive-behavioral strategies, and EMDR to foster healing and growth.
At Corner Psychological Services, LLC, it's my goal to help you make your corner of the world the very best that it can be. I individualize my approach make sure that your unique history is acknowledged and respected. I have a wide variety of experience with children and adults of all ability levels and am well-versed in educational and psychological assessments. Therapeutically, I address trauma, anxiety, and living with the symptoms of ADHD or other disorders.
(862) 355-3149 View (862) 355-3149
Photo of Kathy Lutz, LCSW, LCADC, CTRI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy Lutz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC, CTRI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
North Caldwell, NJ 07006  (Online Only)
If addiction has taken over your life, now is the time to do something about it. Life is too short to be unhappy. I offer a warm, confidential environment to help you find the clarity you need to break the cycle of addiction so you and those around you may lead happier lives. I also offer help for co-occurring issues: mood regulation, anxiety, anger management, trauma, and high functioning autism. I am trained in EMDR, Mindfulness Practices and Stress Reduction. In addition, I frequently work in consultation with other therapists' clients, providing EMDR and substance abuse assessments and treatment.
If addiction has taken over your life, now is the time to do something about it. Life is too short to be unhappy. I offer a warm, confidential environment to help you find the clarity you need to break the cycle of addiction so you and those around you may lead happier lives. I also offer help for co-occurring issues: mood regulation, anxiety, anger management, trauma, and high functioning autism. I am trained in EMDR, Mindfulness Practices and Stress Reduction. In addition, I frequently work in consultation with other therapists' clients, providing EMDR and substance abuse assessments and treatment.
(201) 870-4294 View (201) 870-4294
Photo of Shannon Santoro, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Santoro
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pine Brook, NJ 07058
I utilize cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic approaches and am also trained in EMDR which can be helpful with treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
If you have aspects of your life that you would like to see improve or change, then you are in the right place. Almost everyone has things in their life that they would like to see change and therapy provides a great safe space for this. Together, we can work to help you gain insight into behavior patterns, which may be holding you back from living the life you want. We can also work to help you develop new coping skills and identify triggers to anxiety, depression, and anger.
I utilize cognitive-behavioral, psychodynamic approaches and am also trained in EMDR which can be helpful with treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues.
If you have aspects of your life that you would like to see improve or change, then you are in the right place. Almost everyone has things in their life that they would like to see change and therapy provides a great safe space for this. Together, we can work to help you gain insight into behavior patterns, which may be holding you back from living the life you want. We can also work to help you develop new coping skills and identify triggers to anxiety, depression, and anger.
(973) 287-4189 View (973) 287-4189
Photo of Jennifer McAuley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer McAuley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pine Brook, NJ 07058
Waitlist for new clients
I also treat anxiety, OCD and relationship issues, using modalities that include EMDR, CBT and psychoanalytic therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing for 23 years. As a certified EMDR therapist, I assist in helping women and men heal from acute and complex trauma. In addition to the many years of clinical practice, I am a certified Reiki practitioner and was recently trained in sound healing and Polyvagal Theory. I believe that when possible, utilizing both clinical and holistic approaches provides the mind/body connection that creates greater success in the healing journey. I have experience working with all ages, with focus on adult and adolescent treatment.
I also treat anxiety, OCD and relationship issues, using modalities that include EMDR, CBT and psychoanalytic therapy.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been practicing for 23 years. As a certified EMDR therapist, I assist in helping women and men heal from acute and complex trauma. In addition to the many years of clinical practice, I am a certified Reiki practitioner and was recently trained in sound healing and Polyvagal Theory. I believe that when possible, utilizing both clinical and holistic approaches provides the mind/body connection that creates greater success in the healing journey. I have experience working with all ages, with focus on adult and adolescent treatment.
(973) 794-6565 x7 View (973) 794-6565 x7
Photo of Michele L Shropshire - MLPsych , LCSW, MSEd, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MLPsych
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wayne, NJ 07470  (Online Only)
I'm Dr. Michele L. Shropshire, the founder of MLPsych. I specialize in helping my clients process traumatic events, relieving them of symptoms that have been a significant block in their lives through Trauma Focus-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Somatic Therapy. I provide therapy through a HIPAA-compliant telemental health platform. Using a holistic approach, I focus on people who have experienced trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship difficulties, Life/career concerns.
I'm Dr. Michele L. Shropshire, the founder of MLPsych. I specialize in helping my clients process traumatic events, relieving them of symptoms that have been a significant block in their lives through Trauma Focus-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Somatic Therapy. I provide therapy through a HIPAA-compliant telemental health platform. Using a holistic approach, I focus on people who have experienced trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, relationship difficulties, Life/career concerns.
(862) 418-5854 View (862) 418-5854
Photo of Suzanne Farkas, MFA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Farkas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MFA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Caldwell, NJ 07006
I have enormous respect for those who ask for help: it's a true sign of strength. I consider being a therapist a privilege and admire my clients who vulnerably reveal themselves and their experiences in order to grow and heal. Therapy is most successful when there is a good connection between therapist and client. It's important to find a therapist that you like, trust, and respect. If we are a good fit, we can make great changes!
I have enormous respect for those who ask for help: it's a true sign of strength. I consider being a therapist a privilege and admire my clients who vulnerably reveal themselves and their experiences in order to grow and heal. Therapy is most successful when there is a good connection between therapist and client. It's important to find a therapist that you like, trust, and respect. If we are a good fit, we can make great changes!
(973) 968-5246 View (973) 968-5246
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.