EMDR Therapists in Old Tappan, NJ

Photo of Erica Tait, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Tait
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Old Tappan, NJ 07675
In individual therapy we may incorporate EMDR, Internal Family Systems, meditation, breathwork, sound therapy, somatic experiencing, Reiki, yogic and shamanic technology, and CBT.
A profound near-death experience sparked my search for meaning and purpose in life, and has inspired me to guide others on their own journey toward healing and transformation. I specialize in working with the highly-sensitive person–those who feel everything strongly, but may be unsure of how to manage those emotions. Anxiety, self-doubt, perfectionism, and relationship issues are just some of what we can experience when we are out of alignment with our True Self. We may turn to all sorts of distractions, unhealthy relationships or addictions, to cope with what is fundamentally a feeling of discomfort within our own skin.
In individual therapy we may incorporate EMDR, Internal Family Systems, meditation, breathwork, sound therapy, somatic experiencing, Reiki, yogic and shamanic technology, and CBT.
A profound near-death experience sparked my search for meaning and purpose in life, and has inspired me to guide others on their own journey toward healing and transformation. I specialize in working with the highly-sensitive person–those who feel everything strongly, but may be unsure of how to manage those emotions. Anxiety, self-doubt, perfectionism, and relationship issues are just some of what we can experience when we are out of alignment with our True Self. We may turn to all sorts of distractions, unhealthy relationships or addictions, to cope with what is fundamentally a feeling of discomfort within our own skin.
(201) 485-5089 View (201) 485-5089
Photo of Kerri Scully, LPC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kerri Scully
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Old Tappan, NJ 07675  (Online Only)
You are holding it together on the outside, but inside you're teeming with so much worry that you can't sleep. All of the details you need to worry about are running through your head all day long. Some days you are running around getting everything done, and other days you're too exhausted to try to do anything. You can’t remember the last time something was actually fun. Your mind just keeps going a mile a minute, even when you are trying to relax. There are just always so many things to worry about. You just want a minute to breathe for once!
You are holding it together on the outside, but inside you're teeming with so much worry that you can't sleep. All of the details you need to worry about are running through your head all day long. Some days you are running around getting everything done, and other days you're too exhausted to try to do anything. You can’t remember the last time something was actually fun. Your mind just keeps going a mile a minute, even when you are trying to relax. There are just always so many things to worry about. You just want a minute to breathe for once!
(973) 363-2485 View (973) 363-2485
Photo of Krystal Aguayo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Krystal Aguayo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Old Tappan, NJ 07675  (Online Only)
Are you feeling constantly overwhelmed, on edge, or unable to find peace? It might seem like the stress is taking over your life, leaving you exhausted and unsure of how to cope. You don't have to navigate this journey alone. Perhaps you need a safe, understanding space where you can explore your feelings and develop effective strategies to manage these overwhelming emotions. I can help you regain control, find calm amidst the chaos, and build a life where these feelings no longer hold you back. Healing is possible, and you can achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. Let's work together to make that a reality.
Are you feeling constantly overwhelmed, on edge, or unable to find peace? It might seem like the stress is taking over your life, leaving you exhausted and unsure of how to cope. You don't have to navigate this journey alone. Perhaps you need a safe, understanding space where you can explore your feelings and develop effective strategies to manage these overwhelming emotions. I can help you regain control, find calm amidst the chaos, and build a life where these feelings no longer hold you back. Healing is possible, and you can achieve a balanced, fulfilling life. Let's work together to make that a reality.
(551) 465-7504 View (551) 465-7504
Photo of Jessica Trapp, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Trapp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Old Tappan, NJ 07675
Reaching out for help can be difficult. Whether this is your first time seeking help or not, I am happy to work together with you to determine your needs. I enjoy working with individuals who struggle with substance use disorder, codependency, grief & loss, mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, eating disorders and interpersonal relationship issues.
Reaching out for help can be difficult. Whether this is your first time seeking help or not, I am happy to work together with you to determine your needs. I enjoy working with individuals who struggle with substance use disorder, codependency, grief & loss, mood disorders, trauma, PTSD, eating disorders and interpersonal relationship issues.
(201) 817-4902 View (201) 817-4902

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Mary J Jose, LPC, MA, EMDR, CCTP, ADHD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary J Jose
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, EMDR, CCTP, ADHD
Verified Verified
Westwood, NJ 07675
We will employ a variety of evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, ART, CBT, REBT, and EGO states.
Do you ever feel like I used to, thinking that overcoming some elusive, unidentified obstacle would lead to stepping into my best life? Perhaps you recognize its name. Maybe intrusive thoughts persist, accompanied by uncontrollable anger or flashbacks, leaving you uncertain about improvement. Whether you've tried therapy without success or are considering it for the first time, if this resonates with you, you're in the right place!
We will employ a variety of evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, ART, CBT, REBT, and EGO states.
Do you ever feel like I used to, thinking that overcoming some elusive, unidentified obstacle would lead to stepping into my best life? Perhaps you recognize its name. Maybe intrusive thoughts persist, accompanied by uncontrollable anger or flashbacks, leaving you uncertain about improvement. Whether you've tried therapy without success or are considering it for the first time, if this resonates with you, you're in the right place!
(201) 383-8441 View (201) 383-8441
Photo of Abby -Agape- Boxman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abby -Agape- Boxman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oradell, NJ 07649
I offer Sandplay Therapy and/or EMDR, which are significant trauma based interventions.
Asking for help is not a weakness, it is the recognition of self awareness to grow and heal. Do you struggle to manage daily stressors or life quakes from past trauma? Do you need additional tools to navigate uncharted territory? I will honor your space while you bridge the old into the new. We all experience life events differently and individually, so my approach will fit your specific needs. Your story is very personal to you and we can use this to empower your process. Focusing on the things we can change are essential to those we cannot. Let us begin to explore and learn more.
I offer Sandplay Therapy and/or EMDR, which are significant trauma based interventions.
Asking for help is not a weakness, it is the recognition of self awareness to grow and heal. Do you struggle to manage daily stressors or life quakes from past trauma? Do you need additional tools to navigate uncharted territory? I will honor your space while you bridge the old into the new. We all experience life events differently and individually, so my approach will fit your specific needs. Your story is very personal to you and we can use this to empower your process. Focusing on the things we can change are essential to those we cannot. Let us begin to explore and learn more.
(732) 889-7901 View (732) 889-7901
Photo of Brianna Freno, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brianna Freno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westwood, NJ 07675
I specialize in the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy to address symptoms of trauma.
I specialize in Trauma & PTSD, Domestic Violence, and Anxiety. My ideal client is ready to be open and accepting of the therapeutic process, committed to participating and collaborating. My ideal client is looking to either begin or continue their healing journey from the past to gain a more insightful and healthy perspective on life in the now and future.
I specialize in the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy to address symptoms of trauma.
I specialize in Trauma & PTSD, Domestic Violence, and Anxiety. My ideal client is ready to be open and accepting of the therapeutic process, committed to participating and collaborating. My ideal client is looking to either begin or continue their healing journey from the past to gain a more insightful and healthy perspective on life in the now and future.
(551) 350-7851 View (551) 350-7851
Photo of Melissa Cramutolo, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Cramutolo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Westwood, NJ 07675
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
I am trained in many trauma focused therapies that facilitate this deeper healing process - EMDR, Internal Family Systems, NARM, Somatic Experiencing-but above all consider myself to be a relational and relatable therapist who prioritizes the relationship with my clients as the primary healing agent.
Are you tired of experiencing the same patterns and want to heal at the root of your symptoms? I specialize in treating trauma, addictions, and self esteem issues - in particularly with women and teenagers. When my clients first come in, their lives are overrun by fear and insecurities. They carry around deep shame about who they are and never feel quite “good enough”. They want to be confident and heal the patterns that are holding them back but do not know where to start.
(201) 389-2223 View (201) 389-2223
Photo of Ian Laidlaw - Goldfinch Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Goldfinch Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, NJ 07656
Our clinicians specialize in several areas including children and adolescents, couples, families, working with new parents, grief, gender identity, anger, interpersonal relationships, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, boundaries, trauma recovery and use art therapy, somatic therapy, CBT, MBSR, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness and many other techniques.
Goldfinch Counseling is a boutique psychotherapy practice comprised of a small number of highly experienced clinicians trained in a variety of specialty areas. We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments and can assist with insurance reimbursement.
Our clinicians specialize in several areas including children and adolescents, couples, families, working with new parents, grief, gender identity, anger, interpersonal relationships, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, boundaries, trauma recovery and use art therapy, somatic therapy, CBT, MBSR, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness and many other techniques.
Goldfinch Counseling is a boutique psychotherapy practice comprised of a small number of highly experienced clinicians trained in a variety of specialty areas. We offer both in-person and telehealth appointments and can assist with insurance reimbursement.
(551) 282-9967 View (551) 282-9967
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
1 Endorsed
Park Ridge, NJ 07656  (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 Renee Caronia, LPC, LCADC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renee Caronia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCADC, ACS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hillsdale, NJ 07642
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, addiction, and co-occurring disorders. I emphasize establishing strong therapeutic relationships founded on trust and safety. My approach integrates person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and EMDR, tailored to each individual's needs. My dedication, insight, and compassion guide clients towards healing and personal growth. By fostering a supportive and empathetic environment, I empower clients to explore their challenges and achieve meaningful, lasting change.
I specialize in working with adolescents and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, life transitions, addiction, and co-occurring disorders. I emphasize establishing strong therapeutic relationships founded on trust and safety. My approach integrates person-centered therapy, cognitive-behavioral techniques, motivational interviewing, and EMDR, tailored to each individual's needs. My dedication, insight, and compassion guide clients towards healing and personal growth. By fostering a supportive and empathetic environment, I empower clients to explore their challenges and achieve meaningful, lasting change.
(201) 989-0002 View (201) 989-0002
Photo of Chris Warren-Dickins, LLB, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chris Warren-Dickins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLB, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oradell, NJ 07649  (Online Only)
I am a psychotherapist who specializes in burnout, loneliness, and powerlessness; three of the most pressing issues when it comes to our mental health. I offer a Polyvagal-informed approach to psychotherapy, and I make use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy ( EMDR). This combined approach can help you understand your nervous system and why your body and mind make you feel a certain way in certain situations.
I am a psychotherapist who specializes in burnout, loneliness, and powerlessness; three of the most pressing issues when it comes to our mental health. I offer a Polyvagal-informed approach to psychotherapy, and I make use of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy ( EMDR). This combined approach can help you understand your nervous system and why your body and mind make you feel a certain way in certain situations.
(551) 237-8193 View (551) 237-8193
Photo of Benjamin Oosting, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Benjamin Oosting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsdale, NJ 07642
I provide an evidence- and experience-based, compassionate, non-judgmental environment as part of this process, utilizing the insight-oriented work of IFS and EMDR, as well as breath, body, and cognitive work, and mindfulness practices.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with advanced training in Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and Trauma and Stress Reduction. I provide trauma-informed, general psychotherapy for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, family, work, and academic problems, and those who wish to resolve traumatic events, sexual abuse, and/or domestic abuse. People have varying reasons to seek therapy, but generally they are experiencing discomfort in one or more areas of their everyday life. This discomfort may be experienced as depression, anxiety, anger, sleeping and eating problems, compulsive behaviors, and/or relationship issues.
I provide an evidence- and experience-based, compassionate, non-judgmental environment as part of this process, utilizing the insight-oriented work of IFS and EMDR, as well as breath, body, and cognitive work, and mindfulness practices.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with advanced training in Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and Trauma and Stress Reduction. I provide trauma-informed, general psychotherapy for adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, family, work, and academic problems, and those who wish to resolve traumatic events, sexual abuse, and/or domestic abuse. People have varying reasons to seek therapy, but generally they are experiencing discomfort in one or more areas of their everyday life. This discomfort may be experienced as depression, anxiety, anger, sleeping and eating problems, compulsive behaviors, and/or relationship issues.
(201) 584-4205 View (201) 584-4205
Photo of Amanda Wasserman, LCSW, PMH-C, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Wasserman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
Through a highly individualized process, we may use EMDR, IFS and inner child healing to achieve a state of empowerment, authenticity & inner peace.
If you often feel taken for granted, resentful, emotionally exhausted, under-appreciated, or left feeling guilty when saying no to others it is likely that your boundaries are often crossed. Do you often find yourself over-explaining, feeling guilty if people are disappointed with you or not wanting to rock the boat? One of the most painful tasks in relationships is setting and maintaining healthy boundaries. We all have an internal gauge for how much to give or take. Nonetheless, when we were raised on not having emotional needs, setting boundaries becomes very taxing and confusing because we learned how to hide our feelings.
Through a highly individualized process, we may use EMDR, IFS and inner child healing to achieve a state of empowerment, authenticity & inner peace.
If you often feel taken for granted, resentful, emotionally exhausted, under-appreciated, or left feeling guilty when saying no to others it is likely that your boundaries are often crossed. Do you often find yourself over-explaining, feeling guilty if people are disappointed with you or not wanting to rock the boat? One of the most painful tasks in relationships is setting and maintaining healthy boundaries. We all have an internal gauge for how much to give or take. Nonetheless, when we were raised on not having emotional needs, setting boundaries becomes very taxing and confusing because we learned how to hide our feelings.
(551) 214-1715 View (551) 214-1715
Photo of David S. Wilde - Leading Edge Therapy & Coaching, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leading Edge Therapy & Coaching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
I integrate the most effective approaches to mental health, marital, teen, family & addiction challenges. I blend traditional with cutting edge and provide concrete tools, practical advice, and spiritual guidance, creating lasting change and healing. For 28 years, I have helped countless people struggling with depression, anxiety, ADD, trauma, low self-esteem, anger management, and with marriage, sexuality, family, teen & parenting challenges. In testimonials I have been described as "having vast knowledge"; "a very down to earth guy who puts you at ease almost instantly; as having "laser-sharp" perceptions; & "an old soul ."
I integrate the most effective approaches to mental health, marital, teen, family & addiction challenges. I blend traditional with cutting edge and provide concrete tools, practical advice, and spiritual guidance, creating lasting change and healing. For 28 years, I have helped countless people struggling with depression, anxiety, ADD, trauma, low self-esteem, anger management, and with marriage, sexuality, family, teen & parenting challenges. In testimonials I have been described as "having vast knowledge"; "a very down to earth guy who puts you at ease almost instantly; as having "laser-sharp" perceptions; & "an old soul ."
(845) 262-2179 View (845) 262-2179
Photo of Dr. Jerry Opthof, PsyD, LPC, LCADC, NCC, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Jerry Opthof
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LPC, LCADC, NCC, CSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Oradell, NJ 07649
Are you facing obstacles in your relationships, work, and/or education? These obstacles may be, feeling stuck; general unhappiness; sadness; high anxiety; anger; low motivation; confusion; and difficulty adjusting after a disappointment, failure, or loss. You do not have to hit bottom for the change to begin. You have taken the first step by looking for help. I am a licensed therapist who uses the most effective methods available for improving your mood, reducing your stress or improving your relationships. I help you find solutions to a wide range of life challenges.
Are you facing obstacles in your relationships, work, and/or education? These obstacles may be, feeling stuck; general unhappiness; sadness; high anxiety; anger; low motivation; confusion; and difficulty adjusting after a disappointment, failure, or loss. You do not have to hit bottom for the change to begin. You have taken the first step by looking for help. I am a licensed therapist who uses the most effective methods available for improving your mood, reducing your stress or improving your relationships. I help you find solutions to a wide range of life challenges.
(201) 292-5286 View (201) 292-5286
Photo of Leslie Laskin, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie Laskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, NJ 07656
I am a compassionate and experienced therapist who helps people make positive change in their lives. I work with you to identify your goals and resolve issues that might be preventing you from reaching your potential. My focus is to help you get more of what you want in life. I provide a comfortable and professional atmosphere where you can feel safe and understood while working towards healing and restoration, leaving self limiting thoughts behind.
I am a compassionate and experienced therapist who helps people make positive change in their lives. I work with you to identify your goals and resolve issues that might be preventing you from reaching your potential. My focus is to help you get more of what you want in life. I provide a comfortable and professional atmosphere where you can feel safe and understood while working towards healing and restoration, leaving self limiting thoughts behind.
(914) 297-7130 View (914) 297-7130
Photo of Marianela Cortes, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marianela Cortes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westwood, NJ 07675
Therapy can be a healing and ultimately freeing journey. In my experience, it allows individuals at any age to get in touch with and learn to understand their feelings. In being able to better understand ourselves, we can better recognize not only what prevents us, but also, what allows us to have a more fulfilling life. There is no better feeling as a therapist than seeing your clients realize and embrace their inner strengths, humbling resilience, and acquire the tools to manage their struggles in healthier and more productive ways.
Therapy can be a healing and ultimately freeing journey. In my experience, it allows individuals at any age to get in touch with and learn to understand their feelings. In being able to better understand ourselves, we can better recognize not only what prevents us, but also, what allows us to have a more fulfilling life. There is no better feeling as a therapist than seeing your clients realize and embrace their inner strengths, humbling resilience, and acquire the tools to manage their struggles in healthier and more productive ways.
(201) 581-0861 View (201) 581-0861
Photo of C J DeMarco, LPC, NCC, CCTS-I, Counselor
C J DeMarco
Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodcliff Lake, NJ 07677
As you begin your work toward inner peace and an understanding of yourself, others, and your environment, I am here to provide a safe space in which you will feel supported and encouraged. Whether you are facing life’s transitions and challenges, dealing with difficult relationships, or simply looking for someone to talk to, together we will discover which therapeutic techniques best help you to identify and reach your goals.
As you begin your work toward inner peace and an understanding of yourself, others, and your environment, I am here to provide a safe space in which you will feel supported and encouraged. Whether you are facing life’s transitions and challenges, dealing with difficult relationships, or simply looking for someone to talk to, together we will discover which therapeutic techniques best help you to identify and reach your goals.
(551) 282-1132 View (551) 282-1132
Photo of Renee Kuperinsky, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Renee Kuperinsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
Are you feeling down, anxious, depressed or irritable? Life can be challenging, stressful and overwhelming. Exploring these challenges with an experienced and empathetic psychotherapist has the potential to facilitate growth, change and healing to gain a greater understanding of self and others. I am passionate about helping individuals who experience such problems as anxiety/fears; depression, mood disorders stress, trauma; low self-esteem, poor impulse/anger control; dissatisfaction with job/relationships; work/family issues; marital/parenting issues; bereavement; addiction, sexual identity issues, etc.
Are you feeling down, anxious, depressed or irritable? Life can be challenging, stressful and overwhelming. Exploring these challenges with an experienced and empathetic psychotherapist has the potential to facilitate growth, change and healing to gain a greater understanding of self and others. I am passionate about helping individuals who experience such problems as anxiety/fears; depression, mood disorders stress, trauma; low self-esteem, poor impulse/anger control; dissatisfaction with job/relationships; work/family issues; marital/parenting issues; bereavement; addiction, sexual identity issues, etc.
(201) 252-4452 View (201) 252-4452

See more therapy options for Old Tappan

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.