EMDR Therapists in Township Of Washington, NJ

Photo of C J DeMarco, LPC, NCC, CCTS-I, Counselor
C J DeMarco
Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Township Of Washington, NJ 07676
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

More Therapists Nearby

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 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 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 Benjamin Oosting, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Benjamin Oosting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hillsdale, NJ 07642
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 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 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 Kaijah Bjorklund - Center of Balance Counseling-Kaijah Bjorklund, MFT, LPC, MFT, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Center of Balance Counseling-Kaijah Bjorklund, MFT
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MFT, MS
Verified Verified
Oradell, NJ 07649  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Through cutting-edge therapies like EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), your struggle will morph into something powerful – resilience, growth and well-being.
I specialize in working with adults who are overwhelmed, stressed, or feeling lost and disoriented. If you’re here, you have taken a powerful step towards finding the balance, clarity, and resilience you deserve. You are ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, uncover your true potential and are seeking guidance toward a more authentic life. You need to find the right support to fit your needs. We use a collaborative approach rooted in empowerment to provide support and tools for navigating challenging times.
Through cutting-edge therapies like EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS), your struggle will morph into something powerful – resilience, growth and well-being.
I specialize in working with adults who are overwhelmed, stressed, or feeling lost and disoriented. If you’re here, you have taken a powerful step towards finding the balance, clarity, and resilience you deserve. You are ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery, uncover your true potential and are seeking guidance toward a more authentic life. You need to find the right support to fit your needs. We use a collaborative approach rooted in empowerment to provide support and tools for navigating challenging times.
(551) 209-2346 View (551) 209-2346
Photo of Lisa Ra - Compassionate Life Therapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Compassionate Life Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Closter, NJ 07624  (Online Only)
As an integrative, holistic therapist, I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindful Self-Compassion and Parts Work.
Are you feeling stuck in old, unhealthy patterns in relating to yourself and others? You want relief from feelings of distress and need a safe space to explore and process life issues with a caring and competent counselor? You can use some greater personal awareness and insight, increased skills for managing stress and resolutions to specific problems. You desire increased satisfaction in interpersonal relationships, whether socially or within your family. You can benefit from a trauma-informed and holistic therapist who can integrate various modalities of treatment for the best outcome.
As an integrative, holistic therapist, I draw from a variety of therapeutic approaches including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Mindful Self-Compassion and Parts Work.
Are you feeling stuck in old, unhealthy patterns in relating to yourself and others? You want relief from feelings of distress and need a safe space to explore and process life issues with a caring and competent counselor? You can use some greater personal awareness and insight, increased skills for managing stress and resolutions to specific problems. You desire increased satisfaction in interpersonal relationships, whether socially or within your family. You can benefit from a trauma-informed and holistic therapist who can integrate various modalities of treatment for the best outcome.
(551) 209-1691 View (551) 209-1691
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 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 Charlene Armstrong Mayer, MA,  EdS, LPC, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlene Armstrong Mayer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, EdS, LPC, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
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 Lizette L Corman - Lizette Corman, LCSW, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lizette Corman, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
Oradell, NJ 07649  (Online Only)
My specialty is a down to earth style which recognizes and respects individuality, is grounded in psychodynamic, psychoanalytic and developmental systems theory, and uses an interactive and creative process for Life Coaching, EMDR, role play and dreamwork.
If you have wondered how to access your inate intuition and spirituality to clarify your life's direction, to enhance your good judgement, and to learn life enriching techniques, then our work together can provide a personalized pathway. We can examine behaviors and life patterns, learn to redirect thoughts and actions, and improve life choices, while releasing negative, recurring thoughts. Sadness, loss, and depression as well as grief, trauma, and anxiety can be addressed in a supportive and private environment. Sessions are designed to meet your individual and unique needs..
My specialty is a down to earth style which recognizes and respects individuality, is grounded in psychodynamic, psychoanalytic and developmental systems theory, and uses an interactive and creative process for Life Coaching, EMDR, role play and dreamwork.
If you have wondered how to access your inate intuition and spirituality to clarify your life's direction, to enhance your good judgement, and to learn life enriching techniques, then our work together can provide a personalized pathway. We can examine behaviors and life patterns, learn to redirect thoughts and actions, and improve life choices, while releasing negative, recurring thoughts. Sadness, loss, and depression as well as grief, trauma, and anxiety can be addressed in a supportive and private environment. Sessions are designed to meet your individual and unique needs..
(201) 844-6297 View (201) 844-6297
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 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 Lisa S. Karmin - Lisa S. Karmin, MSW, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa S. Karmin, MSW, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hillsdale, NJ 07642
Making the decision to enter into therapy is often challenging. Choosing the right therapist to work with can make all the difference along that path . If you are experiencing dissatisfaction in your relationships and/ or in your day to day life albeit work or whatever you are engaged in, I am here to help you along your journey. If you are feeling stuck and unhappy with life choices, together we can work towards problem solving and achieving your goals .
Making the decision to enter into therapy is often challenging. Choosing the right therapist to work with can make all the difference along that path . If you are experiencing dissatisfaction in your relationships and/ or in your day to day life albeit work or whatever you are engaged in, I am here to help you along your journey. If you are feeling stuck and unhappy with life choices, together we can work towards problem solving and achieving your goals .
(201) 523-4557 View (201) 523-4557
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 while effecting 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 while effecting 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 Medina Cecunjanin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Medina Cecunjanin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Westwood, NJ 07675
Are you a high-achieving Type A who has accomplished professional success but is struggling? Do you feel disengaged, lonely, negative, and beginning to dislike the person you are becoming? I have specialized training with high-functioning individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and relationship issues. I can help you harness your difficulties by learning how to manage stressors that come up in life and building resilience. I combine strategies from the best in our field, including evidence-based, solution-focused, and exploratory treatment. Simply put, whatever you're going through, I can help.
Are you a high-achieving Type A who has accomplished professional success but is struggling? Do you feel disengaged, lonely, negative, and beginning to dislike the person you are becoming? I have specialized training with high-functioning individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and relationship issues. I can help you harness your difficulties by learning how to manage stressors that come up in life and building resilience. I combine strategies from the best in our field, including evidence-based, solution-focused, and exploratory treatment. Simply put, whatever you're going through, I can help.
(475) 242-0378 View (475) 242-0378
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 Jessica Trapp, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Trapp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Oradell, NJ 07649
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
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 do not 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 do not 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

See more therapy options for Township Of Washington

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.