EMDR Therapists in Buffalo, NY

Photo of Lisa Auricchio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Auricchio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14209
Waitlist for new clients
I use an integrative approach to therapy that incorporates Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based practices.
I understand that it takes a great deal of courage to be vulnerable to others. Some of our life experiences can leave us with feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and self-doubt.  Our responses to suffering and how we try to protect ourselves to avoid future pain can leave us feeling stuck. Despite our best efforts to change, obstacles can be difficult to overcome. I am dedicated to helping you heal, replace harsh self-talk with self-compassion, and connect to the internal strength you already have.
I use an integrative approach to therapy that incorporates Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Schema Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and mindfulness-based practices.
I understand that it takes a great deal of courage to be vulnerable to others. Some of our life experiences can leave us with feelings of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem and self-doubt.  Our responses to suffering and how we try to protect ourselves to avoid future pain can leave us feeling stuck. Despite our best efforts to change, obstacles can be difficult to overcome. I am dedicated to helping you heal, replace harsh self-talk with self-compassion, and connect to the internal strength you already have.
View
Photo of Sarah Michelle Karpinski, LCSW, CSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Michelle Karpinski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14209
I use a variety of evidence based approaches - CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and Energy Resolution Trauma Therapy.
Seeking out help is not an easy thing to do! I use a strengths based approach when guiding you through your wellness journey. I have been working with children, adolescents, adults and families for approximately 20 years. I specialize in helping clients learn to cope with anxiety and depression, improving interpersonal relationships, and improving overall mental health and wellness. One day or day one, the choice is yours.
I use a variety of evidence based approaches - CBT, DBT, Solution Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and Energy Resolution Trauma Therapy.
Seeking out help is not an easy thing to do! I use a strengths based approach when guiding you through your wellness journey. I have been working with children, adolescents, adults and families for approximately 20 years. I specialize in helping clients learn to cope with anxiety and depression, improving interpersonal relationships, and improving overall mental health and wellness. One day or day one, the choice is yours.
(716) 293-2660 View (716) 293-2660
Photo of Latoya Seals, LMHC, Counselor
Latoya Seals
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14223
I utilize a combination of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, REBT and most recently have become EMDR trained.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NYS with 10 years of clinical experience working as a clinician. I have worked with individuals who have had various concerns including: depression, drug and alcohol addiction, anxiety, self-esteem, lifestyle changes, relationship issues, grief and loss, as well as various abuse and traumatic experiences. My counseling style is modern and warm. I believe in engaging in active listening and am a firm believer of treating others with respect and displaying compassion and empathy.
I utilize a combination of therapeutic modalities including CBT, DBT, REBT and most recently have become EMDR trained.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in NYS with 10 years of clinical experience working as a clinician. I have worked with individuals who have had various concerns including: depression, drug and alcohol addiction, anxiety, self-esteem, lifestyle changes, relationship issues, grief and loss, as well as various abuse and traumatic experiences. My counseling style is modern and warm. I believe in engaging in active listening and am a firm believer of treating others with respect and displaying compassion and empathy.
(716) 340-4332 View (716) 340-4332
Photo of Matthew Ryan McCabe, LCSW, CISM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matthew Ryan McCabe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CISM
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14228  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR which has been clinically proven to be effective in the treatment of PTSD.
Hello, my name is Matthew McCabe and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with patients that are struggling with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and can treat trauma symptoms with EMDR. Sometimes I have patients that are at a crossroads and need help solving problems that are paralyzing them in the moment. I will work on helping you obtain more skills that can help you manage situations that your facing. No matter the case, I can ensure that I will do my best to work with you and identify what needs you have and work together with you to find a way forward.
I am trained in EMDR which has been clinically proven to be effective in the treatment of PTSD.
Hello, my name is Matthew McCabe and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I work with patients that are struggling with Depression, Bipolar Disorder, Anxiety, and can treat trauma symptoms with EMDR. Sometimes I have patients that are at a crossroads and need help solving problems that are paralyzing them in the moment. I will work on helping you obtain more skills that can help you manage situations that your facing. No matter the case, I can ensure that I will do my best to work with you and identify what needs you have and work together with you to find a way forward.
(716) 670-5631 x101 View (716) 670-5631 x101
Photo of Ashera DeRosa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashera DeRosa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14213
When it pertains to your intimate life, you deserve nothing less than outstanding, compassionate care. It is an incredibly vulnerable act to open up about your struggles with sexuality. Whether your issues stem from trauma, dysfunction, or secrets, I see you and I hold space for you. Healing is possible, even in the spiciest of circumstances. Alongside traditional talk therapy approaches, I utilize Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting in my approach. I am honored to accompany people in their trauma recovery and am happy to swim in the deep end with you.
When it pertains to your intimate life, you deserve nothing less than outstanding, compassionate care. It is an incredibly vulnerable act to open up about your struggles with sexuality. Whether your issues stem from trauma, dysfunction, or secrets, I see you and I hold space for you. Healing is possible, even in the spiciest of circumstances. Alongside traditional talk therapy approaches, I utilize Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting in my approach. I am honored to accompany people in their trauma recovery and am happy to swim in the deep end with you.
(716) 466-5509 View (716) 466-5509
Photo of Eric M Johnson, LCSW, MS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eric M Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14223
I specialize in treating adults with depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, and addictions by utilizing a blend of therapies including acceptance and commitment, CBT, solution-focused, and EMDR.
I believe that people have an inherent capacity for growth, especially in our most challenging periods of life. One significant way that this growth can be discovered is through psychotherapy. Whether you feel stuck in your past, present, or anticipated future, therapy can not only build awareness, but also offer solutions to ease emotional strife, develop healthier behaviors, and build better connections with yourself and others.
I specialize in treating adults with depression/anxiety, PTSD/trauma, life transitions, and addictions by utilizing a blend of therapies including acceptance and commitment, CBT, solution-focused, and EMDR.
I believe that people have an inherent capacity for growth, especially in our most challenging periods of life. One significant way that this growth can be discovered is through psychotherapy. Whether you feel stuck in your past, present, or anticipated future, therapy can not only build awareness, but also offer solutions to ease emotional strife, develop healthier behaviors, and build better connections with yourself and others.
(716) 317-4528 View (716) 317-4528
Photo of Ryan Phillips, LMHC, Counselor
Ryan Phillips
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14213  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My therapeutic modalities include, but are not limited to: EMDR, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Schema Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Throughout the course of life, one is bound to combat various obstacles. With support and guidance, anyone can overcome these difficulties. Beginning the journey of therapy is a monumental step towards wellness. It requires true vulnerability to allow someone to listen to your experiences. This is one of the reasons I thoroughly enjoy providing therapy. My goal is to assist you in achieving wellness through a collaborative approach designed specifically for you.
My therapeutic modalities include, but are not limited to: EMDR, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Schema Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
Throughout the course of life, one is bound to combat various obstacles. With support and guidance, anyone can overcome these difficulties. Beginning the journey of therapy is a monumental step towards wellness. It requires true vulnerability to allow someone to listen to your experiences. This is one of the reasons I thoroughly enjoy providing therapy. My goal is to assist you in achieving wellness through a collaborative approach designed specifically for you.
(716) 403-0996 View (716) 403-0996
Photo of Melissa Babiarz, MA, LMHC, CASAC, Counselor
Melissa Babiarz
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14216  (Online Only)
I believe all of our life experiences influence our perspective so in 2015 I was trained in EMDR ( a trauma focused modality) as a means of assisting people to address a wide range of underlying issues.
I have been providing addiction and mental health services in the WNY community since 1999. I've worked in a variety of settings starting at local agencies eventually advancing into administration. In 2010 I made the decision to step out of that role and into Private Practice. I am an educator and community trainer. I've had the privilege of working with countless individuals and their families as they address their struggles and reached their triumphs battling various addictions and healing their Trauma. I am insightful, direct and never judgmental.
I believe all of our life experiences influence our perspective so in 2015 I was trained in EMDR ( a trauma focused modality) as a means of assisting people to address a wide range of underlying issues.
I have been providing addiction and mental health services in the WNY community since 1999. I've worked in a variety of settings starting at local agencies eventually advancing into administration. In 2010 I made the decision to step out of that role and into Private Practice. I am an educator and community trainer. I've had the privilege of working with countless individuals and their families as they address their struggles and reached their triumphs battling various addictions and healing their Trauma. I am insightful, direct and never judgmental.
(716) 557-7945 View (716) 557-7945
Photo of Karie Gower, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Karie Gower
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14209
Waitlist for new clients
Specialties include EMDR therapy, IFS-inspired therapy, exploring attachment wounds and somatic experiences, and integrating mindfulness and mind-body connection work.
Everyone deserves time and space to explore and better understand their thoughts, feelings, reactions and behaviors, and to experience inner peace and joy. It is an honor to share space with someone interested in growth and healing. Once we can better understand our past experiences and how they affect us in the present, we have more choices and can make adjustments in our life as we see fit. I believe that you know what is best and have the answers. Through the therapy process, and safely delving into those hurt places, those answers will come to light and help you figure out the best way to care for yourself.
Specialties include EMDR therapy, IFS-inspired therapy, exploring attachment wounds and somatic experiences, and integrating mindfulness and mind-body connection work.
Everyone deserves time and space to explore and better understand their thoughts, feelings, reactions and behaviors, and to experience inner peace and joy. It is an honor to share space with someone interested in growth and healing. Once we can better understand our past experiences and how they affect us in the present, we have more choices and can make adjustments in our life as we see fit. I believe that you know what is best and have the answers. Through the therapy process, and safely delving into those hurt places, those answers will come to light and help you figure out the best way to care for yourself.
(716) 217-6615 View (716) 217-6615
Photo of Cassidy Fleck, LMHC, Counselor
Cassidy Fleck
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14228  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to providing effective and evidence-based counseling to my clients. I love using EMDR and Mindfulness-Based CBT to empower people to break free from old patterns to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor dedicated to providing effective and evidence-based counseling to my clients. I love using EMDR and Mindfulness-Based CBT to empower people to break free from old patterns to lead healthy and fulfilling lives.
(716) 292-5000 View (716) 292-5000
Photo of Christina Polino, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Polino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Schema Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and whole lot of humor to aid you in connecting with your best self.
It takes a tremendous amount of courage to seek help when you are feeling stuck. I'm glad that you took the first step. I believe that you already have everything that you need within you to reach a place of contentment, peace, and well being. It will be my honor to support you in drawing out your gifts as you work through that which is keeping you from living the life you've imagined. My approach is rooted in trust and mutual respect and I believe that together,we will find the most effective ways to get you 'unstuck'.
I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Schema Focused Therapy, Mindfulness and whole lot of humor to aid you in connecting with your best self.
It takes a tremendous amount of courage to seek help when you are feeling stuck. I'm glad that you took the first step. I believe that you already have everything that you need within you to reach a place of contentment, peace, and well being. It will be my honor to support you in drawing out your gifts as you work through that which is keeping you from living the life you've imagined. My approach is rooted in trust and mutual respect and I believe that together,we will find the most effective ways to get you 'unstuck'.
(716) 638-2527 View (716) 638-2527
Photo of Elise A Franco, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elise A Franco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14209
My knowledge in Schema Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 12 step recovery, EMDR and my most recent journey of Maternal Mental Health have allowed me the opportunity to help individuals heal emotionally.
Have you been struggling with feelings of depression, sadness, anxiety? Do you feel “stuck” in your current patterns and feel like you can’t break them? It takes immense courage to ask for help and I would like to walk that journey with you.
My knowledge in Schema Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, 12 step recovery, EMDR and my most recent journey of Maternal Mental Health have allowed me the opportunity to help individuals heal emotionally.
Have you been struggling with feelings of depression, sadness, anxiety? Do you feel “stuck” in your current patterns and feel like you can’t break them? It takes immense courage to ask for help and I would like to walk that journey with you.
(716) 300-2664 View (716) 300-2664
Photo of Jessica Allen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Allen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14223
I strive to meet my clients where they are at without judgment or expectation; to offer a guiding light in the storms of life and provide a safe harbor. My approach to therapy is to provide individuals with a person-centered and strengths-based partnership grounded in trauma-informed evidence-based practices including EMDR, IFS-informed Parts Work, and Animal-Assisted Therapy Interventions.
I strive to meet my clients where they are at without judgment or expectation; to offer a guiding light in the storms of life and provide a safe harbor. My approach to therapy is to provide individuals with a person-centered and strengths-based partnership grounded in trauma-informed evidence-based practices including EMDR, IFS-informed Parts Work, and Animal-Assisted Therapy Interventions.
(716) 687-0288 View (716) 687-0288
Photo of Seaghan Coleman, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Seaghan Coleman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14209
Note: I am transitioning to ketamine assisted psychedelic (KAP) and MDMA once that becomes available. I am a master therapist and trainer. I love exploring how people have become distorted from their true nature and lose touch with what matters most to them. The work is to help us all clear the distortions so we can return to who we are: awake, kind, free. I often practice using EMDR, Buddhist Psychology, spiritual practice, exploring the nature of satisfaction/dissatisfaction and the nature of self, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
Note: I am transitioning to ketamine assisted psychedelic (KAP) and MDMA once that becomes available. I am a master therapist and trainer. I love exploring how people have become distorted from their true nature and lose touch with what matters most to them. The work is to help us all clear the distortions so we can return to who we are: awake, kind, free. I often practice using EMDR, Buddhist Psychology, spiritual practice, exploring the nature of satisfaction/dissatisfaction and the nature of self, as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
(716) 710-8854 View (716) 710-8854
Photo of Jessica Lehsten, LMHC, Counselor
Jessica Lehsten
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14223
I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting.
Growth is uncomfortable but so is staying the same. It’s hard to know where to start when it comes to improving your mental wellbeing. Together we will navigate your healing journey as you develop a greater sense of peace in your life.
I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting.
Growth is uncomfortable but so is staying the same. It’s hard to know where to start when it comes to improving your mental wellbeing. Together we will navigate your healing journey as you develop a greater sense of peace in your life.
(716) 451-3823 View (716) 451-3823
Photo of Sabrina DeFilippis, LCSW-R, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrina DeFilippis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14217  (Online Only)
Approaches include but are not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Trauma-Informed Care, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness, attachment styles, as well as therapeutic art and play activities.
I am a compassionate clinical social worker with over ten years of experience providing mental health counseling to diverse populations in individual, family, and group settings. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to experience their own healing and transformation and my hope is to cultivate the connection and environment with clients to do so. I hold a safe, non-judgmental space for you to feel seen, heard, and supported as you connect with yourself and process your experiences.
Approaches include but are not limited to Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Trauma-Informed Care, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Mindfulness, attachment styles, as well as therapeutic art and play activities.
I am a compassionate clinical social worker with over ten years of experience providing mental health counseling to diverse populations in individual, family, and group settings. I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to experience their own healing and transformation and my hope is to cultivate the connection and environment with clients to do so. I hold a safe, non-judgmental space for you to feel seen, heard, and supported as you connect with yourself and process your experiences.
(716) 616-3340 View (716) 616-3340
Photo of Melissa Heusinger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Heusinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14219  (Online Only)
I am also trained in Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Are you struggling anxiety or depression feeling as if your on a roller coaster with your emotions searching for stability? Do you hope to gain knowledge on your behaviors and learn realistic tools to navigate life? I hope to provide you with skills to mange emotions , improve relationships of all kinds and manage stress more effectively.
I am also trained in Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Are you struggling anxiety or depression feeling as if your on a roller coaster with your emotions searching for stability? Do you hope to gain knowledge on your behaviors and learn realistic tools to navigate life? I hope to provide you with skills to mange emotions , improve relationships of all kinds and manage stress more effectively.
(716) 869-6625 View (716) 869-6625
Photo of Elexa O’Donnell, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elexa O’Donnell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Buffalo, NY 14223
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is rooted in trauma-informed, attachment-based frameworks such as EMDR and IFS inspired parts work.
My goal as a clinician is to create a safe space where we can work through issues that may be causing you distress, and eventually celebrate your positive growth. Together, we will explore the patterns in your life that are no longer serving you. I may be a particularly good fit for those looking to work through trauma, attachment issues, interpersonal relationships, anxiety and depression. I am a certified perinatal mental health provider and have a special interest in working with folks navigating challenges around parenthood including identity shifts, postpartum depression/anxiety, birth trauma, pregnancy loss and infertility.
My approach is rooted in trauma-informed, attachment-based frameworks such as EMDR and IFS inspired parts work.
My goal as a clinician is to create a safe space where we can work through issues that may be causing you distress, and eventually celebrate your positive growth. Together, we will explore the patterns in your life that are no longer serving you. I may be a particularly good fit for those looking to work through trauma, attachment issues, interpersonal relationships, anxiety and depression. I am a certified perinatal mental health provider and have a special interest in working with folks navigating challenges around parenthood including identity shifts, postpartum depression/anxiety, birth trauma, pregnancy loss and infertility.
(716) 204-7367 View (716) 204-7367
Photo of Amani Mathis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amani Mathis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14214  (Online Only)
I draw from evidence-based therapeutic modalities, such DBT, EMDR, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Emotional difficulties can make us feel stuck, but there is hope. As a licensed clinical social worker, I strive to create an affirming and non-judgmental space where you feel heard and supported. I have worked with many people facing various life challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and mood instability. I balance the use of skills training, problem solving, and validation to help others on their path to building a value-based life. I believe in the uniqueness of each person's experiences and tailor my approach to meet their individual needs.
I draw from evidence-based therapeutic modalities, such DBT, EMDR, and Mindfulness-based approaches.
Emotional difficulties can make us feel stuck, but there is hope. As a licensed clinical social worker, I strive to create an affirming and non-judgmental space where you feel heard and supported. I have worked with many people facing various life challenges, including anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, and mood instability. I balance the use of skills training, problem solving, and validation to help others on their path to building a value-based life. I believe in the uniqueness of each person's experiences and tailor my approach to meet their individual needs.
(716) 454-3439 View (716) 454-3439
Photo of Peter Mittiga, LMHC, Counselor
Peter Mittiga
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buffalo, NY 14214  (Online Only)
I have been trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and can use that to work with clients who are suffering from past trauma.
I work with clients who are struggling with overcoming past trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship distress or work stress. Many times it can be easy to stuff feelings associated with any of these stressors, only to have these issues come back and be more intense. I like to assist clients with finding ways to process through their stressors, trauma, anxiety and depression, while learning healthy coping skills to manage stressors in the future so that you can feel more at peace and a sense of calm. With relationship distress I work with clients on effective communication and processing through emotions.
I have been trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and can use that to work with clients who are suffering from past trauma.
I work with clients who are struggling with overcoming past trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship distress or work stress. Many times it can be easy to stuff feelings associated with any of these stressors, only to have these issues come back and be more intense. I like to assist clients with finding ways to process through their stressors, trauma, anxiety and depression, while learning healthy coping skills to manage stressors in the future so that you can feel more at peace and a sense of calm. With relationship distress I work with clients on effective communication and processing through emotions.
(585) 558-3075 View (585) 558-3075
1
...
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.