EMDR Therapists in Cortland, NY

Photo of Gregory G Moss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gregory G Moss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cortland, NY 13045
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, EMDR and DBT skills in my practice.
I provide counseling to people who have a history of anxiety, depression, painful or abusive relationships, as well as those with past traumas or PTSD due to abuse or tragedy. I also work with people struggling with recent life or relationship problems or who are dealing with a relationship break-up. Although I provide therapy to a wide variety of people, what they have in common is that they want help to feel better and enjoy their lives more. They recognize that counseling is something that can help get them there faster than they could on their own.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Techniques, EMDR and DBT skills in my practice.
I provide counseling to people who have a history of anxiety, depression, painful or abusive relationships, as well as those with past traumas or PTSD due to abuse or tragedy. I also work with people struggling with recent life or relationship problems or who are dealing with a relationship break-up. Although I provide therapy to a wide variety of people, what they have in common is that they want help to feel better and enjoy their lives more. They recognize that counseling is something that can help get them there faster than they could on their own.
(607) 533-2977 View (607) 533-2977
Photo of Kristen M Haddad, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen M Haddad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cortland, NY 13045  (Online Only)
My primary therapeutic focus is to help teenagers and adults to develop a stronger sense of self and to develop the coping skills they will need to address issues of anxiety, self esteem and self worth. I use a non-judgmental, trauma informed and holistic approach to help clients develop their ability to self soothe, including using body/movement and grounding techniques. I focus on both personal autonomy and understanding ourselves in relationships, with the goal of moving out of stuck feelings and thoughts to embody a more curious stance of your experiences and the world around you.
My primary therapeutic focus is to help teenagers and adults to develop a stronger sense of self and to develop the coping skills they will need to address issues of anxiety, self esteem and self worth. I use a non-judgmental, trauma informed and holistic approach to help clients develop their ability to self soothe, including using body/movement and grounding techniques. I focus on both personal autonomy and understanding ourselves in relationships, with the goal of moving out of stuck feelings and thoughts to embody a more curious stance of your experiences and the world around you.
(607) 367-6648 View (607) 367-6648
Clearwater Counseling Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Cortland, NY 13045  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, overwhelmed and replaying the same thoughts in your head over and over again? You don't feel like yourself anymore. The excessive nervousness, fear, worry, procrastination and emotional distress is wearing you down and negatively impacting your life. You want to feel like yourself again, before anxiety set in. I can help you get there.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, overwhelmed and replaying the same thoughts in your head over and over again? You don't feel like yourself anymore. The excessive nervousness, fear, worry, procrastination and emotional distress is wearing you down and negatively impacting your life. You want to feel like yourself again, before anxiety set in. I can help you get there.
(347) 727-0152 View (347) 727-0152
Photo of Montgomery Lyons, PsyD, Psychologist
Montgomery Lyons
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cortland, NY 13045
My ideal client is a client that is motivated for change, and willing to be vulnerable, open, and honest. They are willing to put in the work and trust in the therapy process. It is my goal to assist the client in any way that I can and meet their needs in order to help them achieve their goals, gain a better balanced self, and improve their overall mental health.
My ideal client is a client that is motivated for change, and willing to be vulnerable, open, and honest. They are willing to put in the work and trust in the therapy process. It is my goal to assist the client in any way that I can and meet their needs in order to help them achieve their goals, gain a better balanced self, and improve their overall mental health.
(607) 208-9416 View (607) 208-9416
Photo of Diana Tillotson, LCSW, PMH-C , CLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Diana Tillotson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C , CLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cortland, NY 13045  (Online Only)
Therapy can be a transformational process of self-discovery facilitated by deeper levels of awareness and change. I believe we have an inherent ability to heal ourselves, and my primary focus is to honor and trust your experience. Anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life stressors can interfere with living a fulfilling life, causing problems in your life and relationships, and leaving you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, lost or numb. I believe that therapy should meet the individual where they are within their unique set of circumstances.
Therapy can be a transformational process of self-discovery facilitated by deeper levels of awareness and change. I believe we have an inherent ability to heal ourselves, and my primary focus is to honor and trust your experience. Anxiety, depression, trauma, and other life stressors can interfere with living a fulfilling life, causing problems in your life and relationships, and leaving you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed, lost or numb. I believe that therapy should meet the individual where they are within their unique set of circumstances.
(607) 564-4158 View (607) 564-4158
Photo of Shannon Haskins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Haskins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cortland, NY 13045
Not accepting new clients
I draw upon a broad base of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, DBT/CBT, AEDP, Mindfulness strategies, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Welcome! Thank you for taking this first step. Everyone struggles or feels overwhelmed at times, and developing a trusting relationship with a therapist can help. I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns. I also work with people who are looking to heal from the impacts of trauma. I enjoy working with college students, graduate students, and other adults of various ages.
I draw upon a broad base of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, DBT/CBT, AEDP, Mindfulness strategies, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Welcome! Thank you for taking this first step. Everyone struggles or feels overwhelmed at times, and developing a trusting relationship with a therapist can help. I work with individuals who are experiencing anxiety, depression, and relationship concerns. I also work with people who are looking to heal from the impacts of trauma. I enjoy working with college students, graduate students, and other adults of various ages.
(607) 364-9006 View (607) 364-9006
Photo of Jacob White, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacob White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cortland, NY 13045  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
My primary therapeutic approaches, AEDP and EMDR, are experiential therapies that allow us to safely explore and process a wide range of emotions and tap into your inner strength and wisdom.
As a licensed clinical social worker, my primary focus is to help you reduce suffering and find greater joy and meaning in your life. With a Master's degree in social work from Hunter College Silberman School of Social Work and a BFA in dramatic performance from the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music, I have spent the past 15 years working with a diverse range of individuals struggling with a variety of mental health issues. I have a particular expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, substance abuse, creative blocks, and issues related to relationships, gender-identity, and sexuality.
My primary therapeutic approaches, AEDP and EMDR, are experiential therapies that allow us to safely explore and process a wide range of emotions and tap into your inner strength and wisdom.
As a licensed clinical social worker, my primary focus is to help you reduce suffering and find greater joy and meaning in your life. With a Master's degree in social work from Hunter College Silberman School of Social Work and a BFA in dramatic performance from the University of Cincinnati College Conservatory of Music, I have spent the past 15 years working with a diverse range of individuals struggling with a variety of mental health issues. I have a particular expertise in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, phobias, substance abuse, creative blocks, and issues related to relationships, gender-identity, and sexuality.
(607) 862-5792 View (607) 862-5792

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Teresa Longo, LCMHC, Counselor
Teresa Longo
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Dryden, NY 13053  (Online Only)
Life can be stressful offering various turns and detours that were quite unexpected. We can never underestimate the impact emotions have on our lives. My name is Teresa Longo and I am a LMHC with over 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate their life journey. I seek to offer a comfortable, safe place where you can heal while gaining more insight into the road behind and the one ahead. “To get through the hardest journey we need only to take one step at a time, but we must keep on stepping.” – Chinese Proverb
Life can be stressful offering various turns and detours that were quite unexpected. We can never underestimate the impact emotions have on our lives. My name is Teresa Longo and I am a LMHC with over 20 years of experience helping individuals navigate their life journey. I seek to offer a comfortable, safe place where you can heal while gaining more insight into the road behind and the one ahead. “To get through the hardest journey we need only to take one step at a time, but we must keep on stepping.” – Chinese Proverb
(929) 265-4344 View (929) 265-4344

Online Therapists

Photo of Janette G Prentice - Samaritan Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samaritan Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Endicott, NY 13760
Samaritan has multiple therapists trained in the treatment of EMDR.
Samaritan Counseling is now offering telehealth services for residents of New York State with current appointment openings. Samaritan counselors are clinically trained certified social workers with masters degrees in counseling and psychotherapy. Counseling services are provided for individuals of all ages, couples, and families on a wide variety of mental health issues.
Samaritan has multiple therapists trained in the treatment of EMDR.
Samaritan Counseling is now offering telehealth services for residents of New York State with current appointment openings. Samaritan counselors are clinically trained certified social workers with masters degrees in counseling and psychotherapy. Counseling services are provided for individuals of all ages, couples, and families on a wide variety of mental health issues.
(607) 284-6579 View (607) 284-6579
Photo of Bonnie McKenney, MS, LMHC, NCC, MHP, CMHP, Counselor
Bonnie McKenney
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, MHP, CMHP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Syracuse, NY 13244
Waitlist for new clients
I use evidenced based skills ( EMDR) and team with a certified therapy dog as an AAI professional.
Completely stressed out, anxious, depressed or feeling stuck? Is there too much to think about and sort out? Did something(s) really bad happen? Not sure what to do next or if it's even worth it? I would like to help you feel better, process hard things and you to discover greater meaning and purpose. As a certified EMDR therapist, I can help you process the traumatic events that have occurred. Together we can help you feel better, perform optimally, and work towards creating the new story you want for your life. I partner with teens, parents and individual adults to help sort through the difficult issues your facing today.
I use evidenced based skills ( EMDR) and team with a certified therapy dog as an AAI professional.
Completely stressed out, anxious, depressed or feeling stuck? Is there too much to think about and sort out? Did something(s) really bad happen? Not sure what to do next or if it's even worth it? I would like to help you feel better, process hard things and you to discover greater meaning and purpose. As a certified EMDR therapist, I can help you process the traumatic events that have occurred. Together we can help you feel better, perform optimally, and work towards creating the new story you want for your life. I partner with teens, parents and individual adults to help sort through the difficult issues your facing today.
(253) 265-4074 View (253) 265-4074
Photo of Ali Bamonto, MS, LCAT
Ali Bamonto
Creative Arts Therapist, MS, LCAT
Verified Verified
East Rochester, NY 14445
As a therapist trained in EMDR, I can guide you through processing past trauma and regaining control of your thoughts and emotions.
“Mountains know the secrets we need to learn; that it might take time, it might be hard, but if you just hold on long enough, you will find the strength to rise up.” -Tyler Knott Gregson. Making the decision to change any aspect of your life is a big step towards living authentically and with fulfillment. Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, struggling with not feeling like yourself, or burdened by the impact of unprocessed trauma can make this step seem daunting. Together we can take that step, work towards a stronger sense of self, better handle triggers and work through past traumas.
As a therapist trained in EMDR, I can guide you through processing past trauma and regaining control of your thoughts and emotions.
“Mountains know the secrets we need to learn; that it might take time, it might be hard, but if you just hold on long enough, you will find the strength to rise up.” -Tyler Knott Gregson. Making the decision to change any aspect of your life is a big step towards living authentically and with fulfillment. Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out, struggling with not feeling like yourself, or burdened by the impact of unprocessed trauma can make this step seem daunting. Together we can take that step, work towards a stronger sense of self, better handle triggers and work through past traumas.
(585) 460-5080 View (585) 460-5080
Photo of Breana Cline, MSEd, LMHC, Counselor
Breana Cline
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ontario, NY 14519
I use my trainings in EMDR, DBT, TF-CBT and IFS lens models to work with individuals who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, OCD, and ADHD.
Are you tired of feeling trapped by negative self-talk, self-doubt, and a distorted body image? Do you struggle with disordered eating patterns that leave you feeling powerless and alone? Have you noticed your child struggling with these patterns? You are not alone. I offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space to explore the complex issues surrounding self-esteem, body image, and eating disorders. I am committed to providing a supportive and empowering therapeutic environment where you and your child can feel heard, understood, and valued. Let's collaborate together to help you and your child on your healing journey.
I use my trainings in EMDR, DBT, TF-CBT and IFS lens models to work with individuals who struggle with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, OCD, and ADHD.
Are you tired of feeling trapped by negative self-talk, self-doubt, and a distorted body image? Do you struggle with disordered eating patterns that leave you feeling powerless and alone? Have you noticed your child struggling with these patterns? You are not alone. I offer a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental space to explore the complex issues surrounding self-esteem, body image, and eating disorders. I am committed to providing a supportive and empowering therapeutic environment where you and your child can feel heard, understood, and valued. Let's collaborate together to help you and your child on your healing journey.
(315) 522-0953 View (315) 522-0953
Photo of Philippa Proudfoot, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Philippa Proudfoot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14620
Are you struggling with issues from your past? Do you experience emotional pain, trauma, depression, anger, or difficulties in your relationships? My decades of experience with EMDR and other therapies have convinced me of their power to help you. I also believe in the resilience and strength of human beings to heal from past hurts. My flexible approach enables me to respond to your unique needs in a caring and nonjudgmental way.
Are you struggling with issues from your past? Do you experience emotional pain, trauma, depression, anger, or difficulties in your relationships? My decades of experience with EMDR and other therapies have convinced me of their power to help you. I also believe in the resilience and strength of human beings to heal from past hurts. My flexible approach enables me to respond to your unique needs in a caring and nonjudgmental way.
(585) 433-4003 View (585) 433-4003
Photo of Sarah Adams - Sustainable Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sustainable Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
have training in and regularly integrate modalities including CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Schema-Focused Therapy, DBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic work, and Brainspotting.
Sustainable Wellness is a trauma-based therapy and wellness practice focused on providing a holistic approach to healing. We offer specialized mental health services for PTSD and other trauma disorders, along with trauma-informed care for communities exposed to high levels of chronic stressors. We're passionate about resolving and healing attachment wounds while striving to create a therapeutic environment based in trust and authenticity. We work closely with clients to help them feel more comfortable in their bodies and more connected to the moment in order to build self-compassion and move toward healing.
have training in and regularly integrate modalities including CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Schema-Focused Therapy, DBT, Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic work, and Brainspotting.
Sustainable Wellness is a trauma-based therapy and wellness practice focused on providing a holistic approach to healing. We offer specialized mental health services for PTSD and other trauma disorders, along with trauma-informed care for communities exposed to high levels of chronic stressors. We're passionate about resolving and healing attachment wounds while striving to create a therapeutic environment based in trust and authenticity. We work closely with clients to help them feel more comfortable in their bodies and more connected to the moment in order to build self-compassion and move toward healing.
(585) 302-2431 View (585) 302-2431
Photo of Lorrie Johnson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorrie Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rochester, NY 14607
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR, IFS and Brainspotting relieve and desensitize painful memories, promoting repair and disrupting negative beliefs connected to past experiences and trauma.
Hi, I am really glad you stopped by. Are you struggling with the direction your life is going? Or are your symptoms keeping you from healthy relationships, excelling at work, or living life to the fullest? Well, change is possible no matter how difficult things feel. You can cultivate the life you want and deserve by engaging in strength based, compassionate, solution-focused healing. I specialize in attachment wounds, dissociation, and trauma intervention. My passion is in neuroscience; I’m trained in Ketamine, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Schema, DBT, EMDR and Gottman. I see couples, individuals and facilitate groups.
EMDR, IFS and Brainspotting relieve and desensitize painful memories, promoting repair and disrupting negative beliefs connected to past experiences and trauma.
Hi, I am really glad you stopped by. Are you struggling with the direction your life is going? Or are your symptoms keeping you from healthy relationships, excelling at work, or living life to the fullest? Well, change is possible no matter how difficult things feel. You can cultivate the life you want and deserve by engaging in strength based, compassionate, solution-focused healing. I specialize in attachment wounds, dissociation, and trauma intervention. My passion is in neuroscience; I’m trained in Ketamine, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Schema, DBT, EMDR and Gottman. I see couples, individuals and facilitate groups.
(585) 209-5165 View (585) 209-5165
Photo of Buffy Curtis, LCAT, ATR, BC, EMDR, Art Therapist
Buffy Curtis
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR, BC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Syracuse, NY 13057  (Online Only)
I offer EMDR, art therapy, psychedelic assisted therapy, somatic practices, and community integration to to support you in healing from trauma, grief, chronic illness and so much more! I offer a free 15 minute consultation so you can determine if we're a good fit! I offer billing concierge and sliding scale.
Overwhelmed, disconnected or simply burned out? Do you find yourself falling into old habits repeatedly, while confused as to how you got there? In this fast paced life it is so easy to neglect caring for ourselves and dismiss our needs. For over 15 years I have been helping individuals with early childhood trauma, complex trauma, self-esteem, mood disorders and chronic health disorders to reignite the joy in their lives and feel whole again. You deserve to love yourself, and together we can create a space where you can grow into loving yourself and the life you live! I cannot wait to speak with you!
I offer EMDR, art therapy, psychedelic assisted therapy, somatic practices, and community integration to to support you in healing from trauma, grief, chronic illness and so much more! I offer a free 15 minute consultation so you can determine if we're a good fit! I offer billing concierge and sliding scale.
Overwhelmed, disconnected or simply burned out? Do you find yourself falling into old habits repeatedly, while confused as to how you got there? In this fast paced life it is so easy to neglect caring for ourselves and dismiss our needs. For over 15 years I have been helping individuals with early childhood trauma, complex trauma, self-esteem, mood disorders and chronic health disorders to reignite the joy in their lives and feel whole again. You deserve to love yourself, and together we can create a space where you can grow into loving yourself and the life you live! I cannot wait to speak with you!
(315) 776-7739 View (315) 776-7739
Photo of Michele Fletcher, LCSW-R, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Apalachin, NY 13732
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR.
With over 28 yrs. of experience with my Masters in Social Work, I have helped people through difficult times and life transitions. This includes but is not limited too, making a decision about ending a relationship, death of a loved on, changing jobs, struggles with peer relationships and moving. Additionally, anxiety, panic and stress are frequent reasons someone may be seen. I also treat trauma and use a trauma informed approach throughout treatment. It is important for me to have clients feel heard and see there is a path forward. Often goals include building new coping skills and new patterns of positive choices.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR.
With over 28 yrs. of experience with my Masters in Social Work, I have helped people through difficult times and life transitions. This includes but is not limited too, making a decision about ending a relationship, death of a loved on, changing jobs, struggles with peer relationships and moving. Additionally, anxiety, panic and stress are frequent reasons someone may be seen. I also treat trauma and use a trauma informed approach throughout treatment. It is important for me to have clients feel heard and see there is a path forward. Often goals include building new coping skills and new patterns of positive choices.
(607) 303-5948 View (607) 303-5948
Photo of Tess Walsh Skaneateles Psychotherapy, LCSW, MA, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tess Walsh Skaneateles Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MA, CASAC
Verified Verified
Skaneateles, NY 13152
I offer EMDR therapy and EMDR intensives which helps people heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences.
Now Currently Accepting New Clients. Are you struggling with who to call or where to turn right now? I understand that reaching out to talk to someone about your personal struggles or life challenges can be difficult and I am committed to provide you the support you need to promote personal growth through this unprecedented time. I am located on the beautiful Sinclair property in Skaneateles, offering a safe, quiet and discrete place of peace and tranquility. You are not alone, I will be by your side, helping you develop better clarity, understanding and direction. Please visit my website for more details on the services I offer.
I offer EMDR therapy and EMDR intensives which helps people heal from trauma or other distressing life experiences.
Now Currently Accepting New Clients. Are you struggling with who to call or where to turn right now? I understand that reaching out to talk to someone about your personal struggles or life challenges can be difficult and I am committed to provide you the support you need to promote personal growth through this unprecedented time. I am located on the beautiful Sinclair property in Skaneateles, offering a safe, quiet and discrete place of peace and tranquility. You are not alone, I will be by your side, helping you develop better clarity, understanding and direction. Please visit my website for more details on the services I offer.
(315) 847-3862 View (315) 847-3862
Photo of Emily Oliver - Inner Lakes Therapy LCSW, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Lakes Therapy LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ithaca, NY 14850  (Online Only)
They are skilled in many modalities including but not limited to CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, MI, inner child work, and narrative, relational, psychodynamic therapies.
Inner Lakes Therapy is a warm and welcoming virtual group practice. We specialize in working with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma while prioritizing safety and affirming care. All of our clinicians are BIPOC allied and LGBTQIA+ and ND affirming, if not members of these groups themselves. We do our best to both align with strong social justice values and provide empowering and destigmatizing therapy. We are open, body-positive, sex-positive, kink-affirming, and non-judgmental.
They are skilled in many modalities including but not limited to CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, MI, inner child work, and narrative, relational, psychodynamic therapies.
Inner Lakes Therapy is a warm and welcoming virtual group practice. We specialize in working with ADHD, autism, anxiety, depression, and trauma while prioritizing safety and affirming care. All of our clinicians are BIPOC allied and LGBTQIA+ and ND affirming, if not members of these groups themselves. We do our best to both align with strong social justice values and provide empowering and destigmatizing therapy. We are open, body-positive, sex-positive, kink-affirming, and non-judgmental.
(607) 527-2470 View (607) 527-2470
Photo of Melea Sayward, MS, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Melea Sayward
Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bath, NY 14810  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer EMDR in therapy and have been trained through EMDRIA.
Welcome! Taking the step to access support through therapy is an act of courage. As a professional counselor it’s a privilege to step into the hard parts of life with others and I am happy to support you as you navigate your current struggle.
I offer EMDR in therapy and have been trained through EMDRIA.
Welcome! Taking the step to access support through therapy is an act of courage. As a professional counselor it’s a privilege to step into the hard parts of life with others and I am happy to support you as you navigate your current struggle.
(607) 305-4020 View (607) 305-4020

See more therapy options for Cortland

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.