EMDR Therapists in East Aurora, NY

Photo of Julia Fierle, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Fierle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
East Aurora, NY 14052
I believe everyone innate worthiness. Unfortunately, our lifetime experiences may cause us to feel otherwise. I believe we all have the capacity for greater self compassion, healing, and finding fulfillment in our lives. Once our burdens feel lighter and we begin to let go of old stories about ourselves, we can live more fully as our intrinsic selves . I am trained in Natural Processing, certified in EMDR as well as Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and EquiLateral EMDR.
I believe everyone innate worthiness. Unfortunately, our lifetime experiences may cause us to feel otherwise. I believe we all have the capacity for greater self compassion, healing, and finding fulfillment in our lives. Once our burdens feel lighter and we begin to let go of old stories about ourselves, we can live more fully as our intrinsic selves . I am trained in Natural Processing, certified in EMDR as well as Equine Assisted Psychotherapy and EquiLateral EMDR.
(716) 568-7042 View (716) 568-7042
Photo of Erin E Newman, LCSW, LADC, I, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin E Newman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LADC, I, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and Registered Yoga Teacher.
Your past does not define you. Maybe you’ve been through something distressing or traumatic. Or you didn’t get what you needed from the caregivers in your life, despite their best intentions. You’re tired of feeling so anxious and depressed. Perhaps you feel like you’re “not enough” or you’re never doing enough. It always feels like something bad is about to happen. You want to be able to relax into your life. Let’s work together to help you get unstuck from your past. So that you can feel like you’re in the driver’s seat of your life.
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and Registered Yoga Teacher.
Your past does not define you. Maybe you’ve been through something distressing or traumatic. Or you didn’t get what you needed from the caregivers in your life, despite their best intentions. You’re tired of feeling so anxious and depressed. Perhaps you feel like you’re “not enough” or you’re never doing enough. It always feels like something bad is about to happen. You want to be able to relax into your life. Let’s work together to help you get unstuck from your past. So that you can feel like you’re in the driver’s seat of your life.
(716) 221-6823 View (716) 221-6823
Photo of Mary Beiter, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beiter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
I use a variety of techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) , EMDR and other other Trauma Focused Therapy protocols.
Are you tired of being depressed, anxious, overwhelmed? Having problems in your personal relationships, or finding that you can't let go of your past? If you are ready to make changes in your life and start to feel more positive, I am ready to work with you.
I use a variety of techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) , EMDR and other other Trauma Focused Therapy protocols.
Are you tired of being depressed, anxious, overwhelmed? Having problems in your personal relationships, or finding that you can't let go of your past? If you are ready to make changes in your life and start to feel more positive, I am ready to work with you.
(716) 451-2733 View (716) 451-2733
Photo of Rebecca Strong, MA, LPC, LMHC, EMDR, RYT-200, Counselor
Rebecca Strong
Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC, EMDR, RYT-200
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
In service of you feeling better faster, we offer 2-hour sessions, 3-day EMDR Retreats and 10-15 day IFS-EMDR Intensives.
You’re probably here because you are feeling in over your head. Maybe you are feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, grief or overwhelm. Perhaps you’re struggling in a relationship that is important to you, or you recently lost someone you love. Perhaps you have looping negative self-talk or memories that won’t let you sleep. Or maybe you are going through a life-transition and determined to stop repeating patterns that don’t work. You know you need help, yet you want things to change this time.
In service of you feeling better faster, we offer 2-hour sessions, 3-day EMDR Retreats and 10-15 day IFS-EMDR Intensives.
You’re probably here because you are feeling in over your head. Maybe you are feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, grief or overwhelm. Perhaps you’re struggling in a relationship that is important to you, or you recently lost someone you love. Perhaps you have looping negative self-talk or memories that won’t let you sleep. Or maybe you are going through a life-transition and determined to stop repeating patterns that don’t work. You know you need help, yet you want things to change this time.
(720) 513-1705 View (720) 513-1705
Photo of Holly Tomasello, MS, MHC-LP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Holly Tomasello
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
Announcing the provision of EMDR, ASL interpreting services, and wellness counseling at Elite Spine and Extremity Physical Therapy! I If you’ve experienced trauma and/or adversity, you may need support navigating the unpredictability's of life. I believe you have the inner strength to achieve your best sense of self. I strive to guide you toward peace and healing by exploring implementing EMDR, incorporating dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), crisis counseling, as well as addressing chronic pain, grief, and loss. I value the therapeutic relationship, diversity, acceptance, personal strengths, and instilling hope.
Announcing the provision of EMDR, ASL interpreting services, and wellness counseling at Elite Spine and Extremity Physical Therapy! I If you’ve experienced trauma and/or adversity, you may need support navigating the unpredictability's of life. I believe you have the inner strength to achieve your best sense of self. I strive to guide you toward peace and healing by exploring implementing EMDR, incorporating dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), crisis counseling, as well as addressing chronic pain, grief, and loss. I value the therapeutic relationship, diversity, acceptance, personal strengths, and instilling hope.
(716) 714-0097 View (716) 714-0097
Ann Chojnacki
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
There are a lot of people who move through life in emotional pain. I am an EMDR trained therapist who specializes in helping you understand the impact that life events have on your current thoughts and behaviors. Once this understanding is created it allows us to move forward with treatment that creates a pathway for improved mental health and inner peace. I also help you to understand the relationships in your life, improve communication and manage the interactions.
There are a lot of people who move through life in emotional pain. I am an EMDR trained therapist who specializes in helping you understand the impact that life events have on your current thoughts and behaviors. Once this understanding is created it allows us to move forward with treatment that creates a pathway for improved mental health and inner peace. I also help you to understand the relationships in your life, improve communication and manage the interactions.
(716) 376-4013 View (716) 376-4013
Photo of Katie Mullaney, LCAT, Art Therapist
Katie Mullaney
Art Therapist, LCAT
Verified Verified
East Aurora, NY 14052
I specialize in mindfulness, somatic therapy, art therapy, EMDR, and energy healing (Reiki) to help my clients move through stuck emotions in the body.
Emotions are currents of energy in the body. Energy such as (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, anger and trauma, contract and trigger the "fight or flight" response. This leaves the body in a high alert state. If not expressed, this energy lingers in the body causing imbalance, even illness in the body and mind. Learn to tune into the bodily experience of your emotions, release toxic energy and activate the "rest and digest" response to regain balance. By practicing awareness, expression and intention my clients feel more empowered and in control of their emotions, allowing them to live a more expanded and fulfilled life.
I specialize in mindfulness, somatic therapy, art therapy, EMDR, and energy healing (Reiki) to help my clients move through stuck emotions in the body.
Emotions are currents of energy in the body. Energy such as (but not limited to) anxiety, depression, anger and trauma, contract and trigger the "fight or flight" response. This leaves the body in a high alert state. If not expressed, this energy lingers in the body causing imbalance, even illness in the body and mind. Learn to tune into the bodily experience of your emotions, release toxic energy and activate the "rest and digest" response to regain balance. By practicing awareness, expression and intention my clients feel more empowered and in control of their emotions, allowing them to live a more expanded and fulfilled life.
(716) 301-2865 View (716) 301-2865
Photo of Gillian Field-Bierl - Gillian Field-Bierl, Creative Arts Therapist, PLLC, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Gillian Field-Bierl, Creative Arts Therapist, PLLC
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), I regularly integrate these and other techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, schema therapy, art therapy, therapeutic play, and mindfulness and grounding.
Finding a therapist can be difficult. Finding a therapist who is the right fit can be even more challenging. You made it this far! A brief 10-15 minute phone consultation will bring you closer to exploring what your next steps toward a healthier and happier life could look like and to ensure that we are the right fit. I am a New York State licensed creative arts therapist (LCAT) and a nationally registered, board-certified art therapist (ATR-BC), offering individual and family therapy, as well as art therapy supervision.
Trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), I regularly integrate these and other techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, schema therapy, art therapy, therapeutic play, and mindfulness and grounding.
Finding a therapist can be difficult. Finding a therapist who is the right fit can be even more challenging. You made it this far! A brief 10-15 minute phone consultation will bring you closer to exploring what your next steps toward a healthier and happier life could look like and to ensure that we are the right fit. I am a New York State licensed creative arts therapist (LCAT) and a nationally registered, board-certified art therapist (ATR-BC), offering individual and family therapy, as well as art therapy supervision.
(585) 684-7894 View (585) 684-7894
Photo of Sandra L Swartwout, MSEd, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Sandra L Swartwout
Counselor, MSEd, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
East Aurora, NY 14052  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
"I believe that wellness includes our physical, emotional and mental being. My focus in counseling is to help you work through the road blocks that are affecting your well-being. Together we will help you to achieve wellness. I look forward to assisting you in becoming your best self. I offer a Mindfulness Based Therapy along with a variety of other therapeutic tools. I am a certified EMDR therapist working with clients who have experienced all forms of trauma."
"I believe that wellness includes our physical, emotional and mental being. My focus in counseling is to help you work through the road blocks that are affecting your well-being. Together we will help you to achieve wellness. I look forward to assisting you in becoming your best self. I offer a Mindfulness Based Therapy along with a variety of other therapeutic tools. I am a certified EMDR therapist working with clients who have experienced all forms of trauma."
(585) 714-9336 View (585) 714-9336
Photo of Santina Phillips, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Santina Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
I can provide a wide variety of different interventions and have a unique skill set which includes evidence based treatments such as: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), strategies to address dissociation, therapeutic play, mindfulness and grounding techniques.
As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I am dedicated to helping clients learn new skills to become healthier versions of themselves. I have been working in the mental health field in the Buffalo area since 2016 providing services to children, adolescents and adults. I believe in using a trauma based approach to help individuals explore their past to help improve their present and future.
I can provide a wide variety of different interventions and have a unique skill set which includes evidence based treatments such as: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), strategies to address dissociation, therapeutic play, mindfulness and grounding techniques.
As a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), I am dedicated to helping clients learn new skills to become healthier versions of themselves. I have been working in the mental health field in the Buffalo area since 2016 providing services to children, adolescents and adults. I believe in using a trauma based approach to help individuals explore their past to help improve their present and future.
(585) 580-1399 View (585) 580-1399
Photo of Brian Costello, LCSW, CASAC , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brian Costello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
We're all doing the best we can with what we have to work with. However, life is always changing, and the tools we were given in the past, may not be working for us in the present. Counseling can act as a software update for your mind, clearing out old ideas, unprocessed emotion, and beliefs, that are holding you back from reaching your goals. I use EMDR therapy and other evidence-based modalities in my work. If you want to live your life more than think about it, and if you want your past to stop showing up uninvited in the present; then you may benefit from this unique, innovative, and holistic form of therapy.
We're all doing the best we can with what we have to work with. However, life is always changing, and the tools we were given in the past, may not be working for us in the present. Counseling can act as a software update for your mind, clearing out old ideas, unprocessed emotion, and beliefs, that are holding you back from reaching your goals. I use EMDR therapy and other evidence-based modalities in my work. If you want to live your life more than think about it, and if you want your past to stop showing up uninvited in the present; then you may benefit from this unique, innovative, and holistic form of therapy.
(716) 869-6303 View (716) 869-6303
Photo of Stephanie G Hall, LMSW
Stephanie G Hall
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
Hello! My name is Stephanie. I am an LMSW and psychotherapist with experiences working with mental health and substance use. I approach therapy from a holistic mind/ body perspective. I utilize evidenced based practices such as; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as attachment/ abandonment recovery therapies (and several other modalities listed below). I am additionally a level (2) reiki practitioner, and offer reiki services for ongoing healing and relaxation.
Hello! My name is Stephanie. I am an LMSW and psychotherapist with experiences working with mental health and substance use. I approach therapy from a holistic mind/ body perspective. I utilize evidenced based practices such as; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), as well as attachment/ abandonment recovery therapies (and several other modalities listed below). I am additionally a level (2) reiki practitioner, and offer reiki services for ongoing healing and relaxation.
(716) 321-5769 View (716) 321-5769
Photo of Cailin Huebsch - Cailin Huebsch Creative Arts Therapist, PLLC, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Cailin Huebsch Creative Arts Therapist, PLLC
Art Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
East Aurora, NY 14052
I have a unique skill set which includes evidenced based treatments such as: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), trauma therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), art therapy, attachment work, strategies to address dissociation, therapeutic play, mindfulness and grounding techniques.
I am here to help guide individuals on their personal healing journey toward symptom relief and a healthier version of themselves. My goal is to provide a safe and trusting environment for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and to assist them in resolving the larger obstacles so they will grow and experience a more fulfilling life. I welcome services to children, adolescents, and adults.
I have a unique skill set which includes evidenced based treatments such as: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), trauma therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), art therapy, attachment work, strategies to address dissociation, therapeutic play, mindfulness and grounding techniques.
I am here to help guide individuals on their personal healing journey toward symptom relief and a healthier version of themselves. My goal is to provide a safe and trusting environment for individuals to explore their vulnerabilities and to assist them in resolving the larger obstacles so they will grow and experience a more fulfilling life. I welcome services to children, adolescents, and adults.
(585) 735-0706 View (585) 735-0706
Photo of Angela Territo-Galfo, LMHC, MA, Counselor
Angela Territo-Galfo
Counselor, LMHC, MA
Verified Verified
East Aurora, NY 14052
As a intuitive trauma therapist, I am dedicated to providing a holistic approach for you that is personalized to your specific goals, needs and hopes, which can include intuitive guidance, parts work, EMDR, spirituality, mindfulness and energy healing.
If you are here, reading these words, you just took your first step towards healing! I honor where you are. I welcome you to be open minded on your journey to heal the old wounds you may be carrying from past experiences. You may feel lost, scared, confused or just know that it is time to make a change in your life. I am here to help you by guiding and supporting you in reaching your hopes and goals of building resilience; and a better connection to your whole self. I have special interest in working with clients dealing with issues such as: anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, attachment, trauma, PTSD/CPTSD and spirituality
As a intuitive trauma therapist, I am dedicated to providing a holistic approach for you that is personalized to your specific goals, needs and hopes, which can include intuitive guidance, parts work, EMDR, spirituality, mindfulness and energy healing.
If you are here, reading these words, you just took your first step towards healing! I honor where you are. I welcome you to be open minded on your journey to heal the old wounds you may be carrying from past experiences. You may feel lost, scared, confused or just know that it is time to make a change in your life. I am here to help you by guiding and supporting you in reaching your hopes and goals of building resilience; and a better connection to your whole self. I have special interest in working with clients dealing with issues such as: anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, attachment, trauma, PTSD/CPTSD and spirituality
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Photo of Maddie Lutter, LMHC, PMH-C
Maddie Lutter
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
East Aurora, NY 14052
Waitlist for new clients
I understand why there has been a recent rise in anxiety and depressive symptoms for many people of all ages. Major events and unexpected life changes can cause a significant amount of stress and anxiety. Stress can make us feel out of control and overwhelmed physically, mentally and emotionally. Things from our past can start to impact us more in our present. Relationships can seem more challenging and trusting ourselves almost impossible. Every person is different and when you take a closer look at every aspect of your life with help from an objective support it can help you see things more clearly and offer ways to cope.
I understand why there has been a recent rise in anxiety and depressive symptoms for many people of all ages. Major events and unexpected life changes can cause a significant amount of stress and anxiety. Stress can make us feel out of control and overwhelmed physically, mentally and emotionally. Things from our past can start to impact us more in our present. Relationships can seem more challenging and trusting ourselves almost impossible. Every person is different and when you take a closer look at every aspect of your life with help from an objective support it can help you see things more clearly and offer ways to cope.
(716) 325-4828 View (716) 325-4828
Photo of Bonnie E. O'Brien, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bonnie E. O'Brien
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Aurora, NY 14052
Life events can impact us in ways we couldn’t have imagined and at times we least expect it. These events can elicit parts of us that experience confusion, anxiety, overwhelm, and sadness or lead us to fall into patterns that may not make sense. Perhaps you’d like support to bring a sense of clarity, connection, and confidence within yourself and within your relationships, or to develop and heighten a passion and vitality for life. I recognize that your goals are unique to you and are honored in the therapeutic process.
Life events can impact us in ways we couldn’t have imagined and at times we least expect it. These events can elicit parts of us that experience confusion, anxiety, overwhelm, and sadness or lead us to fall into patterns that may not make sense. Perhaps you’d like support to bring a sense of clarity, connection, and confidence within yourself and within your relationships, or to develop and heighten a passion and vitality for life. I recognize that your goals are unique to you and are honored in the therapeutic process.
(716) 452-8839 View (716) 452-8839
Photo of Angela Mason, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Mason
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm thrilled to connect with you here. It's important to know that healing and growth are not only possible but within reach. While you may already possess many tools for your journey, having a compassionate guide with a diverse toolkit can make all the difference. Therapy offers a unique opportunity to cultivate a healing and trusting relationship. I've undergone extensive training in various therapeutic modalities and am deeply passionate about trauma recovery, no matter its scale. Additionally, I'm dedicated to supporting individuals in overcoming anxiety, depression, grief, and navigating life's challenges.
Hello! I'm thrilled to connect with you here. It's important to know that healing and growth are not only possible but within reach. While you may already possess many tools for your journey, having a compassionate guide with a diverse toolkit can make all the difference. Therapy offers a unique opportunity to cultivate a healing and trusting relationship. I've undergone extensive training in various therapeutic modalities and am deeply passionate about trauma recovery, no matter its scale. Additionally, I'm dedicated to supporting individuals in overcoming anxiety, depression, grief, and navigating life's challenges.
(585) 687-7523 View (585) 687-7523
Photo of Ann E Frank, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann E Frank
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
Counseling is a valuable investment in you. People seek it out for different reasons. Whatever your situation, I’ll be pleased to meet you and sort out the best ways I can support you in achieving your goals. My focus as a counselor is person-centered, trauma- informed and strengths-based. Those are social work terms that mean I want to understand you and your unique story to help you use and build on strengths you might not even know you already have so you can have the life you want. The types of counseling I have special training in can be used to help in a variety of situations. Let’s get together to see what we can figure out.
Counseling is a valuable investment in you. People seek it out for different reasons. Whatever your situation, I’ll be pleased to meet you and sort out the best ways I can support you in achieving your goals. My focus as a counselor is person-centered, trauma- informed and strengths-based. Those are social work terms that mean I want to understand you and your unique story to help you use and build on strengths you might not even know you already have so you can have the life you want. The types of counseling I have special training in can be used to help in a variety of situations. Let’s get together to see what we can figure out.
(716) 209-3926 View (716) 209-3926
Photo of Tara Kohler, LMHC, Counselor
Tara Kohler
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
Have you been struggling and seeking answers? Have you been wanting to find help, but don't know where to look? Well, I am here to encourage, support and guide you through your healing journey. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with seven years experience working with individuals with a variety of mental health concerns. Whether you're experiencing daily life stressors, generalized anxiety or depression, impulsivity concerns or a history of trauma, I am here to help. Your goals are my goals; let's identify and work towards achieving them together.
Have you been struggling and seeking answers? Have you been wanting to find help, but don't know where to look? Well, I am here to encourage, support and guide you through your healing journey. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with seven years experience working with individuals with a variety of mental health concerns. Whether you're experiencing daily life stressors, generalized anxiety or depression, impulsivity concerns or a history of trauma, I am here to help. Your goals are my goals; let's identify and work towards achieving them together.
(716) 317-5870 View (716) 317-5870
Photo of Caitlin Violanti - Violanti Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, LMHC, Counselor
Violanti Mental Health Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Aurora, NY 14052
Are you having difficulty navigating the challenges of day-to-day life? Do small tasks seem like giant hurdles to overcome or complete? Are you having difficulty being present in the moment, or have you recently experienced a new life event that you're finding difficult to adjust to? Fostering self-awareness, inner peace, and a self-guided exploration of your true authentic self are pillars of my practice. Let's work together to identify positive ways to cope with every day stressors, all while reinforcing your personal strengths, and promoting overall wellness.
Are you having difficulty navigating the challenges of day-to-day life? Do small tasks seem like giant hurdles to overcome or complete? Are you having difficulty being present in the moment, or have you recently experienced a new life event that you're finding difficult to adjust to? Fostering self-awareness, inner peace, and a self-guided exploration of your true authentic self are pillars of my practice. Let's work together to identify positive ways to cope with every day stressors, all while reinforcing your personal strengths, and promoting overall wellness.
(716) 588-1969 View (716) 588-1969

See more therapy options for East Aurora

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.