EMDR Therapists in Eden, NY
![Photo of Jennifer Klein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fe197f1b-2ad9-4cd9-acca-71289cd9a6c7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Fortunately, treatment approaches such as NET (Neuro Emotional Technique) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) can transform the way our bodies process trauma.
Do you find yourself feeling “stuck”? Repeating the same mistakes over and over again, especially when it comes to your relationships with other people? Unfortunately, when childhood traumas go unresolved, we often find ourselves repeating the patterns of our childhood in our adult relationships with friends, co-workers and significant others. Unresolved trauma effects not just our thoughts and feelings about ourselves, but also how we respond to others.
Fortunately, treatment approaches such as NET (Neuro Emotional Technique) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) can transform the way our bodies process trauma.
Do you find yourself feeling “stuck”? Repeating the same mistakes over and over again, especially when it comes to your relationships with other people? Unfortunately, when childhood traumas go unresolved, we often find ourselves repeating the patterns of our childhood in our adult relationships with friends, co-workers and significant others. Unresolved trauma effects not just our thoughts and feelings about ourselves, but also how we respond to others.
![Photo of Lauren Damstetter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/82e29b7d-937c-4cfe-9dba-469903d27377/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR, AF-EMDR, IFS, ACT and have experience using DBT, and incorporate a polyvagal and an attachment focus to healing.
Life can be hard at times and it can leave you feeling stuck and hopeless, but there is hope. I believe you deserve to live a life in which you are thriving instead of surviving. I can help you begin to understand, transform, and heal your pain so that you can live a fulfilling and meaningful life. One of the bravest things we can do is to begin to understand ourselves and you don’t have to go on that journey alone. I will provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space to foster your healing journey. “When we have the courage to walk into our story and own it, we get to write the ending” -Brene Brown
I am trained in EMDR, AF-EMDR, IFS, ACT and have experience using DBT, and incorporate a polyvagal and an attachment focus to healing.
Life can be hard at times and it can leave you feeling stuck and hopeless, but there is hope. I believe you deserve to live a life in which you are thriving instead of surviving. I can help you begin to understand, transform, and heal your pain so that you can live a fulfilling and meaningful life. One of the bravest things we can do is to begin to understand ourselves and you don’t have to go on that journey alone. I will provide a compassionate and nonjudgmental space to foster your healing journey. “When we have the courage to walk into our story and own it, we get to write the ending” -Brene Brown
![Photo of Gabriel Birkby, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/77ae3f59-b82b-4daa-a2c3-c7dd43a416b4/1/320x400.png)
Do you struggle with feelings of depression and anxiety? Perhaps stress, anger or past trauma are getting in the way of living your life now? You are not alone. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR. I love working with adults who are ready to take on their problems. I cannot wait to help you take those first steps towards your goals! Send and email, make an appointment request, or give me a call to chat.
Do you struggle with feelings of depression and anxiety? Perhaps stress, anger or past trauma are getting in the way of living your life now? You are not alone. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR. I love working with adults who are ready to take on their problems. I cannot wait to help you take those first steps towards your goals! Send and email, make an appointment request, or give me a call to chat.
Our therapies include (but are not limited to): Bilateral Stimulation (EMDR/ART), DBT, Neurofeedback, Alpha Stimulation, medication management and Virtual Reality Therapy.
Our practice listens to our clients and provides a variety of therapy and counseling approaches to meet our client's needs. We know that life can get difficult at times and we believe that counseling can help you to see the situation from a different point of view to facilitate change. Our focus is to help individuals and families heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and providing each client with a customer treatment plan. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow.
Our therapies include (but are not limited to): Bilateral Stimulation (EMDR/ART), DBT, Neurofeedback, Alpha Stimulation, medication management and Virtual Reality Therapy.
Our practice listens to our clients and provides a variety of therapy and counseling approaches to meet our client's needs. We know that life can get difficult at times and we believe that counseling can help you to see the situation from a different point of view to facilitate change. Our focus is to help individuals and families heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. We achieve this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and providing each client with a customer treatment plan. We promise to be there for you every step of your journey. Our goal is to help you grow.
![Photo of Robin Carter, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/57c833a9-cf74-4509-a8d1-419fa3c0a396/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am someone who is fortunate enough to love my job! It is very rewarding to watch my clients grow as they work through anxious thoughts, depressed moods, traumatic memories, relationship challenges and complicated childhood experiences. If you think I might be the right fit for you and you are ready to take that next step, It would be my privilege to help you to figure out a plan in creating positive change in your life. We will work together to sort through your thoughts and behaviors, while learning positive coping strategies for symptom management.
I am someone who is fortunate enough to love my job! It is very rewarding to watch my clients grow as they work through anxious thoughts, depressed moods, traumatic memories, relationship challenges and complicated childhood experiences. If you think I might be the right fit for you and you are ready to take that next step, It would be my privilege to help you to figure out a plan in creating positive change in your life. We will work together to sort through your thoughts and behaviors, while learning positive coping strategies for symptom management.
![Photo of Brett Harpp, MS, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56f26a2f-7b69-4576-8db7-f5522a0a1929/3/320x400.jpeg)
EMDR certified.
Like Brett Butler or Lady Brett Ashley, I am a female with a traditionally male name. My background is as unique as my name, qualifying me to treat a diverse spectrum of people and issues. I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC). My specialty is trauma and dissociation. I am EMDR certified and trained by ASCH in advanced clinical hypnosis. I take a person centered, holistic approach in my work and am strongly aware of the mind-body connection. Laughter, tears, breath, thoughts, feelings, behaviors: expect to explore them all!
EMDR certified.
Like Brett Butler or Lady Brett Ashley, I am a female with a traditionally male name. My background is as unique as my name, qualifying me to treat a diverse spectrum of people and issues. I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC). My specialty is trauma and dissociation. I am EMDR certified and trained by ASCH in advanced clinical hypnosis. I take a person centered, holistic approach in my work and am strongly aware of the mind-body connection. Laughter, tears, breath, thoughts, feelings, behaviors: expect to explore them all!
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Kelly L Sutton, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1eacb3e9-b9f4-4cb9-bd55-c535816ad3cf/4/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with teens and adults who are navigating challenging times in their lives. I specialize in working with those who need help coping with anxiety, depression, past trauma as well as life transitions. I am familiar with a wide variety of treatment strategies with the ability to introduce you to skills that can help you reduce stress, improve relationships and build a fulfilling life. I am trauma informed and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience working with teens and adults who are navigating challenging times in their lives. I specialize in working with those who need help coping with anxiety, depression, past trauma as well as life transitions. I am familiar with a wide variety of treatment strategies with the ability to introduce you to skills that can help you reduce stress, improve relationships and build a fulfilling life. I am trauma informed and trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
![Photo of Jerry S Kelly, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c91d607-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in Trauma Informed Counseling, and am Certified in EMDR.
Are you feeling sad, lonely or stuck?. Depression and anxiety can rob of us the joy of the present. We all need someone to listen to us - but effective counseling involves working with someone who can help you to achieve results. I have over 24 years of experience providing counseling to individuals, families and parents. I have helped many adults who have struggled with Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship issues. Many that I work with are able with my help to resolve their problems and live more satisfying and full lives in the present.
I specialize in Trauma Informed Counseling, and am Certified in EMDR.
Are you feeling sad, lonely or stuck?. Depression and anxiety can rob of us the joy of the present. We all need someone to listen to us - but effective counseling involves working with someone who can help you to achieve results. I have over 24 years of experience providing counseling to individuals, families and parents. I have helped many adults who have struggled with Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and Relationship issues. Many that I work with are able with my help to resolve their problems and live more satisfying and full lives in the present.
![Photo of Jackie Rogers, LCSWR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fde75160-3f04-438b-af97-4240f96cfc90/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jackie Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
Hamburg, NY 14075 (Online Only)
I am trained in a variety of mental health treatments that include psychotherapy, emotional regulation, EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Life doesn’t always go the way we planned. Sometimes we get stuck and find ourselves feeling hopeless. You are not alone. Many people I work with have had negative experiences in their lives that continue to affect them in different ways; such as, having meaningful relationships with others. Some people say that fear and worry run their lives. Whatever it may be, I will help you gain insight into your problems and learn new ways to resolve conflicts, develop more confidence, and begin to live the life you want.
I am trained in a variety of mental health treatments that include psychotherapy, emotional regulation, EMDR, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Life doesn’t always go the way we planned. Sometimes we get stuck and find ourselves feeling hopeless. You are not alone. Many people I work with have had negative experiences in their lives that continue to affect them in different ways; such as, having meaningful relationships with others. Some people say that fear and worry run their lives. Whatever it may be, I will help you gain insight into your problems and learn new ways to resolve conflicts, develop more confidence, and begin to live the life you want.
![Photo of Jill Dunstan, LMHC, CASAC 2, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/31e85b4b-2c62-4233-b2b2-c3a2f5392b73/3/320x400.jpeg)
Jill Dunstan
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC 2
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hamburg, NY 14075
Waitlist for new clients
” I am trained in EMDR, CBT and offer Telehealth.
By creating a space where you can navigate difficult feelings, emotions, and all of life stresses my goal is to help you live a full life that is filled with joy. This may be because you are feeling stuck and unfulfilled in your life, or you may be unable to move forward after a difficult event or a traumatic experience. Or you are looking for guidance to discover peace with your inner self. I know how you feel: tired, confused, searching for meaning or barely being able to keep up with your endless thoughts or doom for your future. Connect with me: https://jilldunstan.wixsite.com/jilldunstantherapist
” I am trained in EMDR, CBT and offer Telehealth.
By creating a space where you can navigate difficult feelings, emotions, and all of life stresses my goal is to help you live a full life that is filled with joy. This may be because you are feeling stuck and unfulfilled in your life, or you may be unable to move forward after a difficult event or a traumatic experience. Or you are looking for guidance to discover peace with your inner self. I know how you feel: tired, confused, searching for meaning or barely being able to keep up with your endless thoughts or doom for your future. Connect with me: https://jilldunstan.wixsite.com/jilldunstantherapist
![Photo of Jason Shear, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/512c2332-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize bilateral stimulation (EMDR and A.
Feeling stuck? World crumbling around you? Relationships falling apart? Sometimes it feels like doors are slamming shut on us, and the world is becoming a very dark place. What prevents you from reaching out? Is it the stigma, or do you feel like no one cares? Your mental health matters, and help is closer than you think; it's just a phone call away. You've been suffering in silence, maybe it's time to do something about it. Let's break the silence, and crush the stigma of mental health, which prevents so many people from getting the help they need.
I utilize bilateral stimulation (EMDR and A.
Feeling stuck? World crumbling around you? Relationships falling apart? Sometimes it feels like doors are slamming shut on us, and the world is becoming a very dark place. What prevents you from reaching out? Is it the stigma, or do you feel like no one cares? Your mental health matters, and help is closer than you think; it's just a phone call away. You've been suffering in silence, maybe it's time to do something about it. Let's break the silence, and crush the stigma of mental health, which prevents so many people from getting the help they need.
![Photo of Lynette Lex, PhD, LCAT, CASAC, Art Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ffb38a9b-375c-4b74-88a6-30846a77078c/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lynette Lex has a unique Art Therapy Studio, Life is Art, where Art Therapy, EMDR and a holistic wellness approach to therapy are combined. Meditation, Mindfulness, Reiki and Aromatherapy are often included in sessions. Art Therapy gives a non-verbal means for expression when words are not enough. This Art Therapy Studio has a large space where both individuals and groups are able to create. This is a safe and inviting atmosphere where trauma can be addressed and healing is possible. Tela Health appointments are also available. Private pay and Cigna/ Evernorth.
Lynette Lex has a unique Art Therapy Studio, Life is Art, where Art Therapy, EMDR and a holistic wellness approach to therapy are combined. Meditation, Mindfulness, Reiki and Aromatherapy are often included in sessions. Art Therapy gives a non-verbal means for expression when words are not enough. This Art Therapy Studio has a large space where both individuals and groups are able to create. This is a safe and inviting atmosphere where trauma can be addressed and healing is possible. Tela Health appointments are also available. Private pay and Cigna/ Evernorth.
![Photo of Adrael Bushman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4248c6b0-0e84-44ad-a0d1-1c9bba353915/1/320x400.jpeg)
Because we all have different strengths, needs, and ways of learning, I employ a diverse skillset, but EMDR (an effective treatment for PTSD), parts-oriented therapies such as IFS, and ACT are at the heart of my practice.
Meaningful positive change is possible, and it starts with taking the risk to do something different. That is brave work, and I am here to support people in doing it. I believe it's possible to relate to any experience in a way that allows for peace and growth. That doesn't mean it is easy. Life can be difficult, and harder to navigate if we've not been able to address past adversity and missing pieces. Through experience, I've found self-compassion to be key in healing and growth. It can be cultivated. My approach is collaborative, direct, and supportive. I welcome people as they are, and am open to learning from my clients.
Because we all have different strengths, needs, and ways of learning, I employ a diverse skillset, but EMDR (an effective treatment for PTSD), parts-oriented therapies such as IFS, and ACT are at the heart of my practice.
Meaningful positive change is possible, and it starts with taking the risk to do something different. That is brave work, and I am here to support people in doing it. I believe it's possible to relate to any experience in a way that allows for peace and growth. That doesn't mean it is easy. Life can be difficult, and harder to navigate if we've not been able to address past adversity and missing pieces. Through experience, I've found self-compassion to be key in healing and growth. It can be cultivated. My approach is collaborative, direct, and supportive. I welcome people as they are, and am open to learning from my clients.
![Photo of Dr. Kathryn (Katie) Diebold, DSW, LMSW](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1e8fe50-ec7d-4af7-abd0-222d9e0756f2/1/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Kathryn (Katie) Diebold
Licensed Master Social Worker, DSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hamburg, NY 14075
NOT Currently Accepting New Clients. Are you feeling stuck or unable to move on from events that happened in your past? Do you feel like you keep repeating the same cycles over and over again? I have worked with many clients from diverse backgrounds to move forward from past traumas and to find peace. I serve as a guide to help clients navigate their own unique road to healing and truth through the use of EMDR, an evidence based intervention for trauma. I am a licensed social worker with over 15 years of human service experience and I have a doctorate degree in social work. I also use humor and laughter to bring joy to our sessions.
NOT Currently Accepting New Clients. Are you feeling stuck or unable to move on from events that happened in your past? Do you feel like you keep repeating the same cycles over and over again? I have worked with many clients from diverse backgrounds to move forward from past traumas and to find peace. I serve as a guide to help clients navigate their own unique road to healing and truth through the use of EMDR, an evidence based intervention for trauma. I am a licensed social worker with over 15 years of human service experience and I have a doctorate degree in social work. I also use humor and laughter to bring joy to our sessions.
![Photo of Melissa Heusinger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b9a1764-4c04-4024-952c-8194c52d98c7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Heusinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hamburg, NY 14075 (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.
![Photo of Kathryn Raffloer, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0de4e9c0-7a87-4b88-a08e-e7a6be6e28cf/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am also EMDR trained for those seeking to process past traumas.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Tired? Feeling like you are stuck in the past? Life throws so much at you; you don’t know where to start. You want to improve who you are and feel that you are moving in a direction that you get to choose. You want to feel in control of life again and that you are no longer living in the past. You want to feel more freedom. Looking for help is a wonderful starting point on your journey.
I am also EMDR trained for those seeking to process past traumas.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Tired? Feeling like you are stuck in the past? Life throws so much at you; you don’t know where to start. You want to improve who you are and feel that you are moving in a direction that you get to choose. You want to feel in control of life again and that you are no longer living in the past. You want to feel more freedom. Looking for help is a wonderful starting point on your journey.
![Photo of Alexandrea Wallgren, LMHC, MS, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1655e368-fd61-4769-9ca4-8ffe7839b26d/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in treating post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, grief, and addiction by utilizing evidence-based practices including EMDR, DBT, Schema Work, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing.
We may experience things in our lives that feel like they change who we are and our view of the world. As a result, we may feel loneliness, distrust, anger, sadness, numbness, shame, and guilt. We may not allow ourselves to experience the wide range of human emotions and limit our connection with others as a way to protect ourselves. I believe that people are resilient, able to heal from trauma, and can reconnect with their authentic, genuine selves.
I specialize in treating post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety, grief, and addiction by utilizing evidence-based practices including EMDR, DBT, Schema Work, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing.
We may experience things in our lives that feel like they change who we are and our view of the world. As a result, we may feel loneliness, distrust, anger, sadness, numbness, shame, and guilt. We may not allow ourselves to experience the wide range of human emotions and limit our connection with others as a way to protect ourselves. I believe that people are resilient, able to heal from trauma, and can reconnect with their authentic, genuine selves.
![Photo of Erin Gurnett, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b7a0a1a9-18ef-4219-83b9-d42d89d23b08/1/320x400.jpeg)
Erin Gurnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hamburg, NY 14075
Trained in treating trauma, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, mood and personality disorders I utilize EMDR, DBT, CBT, Solution-Focused, MI and Schema modalities.
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” (Carl Rodgers) We can’t change what we do not explore and the first step in the direction of that journey is always the hardest. But you are here already taking that step, looking for someone to assist with the change that you seek. Everyday life can be in the way of focusing on healing from our past, management of stress/mental health issues and making changes for our future. Setting aside time for yourself is important! You are important!
Trained in treating trauma, PTSD, ADHD, anxiety, mood and personality disorders I utilize EMDR, DBT, CBT, Solution-Focused, MI and Schema modalities.
“The good life is a process, not a state of being. It is a direction, not a destination.” (Carl Rodgers) We can’t change what we do not explore and the first step in the direction of that journey is always the hardest. But you are here already taking that step, looking for someone to assist with the change that you seek. Everyday life can be in the way of focusing on healing from our past, management of stress/mental health issues and making changes for our future. Setting aside time for yourself is important! You are important!
![Photo of Bessie Fitzgerald, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/76b6e9f2-a1bf-4fa7-b7fe-392b22ce4b87/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of trauma.
From the outside it looks like things are going well, but you know that isn’t the whole story. Inside you're struggling with worry and feelings of unease and insecurity. Maybe you feel sad or on edge, and can’t focus on the things you love. Perhaps it feels like the world is caving in on you as others look on. These are just a few symptoms that are familiar to clients who seek therapy with me. Although I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients, I specialize in working with young adults who struggle with traumatic memories, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and low self-esteem.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of trauma.
From the outside it looks like things are going well, but you know that isn’t the whole story. Inside you're struggling with worry and feelings of unease and insecurity. Maybe you feel sad or on edge, and can’t focus on the things you love. Perhaps it feels like the world is caving in on you as others look on. These are just a few symptoms that are familiar to clients who seek therapy with me. Although I enjoy working with a diverse range of clients, I specialize in working with young adults who struggle with traumatic memories, anxiety, depression, self-harm, and low self-esteem.
![Photo of Holly Ann Silverthorn, LMHC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb329373-15ea-43e7-8dd3-c4d821b6e069/2/320x400.jpeg)
Holly Ann Silverthorn
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Hamburg, NY 14075 (Online Only)
I operate from Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral therapy.
I can help you recover from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and more. Therapy can be challenging work. I can make it easier with good humor, compassion, and authenticity. If you decide that it is the right time for you to make some changes, I am ready to help you move toward living a more fulfilling life. (Please contact me via email or phone for scheduling)..
I operate from Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral therapy.
I can help you recover from anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, and more. Therapy can be challenging work. I can make it easier with good humor, compassion, and authenticity. If you decide that it is the right time for you to make some changes, I am ready to help you move toward living a more fulfilling life. (Please contact me via email or phone for scheduling)..
See more therapy options for Eden
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Eden
- Buffalo
- Cheektowaga
- Depew
- East Aurora
- Elma
- Hamburg
- Lake View
- Lancaster
- Orchard Park
- Snyder
- Springville
- West Seneca
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.