EMDR Therapists in Lockport, NY
![Photo of Katie Brandt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2b3cc9f0-5ae9-45e8-895b-40fc60642cf9/3/320x400.jpeg)
I also have a focus in trauma and offer EMDR.
Feeling stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, angry, or depressed? Are you going through life transitions and seeking some guidance and support? Or, have you always felt something was off but were too embarrassed, scared, or confused to talk about it? Have you experienced trauma and feel disconnected from yourself, others and the world? Are you looking to improve the relationship with yourself, friends/family, and significant others? Do you want to feel in control of your emotions and in control of your life?
I also have a focus in trauma and offer EMDR.
Feeling stuck, anxious, overwhelmed, angry, or depressed? Are you going through life transitions and seeking some guidance and support? Or, have you always felt something was off but were too embarrassed, scared, or confused to talk about it? Have you experienced trauma and feel disconnected from yourself, others and the world? Are you looking to improve the relationship with yourself, friends/family, and significant others? Do you want to feel in control of your emotions and in control of your life?
![Photo of Brighid Schuler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/894f33fe-59fd-42a9-b33b-cd71f9c66c3c/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you anxious? Struggling with depression? I’m here to help. I utilize CBT, EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing with my clients and have been in practice since 2014. I believe recovery is possible for everyone and getting help is the first step toward changing your life. A little about my philosophy… I believe each person has inherent dignity and worth. One of my missions in practice is to help every client to see this reality within themselves and to restore the broken pieces that were lost along the way.
Are you anxious? Struggling with depression? I’m here to help. I utilize CBT, EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing with my clients and have been in practice since 2014. I believe recovery is possible for everyone and getting help is the first step toward changing your life. A little about my philosophy… I believe each person has inherent dignity and worth. One of my missions in practice is to help every client to see this reality within themselves and to restore the broken pieces that were lost along the way.
![Photo of Angela J Docenko, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d25bfaa8-ffaa-4c78-ae05-d550da03cb56/1/320x400.png)
I offer EMDR therapy for trauma.
Hello Beautiful! Yes you! I believe every part of you is important & that you CAN find what you seek & achieve a balance. Sometimes we just need someone to listen. My ears are all yours! I strive to create a safe space for us to work together one step at a time, building a trusting relationship where we can explore your world, what you are experiencing & what you need. Together we will create a plan of treatment to help you achieve your goals! I have a varied & unique background of life experiences that I apply to my practice; & enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life.
I offer EMDR therapy for trauma.
Hello Beautiful! Yes you! I believe every part of you is important & that you CAN find what you seek & achieve a balance. Sometimes we just need someone to listen. My ears are all yours! I strive to create a safe space for us to work together one step at a time, building a trusting relationship where we can explore your world, what you are experiencing & what you need. Together we will create a plan of treatment to help you achieve your goals! I have a varied & unique background of life experiences that I apply to my practice; & enjoy working with individuals from all walks of life.
![Photo of Jessica Whitley, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f26cf93-5d2e-4860-8ec4-b74a057ce201/2/320x400.jpeg)
I want to help you feel as good as you possibly can and to help you make the changes to get there! I use several therapeutic approaches to help you reach your goals, including EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, behavioral techniques, and solution-focused therapy.
I work with individuals age 12 and up and truly enjoy working with my clients to help them meet their goals. I have a very wide range of experience working with clients who have struggled with many challenges including anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship stressors, ADHD, autism, relational and attachment trauma, and every day stress.
I want to help you feel as good as you possibly can and to help you make the changes to get there! I use several therapeutic approaches to help you reach your goals, including EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, behavioral techniques, and solution-focused therapy.
I work with individuals age 12 and up and truly enjoy working with my clients to help them meet their goals. I have a very wide range of experience working with clients who have struggled with many challenges including anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship stressors, ADHD, autism, relational and attachment trauma, and every day stress.
![Photo of Jennifer E Fritton, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53c345ee-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My approach to healing is strengths-based and trauma-informed and utilizes a variety of Evidence Based Practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Congratulations! If you are reading this, you have found the courage to take an important step towards taking care of yourself. Perhaps counseling is something you have been putting off for a long time believing that others would judge you as weak, or that other needs in your life were more important. We have all experienced various degrees of trauma in our lives. Sometimes we find it difficult to move forward because of overwhelming emotions and self-limiting beliefs. Obtaining counseling is in fact a strong and wise decision. I would consider it a privilege to join you on your journey of discovery and healing.
My approach to healing is strengths-based and trauma-informed and utilizes a variety of Evidence Based Practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
Congratulations! If you are reading this, you have found the courage to take an important step towards taking care of yourself. Perhaps counseling is something you have been putting off for a long time believing that others would judge you as weak, or that other needs in your life were more important. We have all experienced various degrees of trauma in our lives. Sometimes we find it difficult to move forward because of overwhelming emotions and self-limiting beliefs. Obtaining counseling is in fact a strong and wise decision. I would consider it a privilege to join you on your journey of discovery and healing.
![Photo of Jillian Sternberg, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c5984fff-5f93-42c3-a113-265268a3977e/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jillian Sternberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Lockport, NY 14094 (Online Only)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is used to help make traumatic memories less overwhelming and more manageable.
If you find yourself facing the aftermath of trauma, or navigating the intricate landscape of grief and loss, I am here to offer support and understanding. Whether you're seeking affirmation and a safe space to explore your LGBTQ+ identity or dealing with the challenges of depression, anxiety, personality disorders, or substance use, your needs and goals are my priority. From kids to seniors, my practice spans across generations. Each age group receives personalized support designed to address their specific life stages and challenges.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is used to help make traumatic memories less overwhelming and more manageable.
If you find yourself facing the aftermath of trauma, or navigating the intricate landscape of grief and loss, I am here to offer support and understanding. Whether you're seeking affirmation and a safe space to explore your LGBTQ+ identity or dealing with the challenges of depression, anxiety, personality disorders, or substance use, your needs and goals are my priority. From kids to seniors, my practice spans across generations. Each age group receives personalized support designed to address their specific life stages and challenges.
![Photo of Patty Mccalister, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0810a29f-e020-4846-9a11-3f9d6f1e857b/3/320x400.jpeg)
On life's journey there can be bumps, hills and mountains for us to climb. At times, that climb may feel impossible and you may feel unable to do it alone. Reaching out for someone to help you move forward is not easy, it takes courage and strength. I would be honored to help you climb those bumps, hills and mountains. Together we can discover what you need to find inner peace and contentment.
On life's journey there can be bumps, hills and mountains for us to climb. At times, that climb may feel impossible and you may feel unable to do it alone. Reaching out for someone to help you move forward is not easy, it takes courage and strength. I would be honored to help you climb those bumps, hills and mountains. Together we can discover what you need to find inner peace and contentment.
![Photo of Jacquie Chavers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/774f7b56-cdbb-402a-b702-b36ac63094b8/1/320x400.jpeg)
Be proud of yourself. If you have found my profile, you have already taken the first step toward helping yourself, this may be the most difficult of them. If you're looking for support toward healing past traumas or navigating any symptoms you may not even understand, such as anxiety or depression. If you're tired of "being over dramatic", having nightmares, panic attacks or even, struggling to get out of bed, take that second step and reach out. Therapy can be scary, but so can the thought of being stuck in the cycle your body and mind are finding you in now.
Be proud of yourself. If you have found my profile, you have already taken the first step toward helping yourself, this may be the most difficult of them. If you're looking for support toward healing past traumas or navigating any symptoms you may not even understand, such as anxiety or depression. If you're tired of "being over dramatic", having nightmares, panic attacks or even, struggling to get out of bed, take that second step and reach out. Therapy can be scary, but so can the thought of being stuck in the cycle your body and mind are finding you in now.
![Photo of Carrie Ruvio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d91d656-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
"Some prisons don't require bars to keep people locked inside. All it takes is their perception that they belong there. A soul who believes that he/she can't leave, doesn't." Sometimes it just takes someone to help support you through your process of breaking free, so you can grow as you are meant to. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has had 10+ years experience conducting Mental Health counseling to adults & children, & providing Domestic Violence advocacy, assisting survivors through the Family Court & Criminal Court process, safety planning, & being an emotional support through the healing process.
"Some prisons don't require bars to keep people locked inside. All it takes is their perception that they belong there. A soul who believes that he/she can't leave, doesn't." Sometimes it just takes someone to help support you through your process of breaking free, so you can grow as you are meant to. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has had 10+ years experience conducting Mental Health counseling to adults & children, & providing Domestic Violence advocacy, assisting survivors through the Family Court & Criminal Court process, safety planning, & being an emotional support through the healing process.
![Photo of Suzanne L Moxham, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1096396f-3c2b-43a8-8ba2-301a0297d4ba/3/320x400.jpeg)
We sometimes find ourselves struggling with major life changes, day-to-day stressors, and physical health issues. These can lead to depression, anxiety, panic, and/or other negative feelings that can be overwhelming and cause disruption in day-to-day functioning and in relationships. Sometimes, these situations and feelings can even trigger traumas from the past, which can lead to further dysfunction. It can be a tough decision to take the step to call a therapist, but it can also be the first step towards taking back your life.
We sometimes find ourselves struggling with major life changes, day-to-day stressors, and physical health issues. These can lead to depression, anxiety, panic, and/or other negative feelings that can be overwhelming and cause disruption in day-to-day functioning and in relationships. Sometimes, these situations and feelings can even trigger traumas from the past, which can lead to further dysfunction. It can be a tough decision to take the step to call a therapist, but it can also be the first step towards taking back your life.
![Photo of Lesley Amy Martin - WNY Holistic Counseling Center, MA, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4af6916b-b48e-4646-8a46-e19106b7f5e7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Life can often be challenging. You may feel you've gotten "off track" and need some direction. You may be overwhelmed with things and don't know what to do or how to make it better. It may be starting to affect your relationships, and you don't know how to stop it. You may be wondering what's wrong with you and why this keeps happening, or whether you're depressed. Perhaps you're having panic attacks that come out of nowhere. Or maybe you seem to have developed social anxiety. Perhaps you just don't feel like yourself or aren't content with your life. You want things to be different, you just don't know how to make that happen. You might be wondering whether you're always going to feel this way. You've got a lot going for you, you've accomplished quite a bit, but it still feels like there's something missing. You're not sure what else to do. Most of us feel this way at some point in our lives. Especially when trying to handle the stress of life, relationships and the impact of certain events all at once.
Life can often be challenging. You may feel you've gotten "off track" and need some direction. You may be overwhelmed with things and don't know what to do or how to make it better. It may be starting to affect your relationships, and you don't know how to stop it. You may be wondering what's wrong with you and why this keeps happening, or whether you're depressed. Perhaps you're having panic attacks that come out of nowhere. Or maybe you seem to have developed social anxiety. Perhaps you just don't feel like yourself or aren't content with your life. You want things to be different, you just don't know how to make that happen. You might be wondering whether you're always going to feel this way. You've got a lot going for you, you've accomplished quite a bit, but it still feels like there's something missing. You're not sure what else to do. Most of us feel this way at some point in our lives. Especially when trying to handle the stress of life, relationships and the impact of certain events all at once.
![Photo of Chris Roche, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/10f917ab-3090-4d65-a89f-3d570b837958/1/320x400.jpeg)
Unwanted thoughts, anxiety and depression can be very difficult to manage. Sometimes we feel all alone or lost and need someone to help get us on track. Please allow me to help you grow and develop into the person you want to be in a safe, supportive counseling environment. My goal is to help you feel empowered and confident in your abilities to manage the challenges in your life.
Unwanted thoughts, anxiety and depression can be very difficult to manage. Sometimes we feel all alone or lost and need someone to help get us on track. Please allow me to help you grow and develop into the person you want to be in a safe, supportive counseling environment. My goal is to help you feel empowered and confident in your abilities to manage the challenges in your life.
![Photo of Grace I Clark-Burch, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3d36fd5f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Grace I Clark-Burch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lockport, NY 14094
Not accepting new clients
I have added EMDR to my treatment repertoire.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have over 17 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I have worked in numerous settings including: outpatient, inpatient, residential and detention settings. I have experience and a strong interest in working with folks ages 3 and up. I have developed a proficiency in treating issues of attachment, loss, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Trauma, foster care or adoption, identity struggles, juvenile offenders, those who self-injure and many different behavioral disorders as well as the associated parenting difficulties.
I have added EMDR to my treatment repertoire.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and I have over 17 years of experience working with children, adults and families. I have worked in numerous settings including: outpatient, inpatient, residential and detention settings. I have experience and a strong interest in working with folks ages 3 and up. I have developed a proficiency in treating issues of attachment, loss, anxiety, depression, ADHD, Trauma, foster care or adoption, identity struggles, juvenile offenders, those who self-injure and many different behavioral disorders as well as the associated parenting difficulties.
![Photo of Lorraine Wright, LCSW, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1d47f186-3d6d-4eb8-9cdf-4691a9b691ec/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lorraine Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Lockport, NY 14094
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in (EMDR) Trauma Therapy and have more than 20 years of Grief and Loss experience.
Hello my name is Lorraine and I have been working in mental health for over 31 years. Life can become overwhelming with stress, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences and even loss and the past few years of a pandemic have been no exception. “Please know that you are not alone” My goal is to guide you through your journey of healing and to strengthen the skills needed to improve the quality of your emotional health.
I am trained in (EMDR) Trauma Therapy and have more than 20 years of Grief and Loss experience.
Hello my name is Lorraine and I have been working in mental health for over 31 years. Life can become overwhelming with stress, anxiety, depression, traumatic experiences and even loss and the past few years of a pandemic have been no exception. “Please know that you are not alone” My goal is to guide you through your journey of healing and to strengthen the skills needed to improve the quality of your emotional health.
![Photo of Deniz N Degirmenci - Authentically Whole Counseling, PLLC, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bae4883c-805f-44fd-8c8a-86b615d84141/3/320x400.jpeg)
Authentically Whole Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Lockport, NY 14094
Not accepting new clients
Hello and thank yourself for taking the first step toward healing and becoming whole! Working with trauma and the past is an incredible passion of mine. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), which allows me to help get to the root of issues for clients instead of just tackling surface symptoms. I take the belief that many issues stem from our younger years, which is why working to resolve these wounds lets us form a more healthy functional adult self. I truly believe in our capabilities and think we are all so much stronger than we think.
Hello and thank yourself for taking the first step toward healing and becoming whole! Working with trauma and the past is an incredible passion of mine. I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), which allows me to help get to the root of issues for clients instead of just tackling surface symptoms. I take the belief that many issues stem from our younger years, which is why working to resolve these wounds lets us form a more healthy functional adult self. I truly believe in our capabilities and think we are all so much stronger than we think.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Anna E Shurmatz - Shurmatz Counseling LCSW PC, LCSWR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2bf92f9-bf87-45cc-bfb8-1817c03bf559/1/320x400.jpeg)
We get that! We offer authentic connection to therapists who are trained in evidence based practices, including ACT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
You haven’t felt good for months. You can’t get out of your head and your thoughts are constantly racing. Your feelings are in the driver’s seat of your life instead of you. You feel like no one understands, and you’re all alone. All you want to do is change this! Yet you feel so restless, you can't be still or concentrate on one thing for very long. We want to offer you hope that it doesn't have to stay this way. It’s possible to feel whole and alive again. Your nightmares don’t have to haunt you into the day. You can have peace and connection, with yourself and with others. Your joy and energy for life aren’t gone forever.
We get that! We offer authentic connection to therapists who are trained in evidence based practices, including ACT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, play therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy.
You haven’t felt good for months. You can’t get out of your head and your thoughts are constantly racing. Your feelings are in the driver’s seat of your life instead of you. You feel like no one understands, and you’re all alone. All you want to do is change this! Yet you feel so restless, you can't be still or concentrate on one thing for very long. We want to offer you hope that it doesn't have to stay this way. It’s possible to feel whole and alive again. Your nightmares don’t have to haunt you into the day. You can have peace and connection, with yourself and with others. Your joy and energy for life aren’t gone forever.
![Photo of Lisa M Balderman, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/fa4885d4-5fcb-4bef-a73e-dfff1f7557a5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lisa M Balderman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Amherst, NY 14051
I am trained in EMDR, Progressive Counting, and brainspotting.
Psychotherapy provides an environment where you can learn about yourself and create change in your life. I work to provide a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental and confidential environment for my clients to begin to achieve their goals and to regain a sense of satisfaction with their lives. In addition to my physical office space located in a suburb of Buffalo, NY I offer teletherapy to clients all over NYS, and Florida through a secure HIPPA compliant platform.
I am trained in EMDR, Progressive Counting, and brainspotting.
Psychotherapy provides an environment where you can learn about yourself and create change in your life. I work to provide a safe, comfortable, non-judgmental and confidential environment for my clients to begin to achieve their goals and to regain a sense of satisfaction with their lives. In addition to my physical office space located in a suburb of Buffalo, NY I offer teletherapy to clients all over NYS, and Florida through a secure HIPPA compliant platform.
![Photo of Sarah Detty, LMHC, MS](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c0fa9fbf-726c-4770-8ab6-243244a9c30c/2/320x400.jpeg)
I offer a supportive, safe, and genuine approach to counseling that empowers my clients to achieve personal growth and develop skills to overcome the challenges and barriers they face in their lives. I use a combination of EMDR, Internal Family Systems, attachment focused therapy, CBT, DBT, and schema therapy to help clients gain skills and resources on their journey to wellness. With my training from Postpartum Support International, I also specialize in working with the perinatal population as they face the challenges that becoming new parents may bring.
I offer a supportive, safe, and genuine approach to counseling that empowers my clients to achieve personal growth and develop skills to overcome the challenges and barriers they face in their lives. I use a combination of EMDR, Internal Family Systems, attachment focused therapy, CBT, DBT, and schema therapy to help clients gain skills and resources on their journey to wellness. With my training from Postpartum Support International, I also specialize in working with the perinatal population as they face the challenges that becoming new parents may bring.
![Photo of Liese Zilberleyt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b9cf57a8-7b76-4224-b712-73a7ea3c5dc2/3/320x400.jpeg)
Liese Zilberleyt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Amherst, NY 14051 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am LCSW specializing in healing from trauma, overcoming depression, building self confidence and managing anxiety. I am trained in EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness based techniques. Offering fully remote therapy sessions to support your mental well-being. Let's embark on a transformative journey towards inner peace and resilience
I am LCSW specializing in healing from trauma, overcoming depression, building self confidence and managing anxiety. I am trained in EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy and utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Mindfulness based techniques. Offering fully remote therapy sessions to support your mental well-being. Let's embark on a transformative journey towards inner peace and resilience
![Photo of Tammy Kling Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2106f197-34a2-43aa-9bb9-44afcc5c1f54/1/320x400.jpeg)
Tammy Kling Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Amherst, NY 14051
I look forward to being there for you to help you with expression and healing through talk therapy or Attachment Focused EMDR and body awareness modalities.
My name is Tammy Kling LCSW, founder of Clear Skies Counseling, walking beside you on your journey to healing. Embrace the journey of healing and growth! The main focus at Clear Skies Counseling is recovery from narcissistic and other types of abuse. I also work with adult adoptees, birth parents and adoptive parents. Often times these issues can cause depression, anxiety and overwhelm! I strive to support you in a judgement free and safe confidential atmosphere. I would be honored to help you on your journey to growth and transformation! Remember, trauma was NOT your fault but the effects can be healed!
I look forward to being there for you to help you with expression and healing through talk therapy or Attachment Focused EMDR and body awareness modalities.
My name is Tammy Kling LCSW, founder of Clear Skies Counseling, walking beside you on your journey to healing. Embrace the journey of healing and growth! The main focus at Clear Skies Counseling is recovery from narcissistic and other types of abuse. I also work with adult adoptees, birth parents and adoptive parents. Often times these issues can cause depression, anxiety and overwhelm! I strive to support you in a judgement free and safe confidential atmosphere. I would be honored to help you on your journey to growth and transformation! Remember, trauma was NOT your fault but the effects can be healed!
See more therapy options for Lockport
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Lockport
- Amherst
- Clarence
- Clarence Center
- East Amherst
- Getzville
- Grand Island
- Kenmore
- Niagara Falls
- North Tonawanda
- Snyder
- Tonawanda
- Williamsville
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.