EMDR Therapists in New Hyde Park, NY

Photo of Victoria Anderson - VRA Mental Health Counseling PLLC, MSEd, LMHC, CASAC
VRA Mental Health Counseling PLLC
Mental Health Counselor, MSEd, LMHC, CASAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
With a background in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, EMDR, and Person-Centered Psychotherapy, I aim to assist clients in discovering their motivation for counseling, to identify and work on challenges they may face, and in developing skills in which they can use to improve emotional regulation and relationships with others.
I work with individuals coping with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, stress management, phase of life changes, and more. I believe that all individuals, with the right tools, can grow to become more self-aware and make decisions that support continued wellness.
With a background in Motivational Interviewing, CBT, EMDR, and Person-Centered Psychotherapy, I aim to assist clients in discovering their motivation for counseling, to identify and work on challenges they may face, and in developing skills in which they can use to improve emotional regulation and relationships with others.
I work with individuals coping with various concerns such as depression, anxiety, addiction, trauma, stress management, phase of life changes, and more. I believe that all individuals, with the right tools, can grow to become more self-aware and make decisions that support continued wellness.
(516) 210-0652 View (516) 210-0652
Photo of Chi-Kit Ho, MSW,  LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chi-Kit Ho
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11042
Kit Ho, LCSW, has been providing expert therapy services to both adolescents and adults dealing with a range of mental health issues for over two decades. His work focuses on helping clients manage conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Kit's approach is tailored to address the specific needs of each client, offering individual and family therapy to foster healing and growth. Kit's particular passion lies in trauma-focused therapy. He employs a variety of advanced techniques, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and bio-feedback, to help clients overcome the effects of acute.
Kit Ho, LCSW, has been providing expert therapy services to both adolescents and adults dealing with a range of mental health issues for over two decades. His work focuses on helping clients manage conditions such as bipolar disorder, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Kit's approach is tailored to address the specific needs of each client, offering individual and family therapy to foster healing and growth. Kit's particular passion lies in trauma-focused therapy. He employs a variety of advanced techniques, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and bio-feedback, to help clients overcome the effects of acute.
(855) 688-1397 View (855) 688-1397
Photo of Menahal Begawala - Haven Mental Health Counseling, LMHC
Haven Mental Health Counseling
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hyde Park, NY 11042
Our specialties include EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and use of the Gottman Method for couples.
Are you struggling with feelings of sadness or depression due to trauma or difficult life experiences? Perhaps you are dealing with overwhelming anxiety or difficulty in connecting in with your significant other? The core of treatment at Haven Counseling lies in the belief that happiness, resilience, and mental strength are within reach for every one of us. We work with clients to explore the roadblocks in reaching their goals: emotional, relational, vocational or otherwise. We offer services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families to overcome challenges related to mental health concerns, relationships, and trauma.
Our specialties include EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and use of the Gottman Method for couples.
Are you struggling with feelings of sadness or depression due to trauma or difficult life experiences? Perhaps you are dealing with overwhelming anxiety or difficulty in connecting in with your significant other? The core of treatment at Haven Counseling lies in the belief that happiness, resilience, and mental strength are within reach for every one of us. We work with clients to explore the roadblocks in reaching their goals: emotional, relational, vocational or otherwise. We offer services for children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families to overcome challenges related to mental health concerns, relationships, and trauma.
(646) 859-1250 View (646) 859-1250
Photo of Joyce Braun, LCSWR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce Braun
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
I use a variety of techniques including CBT, EMDR, EFT & Mindfulness.
Do you feel as though your life is not where you want it to be? Are you worried about your relationship, children, career or health? Perhaps you feel self-doubt and anxiety are hijacking your life and you're not sure how to get back on track. I'm an experienced psychotherapist who can help guide you toward the change you are looking for. My goal is to provide a comfortable, safe, supportive place for you to explore your feelings and change the negative thoughts or habits that got you here. You will discover new ways to achieve a meaningful life that you enjoy.
I use a variety of techniques including CBT, EMDR, EFT & Mindfulness.
Do you feel as though your life is not where you want it to be? Are you worried about your relationship, children, career or health? Perhaps you feel self-doubt and anxiety are hijacking your life and you're not sure how to get back on track. I'm an experienced psychotherapist who can help guide you toward the change you are looking for. My goal is to provide a comfortable, safe, supportive place for you to explore your feelings and change the negative thoughts or habits that got you here. You will discover new ways to achieve a meaningful life that you enjoy.
(516) 260-4286 View (516) 260-4286
Photo of Deborah S Cohen, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah S Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
I am trained in EMDR which can help facilitate rapid resolution of certain issues.
If you are reading this page, you are probably in some kind of crisis or difficulty you have not been able to sort out by yourself. Although this can be uncomfortable, it also provides great possibilities for change. As a trained therapist with over 30 years of experience, I have a broad array of experiences and tools to help you effect the changes you want to make in a way that is gentle and respectful. Although it may seem impossible, individual change, changing a troubled relationship or getting your family back on track are all within reach.
I am trained in EMDR which can help facilitate rapid resolution of certain issues.
If you are reading this page, you are probably in some kind of crisis or difficulty you have not been able to sort out by yourself. Although this can be uncomfortable, it also provides great possibilities for change. As a trained therapist with over 30 years of experience, I have a broad array of experiences and tools to help you effect the changes you want to make in a way that is gentle and respectful. Although it may seem impossible, individual change, changing a troubled relationship or getting your family back on track are all within reach.
(917) 746-7839 View (917) 746-7839
Photo of Zarna Shah, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zarna Shah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
My treatment modality is EMDR, CBT, psychodynamic and insight oriented with an emphasis on diagnosing, evaluation, management and treatment to help individuals function optimally outside the therapeutic environment.
Are you having trouble coping with situations, people, and/or relationships? Do you find yourself on edge and easily irritated? Do you simply feel at a loss for direction? Have your symptoms worsened in the past few weeks? There are many reasons for the way you feel; exploring the source of your distress and finding a solution that works for you is the key to success in therapy. I can help you find your way in a safe, private and caring environment. I am an experienced clinician with the utmost dedication to my clients during their most difficult times. If you're serious about improving your mental well-being and want to have
My treatment modality is EMDR, CBT, psychodynamic and insight oriented with an emphasis on diagnosing, evaluation, management and treatment to help individuals function optimally outside the therapeutic environment.
Are you having trouble coping with situations, people, and/or relationships? Do you find yourself on edge and easily irritated? Do you simply feel at a loss for direction? Have your symptoms worsened in the past few weeks? There are many reasons for the way you feel; exploring the source of your distress and finding a solution that works for you is the key to success in therapy. I can help you find your way in a safe, private and caring environment. I am an experienced clinician with the utmost dedication to my clients during their most difficult times. If you're serious about improving your mental well-being and want to have
(516) 693-2003 View (516) 693-2003
Photo of Debra Machado, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Machado
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Being trained in EMDR enables me to bring help to those suffering Post Traumatic Stress Disorder caused by sudden trauma or by chronic trauma i.
I am a pro-active therapist in private practice over 35 years. I believe helping clients understand their problems through education and knowledge of the issues enhances the clients ablity to make informed, decisions about what to do regarding the issues they are struggling with. Whether it's helping clients change their faulty beliefs about themselves and teach them skills to attain their goals, or helping a marriage survive the chronic stress of living with a child diagnosed with a chronic physical or mental disorder, I am there to support and encourage my clients to reach their goals and "See the forest for the trees!"
Being trained in EMDR enables me to bring help to those suffering Post Traumatic Stress Disorder caused by sudden trauma or by chronic trauma i.
I am a pro-active therapist in private practice over 35 years. I believe helping clients understand their problems through education and knowledge of the issues enhances the clients ablity to make informed, decisions about what to do regarding the issues they are struggling with. Whether it's helping clients change their faulty beliefs about themselves and teach them skills to attain their goals, or helping a marriage survive the chronic stress of living with a child diagnosed with a chronic physical or mental disorder, I am there to support and encourage my clients to reach their goals and "See the forest for the trees!"
(516) 256-9909 View (516) 256-9909
Photo of Angela A Hatzis, LCSW-R, CASAC, EMDR, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela A Hatzis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CASAC, EMDR, CCTP
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
EMDR Specialist, for treatment of PTSD, phobias, and some affective disorders.
I am a therapist that strongly believes that "there is always hope for a better tomorrow". I am an experienced therapist specializing in issues of depression,phobias,PTSD,anxiety,panic attacks, ADHD, ADD, eating disorders and obsessions.I work particularly well with couple/marital issues,family issues and drug addiction.
EMDR Specialist, for treatment of PTSD, phobias, and some affective disorders.
I am a therapist that strongly believes that "there is always hope for a better tomorrow". I am an experienced therapist specializing in issues of depression,phobias,PTSD,anxiety,panic attacks, ADHD, ADD, eating disorders and obsessions.I work particularly well with couple/marital issues,family issues and drug addiction.
(718) 701-8498 View (718) 701-8498
Photo of Renee Maggiore, LMHC, Counselor
Renee Maggiore
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the purpose of helping people as they navigate through life’s many ups and downs. I am passionate about helping clients increase their self-awareness and recognize their inner strengths. I aim to provide a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to feel supported and validated. I utilize a client-centered approach to therapy, tailored to suit the needs of my client. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strength-Based Therapy.
I became a Licensed Mental Health Counselor with the purpose of helping people as they navigate through life’s many ups and downs. I am passionate about helping clients increase their self-awareness and recognize their inner strengths. I aim to provide a non-judgmental, safe space for clients to feel supported and validated. I utilize a client-centered approach to therapy, tailored to suit the needs of my client. I use an eclectic therapeutic approach including EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Strength-Based Therapy.
(516) 260-4839 View (516) 260-4839
Photo of Helayne Malamood, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Helayne Malamood
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Therapy can be challenging yet it can lead to positive , life enriching insights and behavior changes. Specializing in working with children, adolescents and young adults. I will help you deal with anixety, sadness, boredom or any issues affecting everyday living.Individual, family and group sessions available. All ages welcome.
Therapy can be challenging yet it can lead to positive , life enriching insights and behavior changes. Specializing in working with children, adolescents and young adults. I will help you deal with anixety, sadness, boredom or any issues affecting everyday living.Individual, family and group sessions available. All ages welcome.
(516) 336-9980 View (516) 336-9980
Photo of Tiffani Smith, LMHC, Counselor
Tiffani Smith
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Each of us have a unique story that reflects our life experiences and helps to shape our perspective of the world around us and how we view ourselves. Therapy is an opportunity to explore and understand your life story, heal from painful emotions, identify and build upon your strengths, and create lasting change to improve your overall sense of well-being. As your therapist, I aim to foster a warm, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment where you feel safe to engage in self-exploration and reach your goals.
Each of us have a unique story that reflects our life experiences and helps to shape our perspective of the world around us and how we view ourselves. Therapy is an opportunity to explore and understand your life story, heal from painful emotions, identify and build upon your strengths, and create lasting change to improve your overall sense of well-being. As your therapist, I aim to foster a warm, supportive, and collaborative therapeutic environment where you feel safe to engage in self-exploration and reach your goals.
(516) 614-3568 View (516) 614-3568
Photo of Timothy Cai, LMHC, Counselor
Timothy Cai
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Sometimes it can be hard to talk about what you’re thinking or feeling. You might believe that if you did talk about it, people may judge or reject you. It is my mission to make you feel heard and validated in the hopes that when you do feel more comfortable, you just might find those difficult thoughts and feelings easier to manage. My treatment approach is person-centered, to empower you to understand that your experience of yourself and the world around you matters. I also incorporate psychodynamic, to explore and understand how you came to be who you are today. We will collaborate to to help you live the life you want to live.
Sometimes it can be hard to talk about what you’re thinking or feeling. You might believe that if you did talk about it, people may judge or reject you. It is my mission to make you feel heard and validated in the hopes that when you do feel more comfortable, you just might find those difficult thoughts and feelings easier to manage. My treatment approach is person-centered, to empower you to understand that your experience of yourself and the world around you matters. I also incorporate psychodynamic, to explore and understand how you came to be who you are today. We will collaborate to to help you live the life you want to live.
(516) 447-3956 View (516) 447-3956
Photo of Rosemary Marrugo, LMHC, Counselor
Rosemary Marrugo
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Over the course of your life, you may experience a change in your thinking, mood, or feeling, and behavior could be affected. It helps that we determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. Together we will work through those struggles to live a happier and healthier life. As a therapist, with several years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and those who suffer a severe mental health illness, I am well versed in several counseling techniques and have a compassionate approachable demeanor.
Over the course of your life, you may experience a change in your thinking, mood, or feeling, and behavior could be affected. It helps that we determine how we handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. Mental health is important at every stage of life, from childhood and adolescence through adulthood. Together we will work through those struggles to live a happier and healthier life. As a therapist, with several years of experience working with adolescents, adults, and those who suffer a severe mental health illness, I am well versed in several counseling techniques and have a compassionate approachable demeanor.
(516) 550-0559 View (516) 550-0559
Photo of Alexandra Bermudez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Bermudez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
New Hyde Park, NY 11042
Are you struggling with your emotions and feeling stuck? Do you tend to get overwhelmed by your thoughts and are unsure about how to move forward? We all go through life experiences that can impact our present day. These challenges tend to shape the way that we view the world and ourselves. When you choose to begin this journey, we can take a deeper look at unhealthy relationships, negative self-judgments, and unresolved experiences. I often see those experiencing anxiety, challenging family dynamics, depression, perfectionism, and complex trauma.
Are you struggling with your emotions and feeling stuck? Do you tend to get overwhelmed by your thoughts and are unsure about how to move forward? We all go through life experiences that can impact our present day. These challenges tend to shape the way that we view the world and ourselves. When you choose to begin this journey, we can take a deeper look at unhealthy relationships, negative self-judgments, and unresolved experiences. I often see those experiencing anxiety, challenging family dynamics, depression, perfectionism, and complex trauma.
(646) 906-9403 View (646) 906-9403
Photo of Cathy Menzies, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cathy Menzies
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
New Hyde Park, NY 11040
Not accepting new clients
Hello and Welcome. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Trauma therapist who is passionate about helping others to improve their personal lives and relationships. My private therapy practice that specializes in treating the helpers, First Responders, Healthcare Providers, Educators and their families. Our staff are passionate. Together we can work to create the changes you desire. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe professional, nurturing environment where together we can assist you to live the life you desire.
Hello and Welcome. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Certified EMDR Trauma therapist who is passionate about helping others to improve their personal lives and relationships. My private therapy practice that specializes in treating the helpers, First Responders, Healthcare Providers, Educators and their families. Our staff are passionate. Together we can work to create the changes you desire. My approach to therapy is to provide a safe professional, nurturing environment where together we can assist you to live the life you desire.
(631) 489-8073 View (631) 489-8073

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Alyssa DiPadova, MS, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alyssa DiPadova
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Floral Park, NY 11001  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
With a foundation rooted in evidence-based practices, including Person-Centered Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions, body sensations, thoughts, and behaviors.
Do you feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or constant worry? Are you struggling to make important life decisions? Do you want to build resilience and improve your coping skills? You have the potential to make strides toward positive change, and receiving support along that journey can go a long way in reaching your goals.
With a foundation rooted in evidence-based practices, including Person-Centered Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I am committed to providing a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions, body sensations, thoughts, and behaviors.
Do you feel overwhelmed by stress, anxiety, or constant worry? Are you struggling to make important life decisions? Do you want to build resilience and improve your coping skills? You have the potential to make strides toward positive change, and receiving support along that journey can go a long way in reaching your goals.
(718) 550-7891 View (718) 550-7891
Photo of Gabrielle Masih, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabrielle Masih
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530  (Online Only)
To support your healing, I use a blend of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
I'm here to walk alongside you as you create a life where you can truly thrive, leaving survival mode behind. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or identity struggles, we’ll work together to find the clarity and healing you deserve. I’m passionate about supporting those navigating trauma, grief, major life transitions, or the complexities of family dynamics. Together, we'll make sense of what feels overwhelming and uncover a path forward. My practice is all about helping you grow, heal, and reconnect with yourself, especially during life’s most challenging moments.
To support your healing, I use a blend of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and mindfulness techniques.
I'm here to walk alongside you as you create a life where you can truly thrive, leaving survival mode behind. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, depression, or identity struggles, we’ll work together to find the clarity and healing you deserve. I’m passionate about supporting those navigating trauma, grief, major life transitions, or the complexities of family dynamics. Together, we'll make sense of what feels overwhelming and uncover a path forward. My practice is all about helping you grow, heal, and reconnect with yourself, especially during life’s most challenging moments.
(516) 452-8909 View (516) 452-8909
Photo of Nicole L Coogan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole L Coogan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Garden City, NY 11530
Inspiring Wellness provides a safe, nurturing environment for those seeking a way to reduce stress through therapy. We have therapists on staff including Clinical Social Workers, EMDR Therapists and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists who can help you meet your personal wellness goals. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction are incorporated into all sessions with our clients. Our therapists specialize in Individual and Family Therapy and use psycho-education designed to improve coping skill and interpersonal skills in order to help better manage symptoms of anxiety, depression and mood liability.
Inspiring Wellness provides a safe, nurturing environment for those seeking a way to reduce stress through therapy. We have therapists on staff including Clinical Social Workers, EMDR Therapists and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists who can help you meet your personal wellness goals. Mindfulness and Stress Reduction are incorporated into all sessions with our clients. Our therapists specialize in Individual and Family Therapy and use psycho-education designed to improve coping skill and interpersonal skills in order to help better manage symptoms of anxiety, depression and mood liability.
(631) 496-1808 View (631) 496-1808
Photo of Lindsay Rojas, LCSW, AASW, EMDR CT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Rojas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, AASW, EMDR CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530
As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I work with patients to revisit painful experiences in a safe, healing and transformative way.
Feeling like life is a bit too much right now? Like no matter what you do, it will never get any better? You're not alone. I know how overwhelming things can get, and it can feel like you're carrying the weight of the world. That’s where I come in. I offer a space where you can breathe, vent, and feel genuinely understood. I believe that growth happens best when we feel connected, so I strive to create a space that feels open, compassionate, and free of judgment.
As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I work with patients to revisit painful experiences in a safe, healing and transformative way.
Feeling like life is a bit too much right now? Like no matter what you do, it will never get any better? You're not alone. I know how overwhelming things can get, and it can feel like you're carrying the weight of the world. That’s where I come in. I offer a space where you can breathe, vent, and feel genuinely understood. I believe that growth happens best when we feel connected, so I strive to create a space that feels open, compassionate, and free of judgment.
(516) 646-3253 View (516) 646-3253
Photo of Anna Dec, LMHC, CASAC2, EMDR, Counselor
Anna Dec
Counselor, LMHC, CASAC2, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Garden City, NY 11530  (Online Only)
I specialize in Anxiety, Panic Disorders, PTSD, trauma-focused therapy, EMDR.
Life can be stressful, challenging, and overwhelming at times. You may feel sad, depressed, anxious, and worried. Coping with these uncomfortable feelings and emotions can often be difficult. "All the world is full of suffering; it is also full of overcoming," said an American author Helen Keller. I strongly believe that you have the strength within yourself to overcome any obstacles that life brings with my therapeutic assistance and guidance. I will create a safe, warm, and empathetic environment to enhance progress toward your goals, support personal growth, and encourage positive change.
I specialize in Anxiety, Panic Disorders, PTSD, trauma-focused therapy, EMDR.
Life can be stressful, challenging, and overwhelming at times. You may feel sad, depressed, anxious, and worried. Coping with these uncomfortable feelings and emotions can often be difficult. "All the world is full of suffering; it is also full of overcoming," said an American author Helen Keller. I strongly believe that you have the strength within yourself to overcome any obstacles that life brings with my therapeutic assistance and guidance. I will create a safe, warm, and empathetic environment to enhance progress toward your goals, support personal growth, and encourage positive change.
(516) 856-1340 View (516) 856-1340

See more therapy options for New Hyde Park

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.