Therapists in Midtown, New York, NY

Photo of Jenna Hendricksen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jenna Hendricksen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, New York, NY 10019
Hello! My name is Jenna Hendricksen and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New York State. I welcome clients from varied backgrounds and enjoy supporting them in surmounting life transitions, exploring pre-marital therapy, managing trauma, reducing anxiety and depression, and resolving couples issues. My work draws upon several evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emotionally-focused therapy (EFT), mindfulness, and behavioral therapy. I also have several years' experience in supporting individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
Hello! My name is Jenna Hendricksen and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in New York State. I welcome clients from varied backgrounds and enjoy supporting them in surmounting life transitions, exploring pre-marital therapy, managing trauma, reducing anxiety and depression, and resolving couples issues. My work draws upon several evidence-based approaches, including EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), emotionally-focused therapy (EFT), mindfulness, and behavioral therapy. I also have several years' experience in supporting individuals on the autism spectrum and their families.
(347) 835-4083 View (347) 835-4083
Photo of Barry Herbach, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Barry Herbach
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Midtown, New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
I am licensed to practice in both New York and Connecticut and offer a range of services including online EMDR, individual therapy, and couples therapy.
As a licensed psychotherapist with more than 25 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals overcome deep-seated emotional issues that have prevented them from achieving their personal and professional goals. My approach involves using a short-term directive modality that quickly gets to the heart of the problem, allowing my clients to start seeing positive results sooner rather than later.
I am licensed to practice in both New York and Connecticut and offer a range of services including online EMDR, individual therapy, and couples therapy.
As a licensed psychotherapist with more than 25 years of experience, I have helped countless individuals overcome deep-seated emotional issues that have prevented them from achieving their personal and professional goals. My approach involves using a short-term directive modality that quickly gets to the heart of the problem, allowing my clients to start seeing positive results sooner rather than later.
(646) 453-5305 View (646) 453-5305
Photo of Dr. Ashley Curiel, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Ashley Curiel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midtown, New York, NY 10175  (Online Only)
Tired of feeling stuck and frustrated? You deserve to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I can help you accomplish that in numerous ways. While I offer traditional talk therapy, I also offer Somatic Experiencing and EMDR. Both of these modalities utilize an inside-out approach, facilitating healing at a deep, somatic level that endures, rather than trying to convince yourself you are okay when you know you don’t feel it in your body. Plus, you never have to sacrifice one approach for another. We continue to incorporate other modalities, such as psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral interventions, into treatment.
Tired of feeling stuck and frustrated? You deserve to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I can help you accomplish that in numerous ways. While I offer traditional talk therapy, I also offer Somatic Experiencing and EMDR. Both of these modalities utilize an inside-out approach, facilitating healing at a deep, somatic level that endures, rather than trying to convince yourself you are okay when you know you don’t feel it in your body. Plus, you never have to sacrifice one approach for another. We continue to incorporate other modalities, such as psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral interventions, into treatment.
(646) 609-8563 View (646) 609-8563
Photo of Lisa Benjamin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Benjamin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midtown, New York, NY 10019
I also use EMDR as a means to address past and present traumas as well as anxiety and depression.
When starting therapy it's important to choose someone you feel comfortable with and can trust. I like to start by meeting once or twice to see if we are a good match. Together we will address the problem that brings you into therapy and establish a treatment direction designed to meet your goals. My orientation is Psychodynamic and my style is supportive, interactive and collaborative. Successful therapy can either be a short or long term process and I belive that it's important to periodically touch base to make sure that your needs are being met.
I also use EMDR as a means to address past and present traumas as well as anxiety and depression.
When starting therapy it's important to choose someone you feel comfortable with and can trust. I like to start by meeting once or twice to see if we are a good match. Together we will address the problem that brings you into therapy and establish a treatment direction designed to meet your goals. My orientation is Psychodynamic and my style is supportive, interactive and collaborative. Successful therapy can either be a short or long term process and I belive that it's important to periodically touch base to make sure that your needs are being met.
(917) 512-7713 View (917) 512-7713
Photo of Dr. Zach Rawlings, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Zach Rawlings
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
For those seeking treatment for past trauma, I use a treatment called EMDR to help clients heal from traumatic experiences.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in New York City. I primarily work with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, or identity concerns. Many who see me for therapy are experiencing symptoms such as excessive fear, struggles to engage life in ways they desire, or are simply struggling to connect meaningfully with others.
For those seeking treatment for past trauma, I use a treatment called EMDR to help clients heal from traumatic experiences.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist practicing in New York City. I primarily work with individuals suffering from anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, or identity concerns. Many who see me for therapy are experiencing symptoms such as excessive fear, struggles to engage life in ways they desire, or are simply struggling to connect meaningfully with others.
(347) 328-1362 View (347) 328-1362
Photo of Andrea Cilento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea Cilento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown, New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
Creating an empathetic, nonjudgmental and collaborative space for growth and healing is my primary objective as a therapist. Who you are and what you have experienced is unique, and so will be your path to healing. I offer both short-term treatment to focus on a specific issue in your life, or longer-term talk and somatic therapy to delve into deeper issues that impact your relationships or mental and emotional wellbeing. I am both trained in and provide Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapies.
Creating an empathetic, nonjudgmental and collaborative space for growth and healing is my primary objective as a therapist. Who you are and what you have experienced is unique, and so will be your path to healing. I offer both short-term treatment to focus on a specific issue in your life, or longer-term talk and somatic therapy to delve into deeper issues that impact your relationships or mental and emotional wellbeing. I am both trained in and provide Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapies.
(646) 863-6910 View (646) 863-6910
Photo of Kacie Mitterando, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kacie Mitterando
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Midtown, New York, NY 10022  (Online Only)
I also offer EMDR therapy for those interested.
Specialized therapy for all people and couples wanting to improve symptoms of anxiety in relationships. I work with individuals and couples hoping to improve their relationships with their significant other(s), people they’re dating, family members, and friends. If you experience anxiety, and find yourself feeling helpless in the process of being safe and secure in your relationships, there is absolutely help for you that will have you feeling better and more connected to those around you (and yourself) within your first few sessions.
I also offer EMDR therapy for those interested.
Specialized therapy for all people and couples wanting to improve symptoms of anxiety in relationships. I work with individuals and couples hoping to improve their relationships with their significant other(s), people they’re dating, family members, and friends. If you experience anxiety, and find yourself feeling helpless in the process of being safe and secure in your relationships, there is absolutely help for you that will have you feeling better and more connected to those around you (and yourself) within your first few sessions.
(914) 266-9550 View (914) 266-9550
Photo of Antoinette Rodriguez, LMSW, SFTT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antoinette Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, SFTT
Verified Verified
Midtown, New York, NY 10019
I work well with couples who are experiencing difficulties with communication, trust, violence, infidelity, divorce, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Focusing-Oriented therapy. In my work with individual clients, often the focus of therapy is helping with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and identity. I also have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with infertility and fertility treatments.
I work well with couples who are experiencing difficulties with communication, trust, violence, infidelity, divorce, and trauma. I am trained in EMDR and Focusing-Oriented therapy. In my work with individual clients, often the focus of therapy is helping with depression, anxiety, self-esteem, and sexual orientation and identity. I also have experience working with individuals and couples dealing with infertility and fertility treatments.
(646) 480-1874 View (646) 480-1874
Photo of Arthur J. McGrath, LCSW, CST, BCN, MPA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arthur J. McGrath
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, BCN, MPA
Verified Verified
Midtown, New York, NY 10019
My expertise is in the challenges of relationships, work, trauma and EMDR, Neurofeedback and sex therapy and infertility.
Individual and Couple sessions informed by attachment theory, trauma and when needed sex therapy are provided in my Columbus Circle office. I can help with communication, relationship issues, anxiety, depression and attention issues. I am certified in EMDR and Board Certified in Neurofeedback and trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. EMDR and Neurofeedback are 2 of the key treatment therapies recommended in the book; BODY KEEPS THE SCORE by Bessel van der Kolk, MD. Research demonstrates how the brain and our emotional lives interact and how with assistance we can change our lives.
My expertise is in the challenges of relationships, work, trauma and EMDR, Neurofeedback and sex therapy and infertility.
Individual and Couple sessions informed by attachment theory, trauma and when needed sex therapy are provided in my Columbus Circle office. I can help with communication, relationship issues, anxiety, depression and attention issues. I am certified in EMDR and Board Certified in Neurofeedback and trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy. EMDR and Neurofeedback are 2 of the key treatment therapies recommended in the book; BODY KEEPS THE SCORE by Bessel van der Kolk, MD. Research demonstrates how the brain and our emotional lives interact and how with assistance we can change our lives.
(917) 746-5653 View (917) 746-5653
Photo of Rimma Gofman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rimma Gofman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Midtown, New York, NY 10022
Are you experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, or relationship distress? Does life feel overwhelming and challenging right now, and possibly has felt so for many years, or even as long as you can remember? I am an EMDR Certified therapist, and I work with individual clients, couples and family groups.
Are you experiencing stress, depression, anxiety, or relationship distress? Does life feel overwhelming and challenging right now, and possibly has felt so for many years, or even as long as you can remember? I am an EMDR Certified therapist, and I work with individual clients, couples and family groups.
(203) 599-3946 View (203) 599-3946
Photo of Jessica Matthews, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Matthews
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Midtown, New York, NY 10019
Not accepting new clients
I am EMDR Certified and specialize in trauma.
I am passionate about working with adults (18+) that are struggling with painful life experiences. I provide a safe, accepting environment, using evidence-based modalities for change, and support my clients in the process of healing and becoming the best versions of themselves. My clients are resilient- however, having to be "strong" and in survival mode all the time is exhausting, and it's okay to let your guard down with me. I aim to support my clients in not only surviving, but thriving. My clients ultimately achieve a healthier relationship with themselves, others, and the world around them.
I am EMDR Certified and specialize in trauma.
I am passionate about working with adults (18+) that are struggling with painful life experiences. I provide a safe, accepting environment, using evidence-based modalities for change, and support my clients in the process of healing and becoming the best versions of themselves. My clients are resilient- however, having to be "strong" and in survival mode all the time is exhausting, and it's okay to let your guard down with me. I aim to support my clients in not only surviving, but thriving. My clients ultimately achieve a healthier relationship with themselves, others, and the world around them.
(347) 695-8676 View (347) 695-8676
Photo of Michael Moran, LCSW, CST, CCAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Moran
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CST, CCAT
Verified Verified
Midtown, New York, NY 10019
I also have specialized training in helping couples recover from infidelity and addiction & have advanced training in EMDR (a powerful modality in releasing trauma from the nervous system), Sorenson Method For Self-esteem & hold a Certification in Creative Arts Therapy.
My passion, training & expertise is directly focused on helping people create engaging, deeply satisfying relationships. I'm both a Certified Emotionally Focused (EFT) Couples Therapist and Supervisor as well as an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist. If you are in a relationship fraught with conflict or that is emotionally-barren & unrewarding, or experiencing sexual problems, or perhaps you are single and looking to create a fulfilling relationship, we can schedule a phone or video conf. consult at no charge to discuss your situation further -- visit my website www.fulfilledcouples.com to learn more about my philosophy and training.
I also have specialized training in helping couples recover from infidelity and addiction & have advanced training in EMDR (a powerful modality in releasing trauma from the nervous system), Sorenson Method For Self-esteem & hold a Certification in Creative Arts Therapy.
My passion, training & expertise is directly focused on helping people create engaging, deeply satisfying relationships. I'm both a Certified Emotionally Focused (EFT) Couples Therapist and Supervisor as well as an AASECT Certified Sex Therapist. If you are in a relationship fraught with conflict or that is emotionally-barren & unrewarding, or experiencing sexual problems, or perhaps you are single and looking to create a fulfilling relationship, we can schedule a phone or video conf. consult at no charge to discuss your situation further -- visit my website www.fulfilledcouples.com to learn more about my philosophy and training.
(646) 298-5227 View (646) 298-5227
Photo of Katerina Stratigis, PsyD, Psychologist
Katerina Stratigis
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Midtown, New York, NY 10175
Thrive Psychology is the premier therapy & counseling center dedicated to women’s wellness. We empower clients to overcome life’s toughest challenges and reach their highest potential. Thrive has helped thousands of clients live their best lives through a growing network of in-person and online services. Thrive therapists are the top of their field and use only the most advanced evidence based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled, reach out to us and let us help you THRIVE.
Thrive Psychology is the premier therapy & counseling center dedicated to women’s wellness. We empower clients to overcome life’s toughest challenges and reach their highest potential. Thrive has helped thousands of clients live their best lives through a growing network of in-person and online services. Thrive therapists are the top of their field and use only the most advanced evidence based treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Mindfulness Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy. If you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or unfulfilled, reach out to us and let us help you THRIVE.
(929) 209-3481 View (929) 209-3481
Photo of Leon Silvers, LMHC, Counselor
Leon Silvers
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, New York, NY 10017
Some of the methods I use include Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Psychedelic Therapy, Somatic Therapy, EMDR, Drama Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
I work with individuals of all gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, gender, sexuality, and relationships. I am a life-long learner in the field of psychology and have learned, and continue to learn many different therapeutic modalities, so my approach is eclectic and tailored to the unique needs and wants of each individual. I have also been in my own therapy for each of the modalities I practice.
Some of the methods I use include Psychodynamic Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, Psychedelic Therapy, Somatic Therapy, EMDR, Drama Therapy, and mindfulness-based approaches.
I work with individuals of all gender, race, ethnicity, religion, and sexual orientation. I work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, gender, sexuality, and relationships. I am a life-long learner in the field of psychology and have learned, and continue to learn many different therapeutic modalities, so my approach is eclectic and tailored to the unique needs and wants of each individual. I have also been in my own therapy for each of the modalities I practice.
(917) 746-7129 View (917) 746-7129
Photo of Adriana Agdamus, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adriana Agdamus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midtown, New York, NY 10019  (Online Only)
In addition to more traditional approaches, I include alternative modalities such as EMDR, hypnosis, mindfulness based stress reduction, energy psychology (tapping), and past life regressions (trained with Brian Weiss.
As I work with individuals, couples and families, my goal is to create an interactive, supportive, yet challenging environment focusing on how to get to the heart of the matter quickly and safely. I specialize in a wide range of issues including -but not limited to- depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, family conflicts and trauma.
In addition to more traditional approaches, I include alternative modalities such as EMDR, hypnosis, mindfulness based stress reduction, energy psychology (tapping), and past life regressions (trained with Brian Weiss.
As I work with individuals, couples and families, my goal is to create an interactive, supportive, yet challenging environment focusing on how to get to the heart of the matter quickly and safely. I specialize in a wide range of issues including -but not limited to- depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, family conflicts and trauma.
(646) 553-4049 View (646) 553-4049
Photo of Ryan Savolskis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan Savolskis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, New York, NY 10019
I am a trauma informed therapist trained in EMDR.
I believe we're all looking for the same thing: to be heard and understood. My approach is rooted in relational therapy, emphasizing the development of the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for healing. I advocate for a focus on the human experience over pathologizing mental health and understand that cultural differences, societal pressures, and life's inherent chaos impact our mental well-being in profound ways. While I do have a clinical side and apply therapeutic modalities, my priority isn’t stamping a diagnosis on you and calling it a day; it’s all about truly standing by the power of the therapy bond.
I am a trauma informed therapist trained in EMDR.
I believe we're all looking for the same thing: to be heard and understood. My approach is rooted in relational therapy, emphasizing the development of the therapeutic relationship as a foundation for healing. I advocate for a focus on the human experience over pathologizing mental health and understand that cultural differences, societal pressures, and life's inherent chaos impact our mental well-being in profound ways. While I do have a clinical side and apply therapeutic modalities, my priority isn’t stamping a diagnosis on you and calling it a day; it’s all about truly standing by the power of the therapy bond.
(646) 906-8896 View (646) 906-8896
Photo of Kelly Meany, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly Meany
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Midtown, New York, NY 10019
Everyone has a story to tell and sometimes the bravest thing a person can do is share their story. When your story is holding you back from becoming the greatest version of yourself then it’s time to work through any negative messages you may have been telling yourself. I believe we all have the tools we need to accomplish our goals and sometimes we need a different perspective. I am licensed in both Connecticut and New York. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and DBT. I can also provide coaching services upon request.
Everyone has a story to tell and sometimes the bravest thing a person can do is share their story. When your story is holding you back from becoming the greatest version of yourself then it’s time to work through any negative messages you may have been telling yourself. I believe we all have the tools we need to accomplish our goals and sometimes we need a different perspective. I am licensed in both Connecticut and New York. I specialize in cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and DBT. I can also provide coaching services upon request.
(914) 354-3502 View (914) 354-3502
Photo of Patricia Galiotos, PsyD, Psychologist
Patricia Galiotos
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Midtown, New York, NY 10022
Not accepting new clients
In talk therapy I use a primarily cognitive-behavioral approach, bringing attention to the cycle of thoughts, feelings, and actions that are connected to our overall state of well-being. Working on that cycle can reduce anxiety, depression, and anger, and lead to more positive regard for ourselves and stronger relationships with the people in our lives. I also am certified to integrate mind-body awareness and healing with EMDR, a therapy that helps resolve intense feelings about painful past experiences, and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a music program that helps regulate the nervous system and improve related symptoms.
In talk therapy I use a primarily cognitive-behavioral approach, bringing attention to the cycle of thoughts, feelings, and actions that are connected to our overall state of well-being. Working on that cycle can reduce anxiety, depression, and anger, and lead to more positive regard for ourselves and stronger relationships with the people in our lives. I also am certified to integrate mind-body awareness and healing with EMDR, a therapy that helps resolve intense feelings about painful past experiences, and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), a music program that helps regulate the nervous system and improve related symptoms.
(973) 988-1543 View (973) 988-1543
Photo of Suzanne Schuster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Schuster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Midtown, New York, NY 10022
After receiving my graduate degree from the Silberman School of CUNY, I pursued intensive training at the institute for Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral treatments and EMDR.
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. I can help your child explore their feelings, make sense of their experience, and develop their full potential. I can help your child become their own therapist by learning techniques and coping strategies to learn how to deal with their challenges in their lives. I work well with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, social issues, learning issues, attention deficit disorder, and body image issues. Clients often see improved well-being early on in therapy.
After receiving my graduate degree from the Silberman School of CUNY, I pursued intensive training at the institute for Psychoanalysis and Psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral treatments and EMDR.
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? I offer a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. I can help your child explore their feelings, make sense of their experience, and develop their full potential. I can help your child become their own therapist by learning techniques and coping strategies to learn how to deal with their challenges in their lives. I work well with children and adolescents struggling with anxiety, depression, social issues, learning issues, attention deficit disorder, and body image issues. Clients often see improved well-being early on in therapy.
(347) 252-8296 View (347) 252-8296
Photo of Dr. Thomas Whitfield, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Dr. Thomas Whitfield
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Midtown, New York, NY 10019
Curious about CBT, EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, and online therapy? Click "website" to quickly set up a free 30-minute phone consultation. I view therapy as a collaborative experience aimed at helping patients become the best version of themselves. I love working with patients who are motivated to make change and excited to learn more about who they are and how they navigate the world. I have a plethora of experience working with individuals and couples who have mood disorders, anxiety related disorders, complex physical and sexual abuse traumas, and those who have difficulty adjusting to life changes.
Curious about CBT, EMDR, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, and online therapy? Click "website" to quickly set up a free 30-minute phone consultation. I view therapy as a collaborative experience aimed at helping patients become the best version of themselves. I love working with patients who are motivated to make change and excited to learn more about who they are and how they navigate the world. I have a plethora of experience working with individuals and couples who have mood disorders, anxiety related disorders, complex physical and sexual abuse traumas, and those who have difficulty adjusting to life changes.
(914) 228-4134 View (914) 228-4134
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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.