EMDR Therapists in Pleasantville, NY

Photo of Mary Murphy Crowe, LCSWR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Murphy Crowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWR
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I'm also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) a technique utilized to address trauma and anxiety.
Are you exhausted by having the same struggles with your child or spouse day after day with no relief in sight? We often repeat similar patterns from our family of origin or conversely do the opposite. Either way we are stuck in a preordained negative cycle that we can not navigate alone. I have twenty five years of experience and training helping families change their communication patterns n a short term systemic model. These behaviors can actually perpetuate the very problems you are trying to solve!
I'm also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) a technique utilized to address trauma and anxiety.
Are you exhausted by having the same struggles with your child or spouse day after day with no relief in sight? We often repeat similar patterns from our family of origin or conversely do the opposite. Either way we are stuck in a preordained negative cycle that we can not navigate alone. I have twenty five years of experience and training helping families change their communication patterns n a short term systemic model. These behaviors can actually perpetuate the very problems you are trying to solve!
(914) 709-4927 View (914) 709-4927
Photo of Andrea D Gordon, MA, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea D Gordon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Waitlist for new clients
I use EMDR for trauma.
I have over 40 years experience treating individuals, couples and groups. My techniques vary according to the needs of my clients. I offer brief treatment with focus on a specific issue; long term psychodynamic psychotherapy for greater self understanding;and EMDR for traumas. I’ve worked supportively with hundreds of clients in troubled relationships whether they decide to work through the issues with the partner or separate and begin a new phase of life. Teaching mindfulness techniques I help clients learn to pause, and change negative reacting. My Cd: Journey to Inner Peace: Meditation and relaxation exercises has sold over 400.
I use EMDR for trauma.
I have over 40 years experience treating individuals, couples and groups. My techniques vary according to the needs of my clients. I offer brief treatment with focus on a specific issue; long term psychodynamic psychotherapy for greater self understanding;and EMDR for traumas. I’ve worked supportively with hundreds of clients in troubled relationships whether they decide to work through the issues with the partner or separate and begin a new phase of life. Teaching mindfulness techniques I help clients learn to pause, and change negative reacting. My Cd: Journey to Inner Peace: Meditation and relaxation exercises has sold over 400.
(914) 202-3615 View (914) 202-3615
Photo of Phyllis Kosminsky, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phyllis Kosminsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am trained in multiple clinical modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR.
I have been working with people faced with significant loss for the past thirty years. People often ask me if this work is depressing - I always say that the stories I hear are not only stories of loss - they are love stories. We grieve becaue we love. Sometimes that love is complicated, and so the grief is complicated. Sometimes the loss changes us in ways that we feel are unbearable and unsustainable. My work is about helping you move from a state of deep pain and preoccupation with loss to a place where you can reengage with life.
I am trained in multiple clinical modalities, including cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR.
I have been working with people faced with significant loss for the past thirty years. People often ask me if this work is depressing - I always say that the stories I hear are not only stories of loss - they are love stories. We grieve becaue we love. Sometimes that love is complicated, and so the grief is complicated. Sometimes the loss changes us in ways that we feel are unbearable and unsustainable. My work is about helping you move from a state of deep pain and preoccupation with loss to a place where you can reengage with life.
(914) 595-2846 View (914) 595-2846
Photo of Rachel Winckel, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Winckel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
As a trauma therapist, including therapy for sexual abuse and postpartum depression, I use EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to find the root cause of your pain.
You’re not living the life you want. You’re unhappy, but you’re unsure why. At times, we can feel lost, numb, and disconnected from ourselves. There can be many reasons for this and through our work together, we will understand what these are and how to reconnect, to live a vibrant life. It’s been my experience that trauma lives in the body, as well as the mind. When we treat only the thoughts or the pictures in our heads, the deepest part of what is hurt isn't heard. Perhaps, no matter how many times you've talked about past trauma, it still feels raw. Something just isn’t healing. You feel stuck despite trying everything to help.
As a trauma therapist, including therapy for sexual abuse and postpartum depression, I use EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to find the root cause of your pain.
You’re not living the life you want. You’re unhappy, but you’re unsure why. At times, we can feel lost, numb, and disconnected from ourselves. There can be many reasons for this and through our work together, we will understand what these are and how to reconnect, to live a vibrant life. It’s been my experience that trauma lives in the body, as well as the mind. When we treat only the thoughts or the pictures in our heads, the deepest part of what is hurt isn't heard. Perhaps, no matter how many times you've talked about past trauma, it still feels raw. Something just isn’t healing. You feel stuck despite trying everything to help.
(914) 745-6970 View (914) 745-6970
Photo of Janet-Michelle Cuevas - Janet-Michelle Cuevas, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet-Michelle Cuevas, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, and other modalities that have been identified as best practice in working with those who have experienced trauma.
Have you experienced the death or loss of a family member or close friend? Have you experienced crime, such as sexual assault or sexual abuse as a child? Have you been harmed by parents, siblings, friends, people in authority, acquaintances and/or strangers? Crime, harm and loss can be traumatic and life-altering. It can feel like there is nowhere safe and no one to turn to or trust. My approach is client-centered, non-judgmental, gentle and nurturing. During our work together you will explore and discover inner strengths and resources that will help you heal and feel empowered.
I utilize EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, and other modalities that have been identified as best practice in working with those who have experienced trauma.
Have you experienced the death or loss of a family member or close friend? Have you experienced crime, such as sexual assault or sexual abuse as a child? Have you been harmed by parents, siblings, friends, people in authority, acquaintances and/or strangers? Crime, harm and loss can be traumatic and life-altering. It can feel like there is nowhere safe and no one to turn to or trust. My approach is client-centered, non-judgmental, gentle and nurturing. During our work together you will explore and discover inner strengths and resources that will help you heal and feel empowered.
(917) 765-7503 View (917) 765-7503
Photo of Deirdre A Cole, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deirdre A Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am trained and experienced in EMDR, somatic therapy, ego state therapy, buddhist-informed psychotherapy, psychodynamic therapy, direct inquiry, animal assisted therapy and other modalities to provide you the best possible care through a treatment approach tailored to you within a safe, respectful, supportive and collaborative healing environment.
When you need help, where do you look? How do you determine which kind of therapy and which kind of therapist would suit you? These are important questions. There is no one-size-fits-all. The foundation of my work is mindfulness-based, meditation-based, strengths-based, and informed by the current neuroscientic research. If you find yourself facing a significant life transition, a death or loss, anxiety or depression; if you are struggling with past trauma, PTSD, or dissociation, or if you find yourself at a spiritual crossroads, or have a desire to deepen your relationship with yourself, this approach might help.
I am trained and experienced in EMDR, somatic therapy, ego state therapy, buddhist-informed psychotherapy, psychodynamic therapy, direct inquiry, animal assisted therapy and other modalities to provide you the best possible care through a treatment approach tailored to you within a safe, respectful, supportive and collaborative healing environment.
When you need help, where do you look? How do you determine which kind of therapy and which kind of therapist would suit you? These are important questions. There is no one-size-fits-all. The foundation of my work is mindfulness-based, meditation-based, strengths-based, and informed by the current neuroscientic research. If you find yourself facing a significant life transition, a death or loss, anxiety or depression; if you are struggling with past trauma, PTSD, or dissociation, or if you find yourself at a spiritual crossroads, or have a desire to deepen your relationship with yourself, this approach might help.
(914) 361-9975 View (914) 361-9975
Photo of Tova Horowicz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tova Horowicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am extensively trained in the use of Sand Tray, EMDR, DBT and CBT, and continue to investigate and learn new therapeutic modalities to help you reach your full potential.
Life isn’t always easy! Sometimes, even the strongest amongst us need help to work through life’s challenges. In today's complicated world, we all struggle with a multitude of stressors. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I can help! I am passionate about encouraging my clients to focus on post traumatic growth within an empathic, validating and supportive clinical relationship.
I am extensively trained in the use of Sand Tray, EMDR, DBT and CBT, and continue to investigate and learn new therapeutic modalities to help you reach your full potential.
Life isn’t always easy! Sometimes, even the strongest amongst us need help to work through life’s challenges. In today's complicated world, we all struggle with a multitude of stressors. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), I can help! I am passionate about encouraging my clients to focus on post traumatic growth within an empathic, validating and supportive clinical relationship.
(845) 203-8715 View (845) 203-8715
Photo of Kaylee Bayer, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaylee Bayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Welcome! I'm trauma therapist for teens, adults, and couples in Westchester. I hope to be your partner in finding and healing the root cause of your suffering. If you break a bone or get sick, you seek medical treatment. The same care and attention should be given to your mental health. I believe that great therapy is not just about addressing your mental health — it's about nurturing the whole self- mind, body, and spirit. Our lives are shaped by our experiences, emotions, and somatic responses to everyday life. As your therapist, I will guide you with authenticity and warmth, helping you navigate your unique therapeutic journey.
Welcome! I'm trauma therapist for teens, adults, and couples in Westchester. I hope to be your partner in finding and healing the root cause of your suffering. If you break a bone or get sick, you seek medical treatment. The same care and attention should be given to your mental health. I believe that great therapy is not just about addressing your mental health — it's about nurturing the whole self- mind, body, and spirit. Our lives are shaped by our experiences, emotions, and somatic responses to everyday life. As your therapist, I will guide you with authenticity and warmth, helping you navigate your unique therapeutic journey.
(914) 685-9788 View (914) 685-9788
Photo of Rebecca Donahue, PhD, Psychologist
Rebecca Donahue
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
As a licensed clinical psychologist, my practice is devoted to helping adults suffering from stress, anxiety and depression, often associated with trauma, life transitions, loss, problems in relationships or careers, and/or medical conditions. I also have advanced training in health psychology and offer treatment for insomnia and chronic pain. I feel privileged to witness the change that occurs as clients overcome difficulties, achieve their goals, and lead more satisfying lives. My approach is collaborative, active, supportive and real. I use evidence-based therapy that is individually tailored to be most effective for you.
As a licensed clinical psychologist, my practice is devoted to helping adults suffering from stress, anxiety and depression, often associated with trauma, life transitions, loss, problems in relationships or careers, and/or medical conditions. I also have advanced training in health psychology and offer treatment for insomnia and chronic pain. I feel privileged to witness the change that occurs as clients overcome difficulties, achieve their goals, and lead more satisfying lives. My approach is collaborative, active, supportive and real. I use evidence-based therapy that is individually tailored to be most effective for you.
(914) 908-6056 View (914) 908-6056
Photo of Glenn Berger, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Glenn Berger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Choosing a psychotherapist, relationship counselor, or coach is an important decision. Most importantly, you want someone who will not only understand you but can help you overcome your pain and stuckness and become your best self. I spend a great deal of time in the beginning learning about who you are and I then tailor my treatment to your specific needs. I don't just listen - my treatment is very interactive and you will gain deep insight into yourself and acquire tools to grow and change. My mission is to liberate the human spirit one person at a time.
Choosing a psychotherapist, relationship counselor, or coach is an important decision. Most importantly, you want someone who will not only understand you but can help you overcome your pain and stuckness and become your best self. I spend a great deal of time in the beginning learning about who you are and I then tailor my treatment to your specific needs. I don't just listen - my treatment is very interactive and you will gain deep insight into yourself and acquire tools to grow and change. My mission is to liberate the human spirit one person at a time.
(917) 426-0178 View (917) 426-0178
Photo of Budy J Whitfield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Budy J Whitfield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570  (Online Only)
Hello! My name is Budy (pronounced Beauty) . I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience working as therapist, Director and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, parenting problems, and navigating the child welfare system. I am experienced in treating physical trauma, emotional and sexual abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I consider the client/therapist relationship to be the most important thing in counseling. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity & compassion.
Hello! My name is Budy (pronounced Beauty) . I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 16 years of experience working as therapist, Director and life coach. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, ADHD, relationship issues, parenting problems, and navigating the child welfare system. I am experienced in treating physical trauma, emotional and sexual abuse. My counseling style is warm and interactive. I consider the client/therapist relationship to be the most important thing in counseling. I believe in treating everyone with respect, dignity & compassion.
(914) 745-2059 View (914) 745-2059
Photo of Katerina Spei, PsyD, Psychologist
Katerina Spei
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in Pleasantville NY and offering evening and weekend office hours. I work together with my clients as partners in understanding what is troublesome for them and how to improve the quality of their life. My clients are primarily adults who seek a short consultation to talk something over or ongoing psychotherapy that aims at the resolution of more complex problems. I have significant experience in helping people go through crises, deal with past painful life events, gain control over and overcome distressing symptoms, as well as problem solve and plan for their future.
I am a clinical psychologist practicing in Pleasantville NY and offering evening and weekend office hours. I work together with my clients as partners in understanding what is troublesome for them and how to improve the quality of their life. My clients are primarily adults who seek a short consultation to talk something over or ongoing psychotherapy that aims at the resolution of more complex problems. I have significant experience in helping people go through crises, deal with past painful life events, gain control over and overcome distressing symptoms, as well as problem solve and plan for their future.
(914) 326-2763 View (914) 326-2763
Photo of Kelly Keck-Rowe, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Kelly Keck-Rowe
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I aim to work with clients in a collaborative manner. I enjoy working with clients who aim to invest in their mental health and wellness and approach therapy as such. I am very familiar working with people who experience symptoms of anxiety and depression, chronic stress and struggles with balance. When one aspect of life is out of sync it can greatly impact the other areas.
I aim to work with clients in a collaborative manner. I enjoy working with clients who aim to invest in their mental health and wellness and approach therapy as such. I am very familiar working with people who experience symptoms of anxiety and depression, chronic stress and struggles with balance. When one aspect of life is out of sync it can greatly impact the other areas.
(914) 290-5207 View (914) 290-5207
Photo of Ahimsa Luciano, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC, Art Therapist
Ahimsa Luciano
Art Therapist, MA, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
21 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
Are you are a young adult in college or grad school, or a new professional role feeling slightly overwhelmed or excited, but facing scenarios that are not what you were expecting? Change is hard, even when it’s exactly what you may have wanted. I work with clients who may be feeling unsatisfied or stuck in their lives. Sometimes we may simply want a safe and objective space that is solely their own for regular check-ins on their lives. I love working with creatives, high achievers, and people just embarking on their adult lives to find connection to themselves and what they hope to accomplish.
Are you are a young adult in college or grad school, or a new professional role feeling slightly overwhelmed or excited, but facing scenarios that are not what you were expecting? Change is hard, even when it’s exactly what you may have wanted. I work with clients who may be feeling unsatisfied or stuck in their lives. Sometimes we may simply want a safe and objective space that is solely their own for regular check-ins on their lives. I love working with creatives, high achievers, and people just embarking on their adult lives to find connection to themselves and what they hope to accomplish.
(914) 380-7068 View (914) 380-7068
Photo of Talia Shiovitz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Talia Shiovitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am committed to being your strongest advocate. I believe in your unlimited capacity to grow and change, and my passion is to help you improve your quality of life. Together, we will find solutions and create long-term changes. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are seeking support for depression, anxiety, college adjustment, life transitions, sexuality/identity, stress management, relationship difficulties, and trauma.
I am committed to being your strongest advocate. I believe in your unlimited capacity to grow and change, and my passion is to help you improve your quality of life. Together, we will find solutions and create long-term changes. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are seeking support for depression, anxiety, college adjustment, life transitions, sexuality/identity, stress management, relationship difficulties, and trauma.
(914) 359-3054 View (914) 359-3054
Photo of Talia Shiovitz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Talia Shiovitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am committed to being your strongest advocate. I believe in your unlimited capacity to grow and change, and my passion is to help you improve your quality of life. Together, we will find solutions and create long-term changes. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are seeking support for depression, anxiety, college adjustment, life transitions, sexuality/identity, stress management, relationship difficulties, and trauma.
I am committed to being your strongest advocate. I believe in your unlimited capacity to grow and change, and my passion is to help you improve your quality of life. Together, we will find solutions and create long-term changes. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are seeking support for depression, anxiety, college adjustment, life transitions, sexuality/identity, stress management, relationship difficulties, and trauma.
(914) 353-4691 View (914) 353-4691
Photo of Talia Shiovitz, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Talia Shiovitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
I am committed to being your strongest advocate. I believe in your unlimited capacity to grow and change, and my passion is to help you improve your quality of life. Together, we will find solutions and create long-term changes. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are seeking support for depression, anxiety, college adjustment, life transitions, sexuality/identity, stress management, relationship difficulties, and trauma.
I am committed to being your strongest advocate. I believe in your unlimited capacity to grow and change, and my passion is to help you improve your quality of life. Together, we will find solutions and create long-term changes. I specialize in working with adolescents and adults who are seeking support for depression, anxiety, college adjustment, life transitions, sexuality/identity, stress management, relationship difficulties, and trauma.
(914) 350-2410 View (914) 350-2410
Photo of Alison Varianides - Westchester Psychotherapy, MSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Westchester Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pleasantville, NY 10570  (Online Only)
Have you been feeling stressed out or anxious lately? Perhaps you are feeling depressed or having trouble with relationships. Maybe you just want to feel more fulfilled in life. You might be worried about your adolescent. Maybe you've been told by your child's school that his/her behavior is out of control or that he/she seems depressed. Perhaps they are being bullied, cutting themselves or suffering from low self-esteem. My name is Alison Varianides and I am the Founder of Westchester Psychotherapy- a Private Group Practice specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults.
Have you been feeling stressed out or anxious lately? Perhaps you are feeling depressed or having trouble with relationships. Maybe you just want to feel more fulfilled in life. You might be worried about your adolescent. Maybe you've been told by your child's school that his/her behavior is out of control or that he/she seems depressed. Perhaps they are being bullied, cutting themselves or suffering from low self-esteem. My name is Alison Varianides and I am the Founder of Westchester Psychotherapy- a Private Group Practice specializing in the treatment of children, adolescents and adults.
(914) 806-7376 View (914) 806-7376

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carol Covelli, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Covelli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Briarcliff Manor, NY 10510  (Online Only)
I provide online EMDR and Brainspotting therapy throughout NY, NJ, and FL to help entrepreneurial women over 40 rewrite their narratives of "I'm not good enough" that had been imprinted on their minds and bodies because negative past experiences holding them back from success.
You’re an woman over 40 who is talented, capable and introspective. Despite your achievements both personally and professionally, you still have nagging feelings of being "not good enough" that gnaw at you with every accomplishment or hurdle. This may show up in your life as perfectionism, overachieving, a deprivation or scarcity mindset, procrastination, anxiety, or multitasking to oblivion. You long to get to the root of these feelings and change that faulty narrative. You’re through with feeling “not good enough” and you're ready to find the right therapist to go on the journey with you to rewrite this narrative.
I provide online EMDR and Brainspotting therapy throughout NY, NJ, and FL to help entrepreneurial women over 40 rewrite their narratives of "I'm not good enough" that had been imprinted on their minds and bodies because negative past experiences holding them back from success.
You’re an woman over 40 who is talented, capable and introspective. Despite your achievements both personally and professionally, you still have nagging feelings of being "not good enough" that gnaw at you with every accomplishment or hurdle. This may show up in your life as perfectionism, overachieving, a deprivation or scarcity mindset, procrastination, anxiety, or multitasking to oblivion. You long to get to the root of these feelings and change that faulty narrative. You’re through with feeling “not good enough” and you're ready to find the right therapist to go on the journey with you to rewrite this narrative.
(332) 239-2388 View (332) 239-2388
Photo of Suzanne Schuster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Schuster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Thornwood, NY 10594
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

See more therapy options for Pleasantville

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.