EMDR Therapists in Smithtown, NY

Photo of Nicole Ashley Sullivan - Emotional Health Counseling Consulting LCSW PC, LCSW, CASAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emotional Health Counseling Consulting LCSW PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CASAC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
With the use of EMDR therapy and other various trauma modalities, we will work together in order to create true healing.
Have you experienced an event or many events that have completely changed your life and view of the world? Do you feel anxious, afraid, and alone? Are you finding it difficult to “relax” despite feeling fatigued? This can be very difficult and it’s also incredibly common for people who have experienced trauma. Trauma creates physical and emotional effects on the mind and body. As such, working with a trained trauma therapist can change your life! We offer effective trauma therapy and utilize EMDR throughout the practice. It helps people heal from trauma and have healthier, happier relationships and a more meaningful life.
With the use of EMDR therapy and other various trauma modalities, we will work together in order to create true healing.
Have you experienced an event or many events that have completely changed your life and view of the world? Do you feel anxious, afraid, and alone? Are you finding it difficult to “relax” despite feeling fatigued? This can be very difficult and it’s also incredibly common for people who have experienced trauma. Trauma creates physical and emotional effects on the mind and body. As such, working with a trained trauma therapist can change your life! We offer effective trauma therapy and utilize EMDR throughout the practice. It helps people heal from trauma and have healthier, happier relationships and a more meaningful life.
(631) 519-8869 View (631) 519-8869
Photo of Danielle D Relyea, MSW, LCSW, -R, AF-EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle D Relyea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, -R, AF-EMDR
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
Ongoing groups for Wellness, Meditation, Mindfulness, Energy Work, Spirituality & EMDR services.
It takes courage to seek guidance and can take a few tries to connect with a Mental Health Professional thatcan meet your needs. So keep trying until you meet that person & don't give up Hope!:) I have twenty plus years experience in mental health care, I'm dedicated to decreasing mental health stigma, highly passionate about understanding our mind practicing progressive, advanced, integrative treatment approaches. I'm always learning & growing from my work with clients & consider it a sacred privilege to assist another in their healing journey. I treat a broad range of issues, including but not limited to the most common in human experience: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Addiction, Grief & Loss, Relationship Difficulties, & Stress management. Whole Person, Multifaceted approach All the best in your wellness journey Danielle :)
Ongoing groups for Wellness, Meditation, Mindfulness, Energy Work, Spirituality & EMDR services.
It takes courage to seek guidance and can take a few tries to connect with a Mental Health Professional thatcan meet your needs. So keep trying until you meet that person & don't give up Hope!:) I have twenty plus years experience in mental health care, I'm dedicated to decreasing mental health stigma, highly passionate about understanding our mind practicing progressive, advanced, integrative treatment approaches. I'm always learning & growing from my work with clients & consider it a sacred privilege to assist another in their healing journey. I treat a broad range of issues, including but not limited to the most common in human experience: Depression, Anxiety, Trauma, Addiction, Grief & Loss, Relationship Difficulties, & Stress management. Whole Person, Multifaceted approach All the best in your wellness journey Danielle :)
(631) 734-0415 View (631) 734-0415
Photo of Laura DeSilva, LMHC
Laura DeSilva
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
I'm also EMDR-trained and certified in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
I'm an eclectic, client-centered clinician who views counseling as a collaboration. I strive to bring genuine warmth and acceptance to the therapeutic relationship so my clients feel safe and unconditionally supported to grow and change. I enjoy working with all adult populations regarding a variety of issues and am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I'm also EMDR-trained and certified in Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy.
I'm an eclectic, client-centered clinician who views counseling as a collaboration. I strive to bring genuine warmth and acceptance to the therapeutic relationship so my clients feel safe and unconditionally supported to grow and change. I enjoy working with all adult populations regarding a variety of issues and am experienced in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(516) 667-1586 View (516) 667-1586
Photo of Lia Baldasano, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lia Baldasano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
My therapeutic approach draws from a range of psychological and behavioral theories, which are tailored to the unique needs of each individual, and synthesizes aspects of evidence-based practices such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral theory, mind-body techniques, and attachment theory, among others.
I understand that choosing a therapist may be one of the most important decisions you can make. As a caring and effective clinician, I will help you work through your problems in a warm, non-judgmental and supportive environment, where you can comfortably explore feelings and concerns in an open and honest manner. Most importantly, I help my clients heal, change and make a difference in their lives. I am also committed to providing a safe space for BIPOC and LGBTQi clients.
My therapeutic approach draws from a range of psychological and behavioral theories, which are tailored to the unique needs of each individual, and synthesizes aspects of evidence-based practices such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral theory, mind-body techniques, and attachment theory, among others.
I understand that choosing a therapist may be one of the most important decisions you can make. As a caring and effective clinician, I will help you work through your problems in a warm, non-judgmental and supportive environment, where you can comfortably explore feelings and concerns in an open and honest manner. Most importantly, I help my clients heal, change and make a difference in their lives. I am also committed to providing a safe space for BIPOC and LGBTQi clients.
(516) 252-0552 View (516) 252-0552
Photo of Amy Gustavson, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Amy Gustavson
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
I am specifically trained and extensively supervised in EMDR which is an evidence-based technique for treating trauma.
My approach as a therapist has been to provide a safe, warm and accepting space in which to fully explore the thoughts, feelings or behaviors that are interfering with your ability to achieve balance and contentment. Together we can develop a level of comfort and collaborate on a treatment plan that best meets your needs.
I am specifically trained and extensively supervised in EMDR which is an evidence-based technique for treating trauma.
My approach as a therapist has been to provide a safe, warm and accepting space in which to fully explore the thoughts, feelings or behaviors that are interfering with your ability to achieve balance and contentment. Together we can develop a level of comfort and collaborate on a treatment plan that best meets your needs.
(516) 595-0827 View (516) 595-0827
Photo of Frank John Guastella - Long Island Behavioral Health, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Long Island Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
I am a consultant in training with expertise in EMDR therapy offering discounted consultation services to mental health care professionals who are interested in incorporating EMDR into their practice.
Seeking help for mental health challenges can be uncomfortable for many. Individuals need a therapist that can create a non-judgmental, empathic space where clients can feel safe. In my work with clients, I prioritize establishing that safety by approaching people with compassion and curiosity. I strive to provide clients with the highest quality of care by continuing my education on issues that are most relevant to my client's needs. I believe that therapy must be tailored the individual's needs and collaborate with my clients to help them cope with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
I am a consultant in training with expertise in EMDR therapy offering discounted consultation services to mental health care professionals who are interested in incorporating EMDR into their practice.
Seeking help for mental health challenges can be uncomfortable for many. Individuals need a therapist that can create a non-judgmental, empathic space where clients can feel safe. In my work with clients, I prioritize establishing that safety by approaching people with compassion and curiosity. I strive to provide clients with the highest quality of care by continuing my education on issues that are most relevant to my client's needs. I believe that therapy must be tailored the individual's needs and collaborate with my clients to help them cope with anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(631) 938-2589 View (631) 938-2589
Photo of Jenn Gattuso, MS, MHC-LP
Jenn Gattuso
MS, MHC-LP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
Waitlist for new clients
As an EMDR trained therapist, I often use a lens focused on exploring how the past might be impacting the present and identifying the core beliefs we have about ourselves.
I’m so glad you’re here! I want to commend you for taking the first step of looking for counseling services. Reaching out for help is not an easy task, it takes a lot of self-awareness and courage. Coming to therapy can be nerve-racking, so it is my goal to create a space for you to feel safe, where you can be brave to be your authentic self. Life is tough, you are tougher, and together we can practice ways to overcome a variety of life's difficult challenges. In sessions, you can expect me to take a person-centered approach, prioritizing your perspective and experience while working to understand your inner world.
As an EMDR trained therapist, I often use a lens focused on exploring how the past might be impacting the present and identifying the core beliefs we have about ourselves.
I’m so glad you’re here! I want to commend you for taking the first step of looking for counseling services. Reaching out for help is not an easy task, it takes a lot of self-awareness and courage. Coming to therapy can be nerve-racking, so it is my goal to create a space for you to feel safe, where you can be brave to be your authentic self. Life is tough, you are tougher, and together we can practice ways to overcome a variety of life's difficult challenges. In sessions, you can expect me to take a person-centered approach, prioritizing your perspective and experience while working to understand your inner world.
(631) 641-7383 View (631) 641-7383
Photo of Sophia Cuccia, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Sophia Cuccia
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a therapist with specializations in mindfulness, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), I bring a comprehensive and integrative approach to helping clients who are grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and more.
I am happy you are here! My ideal client is someone with a curiosity about themselves and a deep desire for self-discovery. If you find yourself constantly pondering your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, wondering why you react a certain way in certain situations, you're exactly the kind of person I'm here to support. Together, we will explore YOU, and work to uncover the hidden patterns, beliefs, and motivations that shape your life. In our work together, you'll discover that your voice matters, your experiences are valid, and your potential for growth is limitless.
As a therapist with specializations in mindfulness, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), I bring a comprehensive and integrative approach to helping clients who are grappling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, trauma and more.
I am happy you are here! My ideal client is someone with a curiosity about themselves and a deep desire for self-discovery. If you find yourself constantly pondering your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, wondering why you react a certain way in certain situations, you're exactly the kind of person I'm here to support. Together, we will explore YOU, and work to uncover the hidden patterns, beliefs, and motivations that shape your life. In our work together, you'll discover that your voice matters, your experiences are valid, and your potential for growth is limitless.
(631) 825-7715 View (631) 825-7715
Photo of Brianna Kline - Feel Alive Therapy LCSW P.C., LMSW
Feel Alive Therapy LCSW P.C.
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in CBT, EMDR, couples and family therapy, trauma-informed care, and continue to research and learn new techniques that will best serve my client’s and their needs.
Hello! I'm Brianna, a Licensed Master Social Worker. I am an Adelphi University graduate receiving my BSW in 2018 and my MSW in 2019. I have experience working in schools, non-profits, and medical settings. I have a history working as an in-home therapist servicing youth with severe emotional and behavioral disturbances and in the field of substance misuse. I’ve worked with many different populations including ages ranging from adolescents to geriatrics, LGBTQ+, family caregivers, substance abuse, and victims of domestic violence & sexual assault, just to name a few.
I have training in CBT, EMDR, couples and family therapy, trauma-informed care, and continue to research and learn new techniques that will best serve my client’s and their needs.
Hello! I'm Brianna, a Licensed Master Social Worker. I am an Adelphi University graduate receiving my BSW in 2018 and my MSW in 2019. I have experience working in schools, non-profits, and medical settings. I have a history working as an in-home therapist servicing youth with severe emotional and behavioral disturbances and in the field of substance misuse. I’ve worked with many different populations including ages ranging from adolescents to geriatrics, LGBTQ+, family caregivers, substance abuse, and victims of domestic violence & sexual assault, just to name a few.
(631) 600-7824 View (631) 600-7824
Photo of Amanda Mazzone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Mazzone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help, so kudos to you! I believe in a strengths-based, client-centered approach in my practice. I strive to provide my clients with a warm, comfortable, and supportive environment to undergo their mental wellness journey. I am a trauma informed therapist and am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. Trauma can come in many forms such as childhood emotional/physical abuse, sexual abuse, witnessing/experiencing relational violence, and surviving horrific incidents. It is worth mentioning I enjoy working with and empowering adult children of emotionally immature parents.
It takes a lot of courage to reach out for help, so kudos to you! I believe in a strengths-based, client-centered approach in my practice. I strive to provide my clients with a warm, comfortable, and supportive environment to undergo their mental wellness journey. I am a trauma informed therapist and am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting. Trauma can come in many forms such as childhood emotional/physical abuse, sexual abuse, witnessing/experiencing relational violence, and surviving horrific incidents. It is worth mentioning I enjoy working with and empowering adult children of emotionally immature parents.
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Photo of Sophia Parisi, LMHC, Counselor
Sophia Parisi
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence-based practices such as: Psychodynamic, Trauma-Focused, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to assist my clients as they heal and transform into the best version of themselves.
Are you anxious more than ever, feeling “off” or “not like yourself” lately, facing relationship issues, or maybe you’re tired of holding everything in and ready to talk to someone? If you answered yes to any, you’ve come to the right place. In our sessions you will find that therapy is a meaningful conversation that takes place in a safe, collaborative, and nonjudgemental space where YOU set the pace and where we can identify conflict and options, make efforts toward self-growth, and pursue paths of change. My goal is to help you uncover your own motivation to change and empower you to be confident in the decisions you make.
I utilize evidence-based practices such as: Psychodynamic, Trauma-Focused, CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to assist my clients as they heal and transform into the best version of themselves.
Are you anxious more than ever, feeling “off” or “not like yourself” lately, facing relationship issues, or maybe you’re tired of holding everything in and ready to talk to someone? If you answered yes to any, you’ve come to the right place. In our sessions you will find that therapy is a meaningful conversation that takes place in a safe, collaborative, and nonjudgemental space where YOU set the pace and where we can identify conflict and options, make efforts toward self-growth, and pursue paths of change. My goal is to help you uncover your own motivation to change and empower you to be confident in the decisions you make.
(631) 213-1119 View (631) 213-1119
Photo of Iris Eplan, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Iris Eplan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
I have a passion to serve and help others thrive emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Being in the healing field for many years as a yoga and meditation teacher, sound healer and counselor, I have worked with both groups and individuals to help them unlock their inherent potential and work through limiting beliefs. Specializing in adults, children and adolescent, clients with all different challenges can benefit. Using different modalities including CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and other integrated approaches, clients are able to lead happier, more fulfilling lives. Loving kindness is central!
I have a passion to serve and help others thrive emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Being in the healing field for many years as a yoga and meditation teacher, sound healer and counselor, I have worked with both groups and individuals to help them unlock their inherent potential and work through limiting beliefs. Specializing in adults, children and adolescent, clients with all different challenges can benefit. Using different modalities including CBT, DBT, mindfulness, and other integrated approaches, clients are able to lead happier, more fulfilling lives. Loving kindness is central!
(631) 490-5857 View (631) 490-5857
Photo of Nicholas Costa, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicholas Costa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
Sometimes life hits us hard. If you are dealing with a big transition, depression, anxiety, inattention, irritability or struggling to find hope, I’m here to say you are not alone and you can feel better. I help families, couples, adolescents, and adults learn how to manage diverse mental health challenges. We can build a collaborative environment to approach your goals and build skills to healthily cope with your troubles. As a person who has struggled with mental health issues in the past, I look forward to giving back and helping others work through their struggles.
Sometimes life hits us hard. If you are dealing with a big transition, depression, anxiety, inattention, irritability or struggling to find hope, I’m here to say you are not alone and you can feel better. I help families, couples, adolescents, and adults learn how to manage diverse mental health challenges. We can build a collaborative environment to approach your goals and build skills to healthily cope with your troubles. As a person who has struggled with mental health issues in the past, I look forward to giving back and helping others work through their struggles.
(631) 709-1056 View (631) 709-1056
Photo of Antonietta Bruccoleri, LCSW, CTRS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Antonietta Bruccoleri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CTRS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
I provide psychotherapy for individuals, couples and adolescents. Clients describe me as being compassionate and non judgmental which helps to create a safe space to explore even the most difficult topics. I use several different modalities including mindfulness, positive psychology, and transpersonal theory. I believe in a mind body and spirit connection. Therapy is about supporting you in getting beneath the layers of habit, addiction, stress and obsessive thinking and help you recognize the essential self within rather than relying only on the mind, which is often the source of negativity.
I provide psychotherapy for individuals, couples and adolescents. Clients describe me as being compassionate and non judgmental which helps to create a safe space to explore even the most difficult topics. I use several different modalities including mindfulness, positive psychology, and transpersonal theory. I believe in a mind body and spirit connection. Therapy is about supporting you in getting beneath the layers of habit, addiction, stress and obsessive thinking and help you recognize the essential self within rather than relying only on the mind, which is often the source of negativity.
(516) 862-2175 View (516) 862-2175
Photo of Andrea Papp - Castle Counseling LCSW PC, LCSW-R, Ch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Castle Counseling LCSW PC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, Ch
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
Castle Counseling is a group of experienced psychotherapists providing services to individuals, couples and families of all ages. Our approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients address current life challenges and longstanding issues. With sensitivity and compassion in a confidential setting we help our clients find resolution to a wide range of personal concerns and psychological challenges.
Castle Counseling is a group of experienced psychotherapists providing services to individuals, couples and families of all ages. Our approach is to provide support and practical feedback to help clients address current life challenges and longstanding issues. With sensitivity and compassion in a confidential setting we help our clients find resolution to a wide range of personal concerns and psychological challenges.
(516) 226-7521 View (516) 226-7521
Photo of Samantha Tavel, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Samantha Tavel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Smithtown, NY 11787
Does your past haunt the person you want to be in your relationships? Do you often feel anxiety takes over your relationships? Do you find you are unable to communicate, as you always try to find the "right thing to say"?
Does your past haunt the person you want to be in your relationships? Do you often feel anxiety takes over your relationships? Do you find you are unable to communicate, as you always try to find the "right thing to say"?
(631) 892-2176 View (631) 892-2176
Photo of Stefanie Stadler - Sunshine Therapy LCSW P.C., LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunshine Therapy LCSW P.C.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
Our mission at Sunshine Therapy LCSW P.C. is to provide evidence-based, goal-oriented therapy to help you and/or your family achieve optimal mental health and wellness. If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic stress, relationship struggles or having a difficult time adjusting to life as a new parent — we can help. Psychotherapy can provide the support you need to help you find your way towards a better life. Even if you’re feeling lost now, we can help guide you in making lasting, positive changes in your life.
Our mission at Sunshine Therapy LCSW P.C. is to provide evidence-based, goal-oriented therapy to help you and/or your family achieve optimal mental health and wellness. If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, chronic stress, relationship struggles or having a difficult time adjusting to life as a new parent — we can help. Psychotherapy can provide the support you need to help you find your way towards a better life. Even if you’re feeling lost now, we can help guide you in making lasting, positive changes in your life.
(631) 337-8111 View (631) 337-8111
Photo of Oscar M. Solarte, LMSW
Oscar M. Solarte
LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
Navigating life’s challenges—from personal relationships to professional transitions—can feel overwhelming. As a Psychotherapist and US Army combat veteran, I have firsthand experience with the high-stress demands of both military and civilian life. I specialize in helping clients from all walks of life overcome mental health challenges by utilizing evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Whether you’re adjusting to everyday stresses or recovering from significant life changes, I am committed to supporting your journey toward better mental health and well-being.
Navigating life’s challenges—from personal relationships to professional transitions—can feel overwhelming. As a Psychotherapist and US Army combat veteran, I have firsthand experience with the high-stress demands of both military and civilian life. I specialize in helping clients from all walks of life overcome mental health challenges by utilizing evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing. Whether you’re adjusting to everyday stresses or recovering from significant life changes, I am committed to supporting your journey toward better mental health and well-being.
(631) 349-1533 View (631) 349-1533
Photo of Sarah Cupka, MHC-LP, CAT
Sarah Cupka
MHC-LP, CAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
I see you. I hear you. I understand the pain you're going through. You've been through emotional, physical or sexual abuse at the hands of someone who was supposed to love and protect you. It's not your fault, and I am here to help you overcome the pain and regain control of your life.  Mood swings, intense anxiety, feeling inadequate as a parent, codependency and struggling with your identity are all completely understandable responses. My goal is to help you learn to trust your judgment, embrace your flaws, and rediscover your worth.  You deserve love, happiness, and a bright future. I am here to help you achieve those goals.
I see you. I hear you. I understand the pain you're going through. You've been through emotional, physical or sexual abuse at the hands of someone who was supposed to love and protect you. It's not your fault, and I am here to help you overcome the pain and regain control of your life.  Mood swings, intense anxiety, feeling inadequate as a parent, codependency and struggling with your identity are all completely understandable responses. My goal is to help you learn to trust your judgment, embrace your flaws, and rediscover your worth.  You deserve love, happiness, and a bright future. I am here to help you achieve those goals.
(934) 203-8456 View (934) 203-8456
Photo of Erica Zeller, LCSW-R, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erica Zeller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-R, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithtown, NY 11787
You feel a knot in your stomach, worried about every choice you make. When you think about your loved one who passed, you feel your heart breaking in your chest. After many years as part of a “we”, the new adjective of "single” is way more painful to hear than anticipated. Just a handful of weeks ago, you were a college student, and now you find yourself in the real world, with new, scary, adult responsibilities. You have swapped your tried and true professional skillset for your "doing your best" parental responsibilities as a new, stay at home parent. While change is challenging and painful, you want to be able to endure it.
You feel a knot in your stomach, worried about every choice you make. When you think about your loved one who passed, you feel your heart breaking in your chest. After many years as part of a “we”, the new adjective of "single” is way more painful to hear than anticipated. Just a handful of weeks ago, you were a college student, and now you find yourself in the real world, with new, scary, adult responsibilities. You have swapped your tried and true professional skillset for your "doing your best" parental responsibilities as a new, stay at home parent. While change is challenging and painful, you want to be able to endure it.
(631) 863-9223 View (631) 863-9223
1
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.