EMDR Therapists in Thornwood, NY

Photo of Joanna Clayton, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Joanna Clayton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Thornwood, NY 10594
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? Our Practice offers a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents who may be struggling with school issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral and family issues, and autism spectrum disorders. You can talk to me about anything. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Clients often feel better early on in treatment.
Have you wondered if your child or adolescent would benefit from therapy? Our Practice offers a complimentary consultation to discuss any questions you may have. I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents who may be struggling with school issues, depression, anxiety, ADHD, behavioral and family issues, and autism spectrum disorders. You can talk to me about anything. I am accessible to parents and easy to talk to. I focus on your child, recognize their strengths, and develop tools to become their own therapist by learning how to deal with challenges. Clients often feel better early on in treatment.
(646) 808-0738 View (646) 808-0738
Photo of Judith Zackson, PhD, Psychologist
Judith Zackson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thornwood, NY 10594
Have you wondered if therapy can be helpful to your adolescent or young adult? I offer a complimentary phone consultation to discuss any questions you may have. You can talk to me about anything; nothing you tell me will shock or surprise me. I can help your child become their own therapist by learning techniques and coping strategies to work through the 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 a reduction in symptoms and improved well-being early on in therapy.
Have you wondered if therapy can be helpful to your adolescent or young adult? I offer a complimentary phone consultation to discuss any questions you may have. You can talk to me about anything; nothing you tell me will shock or surprise me. I can help your child become their own therapist by learning techniques and coping strategies to work through the 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 a reduction in symptoms and improved well-being early on in therapy.
(347) 752-5318 View (347) 752-5318
Photo of Dr. Jesse Metzger, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Jesse Metzger
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Thornwood, NY 10594
I am a Columbia-trained clinical psychologist with expertise in treating a variety of life difficulties, including anxiety, depression, academic and career struggles, and self-esteem issues. I work well with a variety of clients, from college and graduate students to senior executives. I am compassionate, easy to talk to, and real. Whether you are experiencing chronic feelings of anxiety, unhappiness, or procrastinating and feeling stuck, I can help get your life back on track and reach your full potential. My clients often see reduction in symptoms and improvement early on in treatment.
I am a Columbia-trained clinical psychologist with expertise in treating a variety of life difficulties, including anxiety, depression, academic and career struggles, and self-esteem issues. I work well with a variety of clients, from college and graduate students to senior executives. I am compassionate, easy to talk to, and real. Whether you are experiencing chronic feelings of anxiety, unhappiness, or procrastinating and feeling stuck, I can help get your life back on track and reach your full potential. My clients often see reduction in symptoms and improvement early on in treatment.
(347) 342-1515 View (347) 342-1515
Photo of Medina Cecunjanin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Medina Cecunjanin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Thornwood, NY 10594
Are you a high-achieving Type A who has accomplished professional success but is struggling? Do you feel disengaged, lonely, negative, and beginning to dislike the person you are becoming? I have specialized training with high-functioning individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and relationship issues. I can help you harness your difficulties by learning how to manage stressors that come up in life and building resilience. I combine strategies from the best in our field, including evidence-based, solution-focused, and exploratory treatment. Simply put, whatever you're going through, I can help.
Are you a high-achieving Type A who has accomplished professional success but is struggling? Do you feel disengaged, lonely, negative, and beginning to dislike the person you are becoming? I have specialized training with high-functioning individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and relationship issues. I can help you harness your difficulties by learning how to manage stressors that come up in life and building resilience. I combine strategies from the best in our field, including evidence-based, solution-focused, and exploratory treatment. Simply put, whatever you're going through, I can help.
(646) 762-0590 View (646) 762-0590
Photo of Chandler French, LCAT, ATR-BC
Chandler French
Creative Arts Therapist, LCAT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Thornwood, NY 10594
I work with high-functioning children and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, self-harm, OCD, and social anxiety. I have specialized training in dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and expressive art therapy to effectively regulate emotions, reduce problematic behavior, and enhance interpersonal effectiveness skills. I provide time-limited, goal-directed treatment to help you work through their challenges and learn to become your own therapists. Clients often see a reduction of symptoms early on in treatment.
I work with high-functioning children and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, panic attacks, self-harm, OCD, and social anxiety. I have specialized training in dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and expressive art therapy to effectively regulate emotions, reduce problematic behavior, and enhance interpersonal effectiveness skills. I provide time-limited, goal-directed treatment to help you work through their challenges and learn to become your own therapists. Clients often see a reduction of symptoms early on in treatment.
(646) 956-2883 View (646) 956-2883

More Therapists Nearby

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 Andrea J Cimino, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrea J Cimino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hawthorne, NY 10532  (Online Only)
I have extensively trained in a trauma therapy known as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which I enjoy using with clients to help them reclaim their narrative, as well as CBT and DBT.
Going to therapy for the first time can be an intimidating experience. In my sessions, I prioritize creating a warm and safe environment for you to be your authentic self. I utilize a person-first, client centered approach to therapy. I enjoy working with all people in all populations, but I have specialized in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. My goal is to support you as you take your steps towards your desired goals and outcomes.
I have extensively trained in a trauma therapy known as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which I enjoy using with clients to help them reclaim their narrative, as well as CBT and DBT.
Going to therapy for the first time can be an intimidating experience. In my sessions, I prioritize creating a warm and safe environment for you to be your authentic self. I utilize a person-first, client centered approach to therapy. I enjoy working with all people in all populations, but I have specialized in working with children, adolescents, and young adults. My goal is to support you as you take your steps towards your desired goals and outcomes.
(914) 229-9023 View (914) 229-9023
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 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 Deborah S Cohen, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah S Cohen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Chappaqua, NY 10514
I am trained in EMDR which can help facilitate rapid resolution of certain issues.
If you are reading this page, you are probably in some kind of crisis or difficulty you have not been able to sort out by yourself. Although this can be uncomfortable, it also provides great possibilities for change. As a trained therapist with over 30 years of experience, I have a broad array of experiences and tools to help you effect the changes you want to make in a way that is gentle and respectful. Although it may seem impossible, individual change, changing a troubled relationship or getting your family back on track are all within reach.
I am trained in EMDR which can help facilitate rapid resolution of certain issues.
If you are reading this page, you are probably in some kind of crisis or difficulty you have not been able to sort out by yourself. Although this can be uncomfortable, it also provides great possibilities for change. As a trained therapist with over 30 years of experience, I have a broad array of experiences and tools to help you effect the changes you want to make in a way that is gentle and respectful. Although it may seem impossible, individual change, changing a troubled relationship or getting your family back on track are all within reach.
(917) 746-7839 View (917) 746-7839
Photo of 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 Rachel Winckel, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Winckel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
7 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 Gwenn Lowe (Gideon), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwenn Lowe (Gideon)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chappaqua, NY 10514
Reaching out for help can be challenging. If you are scrolling through this, that means you are contemplating doing just that, which is a difficult and positive first step. I understand and value the importance of finding the “right fit” for your therapy. My approach to therapy is warm, empathic, and strength-based. I am also an EMDR certified therapist. I work with children, adolescents and adults to create a safe and supportive environment where we can explore issues such as life transitions, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, and how to cope with challenges.
Reaching out for help can be challenging. If you are scrolling through this, that means you are contemplating doing just that, which is a difficult and positive first step. I understand and value the importance of finding the “right fit” for your therapy. My approach to therapy is warm, empathic, and strength-based. I am also an EMDR certified therapist. I work with children, adolescents and adults to create a safe and supportive environment where we can explore issues such as life transitions, relationship concerns, anxiety, depression, and how to cope with challenges.
(917) 341-7692 View (917) 341-7692
Photo of Deirdre A Cole, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deirdre A Cole
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
4 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 Suzanne Schuster, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Schuster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pleasantville, NY 10570
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.
(646) 480-1923 View (646) 480-1923
Photo of Letitia V. Coburn, LCSW, CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Letitia V. Coburn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CP
Verified Verified
Chappaqua, NY 10514
Waitlist for new clients
As founder of Gentle Growth Therapeutic Services, I provide psychotherapy to adults and adolescents who are seeking to heal from the results of painful childhoods and current losses. It is important to me that people feel both understood by me, and that I am connected to them. We discuss ideas or questions about our work together, if needed. People with whom I work are concerned about stress, family problems, addiction, childhood abuse, divorce or domestic violence. I am most excited and enlivened when I witness people gain new understanding about their situations or find and use new personal strengths.
As founder of Gentle Growth Therapeutic Services, I provide psychotherapy to adults and adolescents who are seeking to heal from the results of painful childhoods and current losses. It is important to me that people feel both understood by me, and that I am connected to them. We discuss ideas or questions about our work together, if needed. People with whom I work are concerned about stress, family problems, addiction, childhood abuse, divorce or domestic violence. I am most excited and enlivened when I witness people gain new understanding about their situations or find and use new personal strengths.
(914) 361-5924 View (914) 361-5924
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 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 Talia Shiovitz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Talia Shiovitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
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

See more therapy options for Thornwood

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.