EMDR Therapists in Oregon, OH

Photo of Alana Trevino, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alana Trevino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Oregon, OH 43616
I specialize in EMDR therapy and I also bring tools from ACT, and CBT to help you process the things stuck in your head and then create a life you love again.
You're so tired of fighting the invisible battle of your mind. Intrusive thoughts, brain fog, and self doubt keep you from reaching your full potential. The negative thoughts and feeling constantly keyed up or on edge causes conflict in your relationships and wears on your sense of self. You have goals and aspirations but the past keeps holding you back from your future. I specialize in helping clients identify and overcome their stuck points in life and heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, or self doubt. I specialize in working with current and former first responders, adults of all ages, and teens ages 16 +.
I specialize in EMDR therapy and I also bring tools from ACT, and CBT to help you process the things stuck in your head and then create a life you love again.
You're so tired of fighting the invisible battle of your mind. Intrusive thoughts, brain fog, and self doubt keep you from reaching your full potential. The negative thoughts and feeling constantly keyed up or on edge causes conflict in your relationships and wears on your sense of self. You have goals and aspirations but the past keeps holding you back from your future. I specialize in helping clients identify and overcome their stuck points in life and heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, or self doubt. I specialize in working with current and former first responders, adults of all ages, and teens ages 16 +.
(419) 749-6471 View (419) 749-6471
Photo of Bridget Schwirzinski, MA, LPCC-S, LSW, Counselor
Bridget Schwirzinski
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LSW
Verified Verified
Oregon, OH 43616
My training also includes EMDR.
“Therapy is too good to be limited to the sick” – Erving Polster. Every individual has a story that needs to be told or listened to. My mindful approach, is to help others write their stories. Then with compassion and assertiveness help those change or continue their story. I have familiarity working with adults, individuals with chronic illnesses, first responders, teenagers with chronic illness, SPMI population, trauma, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, support during life transitions, chronic illnesses, individuals with dual diagnosis (not in active use), relationship upset, emotional dysregulation and stress management.
My training also includes EMDR.
“Therapy is too good to be limited to the sick” – Erving Polster. Every individual has a story that needs to be told or listened to. My mindful approach, is to help others write their stories. Then with compassion and assertiveness help those change or continue their story. I have familiarity working with adults, individuals with chronic illnesses, first responders, teenagers with chronic illness, SPMI population, trauma, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, support during life transitions, chronic illnesses, individuals with dual diagnosis (not in active use), relationship upset, emotional dysregulation and stress management.
(419) 731-6159 View (419) 731-6159
Photo of Christina M Cavaliere, MSW, LISW, PAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina M Cavaliere
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, PAT
Verified Verified
Oregon, OH 43616
20+ years of experience in mental health; cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, mindfulness training, EMDR and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
Helping clients manage their mental health issues and build the life they desire with a variety of modalities, strength-based approaches and genuine compassion and concern
20+ years of experience in mental health; cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal therapy, mindfulness training, EMDR and psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy.
Helping clients manage their mental health issues and build the life they desire with a variety of modalities, strength-based approaches and genuine compassion and concern
(419) 664-5075 View (419) 664-5075
Photo of Branden Fox, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Branden Fox
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oregon, OH 43616
I am EMDR trained, and offer telehealth and in person sessions.
Accepting new clients! Have you been struggling with a significant life change such as entering adulthood, recent separation, empty nesting, becoming a parent? During this transition, have you felt like you lost yourself in the process? If you are looking to learn and use new coping skills, set more boundaries in your relationships, and are looking for effective communication techniques to strengthen your relationships, I would love to help! I often work with clients with "engineer-like" / very logical- based mindsets. I have a directive and driven therapy style, and a solution-focused approach.
I am EMDR trained, and offer telehealth and in person sessions.
Accepting new clients! Have you been struggling with a significant life change such as entering adulthood, recent separation, empty nesting, becoming a parent? During this transition, have you felt like you lost yourself in the process? If you are looking to learn and use new coping skills, set more boundaries in your relationships, and are looking for effective communication techniques to strengthen your relationships, I would love to help! I often work with clients with "engineer-like" / very logical- based mindsets. I have a directive and driven therapy style, and a solution-focused approach.
(419) 910-2820 View (419) 910-2820
Photo of Olena Sowers, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Olena Sowers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Oregon, OH 43618
Making the decision to find help is hard enough. That is why my goal in counseling is to create a place where you feel safe enough to tell your story. I am Olena Sowers, LPCC, and while I work with many concerns, I specialize in trauma and PTSD and EMDR. I have worked with a variety of client concerns, from anxiety, foster care and adoption to addiction, family conflict, anger, and others. I specialize in trauma and PTSD and am trained in EMDR. I have experience working with individuals who survived physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and neglect, assault, first responders, veterans, motor vehicle accident victims, and many more.
Making the decision to find help is hard enough. That is why my goal in counseling is to create a place where you feel safe enough to tell your story. I am Olena Sowers, LPCC, and while I work with many concerns, I specialize in trauma and PTSD and EMDR. I have worked with a variety of client concerns, from anxiety, foster care and adoption to addiction, family conflict, anger, and others. I specialize in trauma and PTSD and am trained in EMDR. I have experience working with individuals who survived physical, sexual, and emotional abuse and neglect, assault, first responders, veterans, motor vehicle accident victims, and many more.
(440) 901-1192 View (440) 901-1192
Photo of Christina Maria Cavaliere, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Maria Cavaliere
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
Oregon, OH 43616
With over 20 years working in mental health, I hope to present my clients with a wide range of experience and insight into their presenting problems. Using a foundation open-mindedness, compassionate inquiry and personalized treatment approaches, clients can find a source of support and respectful reflection to solve and manage behavioral and emotional issues. I hope to help clients tap into their inner healing intelligence and promote self-efficacy and empowerment. I have experience working with a wide range of concerns; depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, anger management, trauma, childhood trauma and abuse and many more.
With over 20 years working in mental health, I hope to present my clients with a wide range of experience and insight into their presenting problems. Using a foundation open-mindedness, compassionate inquiry and personalized treatment approaches, clients can find a source of support and respectful reflection to solve and manage behavioral and emotional issues. I hope to help clients tap into their inner healing intelligence and promote self-efficacy and empowerment. I have experience working with a wide range of concerns; depression, anxiety, OCD, ADHD, anger management, trauma, childhood trauma and abuse and many more.
(567) 221-4577 View (567) 221-4577
Photo of Michelle Coutcher, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Coutcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Oregon, OH 43616
Waitlist for new clients
Everyone can use a little help at sometime in their life.
Everyone can use a little help at sometime in their life.
(567) 510-4791 View (567) 510-4791
Photo of Cynthia Holloway, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Holloway
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oregon, OH 43616
Cynthia Holloway Independent Marriage and Family Therapist Hello, I’m Cindy I’m a master’s prepared Independently licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I look forward to helping individuals as they work to heal and develop skills that will help them help themselves. Currently, my practice consists of individual adults. Often, these folks are navigating a significant life transition and / or working through trauma from the past that seems to interfere with current life experiences and well-being. Disorders these individuals bring with them include depression, anxiety, various identity issues, and post-traumatic stress.
Cynthia Holloway Independent Marriage and Family Therapist Hello, I’m Cindy I’m a master’s prepared Independently licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I look forward to helping individuals as they work to heal and develop skills that will help them help themselves. Currently, my practice consists of individual adults. Often, these folks are navigating a significant life transition and / or working through trauma from the past that seems to interfere with current life experiences and well-being. Disorders these individuals bring with them include depression, anxiety, various identity issues, and post-traumatic stress.
(440) 641-3862 View (440) 641-3862
Photo of Jessica Jambor, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Jambor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oregon, OH 43616
Not accepting new clients
​She utilizes a variety of therapy models including EMDR.
Jessica may be a good fit as a therapist for you if you struggle with PTSD, suicidal ideation, self-image, grief, or anxiety. Also, if you do not feel good enough in many areas of your life. Her clients appreciate her welcoming and patient approach. ​"I am passionate about connecting with people and providing a safe and judgment free space in which you can share your authentic self. I aim to make therapy more approachable and less intimidating. My goal is to work through anxieties, traumas, or barriers that are in the way of becoming who you truly are.
​She utilizes a variety of therapy models including EMDR.
Jessica may be a good fit as a therapist for you if you struggle with PTSD, suicidal ideation, self-image, grief, or anxiety. Also, if you do not feel good enough in many areas of your life. Her clients appreciate her welcoming and patient approach. ​"I am passionate about connecting with people and providing a safe and judgment free space in which you can share your authentic self. I aim to make therapy more approachable and less intimidating. My goal is to work through anxieties, traumas, or barriers that are in the way of becoming who you truly are.
(419) 374-9636 View (419) 374-9636

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jd Reisinger, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jd Reisinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43605
I help clients gain insight into factors contributing to their negative wellbeing, and I help them reprocess symptoms that are connected to inner trauma(s) through utilizing EMDR therapy.
I focus my practice on specializing with men, teens, and couples. The people I work with are usually struggling with anxiety, trauma, or finding meaningful ways to cope with daily stressors. People who need a kind, nonjudgmental, and growth-oriented professional to support their greater wellbeing work well with me. My typical client is looking to have greater success in their life, needs professional support, and is seeking to gain greater independence by coming to counseling.
I help clients gain insight into factors contributing to their negative wellbeing, and I help them reprocess symptoms that are connected to inner trauma(s) through utilizing EMDR therapy.
I focus my practice on specializing with men, teens, and couples. The people I work with are usually struggling with anxiety, trauma, or finding meaningful ways to cope with daily stressors. People who need a kind, nonjudgmental, and growth-oriented professional to support their greater wellbeing work well with me. My typical client is looking to have greater success in their life, needs professional support, and is seeking to gain greater independence by coming to counseling.
(419) 452-4714 View (419) 452-4714
Photo of Lauren M Komperda, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Lauren M Komperda
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43601
She is trained in providing EMDR therapy, which is a form of therapy that provides a way for clients to heal from trauma and distressing experiences.
Lauren has over a decade of experience working with teens and adults through individual and family therapy. She specializes in treating PTSD, mood disorders, anxiety, postpartum and infertility issues, parent-teen conflict, and trauma.
She is trained in providing EMDR therapy, which is a form of therapy that provides a way for clients to heal from trauma and distressing experiences.
Lauren has over a decade of experience working with teens and adults through individual and family therapy. She specializes in treating PTSD, mood disorders, anxiety, postpartum and infertility issues, parent-teen conflict, and trauma.
(419) 318-0095 View (419) 318-0095
Photo of Rachel Keay-McVay, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Keay-McVay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43606
Regarding treatment techniques, my specialty is EMDR, which can reduce the distressing association that may linger with a belief, memory, or sensation.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
Regarding treatment techniques, my specialty is EMDR, which can reduce the distressing association that may linger with a belief, memory, or sensation.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
(419) 452-0608 View (419) 452-0608
Photo of Leonna Jackson - The Heart’s Haven Counseling (Leonna Jackson), MSW, LISW-S, LICDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Heart’s Haven Counseling (Leonna Jackson)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LICDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43606
I am EMDR trained and currently accepting new patients.
6/23/24 Accepting Clients (please visit our website). Where do you go when your heart needs a safe place? Dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and all the unexpected stresses of life is hard, especially alone. At The Heart's Haven we specialize in providing a safe and comfortable space to sort through life's issues and take some pressure off of your mind and heart. I provide a confidential haven to support you in learning how to love and take care of yourself. "Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.”
I am EMDR trained and currently accepting new patients.
6/23/24 Accepting Clients (please visit our website). Where do you go when your heart needs a safe place? Dealing with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, and all the unexpected stresses of life is hard, especially alone. At The Heart's Haven we specialize in providing a safe and comfortable space to sort through life's issues and take some pressure off of your mind and heart. I provide a confidential haven to support you in learning how to love and take care of yourself. "Life doesn’t get easier or more forgiving, we get stronger and more resilient.”
(419) 518-5738 View (419) 518-5738
Photo of Rachel Tincher, LPCC, Counselor
Rachel Tincher
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Ottawa Hills, OH 43606
I strive to balance my career and enjoyment of life, have intentionality with my words and actions, and to continue expanding my knowledge and experience through up to date continuing education and certifications, from yoga and mindfulness, equine assisted psychotherapy, to EMDR.
My mission is to help others connect with, trust, and understand themselves, and as a result create deeper connections, trust, and understanding of others, which naturally creates a more fulfilling, peaceful life for each of my clients. I value providing quality service catering to each of my clients individual needs, and that’s why I practice what I preach to my clients!
I strive to balance my career and enjoyment of life, have intentionality with my words and actions, and to continue expanding my knowledge and experience through up to date continuing education and certifications, from yoga and mindfulness, equine assisted psychotherapy, to EMDR.
My mission is to help others connect with, trust, and understand themselves, and as a result create deeper connections, trust, and understanding of others, which naturally creates a more fulfilling, peaceful life for each of my clients. I value providing quality service catering to each of my clients individual needs, and that’s why I practice what I preach to my clients!
(419) 949-8990 View (419) 949-8990
Photo of Jessica Oley, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Oley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43606
Trained in EMDR and mentored through a Sensorimotor Psychotherapy lens, I value a Compassion- Focused approach with clinical focus in adaptive strengthening, attachment repair and inner child healing.
Are you noticing that people pleasing, codependency and anxiety are getting in your way? If you'd like to show up more compassionately for yourself and interact with the world from a place of authenticity, I invite you to begin a new knowing of you! I believe in the transformative power of compassion, attunement, and repair. When Another holds space for implicit memory and emotional states held in our nervous systems, we access and heal relational wounds that created "others- focused" patterns. We gain respect for our needs and boundaries. Valuing curiosity over judgement, we repair our felt sense of safety, agency, and sturdiness.
Trained in EMDR and mentored through a Sensorimotor Psychotherapy lens, I value a Compassion- Focused approach with clinical focus in adaptive strengthening, attachment repair and inner child healing.
Are you noticing that people pleasing, codependency and anxiety are getting in your way? If you'd like to show up more compassionately for yourself and interact with the world from a place of authenticity, I invite you to begin a new knowing of you! I believe in the transformative power of compassion, attunement, and repair. When Another holds space for implicit memory and emotional states held in our nervous systems, we access and heal relational wounds that created "others- focused" patterns. We gain respect for our needs and boundaries. Valuing curiosity over judgement, we repair our felt sense of safety, agency, and sturdiness.
(419) 863-2461 View (419) 863-2461
Photo of Ellen J Anderson, PhD, LPCC-S, Counselor
Ellen J Anderson
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43611
I work from a trauma model, using EMDR to help people heal the pain of adverse childhood experiences.
I see many people who feel their lives are out of control. I know that they have been deeply wounded and need gentle treatment. I'm ready to help you through the battlefield of trauma, frightening experiences, broken trust, and self-loathing that have altered how you view the world, how you approach other people, and how you feel about yourself. Healing is hard work, but is well worth the struggle. However, you should not have to do it alone. Take the first step and seek help, from someone. It shouldn't have to be this hard. Please call our office at 419-874-3201 to find out if we can help you.
I work from a trauma model, using EMDR to help people heal the pain of adverse childhood experiences.
I see many people who feel their lives are out of control. I know that they have been deeply wounded and need gentle treatment. I'm ready to help you through the battlefield of trauma, frightening experiences, broken trust, and self-loathing that have altered how you view the world, how you approach other people, and how you feel about yourself. Healing is hard work, but is well worth the struggle. However, you should not have to do it alone. Take the first step and seek help, from someone. It shouldn't have to be this hard. Please call our office at 419-874-3201 to find out if we can help you.
(419) 318-0831 View (419) 318-0831
Photo of Erica Jane Porter, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erica Jane Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43623
I am now offering EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to assist in treating trauma. I also utilize evidence-based therapy services including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Substance Use therapy, Trauma Specific Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, and more . Each treatment is tailored to fit the needs of individual clients. I meet clients where they are at in life and together we create achievable goals to work towards. I am dedicated to easing the pain of others in hopes they can live their life to their fullest potential. Please reach out via email or call 513-223-3528 to schedule today!
I am now offering EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to assist in treating trauma. I also utilize evidence-based therapy services including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Substance Use therapy, Trauma Specific Treatment, Motivational Interviewing, and more . Each treatment is tailored to fit the needs of individual clients. I meet clients where they are at in life and together we create achievable goals to work towards. I am dedicated to easing the pain of others in hopes they can live their life to their fullest potential. Please reach out via email or call 513-223-3528 to schedule today!
(419) 406-4541 View (419) 406-4541
Photo of Royann Johnson Ttp Counseling Llc, MS LPCC, LPC, ACS, CEAP, SAP
Royann Johnson Ttp Counseling Llc
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS LPCC, LPC, ACS, CEAP, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Toledo, OH 43610  (Online Only)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) is a therapeutic approach that resolves distressing emotions that impair life functioning.
Do you want sustainable personal growth in life? I work with adults and children alike. I offer in Individual, family/couples therapy, trauma has applications in hospital, private, court, and other community settings. I am eager to support you to manifest the sustainable change you are seeking for your future. I use specialized modalities like EMDR for trauma, IFS, CBT, PCIT, (Parent Child Interaction Therapy) to increase parenting skills, and Solution Focused interventions. I am here for your journey, your change, and your progress! I am a certified special education advocate, as well as DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) is a therapeutic approach that resolves distressing emotions that impair life functioning.
Do you want sustainable personal growth in life? I work with adults and children alike. I offer in Individual, family/couples therapy, trauma has applications in hospital, private, court, and other community settings. I am eager to support you to manifest the sustainable change you are seeking for your future. I use specialized modalities like EMDR for trauma, IFS, CBT, PCIT, (Parent Child Interaction Therapy) to increase parenting skills, and Solution Focused interventions. I am here for your journey, your change, and your progress! I am a certified special education advocate, as well as DOT Substance Abuse Professional.
(567) 278-9289 View (567) 278-9289
Photo of Dr. Derek J. Lee, PhD, CRC, LPCC-S, DBTC, Counselor
Dr. Derek J. Lee
Counselor, PhD, CRC, LPCC-S, DBTC
Verified Verified
Rossford, OH 43460
We also have providers offering CBT, PCIT, EMDR, Gottman Couples, play therapy, and other models of treatment.
We have a full staff at Perrysburg Counseling offering decades of experience with a variety of issues and populations. Although my specialty is working with children and teens striving to manage a variety of issues in the areas of anxiety and depression, additional issues include anxiety and depression, self-esteem, trauma, behavioral issues, grief and loss and self-harm and suicide. We work with populations that include children, teens, adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and couples. Our goal is to help you learn how to manage these challenges, overcome obstacles, and be successful in anything you choose to do.
We also have providers offering CBT, PCIT, EMDR, Gottman Couples, play therapy, and other models of treatment.
We have a full staff at Perrysburg Counseling offering decades of experience with a variety of issues and populations. Although my specialty is working with children and teens striving to manage a variety of issues in the areas of anxiety and depression, additional issues include anxiety and depression, self-esteem, trauma, behavioral issues, grief and loss and self-harm and suicide. We work with populations that include children, teens, adults, the LGBTQ+ community, and couples. Our goal is to help you learn how to manage these challenges, overcome obstacles, and be successful in anything you choose to do.
(419) 318-1435 View (419) 318-1435
Photo of Dana Michelle Neiding, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dana Michelle Neiding
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Toledo, OH 43623
Dana is Somatic Attachment Focused EMDR trained to treat individuals who are struggling with trauma or significant, persistant life stressors.
Are feelings of anxiety and depression impacting your life and your well-being? Have life stressors impacted your personal relationships or ability to enjoy all that your life has to offer? Counseling can help you feel better, and there is hope to find the peace and growth that you are looking for. Dana is guided by the belief that successful therapeutic relationships are created with purpose, provide opportunities for deep healing, and can be faith-based or spiritual in nature. In Dana’s office, you will find acceptance, respect, and compassion to meet you where you are at each visit.
Dana is Somatic Attachment Focused EMDR trained to treat individuals who are struggling with trauma or significant, persistant life stressors.
Are feelings of anxiety and depression impacting your life and your well-being? Have life stressors impacted your personal relationships or ability to enjoy all that your life has to offer? Counseling can help you feel better, and there is hope to find the peace and growth that you are looking for. Dana is guided by the belief that successful therapeutic relationships are created with purpose, provide opportunities for deep healing, and can be faith-based or spiritual in nature. In Dana’s office, you will find acceptance, respect, and compassion to meet you where you are at each visit.
(419) 871-4438 x2 View (419) 871-4438 x2

See more therapy options for Oregon

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.