EMDR Therapists in Sylvania, OH

Photo of Breanna DeSandro, LPCC, CTRS, Counselor
Breanna DeSandro
Counselor, LPCC, CTRS
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR trained and currently working towards certification.
Hello! I am honored to be a part of your healing journey. I recognize this takes a leap of faith and courage to venture out onto this path. However, I am committed to providing a warm, genuine, honest, and safe atmosphere, to foster vulnerability and healing. I believe all human beings have inherent worth, thus I am passionate about helping you recognize your worth and developing the ability to embrace all the parts of yourself. My goal as a therapist is to empower you, develop emotional intelligence, and process through memories that keep you stuck and prevent you from living your best life.
I am EMDR trained and currently working towards certification.
Hello! I am honored to be a part of your healing journey. I recognize this takes a leap of faith and courage to venture out onto this path. However, I am committed to providing a warm, genuine, honest, and safe atmosphere, to foster vulnerability and healing. I believe all human beings have inherent worth, thus I am passionate about helping you recognize your worth and developing the ability to embrace all the parts of yourself. My goal as a therapist is to empower you, develop emotional intelligence, and process through memories that keep you stuck and prevent you from living your best life.
(419) 757-3920 View (419) 757-3920
Photo of Amy Koziarski - Amy Koziarski EMDR Intensives/Core Wellness, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Koziarski EMDR Intensives/Core Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560
At Core Wellness, our therapists are all trauma informed, most are trained in EMDR and are working on their EMDR certification.
Hello! Owner/Therapist at Core Wellness, Amy Koziarski, LISW-S has been in the mental health field since 2002 and is passionate about healing trauma. She has an open, active, therapeutic approach. In addition to offering 60 minute sessions, Amy also offers EMDR Intensives available in 2, 3 or 4 hour increments. Longer sessions are available with special scheduling. In order to continue her passion as a therapist, mentor/educator and to better meet the needs of the community Amy expanded her practice to Core Wellness in 2022. Core Wellness has several therapists available for you, offering day, evening and weekend availability.
At Core Wellness, our therapists are all trauma informed, most are trained in EMDR and are working on their EMDR certification.
Hello! Owner/Therapist at Core Wellness, Amy Koziarski, LISW-S has been in the mental health field since 2002 and is passionate about healing trauma. She has an open, active, therapeutic approach. In addition to offering 60 minute sessions, Amy also offers EMDR Intensives available in 2, 3 or 4 hour increments. Longer sessions are available with special scheduling. In order to continue her passion as a therapist, mentor/educator and to better meet the needs of the community Amy expanded her practice to Core Wellness in 2022. Core Wellness has several therapists available for you, offering day, evening and weekend availability.
(419) 506-5908 View (419) 506-5908
Photo of Allison Kuhr, MA, LPCC, R-DMT
Allison Kuhr
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, R-DMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor specializing in treating trauma. My other areas of clinical expertise include perinatal mental health (mental health needs that arise during and after pregnancy) and working with the LGBTQ+ population. I am certified in EMDR therapy and am also a registered dance/movement therapist.
I am a licensed professional clinical counselor specializing in treating trauma. My other areas of clinical expertise include perinatal mental health (mental health needs that arise during and after pregnancy) and working with the LGBTQ+ population. I am certified in EMDR therapy and am also a registered dance/movement therapist.
(419) 326-8045 View (419) 326-8045
Photo of Lorran Upchurch, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorran Upchurch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560
My niche is working with complex trauma and attachment using EMDR.
Depression, trauma, and uncontrollable fear/anxiety can wreak havoc on your life and make it challenging to even complete ordinary tasks. But, with a renewed perspective, problems solved, eliminated barriers, and hope I will help you identify and overcome the issues standing in your way. I offer a relaxing and safe environment where we will find a unique, personalized way to achieve your goals. I use a blend of techniques from various therapeutic approaches.
My niche is working with complex trauma and attachment using EMDR.
Depression, trauma, and uncontrollable fear/anxiety can wreak havoc on your life and make it challenging to even complete ordinary tasks. But, with a renewed perspective, problems solved, eliminated barriers, and hope I will help you identify and overcome the issues standing in your way. I offer a relaxing and safe environment where we will find a unique, personalized way to achieve your goals. I use a blend of techniques from various therapeutic approaches.
(419) 518-5272 View (419) 518-5272
Sandra Kay Cox
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LICDC
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I help people explore past traumatic experiences that could be at the root of their relationship issues, addiction, anxiety, depression or PTSD.
Being anxious and down can make us feel stuck causing us to miss out on the joys of life. Sometimes we end up holding grudges, isolating from others, being angry or anxious the majority of the time, and possibly using substances to cope.
As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I help people explore past traumatic experiences that could be at the root of their relationship issues, addiction, anxiety, depression or PTSD.
Being anxious and down can make us feel stuck causing us to miss out on the joys of life. Sometimes we end up holding grudges, isolating from others, being angry or anxious the majority of the time, and possibly using substances to cope.
(419) 670-6212 View (419) 670-6212
Jessica Oley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
As your therapist, I bring experience and specialized training in trauma-informed care and EMDR therapy.
Are you seeking a path to emotional well being and personal growth? Welcome to a journey in resilience crafted just for you. I believe in the transformative power of compassion, self determination, and repair. My approach creates a safe and supportive space for you to explore and heal from past wounds at your own pace. Together, we gently explore the impact of past traumas on your life while fostering resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment. Our goal is to help you reclaim your sense of safety, agency, and wholeness.
As your therapist, I bring experience and specialized training in trauma-informed care and EMDR therapy.
Are you seeking a path to emotional well being and personal growth? Welcome to a journey in resilience crafted just for you. I believe in the transformative power of compassion, self determination, and repair. My approach creates a safe and supportive space for you to explore and heal from past wounds at your own pace. Together, we gently explore the impact of past traumas on your life while fostering resilience, self-compassion, and empowerment. Our goal is to help you reclaim your sense of safety, agency, and wholeness.
(419) 863-2461 View (419) 863-2461
Photo of Kristin Harris, PhD, Psychologist
Kristin Harris
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
I specialize in using CBT to treat anxiety/panic attacks, self esteem issues, and depression as well as EMDR for trauma processing.
Do you look like you have it all together on the outside, but underneath are really struggling? Are you wrestling with anxiety and low self esteem? I specialize in working with people who identify as perfectionists & people pleasers as well as those wanting to heal from past traumas. As a therapist with 15 yrs of experience, I try my best to be relatable & down to earth, embrace real convos while using evidence-based practices. My passion lies in helping people live their best lives by breaking free from old programming. Come see me in my cozy office or from your own home via telehealth.
I specialize in using CBT to treat anxiety/panic attacks, self esteem issues, and depression as well as EMDR for trauma processing.
Do you look like you have it all together on the outside, but underneath are really struggling? Are you wrestling with anxiety and low self esteem? I specialize in working with people who identify as perfectionists & people pleasers as well as those wanting to heal from past traumas. As a therapist with 15 yrs of experience, I try my best to be relatable & down to earth, embrace real convos while using evidence-based practices. My passion lies in helping people live their best lives by breaking free from old programming. Come see me in my cozy office or from your own home via telehealth.
(419) 912-6180 View (419) 912-6180
Photo of Genevieve Livecchi, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Genevieve Livecchi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560
My primary therapeutic modalities are Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (RO DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hello! I am a licensed therapist with 6+ years of experience working with mental health and addiction recovery for older teens and adults. I believe that healing past wounds creates new foundations for growth. I prioritize progress over perfection and I believe direction is more important than speed. If you find that you have a difficult time with perfectionism, control, verbalizing your emotions or needs, vulnerability, relaxation without guilt, high expectations/pressure, and making connections with other people then I might be a good fit to walk with you through your journey.
My primary therapeutic modalities are Radically Open Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (RO DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hello! I am a licensed therapist with 6+ years of experience working with mental health and addiction recovery for older teens and adults. I believe that healing past wounds creates new foundations for growth. I prioritize progress over perfection and I believe direction is more important than speed. If you find that you have a difficult time with perfectionism, control, verbalizing your emotions or needs, vulnerability, relaxation without guilt, high expectations/pressure, and making connections with other people then I might be a good fit to walk with you through your journey.
(419) 670-7585 View (419) 670-7585
Photo of Amy Koziarski Emdr Intensives Trauma Therapy First Responders, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Koziarski Emdr Intensives Trauma Therapy First Responders
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
I am an EMDR/EMDR 2.0 therapist and Approved Consultant dedicated to helping you heal. Whether you're dealing with child loss, religious trauma, childhood maltreatment, sexual abuse, or other traumas I can help! First responders (ands many others) benefit from the 2.0 recent event protocol and the rapid healing it offers. Reach out to start your journey towards recovery through tailored hourly or intensive EMDR sessions. Let's work together to achieve the peace and resilience you deserve.
I am an EMDR/EMDR 2.0 therapist and Approved Consultant dedicated to helping you heal. Whether you're dealing with child loss, religious trauma, childhood maltreatment, sexual abuse, or other traumas I can help! First responders (ands many others) benefit from the 2.0 recent event protocol and the rapid healing it offers. Reach out to start your journey towards recovery through tailored hourly or intensive EMDR sessions. Let's work together to achieve the peace and resilience you deserve.
(419) 871-9632 View (419) 871-9632
Photo of Aisha Snyder, LPCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aisha Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560
Aisha provides EMDR therapy, which can help heal trauma, PTSD, panic, anxiety and a range of other symptoms.
“Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn’t you- all of the expectations, all of the beliefs- and becoming who you are.” -Rachel Naomi Remen. While life is often full of beauty, it also comes with uncertainties, challenges and at times, suffering. Aisha believes therapy is an empowering tool for anyone who may be struggling to navigate through life’s challenges, adjusting to present adversity or processing unhealed trauma. Regardless of the struggle you may be facing, Aisha seeks to promote a non-judgemental and relatable approach to assisting others in establishing autonomy.
Aisha provides EMDR therapy, which can help heal trauma, PTSD, panic, anxiety and a range of other symptoms.
“Healing may not be so much about getting better, as about letting go of everything that isn’t you- all of the expectations, all of the beliefs- and becoming who you are.” -Rachel Naomi Remen. While life is often full of beauty, it also comes with uncertainties, challenges and at times, suffering. Aisha believes therapy is an empowering tool for anyone who may be struggling to navigate through life’s challenges, adjusting to present adversity or processing unhealed trauma. Regardless of the struggle you may be facing, Aisha seeks to promote a non-judgemental and relatable approach to assisting others in establishing autonomy.
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Photo of Monica Jay - Monica Jay EMDR/Trauma Therapy & EMDR Consultation, MSW, LISWS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monica Jay EMDR/Trauma Therapy & EMDR Consultation
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISWS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560
Even if you've had unsuccessful attempts in therapy in the past, it can be possible to heal rapidly and permanently from the impacts of trauma, grief, anxiety or depression . I offer 2, 3, 4 hours or more of EMDR Intensive therapy. This approach is much more efficient and allows clients to heal at a better pace. Intensive treatment typically takes approximately 12-15 hours in total. I also offer hourly sessions. Therapy can be an intimidating experience and the decision to seek therapy, a brave step, let's make it the best experience possible for you so you can regain your self worth and live the life you were meant to live.
Even if you've had unsuccessful attempts in therapy in the past, it can be possible to heal rapidly and permanently from the impacts of trauma, grief, anxiety or depression . I offer 2, 3, 4 hours or more of EMDR Intensive therapy. This approach is much more efficient and allows clients to heal at a better pace. Intensive treatment typically takes approximately 12-15 hours in total. I also offer hourly sessions. Therapy can be an intimidating experience and the decision to seek therapy, a brave step, let's make it the best experience possible for you so you can regain your self worth and live the life you were meant to live.
(419) 318-1982 View (419) 318-1982
Photo of Joan Freeman, RN, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Joan Freeman
Counselor, RN, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
I am a certified EMDR therapist and Approved Consultant specializing in treating trauma and PTSD in children and adults.
As a child and family therapist I work with children, adolescents and adults conducting individual, couples, and family counseling for persons experiencing a wide range of issues-from transitions and losses (job loss, illness, divorce, death), relationship issues, depression, fears and anxiety, to trauma and PTSD. I approach the counseling relationship in an interactive and respectful manner by assisting you to find the solution that is best for you in a safe and trusting environment.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and Approved Consultant specializing in treating trauma and PTSD in children and adults.
As a child and family therapist I work with children, adolescents and adults conducting individual, couples, and family counseling for persons experiencing a wide range of issues-from transitions and losses (job loss, illness, divorce, death), relationship issues, depression, fears and anxiety, to trauma and PTSD. I approach the counseling relationship in an interactive and respectful manner by assisting you to find the solution that is best for you in a safe and trusting environment.
(419) 531-9494 View (419) 531-9494
Photo of Sara Whiteside, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Sara Whiteside
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560
I utilize a client centered approach in treatment, utilizing theories from mindfulness, trauma focused therapy, EMDR, and internal family systems.
Exploring our thoughts and emotions can be an intimidating journey, but I hope to provide you with a calming, understanding, and encouraging environment to make this experience as fulfilling as possible. Everyone around me inspires me, including my clients. As a clinician, I feel privileged to witness my clients journeys. I am motivated by others and the world around me and I let this positive energy direct me as a clinical mental health counselor. I draw from previous clinical experiences, which include working with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, and those struggling with significant trauma responses.
I utilize a client centered approach in treatment, utilizing theories from mindfulness, trauma focused therapy, EMDR, and internal family systems.
Exploring our thoughts and emotions can be an intimidating journey, but I hope to provide you with a calming, understanding, and encouraging environment to make this experience as fulfilling as possible. Everyone around me inspires me, including my clients. As a clinician, I feel privileged to witness my clients journeys. I am motivated by others and the world around me and I let this positive energy direct me as a clinical mental health counselor. I draw from previous clinical experiences, which include working with victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, and those struggling with significant trauma responses.
(419) 752-9392 View (419) 752-9392
Photo of Wendy Nathan - Wendy Nathan, LPCC-S & Wellness Coaching, MS, LPCC-S, Counselor
Wendy Nathan, LPCC-S & Wellness Coaching
Counselor, MS, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560
I have appointments available right now to see my well-trained, friendly, and empathic interns. I oversee all cases and I can work directly with you if you are interested in receiving EMDR therapy. We are able to provide you the personal care and expertise to work through your concerns. We specialize in anxiety and depression, as well as trauma, grief, relationship issues, reconciliation work, couples therapy, and the LGBTQAI+ community. We also run a support group for older transgender women. Our approach is unique and based on a blend of many theories that bring you the outcomes you desire to achieve. Give us a call!
I have appointments available right now to see my well-trained, friendly, and empathic interns. I oversee all cases and I can work directly with you if you are interested in receiving EMDR therapy. We are able to provide you the personal care and expertise to work through your concerns. We specialize in anxiety and depression, as well as trauma, grief, relationship issues, reconciliation work, couples therapy, and the LGBTQAI+ community. We also run a support group for older transgender women. Our approach is unique and based on a blend of many theories that bring you the outcomes you desire to achieve. Give us a call!
(419) 963-4759 View (419) 963-4759
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
2 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560  (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 Christina Hancock, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Hancock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
I am a clinical social worker with experience working with individuals, couples, and families, assisting people with many concerns including relationship challenges, improving communication skills, dealing with anxiety, depression, and grief. I also have experience working with sexual and domestic violence abusers and victims. I am certified in EMDR Therapy, Level I Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and have taken many trainings in IFS and DBT. I believe trauma is stored in the mind as well as the body. I believe it is important to use current resources and develop new resources to deal with the challenges that appear in our path.
I am a clinical social worker with experience working with individuals, couples, and families, assisting people with many concerns including relationship challenges, improving communication skills, dealing with anxiety, depression, and grief. I also have experience working with sexual and domestic violence abusers and victims. I am certified in EMDR Therapy, Level I Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and have taken many trainings in IFS and DBT. I believe trauma is stored in the mind as well as the body. I believe it is important to use current resources and develop new resources to deal with the challenges that appear in our path.
(419) 318-1469 View (419) 318-1469
Photo of Jennifer A Knapp And Associates, MA, LPCC, BC-DMT
Jennifer A Knapp And Associates
MA, LPCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
As an LPCC, I use traditional based counseling skills in the therapy process. With an added specialty as a Dance/Movement Therapist and EMDR Therapist, I believe this diverse set of skills allows clients to explore their needs and experiences. I work from a holistic approach that is person centered and I believe in the health of the whole person: body, mind, and spirit. I believe strongly in the importance of offering a safe space for healing and developing a healthy therapeutic alliance to help you achieve your goals. Life is difficult and overwhelming and we need someone to listen.
As an LPCC, I use traditional based counseling skills in the therapy process. With an added specialty as a Dance/Movement Therapist and EMDR Therapist, I believe this diverse set of skills allows clients to explore their needs and experiences. I work from a holistic approach that is person centered and I believe in the health of the whole person: body, mind, and spirit. I believe strongly in the importance of offering a safe space for healing and developing a healthy therapeutic alliance to help you achieve your goals. Life is difficult and overwhelming and we need someone to listen.
(419) 318-1496 View (419) 318-1496
Photo of Lacey Schroeder, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lacey Schroeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
I utilize an eclectic approach, specializing in EMDR and solution focused therapy.
Life can be demanding, stressful and overwhelming at times. Whether you are facing debilitating symptoms or looking for personal growth, I will tailor the treatment to your needs. While it’s true you can fix many of your problems independently, consider therapy to be another weapon in your arsenal of self-help tools.
I utilize an eclectic approach, specializing in EMDR and solution focused therapy.
Life can be demanding, stressful and overwhelming at times. Whether you are facing debilitating symptoms or looking for personal growth, I will tailor the treatment to your needs. While it’s true you can fix many of your problems independently, consider therapy to be another weapon in your arsenal of self-help tools.
(419) 273-6717 View (419) 273-6717
Photo of Joy Herrera, MSW, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joy Herrera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sylvania, OH 43560
As an EMDR-trained therapist, I specialize in therapy for women who are seeking deeper healing beyond conventional talk therapy.
Accepting New Clients! You want your life to be different. You’d love to be able to relax and just be present, but this restlessness inside your mind and body won’t allow you. You’ve attempted to “let it go” or “forgive and forget” the past. You’ve tried LOTS of coping mechanisms: journaling, deep breathing, prayer, meditation, self-help books, talk therapy. You know yourself well, and you know how to cope. But you don’t just want to cope through life or talk about what happened; you want to experience change!
As an EMDR-trained therapist, I specialize in therapy for women who are seeking deeper healing beyond conventional talk therapy.
Accepting New Clients! You want your life to be different. You’d love to be able to relax and just be present, but this restlessness inside your mind and body won’t allow you. You’ve attempted to “let it go” or “forgive and forget” the past. You’ve tried LOTS of coping mechanisms: journaling, deep breathing, prayer, meditation, self-help books, talk therapy. You know yourself well, and you know how to cope. But you don’t just want to cope through life or talk about what happened; you want to experience change!
(419) 406-4376 View (419) 406-4376
Photo of Andrea Leigh Bain-Frye, LPCC, MA, EMDR, MBA
Andrea Leigh Bain-Frye
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MA, EMDR, MBA
Verified Verified
Sylvania, OH 43560
My focus as a therapist is to assist you in personal healing and discovering your wholeness. Therapy is a process that allows us to reflect, discover, and grow. Often feelings of depression and anxiety, self-esteem and relationship issues, addiction and trauma can block us from feeling "ok", and fully integrated into the life we want. My training in EMDR, as well as IFS informed EMDR, TF-CBT, blended with a utilization of mindfulness principles and "parts work" serve to assist my clients in healing and growth. I am also certified in SSP, a non-invasive application of Polyvagal Theory,
My focus as a therapist is to assist you in personal healing and discovering your wholeness. Therapy is a process that allows us to reflect, discover, and grow. Often feelings of depression and anxiety, self-esteem and relationship issues, addiction and trauma can block us from feeling "ok", and fully integrated into the life we want. My training in EMDR, as well as IFS informed EMDR, TF-CBT, blended with a utilization of mindfulness principles and "parts work" serve to assist my clients in healing and growth. I am also certified in SSP, a non-invasive application of Polyvagal Theory,
(419) 491-0420 View (419) 491-0420
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EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.