EMDR Therapists in Tallmadge, OH

Photo of Robert Crook, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Robert Crook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
Tallmadge, OH 44278
For even more specialized circumstances involving trauma, I am trained in EMDR.
Most of us have been there: spinning our wheels trying to outrun our past, struggling to get out of bed and make it through the day, internally crippling under the weight of just so many thoughts and expectations, struggling to just feel like yourself from one day to the next. If you’re tired of fighting these battles alone, I want to help. As a mental health therapist, my goal is to help clients overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. My focus is on empowering the people I work with by focusing on your innate strengths and helping you grow the skills you need to heal.
For even more specialized circumstances involving trauma, I am trained in EMDR.
Most of us have been there: spinning our wheels trying to outrun our past, struggling to get out of bed and make it through the day, internally crippling under the weight of just so many thoughts and expectations, struggling to just feel like yourself from one day to the next. If you’re tired of fighting these battles alone, I want to help. As a mental health therapist, my goal is to help clients overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. My focus is on empowering the people I work with by focusing on your innate strengths and helping you grow the skills you need to heal.
(234) 259-6142 View (234) 259-6142
Photo of Christina T. Hoehn-Shackelford, MSEd, LPCC-S
Christina T. Hoehn-Shackelford
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tallmadge, OH 44278
I've been trained in EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for trauma.
Have you been struggling with anxiety and are unsure of how to manage it? Do you feel stressed in social situations or in public spaces? Are you tired of having nervous energy, unhelpful thoughts, and physical symptoms related to stress? Or are you dealing with relationship problems? Feeling as though you need to learn better communication skills and ways to deal with your partner? Or need to address past trauma or disturbing events/experiences? Or struggling with negative thinking and depression? Or simply life changes that you're struggling to adjust to? These are the areas that I specialize in. Together, let's change your life.
I've been trained in EMDR and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) for trauma.
Have you been struggling with anxiety and are unsure of how to manage it? Do you feel stressed in social situations or in public spaces? Are you tired of having nervous energy, unhelpful thoughts, and physical symptoms related to stress? Or are you dealing with relationship problems? Feeling as though you need to learn better communication skills and ways to deal with your partner? Or need to address past trauma or disturbing events/experiences? Or struggling with negative thinking and depression? Or simply life changes that you're struggling to adjust to? These are the areas that I specialize in. Together, let's change your life.
(216) 242-4617 View (216) 242-4617
Photo of Ryan Reneé Moore, MA Ed, LPCC-S, Counselor
Ryan Reneé Moore
Counselor, MA Ed, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallmadge, OH 44278
I am trauma-informed, EMDR trained, and certified in treating personality disorders.
I am an experienced therapist who is dedicated to working with adolescents through adults who are dealing with trauma, eating disorders, self-injury, mood disorders, and more. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Supervisor with a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling. I have been working in this field since 2012 (as an intern), 2014 licensed. I am located at a private practice, currently seeing clients in office and telehealth. I have a dog named Nova that is with me every day. He's very loving and learning to read emotions on his journey to being a therapy dog.
I am trauma-informed, EMDR trained, and certified in treating personality disorders.
I am an experienced therapist who is dedicated to working with adolescents through adults who are dealing with trauma, eating disorders, self-injury, mood disorders, and more. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, Supervisor with a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling. I have been working in this field since 2012 (as an intern), 2014 licensed. I am located at a private practice, currently seeing clients in office and telehealth. I have a dog named Nova that is with me every day. He's very loving and learning to read emotions on his journey to being a therapy dog.
(234) 409-4839 View (234) 409-4839
Photo of Marisa Cargill, PhD , MEd, LPCC-S, Counselor
Marisa Cargill
Counselor, PhD , MEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tallmadge, OH 44278  (Online Only)
“Optimism is the foundation of courage.” As a therapist, I strive to help clients find hope. The world may not always present us with rainbows and sunshine, and we must process and name the storms we endure. I knew I wanted to be a therapist when my family and I were enduring multiple storms and found value in having someone outside of my family to talk to about it all. I wanted to help others feel less alone, and to know that their thoughts/feelings/behaviors tied to the storm are likely pretty normal. It’s normal to feel stuck sometimes, and my hope is that our work in counseling lends to you feeling unstuck.
“Optimism is the foundation of courage.” As a therapist, I strive to help clients find hope. The world may not always present us with rainbows and sunshine, and we must process and name the storms we endure. I knew I wanted to be a therapist when my family and I were enduring multiple storms and found value in having someone outside of my family to talk to about it all. I wanted to help others feel less alone, and to know that their thoughts/feelings/behaviors tied to the storm are likely pretty normal. It’s normal to feel stuck sometimes, and my hope is that our work in counseling lends to you feeling unstuck.
(330) 443-0773 View (330) 443-0773
Transcend Mental Behavior Group, LLC
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, CDCA
Verified Verified
Tallmadge, OH 44278
Transcend Mental Behavior Group offers General as well as Substance Abuse Disorder Counseling Services to children, adolescents, and adults who need assistance with changing their lives. Transcend Mental Behavior Group have counselors that are specialized in mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that our patients are capable of change and that mental health and addictions are very treatable. We offer evidence-based therapeutic interventions and treatment modalities that are shown to be effective in life changes. We strongly believe that treatment works best when it is individually tailored.
Transcend Mental Behavior Group offers General as well as Substance Abuse Disorder Counseling Services to children, adolescents, and adults who need assistance with changing their lives. Transcend Mental Behavior Group have counselors that are specialized in mental health and substance use disorders. We believe that our patients are capable of change and that mental health and addictions are very treatable. We offer evidence-based therapeutic interventions and treatment modalities that are shown to be effective in life changes. We strongly believe that treatment works best when it is individually tailored.
(216) 716-2649 View (216) 716-2649

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ashley Farrish, MSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Farrish
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Akron, OH 44313
The interventions I offer are a mixture of talk therapy, emdr, expressive arts work, and skills work.
Life is difficult when you are stuck in the past. I would like to help you remove barriers that prevent you from living the life you desire and deserve. This includes processing past memories and negative beliefs about yourself that get in the way of feeling connected to yourself and others. I work with you to build a solid sense of who you are and investigate ways you feel empowered in your body. We also work on discovering what radical self care and coping skills look like for you and ultimately determine how you can have a life that is centered around what you truly value. And most importantly, increasing experiences of pleasure!
The interventions I offer are a mixture of talk therapy, emdr, expressive arts work, and skills work.
Life is difficult when you are stuck in the past. I would like to help you remove barriers that prevent you from living the life you desire and deserve. This includes processing past memories and negative beliefs about yourself that get in the way of feeling connected to yourself and others. I work with you to build a solid sense of who you are and investigate ways you feel empowered in your body. We also work on discovering what radical self care and coping skills look like for you and ultimately determine how you can have a life that is centered around what you truly value. And most importantly, increasing experiences of pleasure!
View
Photo of Kelly Harmon, LPCC, Counselor
Kelly Harmon
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Kent, OH 44242
I am certified in EMDR and have completed level 1 and 2 training in The Gottman Method.
My name is Kelly Harmon (she/her) and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I earned my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Kent State University. Throughout my work as a counselor, I have seen that many of my clients live a life of expectations, many of which can be harmful to both their physical and mental health. A person’s worth is often measured by what they can accomplish whether it be in work, school, as a parent, friend, or member of one’s family. In my work with clients, I have sought to help them prioritize their overall health and wellbeing.
I am certified in EMDR and have completed level 1 and 2 training in The Gottman Method.
My name is Kelly Harmon (she/her) and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I earned my master’s degree in clinical mental health counseling from Kent State University. Throughout my work as a counselor, I have seen that many of my clients live a life of expectations, many of which can be harmful to both their physical and mental health. A person’s worth is often measured by what they can accomplish whether it be in work, school, as a parent, friend, or member of one’s family. In my work with clients, I have sought to help them prioritize their overall health and wellbeing.
(234) 413-3384 View (234) 413-3384
Photo of Tomika West, LPCC
Tomika West
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44320  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and EFT, which have been transformative for many clients.
Are you struggling with trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions? You seek a compassionate, experienced therapist who can provide support during evenings and weekends. You want to feel empowered to change, develop new skills, and find peace of mind.
I am trained in EMDR and EFT, which have been transformative for many clients.
Are you struggling with trauma, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, or navigating life transitions? You seek a compassionate, experienced therapist who can provide support during evenings and weekends. You want to feel empowered to change, develop new skills, and find peace of mind.
(380) 214-2564 View (380) 214-2564
Photo of Ryan Witkowski, MA, LPCC-S, CAHPE, Counselor
Ryan Witkowski
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, CAHPE
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Akron, OH 44311
I am also EMDR-trained.
I can help if...A small voice in your head tells you that something big needs to change. If you are tired of your internal experience of your self not matching the person that you live as day-to-day. If you feel exhausted comparing yourself to others, wanting to live the way you see other people living, yet struggling to make consistent and meaningful change. I can help guide and be with you as you recover from the lies and loss of trauma. These traumas and emotional imprints so often derive from our family or origin, current and past intimate relationships and the slow grind of neglect, invalidation and feeling alone.
I am also EMDR-trained.
I can help if...A small voice in your head tells you that something big needs to change. If you are tired of your internal experience of your self not matching the person that you live as day-to-day. If you feel exhausted comparing yourself to others, wanting to live the way you see other people living, yet struggling to make consistent and meaningful change. I can help guide and be with you as you recover from the lies and loss of trauma. These traumas and emotional imprints so often derive from our family or origin, current and past intimate relationships and the slow grind of neglect, invalidation and feeling alone.
(440) 276-5736 View (440) 276-5736
Photo of Julia Robinson, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Akron, OH 44301  (Online Only)
I blend somatic mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and polyvagal theory.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by the past? Maybe you're grappling with anxiety, depression, burn-out, or sense of deep dissatisfaction. It also could be you’ve experienced trauma and are struggling to move forward. Either way, I’m here to help you uncover and heal those deep-seated wounds. I work with people who want to make real, lasting changes and see growth in all areas of their lives. If you're ready to explore the roots of what’s holding you back with curiosity and self-compassion, and take steps towards a more fulfilling life, let’s embark on this journey together.
I blend somatic mindfulness, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and polyvagal theory.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or weighed down by the past? Maybe you're grappling with anxiety, depression, burn-out, or sense of deep dissatisfaction. It also could be you’ve experienced trauma and are struggling to move forward. Either way, I’m here to help you uncover and heal those deep-seated wounds. I work with people who want to make real, lasting changes and see growth in all areas of their lives. If you're ready to explore the roots of what’s holding you back with curiosity and self-compassion, and take steps towards a more fulfilling life, let’s embark on this journey together.
(440) 664-3208 View (440) 664-3208
Photo of Mary Beth Stevens, MEd, LPCC, BCN, Counselor
Mary Beth Stevens
Counselor, MEd, LPCC, BCN
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223
Neurofeedback assists your nervous system to regulate itself in the right direction, as we dig deeper and root out long-standing patterns from the past with EMDR and IFS.
The human brain is shaped by experience. Sometimes those experiences can be overwhelming, leaving us at a loss for how to integrate them into the greater context of our lives. No matter how much we talk about it, we can often still feel stuck, sometimes even after years of talk therapy! Through a powerful combination of trauma-informed approaches, it is possible for these patterns to be reversed. I hold out tremendous hope for change because I have seen the power of the brain to heal from deep wounding.
Neurofeedback assists your nervous system to regulate itself in the right direction, as we dig deeper and root out long-standing patterns from the past with EMDR and IFS.
The human brain is shaped by experience. Sometimes those experiences can be overwhelming, leaving us at a loss for how to integrate them into the greater context of our lives. No matter how much we talk about it, we can often still feel stuck, sometimes even after years of talk therapy! Through a powerful combination of trauma-informed approaches, it is possible for these patterns to be reversed. I hold out tremendous hope for change because I have seen the power of the brain to heal from deep wounding.
(330) 302-2190 View (330) 302-2190
Photo of Carrie A. Singer - Northern Summit Counseling, MEd, LPCC, Counselor
Northern Summit Counseling
Counselor, MEd, LPCC
Verified Verified
Stow, OH 44224
My primary treatment methods are EMDR and Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Welcome to my profile! I have a Master's Degree in Community Counseling from Kent State University and I am a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor for the State of Ohio. I have been licensed since 2002 and am actively practicing the profession of clinical counseling. I have specialized experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults with the following emotional health concerns: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Depressive Disorders. I assist clients with managing the stress that results from a history of abuse, exposure to violence, accidents (i.e. motor vehicle), and the stress involved in managing chronic illnesses.
My primary treatment methods are EMDR and Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
Welcome to my profile! I have a Master's Degree in Community Counseling from Kent State University and I am a licensed Professional Clinical Counselor for the State of Ohio. I have been licensed since 2002 and am actively practicing the profession of clinical counseling. I have specialized experience in treating children, adolescents, and adults with the following emotional health concerns: Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Anxiety Disorders, and Depressive Disorders. I assist clients with managing the stress that results from a history of abuse, exposure to violence, accidents (i.e. motor vehicle), and the stress involved in managing chronic illnesses.
(440) 571-7730 View (440) 571-7730
Photo of Julia McDonald, LPC, Counselor
Julia McDonald
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Stow, OH 44224
I specialize in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocess Therapy) which has been shown through research to be one of the most effective treatments for trauma especially when traditional talk therapy did not help.
Have you witnessed or experienced a highly stressful or traumatic event that is affecting you in your day-to-day life? Was this event experienced during childhood? As an adult? Traumatic experiences can include infidelity, sexual/physical/psychological abuse, neglect as a child, sudden death of a loved one, or a serious accident or illness/medical procedure. You may notice being triggered by things that never caused stress for you in the past. I have extensive training and experience helping adults recover from the emotional responses to trauma including PTSD.
I specialize in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocess Therapy) which has been shown through research to be one of the most effective treatments for trauma especially when traditional talk therapy did not help.
Have you witnessed or experienced a highly stressful or traumatic event that is affecting you in your day-to-day life? Was this event experienced during childhood? As an adult? Traumatic experiences can include infidelity, sexual/physical/psychological abuse, neglect as a child, sudden death of a loved one, or a serious accident or illness/medical procedure. You may notice being triggered by things that never caused stress for you in the past. I have extensive training and experience helping adults recover from the emotional responses to trauma including PTSD.
(234) 803-9827 View (234) 803-9827
Photo of Liz Couts, LPCC-S, LPC, CCTP I, BC-TMH
Liz Couts
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S, LPC, CCTP I, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fairlawn, OH 44333  (Online Only)
I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR, and have experience with and utilize various modalities to assist clients.
I treat adults only, with a multitude of mental health concerns, but specialize in: trauma, post traumatic stress, depression/mood disorders, and various relationship issues. My approach is direct, interactive, warm and humorous, with evidence based practices. I pride myself on continuing to expand my education to be a well rounded and multi-faced practitioner. I aim to provide my clients with a safe space to grow, learn, and become the best version of themselves!
I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR, and have experience with and utilize various modalities to assist clients.
I treat adults only, with a multitude of mental health concerns, but specialize in: trauma, post traumatic stress, depression/mood disorders, and various relationship issues. My approach is direct, interactive, warm and humorous, with evidence based practices. I pride myself on continuing to expand my education to be a well rounded and multi-faced practitioner. I aim to provide my clients with a safe space to grow, learn, and become the best version of themselves!
(330) 510-2298 View (330) 510-2298
Photo of Megan Miranda - The Azalea Institute: Counseling & Wellness, PhD, LPCC-S, IMFT-S, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Azalea Institute: Counseling & Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPCC-S, IMFT-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221
I am a certified EMDR & Expressive Arts therapist, & trained in TF-CBT, play therapy & sand tray.
I am very passionate about my work with my clients. I use a humanistic and attachment-based approach with a systemic lens. I use a trauma-informed approach. I strive to assist my clients with reaching their goals through supportive reflection, insight building and expressive techniques. I see myself as a compass in a client's journey, assisting them reach their goal destination. I work well with a variety of personality types and presenting concerns, ranging from core attachment injuries to trauma to infidelity to anxiety & depression among others. I use a variety of techniques based on client fit.
I am a certified EMDR & Expressive Arts therapist, & trained in TF-CBT, play therapy & sand tray.
I am very passionate about my work with my clients. I use a humanistic and attachment-based approach with a systemic lens. I use a trauma-informed approach. I strive to assist my clients with reaching their goals through supportive reflection, insight building and expressive techniques. I see myself as a compass in a client's journey, assisting them reach their goal destination. I work well with a variety of personality types and presenting concerns, ranging from core attachment injuries to trauma to infidelity to anxiety & depression among others. I use a variety of techniques based on client fit.
(330) 915-3793 View (330) 915-3793
Photo of Judith A Jankowski, LPCC-S, LPAT, LICDC, CHT, INHC, Counselor
Judith A Jankowski
Counselor, LPCC-S, LPAT, LICDC, CHT, INHC
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44315
I specialize in integrative therapy, my approach is to address the individual holistically through both traditional talk therapy combined with art therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and EMDR. My specialties include: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, substance abuse/dependency and recovery. I believe the goals of therapy are to help to empower individuals to find healing and meaning in their lives.
I specialize in integrative therapy, my approach is to address the individual holistically through both traditional talk therapy combined with art therapy, hypnotherapy, mindfulness, and EMDR. My specialties include: anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, life transitions, substance abuse/dependency and recovery. I believe the goals of therapy are to help to empower individuals to find healing and meaning in their lives.
(216) 284-4374 View (216) 284-4374
Photo of Kelly Kromer, LPCC-S
Kelly Kromer
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Stow, OH 44224
My approach to therapy is rooted in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), complemented by mindfulness and positive psychology practices.
I specialize in empowering clients to navigate and overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress. My practice stands out because of its holistic, client-centered philosophy. I believe in creating a safe, intuitive space that fosters self-expression and goal achievement. Here, every session is tailored to meet your unique needs, with an emphasis on discovering the joy and freedom in your journey towards healing.
My approach to therapy is rooted in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), complemented by mindfulness and positive psychology practices.
I specialize in empowering clients to navigate and overcome challenges such as anxiety, depression, trauma, and stress. My practice stands out because of its holistic, client-centered philosophy. I believe in creating a safe, intuitive space that fosters self-expression and goal achievement. Here, every session is tailored to meet your unique needs, with an emphasis on discovering the joy and freedom in your journey towards healing.
(234) 405-3546 View (234) 405-3546
Photo of Jessica L Ham - Daisy Counseling LLC, LSW, MSW
Daisy Counseling LLC
Licensed Social Worker, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Akron, OH 44307  (Online Only)
Our key approach, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), retrains your brain to process traumatic experiences effectively.
Healing from trauma is possible, and you're not alone on this journey. At Daisy Counseling, we are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your journey toward healing and growth. We believe that every person has the potential to overcome challenges and live their best life. Our passion for the latest research and innovative tools means that we can offer you the most effective strategies tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will gently address the barriers that may be holding you back, fostering a sense of hope and possibility.
Our key approach, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), retrains your brain to process traumatic experiences effectively.
Healing from trauma is possible, and you're not alone on this journey. At Daisy Counseling, we are dedicated to creating a safe and supportive space where you can explore your journey toward healing and growth. We believe that every person has the potential to overcome challenges and live their best life. Our passion for the latest research and innovative tools means that we can offer you the most effective strategies tailored to your unique needs. Together, we will gently address the barriers that may be holding you back, fostering a sense of hope and possibility.
(330) 862-9141 View (330) 862-9141
Photo of Lindsey Conway, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Lindsey Conway
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221  (Online Only)
I am fully trained in EMDR Therapy and take a trauma informed approach to treatment.
One of the most important aspects of therapy is the quality of the therapeutic relationship. With each client, couple and family I hope to create an empathic and trusting relationship to enrich strengths and your authentic self.
I am fully trained in EMDR Therapy and take a trauma informed approach to treatment.
One of the most important aspects of therapy is the quality of the therapeutic relationship. With each client, couple and family I hope to create an empathic and trusting relationship to enrich strengths and your authentic self.
(234) 272-3202 View (234) 272-3202
Photo of Jacquelyn Bell, LPCC-S, Counselor
Jacquelyn Bell
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221  (Online Only)
I have been trained in EMDR and have been practicing this virtually since the pandemic.
Finding the right therapist is not always an easy task. My goal is to create a safe space by being an unbiased listener. We work together to understand your needs; building a trusting relationship. I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or adjustment-related concerns. Our work will vary based on the individual; there is no one size fits all. I utilize a holistic approach as mind, body, and spirit are the foundation of who we are. I believe what we eat and how we move has an impact on our thoughts and behaviors; taking care of our bodies can make a difference on how the mind works.
I have been trained in EMDR and have been practicing this virtually since the pandemic.
Finding the right therapist is not always an easy task. My goal is to create a safe space by being an unbiased listener. We work together to understand your needs; building a trusting relationship. I work with adults experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma, or adjustment-related concerns. Our work will vary based on the individual; there is no one size fits all. I utilize a holistic approach as mind, body, and spirit are the foundation of who we are. I believe what we eat and how we move has an impact on our thoughts and behaviors; taking care of our bodies can make a difference on how the mind works.
(440) 485-3834 View (440) 485-3834

See more therapy options for Tallmadge

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.