EMDR Therapists in Happy Valley, OR

Photo of Brooke Caouette, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brooke Caouette
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97015
I have an eclectic style, utilize EMDR, and tailor each session to your needs and goals.
Trust that gut instinct that’s telling you something has to change and that healing is attainable. You don't have to fix yourself, figure it all out, or change on your own. If you've found yourself constantly pushing forward only to find that anxiety, exhaustion, depression, or loneliness persist and you have yet to find a relationship, substance, life change, or feeling of control that can make it better in any lasting way- it's time to for things to get better. Whether you are struggling with general fatigue from the state of our world or your past experiences have completely caught up to you, I’m here to help.
I have an eclectic style, utilize EMDR, and tailor each session to your needs and goals.
Trust that gut instinct that’s telling you something has to change and that healing is attainable. You don't have to fix yourself, figure it all out, or change on your own. If you've found yourself constantly pushing forward only to find that anxiety, exhaustion, depression, or loneliness persist and you have yet to find a relationship, substance, life change, or feeling of control that can make it better in any lasting way- it's time to for things to get better. Whether you are struggling with general fatigue from the state of our world or your past experiences have completely caught up to you, I’m here to help.
(503) 832-5751 View (503) 832-5751
Photo of Angela Caiazza, MS,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Caiazza
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97086
Angela believes in an eclectic approach depending on specific and unique circumstances of each client. The majority of her work tends to utilize the Gottman method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral interventions, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) as well as other systemic frameworks which include developmental experiences and interactions within relationships. In her spare time, Angela enjoys writing, nature, fitness, drums, and Harley Davidsons.
Angela believes in an eclectic approach depending on specific and unique circumstances of each client. The majority of her work tends to utilize the Gottman method, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral interventions, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) as well as other systemic frameworks which include developmental experiences and interactions within relationships. In her spare time, Angela enjoys writing, nature, fitness, drums, and Harley Davidsons.
(833) 996-1403 View (833) 996-1403
Photo of Margie A Polmateer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Margie A Polmateer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97086
When working with my clients, I implement a selective combination of techniques from narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, EMDR, and motivational interviewing together with a strengths-based approach.
Accepting new clients at both locations. Sometimes, life's challenges can feel overwhelming and can begin to feel like too much to manage alone. The impact of one's past or current stressors can be difficult and complicated. If you are struggling or are feeling overwhelmed and in need of support, you are not alone. I am here to listen and help build on your strengths to support you towards feeling more in control of your life.
When working with my clients, I implement a selective combination of techniques from narrative therapy, solution-focused therapy, EMDR, and motivational interviewing together with a strengths-based approach.
Accepting new clients at both locations. Sometimes, life's challenges can feel overwhelming and can begin to feel like too much to manage alone. The impact of one's past or current stressors can be difficult and complicated. If you are struggling or are feeling overwhelmed and in need of support, you are not alone. I am here to listen and help build on your strengths to support you towards feeling more in control of your life.
(971) 306-5222 View (971) 306-5222
Photo of Dr. Sandra G. Stubbs, LPC, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Sandra G. Stubbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97086  (Online Only)
As a Doctor of Psychology focusing on Human Behavior, I implement the integrative approach to therapy inclusive with Exposure Response Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Spiritual Integration, and EMDR interchangeably.
I have worked in the field of Christian ministry, pastoral counsel, workshop facilitation, coaching and governmental law for over twenty years. In 2011, I returned to school to complete a graduate program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Subsequently, I opened the iFS Center in the Eugene community in 2007. The iFS Center is comprised of interactive coaches and therapists that offer a broad scope of services. We provide integrative, solution-focused therapy for adults that have been affected by behavioral issues, life adjustments, grief and loss, anxieties, relationship issues, OCD, PTSD, depression, and more.
As a Doctor of Psychology focusing on Human Behavior, I implement the integrative approach to therapy inclusive with Exposure Response Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Spiritual Integration, and EMDR interchangeably.
I have worked in the field of Christian ministry, pastoral counsel, workshop facilitation, coaching and governmental law for over twenty years. In 2011, I returned to school to complete a graduate program in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Subsequently, I opened the iFS Center in the Eugene community in 2007. The iFS Center is comprised of interactive coaches and therapists that offer a broad scope of services. We provide integrative, solution-focused therapy for adults that have been affected by behavioral issues, life adjustments, grief and loss, anxieties, relationship issues, OCD, PTSD, depression, and more.
(503) 437-9572 View (503) 437-9572
Photo of Gina Worley Individual And Couples Therapist, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gina Worley Individual And Couples Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97015
Waitlist for new clients
I have experience helping couples recover from infidelity and navigating healing through EMDR and other trauma-focused work.
Have you been feeling stuck in your relationships or old memories and experiences you thought you were over? Anxiety, depression and feeling overwhelmed can keep us from being present in our everyday lives. How about communication with those you are close to? Do you avoid hot topics for fear it will lead to another fight? Has infidelity created painful wounds? These are common issues that many people struggle with and yet there are solutions to these difficulties even if you have had the same argument for 30 years. Let me help you navigate a new way with your partner, your family, your co-workers.
I have experience helping couples recover from infidelity and navigating healing through EMDR and other trauma-focused work.
Have you been feeling stuck in your relationships or old memories and experiences you thought you were over? Anxiety, depression and feeling overwhelmed can keep us from being present in our everyday lives. How about communication with those you are close to? Do you avoid hot topics for fear it will lead to another fight? Has infidelity created painful wounds? These are common issues that many people struggle with and yet there are solutions to these difficulties even if you have had the same argument for 30 years. Let me help you navigate a new way with your partner, your family, your co-workers.
(503) 343-9346 View (503) 343-9346
Photo of Haleigh Yurecko, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haleigh Yurecko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97086
Waitlist for new clients
I can provide EMDR and animal assisted therapy with my dogs.
I have a passion working with youth and young adults, especially those that identify as LGBTQ+ so clients within these categories would be my ideal client. I have availability for clients ages 12 through 29. I want to help clients work through depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress, gender dysphoria, identity confusion, and trauma to improve their lives. I would love to help you make progress on your life goals and reduce the impact that your mental health has on your life.
I can provide EMDR and animal assisted therapy with my dogs.
I have a passion working with youth and young adults, especially those that identify as LGBTQ+ so clients within these categories would be my ideal client. I have availability for clients ages 12 through 29. I want to help clients work through depression, anxiety, relationship difficulties, stress, gender dysphoria, identity confusion, and trauma to improve their lives. I would love to help you make progress on your life goals and reduce the impact that your mental health has on your life.
(971) 385-5852 View (971) 385-5852
Photo of Mai Bao Xiong, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mai Bao Xiong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97086  (Online Only)
I am a certified EMDR therapist.
Are you overwhelmed with navigating pressures from family, culture and society? Is it hard to find someone who can understand the intersections of your identity and life experiences? My BIPOC clients often tell me about the emotional fatigue of trying to find a provider who can understand their complex narratives. They want tools that respect their heritage and cultural wisdom. If you see yourself in any of these struggles, I invite you to schedule a free consultation with me to reclaim and rewrite your story.
I am a certified EMDR therapist.
Are you overwhelmed with navigating pressures from family, culture and society? Is it hard to find someone who can understand the intersections of your identity and life experiences? My BIPOC clients often tell me about the emotional fatigue of trying to find a provider who can understand their complex narratives. They want tools that respect their heritage and cultural wisdom. If you see yourself in any of these struggles, I invite you to schedule a free consultation with me to reclaim and rewrite your story.
(651) 419-4841 View (651) 419-4841
Photo of Kristen Strother, LCSW, CHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Strother
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97086  (Online Only)
I have availability for new clients (updated September 2024)! Are you tired of feeling anxious or stressed, and instead really want to enjoy your life and feel energized and motivated? Looking for coping skills for emotions and life stressors? Are you overwhelmed and struggling to find balance in your life? Do you find that your important relationships are strained, or non-existent? Do you want to get your life organized so that you have time for the things that matter to you? My focus is on helping individuals achieve whole health and balance-physically, emotionally, spiritually and relationally.
I have availability for new clients (updated September 2024)! Are you tired of feeling anxious or stressed, and instead really want to enjoy your life and feel energized and motivated? Looking for coping skills for emotions and life stressors? Are you overwhelmed and struggling to find balance in your life? Do you find that your important relationships are strained, or non-existent? Do you want to get your life organized so that you have time for the things that matter to you? My focus is on helping individuals achieve whole health and balance-physically, emotionally, spiritually and relationally.
(971) 247-9636 View (971) 247-9636
Photo of Amelia E Mackle - Elevated Mind and Movement, MSEd, LPC, RYT, CIMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elevated Mind and Movement
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, RYT, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97086  (Online Only)
Do you feel like your life is on a constant cycle of wake up, do the things, go to bed, repeat? Has this left you feeling like you aren't really living your life to the fullest? Do you worry that there is something that you are missing about how to really feel alive? Have you felt like you are "just going through the motions"? Have you tried counseling before and did not feel like it was as helpful as you hoped it would be? I understand. I see mental health differently. I want to help people feel like they are really living their lives to their fullest potential, not just solving some symptoms.
Do you feel like your life is on a constant cycle of wake up, do the things, go to bed, repeat? Has this left you feeling like you aren't really living your life to the fullest? Do you worry that there is something that you are missing about how to really feel alive? Have you felt like you are "just going through the motions"? Have you tried counseling before and did not feel like it was as helpful as you hoped it would be? I understand. I see mental health differently. I want to help people feel like they are really living their lives to their fullest potential, not just solving some symptoms.
(971) 298-9031 View (971) 298-9031
Photo of Ellen Eberhardt - Co-occurring Therapy LLC with Ellen Eberhardt LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Co-occurring Therapy LLC with Ellen Eberhardt LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97086  (Online Only)
My name is Ellen Eberhardt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). For 16 years I have been a therapist. I provide a non-judgement and safe place to heal and grow as each client is unique.
My name is Ellen Eberhardt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). For 16 years I have been a therapist. I provide a non-judgement and safe place to heal and grow as each client is unique.
(503) 832-5109 View (503) 832-5109
Photo of Joann Lundberg, MA , LPC , ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joann Lundberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC , ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97086
Is your child experiencing behavioral problems that interfere with school, family, or friendships? Is your teen distant, defiant or have mood swings? While facing challenges in childhood is a normal part of growing up, sometimes kids need additional help learning the skills needed to navigate big feelings, worries, upsetting and confusing events and the stressors of modern life. I offer kids an opportunity to learn and practice new skills, a safe space to explore big feelings and can help them learn to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a helpful way using creative, and fun approaches and evidence based practices
Is your child experiencing behavioral problems that interfere with school, family, or friendships? Is your teen distant, defiant or have mood swings? While facing challenges in childhood is a normal part of growing up, sometimes kids need additional help learning the skills needed to navigate big feelings, worries, upsetting and confusing events and the stressors of modern life. I offer kids an opportunity to learn and practice new skills, a safe space to explore big feelings and can help them learn to communicate their thoughts, feelings, and emotions in a helpful way using creative, and fun approaches and evidence based practices
(971) 308-5321 View (971) 308-5321
Photo of Jane Leng, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Leng
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97086  (Online Only)
As a trauma therapist, I specialize in working with adults who suffer from the symptoms of traumatic stress or post traumatic stress disorder. The symptoms of trauma often include, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, nightmares and flashbacks, lack of concentration, ADD, binge eating and negative body image. All of these symptoms may be a result of unprocessed trauma that has become stuck in the mind and the body. There is a tremendous amount of promise in mental health healing available through trauma treatment.
As a trauma therapist, I specialize in working with adults who suffer from the symptoms of traumatic stress or post traumatic stress disorder. The symptoms of trauma often include, panic attacks, anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, nightmares and flashbacks, lack of concentration, ADD, binge eating and negative body image. All of these symptoms may be a result of unprocessed trauma that has become stuck in the mind and the body. There is a tremendous amount of promise in mental health healing available through trauma treatment.
(503) 782-9069 View (503) 782-9069
Photo of Jorge Correa - Quantum Wellness, PhD, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Quantum Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97015  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a former Navy medic who completed three tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Dr. Correa, has a deep understanding of the impact that trauma, depression & anxiety can have on a person's mental health. He knows firsthand the struggles that client’s can face, and he brings that knowledge and experience to his work as a therapist. Dr. Correa’s experiences in the military have given him a unique perspective on mental health, which he uses to help clients overcome a wide range of challenges. Whether it's trauma from past experiences, depression and anxiety, or the difficulties of adjusting to new changes in life.
As a former Navy medic who completed three tours in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Dr. Correa, has a deep understanding of the impact that trauma, depression & anxiety can have on a person's mental health. He knows firsthand the struggles that client’s can face, and he brings that knowledge and experience to his work as a therapist. Dr. Correa’s experiences in the military have given him a unique perspective on mental health, which he uses to help clients overcome a wide range of challenges. Whether it's trauma from past experiences, depression and anxiety, or the difficulties of adjusting to new changes in life.
(541) 366-4807 View (541) 366-4807
Photo of Dr. Jessica Moran, LMFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jessica Moran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97015
You are successful. Others often make comments about how "perfect your life is" because from the outside they see someone with a perfect marriage, great kids, and a wonderful job. But on the inside you feel anything but perfect. You are struggling to keep your head above water, you haven't felt connected to your spouse in months, sex has disappeared and you no longer have the energy to even try to initiate intimacy. You're frustrated with most or all areas of your life and feel like you have no one to turn to that will understand.
You are successful. Others often make comments about how "perfect your life is" because from the outside they see someone with a perfect marriage, great kids, and a wonderful job. But on the inside you feel anything but perfect. You are struggling to keep your head above water, you haven't felt connected to your spouse in months, sex has disappeared and you no longer have the energy to even try to initiate intimacy. You're frustrated with most or all areas of your life and feel like you have no one to turn to that will understand.
(971) 351-0738 View (971) 351-0738
Photo of Cary Lazara Coll, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cary Lazara Coll
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97086
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
Empowerment comes from being open to exploring your inner strength as a means of gaining insight and knowledge. I strive to provide a safe, nonjudgmental, compassionate space for self-discovery. Through the Empowerment Model I use an eclectic, client centered, and strength based approach to finding healing and growth in the midst of challenges. By exploring the origin of symptoms and how they influence thoughts and behaviors we can overcome obstacles to feeling genuine health and wellness.
(971) 351-0347 View (971) 351-0347
Photo of Jeffrey Meuser, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeffrey Meuser
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Happy Valley, OR 97015
Sometimes we struggle to make sense of what is happening around us. Sometimes we need help to get through these hard times. In these tough times, we may battle depression, anxiety, connection with others, or addictions. My goal is to help you understand your story and help you make sense of what you have learned and become more insightful, confident, and successful in life, therefore making the change you would like to see in your life. I help people work through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and addictions which usually stem from events or traumas.
Sometimes we struggle to make sense of what is happening around us. Sometimes we need help to get through these hard times. In these tough times, we may battle depression, anxiety, connection with others, or addictions. My goal is to help you understand your story and help you make sense of what you have learned and become more insightful, confident, and successful in life, therefore making the change you would like to see in your life. I help people work through relationship issues, anxiety, depression, ADHD, and addictions which usually stem from events or traumas.
(971) 407-1044 View (971) 407-1044
Photo of Stacie C Larson - Inner Strength Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Inner Strength Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97086
Not accepting new clients
We all have the strength within to heal with help. Starting therapy can be a scary process and you have taken the first and often hardest step. We can work together towards finding the best you. My approach is goal-oriented and focuses on how we can get you feeling better now. I utilize trauma and somatic therapeutic techniques including Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma focused CBT, DBT and EMDR. I will help you identify the areas you want to work on and we will make a plan together to make this happen.
We all have the strength within to heal with help. Starting therapy can be a scary process and you have taken the first and often hardest step. We can work together towards finding the best you. My approach is goal-oriented and focuses on how we can get you feeling better now. I utilize trauma and somatic therapeutic techniques including Internal Family Systems (IFS), trauma focused CBT, DBT and EMDR. I will help you identify the areas you want to work on and we will make a plan together to make this happen.
(971) 601-3009 View (971) 601-3009
Photo of Casadi 'khaki' Marino, PhD, LCSW, CADCIII, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Casadi 'khaki' Marino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CADCIII
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Happy Valley, OR 97086
Not accepting new clients
Therapeutic approaches I use include CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), EMDR, and Play Therapy.
Do you need to be heard in a non-judgmental manner? Have you been hurt or disrespected? Are you struggling in a relationship or moving through grief or loss? Are you anxious, depressed, or uncertain? Do you care for a child who has experienced "big hurts," overwhelming emotions, or been challenged to cope? We are all doing the best we can. It takes courage to seek help. I hope to explore your story, concerns, and life goals. I see adults and children ages 3-12 and their caregivers. In addition I have lived experience with autoimmune conditions and can offer an empathetic perspective to those who experience such challenges.
Therapeutic approaches I use include CBT, Trauma-Focused CBT (TF-CBT), EMDR, and Play Therapy.
Do you need to be heard in a non-judgmental manner? Have you been hurt or disrespected? Are you struggling in a relationship or moving through grief or loss? Are you anxious, depressed, or uncertain? Do you care for a child who has experienced "big hurts," overwhelming emotions, or been challenged to cope? We are all doing the best we can. It takes courage to seek help. I hope to explore your story, concerns, and life goals. I see adults and children ages 3-12 and their caregivers. In addition I have lived experience with autoimmune conditions and can offer an empathetic perspective to those who experience such challenges.
(971) 306-4976 View (971) 306-4976

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maureen Elizabeth Schrenk, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maureen Elizabeth Schrenk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clackamas, OR 97015  (Online Only)
My expertise includes EMDR and trauma recovery, which are proven approaches to process emotional pain, aid recovery, and resolve past trauma.
As a counselor at Barefoot and Balanced, I specialize in guiding individuals grappling with the impacts of trauma and PTSD, and I offer a free consultation to help you start your healing journey. Together, we will explore mindfulness techniques to manage distress, enhance resilience, and foster a renewed sense of control and well-being. You deserve a life marked not by past pain, but by your courage to move forward.
My expertise includes EMDR and trauma recovery, which are proven approaches to process emotional pain, aid recovery, and resolve past trauma.
As a counselor at Barefoot and Balanced, I specialize in guiding individuals grappling with the impacts of trauma and PTSD, and I offer a free consultation to help you start your healing journey. Together, we will explore mindfulness techniques to manage distress, enhance resilience, and foster a renewed sense of control and well-being. You deserve a life marked not by past pain, but by your courage to move forward.
(503) 468-4440 View (503) 468-4440
Photo of Kelly Grace, MA, MDiv, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Grace
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Beaverton, OR 97007
My specialties include anxiety and trauma, conflicted couples, perinatal hardship, EMDR, & working through issues with spirituality.
*Limited openings on a case-by-case situation.* Support is how we do well. We all need someone in our corner with compassion, solidarity, and hope. I can be that for you and your relationship. I support individuals and couples navigating through life's traumas, transitions, and stress. You may be feeling overwhelmed or stuck, but also motivated to work towards a breakthrough. If you've been carrying tension, grief, conflict, or emotional pain, let's start to work things out. Together we'll look at practical strategies to utilize your strengths, change unhealthy patterns, and grow your resiliency.
My specialties include anxiety and trauma, conflicted couples, perinatal hardship, EMDR, & working through issues with spirituality.
*Limited openings on a case-by-case situation.* Support is how we do well. We all need someone in our corner with compassion, solidarity, and hope. I can be that for you and your relationship. I support individuals and couples navigating through life's traumas, transitions, and stress. You may be feeling overwhelmed or stuck, but also motivated to work towards a breakthrough. If you've been carrying tension, grief, conflict, or emotional pain, let's start to work things out. Together we'll look at practical strategies to utilize your strengths, change unhealthy patterns, and grow your resiliency.
(503) 765-7712 View (503) 765-7712

See more therapy options for Happy Valley

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.