Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Lark Ryan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lark Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97232  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I've provided EMDR for over 25 years, and have become a Certified EMDR Practitioner.
Ready for change? We can choose to grow past the limitations that keep us stuck. In my practice I listen carefully to your dreams and fears, and work to release you from the wounds of the past, and resolve inner conflicts. I tailor therapy to each unique individual to help you reach your goals. My therapy style is warm, direct, compassionate, and collaborative. I foster the growth process through challenging old patterns and helping new possibilities emerge. My work is grounded in the mind-body connection and mindfulness.
I've provided EMDR for over 25 years, and have become a Certified EMDR Practitioner.
Ready for change? We can choose to grow past the limitations that keep us stuck. In my practice I listen carefully to your dreams and fears, and work to release you from the wounds of the past, and resolve inner conflicts. I tailor therapy to each unique individual to help you reach your goals. My therapy style is warm, direct, compassionate, and collaborative. I foster the growth process through challenging old patterns and helping new possibilities emerge. My work is grounded in the mind-body connection and mindfulness.
(503) 461-7663 View (503) 461-7663
Photo of Greta Reitinger, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Greta Reitinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate a range of methods from mindfulness-based somatic work to EMDR for rapid desensitization of traumatic events.
I work with individual adults who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, uncertainty and interpersonal struggles. Some clients I work with seek a respectful, supportive helper outside their everyday life, sometimes during a life transition or existential choice point. Other clients I work with seek focused assistance with moving forward in a healthy way after a traumatic event (or traumatic childhood).
I incorporate a range of methods from mindfulness-based somatic work to EMDR for rapid desensitization of traumatic events.
I work with individual adults who suffer from anxiety, depression, trauma, uncertainty and interpersonal struggles. Some clients I work with seek a respectful, supportive helper outside their everyday life, sometimes during a life transition or existential choice point. Other clients I work with seek focused assistance with moving forward in a healthy way after a traumatic event (or traumatic childhood).
(503) 832-6173 View (503) 832-6173
Photo of Kathryn Hoover - EMDR Therapy in the City of Roses, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
EMDR Therapy in the City of Roses
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97204
I have obtained extensive advanced training in EMDR, dissociative disorders, early trauma, and somatic experiencing.
Space for new clients as of 11/5/24 Welcome! My name is Kathryn Hoover and my heart's work is connecting with people, holding space for their hurt, and empowering them to reach towards a connected, integrated life. My ideal client is someone who is curious about WHY troubling symptoms exist in the first place; someone who is ready to either step into therapy for the first time (hurrah!) or to step away from traditional talk therapy and begin deeper, more profound healing from the bottom up instead of the top down; someone who is wanting to feel more connected to themselves and others, and to feel more joy.
I have obtained extensive advanced training in EMDR, dissociative disorders, early trauma, and somatic experiencing.
Space for new clients as of 11/5/24 Welcome! My name is Kathryn Hoover and my heart's work is connecting with people, holding space for their hurt, and empowering them to reach towards a connected, integrated life. My ideal client is someone who is curious about WHY troubling symptoms exist in the first place; someone who is ready to either step into therapy for the first time (hurrah!) or to step away from traditional talk therapy and begin deeper, more profound healing from the bottom up instead of the top down; someone who is wanting to feel more connected to themselves and others, and to feel more joy.
(503) 406-6572 View (503) 406-6572
Photo of Robert C Woods, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert C Woods
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239
I have a practice that blends the evidence based therapies of DBT and EMDR with a soulful attention to our inner depths.
As an experienced therapist I work to create a warm, non-judgmental atmosphere for you to explore important issues in your life. Through a safe and compassionate environment we can address painful patterns that prevent you from living a fuller life and build positive inner resources that empower you to find more joy. The therapy relationship can provide solace and support in difficult times helping you to remember and access your own innate wisdom.
I have a practice that blends the evidence based therapies of DBT and EMDR with a soulful attention to our inner depths.
As an experienced therapist I work to create a warm, non-judgmental atmosphere for you to explore important issues in your life. Through a safe and compassionate environment we can address painful patterns that prevent you from living a fuller life and build positive inner resources that empower you to find more joy. The therapy relationship can provide solace and support in difficult times helping you to remember and access your own innate wisdom.
(503) 616-2235 View (503) 616-2235
Photo of Jennifer L. Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer L. Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
I use EMDR and DBT for more hands-on approaches when indicated.
People often seek out therapy when they are in relief of mental and emotional pain. I believe much of this pain is rooted in attachment failures in childhood which then branch out into how you see yourself, relate to others, etc. Ways you may have managed this pain no longer seem to be working. This crisis of sorts is an opportunity for deeper understanding, acceptance and transformation. Therapy can be a vehicle for achieving this. My areas of focus are: mood disorders, trauma, self-esteem, relational difficulties and life transitions. I tend to work well with clients who are open, curious and motivated for change.
I use EMDR and DBT for more hands-on approaches when indicated.
People often seek out therapy when they are in relief of mental and emotional pain. I believe much of this pain is rooted in attachment failures in childhood which then branch out into how you see yourself, relate to others, etc. Ways you may have managed this pain no longer seem to be working. This crisis of sorts is an opportunity for deeper understanding, acceptance and transformation. Therapy can be a vehicle for achieving this. My areas of focus are: mood disorders, trauma, self-esteem, relational difficulties and life transitions. I tend to work well with clients who are open, curious and motivated for change.
(443) 731-2030 View (443) 731-2030
Photo of Cameron Donley, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cameron Donley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I blend several different approaches in my work to help process trauma and unwind distressing patterns, including EMDR, somatic work, mindfulness, and internal family systems/parts work.
I work primarily with individuals in their late teens, 20s, and 30s (early adulthood/quarterlife) who are struggling to find their own unique path in life. I tend to be a good fit for those who: • Are feeling overwhelmed or dehumanized by modern life • Were raised in growth-limiting environments (judgmental family/religious systems, abusive/controlling parenting styles) • Were parentified as children • Are struggling with shame or anxiety • Have unresolved trauma • Are feeling confusion about what they want from their lives • Have more than one cultural identity • Are looking to feel more whole and live a more authentic existence
I blend several different approaches in my work to help process trauma and unwind distressing patterns, including EMDR, somatic work, mindfulness, and internal family systems/parts work.
I work primarily with individuals in their late teens, 20s, and 30s (early adulthood/quarterlife) who are struggling to find their own unique path in life. I tend to be a good fit for those who: • Are feeling overwhelmed or dehumanized by modern life • Were raised in growth-limiting environments (judgmental family/religious systems, abusive/controlling parenting styles) • Were parentified as children • Are struggling with shame or anxiety • Have unresolved trauma • Are feeling confusion about what they want from their lives • Have more than one cultural identity • Are looking to feel more whole and live a more authentic existence
(971) 351-2534 View (971) 351-2534
Photo of Revae Hackett, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Revae Hackett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97266  (Online Only)
I have advanced trainings in EMDR and Brainspotting.
Thanks for stopping by! I am here to support you wherever you are in your journey. Whether you are navigating life transitions, relationship distress, or seeking healing and healthier ways of coping after trauma or loss therapy can help. My goal is to support my clients in creating the change that will lead to living a more fulfilling life.
I have advanced trainings in EMDR and Brainspotting.
Thanks for stopping by! I am here to support you wherever you are in your journey. Whether you are navigating life transitions, relationship distress, or seeking healing and healthier ways of coping after trauma or loss therapy can help. My goal is to support my clients in creating the change that will lead to living a more fulfilling life.
(503) 854-0515 View (503) 854-0515
Photo of Ellie Antico, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ellie Antico
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate IFS, somatic modalities, EMDR, memory reconsolidation, boundary work, and contemplative mindfulness approaches to help my clients get to the root causes of their suffering.
I'm interested in you as whole person: mind, body and spirit. I know it takes courage to reveal ourselves so I hold space for all aspects of you with deep compassion. As a therapist I respect both your strength and vulnerability, offering a safe, nonjudgmental environment to express your truth, explore, and heal.
I integrate IFS, somatic modalities, EMDR, memory reconsolidation, boundary work, and contemplative mindfulness approaches to help my clients get to the root causes of their suffering.
I'm interested in you as whole person: mind, body and spirit. I know it takes courage to reveal ourselves so I hold space for all aspects of you with deep compassion. As a therapist I respect both your strength and vulnerability, offering a safe, nonjudgmental environment to express your truth, explore, and heal.
(833) 885-2803 View (833) 885-2803
Photo of Jordan Dobrovolny, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jordan Dobrovolny
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR, AEDP, and PACT.
Whether this is your first time seeking therapy or you are coming back to the work, finding a therapist you connect with is key. When you feel the right fit, it is amazing what is possible on the healing journey. Problems start to feel more manageable and creativity opens up, allowing you to lean in and work toward the change you want to see happen. I deeply value both humor and seriousness to the therapeutic relationship. I believe that we are all wired to move toward health; sometimes we need help and guidance along the way to clear out past trauma, anxiety, relationship problems, depression.
I am trained in EMDR, AEDP, and PACT.
Whether this is your first time seeking therapy or you are coming back to the work, finding a therapist you connect with is key. When you feel the right fit, it is amazing what is possible on the healing journey. Problems start to feel more manageable and creativity opens up, allowing you to lean in and work toward the change you want to see happen. I deeply value both humor and seriousness to the therapeutic relationship. I believe that we are all wired to move toward health; sometimes we need help and guidance along the way to clear out past trauma, anxiety, relationship problems, depression.
(503) 386-0139 View (503) 386-0139
Photo of Anne Horgan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Horgan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209
Waitlist for new clients
As appropriate, she incorporates modalities that include: EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, art and narrative therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, mindfulness and imagery/meditation, and discovery of mind-body connection.
Throughout her clinical professional experience, she has worked with individuals across the spectrum including (but not limited to) depressive disorders, anxiety and panic, PTSD, postpartum mental health, self-esteem/identity conflicts, psychosis, mania, adjustment issues, parenting, trauma, relationship conflicts and loss.
As appropriate, she incorporates modalities that include: EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, art and narrative therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, mindfulness and imagery/meditation, and discovery of mind-body connection.
Throughout her clinical professional experience, she has worked with individuals across the spectrum including (but not limited to) depressive disorders, anxiety and panic, PTSD, postpartum mental health, self-esteem/identity conflicts, psychosis, mania, adjustment issues, parenting, trauma, relationship conflicts and loss.
(503) 714-3390 View (503) 714-3390
Photo of Joyce Griffin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joyce Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97213  (Online Only)
EMDR can help sort this out and decrease PTSD symptoms and ultimately build a life worth living.
Trauma comes in many forms. It can be from childhood abuse, car accidents, toxic work environment, toxic relationship, racial injustice, war, rape, bullying, natural and manmade disasters like wildfires and earthquakes. You may have the symptoms of PTSD but not have explicit memories of the traumatizing experience. EMDR walks you through a series of steps to help decrease the symptoms of PTSD (nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, insomnia, avoidance and hopelessness about the future). It also helps to map out a plan to deal with future triggers and gives a renewed and positive belief system about the self. I offer a free consultation.
EMDR can help sort this out and decrease PTSD symptoms and ultimately build a life worth living.
Trauma comes in many forms. It can be from childhood abuse, car accidents, toxic work environment, toxic relationship, racial injustice, war, rape, bullying, natural and manmade disasters like wildfires and earthquakes. You may have the symptoms of PTSD but not have explicit memories of the traumatizing experience. EMDR walks you through a series of steps to help decrease the symptoms of PTSD (nightmares, flashbacks, anxiety, insomnia, avoidance and hopelessness about the future). It also helps to map out a plan to deal with future triggers and gives a renewed and positive belief system about the self. I offer a free consultation.
(510) 500-9760 View (510) 500-9760
Photo of Dominique Dallmayr, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dominique Dallmayr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212
I use a mix of skills from distress tolerance and emotional regulation, breath practices, guided imagery, CBT, parts work, flash and EMDR, and self compassion to help you reduce anxiety and depression while building healthy lifestyle changes.
Providing a safe place to share and connect form the foundation of our work together. Stress and anxiety, depression and grief can overwhelm anyone and I want to make sure you feel heard and supported. Learning and practicing healthy ways to cope and resolve issues in your life will bring you relief and new found confidence. Our work together can help you look at old issues, heal past wounds, and find ways to thrive in the present moment.
I use a mix of skills from distress tolerance and emotional regulation, breath practices, guided imagery, CBT, parts work, flash and EMDR, and self compassion to help you reduce anxiety and depression while building healthy lifestyle changes.
Providing a safe place to share and connect form the foundation of our work together. Stress and anxiety, depression and grief can overwhelm anyone and I want to make sure you feel heard and supported. Learning and practicing healthy ways to cope and resolve issues in your life will bring you relief and new found confidence. Our work together can help you look at old issues, heal past wounds, and find ways to thrive in the present moment.
(503) 662-9701 View (503) 662-9701
Photo of Debbie Bensching, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Bensching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, MSWAC, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97205
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to insight oriented psychotherapy I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities such as EMDR and hypnosis.
I guide the process of working through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members affected by addiction, trauma: post-traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), dissociative disorders, relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or underperforming.
In addition to insight oriented psychotherapy I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities such as EMDR and hypnosis.
I guide the process of working through problems to enhance performance in activities of daily living in work, relationships, recreation & professional settings. Problem areas include difficulties with anxiety, depression, self-esteem, anger, grief & loss, women's issues, habit disorders, addictions recovery: drugs, alcohol, food; ACOA, family members affected by addiction, trauma: post-traumatic stress, rape, abuse (physical, emotional, sexual), dissociative disorders, relationships: marriage / domestic partner, parent-child, divorce/ separation, parenting. Also work with difficulties with sleep, relaxation, or underperforming.
(503) 406-3624 View (503) 406-3624
Photo of Caroline Sabi, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Sabi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97210
Waitlist for new clients
I am an EMDR specialist and EFT( emotionally focused therapy) trained couple counselor.
I have had the privilege of witnessing people undergo the slow, extremely subtle and remarkable journey of healing and self-transformation. This process of psychological growth is astoundingly complex, multilayered, circular and even mysteriously numinous in its unfolding. My philosophy as a therapist is primarily on core transformation rather than merely symptom management and needless to say, I strongly believe in the centrality of the therapeutic relationship as a significant healing agent. Moving towards our wholeness necessitates the courage to first move into the wounded parts that we all have as members of the human species.
I am an EMDR specialist and EFT( emotionally focused therapy) trained couple counselor.
I have had the privilege of witnessing people undergo the slow, extremely subtle and remarkable journey of healing and self-transformation. This process of psychological growth is astoundingly complex, multilayered, circular and even mysteriously numinous in its unfolding. My philosophy as a therapist is primarily on core transformation rather than merely symptom management and needless to say, I strongly believe in the centrality of the therapeutic relationship as a significant healing agent. Moving towards our wholeness necessitates the courage to first move into the wounded parts that we all have as members of the human species.
(503) 994-9514 View (503) 994-9514
Photo of Susan M Hausch, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan M Hausch
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97202
I utilize EMDR, Brain Spotting and an integrative approach including physical, emotional and spiritual aspects. Together we process through life events that block you from personal growth and freedom.
I utilize EMDR, Brain Spotting and an integrative approach including physical, emotional and spiritual aspects. Together we process through life events that block you from personal growth and freedom.
(503) 809-4384 View (503) 809-4384
Photo of Taylor Alderson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Taylor Alderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
I utilize an integrative approach to therapy including Psychodynamic, Depth Psychology, CBT, and EMDR.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to providing compassionate and supportive counseling/psychotherapy. I work with individuals both long and short term. Wanting to understand why adverse or difficult things happen to us is natural. When one can contribute a sense of meaning to a difficult situation the power of the problem is often integrated and diminishes. Therapy is a process that can help an individual find the transformational quality in their adverse experiences and become empowered, instead of overwhelmed by them.
I utilize an integrative approach to therapy including Psychodynamic, Depth Psychology, CBT, and EMDR.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist dedicated to providing compassionate and supportive counseling/psychotherapy. I work with individuals both long and short term. Wanting to understand why adverse or difficult things happen to us is natural. When one can contribute a sense of meaning to a difficult situation the power of the problem is often integrated and diminishes. Therapy is a process that can help an individual find the transformational quality in their adverse experiences and become empowered, instead of overwhelmed by them.
(971) 257-8937 View (971) 257-8937
Photo of Anna Bellard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Bellard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97225  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR therapy and introduce this modality, when appropriate.
Life stress can often pile up to a point where we feel we cannot handle it on our own. This stress can look like wounds from past experiences, ongoing trauma, or maybe feeling like there is too much to handle on your plate. I hope to partner with you to create a comfortable and therapeutic space, so you can begin to process some of the challenges that life throws our way. I am passionate about assisting adolescents and adults to make positive change in their lives, wherever they are at in their journey towards growth.
I am trained in EMDR therapy and introduce this modality, when appropriate.
Life stress can often pile up to a point where we feel we cannot handle it on our own. This stress can look like wounds from past experiences, ongoing trauma, or maybe feeling like there is too much to handle on your plate. I hope to partner with you to create a comfortable and therapeutic space, so you can begin to process some of the challenges that life throws our way. I am passionate about assisting adolescents and adults to make positive change in their lives, wherever they are at in their journey towards growth.
(971) 306-9717 View (971) 306-9717
Photo of Wren Christine Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wren Christine Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Currently I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, addictions, and grief. While I have received training in a number of approaches, my goal is to offer you interventions and tools that best fit for you. I am most influenced by IFS, DBT, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Expressive Art Therapy. I look through the lens of trauma, and I take a behaviorally specific approach to support experiences of transformation into long term change and growth. You can expect to have tools and skills to practice in between session to support your work.
Currently I work with people struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, life transitions, addictions, and grief. While I have received training in a number of approaches, my goal is to offer you interventions and tools that best fit for you. I am most influenced by IFS, DBT, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Mindfulness, and Expressive Art Therapy. I look through the lens of trauma, and I take a behaviorally specific approach to support experiences of transformation into long term change and growth. You can expect to have tools and skills to practice in between session to support your work.
(971) 414-3413 View (971) 414-3413
Photo of Jill Shealy, MA, NCC, LPCA
Jill Shealy
Professional Counselor Associate, MA, NCC, LPCA
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97203  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also a certified EMDR Clinician.
I believe that there is a unique path to well-being for each person. I honor that belief by embracing an eclectic counseling style and by meeting the individual needs of each client. I believe that making small changes can have ripple effects which improve mental health in unforeseen ways. I feel that being willing to look within and change is one of the hardest and bravest things that people can do. I consider it an honor that my clients ask me to join them on their journey to wellness.
I am also a certified EMDR Clinician.
I believe that there is a unique path to well-being for each person. I honor that belief by embracing an eclectic counseling style and by meeting the individual needs of each client. I believe that making small changes can have ripple effects which improve mental health in unforeseen ways. I feel that being willing to look within and change is one of the hardest and bravest things that people can do. I consider it an honor that my clients ask me to join them on their journey to wellness.
(503) 208-4049 View (503) 208-4049
Photo of Amber Caldera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Caldera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
I bring a lot of trauma therapy interventions into my work, and use EMDR, DBT, mindfulness, attachment, parts work, Safe and Sound Protocol, and somatic interventions.
Hi! My case load is full but check out my website to match with one of my associates who would love to work with you! I am an LCSW in Oregon and Washington. I work with teens and adults particularly around trauma and more severe symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also work with those with chronic illness, body image issues, gender questions, and neurodivergence. I have a particular affinity for people who have endured trauma and who feel like they are outsiders. I pride myself in being culturally sensitive and welcoming to all, and someone who works as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I'm an approved clinical supervisor in Oregon.
I bring a lot of trauma therapy interventions into my work, and use EMDR, DBT, mindfulness, attachment, parts work, Safe and Sound Protocol, and somatic interventions.
Hi! My case load is full but check out my website to match with one of my associates who would love to work with you! I am an LCSW in Oregon and Washington. I work with teens and adults particularly around trauma and more severe symptoms of anxiety and depression. I also work with those with chronic illness, body image issues, gender questions, and neurodivergence. I have a particular affinity for people who have endured trauma and who feel like they are outsiders. I pride myself in being culturally sensitive and welcoming to all, and someone who works as part of the LGBTQIA+ community. I'm an approved clinical supervisor in Oregon.
(503) 213-9201 View (503) 213-9201
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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.