EMDR Therapists in Baden, PA
![Photo of Lynn Goodwin, LPC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cf19ba8e-979e-42bd-b98c-478014ffcacf/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have training in somatic attachment and somatic internal family systems, trauma-informed, and EMDR approaches.
I am licensed in Arizona and Pennsylvania. I offer online counseling for those who need convenience and flexibility. All individuals are uniquely gifted, have immeasurable purpose and value, and are all deserving of emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness. I also believe that wellness is a lifelong journey filled with opportunities for healing and growth. We all have the raw materials for an authentic life but sometimes we need help figuring out what that means for us.
I have training in somatic attachment and somatic internal family systems, trauma-informed, and EMDR approaches.
I am licensed in Arizona and Pennsylvania. I offer online counseling for those who need convenience and flexibility. All individuals are uniquely gifted, have immeasurable purpose and value, and are all deserving of emotional, mental, and spiritual wellness. I also believe that wellness is a lifelong journey filled with opportunities for healing and growth. We all have the raw materials for an authentic life but sometimes we need help figuring out what that means for us.
![Photo of Erica Rodriguez, MA, LPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4fea0db-dbbb-4f89-ba2f-257bf326d4b3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hello! I strive to create a space that meets all of your needs. I offer a wide range of therapy resulting from my diverse experience: sexuality and gender identity, substance use disorders, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. I work primarily with adults and adolescents, and I provide both individual and couple’s counseling. I am also trained in EMDR therapy.
Hello! I strive to create a space that meets all of your needs. I offer a wide range of therapy resulting from my diverse experience: sexuality and gender identity, substance use disorders, mood disorders, relationship difficulties, anxiety, depression, and personality disorders. I work primarily with adults and adolescents, and I provide both individual and couple’s counseling. I am also trained in EMDR therapy.
![Photo of Julia Gatti, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4f9fe079-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am a licensed psychologist and have been providing therapy for individuals, families and couples for over 23 years. I have been in private practice since 1992, and have worked extensively in private, hospital and community mental health settings. My work focuses on helping people who are experiencing Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and physical (body) problems. My specialties include trauma(PTSD, dissociation), abuse (sexual, physical, domestic),anxiety disorders,and body issues (illness, pain, eating disorders, fibromyalgia). I believe all people can become happier and I work with clients to make families healthier places for everyone.
I am a licensed psychologist and have been providing therapy for individuals, families and couples for over 23 years. I have been in private practice since 1992, and have worked extensively in private, hospital and community mental health settings. My work focuses on helping people who are experiencing Depression and Anxiety. I specialize in the treatment of trauma and physical (body) problems. My specialties include trauma(PTSD, dissociation), abuse (sexual, physical, domestic),anxiety disorders,and body issues (illness, pain, eating disorders, fibromyalgia). I believe all people can become happier and I work with clients to make families healthier places for everyone.
![Photo of Emily Belsito, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3532cdf9-c0cd-4ce0-8244-0cbcedbcb3cc/1/320x400.jpeg)
Emily Belsito
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Baden, PA 15005 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Confucious said "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step," You have taken the first step to better yourself, and I have a passion for meeting you where you are in this journey called life. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship, and strive, from the first session, to build a strong and trusting foundation with each individual so that healing and change can occur. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, as each individual is the expert in their own lives, and work with you to build on your strengths and provide you with new skills to approach life and better yourself.
Confucious said "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step," You have taken the first step to better yourself, and I have a passion for meeting you where you are in this journey called life. I believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship, and strive, from the first session, to build a strong and trusting foundation with each individual so that healing and change can occur. I take a collaborative approach to therapy, as each individual is the expert in their own lives, and work with you to build on your strengths and provide you with new skills to approach life and better yourself.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Molly Alvord - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Pittsburgh, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ce5a639-dfa5-427f-b50c-c96ace8455d1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
![Photo of Debra Ott, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f2696fe-8053-44af-8460-9f8fd57cf6b8/5/320x400.jpeg)
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (trauma treatment) and an integrated mix of other therapy approaches depending on your needs and goals.
Accepting new clients now! I am known for my warmth, compassion, and encouragement. I believe that for therapy to be successful, we will need to work as a team. My areas of specialty include anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, and grief. I have experience in addiction recovery, grief counseling, trauma recovery, somatic issues and reproductive issues. Prior to counseling, I worked in non-profit leadership which included speaking and coaching women and teens/young adults. In fact, it was the individuals I encountered during that season of life which inspired me to pursue professional counseling.
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (trauma treatment) and an integrated mix of other therapy approaches depending on your needs and goals.
Accepting new clients now! I am known for my warmth, compassion, and encouragement. I believe that for therapy to be successful, we will need to work as a team. My areas of specialty include anxiety, stress management, relationship issues, and grief. I have experience in addiction recovery, grief counseling, trauma recovery, somatic issues and reproductive issues. Prior to counseling, I worked in non-profit leadership which included speaking and coaching women and teens/young adults. In fact, it was the individuals I encountered during that season of life which inspired me to pursue professional counseling.
![Photo of Theo Bucci, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/122102e1-f3b2-4b1f-ad97-cdfaa20e4279/1/320x400.png)
I also use Eye Movement Desensitization and Processing (EMDR) and am a board certified EMDR therapist.
Hi - I am Taffie Bucci and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I am a person-centered therapist who completely accepts where you are without judgment and where you'd like to be. My role is to empower you as you move forward in life. My focus areas are mood disorders, trauma (all kinds of trauma) and LGBTQ. I primarily work with young adults and adults - anyone over 18! We can discover what you'd like to work on in a collaborative way. I am comfortable treating mood disorders, trauma, LGBTQ and substance use.
I also use Eye Movement Desensitization and Processing (EMDR) and am a board certified EMDR therapist.
Hi - I am Taffie Bucci and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I am a person-centered therapist who completely accepts where you are without judgment and where you'd like to be. My role is to empower you as you move forward in life. My focus areas are mood disorders, trauma (all kinds of trauma) and LGBTQ. I primarily work with young adults and adults - anyone over 18! We can discover what you'd like to work on in a collaborative way. I am comfortable treating mood disorders, trauma, LGBTQ and substance use.
![Photo of Maya L Andlig, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dc2abf7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/4/320x400.jpeg)
Maya L Andlig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Ambridge, PA 15003 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I practice in a way that provides tailored treatment from a range of approaches such as Psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR.
These are difficult times. As so much is in flux it may seem like too much to address on your own. You may be confronting things at this time that have been nagging at you for a while. You may want to better express yourself or have more satisfying relationships. You may have a sense of not accomplishing what you would like to accomplish, or that you could use some support in order to succeed. You may be facing a difficult time in your life and recognizing that you can't go it alone. We can work together to explore your past and what possible impact it is having on your present situation. We can create new options.
I practice in a way that provides tailored treatment from a range of approaches such as Psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR.
These are difficult times. As so much is in flux it may seem like too much to address on your own. You may be confronting things at this time that have been nagging at you for a while. You may want to better express yourself or have more satisfying relationships. You may have a sense of not accomplishing what you would like to accomplish, or that you could use some support in order to succeed. You may be facing a difficult time in your life and recognizing that you can't go it alone. We can work together to explore your past and what possible impact it is having on your present situation. We can create new options.
![Photo of Dana Henry, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/34193849-80d7-4034-8a01-0d01661536d8/2/320x400.jpeg)
I try to create a warm, inviting and safe space for my clients' emotions and thoughts to be freely expressed. I am an active counselor - I will not just sit back and nod my head. My clients and I team together to find pathways for lasting healing for trauma, hurt, and brokenness. I am certified in EMDR. I counsel with a trauma informed and gestalt/eclectic approach, and treat every client with their own individualized treatment process - no "cookie cutter counseling!"
I try to create a warm, inviting and safe space for my clients' emotions and thoughts to be freely expressed. I am an active counselor - I will not just sit back and nod my head. My clients and I team together to find pathways for lasting healing for trauma, hurt, and brokenness. I am certified in EMDR. I counsel with a trauma informed and gestalt/eclectic approach, and treat every client with their own individualized treatment process - no "cookie cutter counseling!"
![Photo of Josie Albrecht, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d285120d-21b0-4b40-b3f0-5517ec221e40/2/320x400.png)
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I enjoy working with clients who want to get to the root of their struggles. These clients would like to gain insight into their symptoms, something difficult that has happened to them or to explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving them. The clients I see often have attended therapy in the past. The clients I see also often present with attachment-based traumas, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their personal and work relationships.
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I enjoy working with clients who want to get to the root of their struggles. These clients would like to gain insight into their symptoms, something difficult that has happened to them or to explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving them. The clients I see often have attended therapy in the past. The clients I see also often present with attachment-based traumas, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their personal and work relationships.
![Photo of Jennifer Lynne DeLosa, MSCP, Pre-Licensed Professional](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/671aa461-771a-4a11-aef9-46ae47f695e1/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Trauma informed, EMDR trained associate therapist. I work with a diverse range of teen as well as adult individual clients. Helping others to be the best version of themselves is my passion in life. There is nothing more rewarding to me than seeing a client make progress. Embarking into therapy takes courage and I am inspired by my clients everyday. Their perseverance and strength always impress me and I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside them and possibly you on your journey. I do not take your trust for granted and I would be honored if you entrust your personal story and experiences with me.
I am a Trauma informed, EMDR trained associate therapist. I work with a diverse range of teen as well as adult individual clients. Helping others to be the best version of themselves is my passion in life. There is nothing more rewarding to me than seeing a client make progress. Embarking into therapy takes courage and I am inspired by my clients everyday. Their perseverance and strength always impress me and I am grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside them and possibly you on your journey. I do not take your trust for granted and I would be honored if you entrust your personal story and experiences with me.
![Photo of Kyla Feliz-Williams - Resilient Roads LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/53a85fc1-2116-4d3a-a111-8d054fddeab6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Resilient Roads LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sewickley, PA 15143 (Online Only)
My therapeutic approach integrates a blend of modalities such as EMDR Therapy, Mind-Body Therapies, Parts Work, and Relational Psychotherapy to enhance self-awareness and help you develop confidence and capability navigating life's inevitable changes.
My ideal client is someone who is self-aware and dedicated, often putting others' needs before their own. They might be a helping professional, such as a fellow therapist, first responder, or educator, or someone facing significant life transitions and stressors. They are grappling with issues such as trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or chronic illness, and they are seeking a space to process these experiences and find a path forward. Their goals are to build resilience, improve their relationships, and develop effective coping strategies to navigate their life that comes with inevitable future stressors.
My therapeutic approach integrates a blend of modalities such as EMDR Therapy, Mind-Body Therapies, Parts Work, and Relational Psychotherapy to enhance self-awareness and help you develop confidence and capability navigating life's inevitable changes.
My ideal client is someone who is self-aware and dedicated, often putting others' needs before their own. They might be a helping professional, such as a fellow therapist, first responder, or educator, or someone facing significant life transitions and stressors. They are grappling with issues such as trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or chronic illness, and they are seeking a space to process these experiences and find a path forward. Their goals are to build resilience, improve their relationships, and develop effective coping strategies to navigate their life that comes with inevitable future stressors.
![Photo of Daria Durny - Ellie Mental Health-Wexford, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9ec8d1a3-4624-43af-90c1-f854edea58b3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Ellie Mental Health-Wexford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wexford, PA 15090
Ellie as a number of talented therapists with various expertise including EMDR, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Trauma, Loss, Play Therapy, Relationship Counseling, and more!.
Ellie Mental Health in Wexford, Pennsylvania isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
Ellie as a number of talented therapists with various expertise including EMDR, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, Trauma, Loss, Play Therapy, Relationship Counseling, and more!.
Ellie Mental Health in Wexford, Pennsylvania isn’t your average therapy clinic. We’ve created a comfy, judgment-free zone where you can be authentic, get real about where you’re at in your mental health, and receive the compassionate care you deserve. We strive to break down treatment barriers and provide you with customized counseling services that meet your therapy needs.
![Photo of Paige Malnofsky, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0840afc3-4c29-42a5-868e-c92c7a16fe3f/3/320x400.jpeg)
Paige Malnofsky
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Coraopolis, PA 15108
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR Trained. Lets face it life is challenging and living is not an easy task. Everyday we wake up we never know what is going to occur or what challenges we may face. If you are finding yourself struggling on the day to day, having poor motivation, feeling lonely, or that you are just going through the motions in life rather than truly living, then please reach out to me. Take back the control you once had in your life and together we will work to find the root of these concerns you are struggling with as well as find techniques and skills that promote growth and overall wellness.
Currently accepting new clients and EMDR Trained. Lets face it life is challenging and living is not an easy task. Everyday we wake up we never know what is going to occur or what challenges we may face. If you are finding yourself struggling on the day to day, having poor motivation, feeling lonely, or that you are just going through the motions in life rather than truly living, then please reach out to me. Take back the control you once had in your life and together we will work to find the root of these concerns you are struggling with as well as find techniques and skills that promote growth and overall wellness.
![Photo of Nicole Monteleone, MA, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3dfc136a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Monteleone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Cranberry Township, PA 16066
My therapeutic approaches are evidence based and include mindfulness, EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy.
It is my personal belief that every individual has limitless potential to heal, grow and change. As your therapist, it is my goal to help you unlock your capabilities to achieve wellness, happiness and balance in your life and to provide a welcoming, judgment free space for every individual's self-exploration. I act as a guide for individuals and couples gaining insight into their lives and relationships and help apply that knowledge to inspire your change and growth.
My therapeutic approaches are evidence based and include mindfulness, EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy.
It is my personal belief that every individual has limitless potential to heal, grow and change. As your therapist, it is my goal to help you unlock your capabilities to achieve wellness, happiness and balance in your life and to provide a welcoming, judgment free space for every individual's self-exploration. I act as a guide for individuals and couples gaining insight into their lives and relationships and help apply that knowledge to inspire your change and growth.
![Photo of Lizzie Birmingham, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5a7d9b48-589e-47e8-aea7-da403b0e4a95/2/320x400.png)
I am trained in DBT & MI and am currently completing my EMDR training.
My ideal population is adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, or substance use - however I believe that everyone deserves to have a therapist who is dedicated to them, and I would never turn away a client unless their needs were out of my scope of practice. My ideal client is someone who is motivated for therapy and is willing to learn.
I am trained in DBT & MI and am currently completing my EMDR training.
My ideal population is adults struggling with anxiety, depression, PTSD, stress, or substance use - however I believe that everyone deserves to have a therapist who is dedicated to them, and I would never turn away a client unless their needs were out of my scope of practice. My ideal client is someone who is motivated for therapy and is willing to learn.
![Photo of Susan Beggan Paganie, LPC, NCC, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/42c0e857-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Susan Beggan Paganie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, BCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cranberry Township, PA 16066 (Online Only)
My specialities are in mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and couples therapy. I am a certified trauma professional, certified in DBT, Level II trained in EMDR, Level 3 in Brainspotting and Level III trained in Gottman Marital Therapy. I am also a Board Certified Coach. I specialize in adults, adolescents, couples and families.
My specialities are in mood and anxiety disorders, trauma, grief and couples therapy. I am a certified trauma professional, certified in DBT, Level II trained in EMDR, Level 3 in Brainspotting and Level III trained in Gottman Marital Therapy. I am also a Board Certified Coach. I specialize in adults, adolescents, couples and families.
![Photo of Megan Berringer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/375ad1c4-42de-46ea-9418-4d73c5a73bc6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Megan Berringer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coraopolis, PA 15108
I also offer EMDR Therapy.
If you are someone who comes to therapy with the goal of improving your quality of life with some hesitancy and skepticism about the systems and structures that have led you here, then I would love the opportunity to work with you. I do not believe that it is possible to be non-judgmental. Instead, I utilize radical empathy and eclectic approach to clarify your needs and wants within your own lived experience. The therapeutic relationship is an important one, and I strive to model effective communication, healthy boundaries and realistic expectations in our work together.
I also offer EMDR Therapy.
If you are someone who comes to therapy with the goal of improving your quality of life with some hesitancy and skepticism about the systems and structures that have led you here, then I would love the opportunity to work with you. I do not believe that it is possible to be non-judgmental. Instead, I utilize radical empathy and eclectic approach to clarify your needs and wants within your own lived experience. The therapeutic relationship is an important one, and I strive to model effective communication, healthy boundaries and realistic expectations in our work together.
![Photo of Shannon Dering, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/185a646d-2357-49c2-aea2-4798099494f4/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Dering
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Coraopolis, PA 15108
Waitlist for new clients
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy and working towards EMDR certification.
Congratulations on taking the first step in your healing journey. This is a courageous first step in the line of many. Life can be difficult, stressful, challenging and overwhelming. Everyone experiences these feelings at some point in their life, including therapists, and that's okay! I firmly believe that everyone is capable healing and peace, and I am humbled to be a part of that healing journey. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space for you, using unconditional positive regard, empathy and connection, to explore your healing journey and deepen your self understanding.
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy and working towards EMDR certification.
Congratulations on taking the first step in your healing journey. This is a courageous first step in the line of many. Life can be difficult, stressful, challenging and overwhelming. Everyone experiences these feelings at some point in their life, including therapists, and that's okay! I firmly believe that everyone is capable healing and peace, and I am humbled to be a part of that healing journey. My goal is to create a safe and compassionate space for you, using unconditional positive regard, empathy and connection, to explore your healing journey and deepen your self understanding.
![Photo of Megan Berringer - Movement in Mind, LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea97adfb-f725-4345-a5ea-b271f986e5fe/1/320x400.png)
Movement in Mind, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sewickley, PA 15143
My primary modalities include EMDR therapy, motivational interviewing, somatic experiencing, embodiment practices, polyvagal theory, and Internal Family Systems/Parts Work.
If you are hoping to improve your relationship with your mind and body but haven't found a therapist who really validates your experience, it's giving trauma and I want to help! I am an EMDR-trained clinical social worker and I consider trauma to be a universal lived experience. I understand the role of somatic experiencing as integral to adaptation and change. As a lover of strength sports, I specialize in sports performance and use EMDR therapy to help you clear mental blocks and adapt after injury. I love working with clients who identify as queer, chronically ill and neurodivergent, including ADHD and autism.
My primary modalities include EMDR therapy, motivational interviewing, somatic experiencing, embodiment practices, polyvagal theory, and Internal Family Systems/Parts Work.
If you are hoping to improve your relationship with your mind and body but haven't found a therapist who really validates your experience, it's giving trauma and I want to help! I am an EMDR-trained clinical social worker and I consider trauma to be a universal lived experience. I understand the role of somatic experiencing as integral to adaptation and change. As a lover of strength sports, I specialize in sports performance and use EMDR therapy to help you clear mental blocks and adapt after injury. I love working with clients who identify as queer, chronically ill and neurodivergent, including ADHD and autism.
See more therapy options for Baden
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Baden
- Aliquippa
- Beaver
- Beaver Falls
- Coraopolis
- Cranberry Township
- Mars
- Moon Township
- New Brighton
- Seven Fields
- Sewickley
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- Wexford
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.