EMDR Therapists in East Liberty, PA

Photo of Tracey S. McCarthy, MSEd, BCC, LPC, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracey S. McCarthy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, BCC, LPC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
East Liberty, PA 15206  (Online Only)
EMDR can help to resolve emotions about distressing past experiences.
It’s unsettling to be in the world as it is, especially for queer folks. It’s time to rise up, face our fears, and heal and nurture ourselves. I work exclusively with those in this beautiful, sparkly, rainbow-hued community to help with transitions and troubles, navigate life's journey, and thrive. I give feedback and use my life experiences to connect, to view situations in new ways, clarify ideas, and invite them to try new things.
EMDR can help to resolve emotions about distressing past experiences.
It’s unsettling to be in the world as it is, especially for queer folks. It’s time to rise up, face our fears, and heal and nurture ourselves. I work exclusively with those in this beautiful, sparkly, rainbow-hued community to help with transitions and troubles, navigate life's journey, and thrive. I give feedback and use my life experiences to connect, to view situations in new ways, clarify ideas, and invite them to try new things.
(724) 908-0060 View (724) 908-0060
Photo of Hayley Sweitzer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hayley Sweitzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Liberty, PA 15206
In addition, I am partially trained in EMDR.
Making that call and advocating for ourselves to get the help we need is big step. My aim is to create a safe space that can foster individual change and help you navigate the answers they already have within themselves. I strive to create a personalized environment for people to explore their feelings and do the hard work to create the lives they desire. Therapy can be intimidating for many and I aim to meet people where they are and use the therapeutic relationship to foster growth.
In addition, I am partially trained in EMDR.
Making that call and advocating for ourselves to get the help we need is big step. My aim is to create a safe space that can foster individual change and help you navigate the answers they already have within themselves. I strive to create a personalized environment for people to explore their feelings and do the hard work to create the lives they desire. Therapy can be intimidating for many and I aim to meet people where they are and use the therapeutic relationship to foster growth.
(412) 419-3741 View (412) 419-3741
Photo of Kelly Horvath, MSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelly Horvath
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
East Liberty, PA 15206
I am trained in EMDR and find that this type of therapy is powerful in helping clients recover from traumatic experiences.
Trauma can affect anyone over the course of their lifetime. Dealing with difficult feelings and experiences can be challenging, but with the right tools, you can manage your symptoms, reclaim your sense of self, and move toward living your best life. The choice to begin therapy can be the first step toward finding relief. My name is Kelly, and I'd be honored to be your therapist. I strive to view my practice through the lenses of cultural competence, progressive social values, a systems perspective, and the Sanctuary Model, among other theories
I am trained in EMDR and find that this type of therapy is powerful in helping clients recover from traumatic experiences.
Trauma can affect anyone over the course of their lifetime. Dealing with difficult feelings and experiences can be challenging, but with the right tools, you can manage your symptoms, reclaim your sense of self, and move toward living your best life. The choice to begin therapy can be the first step toward finding relief. My name is Kelly, and I'd be honored to be your therapist. I strive to view my practice through the lenses of cultural competence, progressive social values, a systems perspective, and the Sanctuary Model, among other theories
(412) 851-6153 View (412) 851-6153
Photo of Brittany Littlejohn Maxshure - Littlejohn Counseling & Consulting, LLC, MSW, MPH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Littlejohn Counseling & Consulting, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MPH, LCSW
Verified Verified
East Liberty, PA 15206
I primarily use EMDR or CBT to help those coping with grief & loss, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues.
Brittany Littlejohn Maxshure is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Pennsylvania. She's spent much of her career working with individuals with chronic health conditions. Her experience with and understanding of the concerns and stressors of individuals among this population has equipped her with a unique skillset. She has an overall focus on supporting clients as they navigate through life’s transitions and challenges; whether it be in their personal or professional lives. Brittany strongly believes that everyone has the ability to reach their full potential and she has a desire to assist them in achieving their goals.
I primarily use EMDR or CBT to help those coping with grief & loss, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem issues.
Brittany Littlejohn Maxshure is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Pennsylvania. She's spent much of her career working with individuals with chronic health conditions. Her experience with and understanding of the concerns and stressors of individuals among this population has equipped her with a unique skillset. She has an overall focus on supporting clients as they navigate through life’s transitions and challenges; whether it be in their personal or professional lives. Brittany strongly believes that everyone has the ability to reach their full potential and she has a desire to assist them in achieving their goals.
(412) 407-8630 View (412) 407-8630
Photo of Brittany M. Kiefer, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brittany M. Kiefer
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Liberty, PA 15206
At times, life may bring intense and confusing emotions that interfere with reaching our daily goals and aspirations. By working collaboratively within a calm, supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere, we can begin to become more curious about desired changes. Therapy can serve as a guide to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, how you relate and navigate the interpersonal relationships in your life, and within your environment. I also believe it is imperative to view therapy through a trauma-informed lens, while respecting each individual's background, where trauma's may have left unspoken words.
At times, life may bring intense and confusing emotions that interfere with reaching our daily goals and aspirations. By working collaboratively within a calm, supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere, we can begin to become more curious about desired changes. Therapy can serve as a guide to help you gain a better understanding of yourself, how you relate and navigate the interpersonal relationships in your life, and within your environment. I also believe it is imperative to view therapy through a trauma-informed lens, while respecting each individual's background, where trauma's may have left unspoken words.
(412) 207-3438 View (412) 207-3438
Photo of Amber Moskowitz, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amber Moskowitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Liberty, PA 15206
I am most drawn to supporting individuals interested in empathically instilling acceptance for themselves and the way they have learned to survive within their environment. I work best with teens and young adults who tend to over-think and want to lean to befriend their feelings. If you find yourself struggling with transitions, managing emotions or trusting yourself and others, I would be honored to support you in discovering ways to reduce tension and increase understanding around what your “symptoms” are trying to tell you.
I am most drawn to supporting individuals interested in empathically instilling acceptance for themselves and the way they have learned to survive within their environment. I work best with teens and young adults who tend to over-think and want to lean to befriend their feelings. If you find yourself struggling with transitions, managing emotions or trusting yourself and others, I would be honored to support you in discovering ways to reduce tension and increase understanding around what your “symptoms” are trying to tell you.
(412) 435-1225 View (412) 435-1225
Photo of Matt Wilson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Wilson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Liberty, PA 15206
Not accepting new clients
I help people who are confused by their emotions to develop a sense of control and safety in exploring their thoughts, memories and feelings. I work with people who have experienced sexual/physical/emotional abuse in childhood, or assault in adulthood, community violence, gender violence or incarceration; and who find it hard to control anger, sadness, mood swings, stress, to trust themselves, others or have close relationships. I believe that honest, compassionate discussion lets you approach what you might want to ignore, but won’t go away; or explore what might not have space to be said with friends or family.
I help people who are confused by their emotions to develop a sense of control and safety in exploring their thoughts, memories and feelings. I work with people who have experienced sexual/physical/emotional abuse in childhood, or assault in adulthood, community violence, gender violence or incarceration; and who find it hard to control anger, sadness, mood swings, stress, to trust themselves, others or have close relationships. I believe that honest, compassionate discussion lets you approach what you might want to ignore, but won’t go away; or explore what might not have space to be said with friends or family.
(878) 225-5486 View (878) 225-5486

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ruth Han, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ruth Han
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15260  (Online Only)
I'm trauma informed and EMDR trained.
I work with accomplished and high achieving people who are struggling in their current chapter of life. Your struggle could present as depression, grief, anxiety, rage... There are particular times in our life where if we haven't been living authentic lives, being able to admit what we want (or don't want), our true selves will still demand to be recognized and dealt with. The need to live authentically never goes away. If anything, the last thing you want is to near the end of your life and be full of regret or wishing you had done things differently.
I'm trauma informed and EMDR trained.
I work with accomplished and high achieving people who are struggling in their current chapter of life. Your struggle could present as depression, grief, anxiety, rage... There are particular times in our life where if we haven't been living authentic lives, being able to admit what we want (or don't want), our true selves will still demand to be recognized and dealt with. The need to live authentically never goes away. If anything, the last thing you want is to near the end of your life and be full of regret or wishing you had done things differently.
(484) 430-3484 View (484) 430-3484
Photo of Kathleen Seitz, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Seitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Aspinwall, PA 15215
As a Board Certified, EMDR trained, Certified Trauma Professional and Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide a customized approach that supports both change & self acceptance.
Do you feel like you are going through life’s struggles alone, unsupported and with no direction? Balancing the demands of life, work or school in today's fast paced and changing world can leave us feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, lonely or even angry. As children we sometimes develop behavioral strategies to face life's challenges or trauma's that as adults, simply no longer fit with how we imagine or intend ourselves to be. Understanding the nature and origin of destructive patterns and their consequences, addressing current challenges and long standing issues, gaining insight and learning the skills necessary for change is what successful therapy is about.
As a Board Certified, EMDR trained, Certified Trauma Professional and Licensed Professional Counselor, I provide a customized approach that supports both change & self acceptance.
Do you feel like you are going through life’s struggles alone, unsupported and with no direction? Balancing the demands of life, work or school in today's fast paced and changing world can leave us feeling overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, depressed, lonely or even angry. As children we sometimes develop behavioral strategies to face life's challenges or trauma's that as adults, simply no longer fit with how we imagine or intend ourselves to be. Understanding the nature and origin of destructive patterns and their consequences, addressing current challenges and long standing issues, gaining insight and learning the skills necessary for change is what successful therapy is about.
(412) 436-3928 View (412) 436-3928
Photo of Dr. Rebecca Brent, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Rebecca Brent
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I have specialized training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Family-Based Interpersonal Psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Behavior Activation, The Mind Body Program for Fertility, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Prolonged Grief Treatment, Circle of Security Parenting, and am certified in EMDR through EMDRIA.
The prospect of change can be frightening, but it can also bring greater happiness, growth and meaning to your life. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to help you navigate life challenges, heal from painful experiences, and grow into the best version of yourself. In addition to in person sessions in Pittsburgh, PA, ​I am able to provide teletherapy in participating states pursuant to Psypact Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) under the Psypact Commission E. Passport Mobility Number 15679 (includes PA, OH, WV and 34 additional states)
I have specialized training in Interpersonal Psychotherapy, Family-Based Interpersonal Psychotherapy, CBT, DBT, Behavior Activation, The Mind Body Program for Fertility, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, Prolonged Grief Treatment, Circle of Security Parenting, and am certified in EMDR through EMDRIA.
The prospect of change can be frightening, but it can also bring greater happiness, growth and meaning to your life. As a licensed clinical psychologist, I take a compassionate and collaborative approach to help you navigate life challenges, heal from painful experiences, and grow into the best version of yourself. In addition to in person sessions in Pittsburgh, PA, ​I am able to provide teletherapy in participating states pursuant to Psypact Practice Interjurisdictional Telepsychology (APIT) under the Psypact Commission E. Passport Mobility Number 15679 (includes PA, OH, WV and 34 additional states)
(412) 424-6960 View (412) 424-6960
Photo of Ann Adams, MPH, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ann Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I am trained in EMDR, CPT, TF-CBT and other evidence-based modalities.
As a psychodynamic, trauma-focused therapist, I can help you process past experiences in a safe environment - working with you to calm the unwanted noise that is anxiety. I can also help you address and resolve the depression that too often obscures our truest selves. Perhaps you’ve experienced a major upheaval or maybe you’re grappling with more subtle, disruptive changes to your day-to-day functioning. Either way, such shifts can be destabilizing, causing us to question core beliefs and ask: Am I even on the right path? New traumas may unfold, and older ones may awaken but we still have a very real need to feel grounded.
I am trained in EMDR, CPT, TF-CBT and other evidence-based modalities.
As a psychodynamic, trauma-focused therapist, I can help you process past experiences in a safe environment - working with you to calm the unwanted noise that is anxiety. I can also help you address and resolve the depression that too often obscures our truest selves. Perhaps you’ve experienced a major upheaval or maybe you’re grappling with more subtle, disruptive changes to your day-to-day functioning. Either way, such shifts can be destabilizing, causing us to question core beliefs and ask: Am I even on the right path? New traumas may unfold, and older ones may awaken but we still have a very real need to feel grounded.
(412) 754-7890 View (412) 754-7890
Photo of Tara Pannell - Manifest Psychotherapy and Wellness, LPC, LCSW, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Manifest Psychotherapy and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
At Manifest, we have therapists who specialize in a variety of modalities ranging from CBT, DBT, and EMDR trained and certified therapists, to therapists who offer body oriented, spiritually informed, and depth psychology approaches. Whether you are looking to explore and take an in depth look at your own capacity for healing and awakening, or looking for outcomes based therapies to resolve psychological and emotional blockages, triggers, or traumas that are standing in the way, we are here to help support you in meeting your needs.
At Manifest, we have therapists who specialize in a variety of modalities ranging from CBT, DBT, and EMDR trained and certified therapists, to therapists who offer body oriented, spiritually informed, and depth psychology approaches. Whether you are looking to explore and take an in depth look at your own capacity for healing and awakening, or looking for outcomes based therapies to resolve psychological and emotional blockages, triggers, or traumas that are standing in the way, we are here to help support you in meeting your needs.
(412) 275-6954 View (412) 275-6954
Photo of Jessica Gazzola, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Gazzola
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
Waitlist for new clients
I draw on a combination of psychodynamic, attachment-focused EMDR, and narrative approaches to guide you toward your goals.
Welcome! I believe the therapeutic relationship has a significant impact on outcomes in therapy. As your counselor, I plan to foster a caring and attuned relationship that creates a sense of safety. By allowing me to be a part of your journey, I hope to help you feel seen, heard, and supported.
I draw on a combination of psychodynamic, attachment-focused EMDR, and narrative approaches to guide you toward your goals.
Welcome! I believe the therapeutic relationship has a significant impact on outcomes in therapy. As your counselor, I plan to foster a caring and attuned relationship that creates a sense of safety. By allowing me to be a part of your journey, I hope to help you feel seen, heard, and supported.
(412) 516-3251 View (412) 516-3251
Photo of Jeanne (Jeana) Foster, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeanne (Jeana) Foster
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15232  (Online Only)
As a therapist skilled in both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I offer a comprehensive approach to address a wide range of issues.
I have almost 25 years experience working as a licensed professional counselor. My training and expertise is in helping people overcome anxiety, panic, depression, mood disorders and PTSD. I also have also experience helping people manage chronic illness and pain.
As a therapist skilled in both Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I offer a comprehensive approach to address a wide range of issues.
I have almost 25 years experience working as a licensed professional counselor. My training and expertise is in helping people overcome anxiety, panic, depression, mood disorders and PTSD. I also have also experience helping people manage chronic illness and pain.
(814) 787-0619 View (814) 787-0619
Photo of Debra Flint - Quiet Retreat Therapy, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Quiet Retreat Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15209
We practice Gestalt therapy, mindfulness practices, human-centered talk therapy, EMDR as well as CBT & DBT.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
We practice Gestalt therapy, mindfulness practices, human-centered talk therapy, EMDR as well as CBT & DBT.
My goal in providing therapy is to promote a judgement free, non-anxious presence so that you can explore and grow in ways that feel right to you. By using a mix of traditional and trauma-informed therapy styles, we will work together towards healing and authenticity. Whether you struggle with abuse, discrimination, anxiety, depression, need to hone your coping skills or discover your future path, we are here for you. Discover a safe, confidential, and friendly place to explore issues that are close to your heart. You are cared for and loved.
(724) 573-8992 View (724) 573-8992
Photo of Maddie Canel, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maddie Canel
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
I am trained EMDR as well and utilize that when applicable.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as being trained in working with clients with BPD and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
I am trained EMDR as well and utilize that when applicable.
I have lived experience with neurodivergence, depression, anxiety, and being in a plus sized body. I have experience working with the above as well as being trained in working with clients with BPD and clients who just feel like they need a safe space to discuss day to day life stressors. I stress to my clients that therapy is for everyone and there is no such thing as a "trauma olympics" where something is better or worse than others! I work with clients age 6+.
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Photo of Kate Rudd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Rudd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I use evidence-informed practices and integrate cognitive behavioral therapy to heal trauma (EMDR), manage chronic disease like depression and anxiety (Stanford University certified), and create healthy routines, including better sleep habits.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help managing it. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity, and courage.
I use evidence-informed practices and integrate cognitive behavioral therapy to heal trauma (EMDR), manage chronic disease like depression and anxiety (Stanford University certified), and create healthy routines, including better sleep habits.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help managing it. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity, and courage.
(412) 900-8251 View (412) 900-8251
Photo of Caitlin Harrison, MFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Caitlin Harrison
Pre-Licensed Professional, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217  (Online Only)
I integrate EMDR, an evidence based breakthrough method for processing trauma in cases where traditional methods fall short.
My commitment is to forge an authentic connection, ensuring you feel safe in our shared journey. Specializing in anxiety, I explore childhood wounds' impact on present-day life. Assisting with trauma, my focus extends to religious trauma, deconstruction, and deconversion. I provide a non-judgmental space to explore evolving individuality—unraveling layers of identity, grappling with existential questions. For couples, I specialize in conflict resolution, sexuality and intimacy, coparenting, and infidelity. Recognizing negative cycles, we delve into the emotional core, guiding couples to build a strong, loving and resilient bond.
I integrate EMDR, an evidence based breakthrough method for processing trauma in cases where traditional methods fall short.
My commitment is to forge an authentic connection, ensuring you feel safe in our shared journey. Specializing in anxiety, I explore childhood wounds' impact on present-day life. Assisting with trauma, my focus extends to religious trauma, deconstruction, and deconversion. I provide a non-judgmental space to explore evolving individuality—unraveling layers of identity, grappling with existential questions. For couples, I specialize in conflict resolution, sexuality and intimacy, coparenting, and infidelity. Recognizing negative cycles, we delve into the emotional core, guiding couples to build a strong, loving and resilient bond.
(267) 507-0355 View (267) 507-0355
Photo of Ryan J. King, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ryan J. King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
Ryan King is a state licensed Social Worker with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and a Master's degree in Social Work from University of Pittsburgh, with a focus on Mental Health. Ryan works with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness including Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bi-Polar), Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse and Crisis Intervention. In addition, Ryan works with anger, social skills, and stress management as well as crisis management. Ryan is trained in EMDR therapy used for addressing past trauma
Ryan King is a state licensed Social Worker with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and a Master's degree in Social Work from University of Pittsburgh, with a focus on Mental Health. Ryan works with individuals with severe and persistent mental illness including Schizophrenia, Mood Disorders (Depression, Bi-Polar), Anxiety, Personality Disorders, Substance Abuse and Crisis Intervention. In addition, Ryan works with anger, social skills, and stress management as well as crisis management. Ryan is trained in EMDR therapy used for addressing past trauma
(878) 645-3546 View (878) 645-3546
Photo of Djuan D Short, LCSW , CCTP, C-IYAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Djuan D Short
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , CCTP, C-IYAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15208  (Online Only)
We specialize in EMDR therapy, trauma-informed therapy, and yoga therapy through a spiritual lens to address various challenges like anxiety, stress, toxic relationships, and workplace trauma.
Your mind races, trapped in a cycle of overthinking. Saying 'no' feels impossible, burdened by guilt and obligation. Frustration builds, leaving you moody and irritable, longing for support. Masking true feelings becomes second nature, craving validation and acceptance. Doubt plagues every decision, fueling the belief that you'll never measure up. It's a constant battle, wondering if there's a way to break free from anxiety and self-doubt. But you can find the peace and clarity you deserve with support and guidance.
We specialize in EMDR therapy, trauma-informed therapy, and yoga therapy through a spiritual lens to address various challenges like anxiety, stress, toxic relationships, and workplace trauma.
Your mind races, trapped in a cycle of overthinking. Saying 'no' feels impossible, burdened by guilt and obligation. Frustration builds, leaving you moody and irritable, longing for support. Masking true feelings becomes second nature, craving validation and acceptance. Doubt plagues every decision, fueling the belief that you'll never measure up. It's a constant battle, wondering if there's a way to break free from anxiety and self-doubt. But you can find the peace and clarity you deserve with support and guidance.
(215) 960-9807 View (215) 960-9807

See more therapy options for East Liberty

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.