EMDR Therapists in Emmaus, PA

Photo of Josie Albrecht, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josie Albrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
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.
(484) 978-8208 View (484) 978-8208
Photo of Philip Anthony Nastasee, PhD, Psychologist
Philip Anthony Nastasee
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
I also do EMDR for trauma and have recently completed the Intermediate training in Clinical Hypnosis via American Society for Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH).
I specialize in working with people in transition. These transitions have many sources, but we all struggle with them to some degree. In short, crisis provides danger and opportunity. I facilitate growth and change, rather than being reductionistic and focusing solely on symptoms. Together my clients and I collaborate to create new insights, develop new skills and eliminate old, unproductive ways of thinking and behaving.
I also do EMDR for trauma and have recently completed the Intermediate training in Clinical Hypnosis via American Society for Clinical Hypnosis (ASCH).
I specialize in working with people in transition. These transitions have many sources, but we all struggle with them to some degree. In short, crisis provides danger and opportunity. I facilitate growth and change, rather than being reductionistic and focusing solely on symptoms. Together my clients and I collaborate to create new insights, develop new skills and eliminate old, unproductive ways of thinking and behaving.
(610) 616-2844 View (610) 616-2844
Photo of Deborah Stoner, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deborah Stoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Emmaus, PA 18049
I often provide EMDR, parts work, or other trauma resolution techniques while clients continue to work with their providers.
You’ll find a relaxed & informal atmosphere in my office. Bodhi, the therapy dog, and I offer counseling to adults who would like help with anxiety/fears; injuries, illnesses, accidents and other trauma-related issues; negative thoughts; relationships; stress reduction/mindfulness; creativity and sports performance enhancement, & compassion fatigue. I also support adoptive parents struggling with children with insecure attachment & work with adult adoptees with relationship and trauma issues. Feel free to visit my website for more details.
I often provide EMDR, parts work, or other trauma resolution techniques while clients continue to work with their providers.
You’ll find a relaxed & informal atmosphere in my office. Bodhi, the therapy dog, and I offer counseling to adults who would like help with anxiety/fears; injuries, illnesses, accidents and other trauma-related issues; negative thoughts; relationships; stress reduction/mindfulness; creativity and sports performance enhancement, & compassion fatigue. I also support adoptive parents struggling with children with insecure attachment & work with adult adoptees with relationship and trauma issues. Feel free to visit my website for more details.
(610) 422-3815 View (610) 422-3815
Photo of Abby Sheneman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abby Sheneman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Emmaus, PA 18049
I strive to provide therapy with the qualities I would want as a client: the ability to provide space to feel comfortable and supported, cultivate mutual respect, suspend judgement while walking side by side through dark moments, and share honest and compassionate feedback. I aim to listen and point out areas of your story that are important to be attentive to. In fact, as your therapist it is my responsibility to act as a detective for your feelings, thoughts, ideas, and emotions. These qualities have shaped my areas of specialization, including EMDR for trauma as well as general therapy for anxiety, depression, and grief/loss.
I strive to provide therapy with the qualities I would want as a client: the ability to provide space to feel comfortable and supported, cultivate mutual respect, suspend judgement while walking side by side through dark moments, and share honest and compassionate feedback. I aim to listen and point out areas of your story that are important to be attentive to. In fact, as your therapist it is my responsibility to act as a detective for your feelings, thoughts, ideas, and emotions. These qualities have shaped my areas of specialization, including EMDR for trauma as well as general therapy for anxiety, depression, and grief/loss.
(610) 778-2147 View (610) 778-2147
Photo of Amy Weinsteiger, MA, MFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Weinsteiger
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
Amy is also EMDR-trained to assist those with negative core beliefs& trauma.
I focus on helping individuals feel accepted and safe while supporting them in reaching their goals. I strive to help people find satisfaction in all aspects of their lives and to become the best friend, partner, parent, sibling, and SELF that they can be.
Amy is also EMDR-trained to assist those with negative core beliefs& trauma.
I focus on helping individuals feel accepted and safe while supporting them in reaching their goals. I strive to help people find satisfaction in all aspects of their lives and to become the best friend, partner, parent, sibling, and SELF that they can be.
(610) 822-9047 View (610) 822-9047
Photo of Coleen Lillie-Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Coleen Lillie-Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
Cognitive Behavioral techniques, mindfulness, Sensori-Motor psychotherapy and EMDR are some of the modalities I am trained to offer clients with this process.
My work as a therapist with individuals and families is guided by two core values; people are the experts in their own lives and everyone has the capacity to be their best self. I use a strengths-based, holistic approach to therapy through a biopsychosocial and trauma-informed lens. Anxiety, depression, and developmental trauma can be stumbling blocks towards achieving one's goals and I am honored to be part of the recovery journey. Since there is no one right way to do therapy, collaboration is key for people to meet their goals.
Cognitive Behavioral techniques, mindfulness, Sensori-Motor psychotherapy and EMDR are some of the modalities I am trained to offer clients with this process.
My work as a therapist with individuals and families is guided by two core values; people are the experts in their own lives and everyone has the capacity to be their best self. I use a strengths-based, holistic approach to therapy through a biopsychosocial and trauma-informed lens. Anxiety, depression, and developmental trauma can be stumbling blocks towards achieving one's goals and I am honored to be part of the recovery journey. Since there is no one right way to do therapy, collaboration is key for people to meet their goals.
(484) 867-8156 View (484) 867-8156
Photo of Jennifer Velekei, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Velekei
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
She practices an eclectic therapy style that is humanistic, trauma-informed, person-centered and utilizes interventions from modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness based CBT.
Jennifer is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from Millersville University with a Masters of Science in Clinical Psychology. Jennifer believes the foundation for effective therapy is a strong therapeutic relationship. Because of this, she enjoys taking the time to really get to know you as a person to begin to build a foundation together. She works together with you to learn your needs and goals in order to select the most appropriate interventions for your unique needs.
She practices an eclectic therapy style that is humanistic, trauma-informed, person-centered and utilizes interventions from modalities such as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness based CBT.
Jennifer is a Licensed Professional Counselor who has been practicing since 2015. She graduated from Millersville University with a Masters of Science in Clinical Psychology. Jennifer believes the foundation for effective therapy is a strong therapeutic relationship. Because of this, she enjoys taking the time to really get to know you as a person to begin to build a foundation together. She works together with you to learn your needs and goals in order to select the most appropriate interventions for your unique needs.
(484) 930-1763 View (484) 930-1763
Photo of Lori B. Yoder, MSS, LCSW, CHT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lori B. Yoder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049
"If you don't transform your grief, you will transmit it." -Tim Shriver. If you have experienced, or are experiencing, a loss and/or life transition, allow me to help you transform your grief so that you will not transmit it. I feel it is a privilege to walk beside those who are on a grief journey. I offer a safe, kind, compassionate, non-judgmental listening ear, and bereavement support. Life may never be as it once was, but you can experience happiness again. Grief is never resolved, but it can be reconciled.
"If you don't transform your grief, you will transmit it." -Tim Shriver. If you have experienced, or are experiencing, a loss and/or life transition, allow me to help you transform your grief so that you will not transmit it. I feel it is a privilege to walk beside those who are on a grief journey. I offer a safe, kind, compassionate, non-judgmental listening ear, and bereavement support. Life may never be as it once was, but you can experience happiness again. Grief is never resolved, but it can be reconciled.
(267) 915-6506 View (267) 915-6506
Photo of Mary Radaker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Radaker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Emmaus, PA 18049  (Online Only)
Hello. My name is Mary Radaker, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have 18 years of experience in the counseling field and am competent in many treatment approaches. I value my clients' input into the therapeutic process and work to create a safe and relaxed environment which clients feel comfortable in. My areas of expertise are trauma, Addictions, Anxiety, Depression as well as Grief and Loss.
Hello. My name is Mary Radaker, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have 18 years of experience in the counseling field and am competent in many treatment approaches. I value my clients' input into the therapeutic process and work to create a safe and relaxed environment which clients feel comfortable in. My areas of expertise are trauma, Addictions, Anxiety, Depression as well as Grief and Loss.
(717) 699-8970 View (717) 699-8970
Photo of Bethany Detwiler, PhD, Psychologist
Bethany Detwiler
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Emmaus, PA 18049
Not accepting new clients
You can expect a deep, insight-oriented approach that may integrate EMDR to cultivate self-awareness, freedom from "stuckness,” healing of old wounds, and movement toward authenticity and joy.
One of the hardest tasks life hands us is to find comfort within discomfort. We are constantly faced with hardship, stress, and self-doubt, yet at the same time we strive for well-being, joy, and connection. As a psychologist, I work with clients who seek not only a reduction in emotional distress and a desire to heal old wounds, but to also find their own unique versions of peace, interpersonal growth, and self-value. We can't control what life throws at us, but we can learn how to heal, value ourselves, set boundaries, and find comfort in discomfort.
You can expect a deep, insight-oriented approach that may integrate EMDR to cultivate self-awareness, freedom from "stuckness,” healing of old wounds, and movement toward authenticity and joy.
One of the hardest tasks life hands us is to find comfort within discomfort. We are constantly faced with hardship, stress, and self-doubt, yet at the same time we strive for well-being, joy, and connection. As a psychologist, I work with clients who seek not only a reduction in emotional distress and a desire to heal old wounds, but to also find their own unique versions of peace, interpersonal growth, and self-value. We can't control what life throws at us, but we can learn how to heal, value ourselves, set boundaries, and find comfort in discomfort.
(484) 232-5347 View (484) 232-5347

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Paige Stott-Jung, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paige Stott-Jung
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
I am an LPC with EMDR training that utilize a holistic, integrative approach, exploring the interplay of mental, emotional, social and physical health.
I strive to help individuals find improved emotional and physical health, along with enhanced pleasure, meaning, and purpose in life. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed and want to feel better? Have you experienced trauma or abuse and want to find healing and peace? Are you dissatisfied in relationships, whether with friends, family or coworkers? Are you feeling bored or trapped in your job or career and looking for more fulfillment? Are you dealing with an illness and wanting support? Are you re-evaluating where you are in life and where you want to go?
I am an LPC with EMDR training that utilize a holistic, integrative approach, exploring the interplay of mental, emotional, social and physical health.
I strive to help individuals find improved emotional and physical health, along with enhanced pleasure, meaning, and purpose in life. Are you feeling stressed, anxious, or depressed and want to feel better? Have you experienced trauma or abuse and want to find healing and peace? Are you dissatisfied in relationships, whether with friends, family or coworkers? Are you feeling bored or trapped in your job or career and looking for more fulfillment? Are you dealing with an illness and wanting support? Are you re-evaluating where you are in life and where you want to go?
(610) 854-9356 View (610) 854-9356
Photo of Numra Yaqub, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Numra Yaqub
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bethlehem, PA 18018
I am an EMDR-certified provider, specializing in trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
At some point in their life, an individual may struggle to cope with overwhelming challenges, ranging from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, intrusive thoughts, to trauma or emotional dysregulation. My goal is to equip individuals with a plethora of tools in order to help them manage these life-changing struggles. These tools may include coping strategies, improving social skills, managing intrusive thoughts, or anger management strategies. I am passionate about helping individuals live up to their full potential. I provide individual, couples, family therapy, and I also provide child custody evaluation services.
I am an EMDR-certified provider, specializing in trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, and depression.
At some point in their life, an individual may struggle to cope with overwhelming challenges, ranging from depression, anxiety, grief and loss, intrusive thoughts, to trauma or emotional dysregulation. My goal is to equip individuals with a plethora of tools in order to help them manage these life-changing struggles. These tools may include coping strategies, improving social skills, managing intrusive thoughts, or anger management strategies. I am passionate about helping individuals live up to their full potential. I provide individual, couples, family therapy, and I also provide child custody evaluation services.
(484) 464-0780 View (484) 464-0780
Photo of Aayesha Jan - Mental-Ease, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mental-Ease
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR trained therapist.
Hi! I'm so glad you're taking steps to your own growth. I'd love to be a part of that journey! My style of therapy is focused in rational thinking and empathetic listening. I like to remind my clients to recognize the power they hold in their own lives. I work collaboratively with my clients to increase self-worth and reframe faulty or problematic narratives and patterns. I try to create and maintain an environment of safety and validation to support individuals in overcoming past and/or current obstacles and creating last change in their lives.
I am an EMDR trained therapist.
Hi! I'm so glad you're taking steps to your own growth. I'd love to be a part of that journey! My style of therapy is focused in rational thinking and empathetic listening. I like to remind my clients to recognize the power they hold in their own lives. I work collaboratively with my clients to increase self-worth and reframe faulty or problematic narratives and patterns. I try to create and maintain an environment of safety and validation to support individuals in overcoming past and/or current obstacles and creating last change in their lives.
(610) 795-9870 View (610) 795-9870
Photo of Arti Maharaj, LPC, Counselor
Arti Maharaj
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106  (Online Only)
I employ evidence-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR, and other therapeutic modalities to ensure a comprehensive and tailored approach to your mental well-being.
Greetings! In this practice, I provide a warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space dedicated to offering support. I believe in a client-led approach, empowering you to find your voice. Progress is celebrated in the small steps that accumulate into significant strides throughout the treatment journey. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy to everyone, specializing in providing support to the minority population and thriving in working with intercultural couples and families.
I employ evidence-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR, and other therapeutic modalities to ensure a comprehensive and tailored approach to your mental well-being.
Greetings! In this practice, I provide a warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space dedicated to offering support. I believe in a client-led approach, empowering you to find your voice. Progress is celebrated in the small steps that accumulate into significant strides throughout the treatment journey. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy to everyone, specializing in providing support to the minority population and thriving in working with intercultural couples and families.
(610) 233-1584 View (610) 233-1584
Photo of Kaitlyn Farrell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kaitlyn Farrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Macungie, PA 18062
I offer a wide variety of therapies to assist you in your healing process including internal family systems, EMDR and inner-child work.
Therapy is a journey you and I take together. In times of pain and discomfort, we have the potential to grow into a stronger version of ourselves. My goal as your therapist will be to create a safe space where we can explore ways to decrease distress, so that you can live life feeling lighter and unburdened.
I offer a wide variety of therapies to assist you in your healing process including internal family systems, EMDR and inner-child work.
Therapy is a journey you and I take together. In times of pain and discomfort, we have the potential to grow into a stronger version of ourselves. My goal as your therapist will be to create a safe space where we can explore ways to decrease distress, so that you can live life feeling lighter and unburdened.
(215) 709-7957 View (215) 709-7957
Photo of Nicole Tyson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Tyson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
I use an eclectic, holistic approach that draws from several therapeutic interventions, including being trained in EMDR.
I endeavor to create a compassionate, supportive, non-judgmental setting to help individuals find a healthy balance in life, including physical and mental health, finding peace after experiencing trauma and abuse, and improve their sense of purpose and self-worth in life. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, have experienced trauma/abuse, would like to improve your relationships with others, and/or are experiencing or considering a transition in life, I am ready to help. I enjoy working with adolescents (14+), adults, as well as other clinicians and those preparing to enter the field.
I use an eclectic, holistic approach that draws from several therapeutic interventions, including being trained in EMDR.
I endeavor to create a compassionate, supportive, non-judgmental setting to help individuals find a healthy balance in life, including physical and mental health, finding peace after experiencing trauma and abuse, and improve their sense of purpose and self-worth in life. If you are experiencing stress, anxiety, depression, have experienced trauma/abuse, would like to improve your relationships with others, and/or are experiencing or considering a transition in life, I am ready to help. I enjoy working with adolescents (14+), adults, as well as other clinicians and those preparing to enter the field.
(610) 801-1856 View (610) 801-1856
Photo of Lindsey Tomcics - The Calm Space LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Calm Space LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18104
I am trained in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR.
Do you want a more supportive holistic approach into your mental health struggles? We used to think that mental disorders were not physical disorders. Mind you, this was long ago but the stigma still remains. Some still believe that our symptoms are purely a biochemical imbalance. My belief is focusing on a multidimensional approach exploring all aspects of our current life from our physical and emotional health to our social, spiritual, intellectual, vocational connections and living environment. My hope is to help others reach their full potential by exploring their past traumas, abusive relationships, and grief/loss.
I am trained in CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR.
Do you want a more supportive holistic approach into your mental health struggles? We used to think that mental disorders were not physical disorders. Mind you, this was long ago but the stigma still remains. Some still believe that our symptoms are purely a biochemical imbalance. My belief is focusing on a multidimensional approach exploring all aspects of our current life from our physical and emotional health to our social, spiritual, intellectual, vocational connections and living environment. My hope is to help others reach their full potential by exploring their past traumas, abusive relationships, and grief/loss.
(610) 906-8064 View (610) 906-8064
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Bethlehem
Counselor
Verified Verified
Bethlehem, PA 18018
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.
(484) 759-1012 View (484) 759-1012
Photo of Carolyn Gorski, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Gorski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106
Waitlist for new clients
I offer consultation for those who are pursuing basic training and/or certification in EMDR.
I am a licensed professional counselor, national board certified counselor, EMDRIA certified therapist, & an EMDR consultant for EMDRIA. I have specialized training in evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, & Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR). I am also trained in recent trauma protocols: R-TEP/RISC & the Flash Technique, which combined with EMDR allows for the rapid & painless resolution of traumatic memories. EMDR, R-TEP/RISC & Flash are also successful in treating anxiety, depression, avoidance, phobias, & panic.
I offer consultation for those who are pursuing basic training and/or certification in EMDR.
I am a licensed professional counselor, national board certified counselor, EMDRIA certified therapist, & an EMDR consultant for EMDRIA. I have specialized training in evidence-based treatments, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, & Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR). I am also trained in recent trauma protocols: R-TEP/RISC & the Flash Technique, which combined with EMDR allows for the rapid & painless resolution of traumatic memories. EMDR, R-TEP/RISC & Flash are also successful in treating anxiety, depression, avoidance, phobias, & panic.
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Photo of Leslie M. Chaundy - Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 816-6232 View (610) 816-6232
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.