EMDR Therapists in Greensburg, PA

Photo of Hillary Smith, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hillary Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
Have you experienced a life shattering event that changed the way you looked at yourself? Trauma impacts us in many ways & makes us feel disconnected from who we truly are and what we really want out of our lives. The World Health Organization recommends EMDR therapy as an effective treatment for trauma. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy that uses bilateral stimulation to process traumatic events in a more adaptive manner & can alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress, anxiety, etc.
Have you experienced a life shattering event that changed the way you looked at yourself? Trauma impacts us in many ways & makes us feel disconnected from who we truly are and what we really want out of our lives. The World Health Organization recommends EMDR therapy as an effective treatment for trauma. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy that uses bilateral stimulation to process traumatic events in a more adaptive manner & can alleviate symptoms of post-traumatic stress, anxiety, etc.
(724) 382-8266 View (724) 382-8266
Photo of Rick Marsili - Connections Counseling of Western Pennsylvania, M Div, MS, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Connections Counseling of Western Pennsylvania
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Div, MS, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. In particular, I work with individuals (and their families) impacted by traumatic stress. I would describe traumatic stress as an "unhealed wound." These wounds can manifest themselves in disruptive behaviors, defiance, anxiety, depression, struggles with focus, aggression, self-injury, perfectionism and substance use. When wounds are triggered it is common for the person to engage in a fight, flight, or freeze response. The trauma oriented work that I offer assists people of all ages to engage in more effective responses to their wounds. The fight, flight, or freeze response goes away.
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
I enjoy working with children, adolescents, families, and adults. In particular, I work with individuals (and their families) impacted by traumatic stress. I would describe traumatic stress as an "unhealed wound." These wounds can manifest themselves in disruptive behaviors, defiance, anxiety, depression, struggles with focus, aggression, self-injury, perfectionism and substance use. When wounds are triggered it is common for the person to engage in a fight, flight, or freeze response. The trauma oriented work that I offer assists people of all ages to engage in more effective responses to their wounds. The fight, flight, or freeze response goes away.
(878) 205-0954 View (878) 205-0954
Photo of Rose Marie Nehls, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rose Marie Nehls
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): the highly effective technique for trauma treatment.
Are you depressed due to difficulties in your current relationship? Do you have a history of physical, sexual or verbal abuse? Do you find yourself isolating out of fear of being hurt again? If you are struggeling in these areas I have extensive training in women's and men's issues and can help with restoring your self esteem and the balance in your life. Some of the difficulties that you may be facing can also stem from the loss of someone important in your life. As a certified grief counselor I will provide guidance and encouragement during this difficult time.
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): the highly effective technique for trauma treatment.
Are you depressed due to difficulties in your current relationship? Do you have a history of physical, sexual or verbal abuse? Do you find yourself isolating out of fear of being hurt again? If you are struggeling in these areas I have extensive training in women's and men's issues and can help with restoring your self esteem and the balance in your life. Some of the difficulties that you may be facing can also stem from the loss of someone important in your life. As a certified grief counselor I will provide guidance and encouragement during this difficult time.
(724) 964-7024 View (724) 964-7024
Photo of Morgan Paul, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan Paul
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
I also specialize in trauma and I am trained in TFCBT and EMDR.
Healing isn’t easy & taking the first step of seeking a therapist takes a lot of courage. Healing involves being patient & kind with yourself, along with stepping out of your comfort zone in order to talk about tough things so you can grow. Often in life we are faced with many challenges and feel like we are just stuck. My role as your therapist is to help you sort out these emotions and experiences that have you feeling like you are hitting a wall. Together we will work to identify unhealthy patterns and develop skills to help you take control of your life.
I also specialize in trauma and I am trained in TFCBT and EMDR.
Healing isn’t easy & taking the first step of seeking a therapist takes a lot of courage. Healing involves being patient & kind with yourself, along with stepping out of your comfort zone in order to talk about tough things so you can grow. Often in life we are faced with many challenges and feel like we are just stuck. My role as your therapist is to help you sort out these emotions and experiences that have you feeling like you are hitting a wall. Together we will work to identify unhealthy patterns and develop skills to help you take control of your life.
(724) 264-3283 View (724) 264-3283
Photo of Krystal Edgreen, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Krystal Edgreen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
I provide EMDR therapy and specialize in trauma-related disorders.
We all need support at times and be proud of yourself for reaching out as it can be difficult. Stress, anxiety, depression, and trouble with life situations can lead to less satisfaction with life. Sometimes having healthy relationships and boundaries are difficult to achieve and having some help can make the process easier. I work with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, autism and ADHD.
I provide EMDR therapy and specialize in trauma-related disorders.
We all need support at times and be proud of yourself for reaching out as it can be difficult. Stress, anxiety, depression, and trouble with life situations can lead to less satisfaction with life. Sometimes having healthy relationships and boundaries are difficult to achieve and having some help can make the process easier. I work with people who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma-related disorders, autism and ADHD.
(412) 844-5565 View (412) 844-5565
Photo of Ann Dittmar - Dittmar Counseling Services with med management, LCSW
Dittmar Counseling Services with med management
LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
We also have a therapist trained and certified in the use of EMDR, a relatively new treatment for traumatized individuals.
Dittmar Counseling Services has been providing therapy to individuals from communities throughout Westmoreland County since 2009. From its inception, treatment for adults, adolescents, families and couples in a quiet, private setting has enabled us to create a safe environment for the development of productive therapeutic relationships to occur. Because of the practice’s growth, we have been able to include adult psychiatric medication management for individuals needing medicinal intervention as well. We continue to offer flexible hours for appointments during the week.
We also have a therapist trained and certified in the use of EMDR, a relatively new treatment for traumatized individuals.
Dittmar Counseling Services has been providing therapy to individuals from communities throughout Westmoreland County since 2009. From its inception, treatment for adults, adolescents, families and couples in a quiet, private setting has enabled us to create a safe environment for the development of productive therapeutic relationships to occur. Because of the practice’s growth, we have been able to include adult psychiatric medication management for individuals needing medicinal intervention as well. We continue to offer flexible hours for appointments during the week.
(724) 200-8599 View (724) 200-8599
Photo of Shanna Handzus - Choices Clinical Counseling-Accepting New Clients!, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Choices Clinical Counseling-Accepting New Clients!
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
We specialize in CBT and EMDR therapies, providing you an environment of compassion & non-judgment.
At Choices, we prioritize you while providing top-tier clinical care in your journey towards wellness. Choices is composed of compassionate and experienced therapists. We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma. Whether in person or online you can trust that you will receive unmatched care and privacy. We care and it shows!
We specialize in CBT and EMDR therapies, providing you an environment of compassion & non-judgment.
At Choices, we prioritize you while providing top-tier clinical care in your journey towards wellness. Choices is composed of compassionate and experienced therapists. We specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma. Whether in person or online you can trust that you will receive unmatched care and privacy. We care and it shows!
(724) 530-3155 View (724) 530-3155
Photo of Kayla DiPaolo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla DiPaolo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
Specializing in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy(EMDR), I offer an effective method to addressing trauma.
Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, or the weight of past experiences? My ideal clients are individuals seeking solace and growth. They desire healing from emotional wounds, increased resilience, and a secure haven to unravel their thoughts and feelings to achieve grounding themselves in the present. Together, we'll work towards understanding your unique journey, unlocking the potential for healing, and fostering a path to emotional well-being.
Specializing in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy(EMDR), I offer an effective method to addressing trauma.
Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, or the weight of past experiences? My ideal clients are individuals seeking solace and growth. They desire healing from emotional wounds, increased resilience, and a secure haven to unravel their thoughts and feelings to achieve grounding themselves in the present. Together, we'll work towards understanding your unique journey, unlocking the potential for healing, and fostering a path to emotional well-being.
(878) 203-9331 View (878) 203-9331
Photo of Debra Stoll, LPC, NCC, CEAT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debra Stoll
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CEAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
I am proficient in the use of Expressive Arts therapy and EMDR therapy seeing remarkable results in traumatized individuals.
We are all born with purpose, meaning and the unique capacity to live abundantly. Yet, life stressors and other environmental factors create obstacles that seem to produce insurmountable barriers to achieving one's dreams of a happy and fulfilling life. Choosing a psychotherapist to help clear the obstacles out of the way is an important first step in discovering one's authentic self and living life purposefully. My approach to therapy is holistic, person-centered, trauma-informed, and depth oriented with the goal being authentic self-discovery.
I am proficient in the use of Expressive Arts therapy and EMDR therapy seeing remarkable results in traumatized individuals.
We are all born with purpose, meaning and the unique capacity to live abundantly. Yet, life stressors and other environmental factors create obstacles that seem to produce insurmountable barriers to achieving one's dreams of a happy and fulfilling life. Choosing a psychotherapist to help clear the obstacles out of the way is an important first step in discovering one's authentic self and living life purposefully. My approach to therapy is holistic, person-centered, trauma-informed, and depth oriented with the goal being authentic self-discovery.
(724) 202-0351 View (724) 202-0351
Photo of Katie Kerr, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Kerr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
Waitlist for new clients
I use a blend of powerful approaches like EMDR, Parts Work, and Attachment Theory in addition to an overall holistic approach.
Stuck in a therapy rut? Feeling like you're going in circles, rehashing the same stuff week after week? You're not alone. Let's ditch the damn cycle and dig deep into what's really holding you back. We'll uncover the shit that's causing your reactions and empower you to take control. I'm not here for surface-level therapy. I want to dive deep with you, marinate in the tough stuff, and unearth the power you've always had to make changes in your life. I’ll support you every step of the way, and yes, I'll lovingly call you on your shit when you need it. Think of me as your therapist co-pilot, ready to navigate this journey together.
I use a blend of powerful approaches like EMDR, Parts Work, and Attachment Theory in addition to an overall holistic approach.
Stuck in a therapy rut? Feeling like you're going in circles, rehashing the same stuff week after week? You're not alone. Let's ditch the damn cycle and dig deep into what's really holding you back. We'll uncover the shit that's causing your reactions and empower you to take control. I'm not here for surface-level therapy. I want to dive deep with you, marinate in the tough stuff, and unearth the power you've always had to make changes in your life. I’ll support you every step of the way, and yes, I'll lovingly call you on your shit when you need it. Think of me as your therapist co-pilot, ready to navigate this journey together.
(724) 414-6631 View (724) 414-6631
Photo of Eve Yelinek, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Eve Yelinek
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
Also, I am fully trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Since therapy is about connection, finding the right fit for you is important. I aim to make this process more comfortable. I provide a safe and confidential environment. I have my Master of Art degree in Counseling with specialization in Clinical Mental Health. I am currently working on my doctorate in Psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. Among my areas of training and experience are the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, complex trauma, PTSD, dissociative disorders, and women’s issues.
Also, I am fully trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Since therapy is about connection, finding the right fit for you is important. I aim to make this process more comfortable. I provide a safe and confidential environment. I have my Master of Art degree in Counseling with specialization in Clinical Mental Health. I am currently working on my doctorate in Psychology. I am a licensed professional counselor in the state of Pennsylvania. Among my areas of training and experience are the treatment of anxiety, depression, mood disorders, complex trauma, PTSD, dissociative disorders, and women’s issues.
(878) 206-1491 View (878) 206-1491
Photo of Christy Sherman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christy Sherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
I am trained in EMDR and utilize this highly effective evidence based protocol for treating trauma based issues.
Now accepting new clients! As a therapist I believe all people have the inherent strength to make positive life changes and often just need empowered through compassionate support. We all have times in our lives when we get stuck in our relationships and just need new effective ways of coping and communicating. I practice from a trauma focused and structural family perspective. I have been very successful in helping couples, families, individuals, and adolescents make positive changes that have lead to feelings of peace, healing, a sense of personal accomplishment, and problem resolution.
I am trained in EMDR and utilize this highly effective evidence based protocol for treating trauma based issues.
Now accepting new clients! As a therapist I believe all people have the inherent strength to make positive life changes and often just need empowered through compassionate support. We all have times in our lives when we get stuck in our relationships and just need new effective ways of coping and communicating. I practice from a trauma focused and structural family perspective. I have been very successful in helping couples, families, individuals, and adolescents make positive changes that have lead to feelings of peace, healing, a sense of personal accomplishment, and problem resolution.
(724) 565-8584 View (724) 565-8584
Photo of Tayler Flores, MS, LPC, NCC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tayler Flores
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
While individuals are often aware of the many twists and turns life can take them, they are often led to believe that they must travel these paths alone. Life can bring about a variety of emotions including anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, shame, embarrassment, etc. that can negatively impact the view we have of ourselves and the world around us. Allow me to provide you with support along your journey. - I specialize in Perinatal Mental Health and I am also partially trained in EMDR.
While individuals are often aware of the many twists and turns life can take them, they are often led to believe that they must travel these paths alone. Life can bring about a variety of emotions including anxiety, depression, anger, guilt, shame, embarrassment, etc. that can negatively impact the view we have of ourselves and the world around us. Allow me to provide you with support along your journey. - I specialize in Perinatal Mental Health and I am also partially trained in EMDR.
(724) 399-3746 View (724) 399-3746
Photo of Jill Stockmal Bennett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Stockmal Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601  (Online Only)
We’ll utilize techniques like EMDR to reprocess the troubling life events you’re still struggling with.
You were sitting quietly, minding your own business, when the panic hit. Suddenly you’re right back where you were, experiencing that frightening event as if for the first time. You can’t breathe, every muscle in your body tightens, and your stomach does somersaults. It’s so disturbing to feel this way that you’ve begun to avoid unpredictable situations. As a result, you find your life getting smaller and more limited by the day. And despite your best attempts to navigate around these feelings, they still flood back without warning or provocation. You wonder if you’ll ever return to being who you were before this happened to you.
We’ll utilize techniques like EMDR to reprocess the troubling life events you’re still struggling with.
You were sitting quietly, minding your own business, when the panic hit. Suddenly you’re right back where you were, experiencing that frightening event as if for the first time. You can’t breathe, every muscle in your body tightens, and your stomach does somersaults. It’s so disturbing to feel this way that you’ve begun to avoid unpredictable situations. As a result, you find your life getting smaller and more limited by the day. And despite your best attempts to navigate around these feelings, they still flood back without warning or provocation. You wonder if you’ll ever return to being who you were before this happened to you.
(475) 256-5833 View (475) 256-5833
Ann Flaherty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
I am trained in a few specialty areas including EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and the Gottman Method.
I want you to discover answers to your questions, obtain tools for your troubles, and clear a path for your journey. I have over 32 years of experience working with individuals and families, assisting them with solving problems at home, within and between families, at work and in relationships. I provide talk therapy via telehealth, some limited in-person sessions, and
I am trained in a few specialty areas including EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and the Gottman Method.
I want you to discover answers to your questions, obtain tools for your troubles, and clear a path for your journey. I have over 32 years of experience working with individuals and families, assisting them with solving problems at home, within and between families, at work and in relationships. I provide talk therapy via telehealth, some limited in-person sessions, and
(412) 802-9445 View (412) 802-9445
Photo of Adam Kleinman - Choices Clinical Counseling-Accepting New Clients!, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Choices Clinical Counseling-Accepting New Clients!
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
Experience specialized care at Choices with outpatient therapists skilled in CBT and EMDR therapies.
Start your healing journey with Choices. Experience top-tier care from the best clinical staff in the area. Whether it's depression, anxiety, or trauma, our family-owned practice is committed to guiding you towards your goals. Make the right choice for your mental health. Feel the difference that personalized, high-quality therapy can make. You matter to us because your mental health is our top priority.
Experience specialized care at Choices with outpatient therapists skilled in CBT and EMDR therapies.
Start your healing journey with Choices. Experience top-tier care from the best clinical staff in the area. Whether it's depression, anxiety, or trauma, our family-owned practice is committed to guiding you towards your goals. Make the right choice for your mental health. Feel the difference that personalized, high-quality therapy can make. You matter to us because your mental health is our top priority.
(814) 258-1500 View (814) 258-1500
Photo of Diane Elliot McHirella, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diane Elliot McHirella
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601  (Online Only)
Other specialties: Certified EMDR Therapist, Play Therapy (RPT-S), Parenting Skills, Supervision of Clinicians for the LPC and Play Therapy.
Hello & Welcome! With over 25 years of experience in counseling with folks of varying backgrounds, I am honored to walk the path of the Counseling Journey with you. Our work & play together will allow you to further discover the strengths & resources you already have, while using these innate abilities to work with the growing edges you may wish to explore. I work in tandem with clients, parents & families as a guide, helping you to understand the ways you are the expert on your own life. Together, we will engage in an authentic therapeutic relationship to enhance your life & well-being. Helpful info: EMDRIA.org & dnmsinstitute.com
Other specialties: Certified EMDR Therapist, Play Therapy (RPT-S), Parenting Skills, Supervision of Clinicians for the LPC and Play Therapy.
Hello & Welcome! With over 25 years of experience in counseling with folks of varying backgrounds, I am honored to walk the path of the Counseling Journey with you. Our work & play together will allow you to further discover the strengths & resources you already have, while using these innate abilities to work with the growing edges you may wish to explore. I work in tandem with clients, parents & families as a guide, helping you to understand the ways you are the expert on your own life. Together, we will engage in an authentic therapeutic relationship to enhance your life & well-being. Helpful info: EMDRIA.org & dnmsinstitute.com
(412) 328-2929 View (412) 328-2929
Photo of Starlene Delp, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Starlene Delp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601  (Online Only)
My name is Starlene but I prefer Star and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults mostly within the focus areas of depression, anxiety, stage of life transitions, and stress management, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other coping skills gathered from DBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR to help my clients find what skills work best for their needs.
My name is Starlene but I prefer Star and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults mostly within the focus areas of depression, anxiety, stage of life transitions, and stress management, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other coping skills gathered from DBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR to help my clients find what skills work best for their needs.
(717) 402-8787 View (717) 402-8787
Photo of Nashonne Watson, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Nashonne Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Nashonne Watson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Pennsylvania. In my work, I use an eclectic approach combining my 13 years of counseling experience and evidence-based practice to create a safe space for you to allow yourself to be vulnerable and grow. Over the years I have completed certifications in trauma counseling, spirituality-based counseling, and perinatal treatment. In addition, I am trained in DBT for adults and adolescents, CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and am presently training in Brainspotting.
Hello, I'm Nashonne Watson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Pennsylvania. In my work, I use an eclectic approach combining my 13 years of counseling experience and evidence-based practice to create a safe space for you to allow yourself to be vulnerable and grow. Over the years I have completed certifications in trauma counseling, spirituality-based counseling, and perinatal treatment. In addition, I am trained in DBT for adults and adolescents, CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and am presently training in Brainspotting.
(717) 408-6682 View (717) 408-6682
Photo of Elizabeth Polovina, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Polovina
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601  (Online Only)
I draw from various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, mindfulness, and humanistic approaches to tailor our sessions to your specific needs.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Polovina, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My approach to therapy is centered around creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I believe in the power of collaboration, and I aim to work together with you to identify your goals and challenges. My practice focuses on a holistic understanding of each individual, recognizing that everyone has unique experiences and perspectives.
I draw from various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, mindfulness, and humanistic approaches to tailor our sessions to your specific needs.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Polovina, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My approach to therapy is centered around creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I believe in the power of collaboration, and I aim to work together with you to identify your goals and challenges. My practice focuses on a holistic understanding of each individual, recognizing that everyone has unique experiences and perspectives.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
1
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.