EMDR Therapists in Grove City, PA

Photo of Carol L Frey, LPC, MS, CLC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol L Frey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, CLC
Verified Verified
Grove City, PA 16127
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems and solution-focused coaching techniques.
I am passionate about helping adolescents, college students and adults in all stages of life to reach their full potential by assisting them in healing from past wounds and developing healthy patterns for the future. I am experienced in treating a wide variety of mental health issues and have helped my clients to heal from depression, anxiety, PSTD, OCD, relational conflicts and trauma related conditions. As well, I have coached clients toward reaching goals of significant weight loss, relationship resolutions, career transitions and reaching other personal goals.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral therapy, EMDR, Internal Family Systems and solution-focused coaching techniques.
I am passionate about helping adolescents, college students and adults in all stages of life to reach their full potential by assisting them in healing from past wounds and developing healthy patterns for the future. I am experienced in treating a wide variety of mental health issues and have helped my clients to heal from depression, anxiety, PSTD, OCD, relational conflicts and trauma related conditions. As well, I have coached clients toward reaching goals of significant weight loss, relationship resolutions, career transitions and reaching other personal goals.
(724) 359-2720 View (724) 359-2720
Photo of Slippery Rock Counseling Services - Slippery Rock Counseling Services
Slippery Rock Counseling Services
Verified Verified
Grove City, PA 16127
Cucunato, LMFT providing psychotherapy services to individuals 14+ and is a fully certified EMDR therapist.
Welcome to Slippery Rock Counseling Services! Are you feeling depressed, lonely, or stressed out? Do you have difficulty managing relationships or daily activities? If you are having these challenges Counseling can help! Making that first call to seek counseling services for you or a family member is often a very difficult decision. Once you have made the commitment to enter counseling you will be paired with a licensed therapist who will work with you during this journey. Together you will explore your past and present concerns, solve the challenges you are facing, and move towards finding balance and peace in life.
Cucunato, LMFT providing psychotherapy services to individuals 14+ and is a fully certified EMDR therapist.
Welcome to Slippery Rock Counseling Services! Are you feeling depressed, lonely, or stressed out? Do you have difficulty managing relationships or daily activities? If you are having these challenges Counseling can help! Making that first call to seek counseling services for you or a family member is often a very difficult decision. Once you have made the commitment to enter counseling you will be paired with a licensed therapist who will work with you during this journey. Together you will explore your past and present concerns, solve the challenges you are facing, and move towards finding balance and peace in life.
(724) 300-1331 View (724) 300-1331
Photo of Susan Sheidy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Sheidy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grove City, PA 16127
At her core, her interventions commonly used are attachment-based therapy, goal-setting, inner child work, differentiation, mindfulness, modeling and EMDR.
Susan Sheidy, LMFT, is the Grace Counseling Services Clinical Director and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Christian Counseling from Liberty University and also received her Master of Arts graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty. She is licensed in Pennsylvania & Tennessee. The late poet Maya Angelou quoted, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you”. This quote holds a powerful message to those interested in a therapeutic relationship.
At her core, her interventions commonly used are attachment-based therapy, goal-setting, inner child work, differentiation, mindfulness, modeling and EMDR.
Susan Sheidy, LMFT, is the Grace Counseling Services Clinical Director and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Christian Counseling from Liberty University and also received her Master of Arts graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Liberty. She is licensed in Pennsylvania & Tennessee. The late poet Maya Angelou quoted, “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you”. This quote holds a powerful message to those interested in a therapeutic relationship.
(615) 455-3920 View (615) 455-3920
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Grove City, PA 16127
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(724) 204-2379 View (724) 204-2379
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Counselor
Verified Verified
Grove City, PA 16127
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website at ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(724) 954-3692 View (724) 954-3692

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Fred P Gallo - Gallo and Associates Psychological Services, PhD, DCEP, Psychologist
Gallo and Associates Psychological Services
Psychologist, PhD, DCEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mercer, PA 16137
We offer Psychological Testing; Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy; Coaching; Energy Psychology; EMDR; CBT; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Hypnosis; Visualization; and Mindfulness.
Hi, I'm Dr. Fred Gallo and I want to Welcome you to Gallo & Associates Psychological Services. We've been in practice since 1977, offering cutting-edge therapy, coaching and evaluations to help individuals, couples, and families. We're passionate about helping people to overcome trauma, PTSD, grief, phobias, anxiety, addiction, depression, chronic pain, and relationship problems. Having published 9 books on brief therapies including Energy Psychology, I also train therapists worldwide in these skills.
We offer Psychological Testing; Individual, Couples, and Family Therapy; Coaching; Energy Psychology; EMDR; CBT; Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Hypnosis; Visualization; and Mindfulness.
Hi, I'm Dr. Fred Gallo and I want to Welcome you to Gallo & Associates Psychological Services. We've been in practice since 1977, offering cutting-edge therapy, coaching and evaluations to help individuals, couples, and families. We're passionate about helping people to overcome trauma, PTSD, grief, phobias, anxiety, addiction, depression, chronic pain, and relationship problems. Having published 9 books on brief therapies including Energy Psychology, I also train therapists worldwide in these skills.
(724) 919-4654 View (724) 919-4654
Photo of Kristin Riding, MA, ATR-BC, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristin Riding
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, ATR-BC, LPC
Verified Verified
Slippery Rock, PA 16057  (Online Only)
My clients are individuals who perhaps have done some work around their trauma but are ready for the next big step towards healing. They are ready to do the work that can come with EMDR or art therapy from a trauma-focused lens. They are ready for the next steps and see huge growth in their healing journey. They're committed and are able to access resources to help cope and process with the heaviness trauma work can bring.
My clients are individuals who perhaps have done some work around their trauma but are ready for the next big step towards healing. They are ready to do the work that can come with EMDR or art therapy from a trauma-focused lens. They are ready for the next steps and see huge growth in their healing journey. They're committed and are able to access resources to help cope and process with the heaviness trauma work can bring.
(412) 618-2455 View (412) 618-2455
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Mercer, PA 16137
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
Christian Counseling Associates (CCA) provides individual, marriage, and family counseling. We serve Christians who want their faith integrated into the counseling process and those holding any beliefs or attitudes toward spirituality. Our counselors will help you identify the core issues that have caused your emotional and personal problems, and immediately develop strategies to resolve these issues. CCA is able to provide a full range of clinical services. Please visit our website www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(724) 916-5247 View (724) 916-5247
Photo of Wendy Beeching, NCC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Beeching
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, NCC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Slippery Rock, PA 16057
I have current openings! We often get advice like “Suck it up”, “Get over it already”, “It’s not that bad”. But, remember, you don’t have to suffer in silence or go it alone. Everyone experiences difficulties. But, sometimes life can feel overwhelming. We can be really hard on ourselves when we just can't get to feeling better, and I would love to help!
I have current openings! We often get advice like “Suck it up”, “Get over it already”, “It’s not that bad”. But, remember, you don’t have to suffer in silence or go it alone. Everyone experiences difficulties. But, sometimes life can feel overwhelming. We can be really hard on ourselves when we just can't get to feeling better, and I would love to help!
(724) 200-8332 View (724) 200-8332
Photo of Kindall Davis - Mindful Tides Therapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mindful Tides Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Slippery Rock, PA 16057  (Online Only)
Mindful Tides Therapy was formed to provide an atmosphere for our clients to individualize their goals. We recognized the decrease in quality client care through the “big box” therapy practices that are owned by those who are not clinicians themselves, and it was important for us to provide a safe space for clients to have input into their treatment plans. Our goal is to aid our clients in finding a secure, collaborative, compassionate, and ethical therapy environment. It is a priority for us to provide our team of therapists with the training and work/life balance they need to practice comfortably.
Mindful Tides Therapy was formed to provide an atmosphere for our clients to individualize their goals. We recognized the decrease in quality client care through the “big box” therapy practices that are owned by those who are not clinicians themselves, and it was important for us to provide a safe space for clients to have input into their treatment plans. Our goal is to aid our clients in finding a secure, collaborative, compassionate, and ethical therapy environment. It is a priority for us to provide our team of therapists with the training and work/life balance they need to practice comfortably.
(724) 576-9996 View (724) 576-9996
Photo of Amanda Pelphrey - AIBDT Psychological Services , PsyD, PhD, LPC, Psychologist
AIBDT Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Slippery Rock, PA 16057
We are here to help you! AIBDT Psychological Services is a large Pittsburgh-based practice available to you through Telehealth. Our seasoned psychologists and therapists have been serving children, adults, and families for 15 years, helping clients overcome life challenges and improve wellbeing. We are here to help you meet your goals and achieve improved mood, relationships, mental health and life satisfaction. It is a privilege to serve you!
We are here to help you! AIBDT Psychological Services is a large Pittsburgh-based practice available to you through Telehealth. Our seasoned psychologists and therapists have been serving children, adults, and families for 15 years, helping clients overcome life challenges and improve wellbeing. We are here to help you meet your goals and achieve improved mood, relationships, mental health and life satisfaction. It is a privilege to serve you!
(724) 538-7811 View (724) 538-7811

Online Therapists

Photo of Liz Peace, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Liz Peace
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Natrona Heights, PA 15065  (Online Only)
I utilize a combination of EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support clients in creating a deeper connection with their authentic selves.
Life is a journey, not a destination- and no one has to travel their path alone. The greatest joy I experience from doing this work is helping people discover and love their authentic selves. I firmly believe that there are no bad people- only bad moments- and those moments do not have to define us. Whether you are struggling with feelings of shame, guilt, or just looking to build a deeper understanding, I am here to walk with you on that journey. My areas of specialization include Autism and ADHD, PTSD, complex trauma, and issues surrounding incarceration.
I utilize a combination of EMDR and Internal Family Systems (IFS) to support clients in creating a deeper connection with their authentic selves.
Life is a journey, not a destination- and no one has to travel their path alone. The greatest joy I experience from doing this work is helping people discover and love their authentic selves. I firmly believe that there are no bad people- only bad moments- and those moments do not have to define us. Whether you are struggling with feelings of shame, guilt, or just looking to build a deeper understanding, I am here to walk with you on that journey. My areas of specialization include Autism and ADHD, PTSD, complex trauma, and issues surrounding incarceration.
(724) 903-5074 View (724) 903-5074
Photo of Jackie Harrison, MEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jackie Harrison
Pre-Licensed Professional, MEd
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206  (Online Only)
I am being trained in EMDR to address trauma and stress.
As a part of therapy, I work with clients to understand themselves and their awareness of their internal world, which can strengthen their relationships with others. We are told a lot of things growing up about who we are. I like to challenge these expectations to explore what values authentically fit for you. What have you outgrown for the person you want to become? Often, we take for granted aspects about our experience, which can be resources of strength in overcoming hardships. I use an integrative approach that takes into account your values, cultural practices, and beliefs in how you view the world and sources of distresses.
I am being trained in EMDR to address trauma and stress.
As a part of therapy, I work with clients to understand themselves and their awareness of their internal world, which can strengthen their relationships with others. We are told a lot of things growing up about who we are. I like to challenge these expectations to explore what values authentically fit for you. What have you outgrown for the person you want to become? Often, we take for granted aspects about our experience, which can be resources of strength in overcoming hardships. I use an integrative approach that takes into account your values, cultural practices, and beliefs in how you view the world and sources of distresses.
(412) 981-2420 View (412) 981-2420
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 Kayla DiPaolo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla DiPaolo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
Waitlist for new clients
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 David Keys - Today Has Purpose, LCSW, MBA, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Today Has Purpose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MBA, CAADC
Verified Verified
Canonsburg, PA 15317
Our approach blends classic constructs of human psychology with modern modalities, and we have training (in the process of full certification) in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), an effective treatment for trauma and other diagnoses.
The staff at Today Has Purpose understands that choosing to acknowledge the need for therapy is a big decision. Therefore, we are committed to ensuring that your experience with us is collaborative, and your goals and pathways are uniquely individualized in order to best help you create a life that is fulfilling and balanced. At Today Has Purpose, we believe in using research and evidence-based treatments to create an individualized pathway that addresses the needs of the whole person. We provide ease of access, integrated support, and a secure environment where you can feel comfortable while navigating your own path to wellness.
Our approach blends classic constructs of human psychology with modern modalities, and we have training (in the process of full certification) in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), an effective treatment for trauma and other diagnoses.
The staff at Today Has Purpose understands that choosing to acknowledge the need for therapy is a big decision. Therefore, we are committed to ensuring that your experience with us is collaborative, and your goals and pathways are uniquely individualized in order to best help you create a life that is fulfilling and balanced. At Today Has Purpose, we believe in using research and evidence-based treatments to create an individualized pathway that addresses the needs of the whole person. We provide ease of access, integrated support, and a secure environment where you can feel comfortable while navigating your own path to wellness.
(878) 333-9084 View (878) 333-9084
Photo of Shanna L. Aughenbaugh, MA,  NCC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shanna L. Aughenbaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Apollo, PA 15613
Waitlist for new clients
I incorporate DBT, CBT, EXRP, & EMDR, however my specialty is EAP (equine-assisted psychotherapy).
Are you feeling lost in your own life? Have you been feeling stressed, worried, anxious, or depressed? Are you in the midst of life challenges and feel unequipped to cope? Have you been hesitant to try counseling and are unsure of what to expect? I would love the opportunity to meet with you and help you discover your strengths and cultivate inner peace. With great care and a gentle approach, I mindfully work to create a safe space and develop meaningful therapeutic relationships with my clients. Let's start the journey together on the path to wellness and a healthier, whole, version of you!
I incorporate DBT, CBT, EXRP, & EMDR, however my specialty is EAP (equine-assisted psychotherapy).
Are you feeling lost in your own life? Have you been feeling stressed, worried, anxious, or depressed? Are you in the midst of life challenges and feel unequipped to cope? Have you been hesitant to try counseling and are unsure of what to expect? I would love the opportunity to meet with you and help you discover your strengths and cultivate inner peace. With great care and a gentle approach, I mindfully work to create a safe space and develop meaningful therapeutic relationships with my clients. Let's start the journey together on the path to wellness and a healthier, whole, version of you!
(878) 203-1998 View (878) 203-1998
Photo of Alexandra Cox - Grounding Tree Therapy, LPC, MA, Counselor
Grounding Tree Therapy
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Moon Township, PA 15108  (Online Only)
I am trained in different techniques like Parts Work and EMDR which can help reduce/eliminate negative beliefs and create a positive outlook and way of thinking.
Accepting New Clients . At Grounding Tree Therapy, I work with adults who feel negatively about themselves. I help navigate feelings and emotions of anxiety and depression that you’ve carried with you since childhood. If you have felt like you aren’t enough or feel like you are failing, let’s talk. We will explore the root cause of the emotions and process situations based on your perspective while being challenged to see outcomes and decisions differently.
I am trained in different techniques like Parts Work and EMDR which can help reduce/eliminate negative beliefs and create a positive outlook and way of thinking.
Accepting New Clients . At Grounding Tree Therapy, I work with adults who feel negatively about themselves. I help navigate feelings and emotions of anxiety and depression that you’ve carried with you since childhood. If you have felt like you aren’t enough or feel like you are failing, let’s talk. We will explore the root cause of the emotions and process situations based on your perspective while being challenged to see outcomes and decisions differently.
(412) 214-8978 View (412) 214-8978
Photo of Dane R Franko, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dane R Franko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I utilize EMDR and resourcing skills to help individuals work through trauma and fixed-states.
Do you feel like your isolated, stuck, out-of-control, depressed, anxious, having difficulty relating to others, drinking/using substances too much, or just lacking a sense of direction/purpose? Do you get the sense that the world is against you or that whatever you do it’s not enough? For 20 years, I have honed my style to support personal growth by helping individuals honor/understand his/her/their style as necessary for survival, while promoting development of newer/adaptive styles that enable meaningful relationships, enhanced self-confidence, meet challenges of aging, life-transitions, grief/loss, trauma, and anger management.
I utilize EMDR and resourcing skills to help individuals work through trauma and fixed-states.
Do you feel like your isolated, stuck, out-of-control, depressed, anxious, having difficulty relating to others, drinking/using substances too much, or just lacking a sense of direction/purpose? Do you get the sense that the world is against you or that whatever you do it’s not enough? For 20 years, I have honed my style to support personal growth by helping individuals honor/understand his/her/their style as necessary for survival, while promoting development of newer/adaptive styles that enable meaningful relationships, enhanced self-confidence, meet challenges of aging, life-transitions, grief/loss, trauma, and anger management.
(412) 503-7551 View (412) 503-7551
Photo of Sarah Hodge - Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anchorpoint Counseling Ministry
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15237
, CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, Strength-based, Trauma-informed, Family Therapy, etc).
We are a charitable nonprofit serving individuals, couples, and families in your community. We serve neighbors of all ages and backgrounds. We are a reliable place to turn for professional support addressing everyday issues and challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, low self-esteem, trauma, abuse, anger, peer pressure, marriage/family problems, and parenting difficulties.
, CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, Strength-based, Trauma-informed, Family Therapy, etc).
We are a charitable nonprofit serving individuals, couples, and families in your community. We serve neighbors of all ages and backgrounds. We are a reliable place to turn for professional support addressing everyday issues and challenges like anxiety, depression, grief, loneliness, low self-esteem, trauma, abuse, anger, peer pressure, marriage/family problems, and parenting difficulties.
(412) 324-3164 View (412) 324-3164

See more therapy options for Grove City

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.