EMDR Therapists in Hermitage, PA

Photo of Stacey Laverock,  LCSW, LISW, CCTP, EAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Laverock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, CCTP, EAP
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
I am certified in EMDR, CCTP, and EAP.
I am the Owner and Founder of MultiPath Counseling LLC. I am an LCSW with 12+ years experience with Mental Health and provide Telehealth Services along with In-office therapy appointments. I have worked in many different Mental Health Settings such as: Residential, IBHS, Drug and Alcohol, and Community Based. Call me to discuss your needs! I also incorporate traditional counseling sessions with Equine Assisted Activities. EAP is an option and is offered at an offsite location (only in Spring / Summer months)!
I am certified in EMDR, CCTP, and EAP.
I am the Owner and Founder of MultiPath Counseling LLC. I am an LCSW with 12+ years experience with Mental Health and provide Telehealth Services along with In-office therapy appointments. I have worked in many different Mental Health Settings such as: Residential, IBHS, Drug and Alcohol, and Community Based. Call me to discuss your needs! I also incorporate traditional counseling sessions with Equine Assisted Activities. EAP is an option and is offered at an offsite location (only in Spring / Summer months)!
(724) 201-3547 View (724) 201-3547
Photo of Clarissa S Arbuckle, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clarissa S Arbuckle
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR is the world's best trauma treatment, backed by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Are you finding that you are stuck in a loop of behavior, thinking, or feeling that is holding you back from achieving peace and happiness? EMDR might be the treatment for you. Solving our own life's riddles can be too complex to handle on our own. Join me in therapy for an authentic exchange of words, a little bit of education, and a treatment that is evidence based and used globally to resolve emotional dysfunction. My goal is to help you show up in the world as your most authentic self, without past wounds grabbing at your attention.
EMDR is the world's best trauma treatment, backed by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Are you finding that you are stuck in a loop of behavior, thinking, or feeling that is holding you back from achieving peace and happiness? EMDR might be the treatment for you. Solving our own life's riddles can be too complex to handle on our own. Join me in therapy for an authentic exchange of words, a little bit of education, and a treatment that is evidence based and used globally to resolve emotional dysfunction. My goal is to help you show up in the world as your most authentic self, without past wounds grabbing at your attention.
(724) 200-8218 View (724) 200-8218
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
Hermitage, PA 16148
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 Michelle Lombardo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Lombardo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermitage, PA 16148
If you are someone who is having a lot of emotional ups and downs, you may feel alone, helpless, mentally/physically exhausted or even struggle to get out of bed. You may be experiencing racing thoughts, feeling overwhelmed or having trouble concentrating. You might have panic attacks or have a difficult time with assertion. Reaching out for help can be difficult. Please know it is typical to feel that way and you are not alone.
If you are someone who is having a lot of emotional ups and downs, you may feel alone, helpless, mentally/physically exhausted or even struggle to get out of bed. You may be experiencing racing thoughts, feeling overwhelmed or having trouble concentrating. You might have panic attacks or have a difficult time with assertion. Reaching out for help can be difficult. Please know it is typical to feel that way and you are not alone.
(724) 580-2568 View (724) 580-2568
Photo of Stephanie Marugg, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Marugg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
My goal as a therapist is to work with you in a way that best fits your values, identity, and needs. To create a sense of safety and respect so you feel free to share struggles and problems and identify your strengths and courage to empower you to make desired life changes.
My goal as a therapist is to work with you in a way that best fits your values, identity, and needs. To create a sense of safety and respect so you feel free to share struggles and problems and identify your strengths and courage to empower you to make desired life changes.
(724) 573-8570 View (724) 573-8570
Photo of Nessa L Smith - Angelus Therapeutic Services Inc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelus Therapeutic Services Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hermitage, PA 16148
Feeling stuck in a constant state of stress & anxiety, heart pounding, stomach clenching, and with a fear that at any moment you could lose control of some aspect of your life. Struggling with sleep, never feeling rested, mood on edge and snapping at those you love. The pain of not understanding what you are feeling & not being able to explain it to others increases feelings of loneliness. Looking for light in the darkness, the ability to walk in a room and not worry about what others are doing, to be able to close your eyes and get a truly restful night sleep, and to feel like you can fully breathe, Counseling can help.
Feeling stuck in a constant state of stress & anxiety, heart pounding, stomach clenching, and with a fear that at any moment you could lose control of some aspect of your life. Struggling with sleep, never feeling rested, mood on edge and snapping at those you love. The pain of not understanding what you are feeling & not being able to explain it to others increases feelings of loneliness. Looking for light in the darkness, the ability to walk in a room and not worry about what others are doing, to be able to close your eyes and get a truly restful night sleep, and to feel like you can fully breathe, Counseling can help.
(724) 654-9555 View (724) 654-9555
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hermitage, PA 16148
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 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 at www.ccawpa.com for a complete description of our faith based counseling services, locations, and counseling staff.
(724) 602-2294 View (724) 602-2294
Photo of Richard Hoffman - Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
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, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Counseling Associates of Western PA
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Hermitage, PA 16148
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.
(814) 501-4909 View (814) 501-4909

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kristy Carnahan, MSEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristy Carnahan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sharon, PA 16146
I am fully trained in EMDR.
Life can be as challenging as it is rewarding. It is often useful to have a professional source of support when working through those challenges. If you are considering seeking counseling services and believe that a warm, caring, and nonjudgmental environment would be helpful in reaching your goals, I may be the right therapist for you. Whether you are facing a specific issue, such as difficulty in dealing with a traumatic experience, a mental health issue, relationships, divorce, or grief, or if you would like some general guidance in exploring options for personal growth, I am here to help.
I am fully trained in EMDR.
Life can be as challenging as it is rewarding. It is often useful to have a professional source of support when working through those challenges. If you are considering seeking counseling services and believe that a warm, caring, and nonjudgmental environment would be helpful in reaching your goals, I may be the right therapist for you. Whether you are facing a specific issue, such as difficulty in dealing with a traumatic experience, a mental health issue, relationships, divorce, or grief, or if you would like some general guidance in exploring options for personal growth, I am here to help.
(412) 924-8483 View (412) 924-8483
Photo of Ashley Harlan, MS Ed, LPC, CAADC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Harlan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS Ed, LPC, CAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Wilmington, PA 16142  (Online Only)
What you want in treatment is important! I am trained in treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello! I am licensed professional counselor and certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor who specializes in working with adolescents and young adults who have experienced trauma, substance use, life stressors and transitions, depression, and anxiety. I have extensive education and experience in treating adjudicated and dependent adolescents who struggle with substance use and mental health related concerns. have also found a passion for working with young adults who wish to improve boundaries and build self-esteem.
What you want in treatment is important! I am trained in treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Motivational Interviewing.
Hello! I am licensed professional counselor and certified advanced alcohol and drug counselor who specializes in working with adolescents and young adults who have experienced trauma, substance use, life stressors and transitions, depression, and anxiety. I have extensive education and experience in treating adjudicated and dependent adolescents who struggle with substance use and mental health related concerns. have also found a passion for working with young adults who wish to improve boundaries and build self-esteem.
(724) 862-4826 View (724) 862-4826

Online Therapists

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 Paige Malnofsky - LuminaPath Counseling and Wellness, LLC, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LuminaPath Counseling and Wellness, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15229
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) is a specific technique used in trauma-based counseling to help individuals process and cope with their traumatic experiences on their journey.
Embarking on a mental health journey is like setting sail on a voyage of self-discovery. It's a path filled with twists and turns highs and lows but ultimately leads to a deeper understanding of oneself. Along the way you may encounter challenges that test your strength and resilience but also moments of growth and healing. Remember it's okay to seek help and support from others as you navigate this journey. Stay true to yourself be kind to your mind and trust that with time and effort you can find peace and balance within.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) is a specific technique used in trauma-based counseling to help individuals process and cope with their traumatic experiences on their journey.
Embarking on a mental health journey is like setting sail on a voyage of self-discovery. It's a path filled with twists and turns highs and lows but ultimately leads to a deeper understanding of oneself. Along the way you may encounter challenges that test your strength and resilience but also moments of growth and healing. Remember it's okay to seek help and support from others as you navigate this journey. Stay true to yourself be kind to your mind and trust that with time and effort you can find peace and balance within.
(412) 725-2534 View (412) 725-2534
Photo of Jennifer Eldridge - Dr. Eldridge & Associates, PhD, LCSW, LPC, Psychologist
Dr. Eldridge & Associates
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Wexford, PA 15090
These modes include family therapy, individual therapy, art and play therapy, EMDR, among other therapeutic approaches.
We are accepting new clients (In-Person and Telehealth). We have a small, welcoming group practice consisting of therapists with many years of experience and a broad range of expertise in treating children, adolescents, and adults. Our therapists understand and work with individuals from all walks of life and enjoy assisting them with their mental health goals. Together we develop a treatment plan that best fits our clients’ needs and desires for living a better life. Our office is comfortable and home-like in its furnishings and decor. Our therapists are licensed in Ohio and West Virginia as well as Pennsylvania.
These modes include family therapy, individual therapy, art and play therapy, EMDR, among other therapeutic approaches.
We are accepting new clients (In-Person and Telehealth). We have a small, welcoming group practice consisting of therapists with many years of experience and a broad range of expertise in treating children, adolescents, and adults. Our therapists understand and work with individuals from all walks of life and enjoy assisting them with their mental health goals. Together we develop a treatment plan that best fits our clients’ needs and desires for living a better life. Our office is comfortable and home-like in its furnishings and decor. Our therapists are licensed in Ohio and West Virginia as well as Pennsylvania.
(724) 573-3713 View (724) 573-3713
Photo of Kate Rudd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Rudd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
While I use a mix of protocols, I find EMDR is most effective for a variety of people and the issues they experience.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life events and transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help moving forward. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity and courage.
While I use a mix of protocols, I find EMDR is most effective for a variety of people and the issues they experience.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life events and transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help moving forward. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity and courage.
(412) 385-6744 View (412) 385-6744
Photo of Emily Yelling, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Yelling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bridgeville, PA 15017
I am a trauma informed therapist with training in EMDR.
The goal for all of my clients is to find peace within themselves and begin living a life that they choose. Life circumstances can strip us of our authentic selves and I am here to help you explore and welcome a path of personal wholeness and self acceptance. My approach to therapy is holistic and consists primarily of cognitive behavioral therapy, somatic techniques, self-compassion, and mindfulness. Whether it is mental health, addiction, an unhealthy relationship, stress, trauma or something else, I understand the importance of working with the mind, body and spirit in order to experience complete healing.
I am a trauma informed therapist with training in EMDR.
The goal for all of my clients is to find peace within themselves and begin living a life that they choose. Life circumstances can strip us of our authentic selves and I am here to help you explore and welcome a path of personal wholeness and self acceptance. My approach to therapy is holistic and consists primarily of cognitive behavioral therapy, somatic techniques, self-compassion, and mindfulness. Whether it is mental health, addiction, an unhealthy relationship, stress, trauma or something else, I understand the importance of working with the mind, body and spirit in order to experience complete healing.
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Photo of Doug Harshberger, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Doug Harshberger
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15211
I am also partially trained in EMDR to help address trauma.
I work from a humanistic framework, which means my role as a therapist is to help you find opportunities for growth and self awareness while providing support and understanding. You are a whole person with unique experiences, feelings, and strengths, and I believe you have expertise in your experience - I will follow your lead on areas you would like to work on in therapy. I enjoy helping clients explore ways to implement positive growth in their lives, especially in finding meaning after the loss of a loved one, overcoming trauma, reducing depression or anxiety, or facing a period of change.
I am also partially trained in EMDR to help address trauma.
I work from a humanistic framework, which means my role as a therapist is to help you find opportunities for growth and self awareness while providing support and understanding. You are a whole person with unique experiences, feelings, and strengths, and I believe you have expertise in your experience - I will follow your lead on areas you would like to work on in therapy. I enjoy helping clients explore ways to implement positive growth in their lives, especially in finding meaning after the loss of a loved one, overcoming trauma, reducing depression or anxiety, or facing a period of change.
(412) 435-5186 View (412) 435-5186
Photo of Rebecca Pollack, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Pollack
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15217
I am an EMDR trained clinician, a Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator and trained in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
I have many years of experience working with adolescents and their families, adults, and couples throughout a variety of life stages. I am passionate about treating women who are struggling with infertility, postpartum depression, anxiety and/or OCD as well as other transitional issues that can occur throughout the perinatal period. I also work with individuals dealing with general depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder.
I am an EMDR trained clinician, a Circle of Security Parenting Facilitator and trained in Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions (SPACE).
I have many years of experience working with adolescents and their families, adults, and couples throughout a variety of life stages. I am passionate about treating women who are struggling with infertility, postpartum depression, anxiety and/or OCD as well as other transitional issues that can occur throughout the perinatal period. I also work with individuals dealing with general depression, anxiety, trauma, grief and loss, OCD, and Bipolar Disorder.
(412) 912-2840 View (412) 912-2840
Photo of Samantha J Lacy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha J Lacy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (trauma-based therapy) primarily, though also pull concepts from other modalities.
Are you currently living your best life? Are you living your truth? Or maybe events from your past and/or present are weighing on you and you're not sure what to do at this point or where to turn. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who prides myself on my ability to help others achieve their therapeutic goals and be the best version of themselves. I have over 18 years of experience in the field of psychology, and have worked in many different settings such as partial hospital, IBHS, Social Skills programming, school settings, and Outpatient MH. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (trauma-based therapy) primarily, though also pull concepts from other modalities.
Are you currently living your best life? Are you living your truth? Or maybe events from your past and/or present are weighing on you and you're not sure what to do at this point or where to turn. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who prides myself on my ability to help others achieve their therapeutic goals and be the best version of themselves. I have over 18 years of experience in the field of psychology, and have worked in many different settings such as partial hospital, IBHS, Social Skills programming, school settings, and Outpatient MH. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults.
(412) 790-2059 View (412) 790-2059
Photo of Tara Pannell - Manifest Psychotherapy and Wellness, LPC, LCSW, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Manifest Psychotherapy and Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15218
At Manifest, we have therapists who specialize in a variety of modalities ranging from CBT, DBT, and EMDR trained and certified therapists, to therapists who offer body oriented, spiritually informed, and depth psychology approaches. Whether you are looking to explore and take an in depth look at your own capacity for healing and awakening, or looking for outcomes based therapies to resolve psychological and emotional blockages, triggers, or traumas that are standing in the way, we are here to help support you in meeting your needs.
At Manifest, we have therapists who specialize in a variety of modalities ranging from CBT, DBT, and EMDR trained and certified therapists, to therapists who offer body oriented, spiritually informed, and depth psychology approaches. Whether you are looking to explore and take an in depth look at your own capacity for healing and awakening, or looking for outcomes based therapies to resolve psychological and emotional blockages, triggers, or traumas that are standing in the way, we are here to help support you in meeting your needs.
(412) 275-6954 View (412) 275-6954

See more therapy options for Hermitage

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.