EMDR Therapists in Kutztown, PA

Photo of Laura Bauder, LPC, CAADC, ATR-BC, CCTP, EMDR-PT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Bauder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, ATR-BC, CCTP, EMDR-PT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kutztown, PA 19530  (Online Only)
Overcome trauma through EMDR and/or art therapy/talk therapy.
Overcome trauma through EMDR and/or art therapy/talk therapy.
(484) 991-4528 View (484) 991-4528
Photo of Tom Post Jr - Tom Post Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tom Post Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kutztown, PA 19530  (Online Only)
One therapy method is EMDR therapy, but other options can be utilized based on your needs.
I love what I do, and I know why I do it. Since 2007 my focus has been coming along side of people and assisting them with challenges they face in life to become the most authentic and genuine person they were meant to be. In my own journey I've come to accept and appreciate the gifts I've been given, even if they're seemingly unrelated. I love my work as a therapist and I will always be passionate about performing music. How the two coexist within me is the journey I'm on. My focus has been in becoming a better therapist each day ... but I also know I'll never stop playing guitar and performing music, it's part of who I am.
One therapy method is EMDR therapy, but other options can be utilized based on your needs.
I love what I do, and I know why I do it. Since 2007 my focus has been coming along side of people and assisting them with challenges they face in life to become the most authentic and genuine person they were meant to be. In my own journey I've come to accept and appreciate the gifts I've been given, even if they're seemingly unrelated. I love my work as a therapist and I will always be passionate about performing music. How the two coexist within me is the journey I'm on. My focus has been in becoming a better therapist each day ... but I also know I'll never stop playing guitar and performing music, it's part of who I am.
(484) 725-6382 View (484) 725-6382
Photo of Cheryl Wilson-Smith - Advanced Counseling and Research Services, LPC, LMHC-FL, CCMHC, CCTP, CT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Advanced Counseling and Research Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC-FL, CCMHC, CCTP, CT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kutztown, PA 19530
Advanced Counseling and Research Services provides a comprehensive array of professional counseling services to the greater Lancaster community. In general terms, these clinical services help clients address problematic issues in their lives that are impacting on their daily lives. Throughout the counseling experience, the counselor and client work collaboratively to address problems presented by the client. The overall purpose of counseling can be summarized in the following objectives: To identify the problematic issues facing each individual client seeking counseling. To identify secondary issues contributing to problem.
Advanced Counseling and Research Services provides a comprehensive array of professional counseling services to the greater Lancaster community. In general terms, these clinical services help clients address problematic issues in their lives that are impacting on their daily lives. Throughout the counseling experience, the counselor and client work collaboratively to address problems presented by the client. The overall purpose of counseling can be summarized in the following objectives: To identify the problematic issues facing each individual client seeking counseling. To identify secondary issues contributing to problem.
(717) 964-8581 View (717) 964-8581
Photo of Jess Adam, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jess Adam
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kutztown, PA 19530  (Online Only)
What would it feel like to be unconditionally supported, the way you support others? What would change if you had someone that walked alongside you, offering skills, safety, and a healthy dose of humor along the way? If you’re curious about the answers to these questions, I invite you to schedule a consultation to see if we might be a good fit - especially if you are a caregiver yourself. I specialize in "supporting the supporters". Whether you are a parent, caring for a family member, or otherwise in a caregiving role - I understand the deep exhaustion that can come from all you give to others.
What would it feel like to be unconditionally supported, the way you support others? What would change if you had someone that walked alongside you, offering skills, safety, and a healthy dose of humor along the way? If you’re curious about the answers to these questions, I invite you to schedule a consultation to see if we might be a good fit - especially if you are a caregiver yourself. I specialize in "supporting the supporters". Whether you are a parent, caring for a family member, or otherwise in a caregiving role - I understand the deep exhaustion that can come from all you give to others.
(610) 795-5309 View (610) 795-5309

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ina L. Gould, MS,  MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ina L. Gould
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Fleetwood, PA 19522
As a trauma informed therapist, I work with individuals to heal trauma and also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy for clients who choose.
I believe counseling can be one of the most amazing and transformational experiences of your life when you feel validated, safe, and supported to explore your life’s struggles. My primary goal in every session is that each of my clients feel safe and supported so that they have the opportunity to realize and achieve the goals they set out and want for their lives. Sometimes that means walking down some difficult paths. I walk alongside each of my clients providing support through this struggle.
As a trauma informed therapist, I work with individuals to heal trauma and also offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy for clients who choose.
I believe counseling can be one of the most amazing and transformational experiences of your life when you feel validated, safe, and supported to explore your life’s struggles. My primary goal in every session is that each of my clients feel safe and supported so that they have the opportunity to realize and achieve the goals they set out and want for their lives. Sometimes that means walking down some difficult paths. I walk alongside each of my clients providing support through this struggle.
(610) 686-9846 View (610) 686-9846
Photo of Leslie M. Chaundy - Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Mind Matters Counseling & Psychological Assocs
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 816-6232 View (610) 816-6232
Photo of Leslie M Chaundy - Mind Matters , PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP, Psychologist
Mind Matters
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW, NCSP, ABSNP
Verified Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
Our vision at Mind Matters Coaching, Counseling & Psychological Associates, LLC is to help bring growth, healing, and peace of mind to people who struggle with matters of the mind. We have caring, compassionate, experienced, credentialed, and licensed professionals who are both doctoral level psychologists and master's level clinicians. We provide individual, family, and couples counseling, life coaching, child and adolescent therapy, EMDR, educational, psychological, and forensic testing and evaluations, career coaching, and consultation for both individuals and businesses.
(610) 595-5762 View (610) 595-5762
Photo of Brenna Fehr, LPC, CCTPII, CGP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brenna Fehr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTPII, CGP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Fleetwood, PA 19522
I have been trained in trauma therapies including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Healing does not always look pretty, well put-together and wrapped in a bow. Often, true healing can be messy, hard, tearful and exhausting. If you have made your way here, I imagine you are currently in the process of healing and looking for some support. Whether you are on the journey of healing from any level of trauma, fertility issues, postpartum struggles or general curves that life has thrown you, I am happy to and capable of assisting you along the way. I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to help themselves, open to change and willing to have deep conversations about their troubles.
I have been trained in trauma therapies including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
Healing does not always look pretty, well put-together and wrapped in a bow. Often, true healing can be messy, hard, tearful and exhausting. If you have made your way here, I imagine you are currently in the process of healing and looking for some support. Whether you are on the journey of healing from any level of trauma, fertility issues, postpartum struggles or general curves that life has thrown you, I am happy to and capable of assisting you along the way. I enjoy working with individuals who are motivated to help themselves, open to change and willing to have deep conversations about their troubles.
(484) 214-2498 View (484) 214-2498
Photo of Arti Maharaj, LPC, Counselor
Arti Maharaj
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Allentown, PA 18106  (Online Only)
I employ evidence-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR, and other therapeutic modalities to ensure a comprehensive and tailored approach to your mental well-being.
Greetings! In this practice, I provide a warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space dedicated to offering support. I believe in a client-led approach, empowering you to find your voice. Progress is celebrated in the small steps that accumulate into significant strides throughout the treatment journey. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy to everyone, specializing in providing support to the minority population and thriving in working with intercultural couples and families.
I employ evidence-based treatments such as CBT, DBT, ACT, and EMDR, and other therapeutic modalities to ensure a comprehensive and tailored approach to your mental well-being.
Greetings! In this practice, I provide a warm, non-judgmental therapeutic space dedicated to offering support. I believe in a client-led approach, empowering you to find your voice. Progress is celebrated in the small steps that accumulate into significant strides throughout the treatment journey. I offer individual, couples, and family therapy to everyone, specializing in providing support to the minority population and thriving in working with intercultural couples and families.
(610) 233-1584 View (610) 233-1584
Photo of Richard Joseph Loeb, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Richard Joseph Loeb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Maxatawny, PA 19538
I provide a safe and ethical practice that embraces individuality. My capacities are teacher, mentor, guardian, cheer leader, back-board, and many others. I present in reality and genuinely so.. Change and grow are possible in most cases. Client / patent focus in a holistic, comprehensive manner.
I provide a safe and ethical practice that embraces individuality. My capacities are teacher, mentor, guardian, cheer leader, back-board, and many others. I present in reality and genuinely so.. Change and grow are possible in most cases. Client / patent focus in a holistic, comprehensive manner.
(610) 624-6627 View (610) 624-6627
Photo of Nanet Peterson - Nanet Peterson-American Online/Phone Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nanet Peterson-American Online/Phone Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Not Verified Not Verified
Allentown, PA 18106
I am a caring and compassionate person. I help clients by listening and guiding them through transitions that will bring more balance into their lives. I use my skills to get to the root of the problem. When we get to the root, clients begin to have more clarity and take steps forward toward a positive future. You will save time and money by making session appointments on your time-frame. Use your laptop, PC or Smartphone. Sessions are conducted over a HIPPA Compliant video conferencing platform. I will guide you through the process. I am here throughout your journey on you becoming your BEST!
I am a caring and compassionate person. I help clients by listening and guiding them through transitions that will bring more balance into their lives. I use my skills to get to the root of the problem. When we get to the root, clients begin to have more clarity and take steps forward toward a positive future. You will save time and money by making session appointments on your time-frame. Use your laptop, PC or Smartphone. Sessions are conducted over a HIPPA Compliant video conferencing platform. I will guide you through the process. I am here throughout your journey on you becoming your BEST!
(610) 624-8041 View (610) 624-8041

Online Therapists

Photo of Heather Venezia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Venezia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ephrata, PA 17522
Waitlist for new clients
I offer EMDR in 60 minute sessions or intensives format, as the primary or adjunct therapist.
Whether it’s depression, anxiety, trauma, sexuality, high achiever burnout, or relationships, I’d love to hear your story and help you write the next chapter. My job is to plant the seed of hope so you can envision a happier, more authentic, less stressful life for yourself. You are strong, resilient, and brave for choosing therapy.
I offer EMDR in 60 minute sessions or intensives format, as the primary or adjunct therapist.
Whether it’s depression, anxiety, trauma, sexuality, high achiever burnout, or relationships, I’d love to hear your story and help you write the next chapter. My job is to plant the seed of hope so you can envision a happier, more authentic, less stressful life for yourself. You are strong, resilient, and brave for choosing therapy.
(717) 922-5842 View (717) 922-5842
Photo of Amy Jones, MSW, MFT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MFT, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19104
I also use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) to help you heal from trauma, manage anxiety, and internalize more adaptive views.
My strengths as a clinician are working with young adults, young couples, and women who have survived traumatic events, including ongoing interpersonal trauma, and who want support to process these experiences in order to show up more fully for their lives in the present. I also really enjoy supporting individuals and couples as they are making transitions in their lives and in their relationships, growing their family, navigating pregnancy and postpartum stages, striving to better integrate their careers and family, and deepening intimacy and connection with each other.
I also use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) to help you heal from trauma, manage anxiety, and internalize more adaptive views.
My strengths as a clinician are working with young adults, young couples, and women who have survived traumatic events, including ongoing interpersonal trauma, and who want support to process these experiences in order to show up more fully for their lives in the present. I also really enjoy supporting individuals and couples as they are making transitions in their lives and in their relationships, growing their family, navigating pregnancy and postpartum stages, striving to better integrate their careers and family, and deepening intimacy and connection with each other.
(267) 459-4937 x4405 View (267) 459-4937 x4405
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Bensalem
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Bensalem, PA 19020
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(215) 608-1581 View (215) 608-1581
Photo of Ami Sharma-Desai, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ami Sharma-Desai
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19107  (Online Only)
I am also trained in mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization,Reprocessing (EMDR) which specifically targets decreasing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress.
As a therapist, I am deeply committed to understanding your needs, strengths, and life experiences which have shaped who you are today. I value fostering an environment in which trust can be founded upon creating a safe, warm, nonjudgmental and collaborative therapeutic relationship. Together, we will develop coping skills and strategies to help you feel empowered to effectively manage your life concerns. You can expect that I will regularly seek your feedback and input during our journey together as I strongly believe you are the expert in knowing yourself best.
I am also trained in mindfulness, cognitive behavioral therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization,Reprocessing (EMDR) which specifically targets decreasing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, and stress.
As a therapist, I am deeply committed to understanding your needs, strengths, and life experiences which have shaped who you are today. I value fostering an environment in which trust can be founded upon creating a safe, warm, nonjudgmental and collaborative therapeutic relationship. Together, we will develop coping skills and strategies to help you feel empowered to effectively manage your life concerns. You can expect that I will regularly seek your feedback and input during our journey together as I strongly believe you are the expert in knowing yourself best.
(201) 690-1195 View (201) 690-1195
Photo of Nicholas Harris, Pre-Licensed Professional
Nicholas Harris
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
Haverford, PA 19041
I have received training at The International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR Consulting.
Often, we lose sight of the unique strengths each one of us possesses. Losing touch with ourselves makes it difficult to navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, or the everyday pressures that lie outside of our control. I believe that we grow toward and heal within connection. I employ an attachment-based approach when exploring the difficulties we experience as humans, as attachment greatly influences how we connect, express our needs, and show up in the world. Whether you are an individual or couple/relationship seeking a new way of being, our time together will be centered around your goals, your needs and your values.
I have received training at The International Centre for Excellence in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR Consulting.
Often, we lose sight of the unique strengths each one of us possesses. Losing touch with ourselves makes it difficult to navigate depression, anxiety, trauma, or the everyday pressures that lie outside of our control. I believe that we grow toward and heal within connection. I employ an attachment-based approach when exploring the difficulties we experience as humans, as attachment greatly influences how we connect, express our needs, and show up in the world. Whether you are an individual or couple/relationship seeking a new way of being, our time together will be centered around your goals, your needs and your values.
(610) 726-0855 View (610) 726-0855
Photo of Cynthia Dempsey, MS, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cynthia Dempsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426  (Online Only)
I utilize my background and graduate education in cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR in order to help clients work through concerns such as trauma, anxiety, stress, panic, depression and navigating a medical diagnosis.
Hello! I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and can see clients anywhere in PA. I hold a BA in Psychology from the University of Delaware and an MS in Clinical Health and Counseling Psychology from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. I work with teens and adults dealing with stress, anxiety and trauma-related issues and I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist as well a CBT and DBT trained therapist. I use a mix of many different styles in order to customize therapy to the direct needs of each individual client. I would be happy to discuss more and answer any questions you might have!
I utilize my background and graduate education in cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR in order to help clients work through concerns such as trauma, anxiety, stress, panic, depression and navigating a medical diagnosis.
Hello! I am currently a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Pennsylvania and can see clients anywhere in PA. I hold a BA in Psychology from the University of Delaware and an MS in Clinical Health and Counseling Psychology from Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. I work with teens and adults dealing with stress, anxiety and trauma-related issues and I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist as well a CBT and DBT trained therapist. I use a mix of many different styles in order to customize therapy to the direct needs of each individual client. I would be happy to discuss more and answer any questions you might have!
(215) 770-1283 View (215) 770-1283
Photo of Thanh Nguyen, LCSW-PA, LCSW-NJ, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Thanh Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-PA, LCSW-NJ
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Swarthmore, PA 19081  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and love supporting my clients in healing from their trauma(s).
Hi, my name is Thanh Nguyen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Greater Philadelphia Area. I specialize in perinatal mental health and have a passion in supporting women through their journeys. I provide individual therapy for those struggling with trauma/PTSD, postpartum depression/anxiety, and general depression and anxiety due to life stressors and transitions.
I am trained in EMDR and love supporting my clients in healing from their trauma(s).
Hi, my name is Thanh Nguyen. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Greater Philadelphia Area. I specialize in perinatal mental health and have a passion in supporting women through their journeys. I provide individual therapy for those struggling with trauma/PTSD, postpartum depression/anxiety, and general depression and anxiety due to life stressors and transitions.
(610) 549-1076 View (610) 549-1076
Photo of Kathleen Leonard - Spirited Breeze Care Farm, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Spirited Breeze Care Farm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elverson, PA 19520
At SBCF we provide all therapeutic services on our farm, on a hike, or in the barn, not in an office! We work with all ages, families, and couples. Our team consists of a Certified Art Therapist, Play Therapist, Drug and Alcohol Therapist, Education Specialist as well as BPD Specialist. We also offer EMDR, ADHD coaching, as well as, medication management via a psychiatrist. We also work with school districts and offer a day program for students. If you’re looking for a different approach to office based therapy give us a call. We look forward to working with you!
At SBCF we provide all therapeutic services on our farm, on a hike, or in the barn, not in an office! We work with all ages, families, and couples. Our team consists of a Certified Art Therapist, Play Therapist, Drug and Alcohol Therapist, Education Specialist as well as BPD Specialist. We also offer EMDR, ADHD coaching, as well as, medication management via a psychiatrist. We also work with school districts and offer a day program for students. If you’re looking for a different approach to office based therapy give us a call. We look forward to working with you!
(484) 309-5615 View (484) 309-5615
Photo of Nadine Hollander Slavitt, JD, LCSW, PCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nadine Hollander Slavitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, JD, LCSW, PCC
Verified Verified
Bryn Mawr, PA 19010
I’m EMDR certified, Level 2 trained in IFS and I am compassionate and action oriented.
You’re working hard, wanting a good life, but you find yourself feeling anxious, dissatisfied and unfulfilled. Perhaps you’re unhappy at work - feeling overwhelmed and burned out, with no end in sight or path forward to greater satisfaction. Or perhaps you are struggling with strong emotions, feeling anxious and depressed, having conflict in your important relationships, or feeling lonely and disconnected. And so many of us are experiencing major life transition - getting divorced, having children, starting a new job, becoming an empty nester, or retiring from a career.
I’m EMDR certified, Level 2 trained in IFS and I am compassionate and action oriented.
You’re working hard, wanting a good life, but you find yourself feeling anxious, dissatisfied and unfulfilled. Perhaps you’re unhappy at work - feeling overwhelmed and burned out, with no end in sight or path forward to greater satisfaction. Or perhaps you are struggling with strong emotions, feeling anxious and depressed, having conflict in your important relationships, or feeling lonely and disconnected. And so many of us are experiencing major life transition - getting divorced, having children, starting a new job, becoming an empty nester, or retiring from a career.
(484) 999-3243 View (484) 999-3243

See more therapy options for Kutztown

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.