EMDR Therapists in Lafayette Hill, PA

Photo of Lauren Heffler, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Heffler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, IFS, EMDR, TF-CBT, Brainspotting, and Dr.
I work with clients who want to break negative cycles, set healthier boundaries, increase confidence in decision-making, and embrace their authentic selves. I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and emotional abuse/neglect. My clients oftentimes make the decision to come to therapy when existing coping skills fail, and they're left feeling "stuck", "trapped", and "alone" in their experiences and shame-spirals. That's where I come in! I support clients with processing past hurts, establishing realistic goals, recognizing barriers, and introducing helpful techniques to move forward in a way that feels safe and supportive.
I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), DBT, IFS, EMDR, TF-CBT, Brainspotting, and Dr.
I work with clients who want to break negative cycles, set healthier boundaries, increase confidence in decision-making, and embrace their authentic selves. I specialize in treating anxiety, trauma, and emotional abuse/neglect. My clients oftentimes make the decision to come to therapy when existing coping skills fail, and they're left feeling "stuck", "trapped", and "alone" in their experiences and shame-spirals. That's where I come in! I support clients with processing past hurts, establishing realistic goals, recognizing barriers, and introducing helpful techniques to move forward in a way that feels safe and supportive.
(610) 894-7637 View (610) 894-7637
Photo of Madeline Rice - Madeline Rice & Associates, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madeline Rice & Associates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
We also utilize a technique called EMDR, a highly effective tool used to assist you in letting go of long standing, self defeating behavior patterns.
ACCEPTING NEWS PATIENTS: We are an all Female group of seasoned and skilled therapist who are passionate about working with people. We know how to give you the tools to feel better and live the life you want. We specialize in a broad array of presenting issues that include eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, PTSD, Adolescent and Women's issues to name a few. We bring a warm, compassionate approach to partner with you in the process of seeing and understanding long standing ineffective behavior patterns and, through our experience and training, will help you to reach your goals.
We also utilize a technique called EMDR, a highly effective tool used to assist you in letting go of long standing, self defeating behavior patterns.
ACCEPTING NEWS PATIENTS: We are an all Female group of seasoned and skilled therapist who are passionate about working with people. We know how to give you the tools to feel better and live the life you want. We specialize in a broad array of presenting issues that include eating disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, PTSD, Adolescent and Women's issues to name a few. We bring a warm, compassionate approach to partner with you in the process of seeing and understanding long standing ineffective behavior patterns and, through our experience and training, will help you to reach your goals.
(215) 392-2344 View (215) 392-2344
Photo of Robert J Moore, MDiv, PsyD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robert J Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
My specialties include marital and pre-marital therapy, parenting, trauma therapies, (EMDR and Brain-Spotting), DBT, enneagram type, and a fusion of spiritual/Christian/Biblical perspectives and traditional therapy that is available to the patient as appropriate.
Having extensive experience, I use empirically supported therapies, and have treated a wide range of ages as well as the most serious disorders. It is my belief that salient therapy treats a client in 3 different directions: top-down (spiritual dimension), inside out (healing of memories), and outside-in (Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). After a thorough assessment, I would identify with my client, determine problems on which to work, set appropriate goals, and determine the correct therapeutic intervention(s) to be used. Meeting those goals would be a therapeutic benchmark throughout the therapy.
My specialties include marital and pre-marital therapy, parenting, trauma therapies, (EMDR and Brain-Spotting), DBT, enneagram type, and a fusion of spiritual/Christian/Biblical perspectives and traditional therapy that is available to the patient as appropriate.
Having extensive experience, I use empirically supported therapies, and have treated a wide range of ages as well as the most serious disorders. It is my belief that salient therapy treats a client in 3 different directions: top-down (spiritual dimension), inside out (healing of memories), and outside-in (Cognitive-Behavioral and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy). After a thorough assessment, I would identify with my client, determine problems on which to work, set appropriate goals, and determine the correct therapeutic intervention(s) to be used. Meeting those goals would be a therapeutic benchmark throughout the therapy.
(215) 642-0949 View (215) 642-0949
Photo of Anita Devine, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anita Devine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
I have extensive training in EMDR Therapy and Parts Work ( IFS informed).
You are more than the painful experiences you have endured. You may feel triggered in everyday situations or feel alone and isolated. You may struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or guilt. However, you have a sense of your life purpose — and long to live your life more authentically. You are ready for relief. You're ready to love who you truly are and face your future with a sense of hope. In our work together, you will gain a deeper respect for what makes you unique. Through connecting with your core, authentic self, you can experience greater ease, freedom, and self-acceptance.
I have extensive training in EMDR Therapy and Parts Work ( IFS informed).
You are more than the painful experiences you have endured. You may feel triggered in everyday situations or feel alone and isolated. You may struggle with perfectionism, anxiety, or guilt. However, you have a sense of your life purpose — and long to live your life more authentically. You are ready for relief. You're ready to love who you truly are and face your future with a sense of hope. In our work together, you will gain a deeper respect for what makes you unique. Through connecting with your core, authentic self, you can experience greater ease, freedom, and self-acceptance.
(215) 461-3925 View (215) 461-3925
Photo of Anna Lipshutz - Main Line Therapy Solutions, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Main Line Therapy Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, PhD, LCSW, LPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
Main Line Therapy Solutions is a private group practice comprised of clinicians who are Psychologists, Social Workers, and Counselors. We are in-network with most local health insurance companies. Our clinicians have various backgrounds and areas of expertise and provide services in a warm and supportive private practice setting. When appropriate, we are also able to provide Telehealth Sessions for those interested in remaining in the comfort of their own home.
Main Line Therapy Solutions is a private group practice comprised of clinicians who are Psychologists, Social Workers, and Counselors. We are in-network with most local health insurance companies. Our clinicians have various backgrounds and areas of expertise and provide services in a warm and supportive private practice setting. When appropriate, we are also able to provide Telehealth Sessions for those interested in remaining in the comfort of their own home.
(484) 376-5519 View (484) 376-5519
Photo of Dan Livney, PsyD, Psychologist
Dan Livney
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
How does the "talking cure" help? It might have even been called the "listening cure." Having a helpful and supportive ear is something many people find they need at various transition points in their lives. Having a safe place to talk, in a warm and supportive environment, is crucial. The tool of our work is the relationship and, as research has shown, is the most important predictor of success in psychotherapy. I enjoy working with my patients as they seek to find their way to a richer and more fulfilling life.
How does the "talking cure" help? It might have even been called the "listening cure." Having a helpful and supportive ear is something many people find they need at various transition points in their lives. Having a safe place to talk, in a warm and supportive environment, is crucial. The tool of our work is the relationship and, as research has shown, is the most important predictor of success in psychotherapy. I enjoy working with my patients as they seek to find their way to a richer and more fulfilling life.
(484) 577-2944 View (484) 577-2944
Photo of Ray J Salas, MHSCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ray J Salas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
For me one thing is certain, people matter. Throughout my professional career I have had the opportunity to see people who've wanted to improve their life do so, with help. Change occurs through a relationship and I'd like to invite you into a relationship that will offer insight and an opportunity to regain a true sense of self. Are you tired of life not making sense? Do you wonder why you engage in certain behaviors that hurt you or your loved ones? Let's explore together and get you the help you deserve.
For me one thing is certain, people matter. Throughout my professional career I have had the opportunity to see people who've wanted to improve their life do so, with help. Change occurs through a relationship and I'd like to invite you into a relationship that will offer insight and an opportunity to regain a true sense of self. Are you tired of life not making sense? Do you wonder why you engage in certain behaviors that hurt you or your loved ones? Let's explore together and get you the help you deserve.
(484) 551-5168 View (484) 551-5168
Photo of Sally Cranney, MA, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sally Cranney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
As an experienced psychotherapist for over 20 years, I have helped people with a variety of problems, including relationship issues, work and school-related stress, adult-child and parent issues, eating disorders, post-adoption stress, and young adult life transitions. My style is warm and accepting, and my work addresses each individual's unique experiences as related to cultural background, environment, and family of origin history.
As an experienced psychotherapist for over 20 years, I have helped people with a variety of problems, including relationship issues, work and school-related stress, adult-child and parent issues, eating disorders, post-adoption stress, and young adult life transitions. My style is warm and accepting, and my work addresses each individual's unique experiences as related to cultural background, environment, and family of origin history.
(610) 756-2806 View (610) 756-2806
Photo of Judy Kaminsky, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Judy Kaminsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
Do you feel like you've tried everything and nothing's working? Maybe your relationship is suffering.... or your stress is so overwhelming that you can't cope...or perhaps your anxiety is paralyzing you. Maybe it's all of those things. All you know for sure is that you desperately want peace, less stress, a more satisfying relationship...but you keep spinning your wheels. Luckily, you don’t have to live like that forever. I can help you have the life you want and deserve.
Do you feel like you've tried everything and nothing's working? Maybe your relationship is suffering.... or your stress is so overwhelming that you can't cope...or perhaps your anxiety is paralyzing you. Maybe it's all of those things. All you know for sure is that you desperately want peace, less stress, a more satisfying relationship...but you keep spinning your wheels. Luckily, you don’t have to live like that forever. I can help you have the life you want and deserve.
(484) 779-8405 View (484) 779-8405
Photo of Lauren Bittner, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CCATP, SFW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Bittner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP, CCATP, SFW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Lafayette Hill, PA 19444
Are you seeking a safe space to navigate life's challenges, heal from past traumas, and cultivate resilience? I'm here to accompany you on your journey towards growth and empowerment. As a trauma expert, I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma. I offer a warm and nonjudgmental environment where you can explore your experiences and embark on the path to holistic healing. Together, we'll uncover the patterns that may be holding you back, cultivate new coping strategies, and foster a sense of empowerment and resilience that extends far beyond our sessions.
Are you seeking a safe space to navigate life's challenges, heal from past traumas, and cultivate resilience? I'm here to accompany you on your journey towards growth and empowerment. As a trauma expert, I specialize in providing compassionate support to individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma. I offer a warm and nonjudgmental environment where you can explore your experiences and embark on the path to holistic healing. Together, we'll uncover the patterns that may be holding you back, cultivate new coping strategies, and foster a sense of empowerment and resilience that extends far beyond our sessions.
(267) 890-7019 View (267) 890-7019

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lauren Bittner - Nourish Center for Therapy & Wellness, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nourish Center for Therapy & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
Are you in need of change and encouragement? A supportive, accepting and accountable relationship with your therapist is key to see positive change. It is time for you to be free of what has kept you stuck and hurting. Our team are down to earth, relatable therapists ready to help you heal. Our practice offers a wide range of services for children, adolescents and adults such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, somatic body work & dance movement therapy. Nourish also offers EMDR intensives. Reach out today to connect!
Are you in need of change and encouragement? A supportive, accepting and accountable relationship with your therapist is key to see positive change. It is time for you to be free of what has kept you stuck and hurting. Our team are down to earth, relatable therapists ready to help you heal. Our practice offers a wide range of services for children, adolescents and adults such as traditional talk therapy, EMDR, somatic body work & dance movement therapy. Nourish also offers EMDR intensives. Reach out today to connect!
(215) 709-2160 View (215) 709-2160
Photo of Dale S Garson, MEd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dale S Garson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
Techniques (EMDR) help to relieve discomfort from anxiety and trauma.
We are all working to do the best we can and sometimes we just need another perspective and the resources for trying new tools or strategies. I believe that counseling must be more than "feelings talk". Working together, I help you appreciate your own strengths and expand your confidence in experimenting with different possibilities in all of your relationships both personal and work related. Experiences of parenting three children, grandchildren and a 30 year marriage give me a deep respect for the challenges and the effort we all bring to our lives.
Techniques (EMDR) help to relieve discomfort from anxiety and trauma.
We are all working to do the best we can and sometimes we just need another perspective and the resources for trying new tools or strategies. I believe that counseling must be more than "feelings talk". Working together, I help you appreciate your own strengths and expand your confidence in experimenting with different possibilities in all of your relationships both personal and work related. Experiences of parenting three children, grandchildren and a 30 year marriage give me a deep respect for the challenges and the effort we all bring to our lives.
(610) 329-9897 View (610) 329-9897
Photo of Meredith R. Munro, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meredith R. Munro
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Flourtown, PA 19031  (Online Only)
In addition, I utilize and draw from other therapeutic modalities in my work including: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, & Narrative Techniques.
Seeking help is a sign of strength and health, not weakness or shame. You have a story and it matters. As an experienced mental health therapist, I feel honored to listen to your story and work together toward change and healing. My style is very warm, supportive, emotions-focused and collaborative. I place the utmost importance on developing a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. Most often I work with individuals affected by issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, identity/self-esteem, attachment and relationship issues. I also help clients with other challenges including grief, self-harm, and chronic health issues.
In addition, I utilize and draw from other therapeutic modalities in my work including: Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, & Narrative Techniques.
Seeking help is a sign of strength and health, not weakness or shame. You have a story and it matters. As an experienced mental health therapist, I feel honored to listen to your story and work together toward change and healing. My style is very warm, supportive, emotions-focused and collaborative. I place the utmost importance on developing a strong, trusting therapeutic relationship. Most often I work with individuals affected by issues of depression, anxiety, trauma, identity/self-esteem, attachment and relationship issues. I also help clients with other challenges including grief, self-harm, and chronic health issues.
(267) 388-4742 View (267) 388-4742
Photo of Carly Rizzo, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Carly Rizzo
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Gladwyne, PA 19035
I am trauma-informed, utilize evidence-based interventions, and I am currently being trained in EMDR.
Whether you're exploring therapy for the first time, seeking a new therapist, or returning to therapy, I'm here to support you. My approach is centered on building a trusting relationship where you feel heard, understood, and validated. I strive to be authentic and empathetic, recognizing that therapy can be a vulnerable experience. My style is relational, collaborative, and inquisitive, providing you with a safe space to express yourself and feel seen. I respect your autonomy and aim to move at a pace that is comfortable for you, while also encouraging you to confront challenging emotions.
I am trauma-informed, utilize evidence-based interventions, and I am currently being trained in EMDR.
Whether you're exploring therapy for the first time, seeking a new therapist, or returning to therapy, I'm here to support you. My approach is centered on building a trusting relationship where you feel heard, understood, and validated. I strive to be authentic and empathetic, recognizing that therapy can be a vulnerable experience. My style is relational, collaborative, and inquisitive, providing you with a safe space to express yourself and feel seen. I respect your autonomy and aim to move at a pace that is comfortable for you, while also encouraging you to confront challenging emotions.
(267) 641-5795 View (267) 641-5795
Photo of Lauren Massi, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Massi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Erdenheim, PA 19038
I am specifically trained in IFS, EMDR, Trauma Art Narrative Therapy, and the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics, which can be used to support with healing trauma in a safe and structured way.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here! Whatever your reason for seeking therapy for yourself or your teen, I am so happy to help you along your path. Maybe you've been facing anxiety that interrupts your life with worry, intrusive thoughts, and panic attacks; or depression that keeps you stuck within sadness, hopelessness, or feeling numb and disconnected. Challenges within your relationships - romantic, family, friends - make it feel scary to connect with people and trust others. Perhaps you've suffered traumatic experiences and relationships that have left you feeling lost, hoping to feel like yourself again.
I am specifically trained in IFS, EMDR, Trauma Art Narrative Therapy, and the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics, which can be used to support with healing trauma in a safe and structured way.
Welcome, I'm glad you're here! Whatever your reason for seeking therapy for yourself or your teen, I am so happy to help you along your path. Maybe you've been facing anxiety that interrupts your life with worry, intrusive thoughts, and panic attacks; or depression that keeps you stuck within sadness, hopelessness, or feeling numb and disconnected. Challenges within your relationships - romantic, family, friends - make it feel scary to connect with people and trust others. Perhaps you've suffered traumatic experiences and relationships that have left you feeling lost, hoping to feel like yourself again.
(215) 366-0073 View (215) 366-0073
Photo of Tracy DiFonzo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracy DiFonzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Flourtown, PA 19031  (Online Only)
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, all are trauma informed including EMDR , Somatic therapy, and Self-compassion practices.
My clients describe my style as warm and supportive. I am able to connect quickly with clients, helping people move forward to their desired path. Therapy is a partnership built on trust and safety to explore various aspects of life such as acute and complex trauma, anxiety, PTSD, life transitions and relationships. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island and Pennsylvania practicing in the field for over fifteen years. I provide services to individuals who have experienced trauma, anxiety, panic, relationship/peer issues, self-esteem/self-confidence, life transitions, and everyday issues that arise as part of life.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches, all are trauma informed including EMDR , Somatic therapy, and Self-compassion practices.
My clients describe my style as warm and supportive. I am able to connect quickly with clients, helping people move forward to their desired path. Therapy is a partnership built on trust and safety to explore various aspects of life such as acute and complex trauma, anxiety, PTSD, life transitions and relationships. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island and Pennsylvania practicing in the field for over fifteen years. I provide services to individuals who have experienced trauma, anxiety, panic, relationship/peer issues, self-esteem/self-confidence, life transitions, and everyday issues that arise as part of life.
(401) 343-7584 View (401) 343-7584
Photo of Michele S Jaffe, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele S Jaffe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I have expertise in trauma work, certified in EMDR (Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing).
There are those times in our lives when our discomfort with ourselves or others, just becomes too uncomfortable and you need to take an action that would solve the problem once and for all. Psychotherapy is that action. Confiding in someone who is respectful and competent, in that they can clarify your issues, right from the first session, can make your stress, no matter how high the stress, seem solvable. I am that therapist. Once clarity is reached, understanding and solving problems follow. Individual, couple or full family issues are addressed.
I have expertise in trauma work, certified in EMDR (Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing).
There are those times in our lives when our discomfort with ourselves or others, just becomes too uncomfortable and you need to take an action that would solve the problem once and for all. Psychotherapy is that action. Confiding in someone who is respectful and competent, in that they can clarify your issues, right from the first session, can make your stress, no matter how high the stress, seem solvable. I am that therapist. Once clarity is reached, understanding and solving problems follow. Individual, couple or full family issues are addressed.
(267) 481-2823 View (267) 481-2823
Photo of Gabrielle Woodward, MA, LPC, BSL, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabrielle Woodward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, BSL
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Gladwyne, PA 19035  (Online Only)
Anxious? Depressed? Autism? EMDR? "I am not even sure what is happening or where to start!" If this is you or your loved one, I can help! If you're looking for a down-to-earth therapist who knows how to bring a touch of humor, extensive expertise and a lot of understanding to the table, I am here for you! With compassionate listening and evidence-based practices, we'll create a unique therapeutic experience. You're not just a client – you're an individual with boundless potential. I am excited to work along side you in working towards understanding, acceptance, and positive change. Let's begin this transformative journey together!
Anxious? Depressed? Autism? EMDR? "I am not even sure what is happening or where to start!" If this is you or your loved one, I can help! If you're looking for a down-to-earth therapist who knows how to bring a touch of humor, extensive expertise and a lot of understanding to the table, I am here for you! With compassionate listening and evidence-based practices, we'll create a unique therapeutic experience. You're not just a client – you're an individual with boundless potential. I am excited to work along side you in working towards understanding, acceptance, and positive change. Let's begin this transformative journey together!
(610) 510-7445 View (610) 510-7445
Photo of Kristine M. Dolce, MS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kristine M. Dolce
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19118
I utilize an integrative approach including EMDR aimed at working collaboratively with my clients.
Life can be difficult. Are you feeling anxious, emotional or angry and don't know why? Feeling overwhelmed but don't know what to do? Perhaps there is a specific issue weighing you down. I offer a safe space to explore whatever might be troubling you.
I utilize an integrative approach including EMDR aimed at working collaboratively with my clients.
Life can be difficult. Are you feeling anxious, emotional or angry and don't know why? Feeling overwhelmed but don't know what to do? Perhaps there is a specific issue weighing you down. I offer a safe space to explore whatever might be troubling you.
(215) 509-5167 View (215) 509-5167
Photo of Courtney Ogbeche, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Ogbeche
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
Waitlist for new clients
Are you looking for ways to cope with today’s anxieties? At Vinson Therapeutic Collective, I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults. I am a champion for meeting people where they are with their issues and working from there. Using an eclectic approach by way of CBT, Person-Centered, Mindfulness and EMDR. I will work with you to find your authentic self, your strengths. We will work as a team to develop healthy coping skills to manage your concerns. I also incorporate spirituality for those who are seeking a holistic approach.
Are you looking for ways to cope with today’s anxieties? At Vinson Therapeutic Collective, I specialize in treating children, adolescents and adults. I am a champion for meeting people where they are with their issues and working from there. Using an eclectic approach by way of CBT, Person-Centered, Mindfulness and EMDR. I will work with you to find your authentic self, your strengths. We will work as a team to develop healthy coping skills to manage your concerns. I also incorporate spirituality for those who are seeking a holistic approach.
(267) 310-3414 View (267) 310-3414

See more therapy options for Lafayette Hill

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.