EMDR Therapists in Mount Joy, PA

Photo of Tracie R Hassell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracie R Hassell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mount Joy, PA 17552
I am EMDR trained and use EMDR to help clients process childhood trauma, recent trauma and other traumatic events.
In today’s society it is sometimes difficult to manage our mental health. We become anxious, depressed and sometimes our relationships suffer. Many of us suffer from traumatic experiences that we have not properly processed. It is important to find ways to cope with our anxiety, overcome our depression, process our trauma and learn to communicate in a positive manner in order to build healthy relationships with others as well as with ourselves.
I am EMDR trained and use EMDR to help clients process childhood trauma, recent trauma and other traumatic events.
In today’s society it is sometimes difficult to manage our mental health. We become anxious, depressed and sometimes our relationships suffer. Many of us suffer from traumatic experiences that we have not properly processed. It is important to find ways to cope with our anxiety, overcome our depression, process our trauma and learn to communicate in a positive manner in order to build healthy relationships with others as well as with ourselves.
(717) 820-9129 View (717) 820-9129
Photo of Becca King, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becca King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mount Joy, PA 17552
With a focus on mind-body connection, I've practiced EMDR since 2015, using this in combination with Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal Theory, and Internal Family Systems.
Choosing to pursue therapy can be daunting. It takes effort and intention, things that don't come easily when experiencing stress or crisis. I understand this and want to support you in the step you're about to take. Perhaps you'd like to consider the "why's" behind certain decisions, or connect better with significant people in your life. Maybe you're struggling to keep the lid on hurtful or damaging experiences.
With a focus on mind-body connection, I've practiced EMDR since 2015, using this in combination with Somatic Experiencing, Polyvagal Theory, and Internal Family Systems.
Choosing to pursue therapy can be daunting. It takes effort and intention, things that don't come easily when experiencing stress or crisis. I understand this and want to support you in the step you're about to take. Perhaps you'd like to consider the "why's" behind certain decisions, or connect better with significant people in your life. Maybe you're struggling to keep the lid on hurtful or damaging experiences.
(717) 696-0662 View (717) 696-0662
Photo of Macy Stanley, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Macy Stanley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mount Joy, PA 17552
Waitlist for new clients
These include: EMDR, CBT, IFS, Sand Tray Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Pursuing counseling takes strength. Life can be overwhelming, leading you to experience things like racing anxious thoughts, low motivation, life transitions, relationship tension, and/or trauma responses. You deserve a space to feel validated, seen, and safe as you process your personal experiences and pursue growth and healing. It would be my honor to support you through therapy. I provide a warm and welcoming environment for you to share your story and discover the tools that work best for you to meet your personal needs and find the relief you are looking for.
These include: EMDR, CBT, IFS, Sand Tray Therapy, and Play Therapy.
Pursuing counseling takes strength. Life can be overwhelming, leading you to experience things like racing anxious thoughts, low motivation, life transitions, relationship tension, and/or trauma responses. You deserve a space to feel validated, seen, and safe as you process your personal experiences and pursue growth and healing. It would be my honor to support you through therapy. I provide a warm and welcoming environment for you to share your story and discover the tools that work best for you to meet your personal needs and find the relief you are looking for.
(223) 217-3112 View (223) 217-3112
Photo of Yanina M. Marti-Ramirez, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yanina M. Marti-Ramirez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP-II, RPT
Verified Verified
Mount Joy, PA 17552
We found EMDR therapy extremely helpful to clients suffering from simple and complex trauma.
Have you been thinking lately about alternatives to deal with your past trauma? A current life situation left you feeling stuck? Do you need additional help to overcome anxiety, stress, or deep sadness? Then, there is a possibility that you are feeling ready to begin your healing journey. Because all life experiences are different, we offer a welcoming and non-judgmental environment that assists you in healing at your own pace. In addition, you, a family member, or a friend can benefit from our evidence-based therapies with a person-centered approach.
We found EMDR therapy extremely helpful to clients suffering from simple and complex trauma.
Have you been thinking lately about alternatives to deal with your past trauma? A current life situation left you feeling stuck? Do you need additional help to overcome anxiety, stress, or deep sadness? Then, there is a possibility that you are feeling ready to begin your healing journey. Because all life experiences are different, we offer a welcoming and non-judgmental environment that assists you in healing at your own pace. In addition, you, a family member, or a friend can benefit from our evidence-based therapies with a person-centered approach.
(717) 229-9324 View (717) 229-9324
Photo of Daena Longenecker, BSed, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daena Longenecker
Marriage & Family Therapist, BSed, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Joy, PA 17552
Facilitating healing in relationships and families drives my work as a marriage and family therapist. I love the powerful potentialities available for clients through our work together. Further, I am mindful to carefully listen to my clients and then collaborate with them to form goals for our work together in therapy. I understand that my clients need a safe place to experience the richness of life available when they feel heard and validated in relationship.
Facilitating healing in relationships and families drives my work as a marriage and family therapist. I love the powerful potentialities available for clients through our work together. Further, I am mindful to carefully listen to my clients and then collaborate with them to form goals for our work together in therapy. I understand that my clients need a safe place to experience the richness of life available when they feel heard and validated in relationship.
(717) 417-4884 View (717) 417-4884
Photo of Laurie Schein - New Journey Family Center, LCSW, MAMFT, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
New Journey Family Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MAMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mount Joy, PA 17552
Our passion for therapy is helping people of all ages discover their full potential in life and overcome obstacles. Our goal is to create a safe environment for you to turn and face the challenges you experience and identify new ways to create a meaningful life. For us, therapy is relationship and we would be honored to walk with you along your journey. We would like to offer our trainings and experiences, both professionally and personally to collaborate with you to help you reach your goals. We look forward to walking with you on this journey of healing and self-discovery!
Our passion for therapy is helping people of all ages discover their full potential in life and overcome obstacles. Our goal is to create a safe environment for you to turn and face the challenges you experience and identify new ways to create a meaningful life. For us, therapy is relationship and we would be honored to walk with you along your journey. We would like to offer our trainings and experiences, both professionally and personally to collaborate with you to help you reach your goals. We look forward to walking with you on this journey of healing and self-discovery!
(717) 850-9573 View (717) 850-9573
Photo of Hannah Mosser, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Mosser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mount Joy, PA 17552
I work with individuals that are experiencing difficulty in any aspect of their life and want to address it. Are you feeling anxious? Experiencing grief or loneliness? Conflict within your relationship? Difficulty managing trauma responses? Let's talk. Let's discover what is causing you distress and let's address it. My goal at BeSpoke is to help you identify what is off and customize your treatment to bring healing to what is causing pain in your life or circumstances.
I work with individuals that are experiencing difficulty in any aspect of their life and want to address it. Are you feeling anxious? Experiencing grief or loneliness? Conflict within your relationship? Difficulty managing trauma responses? Let's talk. Let's discover what is causing you distress and let's address it. My goal at BeSpoke is to help you identify what is off and customize your treatment to bring healing to what is causing pain in your life or circumstances.
(223) 223-9307 View (223) 223-9307

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Hillary Bossert-Davis, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hillary Bossert-Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Elizabethtown, PA 17022
I am EMDR trained and work with individuals who have experienced trauma, including childhood or developmental trauma and recent or specific incident trauma.
In my practice, I find meeting my clients where they are and working together from their goals to be most effective. I would work with my you from a strengths-based approach, helping you to focus your goals on improving your quality of life and working on the different areas of life which either prevent you from achieving your desires or may be a strength to work from! I am open to working with clients from all ages and backgrounds!
I am EMDR trained and work with individuals who have experienced trauma, including childhood or developmental trauma and recent or specific incident trauma.
In my practice, I find meeting my clients where they are and working together from their goals to be most effective. I would work with my you from a strengths-based approach, helping you to focus your goals on improving your quality of life and working on the different areas of life which either prevent you from achieving your desires or may be a strength to work from! I am open to working with clients from all ages and backgrounds!
(717) 276-4262 View (717) 276-4262
Photo of Dana Hampton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dana Hampton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
York, PA 17406
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling stuck in life? Hesitant about therapy? I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor that uses a resiliency approach to therapy. I believe we all have the ability to heal and have the strength to overcome anything that life throws at us. I use behavioral, mind-body, relational, and trauma informed approaches tailored to the specific person. In addition, I am EMDR Certified through EMDRIA and have extensive training in trauma and mindfulness. I also hold certificates in Embodied Social Justice and Maternal Mental Health.
Feeling stuck in life? Hesitant about therapy? I’m a Licensed Professional Counselor that uses a resiliency approach to therapy. I believe we all have the ability to heal and have the strength to overcome anything that life throws at us. I use behavioral, mind-body, relational, and trauma informed approaches tailored to the specific person. In addition, I am EMDR Certified through EMDRIA and have extensive training in trauma and mindfulness. I also hold certificates in Embodied Social Justice and Maternal Mental Health.
(223) 218-2462 View (223) 218-2462
Photo of Susannah Moore, LSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susannah Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Manheim, PA 17545
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy through EMDRIA.
If you are hoping to rediscover joy, overcome anxiety, or work through a relationship that feels really hard, I can help. My years of experience have shown me first hand that many of us are in desperate need of a safe space to feel seen, heard, and understood. I utilize a trauma informed approach, including EMDR and parts work. I do not believe that one therapy approach is the best for everyone. We will work together to navigate your unique therapy journey, identifying resources that you already have within you and learning new tools along the way.
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy through EMDRIA.
If you are hoping to rediscover joy, overcome anxiety, or work through a relationship that feels really hard, I can help. My years of experience have shown me first hand that many of us are in desperate need of a safe space to feel seen, heard, and understood. I utilize a trauma informed approach, including EMDR and parts work. I do not believe that one therapy approach is the best for everyone. We will work together to navigate your unique therapy journey, identifying resources that you already have within you and learning new tools along the way.
(717) 528-2803 View (717) 528-2803
Photo of Suzanne Rutkowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzanne Rutkowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17601  (Online Only)
Imagine being empowered with tools to manage distressing emotions. Anxiety and self doubt no longer weighing you down. Sleeping more instead of ruminating and worrying. I'd love to help you build this life one step at a time. As a licensed clinical social worker in Pennsylvania with EMDR certification, my focus is on teaching practical tools to balance your emotions, process the impact of what's happened in your life and creatively map a path forward based on what matters most to you. I have extensive experience working with people on medical trauma, health anxiety and grief and loss.
Imagine being empowered with tools to manage distressing emotions. Anxiety and self doubt no longer weighing you down. Sleeping more instead of ruminating and worrying. I'd love to help you build this life one step at a time. As a licensed clinical social worker in Pennsylvania with EMDR certification, my focus is on teaching practical tools to balance your emotions, process the impact of what's happened in your life and creatively map a path forward based on what matters most to you. I have extensive experience working with people on medical trauma, health anxiety and grief and loss.
(610) 890-9059 View (610) 890-9059
Photo of Mark L Lee, PhD, EMDR, CSAT, Psychologist
Mark L Lee
Psychologist, PhD, EMDR, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manheim, PA 17545  (Online Only)
As an EMDRIA-approved Certified EMDR Therapist, I have witnessed numerous times EMDR successfully resolving clients’ traumas and other disturbing experiences.
Are you dealing with depression and anxiety and feeling lonely due to past hurt and wounds? Are you struggling with porn addiction, infidelity, or other forms of sexual addiction that conflict with your faith and moral values, and are you keeping your suffering in secret? You don’t have to face these problems alone. I am here to support your healing journey to find freedom and to live a fulfilling life. I am a licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania. I offer online sessions. My specialties include trauma, sexual addiction, partner betrayal, phobia, anxiety, panic attacks, social phobia,depression, low self-esteem, and grief and loss.
As an EMDRIA-approved Certified EMDR Therapist, I have witnessed numerous times EMDR successfully resolving clients’ traumas and other disturbing experiences.
Are you dealing with depression and anxiety and feeling lonely due to past hurt and wounds? Are you struggling with porn addiction, infidelity, or other forms of sexual addiction that conflict with your faith and moral values, and are you keeping your suffering in secret? You don’t have to face these problems alone. I am here to support your healing journey to find freedom and to live a fulfilling life. I am a licensed Psychologist in Pennsylvania. I offer online sessions. My specialties include trauma, sexual addiction, partner betrayal, phobia, anxiety, panic attacks, social phobia,depression, low self-esteem, and grief and loss.
(717) 922-5131 View (717) 922-5131
Photo of Michelle Wegman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Wegman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
East Petersburg, PA 17520
In addition to meeting you where you are at, I have found great success in using EMDR therapy to address and process trauma with clients.
Life may not be turning out as you thought it would. Disappointments, failed expectations, trauma, tragedy or loss may make up part of your story that you have had a hard time accepting and moving on from. Or maybe you have dealt with a pervasive challenge like anxiety or depression that seems to be deeply rooted, and is disrupting your life. I believe that you can learn how to move through these challenges by processing the pain, gaining deeper insight about yourself and learning strategies along the way. This will improve how you view yourself, and others and help you to make the changes you want to keep moving forward.
In addition to meeting you where you are at, I have found great success in using EMDR therapy to address and process trauma with clients.
Life may not be turning out as you thought it would. Disappointments, failed expectations, trauma, tragedy or loss may make up part of your story that you have had a hard time accepting and moving on from. Or maybe you have dealt with a pervasive challenge like anxiety or depression that seems to be deeply rooted, and is disrupting your life. I believe that you can learn how to move through these challenges by processing the pain, gaining deeper insight about yourself and learning strategies along the way. This will improve how you view yourself, and others and help you to make the changes you want to keep moving forward.
(717) 912-8274 View (717) 912-8274
Photo of Lisa Fritz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Fritz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elizabethtown, PA 17022
I provide treatment from a variety of methods, including TFCBT, EMDR, CBT, and pyschotherapy.
I believe that every client is an individual with their own story, their own unique needs, and their own inherent strengths. When I meet with a client, I strive to know them as a person and to create a plan for their treatment that will grow their strengths as they heal and walk the next steps of their journey. Fritz Counseling Services is a an outgrowth of my commitment to reaching into my community to meet individuals who are seeking someone to provide guidance and support as they prepare to face the challenges and changes that will move them towards being their fullest selves.
I provide treatment from a variety of methods, including TFCBT, EMDR, CBT, and pyschotherapy.
I believe that every client is an individual with their own story, their own unique needs, and their own inherent strengths. When I meet with a client, I strive to know them as a person and to create a plan for their treatment that will grow their strengths as they heal and walk the next steps of their journey. Fritz Counseling Services is a an outgrowth of my commitment to reaching into my community to meet individuals who are seeking someone to provide guidance and support as they prepare to face the challenges and changes that will move them towards being their fullest selves.
(717) 990-7507 View (717) 990-7507
Photo of Elizabeth Polovina, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Polovina
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
I draw from various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, mindfulness, and humanistic approaches to tailor our sessions to your specific needs.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Polovina, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My approach to therapy is centered around creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I believe in the power of collaboration, and I aim to work together with you to identify your goals and challenges. My practice focuses on a holistic understanding of each individual, recognizing that everyone has unique experiences and perspectives.
I draw from various therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, IFS, EMDR, mindfulness, and humanistic approaches to tailor our sessions to your specific needs.
Hello! My name is Elizabeth Polovina, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My approach to therapy is centered around creating a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your thoughts and feelings at your own pace. I believe in the power of collaboration, and I aim to work together with you to identify your goals and challenges. My practice focuses on a holistic understanding of each individual, recognizing that everyone has unique experiences and perspectives.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Theresa Baker, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Baker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Mountville, PA 17554
I am a certified EMDR therapist and use EMDR in much of my practice as it is proven to be highly effective.
Hi! Whether you are someone with past experience in counseling, or just beginning this process, I honor this important step you are taking toward help and healing. For over 24 years I have been helping clients navigate issues of grief and loss, adjustment and transition challenges, anxiety, and depression. In the past 7 years, my focus has expanded to clients struggling with PTSD, complex trauma, and stressor-related disorders. The debilitating effects of traumatic experiences can include symptoms of high anxiety, fears and phobias, anger reactions, avoidance, depression, sleep problems, nightmares and flashbacks.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and use EMDR in much of my practice as it is proven to be highly effective.
Hi! Whether you are someone with past experience in counseling, or just beginning this process, I honor this important step you are taking toward help and healing. For over 24 years I have been helping clients navigate issues of grief and loss, adjustment and transition challenges, anxiety, and depression. In the past 7 years, my focus has expanded to clients struggling with PTSD, complex trauma, and stressor-related disorders. The debilitating effects of traumatic experiences can include symptoms of high anxiety, fears and phobias, anger reactions, avoidance, depression, sleep problems, nightmares and flashbacks.
(717) 952-9724 View (717) 952-9724
Photo of Starlene Delp, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Starlene Delp
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
My name is Starlene but I prefer Star and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults mostly within the focus areas of depression, anxiety, stage of life transitions, and stress management, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other coping skills gathered from DBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR to help my clients find what skills work best for their needs.
My name is Starlene but I prefer Star and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adults mostly within the focus areas of depression, anxiety, stage of life transitions, and stress management, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with other coping skills gathered from DBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR to help my clients find what skills work best for their needs.
(717) 402-8787 View (717) 402-8787
Photo of Nashonne Watson, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Nashonne Watson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm Nashonne Watson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Pennsylvania. In my work, I use an eclectic approach combining my 13 years of counseling experience and evidence-based practice to create a safe space for you to allow yourself to be vulnerable and grow. Over the years I have completed certifications in trauma counseling, spirituality-based counseling, and perinatal treatment. In addition, I am trained in DBT for adults and adolescents, CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and am presently training in Brainspotting.
Hello, I'm Nashonne Watson. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in the state of Pennsylvania. In my work, I use an eclectic approach combining my 13 years of counseling experience and evidence-based practice to create a safe space for you to allow yourself to be vulnerable and grow. Over the years I have completed certifications in trauma counseling, spirituality-based counseling, and perinatal treatment. In addition, I am trained in DBT for adults and adolescents, CBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and am presently training in Brainspotting.
(717) 408-6682 View (717) 408-6682
Photo of Rodney L Mulhollem - L.L. Mulhollem Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
L.L. Mulhollem Counseling and Psychotherapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Elizabethtown, PA 17022
We have 2 trained EMDR therapist who focus on trauma such as PTSD & Acute Stress Disorder.
We offer Teletherapy or in-person therapy. You can even use both. We are a team of clinicians offering person/individual therapy, marriage/relational therapy and neuropsychology/neuropsychological testing. Our focus is to offer the highest and best level of care in a professional environment from professionals. This is accomplished through offering compassion and caring, utilizing the best clinical research and approach to help you achieve a new level of success. We have locations in Elizabethtown, Mount Joy, & Lancaster.
We have 2 trained EMDR therapist who focus on trauma such as PTSD & Acute Stress Disorder.
We offer Teletherapy or in-person therapy. You can even use both. We are a team of clinicians offering person/individual therapy, marriage/relational therapy and neuropsychology/neuropsychological testing. Our focus is to offer the highest and best level of care in a professional environment from professionals. This is accomplished through offering compassion and caring, utilizing the best clinical research and approach to help you achieve a new level of success. We have locations in Elizabethtown, Mount Joy, & Lancaster.
(717) 210-5212 View (717) 210-5212
Photo of Kathyrn R Maz - Kathryn R, Maz, PsyD., PsyD, CSAT, Psychologist
Kathryn R, Maz, PsyD.
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
York, PA 17406
I am EMDR trained through the EMDRA approved EMDR Basic Training Program, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and have completed the beginner level training in Somatic Experiencing.
For over 35 years I have been honored with the experience of helping individuals being held back by addictions, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. I seek to provide a judgement free, in-depth understanding of my clients' journeys, provide tools for increasing self esteem, understanding and effectively experiencing emotions, and challenging difficult behavioral patterns. I assist couples in reconciling the hurts of the past and moving towards shared unity and deeper intimacy. Some of the areas I specifically specialize in include: substance abuse, sexual addictions, anger, trauma, self injury, and LGBTQIA issues.
I am EMDR trained through the EMDRA approved EMDR Basic Training Program, a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT) and have completed the beginner level training in Somatic Experiencing.
For over 35 years I have been honored with the experience of helping individuals being held back by addictions, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties. I seek to provide a judgement free, in-depth understanding of my clients' journeys, provide tools for increasing self esteem, understanding and effectively experiencing emotions, and challenging difficult behavioral patterns. I assist couples in reconciling the hurts of the past and moving towards shared unity and deeper intimacy. Some of the areas I specifically specialize in include: substance abuse, sexual addictions, anger, trauma, self injury, and LGBTQIA issues.
(717) 208-8197 View (717) 208-8197

See more therapy options for Mount Joy

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.