EMDR Therapists in Myerstown, PA

Photo of Tanya Sensenig, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tanya Sensenig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Myerstown, PA 17067
Waitlist for new clients
I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University along with a Certificate of Graduate Studies in Trauma Counseling. I received my undergraduate degree from Kutztown University in Special Education and Elementary Education. I am licensed as a Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of trauma, stress, phobias, and other stuck points.
I received my Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Regent University along with a Certificate of Graduate Studies in Trauma Counseling. I received my undergraduate degree from Kutztown University in Special Education and Elementary Education. I am licensed as a Professional Counselor in Pennsylvania. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of trauma, stress, phobias, and other stuck points.
(717) 537-9307 x710 View (717) 537-9307 x710
Photo of Laura Kiefer - Whole Life Counseling & Consulting, PsyD, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Whole Life Counseling & Consulting
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Myerstown, PA 17067
Perhaps your relationships are breaking down due to barriers in communication or a lack of trust between your family or partner. You might have walked through the negative impact of substance abuse, mental illness, financial struggle, or sudden loss. You desire ultimate healing, effective communication, healthy boundaries, & genuine connections, but you're not sure how to start the journey towards wholeness.
Perhaps your relationships are breaking down due to barriers in communication or a lack of trust between your family or partner. You might have walked through the negative impact of substance abuse, mental illness, financial struggle, or sudden loss. You desire ultimate healing, effective communication, healthy boundaries, & genuine connections, but you're not sure how to start the journey towards wholeness.
(717) 995-8757 View (717) 995-8757
Photo of Sarah Falkson, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sarah Falkson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Myerstown, PA 17067  (Online Only)
Sarah Falkson, MA, LPC, NCC graduated from Immaculata University in 2013 with an MA in Counseling Psychology. Sarah has worked in a variety of settings over the past twenty years including inpatient/outpatient, community-based/wraparound, Forensic settings, and Crisis. Sarah has training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (Level II) and believes in helping clients to truly encompass AEDP’s mission of “becoming stronger in the broken places” (Fosha).
Sarah Falkson, MA, LPC, NCC graduated from Immaculata University in 2013 with an MA in Counseling Psychology. Sarah has worked in a variety of settings over the past twenty years including inpatient/outpatient, community-based/wraparound, Forensic settings, and Crisis. Sarah has training in Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (Level II) and believes in helping clients to truly encompass AEDP’s mission of “becoming stronger in the broken places” (Fosha).
(412) 785-3419 View (412) 785-3419
Photo of Kathryn Nevin - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Myerstown, PA 17067
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(223) 217-5355 View (223) 217-5355

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jodi Fox, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Annville, PA 17003
I use a combination of EMDR and IFS, among other modalities, in therapy.
Hello! My name is Jodi Fox. I am the owner and therapist at Kintsugi Counseling. Maybe you’re wondering - “What is Kintsugi?” Kintsugi (kint-sue-gee) is a Japanese art form used to repair broken pottery with gold or other precious metals. Restored pieces are viewed as beautiful and valuable in their own right, despite the imperfections caused by the break. I believe that going to therapy is a lot like the process of Kintsugi. No matter what has happened in the past or what you are experiencing now, change is possible and healing can lead to the discovery of unexpected strength and beauty.
I use a combination of EMDR and IFS, among other modalities, in therapy.
Hello! My name is Jodi Fox. I am the owner and therapist at Kintsugi Counseling. Maybe you’re wondering - “What is Kintsugi?” Kintsugi (kint-sue-gee) is a Japanese art form used to repair broken pottery with gold or other precious metals. Restored pieces are viewed as beautiful and valuable in their own right, despite the imperfections caused by the break. I believe that going to therapy is a lot like the process of Kintsugi. No matter what has happened in the past or what you are experiencing now, change is possible and healing can lead to the discovery of unexpected strength and beauty.
(717) 328-8231 View (717) 328-8231
Photo of Christy M. Yohn, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christy M. Yohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lebanon, PA 17042
I am excited to be able to offer EMDR to clients as of 2023-I am an Evergreen EMDR Certified Clinician.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I am committed to helping individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma, substance use disorders, and various other stresses that affect all of us at some time in our lives. I come from a Strength’s Perspective and believe that healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires honest caring without judgment.
I am excited to be able to offer EMDR to clients as of 2023-I am an Evergreen EMDR Certified Clinician.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. I am committed to helping individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, anger management, trauma, substance use disorders, and various other stresses that affect all of us at some time in our lives. I come from a Strength’s Perspective and believe that healing is a collaborative endeavor that requires honest caring without judgment.
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Photo of Theo Bucci, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theo Bucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lebanon, PA 17046  (Online Only)
I also use Eye Movement Desensitization and Processing (EMDR) and am a board certified EMDR therapist.
Hi - I am Taffie Bucci and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I am a person-centered therapist who completely accepts where you are without judgment and where you'd like to be. My role is to empower you as you move forward in life. My focus areas are mood disorders, trauma (all kinds of trauma) and LGBTQ. I primarily work with young adults and adults - anyone over 18! We can discover what you'd like to work on in a collaborative way. I am comfortable treating mood disorders, trauma, LGBTQ and substance use.
I also use Eye Movement Desensitization and Processing (EMDR) and am a board certified EMDR therapist.
Hi - I am Taffie Bucci and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. I am a person-centered therapist who completely accepts where you are without judgment and where you'd like to be. My role is to empower you as you move forward in life. My focus areas are mood disorders, trauma (all kinds of trauma) and LGBTQ. I primarily work with young adults and adults - anyone over 18! We can discover what you'd like to work on in a collaborative way. I am comfortable treating mood disorders, trauma, LGBTQ and substance use.
(717) 837-3228 View (717) 837-3228
Photo of Soledad Arroyo-Silva, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Soledad Arroyo-Silva
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lebanon, PA 17042  (Online Only)
I am driven by attachment and somatic experiences. I believe in creating strong relational connections with clients to facilitate a mind-body connection, allowing for transformation to take place. "The autonomic nervous system is at the heart of our lived experience" - Deb Dana.
I am driven by attachment and somatic experiences. I believe in creating strong relational connections with clients to facilitate a mind-body connection, allowing for transformation to take place. "The autonomic nervous system is at the heart of our lived experience" - Deb Dana.
(717) 864-5218 View (717) 864-5218
Photo of Stephen Michael Schuch, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephen Michael Schuch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Lebanon, PA 17042
With over 30 years of clinical practice, extensive continuing education, and an emphasis on what works rather than on what’s wrong, I tailor my approach to the specific needs of each individual, couple, family, and group for whom I provide service. Using proven methods, I am able to offer, among others, supportive, interactional, brief problem-solving, cognitive-behavioral, including trauma focused cognitive-behavioral, and relational psychotherapies. Common themes among my clients are concerns related to relationship difficulties, bereavement, mood disorders including depression, anxiety, childhood behavioral problems, eating disorders, compulsive and additive behaviors, and difficulties related to specific life circumstances.
With over 30 years of clinical practice, extensive continuing education, and an emphasis on what works rather than on what’s wrong, I tailor my approach to the specific needs of each individual, couple, family, and group for whom I provide service. Using proven methods, I am able to offer, among others, supportive, interactional, brief problem-solving, cognitive-behavioral, including trauma focused cognitive-behavioral, and relational psychotherapies. Common themes among my clients are concerns related to relationship difficulties, bereavement, mood disorders including depression, anxiety, childhood behavioral problems, eating disorders, compulsive and additive behaviors, and difficulties related to specific life circumstances.
(717) 229-7295 View (717) 229-7295
Photo of Jesse P. Martin - Jesse Martin - Your Story Counseling LLC, LPC, NCC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jesse Martin - Your Story Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CAADC
Verified Verified
Annville, PA 17003
Life is a gift, but sometimes we find ourselves feeling trapped in unhealthy behaviors, unexpected and difficult life circumstances, and seemingly impossible situations. These stressful life events make it hard to experience hope which is so important in life. Regret's from our past story can prevent us from living well in the present and lead to fears about the future. Unwanted patterns in negative thinking and behavior do not have to control your life. Difficulties can overshadow all the good in life and distort our ability to move towards growth.
Life is a gift, but sometimes we find ourselves feeling trapped in unhealthy behaviors, unexpected and difficult life circumstances, and seemingly impossible situations. These stressful life events make it hard to experience hope which is so important in life. Regret's from our past story can prevent us from living well in the present and lead to fears about the future. Unwanted patterns in negative thinking and behavior do not have to control your life. Difficulties can overshadow all the good in life and distort our ability to move towards growth.
(717) 229-0205 View (717) 229-0205
Photo of Yasmin E Brown, MBA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yasmin E Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lebanon, PA 17042
Waitlist for new clients
We all have times in our life when we face struggle, frustration, anguish, and tragedy. These times, while painful and seemingly bleak, can also offer opportunities for profound growth. These times can be used to look within, gain more self-understanding, nurture our resilience, strengthen our confidence, and make choices to better align ourselves with the life we seek to live. By engaging in therapy, you can process your thoughts and emotions; obtain insight and guidance; and define the life you choose to live. With time and effort, you can grow into your unique and beautiful self.
We all have times in our life when we face struggle, frustration, anguish, and tragedy. These times, while painful and seemingly bleak, can also offer opportunities for profound growth. These times can be used to look within, gain more self-understanding, nurture our resilience, strengthen our confidence, and make choices to better align ourselves with the life we seek to live. By engaging in therapy, you can process your thoughts and emotions; obtain insight and guidance; and define the life you choose to live. With time and effort, you can grow into your unique and beautiful self.
(717) 276-4247 View (717) 276-4247
Photo of Kristen M Kohr, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen M Kohr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lebanon, PA 17042
Not accepting new clients
I am also certified in EMDR and the Flash Technique.
I combine empathy, humor and creativity when working with clients. I have found that one of the most important parts of therapy is the relationship. I am person-centered, collaborative and focus on a healthy working relationship that builds on my client's strengths and experiences. I am trained in a variety of evidence based counseling theories and have over fifteen years of experience working in the mental health field. I enjoy working with teens and adults. An instillation of hope, collaborative relationship and readiness for change are all ingredients for healing and wellness.
I am also certified in EMDR and the Flash Technique.
I combine empathy, humor and creativity when working with clients. I have found that one of the most important parts of therapy is the relationship. I am person-centered, collaborative and focus on a healthy working relationship that builds on my client's strengths and experiences. I am trained in a variety of evidence based counseling theories and have over fifteen years of experience working in the mental health field. I enjoy working with teens and adults. An instillation of hope, collaborative relationship and readiness for change are all ingredients for healing and wellness.
(570) 213-9196 View (570) 213-9196

Online Therapists

Photo of Samantha Tavlin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Samantha Tavlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19102
I am a relational therapist with training in various modalities of trauma therapy including EMDR, CPT, and TF-CBT.
My favorite part about being a therapist is building therapeutic relationships collaboratively in a way that feels authentic and safe for each individual. My style has been described as warm, nurturing, active, and transparent, and I will always prioritize your autonomy. I often work with individuals who want to have more fulfilling relationships and feel more connected to themselves and others. I will always celebrate your joy, humor, creativity, and whichever parts of yourself that you want to share.
I am a relational therapist with training in various modalities of trauma therapy including EMDR, CPT, and TF-CBT.
My favorite part about being a therapist is building therapeutic relationships collaboratively in a way that feels authentic and safe for each individual. My style has been described as warm, nurturing, active, and transparent, and I will always prioritize your autonomy. I often work with individuals who want to have more fulfilling relationships and feel more connected to themselves and others. I will always celebrate your joy, humor, creativity, and whichever parts of yourself that you want to share.
(484) 989-9349 View (484) 989-9349
Photo of Teisha Brown, NCC, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Teisha Brown
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19113
As such, I use various approaches, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Humanistic Therapy, EMDR, Person-Centered, & Gottman Method for couples therapy.
Are you… feeling irritable, sad, and withdrawn; worried and stressed; having issues in your relationships or marriage; struggling with substances that may seem to have a hold on you and creating more life problems; feeling “stuck” and unable to let go of past experiences; dealing with the loss of a loved one; having difficulty adjusting to changes in life; feeling out of control; or here because you have a desire to gain greater self-awareness? If your answer is “yes” to any of the above, then you’re in the right place. Take a deep breath, know that you’re not alone and I am here to help!
As such, I use various approaches, including Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Humanistic Therapy, EMDR, Person-Centered, & Gottman Method for couples therapy.
Are you… feeling irritable, sad, and withdrawn; worried and stressed; having issues in your relationships or marriage; struggling with substances that may seem to have a hold on you and creating more life problems; feeling “stuck” and unable to let go of past experiences; dealing with the loss of a loved one; having difficulty adjusting to changes in life; feeling out of control; or here because you have a desire to gain greater self-awareness? If your answer is “yes” to any of the above, then you’re in the right place. Take a deep breath, know that you’re not alone and I am here to help!
(215) 650-8105 View (215) 650-8105
Photo of Dr. Marcelle Giovannetti, ACS, LPC, NCC, CADC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Marcelle Giovannetti
Licensed Professional Counselor, ACS, LPC, NCC, CADC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055
I am a certified Drug & Alcohol counselor (CADC), Approved Clinical Supervisor(ACS), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Professional Counselor(LPC) , certified EMDR therapist & Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
I am a full-time Assistant Professor in Messiah University’s Graduate Counseling Program. I also works part-time as a clinician and am the owner of Courageous Hope Counseling LLC. I identify as an immigrant woman of Indian decent and have lived in several countries. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Elizabethtown College, a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University, a doctoral degree from Shippensburg University in Counselor Education and Supervision. and a postgraduate certificate in Social Justice from Harvard University.
I am a certified Drug & Alcohol counselor (CADC), Approved Clinical Supervisor(ACS), Nationally Certified Counselor (NCC), Licensed Professional Counselor(LPC) , certified EMDR therapist & Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
I am a full-time Assistant Professor in Messiah University’s Graduate Counseling Program. I also works part-time as a clinician and am the owner of Courageous Hope Counseling LLC. I identify as an immigrant woman of Indian decent and have lived in several countries. I have a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Elizabethtown College, a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Shippensburg University, a doctoral degree from Shippensburg University in Counselor Education and Supervision. and a postgraduate certificate in Social Justice from Harvard University.
(717) 775-6704 View (717) 775-6704
Photo of Amee Mickhael, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amee Mickhael
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Philadelphia, PA 19127
I am trained in EMDR, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Child-Parent Psychotherapy.
I believe one of the bravest things we can do is to understand our story. Owning our story can bring us to self-acceptance and healing. I can help get you there. Do you feel like you’re hitting a wall? Feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns? Stuck in your past trauma? Bad relationships? You deserve more than the anger and hurt that you’re carrying with you each day. These walls you’re hitting can be broken down. We just need to take a few steps back, and face these walls together. Come in, and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea (on me) and let’s talk about it.
I am trained in EMDR, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Child-Parent Psychotherapy.
I believe one of the bravest things we can do is to understand our story. Owning our story can bring us to self-acceptance and healing. I can help get you there. Do you feel like you’re hitting a wall? Feeling stuck in unhealthy patterns? Stuck in your past trauma? Bad relationships? You deserve more than the anger and hurt that you’re carrying with you each day. These walls you’re hitting can be broken down. We just need to take a few steps back, and face these walls together. Come in, and enjoy a cup of coffee or tea (on me) and let’s talk about it.
(484) 207-5446 View (484) 207-5446
Photo of Kate Deatrich, PsyD, Psychologist
Kate Deatrich
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
For clients who have experienced trauma, I also employ EMDR.
I am an experienced psychologist who helps adolescents and adults overcome a variety of mental health and life challenges. I specialize in adolescent and adult survivors of abuse and trauma. This includes childhood abuse, sexual abuse/assault, complex PTSD, and medical trauma. Another specialty of mine is chronic pain and illness, including syndromes that are difficult to diagnose and treat. I also particularly enjoy working with folks in the LGBTQ+ community. Lastly, I provide psychological assessment for ADHD in adults, as well as IQ and personality/diagnostic testing.
For clients who have experienced trauma, I also employ EMDR.
I am an experienced psychologist who helps adolescents and adults overcome a variety of mental health and life challenges. I specialize in adolescent and adult survivors of abuse and trauma. This includes childhood abuse, sexual abuse/assault, complex PTSD, and medical trauma. Another specialty of mine is chronic pain and illness, including syndromes that are difficult to diagnose and treat. I also particularly enjoy working with folks in the LGBTQ+ community. Lastly, I provide psychological assessment for ADHD in adults, as well as IQ and personality/diagnostic testing.
(484) 572-4273 View (484) 572-4273
Photo of Josie Albrecht, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josie Albrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19103  (Online Only)
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Take your healing to new heights. Are you seeking a space to explore the “hard stuff”? Have you been struggling to get past survival-mode living? Do you long for a genuine, authentic connection to yourself and others? I work with clients who desire to get to the root of their struggles. Whether you want to overcome your symptoms, process something difficult that has happened to you, or explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving you, I am here to help.
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Take your healing to new heights. Are you seeking a space to explore the “hard stuff”? Have you been struggling to get past survival-mode living? Do you long for a genuine, authentic connection to yourself and others? I work with clients who desire to get to the root of their struggles. Whether you want to overcome your symptoms, process something difficult that has happened to you, or explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving you, I am here to help.
(412) 415-7328 View (412) 415-7328
Photo of Bernadette Cachara - Cachara and Associates LLC, PsyD, Psychologist
Cachara and Associates LLC
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carlisle, PA 17013
We specialize in trauma focused therapies including TF-CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy and Sand Tray.
We are a small, private psychological practice providing services in both the Carlisle and Chambersburg areas. We are passionate about our work. We view our therapeutic relationship as the medium in which change happens, allowing your time spent in therapy to be beneficial and worthwhile for you and/or your child. We work with a variety of presenting problems including anxiety, depression, situational stress, childhood trauma, grief/loss, behavioral disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders as well as perinatal health.
We specialize in trauma focused therapies including TF-CBT, EMDR, Play Therapy and Sand Tray.
We are a small, private psychological practice providing services in both the Carlisle and Chambersburg areas. We are passionate about our work. We view our therapeutic relationship as the medium in which change happens, allowing your time spent in therapy to be beneficial and worthwhile for you and/or your child. We work with a variety of presenting problems including anxiety, depression, situational stress, childhood trauma, grief/loss, behavioral disorders, ADHD, autism spectrum disorders as well as perinatal health.
(717) 978-0129 View (717) 978-0129
Photo of Kellyn Barton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kellyn Barton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mechanicsburg, PA 17055  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), psychodynamic, mindfulness, somatic, and attachment-based therapies, and other evidence-based techniques to help you gain greater awareness of yourself, your experiences, and growth opportunities.
Life is a unique experience for everyone. Seeking therapy is a brave step toward understanding yourself and what has shaped your experience. My therapeutic approach will be tailored to your needs because, like life, what is needed on this journey is unique for everyone. Whether you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, empty, fearful, disconnected, misunderstood, dealing with present symptoms of past traumatic experiences, or other challenges, I am here to join and support you on your journey.
I utilize EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), psychodynamic, mindfulness, somatic, and attachment-based therapies, and other evidence-based techniques to help you gain greater awareness of yourself, your experiences, and growth opportunities.
Life is a unique experience for everyone. Seeking therapy is a brave step toward understanding yourself and what has shaped your experience. My therapeutic approach will be tailored to your needs because, like life, what is needed on this journey is unique for everyone. Whether you are feeling stuck, overwhelmed, empty, fearful, disconnected, misunderstood, dealing with present symptoms of past traumatic experiences, or other challenges, I am here to join and support you on your journey.
(385) 993-4850 View (385) 993-4850

See more therapy options for Myerstown

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.