EMDR Therapists in Palmyra, PA

Photo of Chelsea B Holbert, PsyD, HSP, Psychologist
Chelsea B Holbert
Psychologist, PsyD, HSP
Verified Verified
Palmyra, PA 17078  (Online Only)
I'm trained in a wide array of cognitive behavioral approaches and EMDR to treat trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression.
I specialize in treating co-occurring trauma reactions, stress management, care of first responders, co-occurring chronic health conditions such as PCOS, Type I/Type II Diabetes, obesity, chronic pain, and autoimmune diseases. I want clients my clients to feel like their voices are heard and respected in their treatment. I'm trained in a number of therapies that enhance the quality of life by teaching skills that help manage the stress of co-occurring mental and physical health conditions. I work with individuals who are facing high stress in their work life.
I'm trained in a wide array of cognitive behavioral approaches and EMDR to treat trauma, stress, anxiety, and depression.
I specialize in treating co-occurring trauma reactions, stress management, care of first responders, co-occurring chronic health conditions such as PCOS, Type I/Type II Diabetes, obesity, chronic pain, and autoimmune diseases. I want clients my clients to feel like their voices are heard and respected in their treatment. I'm trained in a number of therapies that enhance the quality of life by teaching skills that help manage the stress of co-occurring mental and physical health conditions. I work with individuals who are facing high stress in their work life.
(717) 420-9261 View (717) 420-9261
Photo of Michelle Batz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Batz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palmyra, PA 17078
Hello. I offer telehealth, in person and in home concierge sessions. Welcome to your journey towards healing. In my practice we look to understand. There is no judgment. You cannot get there before you get there or know something before you know it. We focus on releasing the dysregulation we carry so there is more room for joy. My process is to teach people about their nervous system, how and why we become dysregulated, for example anxious or depressed, and offer ways to self-regulate and release the dysregulation through EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and other supporting approaches.
Hello. I offer telehealth, in person and in home concierge sessions. Welcome to your journey towards healing. In my practice we look to understand. There is no judgment. You cannot get there before you get there or know something before you know it. We focus on releasing the dysregulation we carry so there is more room for joy. My process is to teach people about their nervous system, how and why we become dysregulated, for example anxious or depressed, and offer ways to self-regulate and release the dysregulation through EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and other supporting approaches.
(717) 949-7380 View (717) 949-7380
Photo of Mj Spahr, MSW, LCSW, CCH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mj Spahr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCH
Verified Verified
Palmyra, PA 17078
EMDR, is offered to clients suffering from major trauma including PTSD, combat experiences, accidents, and sudden death of a loved one.
Are you feeling stuck with any of the following: anxiety; depression; sadness; stress; grieving; anger; transitions;divorce and/or relationship struggles? Is anger management an issue you need help with? Are you doing something that is robbing you of experiencing true happiness in your life? Have you tried numerous times to lose weight or quit smoking. If any of these resonate with you, than it is time to reclaim your peace of mind and live your life the way you deserve it. The therapeutic relationship including EMDR, and medical hypnosis can help you explore your needs and achieve your goals.
EMDR, is offered to clients suffering from major trauma including PTSD, combat experiences, accidents, and sudden death of a loved one.
Are you feeling stuck with any of the following: anxiety; depression; sadness; stress; grieving; anger; transitions;divorce and/or relationship struggles? Is anger management an issue you need help with? Are you doing something that is robbing you of experiencing true happiness in your life? Have you tried numerous times to lose weight or quit smoking. If any of these resonate with you, than it is time to reclaim your peace of mind and live your life the way you deserve it. The therapeutic relationship including EMDR, and medical hypnosis can help you explore your needs and achieve your goals.
(717) 473-4517 View (717) 473-4517
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
Palmyra, PA 17078
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 Stephen Michael Schuch, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephen Michael Schuch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Palmyra, PA 17078
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 Dr. Kimberly Carlson, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Kimberly Carlson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Palmyra, PA 17078
"The wound is the place where the Light enters you." - Rumi - My goal is to provide individualized and compassionate services to empower others and guide them along the path of healing. I am integrative in my approach and tailor treatment to the specific and varied needs and preferences of my clients. I will work with you to improve your mood, solve problems, manage anxiety, and resolve negative experiences from your past so you can live a healthy and gratifying life!
"The wound is the place where the Light enters you." - Rumi - My goal is to provide individualized and compassionate services to empower others and guide them along the path of healing. I am integrative in my approach and tailor treatment to the specific and varied needs and preferences of my clients. I will work with you to improve your mood, solve problems, manage anxiety, and resolve negative experiences from your past so you can live a healthy and gratifying life!
(717) 606-2727 View (717) 606-2727
Photo of Kathryn Nevin - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palmyra, PA 17078
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
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
Palmyra, PA 17078
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

More Therapists Nearby

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 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 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.
View
Photo of Jodi Fox, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annville, PA 17003
Waitlist for new clients
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 Tanya Sensenig, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tanya Sensenig
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lebanon, PA 17042
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 View (717) 537-9307
Photo of Melinda Stupar Fedoris, MSEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melinda Stupar Fedoris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hershey, PA 17033  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence based practice that shows results such as EMDR, Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and Compassion Focused Therapy.
The scope of my practice encompasses treating those who experience Anxiety, Negative Beliefs about Self (worth, responsibility, power, choice, etc), Trauma, Body Image and Diet Culture, Life Stress, and Grief. Life can sometimes take hold of us and we feel like we have lost our grasp, I work to help those get a better hold on things again. My focus is on helping you find ways to heal and feel whole again. We often have a lot of unpacking we have to do to heal and feel lighter to move forward. I like to intertwine humor into the treatment experience.
I utilize evidence based practice that shows results such as EMDR, Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction and Compassion Focused Therapy.
The scope of my practice encompasses treating those who experience Anxiety, Negative Beliefs about Self (worth, responsibility, power, choice, etc), Trauma, Body Image and Diet Culture, Life Stress, and Grief. Life can sometimes take hold of us and we feel like we have lost our grasp, I work to help those get a better hold on things again. My focus is on helping you find ways to heal and feel whole again. We often have a lot of unpacking we have to do to heal and feel lighter to move forward. I like to intertwine humor into the treatment experience.
(412) 754-7758 View (412) 754-7758
Photo of Becca King, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Becca King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Elizabethtown, PA 17022
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 Josie Albrecht, LCP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josie Albrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCP
Verified Verified
Middletown, PA 17057
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I enjoy working with clients who want to get to the root of their struggles. These clients would like to gain insight into their symptoms, something difficult that has happened to them or to explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving them. The clients I see often have attended therapy in the past. The clients I see also often present with attachment-based traumas, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their personal and work relationships.
I am fully trained in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I enjoy working with clients who want to get to the root of their struggles. These clients would like to gain insight into their symptoms, something difficult that has happened to them or to explore cycles and patterns that aren’t serving them. The clients I see often have attended therapy in the past. The clients I see also often present with attachment-based traumas, symptoms of post-traumatic stress, and difficulties in their personal and work relationships.
(717) 423-3564 View (717) 423-3564
Photo of Move Forward Counseling - Move Forward Counseling, LLC, LPC, LCSW, LSW, PhD, PsyD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Move Forward Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW, LSW, PhD, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hershey, PA 17033
We are trained to use a variety of specialties and techniques, such as CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness techniques, CAADC & EMDR.
Our locations in Lancaster, Hershey, Lehigh Valley (Emmaus), Lancaster Downtown, Lebanon, York, and Pittsburgh, offer in-person mental health therapy to people aged six+. Online therapy is available across PA. Seek our care if you are struggling with relationship issues, feeling anxiety or depression, identity/culture, trauma, or are unsure how to navigate grief, maternal struggles, LGBT+, or life transitions. Our clients often state they "feel stuck" as the reason they are starting therapy. Participating in therapy can help identify solutions and a way to move forward.
We are trained to use a variety of specialties and techniques, such as CBT, DBT, ACT, Mindfulness techniques, CAADC & EMDR.
Our locations in Lancaster, Hershey, Lehigh Valley (Emmaus), Lancaster Downtown, Lebanon, York, and Pittsburgh, offer in-person mental health therapy to people aged six+. Online therapy is available across PA. Seek our care if you are struggling with relationship issues, feeling anxiety or depression, identity/culture, trauma, or are unsure how to navigate grief, maternal struggles, LGBT+, or life transitions. Our clients often state they "feel stuck" as the reason they are starting therapy. Participating in therapy can help identify solutions and a way to move forward.
(717) 696-0029 View (717) 696-0029
Photo of Lucy Eberly, LCSW, Counselor
Lucy Eberly
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hershey, PA 17033
I use different resources and integrate multiple modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused, EMDR, and play therapy.
My goal is to create a connection and an atmosphere where you can feel supported and comfortable to share openly your concerns. I see individuals of all ages and stages and incorporate a range of strategies to best promote growth and healing while creating a fun and engaging experience for those younger clients.
I use different resources and integrate multiple modalities such as cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, trauma-focused, EMDR, and play therapy.
My goal is to create a connection and an atmosphere where you can feel supported and comfortable to share openly your concerns. I see individuals of all ages and stages and incorporate a range of strategies to best promote growth and healing while creating a fun and engaging experience for those younger clients.
(223) 201-7628 View (223) 201-7628
Photo of Veronica Pilon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Pilon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hershey, PA 17033  (Online Only)
I completed the 40 hours of EMDR training to reach full certification and am accepting clients for EMDR therapy.
EMDR Certified Therapist: If you are struggling with the effects of depression, which also involves anxiety, low self-esteem, and feelings of isolation or inadequacy, I can help provide and teach you the skills necessary to be more successful, happy, and content in your life. We will work together to identify unhealthy thought patterns, unhealthy activities, negative choice cycles, and more so that you can live your best life.
I completed the 40 hours of EMDR training to reach full certification and am accepting clients for EMDR therapy.
EMDR Certified Therapist: If you are struggling with the effects of depression, which also involves anxiety, low self-esteem, and feelings of isolation or inadequacy, I can help provide and teach you the skills necessary to be more successful, happy, and content in your life. We will work together to identify unhealthy thought patterns, unhealthy activities, negative choice cycles, and more so that you can live your best life.
(717) 936-9094 View (717) 936-9094
Photo of Joseph Yaskin, MSS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Yaskin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hershey, PA 17033
I am trained in EMDR and other body-awareness approaches.
I enjoy working with people in challenging transitions, who struggle with loss or suffering, or who want to overcome a vulnerability. My style is warm and collaborative. Let's talk about how I can help you achieve growth, meaningful change, and relief from distress. Each of us has, inside, the ability to heal and transform. You can focus these inner resources to move your life forward. The good news is that it's all right there, inside you.
I am trained in EMDR and other body-awareness approaches.
I enjoy working with people in challenging transitions, who struggle with loss or suffering, or who want to overcome a vulnerability. My style is warm and collaborative. Let's talk about how I can help you achieve growth, meaningful change, and relief from distress. Each of us has, inside, the ability to heal and transform. You can focus these inner resources to move your life forward. The good news is that it's all right there, inside you.
(484) 429-9705 View (484) 429-9705
Photo of Betsy Hopkins - Betsy Earnest, LPC, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Betsy Earnest, LPC, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Hershey, PA 17033  (Online Only)
Since there is a limited amount of therapists who specialize in EMDR, I am specializing in this type of therapy to help you resolve your issues as quickly as possible.
With over 24 years of experience in trauma-based, cognitive/behavioral and mindfulness therapies, I offer you my best! I have been practicing EMDR since 2017 and really believe it is an amazing therapy for a client who is stuck and provides relief in less time than other treatments.
Since there is a limited amount of therapists who specialize in EMDR, I am specializing in this type of therapy to help you resolve your issues as quickly as possible.
With over 24 years of experience in trauma-based, cognitive/behavioral and mindfulness therapies, I offer you my best! I have been practicing EMDR since 2017 and really believe it is an amazing therapy for a client who is stuck and provides relief in less time than other treatments.
(717) 670-8828 View (717) 670-8828
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

See more therapy options for Palmyra

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.