Photo of Sarah Jefferson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Jefferson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Petersburg, PA 16669
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in trauma treatment. I have ten years of experience working with adolescents and adults as they work to heal from emotional and sexual abuse, relationship violence, and family environments impacted by addiction and mental illness. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of traumatic memory. I use a blend of mindfulness and structural dissociation theory to heal aspects of the self that were impacted by trauma. This method supports you to deeply and fully heal painful life experiences.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, specializing in trauma treatment. I have ten years of experience working with adolescents and adults as they work to heal from emotional and sexual abuse, relationship violence, and family environments impacted by addiction and mental illness. I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of traumatic memory. I use a blend of mindfulness and structural dissociation theory to heal aspects of the self that were impacted by trauma. This method supports you to deeply and fully heal painful life experiences.
(814) 619-0627 View (814) 619-0627

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Eileen Woods, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eileen Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntingdon, PA 16652  (Online Only)
Other training I've had include family/marriage therapy training, EMDR and a host of other evidence based modalities.
I am dedicated to helping people overcome their struggles and become more connected with themselves and others. I've worked in Human Services since 1995 and have been a Mental Health Therapist since 2002. My training includes many modalities but what I find to be the most important is understanding where people are in their lives through actively listening to people's experience, being supportive and identifying what works best for each person. This creates a safe environment where people feel heard, accepted and validated..
Other training I've had include family/marriage therapy training, EMDR and a host of other evidence based modalities.
I am dedicated to helping people overcome their struggles and become more connected with themselves and others. I've worked in Human Services since 1995 and have been a Mental Health Therapist since 2002. My training includes many modalities but what I find to be the most important is understanding where people are in their lives through actively listening to people's experience, being supportive and identifying what works best for each person. This creates a safe environment where people feel heard, accepted and validated..
(814) 850-2180 View (814) 850-2180
Photo of Daryle Marie Gracey-Yohn, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daryle Marie Gracey-Yohn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntingdon, PA 16652
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR which I integrate with other empirically validated counseling approaches.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, stress, and depression resulting from experiencing trauma from personal or professional exposure. Trauma is complex and can negatively impact your quality of life and relationships. Some effects could include anxiety, inability to focus, shame and guilt, feeling disconnected and detached from loved ones, nightmares, painful memories of an experience that doesn’t fade away with time, numbness, or emptiness that lingers despite your best effort. I want to help you gain insight and learn necessary skills to reclaim control of your life and succeed in moving forward in your healing.
I am trained in EMDR which I integrate with other empirically validated counseling approaches.
I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, stress, and depression resulting from experiencing trauma from personal or professional exposure. Trauma is complex and can negatively impact your quality of life and relationships. Some effects could include anxiety, inability to focus, shame and guilt, feeling disconnected and detached from loved ones, nightmares, painful memories of an experience that doesn’t fade away with time, numbness, or emptiness that lingers despite your best effort. I want to help you gain insight and learn necessary skills to reclaim control of your life and succeed in moving forward in your healing.
(814) 546-5912 View (814) 546-5912
Photo of Lois Ann Pessolano Ehrmann, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lois Ann Pessolano Ehrmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pennsylvania Fur, PA 16865  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am certified in EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Focused Family Therapy, clinical supervision and telemental health.
I have spent a lifetime researching and training in the best sensitive ways to help people of all ages to heal from traumatic experiences. My own journey led me to the most responsive and humane strategies to help children learn to trust once again that adult caregivers could be safe and on their side. While I have recently retired from direct care I love helping other professionals learn how to use EMDR, IFS, Attachment Focused therapies as well as trauma treatment in general to be the most healing presence they can be for their clients.
I am certified in EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Attachment Focused Family Therapy, clinical supervision and telemental health.
I have spent a lifetime researching and training in the best sensitive ways to help people of all ages to heal from traumatic experiences. My own journey led me to the most responsive and humane strategies to help children learn to trust once again that adult caregivers could be safe and on their side. While I have recently retired from direct care I love helping other professionals learn how to use EMDR, IFS, Attachment Focused therapies as well as trauma treatment in general to be the most healing presence they can be for their clients.
(814) 601-0620 View (814) 601-0620

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Brian J. Schurr - Central Keystone Counseling, LLC, Psychologist
Central Keystone Counseling, LLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Williamsport, PA 17701
Depending upon the unique needs of each individual, Central Keystone Counseling offers modalities of therapy including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, interpersonal therapy, EMDR, and humanistic therapy.
Central Keystone Counseling is a therapy practice with easily accessible office space in downtown Williamsport, PA. We provide both in person and secure TeleHealth services. The practice is owned and operated by licensed psychologists, Dr. Brian Schurr and Dr. Kelly Kettlewell who have over 15 years of experience providing high quality and individualized outpatient services. We are proud to have a talented team of clinicians with varied clinical experiences/expertise making us uniquely equipped to address a variety of presenting concerns.
Depending upon the unique needs of each individual, Central Keystone Counseling offers modalities of therapy including, but not limited to, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), psychodynamic therapy, interpersonal therapy, EMDR, and humanistic therapy.
Central Keystone Counseling is a therapy practice with easily accessible office space in downtown Williamsport, PA. We provide both in person and secure TeleHealth services. The practice is owned and operated by licensed psychologists, Dr. Brian Schurr and Dr. Kelly Kettlewell who have over 15 years of experience providing high quality and individualized outpatient services. We are proud to have a talented team of clinicians with varied clinical experiences/expertise making us uniquely equipped to address a variety of presenting concerns.
(570) 601-4788 View (570) 601-4788
Photo of Jordan Bonner, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Bonner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
Utilizing my experience in the field and as a fellow human, I'll feel privileged to walk with you in your healing journey utilizing a variety of trauma informed techniques, EMDR/body regulation, and attachment-based therapy.
Awareness in itself is healing. -Fritz Perls. Imagine having the world's most incredible tool for healing, acceptance, and fulfilling experiences at your disposal. Now, what if I told you that YOU are actually this tool. Our mind and body connect in incredible ways. Sometimes, we need help learning how to listen more closely to ourselves and get to know the person we know we can be; and maybe, always were. It’s my hope that you find wholeness and peace through this process.
Utilizing my experience in the field and as a fellow human, I'll feel privileged to walk with you in your healing journey utilizing a variety of trauma informed techniques, EMDR/body regulation, and attachment-based therapy.
Awareness in itself is healing. -Fritz Perls. Imagine having the world's most incredible tool for healing, acceptance, and fulfilling experiences at your disposal. Now, what if I told you that YOU are actually this tool. Our mind and body connect in incredible ways. Sometimes, we need help learning how to listen more closely to ourselves and get to know the person we know we can be; and maybe, always were. It’s my hope that you find wholeness and peace through this process.
(412) 385-6966 View (412) 385-6966
Photo of Catherine Fitzgibbons, LPC, NCC, EMDR, CCTP-II, Gottman, Licensed Professional Counselor
Catherine Fitzgibbons
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, EMDR, CCTP-II, Gottman
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hershey, PA 17033  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR Certified Therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2, and Certified Gottman Therapist.
Are you feeling alone or overwhelmed? Sometimes finding a neutral and healthy space to process things can make all the difference and help you find your emotional and mental balance. I am here to work with you as you reach for the life you want to live.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR Certified Therapist, Certified Clinical Trauma Professional Level 2, and Certified Gottman Therapist.
Are you feeling alone or overwhelmed? Sometimes finding a neutral and healthy space to process things can make all the difference and help you find your emotional and mental balance. I am here to work with you as you reach for the life you want to live.
(717) 229-0348 View (717) 229-0348
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 Laura Chandler, EdD, MA, LPCMH, LPC, Counselor
Laura Chandler
Counselor, EdD, MA, LPCMH, LPC
Verified Verified
Harrisburg, PA 17112  (Online Only)
Eagles Counseling also specializes in children, adults, EMDR, IFS, CBT, music therapy.
Are you struggling with anger, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or ADHD? Do you have a child with behavioral problems, anxiety, or depression? Is your marriage falling apart? Do you want a therapist that can help you to live a better life?
Eagles Counseling also specializes in children, adults, EMDR, IFS, CBT, music therapy.
Are you struggling with anger, trauma, depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, or ADHD? Do you have a child with behavioral problems, anxiety, or depression? Is your marriage falling apart? Do you want a therapist that can help you to live a better life?
(302) 488-5479 View (302) 488-5479
Photo of Tomilyn Ward, LPC, MPC, EMDR, PCIT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tomilyn Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MPC, EMDR, PCIT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Swissvale, PA 15218
I specialize in EMDR. therapy. I also work with clients who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. I have training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. I also have experience with working closely with clients who have experienced traumatic births as well as birth workers and medical providers who witness traumatic births. I have attended over 30 births as a birth doula and I understand the process of birth for parents and providers.
I specialize in EMDR. therapy. I also work with clients who suffer from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, mood disorders, personality disorders, and more. I have training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder. I also have experience with working closely with clients who have experienced traumatic births as well as birth workers and medical providers who witness traumatic births. I have attended over 30 births as a birth doula and I understand the process of birth for parents and providers.
(412) 837-8121 View (412) 837-8121
Photo of Dr. Debra Doubrava - Emdr Trauma And Play Focused, PhD, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Debra Doubrava - Emdr Trauma And Play Focused
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, PA 17403  (Online Only)
EMDR & tapping to clients without travel to an office & within your safe space.
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.- John Watson...I am humbled & honored to have over 30 years experience working with clients of all ages & stages to lead more authentic, joyful, & peace-filled lives. I am an integrative, attachment focused & trauma-informed play therapist - inspired by theories grounded in client-centered, family systems, humanistic, Imago, mindfulness, & parts work. I enjoy working with a wide range of issues & diverse backgrounds in the human experience including LGBTQIA2S+. We all need to be truly seen and heard AND it is courageous and wise to seek help as we journey through life & love!
EMDR & tapping to clients without travel to an office & within your safe space.
Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.- John Watson...I am humbled & honored to have over 30 years experience working with clients of all ages & stages to lead more authentic, joyful, & peace-filled lives. I am an integrative, attachment focused & trauma-informed play therapist - inspired by theories grounded in client-centered, family systems, humanistic, Imago, mindfulness, & parts work. I enjoy working with a wide range of issues & diverse backgrounds in the human experience including LGBTQIA2S+. We all need to be truly seen and heard AND it is courageous and wise to seek help as we journey through life & love!
(717) 301-4263 View (717) 301-4263
Photo of Sabrina Noll, MS, LCPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Noll
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chambersburg, PA 17201
I want you to know that you are not alone! I specialize primarily in trauma and anxiety disorders, but I also have experience in working with other mental health issues that affect your life. Many of my clients find relief in realizing that their struggle does not own them and that there are many options available to have hope again. Together we can find the root cause so we can create a more effective toolbox to manage your symptoms. People heal when they create trusting relationships with their therapist so they feel validated and understood. Some of the treatment modalities I utilize include CBT, EMDR, solution focused, etc.
I want you to know that you are not alone! I specialize primarily in trauma and anxiety disorders, but I also have experience in working with other mental health issues that affect your life. Many of my clients find relief in realizing that their struggle does not own them and that there are many options available to have hope again. Together we can find the root cause so we can create a more effective toolbox to manage your symptoms. People heal when they create trusting relationships with their therapist so they feel validated and understood. Some of the treatment modalities I utilize include CBT, EMDR, solution focused, etc.
(223) 204-9705 View (223) 204-9705
Photo of Yvonne L Littlejohn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yvonne L Littlejohn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15235  (Online Only)
As a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, I treat individuals living with PTSD/Trauma.
Sometimes life can be challenging, but it doesn't always have to be. You may just need someone to talk to, to help you work out your problems and to listen. You may also be experiencing recent or past trauma that you, "just can't get over", so you suffer in silence, being re-traumatized. Well, you don't have to work through these difficult times alone. Let's Talk.
As a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, I treat individuals living with PTSD/Trauma.
Sometimes life can be challenging, but it doesn't always have to be. You may just need someone to talk to, to help you work out your problems and to listen. You may also be experiencing recent or past trauma that you, "just can't get over", so you suffer in silence, being re-traumatized. Well, you don't have to work through these difficult times alone. Let's Talk.
(412) 534-5391 View (412) 534-5391
Photo of Shannon Berncic, MS, CRC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon Berncic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, CRC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15238
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and EMDR trained therapist.
Congratulations on taking the first step! It can be overwhelming to start something new, but remember that you have already made progress by acknowledging that you want to take action. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. As a therapist, it's essential to have a wide range of therapeutic tools and techniques to help clients navigate their challenges. Whether it's helping adolescents and teens manage stress and anxiety, assisting adults with depression or trauma, or supporting couples in strengthening their relationships, each client requires a customized approach.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) and EMDR trained therapist.
Congratulations on taking the first step! It can be overwhelming to start something new, but remember that you have already made progress by acknowledging that you want to take action. My focus is to help individuals heal, energize, and become aware of their inner strengths. As a therapist, it's essential to have a wide range of therapeutic tools and techniques to help clients navigate their challenges. Whether it's helping adolescents and teens manage stress and anxiety, assisting adults with depression or trauma, or supporting couples in strengthening their relationships, each client requires a customized approach.
(412) 775-2901 View (412) 775-2901
Photo of Macy Stanley, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Macy Stanley
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Elizabethtown, PA 17022
These include: EMDR, Sand-Tray, Play Therapy, IFS, and CBT.
Pursuing counseling takes strength. You deserve a space to feel validated, seen, safe, and valued as you process your experiences and pursue growth and healing. If you are experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, relationship tension, or overwhelming life transitions; it would be my honor to support you through therapy. I provide support using a variety of therapy techniques to help clients change unhealthy thought patterns, and build healthy coping skills.
These include: EMDR, Sand-Tray, Play Therapy, IFS, and CBT.
Pursuing counseling takes strength. You deserve a space to feel validated, seen, safe, and valued as you process your experiences and pursue growth and healing. If you are experiencing symptoms related to anxiety, depression, OCD, trauma, relationship tension, or overwhelming life transitions; it would be my honor to support you through therapy. I provide support using a variety of therapy techniques to help clients change unhealthy thought patterns, and build healthy coping skills.
(223) 217-3112 View (223) 217-3112
Photo of Kayla DiPaolo, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla DiPaolo
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greensburg, PA 15601
Specializing in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy(EMDR), I offer an effective method to addressing trauma.
Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, or the weight of past experiences? My ideal clients are individuals seeking solace and growth. They desire healing from emotional wounds, increased resilience, and a secure haven to unravel their thoughts and feelings to achieve grounding themselves in the present. Together, we'll work towards understanding your unique journey, unlocking the potential for healing, and fostering a path to emotional well-being.
Specializing in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy(EMDR), I offer an effective method to addressing trauma.
Are you struggling with trauma, anxiety, or the weight of past experiences? My ideal clients are individuals seeking solace and growth. They desire healing from emotional wounds, increased resilience, and a secure haven to unravel their thoughts and feelings to achieve grounding themselves in the present. Together, we'll work towards understanding your unique journey, unlocking the potential for healing, and fostering a path to emotional well-being.
(878) 203-9331 View (878) 203-9331
Photo of Mary Beth Berge - Dr Mary Berge & Associates, PhD, Psychologist
Dr Mary Berge & Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Johnstown, PA 15905  (Online Only)
We use a variety of therapeutic models, such as cognitive behavioral, family systems, and EMDR.
At Dr. Mary Berge and Associates, you will be provided with the best care in the region, in our serene, and confidential, private practice setting. Our highly trained mental health specialists are ready to help you & your family, so don't wait another day to start changing your life... call now for an appointment.
We use a variety of therapeutic models, such as cognitive behavioral, family systems, and EMDR.
At Dr. Mary Berge and Associates, you will be provided with the best care in the region, in our serene, and confidential, private practice setting. Our highly trained mental health specialists are ready to help you & your family, so don't wait another day to start changing your life... call now for an appointment.
(814) 247-0994 View (814) 247-0994
Photo of Christy Sherman, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christy Sherman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Greensburg, PA 15601
I am trained in EMDR and utilize this highly effective evidence based protocol for treating trauma based issues.
As a therapist I believe all people have the inherent strength to make positive life changes and often just need empowered through compassionate support. We all have times in our lives when we get stuck in our relationships and just need new effective ways of coping and communicating. I practice from a trauma focused and structural family perspective. I have been very successful in helping couples, families, individuals, and adolescents make positive changes that have lead to feelings of peace, healing, a sense of personal accomplishment, and problem resolution.
I am trained in EMDR and utilize this highly effective evidence based protocol for treating trauma based issues.
As a therapist I believe all people have the inherent strength to make positive life changes and often just need empowered through compassionate support. We all have times in our lives when we get stuck in our relationships and just need new effective ways of coping and communicating. I practice from a trauma focused and structural family perspective. I have been very successful in helping couples, families, individuals, and adolescents make positive changes that have lead to feelings of peace, healing, a sense of personal accomplishment, and problem resolution.
(724) 565-8584 View (724) 565-8584
Photo of Karen Ann Daigneault, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Ann Daigneault
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lancaster, PA 17603
I am trained in treating trauma and use EMDR and Parts work which has been very successful in my practice.
Hi, my name is Karen Daigneault, MA, LPC and I have been a therapist for 36 years. I am committed to helping you achieve your goals and focus on using EMDR and Parts work to help you meet your treatment goals. I look forward to meeting with you and getting started on your journey. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, and many disorders. I have worked with Autism and social issues. I work with children, teens, adults, families, and couples in resolving their issues.
I am trained in treating trauma and use EMDR and Parts work which has been very successful in my practice.
Hi, my name is Karen Daigneault, MA, LPC and I have been a therapist for 36 years. I am committed to helping you achieve your goals and focus on using EMDR and Parts work to help you meet your treatment goals. I look forward to meeting with you and getting started on your journey. I specialize in trauma, anxiety, depression, and many disorders. I have worked with Autism and social issues. I work with children, teens, adults, families, and couples in resolving their issues.
(717) 539-3698 View (717) 539-3698
Photo of Meagan Scott, MA, NCC, CAADC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meagan Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, CAADC, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Monroeville, PA 15146
I primarily use EMDR to treat adverse life events and trauma and The Gottman Method to treat discord within a relationship.
All of our life experiences shape us into the people we become, however, at one point or another in most of our lives, we question the direction that we are going and if our lives are as joyful and enriched as possible. Through self-exploration and addressing unresolved problems, individuals can take control of their futures. Let’s talk about that process!
I primarily use EMDR to treat adverse life events and trauma and The Gottman Method to treat discord within a relationship.
All of our life experiences shape us into the people we become, however, at one point or another in most of our lives, we question the direction that we are going and if our lives are as joyful and enriched as possible. Through self-exploration and addressing unresolved problems, individuals can take control of their futures. Let’s talk about that process!
(724) 338-2292 View (724) 338-2292
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.