EMDR Therapists in Upper Darby, PA

Photo of Bill Martin - Psychotherapy for Sexually Abused Men, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Psychotherapy for Sexually Abused Men
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Upper Darby, PA 19082  (Online Only)
Currently, I'm only accepting male clients who have been sexually abused and/or assaulted. I work mainly with older men who have never talked about being sexually abused. While there are many female therapists who work well with male sexual abuse survivors, I believe being a straight male therapist with a wife and family helps. I am certified in Interactional Guided Imagery, a trained EMDR therapist, facilitated over 100 psychodramas, and am effective and successful in my work. I'm licensed in Illinois, Pennsylvania and Delaware.
Currently, I'm only accepting male clients who have been sexually abused and/or assaulted. I work mainly with older men who have never talked about being sexually abused. While there are many female therapists who work well with male sexual abuse survivors, I believe being a straight male therapist with a wife and family helps. I am certified in Interactional Guided Imagery, a trained EMDR therapist, facilitated over 100 psychodramas, and am effective and successful in my work. I'm licensed in Illinois, Pennsylvania and Delaware.
(215) 515-4654 View (215) 515-4654
Photo of Jannea Wolff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jannea Wolff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Upper Darby, PA 19082  (Online Only)
I am also trained in EMDR.
Do you ever feel like you have lost yourself in motherhood and wonder who you are outside of that title? Do you want to regain a zest for life and be able to manage anxiety/depression that seems to keep you in a cycle of unfulfillment? Or, has past trauma impacted your relationship with self and/or others? I too, have been in your shoes after experiencing a traumatic birth that changed my life, and now I am committed to helping other women reclaim their lives. I specialize in working with women who want to find the joy in their lives again and manage symptoms of depression or anxiety.
I am also trained in EMDR.
Do you ever feel like you have lost yourself in motherhood and wonder who you are outside of that title? Do you want to regain a zest for life and be able to manage anxiety/depression that seems to keep you in a cycle of unfulfillment? Or, has past trauma impacted your relationship with self and/or others? I too, have been in your shoes after experiencing a traumatic birth that changed my life, and now I am committed to helping other women reclaim their lives. I specialize in working with women who want to find the joy in their lives again and manage symptoms of depression or anxiety.
(484) 573-7719 View (484) 573-7719
Photo of Lewis Johnson, MS, NCC, CTP, CET II, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lewis Johnson
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC, CTP, CET II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upper Darby, PA 19082
At the Lotus Center for Wellness and Healing, the focus is on you… the human, the individual, the person sharing space with me. Historically, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and gender expansive (LGBTQIA+) folks have experienced oppression and marginalization that can make one feel isolated, misunderstood, and without choice. Racial and identity-based trauma can have lasting effects on a person without them knowing the significant impact.
At the Lotus Center for Wellness and Healing, the focus is on you… the human, the individual, the person sharing space with me. Historically, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and gender expansive (LGBTQIA+) folks have experienced oppression and marginalization that can make one feel isolated, misunderstood, and without choice. Racial and identity-based trauma can have lasting effects on a person without them knowing the significant impact.
(484) 265-9608 View (484) 265-9608
Photo of Michael M. Green, MDiv, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael M. Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Upper Darby, PA 19082
As a Licensed Professional Counselor I provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I have several years of experience working with a diverse array of people and have had the privilege to walk alongside people as they navigated a variety of life conditions and issues. I treat individuals that are dealing with such issues as anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, divorce recovery, grief and loss, ADHD, anger and conduct issues, trauma, substance use and abuse issues, gambling, sexual and process addictions, addict in the family issues, codependency, attachment issues, personality disorders, and spiritual conflicts.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor I provide therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I have several years of experience working with a diverse array of people and have had the privilege to walk alongside people as they navigated a variety of life conditions and issues. I treat individuals that are dealing with such issues as anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, divorce recovery, grief and loss, ADHD, anger and conduct issues, trauma, substance use and abuse issues, gambling, sexual and process addictions, addict in the family issues, codependency, attachment issues, personality disorders, and spiritual conflicts.
(484) 222-4971 View (484) 222-4971

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Beth Bickel, MS , LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beth Bickel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS , LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Wynnewood, PA 19096
When appropriate I suggest using EMDR to process unresolved trauma.
My main practice is focused on treating trauma and attachment. My trauma training and education is broad and ongoing. I provide treatment to clients age 12 and over and have worked with survivors of domestic violence, rape, sexual abuse, child abuse and neglect. I incorporate EMDR into my practice whenever applicable and use an integrative approach that includes attachment theory, IFS, mindfulness and trauma psychoeducation.
When appropriate I suggest using EMDR to process unresolved trauma.
My main practice is focused on treating trauma and attachment. My trauma training and education is broad and ongoing. I provide treatment to clients age 12 and over and have worked with survivors of domestic violence, rape, sexual abuse, child abuse and neglect. I incorporate EMDR into my practice whenever applicable and use an integrative approach that includes attachment theory, IFS, mindfulness and trauma psychoeducation.
(610) 638-7418 View (610) 638-7418
Photo of Emily Earley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Earley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Havertown, PA 19083
I am currently enrolled in an EMDR certification training program, and have a passion for working with individuals with a trauma background.
Thank you for taking the time to read this! My name is Emily, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Calm Mind Therapy. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, and have experience providing counseling services in the school environment. I am committed to providing a safe and affirming space for my clients to process, problem-solve, heal, and grow. My goal is to form a supportive and trusting relationship with each client, where they feel empowered to share their deepest struggles. I consider it an honor and privilege to walk alongside my clients during difficult seasons.
I am currently enrolled in an EMDR certification training program, and have a passion for working with individuals with a trauma background.
Thank you for taking the time to read this! My name is Emily, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Calm Mind Therapy. I specialize in working with children and adolescents, and have experience providing counseling services in the school environment. I am committed to providing a safe and affirming space for my clients to process, problem-solve, heal, and grow. My goal is to form a supportive and trusting relationship with each client, where they feel empowered to share their deepest struggles. I consider it an honor and privilege to walk alongside my clients during difficult seasons.
(484) 882-0705 View (484) 882-0705
Photo of Jane M Hart, EdD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jane M Hart
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wynnewood, PA 19096
Specialty areas include: ~ trauma desentization and recovery (as a certified EMDR therapist) ~ addictions and codependency recovery ~ mind/body issues ~ depression and anxiety ~ stress management ~ midlife transitions ~ intimacy issues.
You may be facing your first counseling experience or after years of working with other practitioners--willing to try again. When we first meet, I trust you will know you are safe and respected. I commit my full presence, deep interest, and willingness to be open to who you truly are. In other words, I am "teachable"--by you, for you and with you. And rather than fit you into a model, I will "learn and flex"--learn how you learn, change and grow and flex my skills, style and tools to find what works best for you.
Specialty areas include: ~ trauma desentization and recovery (as a certified EMDR therapist) ~ addictions and codependency recovery ~ mind/body issues ~ depression and anxiety ~ stress management ~ midlife transitions ~ intimacy issues.
You may be facing your first counseling experience or after years of working with other practitioners--willing to try again. When we first meet, I trust you will know you are safe and respected. I commit my full presence, deep interest, and willingness to be open to who you truly are. In other words, I am "teachable"--by you, for you and with you. And rather than fit you into a model, I will "learn and flex"--learn how you learn, change and grow and flex my skills, style and tools to find what works best for you.
(484) 668-1883 View (484) 668-1883
Photo of Megan Matusky, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Megan Matusky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083
I am an EMDR certified therapist, and trained in Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy, Attachment-Based Family Therapy, and Trauma Art Narrative Therapy.
Is your teen going through a hard time? They are not alone! More and more teens are struggling with depression, anxiety, and low-self esteem. The good news is that starting therapy can help! I specialize in working with tweens, teens, and college-age students to help them navigate some of the toughest years. My approach combines traditional talk therapy with skills building to help teens better identify, understand, and manage their emotions. Parents are also invited to join in the process.
I am an EMDR certified therapist, and trained in Ecosystemic Structural Family Therapy, Attachment-Based Family Therapy, and Trauma Art Narrative Therapy.
Is your teen going through a hard time? They are not alone! More and more teens are struggling with depression, anxiety, and low-self esteem. The good news is that starting therapy can help! I specialize in working with tweens, teens, and college-age students to help them navigate some of the toughest years. My approach combines traditional talk therapy with skills building to help teens better identify, understand, and manage their emotions. Parents are also invited to join in the process.
(484) 207-5628 View (484) 207-5628
Photo of Jieun Gu, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jieun Gu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19131  (Online Only)
EMDR, Somatic, IFS, Mindfulness, Gestalt Therapy, etc.
Have you found yourself not getting much better from Talk Therapy sessions? Despite all of your efforts and work in progress, are you still struggling with rumination, confusion, exhaustion, numbness, sleeping and eating issues, avoidance, addiction, body image issues, guilt, shame, anger, irritability, sadness, feeling empty or void, loss of interest, self-limiting beliefs (I’m not good enough), and so forth? In over 8 years of clinical experience, I have observed profound healing in my clients by addressing the underlying causes of their distress.
EMDR, Somatic, IFS, Mindfulness, Gestalt Therapy, etc.
Have you found yourself not getting much better from Talk Therapy sessions? Despite all of your efforts and work in progress, are you still struggling with rumination, confusion, exhaustion, numbness, sleeping and eating issues, avoidance, addiction, body image issues, guilt, shame, anger, irritability, sadness, feeling empty or void, loss of interest, self-limiting beliefs (I’m not good enough), and so forth? In over 8 years of clinical experience, I have observed profound healing in my clients by addressing the underlying causes of their distress.
(484) 729-7903 View (484) 729-7903
Photo of Jasmine Fluellen, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jasmine Fluellen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Yeadon, PA 19050  (Online Only)
E EMDR trained and use as appropriate with clients.
Hi! My name is Jasmine and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Greater Philadelphia, and Nashville area who specializes in trauma informed care, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous People of Color), anxiety, depression, and life changes. I have a passion for helping individuals navigate through difficult times and empowering them to live their best lives.
E EMDR trained and use as appropriate with clients.
Hi! My name is Jasmine and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the Greater Philadelphia, and Nashville area who specializes in trauma informed care, BIPOC (Black, Indigenous People of Color), anxiety, depression, and life changes. I have a passion for helping individuals navigate through difficult times and empowering them to live their best lives.
(267) 296-8867 View (267) 296-8867
Photo of Cameron Cready-Pyle, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cameron Cready-Pyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083
I am an EMDR-certified clinician offering comprehensive help with your trauma, negative self-talk, and boundary-setting.
No matter what you do, it never feels like success. When you aren't overwhelmed, it feels like you aren't doing enough, for yourself or your family. You came here because you know that this pattern of thinking is not what you want, but sometimes it feels like you might not deserve to feel better. I'm here to ask you one thing: doesn't every person deserve to live a life that centers around joy? I can help you to reach the potential of the life that you envision for yourself. Working with me, you can begin to notice hope about your future and confidence in your actions.
I am an EMDR-certified clinician offering comprehensive help with your trauma, negative self-talk, and boundary-setting.
No matter what you do, it never feels like success. When you aren't overwhelmed, it feels like you aren't doing enough, for yourself or your family. You came here because you know that this pattern of thinking is not what you want, but sometimes it feels like you might not deserve to feel better. I'm here to ask you one thing: doesn't every person deserve to live a life that centers around joy? I can help you to reach the potential of the life that you envision for yourself. Working with me, you can begin to notice hope about your future and confidence in your actions.
(215) 273-9423 View (215) 273-9423
Photo of Kealsey Beecham, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kealsey Beecham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Philadelphia, PA 19143  (Online Only)
Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Prolonged Exposure (PE).
I am a passionate therapist whose mission is to help you to achieve emotional wellness. As a licensed clinical social worker, I’ve practiced therapy for over 7 years in a variety of settings. My therapeutic treatment modalities include Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure and Solution Focused Brief Therapy with an understanding of choosing from eclectic, appropriate modalities to meet the client’s needs. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health diagnoses including: anxiety, depression, trauma, and bipolar disorder and substance abuse.
Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Prolonged Exposure (PE).
I am a passionate therapist whose mission is to help you to achieve emotional wellness. As a licensed clinical social worker, I’ve practiced therapy for over 7 years in a variety of settings. My therapeutic treatment modalities include Cognitive and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Prolonged Exposure and Solution Focused Brief Therapy with an understanding of choosing from eclectic, appropriate modalities to meet the client’s needs. I have experience treating a wide variety of mental health diagnoses including: anxiety, depression, trauma, and bipolar disorder and substance abuse.
(215) 883-4896 View (215) 883-4896
Photo of Johnnie Marie Berry, LCSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Johnnie Marie Berry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
Yeadon, PA 19050  (Online Only)
ACC (Acceptance and Commitment towards Change) LLC takes a holistic approach to helping individuals with mental health & behavioral concerns (currently through telehealth). My goal is to empower and assist individuals, families, and groups heal through the process of change. Currently working towards certification in EMDR.
ACC (Acceptance and Commitment towards Change) LLC takes a holistic approach to helping individuals with mental health & behavioral concerns (currently through telehealth). My goal is to empower and assist individuals, families, and groups heal through the process of change. Currently working towards certification in EMDR.
(215) 201-4654 View (215) 201-4654
Photo of Ali Hittman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ali Hittman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lower Merion, PA 19083
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), which can be done virtually, and enjoy integrating that with psychoanalysis.
I strive to provide therapy that helps my clients to feel both cared for and supported. Whether it be the dissolution of a marriage, the birth of a child, or a difficult interpersonal relationship, together we will work to understand your experience of these major life transitions. We will explore your values, what you hope to gain from therapy, and how you see your life becoming more fulfilling.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), which can be done virtually, and enjoy integrating that with psychoanalysis.
I strive to provide therapy that helps my clients to feel both cared for and supported. Whether it be the dissolution of a marriage, the birth of a child, or a difficult interpersonal relationship, together we will work to understand your experience of these major life transitions. We will explore your values, what you hope to gain from therapy, and how you see your life becoming more fulfilling.
(484) 214-2941 View (484) 214-2941
Photo of Sam Paris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sam Paris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wynnewood, PA 19096
I am a psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of complex trauma and PTSD. I believe in creating a relatable and safe space to work through the toughest parts of our past. While some trauma is overt, such as PTSD, other traumas can be hidden behind depression or anxiety. Emotional traumas can even arise from being raised by parents or guardians with personality disorders. I have over 10 years of experience using EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic interventions to address various forms of trauma.
I am a psychotherapist specializing in the treatment of complex trauma and PTSD. I believe in creating a relatable and safe space to work through the toughest parts of our past. While some trauma is overt, such as PTSD, other traumas can be hidden behind depression or anxiety. Emotional traumas can even arise from being raised by parents or guardians with personality disorders. I have over 10 years of experience using EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and somatic interventions to address various forms of trauma.
(484) 214-2825 View (484) 214-2825
Photo of Myriam Rosefort, LCSW , LBSC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Myriam Rosefort
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , LBSC
Verified Verified
Lansdowne, PA 19050
In addition, I am trauma informed and Iam trained in EMDR.
Doesn't it feel like life can be so unpredictable sometimes. Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? I’m a firm believer that it is important to meet clients where they are at and to be culturally sensitive. My therapeutic style is holistic and eclectic. I take great pride in assuring my clients that this is a safe space where they can vent, express themselves freely, feel validated, and not be judged. I specialize in individual therapy, marriage and family therapy. My objective is to create a safe space for you to assist you with processing your traumas, challenges, and areas in which you feel stuck.
In addition, I am trauma informed and Iam trained in EMDR.
Doesn't it feel like life can be so unpredictable sometimes. Sometimes you may feel overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? I’m a firm believer that it is important to meet clients where they are at and to be culturally sensitive. My therapeutic style is holistic and eclectic. I take great pride in assuring my clients that this is a safe space where they can vent, express themselves freely, feel validated, and not be judged. I specialize in individual therapy, marriage and family therapy. My objective is to create a safe space for you to assist you with processing your traumas, challenges, and areas in which you feel stuck.
(484) 261-1380 View (484) 261-1380
Photo of Maribeth (Liz) Younger - Liz Younger, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Younger, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Havertown, PA 19083  (Online Only)
I am a trauma focused therapist trained in EMDR .
My therapeutic philosophy is that Individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own hard work. My experience in social work is deliberately broad to address a wide range of concerns. My background includes child development/behavioral issues, couples counseling, adolescent, geriatric, vocational/employment counseling, chronic disease case management and Life coaching.
I am a trauma focused therapist trained in EMDR .
My therapeutic philosophy is that Individuals need to be a part of their own solutions. I strive to empower clients to feel that their successes come from themselves and are the result of their own hard work. My experience in social work is deliberately broad to address a wide range of concerns. My background includes child development/behavioral issues, couples counseling, adolescent, geriatric, vocational/employment counseling, chronic disease case management and Life coaching.
(610) 708-2376 View (610) 708-2376
Photo of Eileen Woods, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eileen Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Darby, PA 19023
Other interventions include family/marriage therapy, EMDR and several of other evidence based modalities.
Eileen has worked in Human Services since 1995 and has 22 years of experience as a Mental Health Therapist. She has extensive experience and training in trauma, anxiety and depression, as well as other diagnoses. Her work utilizes many modalities but what she finds 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 interventions include family/marriage therapy, EMDR and several of other evidence based modalities.
Eileen has worked in Human Services since 1995 and has 22 years of experience as a Mental Health Therapist. She has extensive experience and training in trauma, anxiety and depression, as well as other diagnoses. Her work utilizes many modalities but what she finds 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 Fritz Haas, MA, IATP, NCC, AAPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fritz Haas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, IATP, NCC, AAPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Drexel Hill, PA 19026
As a counselor, I have developed a specialty in working with clients who have experienced trauma in their lives. I am a certified Trauma Therapist and I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, CBT and various Mindfulness skills and practices. Professionally, I work hard to continue to develop my skills as a counselor through my work with clients, regularly attending professional development classes and through interactions with colleagues.
As a counselor, I have developed a specialty in working with clients who have experienced trauma in their lives. I am a certified Trauma Therapist and I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, CBT and various Mindfulness skills and practices. Professionally, I work hard to continue to develop my skills as a counselor through my work with clients, regularly attending professional development classes and through interactions with colleagues.
(610) 490-8139 View (610) 490-8139
Photo of Joyce Livingston, MEd, MAC, EMDR
Joyce Livingston
MEd, MAC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Lansdowne, PA 19050
I specialize in Life Coaching, Behavior Modification techniques, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
I am a Clinical Mental Health therapist with certifications in Addiction and Family Therapy. I have over 30 years experience helping individuals and families to become drug-free, and helping to empower individuals, couples and families in creating a healthy, loving, prosperous environment. My style is to explore their total health issues and challenges. My method is to develop a plan to assist/coach clients to grow, step-by-step, to overcome their life challenges. I have studied Clinical Counseling, Family, Addiction and Behavior Modification Therapies for many years. I have also studied Family Therapy Post-Graduate for 2 years.
I specialize in Life Coaching, Behavior Modification techniques, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
I am a Clinical Mental Health therapist with certifications in Addiction and Family Therapy. I have over 30 years experience helping individuals and families to become drug-free, and helping to empower individuals, couples and families in creating a healthy, loving, prosperous environment. My style is to explore their total health issues and challenges. My method is to develop a plan to assist/coach clients to grow, step-by-step, to overcome their life challenges. I have studied Clinical Counseling, Family, Addiction and Behavior Modification Therapies for many years. I have also studied Family Therapy Post-Graduate for 2 years.
(484) 214-2179 View (484) 214-2179

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.