EMDR Therapists in White Oak, PA
![Photo of Philicia A Barbieri - Elevate Wellness and Recovery , LPC, CAADC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f0d30243-b286-4ea9-bb47-8ee25ec9ab07/1/320x400.jpeg)
Elevate Wellness and Recovery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC
Verified Verified
White Oak, PA 15131
Welcome, I am glad you are here! I am a licensed Therapist with 10+ years of experience. I specialize in a mental health and addiction issues. I have worked in a variety of settings including licensed substance use treatment centers, outpatient community mental health, and community based mental health treatment. I use an integrative approach of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, skill building . I am also trained in EMDR. I work with each person to set goals, either short term or long term, and then help them find their path to achieving those goals.
Welcome, I am glad you are here! I am a licensed Therapist with 10+ years of experience. I specialize in a mental health and addiction issues. I have worked in a variety of settings including licensed substance use treatment centers, outpatient community mental health, and community based mental health treatment. I use an integrative approach of cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, skill building . I am also trained in EMDR. I work with each person to set goals, either short term or long term, and then help them find their path to achieving those goals.
![Photo of Dane R Franko, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ee9f030-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Dane R Franko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Oak, PA 15131
I utilize EMDR and resourcing skills to help individuals work through trauma and fixed-states.
Do you feel like your isolated, stuck, out-of-control, depressed, anxious, having difficulty relating to others, drinking/using substances too much, or just lacking a sense of direction/purpose? Do you get the sense that the world is against you or that whatever you do it’s not enough? For 20 years, I have honed my style to support personal growth by helping individuals honor/understand his/her/their style as necessary for survival, while promoting development of newer/adaptive styles that enable meaningful relationships, enhanced self-confidence, meet challenges of aging, life-transitions, grief/loss, trauma, and anger management.
I utilize EMDR and resourcing skills to help individuals work through trauma and fixed-states.
Do you feel like your isolated, stuck, out-of-control, depressed, anxious, having difficulty relating to others, drinking/using substances too much, or just lacking a sense of direction/purpose? Do you get the sense that the world is against you or that whatever you do it’s not enough? For 20 years, I have honed my style to support personal growth by helping individuals honor/understand his/her/their style as necessary for survival, while promoting development of newer/adaptive styles that enable meaningful relationships, enhanced self-confidence, meet challenges of aging, life-transitions, grief/loss, trauma, and anger management.
![Photo of Barbara L Check - White Oak Counseling, Inc., LCSW, MS, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/5eff24f0-beff-4a3a-b10e-df9ad064e83e/1/320x400.jpeg)
White Oak Counseling, Inc.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MS, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
White Oak, PA 15131
You've taken the first step in overcoming challenges you face. Now, it comes to finding the therapist that is the right match, who can provide you with a compassionate place so you can explore and find the answers you are looking for. We are committed in helping you deal with challenges you face with a collaborative approach. Our goal is to find the most effective way to help you recognize and utilize your internal strengths, ultimately giving you the ability to control and improve your life.
You've taken the first step in overcoming challenges you face. Now, it comes to finding the therapist that is the right match, who can provide you with a compassionate place so you can explore and find the answers you are looking for. We are committed in helping you deal with challenges you face with a collaborative approach. Our goal is to find the most effective way to help you recognize and utilize your internal strengths, ultimately giving you the ability to control and improve your life.
![Photo of Claire Campero - Norwin Counseling & Wellness LLC, LPC, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/aa25162e-688e-40ad-bab8-399831e04ea0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Norwin Counseling & Wellness LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
White Oak, PA 15131
Now accepting new clients with most major insurance plans. We have day and evening availability as well as in person or telehealth. We treat a number of mental health concerns, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. We will create a tailored treatment plan to best meet your needs and goals. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
Now accepting new clients with most major insurance plans. We have day and evening availability as well as in person or telehealth. We treat a number of mental health concerns, and provide a neutral ground to individuals, families, and couples. We will create a tailored treatment plan to best meet your needs and goals. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life.
![Photo of Lauren Sandulli - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0511405-69f0-44d7-a5fc-41c65a2416ed/2/320x400.jpeg)
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
White Oak, PA 15131
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.
![Photo of Fran Meenan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c5b036f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Fran Meenan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
White Oak, PA 15131 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. Painful past experiences, whether they occurred in childhood or recently, influence our moods, behavior and relationships often in surprising ways. These experiences can intensify depression, anxiety and panic, marital stress, self-esteem issues, health crises and other conditions. I work with those struggling with the difficulties that follow recent and past experiences of stress or abuse. Negotiating the changes in our world and healing some of the broken places in our lives is challenging.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 25 years. Painful past experiences, whether they occurred in childhood or recently, influence our moods, behavior and relationships often in surprising ways. These experiences can intensify depression, anxiety and panic, marital stress, self-esteem issues, health crises and other conditions. I work with those struggling with the difficulties that follow recent and past experiences of stress or abuse. Negotiating the changes in our world and healing some of the broken places in our lives is challenging.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Lauren Lazar Stern, MA, LPC, ATR-BC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/690e77d5-edfc-46fe-8efa-9b2b83c4bfdd/1/320x400.jpeg)
Lauren Lazar Stern
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15206 (Online Only)
Recovering from an eating disorder and/or severe trauma can frequently be difficult. My broad training and extensive experience enables me to work with patients in a variety of ways including traditional therapeutic approaches, the incorporation of art therapy as a component of treatment, and the use of EMDR. I work with each individual patient to determine the type of approach that best matches her personality and therapeutic needs. I have been one of the first psychotherapists to make use of expressive arts and EMDR in the treatment of eating disorders.
Recovering from an eating disorder and/or severe trauma can frequently be difficult. My broad training and extensive experience enables me to work with patients in a variety of ways including traditional therapeutic approaches, the incorporation of art therapy as a component of treatment, and the use of EMDR. I work with each individual patient to determine the type of approach that best matches her personality and therapeutic needs. I have been one of the first psychotherapists to make use of expressive arts and EMDR in the treatment of eating disorders.
![Photo of Alyssa Sullinger, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ba1490ac-90ce-4d9e-b6bc-2b9129fcf09b/2/320x400.jpeg)
Alyssa Sullinger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Munhall, PA 15120 (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor training in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) who is dedicated to helping clients overcome their past and design their future by reprocessing traumatic memories, building a relationship with their adult self, and creating new systems that build resiliency.
Are you a millennial or Gen Z Christian woman struggling with anxiety in your relationships? You're not alone. My name is Alyssa, and I specialize in helping young women like you navigate the complexities of anxiety, attachment, and codependency through a unique blend of psychological principles and Christian faith. I also specialize in helping those suffering from religious trauma or who are looking to reconnect with their faith.
I am a licensed professional counselor training in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) who is dedicated to helping clients overcome their past and design their future by reprocessing traumatic memories, building a relationship with their adult self, and creating new systems that build resiliency.
Are you a millennial or Gen Z Christian woman struggling with anxiety in your relationships? You're not alone. My name is Alyssa, and I specialize in helping young women like you navigate the complexities of anxiety, attachment, and codependency through a unique blend of psychological principles and Christian faith. I also specialize in helping those suffering from religious trauma or who are looking to reconnect with their faith.
![Photo of Wendy M McSparren, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0547ef1a-7d16-4e11-8070-4dedf3647258/1/320x400.jpeg)
Wendy M McSparren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murrysville, PA 15668
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 34+ years of experience, I have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR.
I believe as human beings we all need to feel a sense of hope and we all deserve support during challenging or stressful times. Selecting a therapist can feel overwhelming when we are struggling or feel lost. My approach is to meet you where you are, work together to determine what best meets your needs, and to collaboratively create a plan that helps you achieve your goals.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 34+ years of experience, I have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR.
I believe as human beings we all need to feel a sense of hope and we all deserve support during challenging or stressful times. Selecting a therapist can feel overwhelming when we are struggling or feel lost. My approach is to meet you where you are, work together to determine what best meets your needs, and to collaboratively create a plan that helps you achieve your goals.
![Photo of Michael Anderson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6b7cdaee-88a6-44c0-bf5d-faf4c152d670/1/320x400.jpeg)
Michael Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, PA 15227
Waitlist for new clients
If you come to therapy knowing what you want, I can support you with a personalized variety of clinical approaches, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness.
Even when we feel lost, there is always a path to a more hopeful future. As your therapist, I can help you find your way forward: Toward your goals, toward self-understanding, and toward peace and satisfaction. I’ve worked with people from many walks of life successfully and focus on helping those who find their lives unmanageable or fundamentally unfulfilling, especially when it involves difficult childhoods or traumatic experiences. I make space in our sessions to give genuine human support, from philosophical soul searching to practical goal setting, with a balance of humility, humor, and psychological insights.
If you come to therapy knowing what you want, I can support you with a personalized variety of clinical approaches, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, DBT, and mindfulness.
Even when we feel lost, there is always a path to a more hopeful future. As your therapist, I can help you find your way forward: Toward your goals, toward self-understanding, and toward peace and satisfaction. I’ve worked with people from many walks of life successfully and focus on helping those who find their lives unmanageable or fundamentally unfulfilling, especially when it involves difficult childhoods or traumatic experiences. I make space in our sessions to give genuine human support, from philosophical soul searching to practical goal setting, with a balance of humility, humor, and psychological insights.
![Photo of Kathleen McGrath, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cdf9388-cd1f-45ca-92b8-9cecfdf3e7eb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Kathleen McGrath
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15206
I am trained in EMDR therapy and am working towards being certified.
My ideal client is looking to become authentically themself. They would be motivated to change and curious about what has brought them to where they are. They want to process their trauma so that it is no longer upsetting but is simply part of their story. I don't want to specify too much here, as I don't want anyone to feel excluded. If you are curious and want help, I am here for you!
I am trained in EMDR therapy and am working towards being certified.
My ideal client is looking to become authentically themself. They would be motivated to change and curious about what has brought them to where they are. They want to process their trauma so that it is no longer upsetting but is simply part of their story. I don't want to specify too much here, as I don't want anyone to feel excluded. If you are curious and want help, I am here for you!
![Photo of Tomilyn Ward, LPC, MPC, EMDR, PCIT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43c6141f-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
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.
![Photo of Laura Bauder, LPC, CAADC, ATR-BC, CCTP, EMDR-PT, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4ad000dc-f987-4b97-9f98-bcbc2207e94f/1/320x400.jpeg)
Laura Bauder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CAADC, ATR-BC, CCTP, EMDR-PT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Homestead, PA 15120 (Online Only)
Overcome trauma through EMDR and/or art therapy/talk therapy.
Overcome trauma through EMDR and/or art therapy/talk therapy.
![Photo of Dorothy Cashore, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/90c63a32-766f-4b8e-beec-f4d553a4f12a/1/320x400.jpeg)
My primary clinical influences are Gestalt therapy, Buddhist/mindfulness-based therapy, EMDR, and humanistic therapy.
I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, where I work with a wide range of struggles. I bring special expertise to self-image/self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief. As a holistic practitioner, I don’t limit my focus to treating symptoms or replacing behaviors. I work with body, spirit, heart, and gut, offering a space where you can step into a transformed relationship with yourself. I go underneath strategies and tools to help you develop inner resources, listen to your body and nervous system, let go of what no longer serves you, and bring new energy and clarity to your most important connections.
My primary clinical influences are Gestalt therapy, Buddhist/mindfulness-based therapy, EMDR, and humanistic therapy.
I bring over a decade of experience to my practice, where I work with a wide range of struggles. I bring special expertise to self-image/self-esteem issues, trauma, and grief. As a holistic practitioner, I don’t limit my focus to treating symptoms or replacing behaviors. I work with body, spirit, heart, and gut, offering a space where you can step into a transformed relationship with yourself. I go underneath strategies and tools to help you develop inner resources, listen to your body and nervous system, let go of what no longer serves you, and bring new energy and clarity to your most important connections.
![Photo of Courtney Ezzo - Saving Sanity, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/06e1a408-1cf6-4483-b9cb-7eaf77798365/1/320x400.png)
Saving Sanity, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsburgh, PA 15235
We take pride in the diverse expertise offered including: EMDR, Ketamine Therapy, Culturally sensitive counseling, LGBT+ competent counseling, eating disorders, Couples/Family Therapy, Child Therapy and Mental Health Evaluations.
Please visit our website to fill out the Therapy Intake Form and we will contact you! Saving Sanity, LLC is a private practice of Professional Counselors with a vision of inspiring individuals to achieve their greatest human potential. We have a mission to empower individuals by creating a supportive space in which personal growth and healing can occur. Please visit savingsanity.org to view our available therapists.
We take pride in the diverse expertise offered including: EMDR, Ketamine Therapy, Culturally sensitive counseling, LGBT+ competent counseling, eating disorders, Couples/Family Therapy, Child Therapy and Mental Health Evaluations.
Please visit our website to fill out the Therapy Intake Form and we will contact you! Saving Sanity, LLC is a private practice of Professional Counselors with a vision of inspiring individuals to achieve their greatest human potential. We have a mission to empower individuals by creating a supportive space in which personal growth and healing can occur. Please visit savingsanity.org to view our available therapists.
![Photo of Samantha J Lacy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2a15f6be-60c3-4d0d-b250-dad9a32876e4/2/320x400.jpeg)
Samantha J Lacy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Park, PA 15129
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (trauma-based therapy) primarily, though also pull concepts from other modalities.
Are you currently living your best life? Are you living your truth? Or maybe events from your past and/or present are weighing on you and you're not sure what to do at this point or where to turn. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who prides myself on my ability to help others achieve their therapeutic goals and be the best version of themselves. I have over 18 years of experience in the field of psychology, and have worked in many different settings such as partial hospital, IBHS, Social Skills programming, school settings, and Outpatient MH. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (trauma-based therapy) primarily, though also pull concepts from other modalities.
Are you currently living your best life? Are you living your truth? Or maybe events from your past and/or present are weighing on you and you're not sure what to do at this point or where to turn. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who prides myself on my ability to help others achieve their therapeutic goals and be the best version of themselves. I have over 18 years of experience in the field of psychology, and have worked in many different settings such as partial hospital, IBHS, Social Skills programming, school settings, and Outpatient MH. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, and adults.
![Photo of DaiDra Thompson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d76514b3-1718-41db-886b-5e2bf47889dd/2/320x400.png)
I have specialized training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused therapy.
I believe everyone possesses a set of skills and strengths to navigate through life's ups and downs. Unfortunately, life happens and sometimes it may become harder to access or see your strengths. As your therapist I'm here to help aid you through your journey of healing, while helping you to access and gain more strengths to meet your goals. I don't believe therapy should be treated with a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, I take the time to listen and understand the uniqueness of your personal experiences. As a therapist I take a person-centered approach and meet you where you are.
I have specialized training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, and Solution-Focused therapy.
I believe everyone possesses a set of skills and strengths to navigate through life's ups and downs. Unfortunately, life happens and sometimes it may become harder to access or see your strengths. As your therapist I'm here to help aid you through your journey of healing, while helping you to access and gain more strengths to meet your goals. I don't believe therapy should be treated with a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, I take the time to listen and understand the uniqueness of your personal experiences. As a therapist I take a person-centered approach and meet you where you are.
![Photo of Meagan Scott, MA, NCC, CAADC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/39b02a51-f4f6-462f-b0dd-c00ff8661b99/1/320x400.jpeg)
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!
![Photo of Haley Faragher, LPC, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/56aa1e17-66e8-4cfb-8247-c42be5a776a7/1/320x400.jpeg)
Haley Faragher
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Pittsburgh, PA 15122 (Online Only)
I have a passion for working with complex trauma/EMDR and prioritize helping clients become more grounded and connected to their bodies.
You may have come across my bio as you are considering therapy. It can feel scary and out of our comfort zones to ask for help, but I commend you for doing so. I strive to make therapy a safe space where you feel supported to learn about yourself and grow/heal in any way you find necessary. I like to approach the counseling relationship from a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental, and understanding viewpoint. I understand that trauma impacts us all differently, thus I strive to keep things relaxed and I am mindful to operate through a trauma-informed lens as we all come from different walks of life with various life experiences.
I have a passion for working with complex trauma/EMDR and prioritize helping clients become more grounded and connected to their bodies.
You may have come across my bio as you are considering therapy. It can feel scary and out of our comfort zones to ask for help, but I commend you for doing so. I strive to make therapy a safe space where you feel supported to learn about yourself and grow/heal in any way you find necessary. I like to approach the counseling relationship from a warm, empathetic, non-judgmental, and understanding viewpoint. I understand that trauma impacts us all differently, thus I strive to keep things relaxed and I am mindful to operate through a trauma-informed lens as we all come from different walks of life with various life experiences.
![Photo of Kate Rudd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47caa286-a2dc-4538-9892-8a182839e366/2/320x400.jpeg)
I use evidence-informed practices and integrate cognitive behavioral therapy to heal trauma (EMDR), manage chronic disease like depression and anxiety (Stanford University certified), and create healthy routines, including better sleep habits.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help managing it. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity, and courage.
I use evidence-informed practices and integrate cognitive behavioral therapy to heal trauma (EMDR), manage chronic disease like depression and anxiety (Stanford University certified), and create healthy routines, including better sleep habits.
Change, even good change, is hard. Life transitions happen to all of us and sometimes we need help managing it. Together, we will find your path toward healing and growth, based on your innate self-compassion, dignity, and courage.
See more therapy options for White Oak
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for White Oak
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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.