EMDR Therapists in South Dakota

Photo of Pamala Topp, MA,  LPC, CCTP-II, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pamala Topp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watertown, SD 57201
I primarily utilize CBT, DBT-informed, EMDR, Play Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy.
My aim is to work with clients who struggle with feeling disconnected from themselves, others, and are anxious, overwhelmed, uncertain about how they are supposed to manage all the aspects of their lives. When we push our needs aside to without taking time for yourself, this can lead to frustration, resentment, anxiety, depression and stress. I work with you to be able to resolve the barriers that are keeping you from living a full and meaningful life.
I primarily utilize CBT, DBT-informed, EMDR, Play Therapy and Expressive Arts Therapy.
My aim is to work with clients who struggle with feeling disconnected from themselves, others, and are anxious, overwhelmed, uncertain about how they are supposed to manage all the aspects of their lives. When we push our needs aside to without taking time for yourself, this can lead to frustration, resentment, anxiety, depression and stress. I work with you to be able to resolve the barriers that are keeping you from living a full and meaningful life.
(605) 741-4375 View (605) 741-4375
Photo of Kelsey Theesfeld, CSW-PIP, LAC, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelsey Theesfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP, LAC, QMHP
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), levels 2 and 3 of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and DBT for substance use disorders.
I have experience working in a variety of mental health settings including a detox facility, correctional facility, inpatient hospital, and community mental health. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. My areas of interest include severe mental illness, substance use, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, criminal justice involvement, and life transitions.
I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), levels 2 and 3 of Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and DBT for substance use disorders.
I have experience working in a variety of mental health settings including a detox facility, correctional facility, inpatient hospital, and community mental health. I enjoy working with adolescents and adults. My areas of interest include severe mental illness, substance use, co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, trauma, criminal justice involvement, and life transitions.
(605) 570-5732 View (605) 570-5732
Photo of Anna Perry, CSW-PIP, RYT, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Perry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP, RYT, MSW
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
As a licensed clinical social worker and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) trained teacher I use cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR and mindfulness to help facilitate healing.
Everyone needs help sometimes. Depression, anxiety and grief are common responses to difficulties in life. These difficulties can stem from issues such as stress, trauma or serious health concerns but there is hope!
As a licensed clinical social worker and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) trained teacher I use cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR and mindfulness to help facilitate healing.
Everyone needs help sometimes. Depression, anxiety and grief are common responses to difficulties in life. These difficulties can stem from issues such as stress, trauma or serious health concerns but there is hope!
(605) 460-6339 View (605) 460-6339
Photo of Amanda K Boer, Intern, BA, RYT-200, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amanda K Boer
Pre-Licensed Professional, Intern, BA, RYT-200
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
I am training September 2024 in EMDR as well.
Hi all! I am a 2nd year MSW graduate student at USD working as an intern mental health therapist at Linking the Gap Counseling. My ideal clients are women and teen girls who are struggling or feeling as if they do not fit in. Specialty areas to process include parental/caregiver burnout, ongoing health issues, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, neurodiversity, ADHD, creative burnout, navigating health issues of children, homeschooling, attachment issues from childhood, and unexpected life disruptions. I also am happy to work with couples navigating relationship issues. My office is LGBTQ+ friendly.
I am training September 2024 in EMDR as well.
Hi all! I am a 2nd year MSW graduate student at USD working as an intern mental health therapist at Linking the Gap Counseling. My ideal clients are women and teen girls who are struggling or feeling as if they do not fit in. Specialty areas to process include parental/caregiver burnout, ongoing health issues, depression, anxiety, perfectionism, neurodiversity, ADHD, creative burnout, navigating health issues of children, homeschooling, attachment issues from childhood, and unexpected life disruptions. I also am happy to work with couples navigating relationship issues. My office is LGBTQ+ friendly.
(605) 640-6782 View (605) 640-6782
Photo of Crystal Kapperman, MA,  LPC, QMHP, CFRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Kapperman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, QMHP, CFRC
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
I help people work through difficult experiences so that they can live a more full and hopeful life. My approach to therapy is very relational and I believe that through the therapeutic relationship, one can begin to heal old wounds. I am trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), which helps in processing and changing the way one thinks of themselves in the face of traumatic events.
I help people work through difficult experiences so that they can live a more full and hopeful life. My approach to therapy is very relational and I believe that through the therapeutic relationship, one can begin to heal old wounds. I am trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), which helps in processing and changing the way one thinks of themselves in the face of traumatic events.
(605) 210-5832 View (605) 210-5832
Photo of Zebiba Zere, MSW, LCSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Zebiba Zere
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
I integrate evidence-based techniques like EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, and client-centered interventions.
Accepting New Clients! Discovering the right therapist can be the key to embracing your journey of growth and healing with confidence. With experience assisting clients through a diverse array of challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem struggles, family conflicts, communication hurdles, and trauma, I'm here to offer compassionate support tailored to your unique needs.
I integrate evidence-based techniques like EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, and client-centered interventions.
Accepting New Clients! Discovering the right therapist can be the key to embracing your journey of growth and healing with confidence. With experience assisting clients through a diverse array of challenges such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues, self-esteem struggles, family conflicts, communication hurdles, and trauma, I'm here to offer compassionate support tailored to your unique needs.
(605) 316-3850 View (605) 316-3850
Photo of Lesley Atkins, MSW, CSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lesley Atkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burke, SD 57523
I have additional skills training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman Level 1 and 2(couples) CAMS suicide training, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Life to me is an adventure of ups and downs where everyone has the potential to expand their emotional well-being. Through collaboration with the client, and often times a significant other or family, the therapeutic work done in session can promote a better quality of life.
I have additional skills training in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman Level 1 and 2(couples) CAMS suicide training, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Life to me is an adventure of ups and downs where everyone has the potential to expand their emotional well-being. Through collaboration with the client, and often times a significant other or family, the therapeutic work done in session can promote a better quality of life.
(605) 307-3079 View (605) 307-3079
Photo of Abby L Lawrence, MBA, MSW, LCSW, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abby L Lawrence
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, MSW, LCSW, QMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
I incorporate multiple modalities including EMDR, CBT, DBT and mind/body connection techniques – to help you find healing and discover your path to the life you want to live.
Life and relationships can be hard at times. We’ve all had moments where it seems too much to handle. There is hope though and you don’t have to navigate it alone. From anxiety, depression, trauma and all the places in between – using a person-centered approach, I partner with you to create a personal plan for healing.
I incorporate multiple modalities including EMDR, CBT, DBT and mind/body connection techniques – to help you find healing and discover your path to the life you want to live.
Life and relationships can be hard at times. We’ve all had moments where it seems too much to handle. There is hope though and you don’t have to navigate it alone. From anxiety, depression, trauma and all the places in between – using a person-centered approach, I partner with you to create a personal plan for healing.
(605) 989-2145 View (605) 989-2145
Photo of Orlando George, MA, NCC, LPC-Sup, Counselor
Orlando George
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-Sup
Verified Verified
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
I’m trained in EMDR which is essential to helping individuals deal with their trauma.
My love and passion is working with military and veterans communities providing readjustment counseling for those dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and marriage & family issues. I’m a combat veteran myself and empathize with the military community.
I’m trained in EMDR which is essential to helping individuals deal with their trauma.
My love and passion is working with military and veterans communities providing readjustment counseling for those dealing with depression, anxiety, PTSD, and marriage & family issues. I’m a combat veteran myself and empathize with the military community.
(605) 789-2793 View (605) 789-2793
Photo of April Bolton, MA, LPC-MH, QMHP, Counselor
April Bolton
Counselor, MA, LPC-MH, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57104
I am skilled in EMDR, Gottman couple's work, Brain spotting and person-centered therapy.
It is my passion to help people overcome life's obstacles and reach a place of peace and joy. I enjoy working with people going through life's many transitions. I also help couples of all types find ways to strengthen their relationships. I believe that everyone should have a safe space to talk about their ups and downs.
I am skilled in EMDR, Gottman couple's work, Brain spotting and person-centered therapy.
It is my passion to help people overcome life's obstacles and reach a place of peace and joy. I enjoy working with people going through life's many transitions. I also help couples of all types find ways to strengthen their relationships. I believe that everyone should have a safe space to talk about their ups and downs.
(605) 570-5575 View (605) 570-5575
Photo of Robin Rossow, MS, LPC-MH, NCC, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robin Rossow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-MH, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
I am specifically trained in EMDR to address traumatic experiences and utilize mindfulness-based skills to tackle anxiousness.
I help people who are feeling anxious, stuck, overwhelmed, or plagued by old or new "stuff". I love working with those who are ready for a change in their life, whether that be with their mood, behaviors, thoughts, or relationships. I've had the opportunity to work with and help many who identify as feeling anxious, depressed, struggling with relationships or communication, or those looking to overcome current or past trauma. I have witnessed these persons work through their struggles and live healthy, happy lives full of meaning. I am steady, yet compassionate and am committed to my client's healing.
I am specifically trained in EMDR to address traumatic experiences and utilize mindfulness-based skills to tackle anxiousness.
I help people who are feeling anxious, stuck, overwhelmed, or plagued by old or new "stuff". I love working with those who are ready for a change in their life, whether that be with their mood, behaviors, thoughts, or relationships. I've had the opportunity to work with and help many who identify as feeling anxious, depressed, struggling with relationships or communication, or those looking to overcome current or past trauma. I have witnessed these persons work through their struggles and live healthy, happy lives full of meaning. I am steady, yet compassionate and am committed to my client's healing.
(605) 220-5079 View (605) 220-5079
Photo of Lindsay Bruckner, MSW , LCSWPIP, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsay Bruckner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LCSWPIP, QMHP
Verified Verified
Pierre, SD 57501
I believe it is important to work from a trauma-informed approach and also use EMDR to assist clients in reprocessing past trauma.
I offer therapy to individuals, families and couples who are hoping to make positive changes in their lives. I believe that the client is the expert in their own life and that I am there as a helpful resource to offer support, reflect on patterns of behavior that may no longer serve you, and to offer encouragement and guidance to release the painful hurt of the past while moving forward to embrace a better tomorrow.
I believe it is important to work from a trauma-informed approach and also use EMDR to assist clients in reprocessing past trauma.
I offer therapy to individuals, families and couples who are hoping to make positive changes in their lives. I believe that the client is the expert in their own life and that I am there as a helpful resource to offer support, reflect on patterns of behavior that may no longer serve you, and to offer encouragement and guidance to release the painful hurt of the past while moving forward to embrace a better tomorrow.
(605) 356-8377 View (605) 356-8377
Photo of Allison Parsons, NCC, QMHP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Allison Parsons
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57106
Using tailored strategies and EMDR techniques, I help clients identify their strengths, develop coping skills, and process past traumas.
My ideal client is someone seeking support across all stages of life—whether they are children, adolescents, or adults. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, self-esteem issues, or interpersonal difficulties. These individuals are looking for a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and ultimately improve their mental well-being. They aspire to harness their inner strengths, gain confidence, and cultivate the resilience needed to navigate life’s complexities. Their motivation for growth and transformation comes from a deep desire to lead a fulfilling and empowered life.
Using tailored strategies and EMDR techniques, I help clients identify their strengths, develop coping skills, and process past traumas.
My ideal client is someone seeking support across all stages of life—whether they are children, adolescents, or adults. They may be dealing with challenges such as anxiety, self-esteem issues, or interpersonal difficulties. These individuals are looking for a safe, non-judgmental space to explore their emotions, develop coping strategies, and ultimately improve their mental well-being. They aspire to harness their inner strengths, gain confidence, and cultivate the resilience needed to navigate life’s complexities. Their motivation for growth and transformation comes from a deep desire to lead a fulfilling and empowered life.
(605) 368-3028 View (605) 368-3028
Photo of Rita Hansen, LPC-MH, QMHP, LAC, NCC, MA, Counselor
Rita Hansen
Counselor, LPC-MH, QMHP, LAC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57105
I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Evening and Saturday, online or in-person appointments are offered. My hope is to provide a sense of connection in a world where we have become disconnected from each other. I possess a genuine and strong passion for walking with others on their journey towards good mental health and meaningful, happy lives. I have two decades of experience assisting others overcome their challenges and empowering individuals to achieve their goals. I believe in providing a safe, non-judgmental environment in which to explore areas for growth.
I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Evening and Saturday, online or in-person appointments are offered. My hope is to provide a sense of connection in a world where we have become disconnected from each other. I possess a genuine and strong passion for walking with others on their journey towards good mental health and meaningful, happy lives. I have two decades of experience assisting others overcome their challenges and empowering individuals to achieve their goals. I believe in providing a safe, non-judgmental environment in which to explore areas for growth.
(605) 206-2562 View (605) 206-2562
Photo of Tabitha Soderstrom South Dakota Trauma And Anxiety Therapist, MS, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tabitha Soderstrom South Dakota Trauma And Anxiety Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Watertown, SD 57201  (Online Only)
As a Christian therapist specializing in EMDR & CBT for trauma and anxiety, I help individual adults create positive coping skills to navigate anxiety and depression and process traumatic memories.
Dealing with constant worry, anxiety, or self-doubt can feel like an uphill battle. Events from your past might be affecting your day-to-day life, causing you to carry unnecessary guilt, shame, or fear. Maybe you feel like, no matter what you do, you simply aren’t good enough. Or maybe you’ve reached the end of your rope with flashbacks, nightmares, sleep issues, or anxiety attacks. No matter if you suffer from anxiety that you can’t explain or are able to trace your challenges back to specific events in your past, I am here to help you navigate from hurt to healing. At this time, I have daytime/weekday availability!
As a Christian therapist specializing in EMDR & CBT for trauma and anxiety, I help individual adults create positive coping skills to navigate anxiety and depression and process traumatic memories.
Dealing with constant worry, anxiety, or self-doubt can feel like an uphill battle. Events from your past might be affecting your day-to-day life, causing you to carry unnecessary guilt, shame, or fear. Maybe you feel like, no matter what you do, you simply aren’t good enough. Or maybe you’ve reached the end of your rope with flashbacks, nightmares, sleep issues, or anxiety attacks. No matter if you suffer from anxiety that you can’t explain or are able to trace your challenges back to specific events in your past, I am here to help you navigate from hurt to healing. At this time, I have daytime/weekday availability!
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Photo of Tina Harp, MS, QMHP, LPC-MH, Counselor
Tina Harp
Counselor, MS, QMHP, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
I am trained in EMDR.
I strive to help individuals work towards peace and balance in the complex lives we all lead. An important part of therapy that is often lost when attempting to change or in dealing with change in general is to be at peace with the process. Life has many unplanned twists and turns, and I want to help each person be able to deal with life's challenges with grace and balance.
I am trained in EMDR.
I strive to help individuals work towards peace and balance in the complex lives we all lead. An important part of therapy that is often lost when attempting to change or in dealing with change in general is to be at peace with the process. Life has many unplanned twists and turns, and I want to help each person be able to deal with life's challenges with grace and balance.
(605) 223-1924 View (605) 223-1924
Photo of Dr. Cassandra Leow, PhD, LIMHP, LMFT, CMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Cassandra Leow
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LIMHP, LMFT, CMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57701
I am trained in Gottman (Level 1), EMDR and use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in my work.
Mental illness does not discriminate; everyone can struggle with challenges that are unique to them, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues and many more. It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy; it involves facing our shortcomings and accepting that we need help. It is a journey of self-discovery and growth, and it is an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and grow to be the person we were always made to be. This journey is a vulnerable journey, and therapy can serve as a safe space and supportive environment to help you reach your goals and lead fulfilling lives.
I am trained in Gottman (Level 1), EMDR and use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy in my work.
Mental illness does not discriminate; everyone can struggle with challenges that are unique to them, such as anxiety, depression, relationship issues and many more. It takes a lot of courage to seek therapy; it involves facing our shortcomings and accepting that we need help. It is a journey of self-discovery and growth, and it is an opportunity to learn more about ourselves and grow to be the person we were always made to be. This journey is a vulnerable journey, and therapy can serve as a safe space and supportive environment to help you reach your goals and lead fulfilling lives.
(402) 937-1767 View (402) 937-1767
Photo of Madison Kyle, MSW, CSW-PIP, QMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madison Kyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CSW-PIP, QMHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
I have additional training which informs my practice in theraplay, EMDR, sexual health, and performance.
While I've worked with a wide spectrum of clients over the years the best fit client in my practice is a person between 0-25 who has difficulty with anxiety and/or relationships whether that is family or intimate in nature. Goals related to these difficulties are often managing anxiety, increasing coping skills, improving family relationships, and processing trauma if present. I have training in Theraplay which is an attachment focused modality which engages both child and caregiver to increase secure attachment which in turn decreases undesirable behaviors. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR.
I have additional training which informs my practice in theraplay, EMDR, sexual health, and performance.
While I've worked with a wide spectrum of clients over the years the best fit client in my practice is a person between 0-25 who has difficulty with anxiety and/or relationships whether that is family or intimate in nature. Goals related to these difficulties are often managing anxiety, increasing coping skills, improving family relationships, and processing trauma if present. I have training in Theraplay which is an attachment focused modality which engages both child and caregiver to increase secure attachment which in turn decreases undesirable behaviors. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR.
(605) 460-6569 View (605) 460-6569
Photo of Chelsey Groseclose, MA, NCC, LPC-MH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chelsey Groseclose
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-MH
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rapid City, SD 57701  (Online Only)
I operate from a Person Centered approach and pull from theories like Solution Focused, Dialectical Behavioral, Cognitive Behavioral theories & EMDR to inform my practice.
First of all, I am so glad you are here. Settle in, take off your proverbial shoes, & make yourself comfortable. I'll help you unlock potential and reclaim joy in your life again. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgemental, & empathetic space to foster growth. Therapy is a co-created relationship, team effort & requires honest connection. A part of my quest to support you lies in cultivating a place for you to explore concerns honestly with humor, creativity, compassion & allow intimate emotions to emerge with safety. I enjoy working with young adults 18+, the LGBTQIA+ community & relationship concerns.
I operate from a Person Centered approach and pull from theories like Solution Focused, Dialectical Behavioral, Cognitive Behavioral theories & EMDR to inform my practice.
First of all, I am so glad you are here. Settle in, take off your proverbial shoes, & make yourself comfortable. I'll help you unlock potential and reclaim joy in your life again. I believe in creating a safe, non-judgemental, & empathetic space to foster growth. Therapy is a co-created relationship, team effort & requires honest connection. A part of my quest to support you lies in cultivating a place for you to explore concerns honestly with humor, creativity, compassion & allow intimate emotions to emerge with safety. I enjoy working with young adults 18+, the LGBTQIA+ community & relationship concerns.
(605) 667-5583 View (605) 667-5583
Photo of Amanda Briggs Davis, CSW-PIP, QMHP, EMDR-C, ACS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Briggs Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-PIP, QMHP, EMDR-C, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sioux Falls, SD 57108
Counseling is an effective way to learn skills to more effectively manage thoughts and emotions, work to desensitize unprocessed traumatic memories with EMDR and Brainspotting, or navigate any challenges you may be facing - mood, relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss.
I know life can be dark and complicated. This may be one of those moments. Breathe. Remember it hasn't always been like this. Life is filled with hard things, and emotions can rise to become very intense, and they calm. I'm here to support you through this. I accept you for who you are, just as you are, and I'm here for you.
Counseling is an effective way to learn skills to more effectively manage thoughts and emotions, work to desensitize unprocessed traumatic memories with EMDR and Brainspotting, or navigate any challenges you may be facing - mood, relationship issues, life transitions, grief and loss.
I know life can be dark and complicated. This may be one of those moments. Breathe. Remember it hasn't always been like this. Life is filled with hard things, and emotions can rise to become very intense, and they calm. I'm here to support you through this. I accept you for who you are, just as you are, and I'm here for you.
(605) 316-3252 View (605) 316-3252
1

See more therapy options for South Dakota

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.