EMDR Therapists in Millcreek, UT

Photo of Jacob Ostler, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacob Ostler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84117
I am trained in both EMDR and ART (accelerated resolution therapy).
What does healing mean for you? That is usually where I start in therapy. I work with the individual in a person centered approach where I collaborate with clients to give them a therapy plan just for them. My clients are the experts of their own life and experience, I approach my role as a therapist as one to empower and help guide my clients as they pursue goals we come up with together. I began working as a therapist in 2019.
I am trained in both EMDR and ART (accelerated resolution therapy).
What does healing mean for you? That is usually where I start in therapy. I work with the individual in a person centered approach where I collaborate with clients to give them a therapy plan just for them. My clients are the experts of their own life and experience, I approach my role as a therapist as one to empower and help guide my clients as they pursue goals we come up with together. I began working as a therapist in 2019.
(385) 475-3145 View (385) 475-3145
Photo of Tiana Saitman, ACMHC, Counselor
Tiana Saitman
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84117
Waitlist for new clients
Some of the specialized interventions I use are DBT, trauma focused CBT, EMDR and ERP.
My therapeutic passion revolves around fostering genuine connection and understanding while collaboratively seeking solutions for my clients. I am driven by the desire to empower individuals to discover their own path to happiness and well-being. I work with a variety of clients, which include adolescents and young adults navigating life transitions, healing from traumatic experiences, or grappling with anxiety disorders.
Some of the specialized interventions I use are DBT, trauma focused CBT, EMDR and ERP.
My therapeutic passion revolves around fostering genuine connection and understanding while collaboratively seeking solutions for my clients. I am driven by the desire to empower individuals to discover their own path to happiness and well-being. I work with a variety of clients, which include adolescents and young adults navigating life transitions, healing from traumatic experiences, or grappling with anxiety disorders.
(801) 823-2824 View (801) 823-2824
Photo of Lisa Boice, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Boice
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84124
Life has been quite challenging. Chances are you are reading this because you are wondering if meeting with someone outside of your current relationships could help. If you would like to make some changes to your current situation, I would be honored to meet with you to help identify ways to achieve a future you desire. My expertise is best demonstrated by my empathic listening skills, warmth and compassion. I am passionate about assisting people through life's challenges to reach a place of fulfillment. I offer a variety of tecniques to assist clients with the changes they are seeking, including attatchment focused EMDR.
Life has been quite challenging. Chances are you are reading this because you are wondering if meeting with someone outside of your current relationships could help. If you would like to make some changes to your current situation, I would be honored to meet with you to help identify ways to achieve a future you desire. My expertise is best demonstrated by my empathic listening skills, warmth and compassion. I am passionate about assisting people through life's challenges to reach a place of fulfillment. I offer a variety of tecniques to assist clients with the changes they are seeking, including attatchment focused EMDR.
(385) 412-6830 View (385) 412-6830
Photo of Eliza Howden, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Eliza Howden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84107
I am trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and have experience using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
I love being a therapist and consider working with individuals an honor, not just a job. I am passionate about helping individuals improve their present situation, process their past, and enjoy better mental health. I create my sessions around the belief that my clients are the experts in their experiences. I have experience and enjoy working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, trauma, and neurodivergent diagnoses, such as ADHD and autism (ASD). I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I am trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and have experience using cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT).
I love being a therapist and consider working with individuals an honor, not just a job. I am passionate about helping individuals improve their present situation, process their past, and enjoy better mental health. I create my sessions around the belief that my clients are the experts in their experiences. I have experience and enjoy working with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem concerns, trauma, and neurodivergent diagnoses, such as ADHD and autism (ASD). I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(385) 263-7695 View (385) 263-7695
Photo of Brandon Stewart Bunker, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Brandon Stewart Bunker
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84107
I am trained in EMDR, CBT, Psychodynamic, and Relational/ Attachment approaches.
Life can be difficult, presenting us with unanticipated obstacles that sometimes challenge our capacities to cope. Your decision to seek out a therapist is a courageous one and represents a significant personal step forward. I see therapy as a collaborative process to meet individuals where they are, so as to explore together what they want to get out of the therapeutic experience.
I am trained in EMDR, CBT, Psychodynamic, and Relational/ Attachment approaches.
Life can be difficult, presenting us with unanticipated obstacles that sometimes challenge our capacities to cope. Your decision to seek out a therapist is a courageous one and represents a significant personal step forward. I see therapy as a collaborative process to meet individuals where they are, so as to explore together what they want to get out of the therapeutic experience.
(385) 475-4395 View (385) 475-4395
Photo of Brenna Brooks, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brenna Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84107
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mind-Body Bridging (MBB), and Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method.
I feel great privilege anytime someone chooses to consult with me in exploring the problems they are facing. No matter the issue, I believe that you are the expert of your own life and I view therapy as a collaborative process that helps individuals make meaning of life's experiences. Therapy is more than just talking, it's healing our past so that we can find joy and purpose in today. I have experience working with people living with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, addiction, sexual issues, and faith transitions. I also have experience in working with military troops and their families. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mind-Body Bridging (MBB), and Solution Focused Therapy, Emotion Focused Therapy, and Gottman Method.
I feel great privilege anytime someone chooses to consult with me in exploring the problems they are facing. No matter the issue, I believe that you are the expert of your own life and I view therapy as a collaborative process that helps individuals make meaning of life's experiences. Therapy is more than just talking, it's healing our past so that we can find joy and purpose in today. I have experience working with people living with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, addiction, sexual issues, and faith transitions. I also have experience in working with military troops and their families. I am LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(385) 332-4794 View (385) 332-4794
Photo of Ehdaa Ameen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ehdaa Ameen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84124
Ehdaa is a passionate, and empathetic therapist with extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. Ehdaa is specialized in treating Depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, stress, relationship issues, addiction, adjustment issues, grief and losses. She uses evidence-based therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Solution focus, MI and Mindfulness to assist and guide her clients throughout their therapeutic journey to reach their treatment goals and feel content with their success.
Ehdaa is a passionate, and empathetic therapist with extensive experience working with individuals, couples, and groups. Ehdaa is specialized in treating Depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, stress, relationship issues, addiction, adjustment issues, grief and losses. She uses evidence-based therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Solution focus, MI and Mindfulness to assist and guide her clients throughout their therapeutic journey to reach their treatment goals and feel content with their success.
(385) 402-7803 View (385) 402-7803
Photo of Lizzie Bosen - Integrated Healers Collective, PhD, LCSW, LCMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Integrated Healers Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84117
We utilize cutting edge, integrated, evidenced-based therapies and a systems approach to treat the whole person, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, IFS, Jungian, KAP, mindful movement and more.
Hello there! We're the Integrated Healers! The I.H.C. was founded by Lizzie Bosen, LCSW Owner/Psychotherapist and Coach of Her Wellness Therapy in 2023. Our mission is to bring anti-oppressive, integrated, and affordable health care to those who seek it. We offer western and eastern approaches, plant medicines, and holistic practices to treat root issues. The collective meets ethical code, and best practice requirements per the NASW, and allows healers the support, clinical supervision/internships, and resources to thrive, which in turn help our clients to heal and thrive too.
We utilize cutting edge, integrated, evidenced-based therapies and a systems approach to treat the whole person, including EMDR, CBT, DBT, IFS, Jungian, KAP, mindful movement and more.
Hello there! We're the Integrated Healers! The I.H.C. was founded by Lizzie Bosen, LCSW Owner/Psychotherapist and Coach of Her Wellness Therapy in 2023. Our mission is to bring anti-oppressive, integrated, and affordable health care to those who seek it. We offer western and eastern approaches, plant medicines, and holistic practices to treat root issues. The collective meets ethical code, and best practice requirements per the NASW, and allows healers the support, clinical supervision/internships, and resources to thrive, which in turn help our clients to heal and thrive too.
(801) 783-4745 View (801) 783-4745
Photo of Roberto Lara, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roberto Lara
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84124
I am an Emdria EMDR Certified therapist and consultant in training.
I hope to establish a therapeutic team with you. I have experience helping clients experiencing the aftermath of unresolved adverse childhood experiences, post-traumatic stress, complex PTSD, intergenerational trauma, survivors of intimate partner violence, and other forms of abuse. I also work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, attachment ruptures, life transitions, family dynamics, inter and intrapersonal conflict, and ADHD. I am a native Spanish speaker and conduct therapy in English and Spanish. I also understand in-depth the different subcultures and the challenges between generations within the Latino community.
I am an Emdria EMDR Certified therapist and consultant in training.
I hope to establish a therapeutic team with you. I have experience helping clients experiencing the aftermath of unresolved adverse childhood experiences, post-traumatic stress, complex PTSD, intergenerational trauma, survivors of intimate partner violence, and other forms of abuse. I also work with clients struggling with anxiety, depression, attachment ruptures, life transitions, family dynamics, inter and intrapersonal conflict, and ADHD. I am a native Spanish speaker and conduct therapy in English and Spanish. I also understand in-depth the different subcultures and the challenges between generations within the Latino community.
(435) 422-4342 View (435) 422-4342
Photo of Stephanie Pearce, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Pearce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84107
I am also trained in EMDR, narrative therapy, DBT, Mind-Body Bridging, and CBT.
I feel a great honor working with people. I take time to understand you. I believe that the relationship between therapist and client can offer a unique and secure space for potential healing. I view therapy as a collaborative process that can help create meaning of people's lived experiences.
I am also trained in EMDR, narrative therapy, DBT, Mind-Body Bridging, and CBT.
I feel a great honor working with people. I take time to understand you. I believe that the relationship between therapist and client can offer a unique and secure space for potential healing. I view therapy as a collaborative process that can help create meaning of people's lived experiences.
View
Photo of Dray Salcido, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dray Salcido
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84117
I help people heal their nervous systems through the use of EMDR, IFS, Somatic Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga.
I believe each person is unique and deserves a special approach to therapy. My passion is to create a warm, person-centered approach where you can safely do the work to learn, heal and thrive. I seek to empower all who walk through my door. Here you'll find an empathetic listener, who can provide you with the tools of recovery. My approach is both kind and direct which helps the individual make changes in a self compassionate way.
I help people heal their nervous systems through the use of EMDR, IFS, Somatic Therapy, and Trauma-Informed Yoga.
I believe each person is unique and deserves a special approach to therapy. My passion is to create a warm, person-centered approach where you can safely do the work to learn, heal and thrive. I seek to empower all who walk through my door. Here you'll find an empathetic listener, who can provide you with the tools of recovery. My approach is both kind and direct which helps the individual make changes in a self compassionate way.
(385) 396-5569 View (385) 396-5569
Photo of Julia Wheatley, ACMHC, Counselor
Julia Wheatley
Counselor, ACMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84124
My goal as a therapist is to help you discover true connection within yourself and to others through deep exploration of your past experiences, and future hopes and desires. Together we can find the healing and change you may be looking for, and develop a strong sense of self through strength based approaches, mindfulness techniques, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Trained in a psychodynamic approach, we will explore the unconscious mind and help bring awareness to your thoughts and patterned behaviors. I also use modalities such as EMDR and Neurofeedback to help calm and stabilize clients and work through traumas.
My goal as a therapist is to help you discover true connection within yourself and to others through deep exploration of your past experiences, and future hopes and desires. Together we can find the healing and change you may be looking for, and develop a strong sense of self through strength based approaches, mindfulness techniques, and acceptance and commitment therapy. Trained in a psychodynamic approach, we will explore the unconscious mind and help bring awareness to your thoughts and patterned behaviors. I also use modalities such as EMDR and Neurofeedback to help calm and stabilize clients and work through traumas.
(385) 503-3360 View (385) 503-3360
Photo of Carrie Gaykowski, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carrie Gaykowski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Millcreek, UT 84107
Depending upon your needs and goals, I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and am trained in EMDR.
My practice is dedicated to providing a warm, non-judgmental, and supportive space for you to explore and express yourself in order to gain insight. I work with individuals struggling with the effects of trauma, C-PTSD, grief and loss, and life transitions, as well as anxiety and depression.
Depending upon your needs and goals, I utilize Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and am trained in EMDR.
My practice is dedicated to providing a warm, non-judgmental, and supportive space for you to explore and express yourself in order to gain insight. I work with individuals struggling with the effects of trauma, C-PTSD, grief and loss, and life transitions, as well as anxiety and depression.
(385) 475-5595 View (385) 475-5595
Photo of Lizzie Bosen - Her Wellness Therapy, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Her Wellness Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84117
We take a collaborative approach and utilize evidenced-based therapy's, such as CPT, EMDR and IFS to treat the whole person, and provide a safe space, and corrective relationship for you to heal in.
Hi there! Her Wellness Therapy specializes in treating identifying women experiencing PTSD, depressive, anxiety symptoms and more. Therapy can be very helpful if you're in need of general resources and support, and is essential if you're suffering from a mental health disorder. When we experience trauma, we in a sense stay frozen in time, and often form unhelpful beliefs which keep us stuck. The clinicians at Her Wellness are specifically trained to help you get unstuck and heal. We truly get it, and care.
We take a collaborative approach and utilize evidenced-based therapy's, such as CPT, EMDR and IFS to treat the whole person, and provide a safe space, and corrective relationship for you to heal in.
Hi there! Her Wellness Therapy specializes in treating identifying women experiencing PTSD, depressive, anxiety symptoms and more. Therapy can be very helpful if you're in need of general resources and support, and is essential if you're suffering from a mental health disorder. When we experience trauma, we in a sense stay frozen in time, and often form unhelpful beliefs which keep us stuck. The clinicians at Her Wellness are specifically trained to help you get unstuck and heal. We truly get it, and care.
(385) 336-0186 View (385) 336-0186
Photo of Betty Flores, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betty Flores
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84107
I utilize a strength-based approach with my clients, along with implementing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy).
The road to parenthood is not easy, despite societal expectations. Whether grappling with the nuances of perinatal mental health, including postpartum depression, infertility, or the heartache of a miscarriage or infant loss, I can offer a compassionate sanctuary. I believe in the importance of having a support system, and I am here to be part of your part of yours. Together, we will work towards finding balance, grounding, presence, and re-establishing your individual identity.
I utilize a strength-based approach with my clients, along with implementing EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing therapy).
The road to parenthood is not easy, despite societal expectations. Whether grappling with the nuances of perinatal mental health, including postpartum depression, infertility, or the heartache of a miscarriage or infant loss, I can offer a compassionate sanctuary. I believe in the importance of having a support system, and I am here to be part of your part of yours. Together, we will work towards finding balance, grounding, presence, and re-establishing your individual identity.
(385) 899-2433 View (385) 899-2433
Photo of Maddy Van Buskirk, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maddy Van Buskirk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84107
I am trained in ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Therapy), Narrative therapy, EMDR, CBT, and DBT).
I strive to create a safe therapeutic environment where we can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Many of my clients are navigating past traumas, mental health conditions, relationship challenges, and faith transitions. I love to help clients find a path forward when they are feeling stuck in shame, fear, rumination, etc. I try to adapt my approach to each individual I see, let's find what works for you!
I am trained in ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy), Therapy), Narrative therapy, EMDR, CBT, and DBT).
I strive to create a safe therapeutic environment where we can explore your thoughts and feelings without judgment. Many of my clients are navigating past traumas, mental health conditions, relationship challenges, and faith transitions. I love to help clients find a path forward when they are feeling stuck in shame, fear, rumination, etc. I try to adapt my approach to each individual I see, let's find what works for you!
(385) 442-9534 View (385) 442-9534
Photo of Samantha Carter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samantha Carter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84117
Beyond traditional talk therapy, I offer brainspotting and EMDR to identify and release core sources of emotional pain and trauma.
Are you a high-achiever? Do you struggle with perfectionism in your work, relationships, and self-image? Do you keep moving the bar higher and higher for yourself? I use an attachment lens to unpack the layers that make us who we are, the layers that have protected us in our childhoods, workplaces, and relationships. Together, we will look at who you are at your core and how you want to show up in the world. You have the ability to heal within you and feel at peace as you are.
Beyond traditional talk therapy, I offer brainspotting and EMDR to identify and release core sources of emotional pain and trauma.
Are you a high-achiever? Do you struggle with perfectionism in your work, relationships, and self-image? Do you keep moving the bar higher and higher for yourself? I use an attachment lens to unpack the layers that make us who we are, the layers that have protected us in our childhoods, workplaces, and relationships. Together, we will look at who you are at your core and how you want to show up in the world. You have the ability to heal within you and feel at peace as you are.
(801) 214-1152 View (801) 214-1152
Photo of Candice Christiansen, LCMHC, Counselor
Candice Christiansen
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84124
Waitlist for new clients
You deserve to heal! My team & I are seasoned clinicians & leaders in sexual, intimacy, & relationship recovery. As CSAT's, CMATs, EMDR experts, IFS trained & holistic practitioners, we provide you with a holistic approach to treating porn & out of control sexual behavior (eg, sex addiction), complex trauma, intimacy and attachment ruptures, adult Autism & ADHD & intimacy issues, betrayal trauma, sexual offending, & for partners of individuals who sexually offend. Our Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner/Coach Chris offers Neurofeedback and Neuro-Sensory Coaching to reduce stress, improve mood and concentration and more!
You deserve to heal! My team & I are seasoned clinicians & leaders in sexual, intimacy, & relationship recovery. As CSAT's, CMATs, EMDR experts, IFS trained & holistic practitioners, we provide you with a holistic approach to treating porn & out of control sexual behavior (eg, sex addiction), complex trauma, intimacy and attachment ruptures, adult Autism & ADHD & intimacy issues, betrayal trauma, sexual offending, & for partners of individuals who sexually offend. Our Board Certified Holistic Health Practitioner/Coach Chris offers Neurofeedback and Neuro-Sensory Coaching to reduce stress, improve mood and concentration and more!
(801) 921-6740 View (801) 921-6740
Photo of Melisa Araujo, CSW , Pre-Licensed Professional
Melisa Araujo
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84124
I use a psychodynamic approach and am trained in EMDR.
I am passionate about supporting individuals in figuring out how to get “unstuck”, navigate challenging relationships and life transitions, learn how to be present in both mind and body, and grow into the most authentic version of themselves. I believe that self-awareness and self-compassion can bring about accountability and change. My focuses include attachment styles, family dynamics, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, faith transitions, life transitions, intercultural and interfaith relationships, PTSD, and complex trauma.
I use a psychodynamic approach and am trained in EMDR.
I am passionate about supporting individuals in figuring out how to get “unstuck”, navigate challenging relationships and life transitions, learn how to be present in both mind and body, and grow into the most authentic version of themselves. I believe that self-awareness and self-compassion can bring about accountability and change. My focuses include attachment styles, family dynamics, relationship issues, anxiety, depression, faith transitions, life transitions, intercultural and interfaith relationships, PTSD, and complex trauma.
(385) 314-4764 View (385) 314-4764
Photo of Carina Nation, ACMHC
Carina Nation
ACMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Millcreek, UT 84117
(Accelerated Resolution Therapy) and I’m pursuing training in EMDR.
Now accepting Select Health, BCBS, and PEHP! I am working with Soma Psychotherapy and I am accepting new clients. I am Park City native who graduated from Liberty University with my Master’s Degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling. I have many ties to the LGBTQAI+ population in Utah and I’m passionate about holding a safe place for those individuals to learn and grow. I am fluent in Cued Speech and can communicate with the Deaf population, I wear a Cochlear Implant and have a passion for bridging the gap between the Deaf and hearing population when it comes to therapy.
(Accelerated Resolution Therapy) and I’m pursuing training in EMDR.
Now accepting Select Health, BCBS, and PEHP! I am working with Soma Psychotherapy and I am accepting new clients. I am Park City native who graduated from Liberty University with my Master’s Degree in Clinical and Mental Health Counseling. I have many ties to the LGBTQAI+ population in Utah and I’m passionate about holding a safe place for those individuals to learn and grow. I am fluent in Cued Speech and can communicate with the Deaf population, I wear a Cochlear Implant and have a passion for bridging the gap between the Deaf and hearing population when it comes to therapy.
(801) 877-1782 View (801) 877-1782
1
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.