EMDR Therapists in Murray, UT

Photo of Emilia Fryar, CSW-I, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilia Fryar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW-I
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84121
Emilia (Emi) Fryar is a CSW-I with LifeStance Health. She is originally from Portland, Oregon, but has lived in various states and countries. She completed her Bachelor's in Social Work in Hawai'i, minoring in Psychology and American Sign Language, and completed her Master's in Social Work from Boise State. Emi's majority of experience lies with youth, teens, and young adults. She enjoys working with those navigating educational, vocational, relationship, and faith crises and transitions. She is LGBTQIA+ affirmative. Emi incorporates CBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed practices such as EMDR in her care.
Emilia (Emi) Fryar is a CSW-I with LifeStance Health. She is originally from Portland, Oregon, but has lived in various states and countries. She completed her Bachelor's in Social Work in Hawai'i, minoring in Psychology and American Sign Language, and completed her Master's in Social Work from Boise State. Emi's majority of experience lies with youth, teens, and young adults. She enjoys working with those navigating educational, vocational, relationship, and faith crises and transitions. She is LGBTQIA+ affirmative. Emi incorporates CBT, mindfulness, and trauma-informed practices such as EMDR in her care.
(801) 893-9586 View (801) 893-9586
Photo of Julie Ann McCauley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Ann McCauley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84107
Our therapists are masters in their field with additional expertise in trauma and PTSD, military, police, and first responders, LGBTQ, addiction, refugees, in addition to techniques like EMDR and Neurofeedback.
Phoenix Rebellion Therapy treats those looking for solutions and new directions in life. Working together, our clients and therapists can find the root of the problem and a way to move forward. We support each other as a team. If you suffer from a minor issue or something more extreme, you could use an experienced ear walking you towards a better solution. Our therapists have expertise treating everything from trauma, torture, and rape, to anxiety, addiction, and depression. We team up with you and find what successfully works in reducing your symptoms and helping you progress in life.
Our therapists are masters in their field with additional expertise in trauma and PTSD, military, police, and first responders, LGBTQ, addiction, refugees, in addition to techniques like EMDR and Neurofeedback.
Phoenix Rebellion Therapy treats those looking for solutions and new directions in life. Working together, our clients and therapists can find the root of the problem and a way to move forward. We support each other as a team. If you suffer from a minor issue or something more extreme, you could use an experienced ear walking you towards a better solution. Our therapists have expertise treating everything from trauma, torture, and rape, to anxiety, addiction, and depression. We team up with you and find what successfully works in reducing your symptoms and helping you progress in life.
(385) 999-7380 x3 View (385) 999-7380 x3
Photo of Jacob E. Jacquez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacob E. Jacquez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84121
I am a strong advocate for social justice and mental health awareness and believe in the inherent worth of every person. I am passionate about helping others alleviate personal suffering and combatting pervasive systemic oppression that perpetuates suffering. My approach to therapy is person-centered, solution focused, trauma-informed, empowerment- and strengths-based. I integrate elements of humanistic, interpersonal, EMDR, and cognitive behavioral modalities.
I am a strong advocate for social justice and mental health awareness and believe in the inherent worth of every person. I am passionate about helping others alleviate personal suffering and combatting pervasive systemic oppression that perpetuates suffering. My approach to therapy is person-centered, solution focused, trauma-informed, empowerment- and strengths-based. I integrate elements of humanistic, interpersonal, EMDR, and cognitive behavioral modalities.
(801) 396-9827 View (801) 396-9827
Photo of Tysa Slade, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tysa Slade
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84121
I am a certified facilitator of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a renowned technique to support trauma healing.
I am motivated and compassionate about my work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I take a trauma informed approach when working with all my clients, and believe that everyone is capable, strong and worthy of living a happy and healthy life. I seek to empower my clients and help them build resilience through our sessions. I am specialized in the treatment of trauma related conditions as well as addiction recovery work. I also have experience in treating depression, anxiety, adolescent issues, marriage and family problems, relationship concerns, attachment and developmental concerns, and grief and loss.
I am a certified facilitator of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a renowned technique to support trauma healing.
I am motivated and compassionate about my work with adolescents, adults, couples and families. I take a trauma informed approach when working with all my clients, and believe that everyone is capable, strong and worthy of living a happy and healthy life. I seek to empower my clients and help them build resilience through our sessions. I am specialized in the treatment of trauma related conditions as well as addiction recovery work. I also have experience in treating depression, anxiety, adolescent issues, marriage and family problems, relationship concerns, attachment and developmental concerns, and grief and loss.
(385) 213-1874 View (385) 213-1874
Photo of Amy Claire Rudd, MSW, CCTP, EMDR, IFS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Claire Rudd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CCTP, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
I am an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) trained therapist, informed in Internal Family Systems (IFS), and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
I earned my Master's degree in Social Work, specializing in Clinical Practice, from the University of Kentucky. What propels my career in social work is an unwavering passion for helping others. I firmly believe in the transformative power of healing and find immense joy in providing support to individuals as they seek rehabilitation amid difficult circumstances. One of my core strengths lies in fostering genuine connections with others. I take immense pride in being authentic, reliable, and trustworthy, qualities that are reflected in all of my relationships.
I am an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) trained therapist, informed in Internal Family Systems (IFS), and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP).
I earned my Master's degree in Social Work, specializing in Clinical Practice, from the University of Kentucky. What propels my career in social work is an unwavering passion for helping others. I firmly believe in the transformative power of healing and find immense joy in providing support to individuals as they seek rehabilitation amid difficult circumstances. One of my core strengths lies in fostering genuine connections with others. I take immense pride in being authentic, reliable, and trustworthy, qualities that are reflected in all of my relationships.
(385) 458-8935 View (385) 458-8935
Photo of Jennifer C Young, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer C Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84107
She is EMDR trained and specializes in trauma work.
Jenn is passionate about and has experience working with adolescents, females who have experienced trauma, adults, and couples to create solutions to problems, learn healthy communication skills, and increase a sense of peace and harmony. Jenn received her master’s degree from the University of Utah and a Certificate of Applied Positive Psychology.
She is EMDR trained and specializes in trauma work.
Jenn is passionate about and has experience working with adolescents, females who have experienced trauma, adults, and couples to create solutions to problems, learn healthy communication skills, and increase a sense of peace and harmony. Jenn received her master’s degree from the University of Utah and a Certificate of Applied Positive Psychology.
(385) 438-4012 View (385) 438-4012
Photo of Elle Bateman Barton, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elle Bateman Barton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
I have certifications in PCIT, EMDR, TF-CBT, and DBT.
Hi, I’m Elle – a child and family therapist who specializes in treating trauma, building secure attachments, navigating family conflict, and managing everyday stressors. Our world is complicated, and it makes sense that your child and family might need a helping hand. Together we will learn skills, process feelings, and use evidence-based care as a way to manage anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, or other behavioral and mental health concerns.
I have certifications in PCIT, EMDR, TF-CBT, and DBT.
Hi, I’m Elle – a child and family therapist who specializes in treating trauma, building secure attachments, navigating family conflict, and managing everyday stressors. Our world is complicated, and it makes sense that your child and family might need a helping hand. Together we will learn skills, process feelings, and use evidence-based care as a way to manage anxiety, trauma, depression, ADHD, or other behavioral and mental health concerns.
(435) 252-0557 View (435) 252-0557
Photo of Alyssa Hewitson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Hewitson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107  (Online Only)
Alyssa’s tools: EMDR, CBT, DBT, Harm Reduction skills, Mindfulness, Self-compassion, walk + talk, animal assistance.
I believe each of us is on our own healing journey, unique to each and every one of us. I work with individuals 18 + who struggle with understanding their trauma, substance use patterns, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and life changes, taking a Harm Reduction approach to help you better understand yourself. We’ll work collaboratively to find an approach that will help you find your inner peace. My trained therapy dog, Bindi, may join us for our sessions to help us in your therapeutic process.
Alyssa’s tools: EMDR, CBT, DBT, Harm Reduction skills, Mindfulness, Self-compassion, walk + talk, animal assistance.
I believe each of us is on our own healing journey, unique to each and every one of us. I work with individuals 18 + who struggle with understanding their trauma, substance use patterns, eating disorders, anxiety, depression, and life changes, taking a Harm Reduction approach to help you better understand yourself. We’ll work collaboratively to find an approach that will help you find your inner peace. My trained therapy dog, Bindi, may join us for our sessions to help us in your therapeutic process.
(801) 509-6845 View (801) 509-6845
Photo of Jaime Bringhurst, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaime Bringhurst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
I am trained in EMDR to facilitate you powerfully moving through your trauma.
The human spirit is resilient! The past does not need to dictate your future. I take a client centered approach at meeting your goals! Wether you are healing through a past traumatic experience or are just tired of feeling down or without direction, I look forward to partnering with you on your individualized healing journey.
I am trained in EMDR to facilitate you powerfully moving through your trauma.
The human spirit is resilient! The past does not need to dictate your future. I take a client centered approach at meeting your goals! Wether you are healing through a past traumatic experience or are just tired of feeling down or without direction, I look forward to partnering with you on your individualized healing journey.
(385) 304-3575 View (385) 304-3575
Photo of Jamie Heckert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Heckert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84107
Waitlist for new clients
My favorite modalities to use in the therapy room are EMDR, IFS, and CBT.
Have you heard that you have great insight or self awareness, but have yet to experience any real change in therapy? My ideal client is ready to try something new. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for adults and adolescents to explore their diverse identities while moving and healing through past traumas. I approach all clients through a multi-cultural, gender-sensitive lens while also acknowledging the impact that systemic oppression has on an Individual's mental health and well-being.
My favorite modalities to use in the therapy room are EMDR, IFS, and CBT.
Have you heard that you have great insight or self awareness, but have yet to experience any real change in therapy? My ideal client is ready to try something new. I provide a safe, non-judgmental space for adults and adolescents to explore their diverse identities while moving and healing through past traumas. I approach all clients through a multi-cultural, gender-sensitive lens while also acknowledging the impact that systemic oppression has on an Individual's mental health and well-being.
(385) 993-3478 View (385) 993-3478
Photo of Shannalee Otanez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannalee Otanez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84123
I am EMDR trained and often use CBT, DBT, and expressive art therapy like music, writing, art, and digital media as modalities for expression in sessions.
Hey! I’m Shannalee and I specialize in therapy for teens, young adults, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. I have fifteen years of experience working with kids and young adults and really enjoy seeing their growth and development as they move towards independence. I approach therapy with curiosity and hope. Clients I work with are looking for ways to combat their anxiety and depression related to school, college, relationships, and trauma. We work together to reduce their distressing symptoms through skill building and they feel like they can move forward with a more hopeful future.
I am EMDR trained and often use CBT, DBT, and expressive art therapy like music, writing, art, and digital media as modalities for expression in sessions.
Hey! I’m Shannalee and I specialize in therapy for teens, young adults, and families struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harm, and suicidal ideation. I have fifteen years of experience working with kids and young adults and really enjoy seeing their growth and development as they move towards independence. I approach therapy with curiosity and hope. Clients I work with are looking for ways to combat their anxiety and depression related to school, college, relationships, and trauma. We work together to reduce their distressing symptoms through skill building and they feel like they can move forward with a more hopeful future.
(385) 475-5295 View (385) 475-5295
Photo of Tracie Stevens, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracie Stevens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84121
I offer EMDR, trauma therapy.
I work with individuals who are seeking the awareness and empowerment to live a life authentically rooted. I want to help you to find a way to be vulnerable and discover the roots in what drives current distress. Many of my clients express having the experience of feeling safe to understand and process trauma, faith transitions, fertility issues, grief, and relational difficulties. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and am honored to walk alongside your journey. I have strength and confidence in individuals to provide their own healing. I provide the space to explore emotion and enhance your coping strategies.
I offer EMDR, trauma therapy.
I work with individuals who are seeking the awareness and empowerment to live a life authentically rooted. I want to help you to find a way to be vulnerable and discover the roots in what drives current distress. Many of my clients express having the experience of feeling safe to understand and process trauma, faith transitions, fertility issues, grief, and relational difficulties. I am an LGBTQIA+ affirming therapist and am honored to walk alongside your journey. I have strength and confidence in individuals to provide their own healing. I provide the space to explore emotion and enhance your coping strategies.
(435) 265-3493 View (435) 265-3493
Photo of Jill Jensen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Jensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR trained.
My number one intention as your therapist is to help you have a new experience in therapy and in life. I cultivate a space that allows you to approach experiences that you may be avoiding due to fear, the unknown, or a difficult past experience with curiosity, confidence, and compassion. I believe that in doing so, you can receive new insights about your abilities, what you can tolerate, and how you view yourself and others in the world. My approach is dialectic as it is focused on compassion, flexibility, as well as accountability for therapy success inside and outside of session.
I am EMDR trained.
My number one intention as your therapist is to help you have a new experience in therapy and in life. I cultivate a space that allows you to approach experiences that you may be avoiding due to fear, the unknown, or a difficult past experience with curiosity, confidence, and compassion. I believe that in doing so, you can receive new insights about your abilities, what you can tolerate, and how you view yourself and others in the world. My approach is dialectic as it is focused on compassion, flexibility, as well as accountability for therapy success inside and outside of session.
(385) 247-3264 View (385) 247-3264
Photo of Heather Draughan, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Draughan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
“Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” -Brené Brown. Seeking help is a humbling and courageous step. I admire the courage it takes to begin this journey and am humbled when either children or adults open their hearts and allow me to support them. I am passionate about helping those who have had traumatic experiences and want to heal. I utilize various therapy techniques in the healing process and have specialized training in Play Therapy, Sandtray, and EMDR. Additionally, I work with families creating unity where there has once been division.
“Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” -Brené Brown. Seeking help is a humbling and courageous step. I admire the courage it takes to begin this journey and am humbled when either children or adults open their hearts and allow me to support them. I am passionate about helping those who have had traumatic experiences and want to heal. I utilize various therapy techniques in the healing process and have specialized training in Play Therapy, Sandtray, and EMDR. Additionally, I work with families creating unity where there has once been division.
(385) 217-5686 View (385) 217-5686
Photo of Jessica Judd, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Judd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84107
I use EMDR and other methods to process uncomfortable emotions and traumatic experiences, and work with each person to understand the way they think, build coping skills that work naturally, and set goals that are simple but effective.
Therapy should be a comfortable experience where you feel safe and accepted as you are. It isn’t always easy to share your feelings or experiences, and you deserve an environment where you feel you can speak freely and honestly. I work with adults and teenagers experiencing a variety of issues, including: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, childhood trauma, self-harming behaviors, relationship difficulty, family dynamics, substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ support, and many more. I want every client to gain more understanding of themselves. A more complete understanding of yourself comes with a more complete understanding of how to cope.
I use EMDR and other methods to process uncomfortable emotions and traumatic experiences, and work with each person to understand the way they think, build coping skills that work naturally, and set goals that are simple but effective.
Therapy should be a comfortable experience where you feel safe and accepted as you are. It isn’t always easy to share your feelings or experiences, and you deserve an environment where you feel you can speak freely and honestly. I work with adults and teenagers experiencing a variety of issues, including: depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, childhood trauma, self-harming behaviors, relationship difficulty, family dynamics, substance abuse, LGBTQIA+ support, and many more. I want every client to gain more understanding of themselves. A more complete understanding of yourself comes with a more complete understanding of how to cope.
(385) 398-9497 View (385) 398-9497
Photo of Tj Grow - Holistic Elements, LCMHC, MP, Counselor
Holistic Elements
Counselor, LCMHC, MP
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84107
I am trained in EMDR and versatile in several other therapeutic approaches such as: Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, My name is TJ Grow. I am trained in the "Best-Practice" and "Evidence-Based" trauma modality, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. I enjoy treating people with PTSD, Mood Disorders, Relational Problems and much more. It is my goal to educate and equip all my clients with tools that will empower them to improve their mental health. I use traditional therapeutic techniques like :CBT, EMDR, Client-Centered, etc. but I also intertwine holistic approaches like: yoga, mineral oils, diet, exercise, meditation, etc. I look forward to meeting you and helping you through your path to peace, happiness and health.
I am trained in EMDR and versatile in several other therapeutic approaches such as: Cognitive Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, My name is TJ Grow. I am trained in the "Best-Practice" and "Evidence-Based" trauma modality, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing. I enjoy treating people with PTSD, Mood Disorders, Relational Problems and much more. It is my goal to educate and equip all my clients with tools that will empower them to improve their mental health. I use traditional therapeutic techniques like :CBT, EMDR, Client-Centered, etc. but I also intertwine holistic approaches like: yoga, mineral oils, diet, exercise, meditation, etc. I look forward to meeting you and helping you through your path to peace, happiness and health.
(801) 784-3047 View (801) 784-3047
Photo of Kimberly (Kym) Ann Reade, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Kimberly (Kym) Ann Reade
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84107
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy trauma-informed care, Somatic Experiencng, EMDR, brief solution-focused techniques, mindfulness and grounding skills.
Hey there! I'm a licensed clinical mental health therapist with many years of experience. My passion lies in helping individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, substance abuse and trauma, among other conflicts, challenges and life events. I believe in utilizing a variety of approaches to tailor treatment and growth to each person's unique needs. From cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma informed care approaches, brief solution focused techniques to mindfulness and grounding skills, I'm always exploring new ways to support my clients on their journey toward healing and positive change!
I use a variety of therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy trauma-informed care, Somatic Experiencng, EMDR, brief solution-focused techniques, mindfulness and grounding skills.
Hey there! I'm a licensed clinical mental health therapist with many years of experience. My passion lies in helping individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, relationship issues, substance abuse and trauma, among other conflicts, challenges and life events. I believe in utilizing a variety of approaches to tailor treatment and growth to each person's unique needs. From cognitive-behavioral therapy, trauma informed care approaches, brief solution focused techniques to mindfulness and grounding skills, I'm always exploring new ways to support my clients on their journey toward healing and positive change!
(385) 257-3741 View (385) 257-3741
Photo of Kathryn Rohbock, LCMHC, Counselor
Kathryn Rohbock
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Murray, UT 84123
I have also been trained in EMDR which is a powerful way to help people work through traumatic past events.
I specialize in Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, and Couples Counseling. I don’t believe there is one way to treat everyone…which is why using creativity and tailoring the process to exactly what you need is important.  Most therapists tend to fall back on techniques to try to help their clients manage their problems.  My approach is very different.  My approach is all about treating the root cause of anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma.  If you want to get rid of a weed you don’t just want to trim the top, you want to pull it out by the roots.  
I have also been trained in EMDR which is a powerful way to help people work through traumatic past events.
I specialize in Trauma/PTSD, Anxiety, Depression, Addiction, and Couples Counseling. I don’t believe there is one way to treat everyone…which is why using creativity and tailoring the process to exactly what you need is important.  Most therapists tend to fall back on techniques to try to help their clients manage their problems.  My approach is very different.  My approach is all about treating the root cause of anxiety, depression, addiction, and trauma.  If you want to get rid of a weed you don’t just want to trim the top, you want to pull it out by the roots.  
(385) 474-4841 View (385) 474-4841
Photo of Tavish Hubbard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tavish Hubbard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84107
I use a variety of techniques proven to help you heal your brain, such as EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
Life is overwhelming sometimes. Often, we don't know what is wrong and we just know things aren't the way we want them. We want to enjoy the present moment fully. We want to be able to think about the past without crawling into a hole. We want to be able to think about the future without panic. We want healthy, deep connections to those we love. But when we are in the darkness, it feels impossible to find the way out! The truth is we aren't supposed to have all the answers ourselves.
I use a variety of techniques proven to help you heal your brain, such as EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
Life is overwhelming sometimes. Often, we don't know what is wrong and we just know things aren't the way we want them. We want to enjoy the present moment fully. We want to be able to think about the past without crawling into a hole. We want to be able to think about the future without panic. We want healthy, deep connections to those we love. But when we are in the darkness, it feels impossible to find the way out! The truth is we aren't supposed to have all the answers ourselves.
(385) 422-8534 View (385) 422-8534
Photo of Nate Watkins, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nate Watkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Murray, UT 84121
I also offered Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to process anxiety and trauma.
I help families find joy in navigating school, raising children and forming healthy relationships. I work with all ages starting at 4+. I work with the whole family system and provide the support that is needed in the family system.
I also offered Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to process anxiety and trauma.
I help families find joy in navigating school, raising children and forming healthy relationships. I work with all ages starting at 4+. I work with the whole family system and provide the support that is needed in the family system.
(385) 993-4858 View (385) 993-4858
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.