EMDR Therapists in Riverdale, UT

Photo of Nikki Lee - Nikki Lee / Lunar Counseling Utah, MS, CCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Nikki Lee / Lunar Counseling Utah
Counselor, MS, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Riverdale, UT 84405
Using Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and other therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help support my clients in working towards meeting their own goals.
I am a trauma informed therapist specializing in treatment for PTSD and other trauma related issues. I specialize in first responder treatment, faith transitions, anxiety, depression, life changes, and pregnancy/postpartum struggles. I enjoy helping my clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves as they learn to honor their energy and thresholds. I also love guiding my clients into identifying what their root cause(s) is/are for their current struggles. I am direct in my therapeutic approach. I welcome discomfort during the healing process as it coincides with growth and change.
Using Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and other therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I help support my clients in working towards meeting their own goals.
I am a trauma informed therapist specializing in treatment for PTSD and other trauma related issues. I specialize in first responder treatment, faith transitions, anxiety, depression, life changes, and pregnancy/postpartum struggles. I enjoy helping my clients develop a deeper understanding of themselves as they learn to honor their energy and thresholds. I also love guiding my clients into identifying what their root cause(s) is/are for their current struggles. I am direct in my therapeutic approach. I welcome discomfort during the healing process as it coincides with growth and change.
(385) 318-3922 View (385) 318-3922
Photo of Alissa Swenson, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alissa Swenson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Riverdale, UT 84405
I am a trauma informed therapist integrating talk therapy, EMDR, IFS/Parts work, DBT, CBT, structural dissociative model, and MI.
Life is full of unexpected challenges and trauma: small, big, some temporary and some life long. Through this we often learn to stop listening to our inner voice, stop getting our needs met, and start listening to negative core beliefs. This often results in: consistent cycles of suffering, anxiety, depression, daily functioning, and relationship difficulties. Together I will help you work through these negative core beliefs, find your true-self, and develop coping skills to heal through all of the trauma and break the cycles. I will help you learn to listen to your own inner voice and find power to make change for growth.
I am a trauma informed therapist integrating talk therapy, EMDR, IFS/Parts work, DBT, CBT, structural dissociative model, and MI.
Life is full of unexpected challenges and trauma: small, big, some temporary and some life long. Through this we often learn to stop listening to our inner voice, stop getting our needs met, and start listening to negative core beliefs. This often results in: consistent cycles of suffering, anxiety, depression, daily functioning, and relationship difficulties. Together I will help you work through these negative core beliefs, find your true-self, and develop coping skills to heal through all of the trauma and break the cycles. I will help you learn to listen to your own inner voice and find power to make change for growth.
(385) 469-1212 View (385) 469-1212
Photo of Jennifer Corbett, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Jennifer Corbett
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
Riverdale, UT 84405
Some of the modalities that I use include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Talk Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray and/or a mixture of modalities to help you live the best life possible.
Currently accepting new clients. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I have just left the teaching profession where I was a teacher at a school that specializes in helping students who are neurodivergent become their best selves. While working with this population I found a passion for helping those that might need extra help navigating strong and confusing emotions, are neurodivergent, have disabilities of any kind and their families with their mental health journey. This could include trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and other issues that can impact a person’s mental and emotional health.
Some of the modalities that I use include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Talk Therapy, Play Therapy, Sand Tray and/or a mixture of modalities to help you live the best life possible.
Currently accepting new clients. I work with children, teens, adults, couples, and families. I have just left the teaching profession where I was a teacher at a school that specializes in helping students who are neurodivergent become their best selves. While working with this population I found a passion for helping those that might need extra help navigating strong and confusing emotions, are neurodivergent, have disabilities of any kind and their families with their mental health journey. This could include trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues and other issues that can impact a person’s mental and emotional health.
(385) 481-6289 View (385) 481-6289
Photo of Tori Vance, LCSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tori Vance
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Riverdale, UT 84405  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, TF-CBT, and solution focused brief therapy.
Online Telehealth Therapy... I enjoy various approaches to mental health and self-care. I enjoy many pints of ice-cream, bath bombs, a good book, spending time outside, and working out. Most importantly I believe we owe it ourselves, to make sure we are being taken care of and nourished, too, through our own mental health care. My approach to treatment is tailored to fit each person’s specific goals and needs, and I provide a comfortable and safe space for people to express themselves and work through their therapeutic experience.
I utilize EMDR, TF-CBT, and solution focused brief therapy.
Online Telehealth Therapy... I enjoy various approaches to mental health and self-care. I enjoy many pints of ice-cream, bath bombs, a good book, spending time outside, and working out. Most importantly I believe we owe it ourselves, to make sure we are being taken care of and nourished, too, through our own mental health care. My approach to treatment is tailored to fit each person’s specific goals and needs, and I provide a comfortable and safe space for people to express themselves and work through their therapeutic experience.
(385) 308-5434 View (385) 308-5434
Photo of Tyson Smith, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tyson Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Riverdale, UT 84405  (Online Only)
I work with a wide variety of individuals and couples. The clients I work with have diverse backgrounds and often struggle with relationship dynamics, anxiety, depression, grief and trauma. I prioritize establishing safety and security in working with my clients so that the therapy environment is one that allows for exploring and overcoming. I utilize action-oriented approaches and this includes strategies that focus on acceptance and mindfulness as well as commitment and behavioral change. My hope is that my clients will learn to be free enough to make their lives more meaningful and whole. The best way to contact me is by EMAIL.
I work with a wide variety of individuals and couples. The clients I work with have diverse backgrounds and often struggle with relationship dynamics, anxiety, depression, grief and trauma. I prioritize establishing safety and security in working with my clients so that the therapy environment is one that allows for exploring and overcoming. I utilize action-oriented approaches and this includes strategies that focus on acceptance and mindfulness as well as commitment and behavioral change. My hope is that my clients will learn to be free enough to make their lives more meaningful and whole. The best way to contact me is by EMAIL.
(385) 334-5156 View (385) 334-5156

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Brett Blanchard, LCMHC, Counselor
Brett Blanchard
Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Roy, UT 84067
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) 290-4577 View (385) 290-4577
Photo of Lindsey Jordan, CSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lindsey Jordan
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84405
I hold a firm belief in the immeasurable value and dignity of each and every individual. My mission is to support and uplift individuals who have gone through trauma or other challenging life experiences and provide them with the encouragement and guidance to reclaim their inner strength and power. I strongly advocate for the empowerment of others through a strengths-based approach, which involves recognizing and emphasizing each individual's unique strengths. I have received training in EMDR and I enjoy working with those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and post-traumatic stress.
I hold a firm belief in the immeasurable value and dignity of each and every individual. My mission is to support and uplift individuals who have gone through trauma or other challenging life experiences and provide them with the encouragement and guidance to reclaim their inner strength and power. I strongly advocate for the empowerment of others through a strengths-based approach, which involves recognizing and emphasizing each individual's unique strengths. I have received training in EMDR and I enjoy working with those who are experiencing anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, and post-traumatic stress.
(385) 406-2751 View (385) 406-2751
Photo of Amelia Hopkin, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amelia Hopkin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Ogden, UT 84403
Using methods like CBT, EMDR, Strength Based, Trauma Focused & Narrative therapies you can shed shame, guilt & false beliefs.
Need someone to listen in a judgement free zone? Wish you could make changes or feel better but don't know where to start? You're not alone, counseling is a healthy, natural way to help & heal from trauma & troubling feelings that come with unexpected life events. For 14 years I have worked with those who experienced loss of a child, their ideal family, faced unexpected disappointments, traumatic challenges, crippling anxiety, depression & loneliness. My practice is aimed at partnering with you to meet your fundamental need for healthy connections while learning to avoid unhealthy patterns that reinforce hurt & hopelessness.
Using methods like CBT, EMDR, Strength Based, Trauma Focused & Narrative therapies you can shed shame, guilt & false beliefs.
Need someone to listen in a judgement free zone? Wish you could make changes or feel better but don't know where to start? You're not alone, counseling is a healthy, natural way to help & heal from trauma & troubling feelings that come with unexpected life events. For 14 years I have worked with those who experienced loss of a child, their ideal family, faced unexpected disappointments, traumatic challenges, crippling anxiety, depression & loneliness. My practice is aimed at partnering with you to meet your fundamental need for healthy connections while learning to avoid unhealthy patterns that reinforce hurt & hopelessness.
(385) 217-5182 View (385) 217-5182
Photo of Emilie Barragan, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emilie Barragan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84405
I have experience in mental and behavioral health, EMDR therapy, addiction treatment, individual and family therapy, and group therapy.
Welcome and thank you for taking this first step to getting help in whatever area you are looking for. Whether you are experiencing addiction, mental health, trauma, relationship and family issues, I believe in using the approach that best fits each individual. I am passionate about helping individuals meet their goals and challenge your way of thinking that may be leaving you feeling stuck and help you learn new ways to meet your needs and goals.
I have experience in mental and behavioral health, EMDR therapy, addiction treatment, individual and family therapy, and group therapy.
Welcome and thank you for taking this first step to getting help in whatever area you are looking for. Whether you are experiencing addiction, mental health, trauma, relationship and family issues, I believe in using the approach that best fits each individual. I am passionate about helping individuals meet their goals and challenge your way of thinking that may be leaving you feeling stuck and help you learn new ways to meet your needs and goals.
(385) 376-1603 View (385) 376-1603
Photo of Taylor Welty, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Welty
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Ogden, UT 84403
I use evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR with my clients.
When we fall short of the successful lives we imagine it is often because we lack in a skill set or have something specific holding us back. Fortunately, we humans are adaptable! We have the ability to change our thinking, feelings, and behaviors, and develop new skills and tools that can help us be successful in life. As an EMDR therapist I strive to connect genuinely with my clients in order for therapy to be a safe space for change to take place. I prioritize meeting my clients where they are at while still empowering them to grow. I am empathetic while being direct.
I use evidence-based practices such as CBT, DBT, and EMDR with my clients.
When we fall short of the successful lives we imagine it is often because we lack in a skill set or have something specific holding us back. Fortunately, we humans are adaptable! We have the ability to change our thinking, feelings, and behaviors, and develop new skills and tools that can help us be successful in life. As an EMDR therapist I strive to connect genuinely with my clients in order for therapy to be a safe space for change to take place. I prioritize meeting my clients where they are at while still empowering them to grow. I am empathetic while being direct.
(801) 383-0679 View (801) 383-0679
Photo of Chandra Dorsett, Chandra Dorsett, MS, CMHC, Counselor
Chandra Dorsett
Counselor, Chandra Dorsett, MS, CMHC
Verified Verified
Washington Terrace, UT 84405
I employ a diverse range of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet everyone’s specific needs, including EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
I am truly passionate about personal growth and helping others achieve their goals. At times, we all require assistance and encouragement. Seeking help is no small task – as it requires courage and resilience to seek support when needed. My practice encompasses individuals from various backgrounds facing a range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism (Spectrum Disorder), ADHD, trauma, and substance use.
I employ a diverse range of therapeutic approaches tailored to meet everyone’s specific needs, including EMDR, CBT, and DBT.
I am truly passionate about personal growth and helping others achieve their goals. At times, we all require assistance and encouragement. Seeking help is no small task – as it requires courage and resilience to seek support when needed. My practice encompasses individuals from various backgrounds facing a range of challenges such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, autism (Spectrum Disorder), ADHD, trauma, and substance use.
(385) 644-9454 View (385) 644-9454
Photo of Liz Geldmacher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Geldmacher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Weber, UT 84403
Do you feel like stress and worry are weighing you down? With over 10 years of experience, I can offer a fresh perspective to help you navigate these challenges. I am trained in EMDR, ERP and CBT. I provide a therapy approach that is direct, compassionate, and straightforward. My goal is to provide a safe space where you feel heard and supported as you work towards meaningful change and a better life. Let's get started on your new life vision!
Do you feel like stress and worry are weighing you down? With over 10 years of experience, I can offer a fresh perspective to help you navigate these challenges. I am trained in EMDR, ERP and CBT. I provide a therapy approach that is direct, compassionate, and straightforward. My goal is to provide a safe space where you feel heard and supported as you work towards meaningful change and a better life. Let's get started on your new life vision!
(801) 751-7367 View (801) 751-7367
Photo of Jerry Berndt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jerry Berndt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84405
Brainspotting( EMDR) which is difficult to explain, although most people report as the most profound healing.
Jerry grew up in Northern South Dakota watching the Missouri River flow by. He joined a federal wildland fire crew and worked on municipal ambulances. He has since lived in five states and now calls Ogden home. "I have found great healing in embodiment work." Using movement based healing reconnects us with our intuition and unlocks trauma stored in our body. “As a therapist I am not afraid to walk through the hell of your wounds of fear, shame, and guilt because underneath all this there is an amazing authentic, wise, self.” Many of us swim in anxiety, the real confusion often comes in when you feel calmness for the first time.
Brainspotting( EMDR) which is difficult to explain, although most people report as the most profound healing.
Jerry grew up in Northern South Dakota watching the Missouri River flow by. He joined a federal wildland fire crew and worked on municipal ambulances. He has since lived in five states and now calls Ogden home. "I have found great healing in embodiment work." Using movement based healing reconnects us with our intuition and unlocks trauma stored in our body. “As a therapist I am not afraid to walk through the hell of your wounds of fear, shame, and guilt because underneath all this there is an amazing authentic, wise, self.” Many of us swim in anxiety, the real confusion often comes in when you feel calmness for the first time.
(385) 432-8962 View (385) 432-8962
Photo of Kristen Draskovic, RD, RN, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Draskovic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, RD, RN, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84403
I can help with EMDR as a way to help you process through hard life moments into a more positive outlook.
Are you exhausted from working so hard to feel better and like you're stuck? Have you experienced something really impactful that you want to process to create meaning and well-being? Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner and wanting to find new ways to connect and heal past hurts? Relationships can be a place of our biggest wounds and also a source of our greatest healing. Maybe you're a new parent who is feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious. Or are you struggling in your relationship to food and your body? You deserve to have the full life you desire.
I can help with EMDR as a way to help you process through hard life moments into a more positive outlook.
Are you exhausted from working so hard to feel better and like you're stuck? Have you experienced something really impactful that you want to process to create meaning and well-being? Are you struggling in your relationship with your partner and wanting to find new ways to connect and heal past hurts? Relationships can be a place of our biggest wounds and also a source of our greatest healing. Maybe you're a new parent who is feeling overwhelmed, exhausted and anxious. Or are you struggling in your relationship to food and your body? You deserve to have the full life you desire.
(385) 219-4422 View (385) 219-4422
Photo of Natalie Sill, MSW-i, Pre-Licensed Professional
Natalie Sill
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW-i
Verified Verified
South Ogden, UT 84403
I am trained in EMDR and Crisis Intervention.
I focus on helping you realize your own strengths and empower you to successfully manage your challenges. Finding the right solutions will help you find the peace and happiness you are searching for in your life.
I am trained in EMDR and Crisis Intervention.
I focus on helping you realize your own strengths and empower you to successfully manage your challenges. Finding the right solutions will help you find the peace and happiness you are searching for in your life.
(385) 213-1578 View (385) 213-1578
Photo of Brandon Nielsen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brandon Nielsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84403
I have been trained in and use DBT, CBT, and EMDR to help people change their lives.
Looking for a therapist to help you or your teen to manage ADHD, intense emotions, or behavioral problems? I have spent the last 10 years specializing in treating clients with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, ADHD and trauma. I have expertise in working with teens struggling with self-harm and suicidal thoughts. I like to use humor and a more relaxed style of engagement to help people feel at ease while approaching difficult topics and taking the steps to change.
I have been trained in and use DBT, CBT, and EMDR to help people change their lives.
Looking for a therapist to help you or your teen to manage ADHD, intense emotions, or behavioral problems? I have spent the last 10 years specializing in treating clients with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, ADHD and trauma. I have expertise in working with teens struggling with self-harm and suicidal thoughts. I like to use humor and a more relaxed style of engagement to help people feel at ease while approaching difficult topics and taking the steps to change.
(385) 270-8137 View (385) 270-8137
Photo of Madison Goodsell, CSW
Madison Goodsell
Social Worker, CSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84403
I am currently trained in EMDR and am approaching certification.
I have immediate openings for new clients on Friday mornings. I find therapy to be a very fulfilling job. I believe every individual out there has something to share and learn from. I find it a great honor to be a part of my clients’ lives and be entrusted with what they are willing to share. I believe that therapy is an alliance between the therapist and the client and a coequal relationship. I strive to find the best evidence-based practice that fits the client’s goals.
I am currently trained in EMDR and am approaching certification.
I have immediate openings for new clients on Friday mornings. I find therapy to be a very fulfilling job. I believe every individual out there has something to share and learn from. I find it a great honor to be a part of my clients’ lives and be entrusted with what they are willing to share. I believe that therapy is an alliance between the therapist and the client and a coequal relationship. I strive to find the best evidence-based practice that fits the client’s goals.
(385) 332-8382 View (385) 332-8382
Photo of Xou Yang, CMHC
Xou Yang
Mental Health Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84409  (Online Only)
I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) along with other evidence-based practices to help people develop tools and strategies to decrease symptoms related to anxiety, trauma and addiction.
I've heard of people reaching out for help, but they've had to wait on a waitlist for months. I will return your inquiries within 24 hours and we can setup our first meeting within one (1) week. However, I only see people via telehealth, and I don't take any insurances. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, infidelity and trust issues, men's issues, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and any other issues of concern can be shared without fear of judgment.
I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Rational Emotive Behavioral Therapy (REBT) along with other evidence-based practices to help people develop tools and strategies to decrease symptoms related to anxiety, trauma and addiction.
I've heard of people reaching out for help, but they've had to wait on a waitlist for months. I will return your inquiries within 24 hours and we can setup our first meeting within one (1) week. However, I only see people via telehealth, and I don't take any insurances. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, infidelity and trust issues, men's issues, coping with addictions, relationship issues, & trauma and abuse. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts, feelings, and any other issues of concern can be shared without fear of judgment.
(385) 644-1780 View (385) 644-1780
Photo of Trudi R Perkins, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trudi R Perkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
South Ogden, UT 84403
EMDR can help process traumatic memories, while DBT provides practical skills to manage emotions and improve relationships.
Reclaiming your strength and resilience after experiencing trauma is a vital step toward healing. If you're feeling exhausted from anxiety and depression, and finding it difficult to practice self-compassion, I am here to support you. Using evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, DBT, and behavioral interventions, we will work together to unravel the layers of pain and unlock your inner potential. I will be by your side on this journey toward healing and growth. Together, we will navigate the path to reclaiming your inner strength and rediscovering your sense of self.
EMDR can help process traumatic memories, while DBT provides practical skills to manage emotions and improve relationships.
Reclaiming your strength and resilience after experiencing trauma is a vital step toward healing. If you're feeling exhausted from anxiety and depression, and finding it difficult to practice self-compassion, I am here to support you. Using evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, DBT, and behavioral interventions, we will work together to unravel the layers of pain and unlock your inner potential. I will be by your side on this journey toward healing and growth. Together, we will navigate the path to reclaiming your inner strength and rediscovering your sense of self.
(385) 323-3694 View (385) 323-3694
Photo of Alan W. Brooks, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alan W. Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84403
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love helping couples enrich their relationships and ignite the spark. I specialize in addiction, including porn addiction. I am certified in EMDR, a trauma therapy modality. I also work with adults struggling with anxiety and depression.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I love helping couples enrich their relationships and ignite the spark. I specialize in addiction, including porn addiction. I am certified in EMDR, a trauma therapy modality. I also work with adults struggling with anxiety and depression.
(801) 829-9169 View (801) 829-9169

See more therapy options for Riverdale

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.