EMDR Therapists in West Haven, UT

Photo of Jennie Houtz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennie Houtz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West Haven, UT 84401  (Online Only)
My approach is influenced by IFS, ACT, and EMDR.
You've been pushing along for so long, just trying to get by. Struggling with managing your emotions, you find yourself withdrawing, having less patience for those you are closest to. Perhaps being intimate and close with your partner feels impossible, or is painful and unfulfilling. You've noticed yourself questioning if those difficult experiences you thought you had dealt with are actually impacting you. What you are feeling is valid and deserves a space to be heard and healed. Each person's path to wholeness is unique. Let's help you heal, feel more connected, and find the peace you deserve.
My approach is influenced by IFS, ACT, and EMDR.
You've been pushing along for so long, just trying to get by. Struggling with managing your emotions, you find yourself withdrawing, having less patience for those you are closest to. Perhaps being intimate and close with your partner feels impossible, or is painful and unfulfilling. You've noticed yourself questioning if those difficult experiences you thought you had dealt with are actually impacting you. What you are feeling is valid and deserves a space to be heard and healed. Each person's path to wholeness is unique. Let's help you heal, feel more connected, and find the peace you deserve.
(801) 590-0870 View (801) 590-0870
Photo of Debra Payne, PhD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Payne
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Haven, UT 84401
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist.
My clients want to face what is getting in the way of their living happier, more fulfilled lives. They want to talk about their struggles and then create a plan to move on so they can be at peace with themselves and others.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist.
My clients want to face what is getting in the way of their living happier, more fulfilled lives. They want to talk about their struggles and then create a plan to move on so they can be at peace with themselves and others.
(801) 896-9630 View (801) 896-9630
Photo of Carly Nielsen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Nielsen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Haven, UT 84401
My main approaches include Attachment Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Person Centered Therapy, Polyavgal Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
My aim in working with individuals is to create an inclusive and supportive therapeutic environment using empathy, compassion, and authenticity. I offer a flexible, client-centered approach to therapy. This means that I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative process where client and therapist work together to develop goals and objectives for therapy and explore the best ways to go about it. I have experience working with individuals facing a range of challenges including, but not limited to, trauma (PTSD/CPSTD), self-acceptance, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and neurodivergence (ADHD/Autism).
My main approaches include Attachment Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Person Centered Therapy, Polyavgal Theory and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
My aim in working with individuals is to create an inclusive and supportive therapeutic environment using empathy, compassion, and authenticity. I offer a flexible, client-centered approach to therapy. This means that I view the therapeutic relationship as a collaborative process where client and therapist work together to develop goals and objectives for therapy and explore the best ways to go about it. I have experience working with individuals facing a range of challenges including, but not limited to, trauma (PTSD/CPSTD), self-acceptance, anxiety, depression, emotional dysregulation, and neurodivergence (ADHD/Autism).
(385) 644-1545 View (385) 644-1545
Photo of Abree Mize, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Abree Mize
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Haven, UT 84401
I am certified in EMDR and as a Trauma Sensitive Yoga Practitioner.
I have seen more resiliency than I ever thought imaginable. Both through teens and older adults. I specialize in working to heal current and past trauma. I have worked with the abused/neglected youth and adults, behavioral issues, domestic violence, postpartum depression, addiction, anxiety, depression, borderline, PTSD, bipolar and more. Throughout all of my work, I have learned how unique each individual is and how unique each of their healing processes are. I believe in the power of the mind and sometimes the need to heal that mind to find the power hidden beneath.
I am certified in EMDR and as a Trauma Sensitive Yoga Practitioner.
I have seen more resiliency than I ever thought imaginable. Both through teens and older adults. I specialize in working to heal current and past trauma. I have worked with the abused/neglected youth and adults, behavioral issues, domestic violence, postpartum depression, addiction, anxiety, depression, borderline, PTSD, bipolar and more. Throughout all of my work, I have learned how unique each individual is and how unique each of their healing processes are. I believe in the power of the mind and sometimes the need to heal that mind to find the power hidden beneath.
(385) 758-5189 View (385) 758-5189
Photo of Teresa Salais, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa Salais
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
West Haven, UT 84401
I use a variety of techniques such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) depending on each individual circumstance.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with addictions, anger, anxiety, bipolar, depression, emotional abuse, identity issues, physical abuse, postpartum depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, self-harm, sexual abuse, sexual orientation, substance abuse, suicide prevention and trauma. I have experience working with clients who have mild to severe mental health issues. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults.
I use a variety of techniques such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution Focused Therapy and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) depending on each individual circumstance.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with addictions, anger, anxiety, bipolar, depression, emotional abuse, identity issues, physical abuse, postpartum depression, posttraumatic stress disorder, self-harm, sexual abuse, sexual orientation, substance abuse, suicide prevention and trauma. I have experience working with clients who have mild to severe mental health issues. I enjoy working with children, adolescents and adults.
(385) 206-6626 View (385) 206-6626
Photo of Kristi Brown - Kristi Brown at Wellness Mindset LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristi Brown at Wellness Mindset LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Haven, UT 84401
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in working collectively to create safety, healing, and hope to create a life with purpose. My intention is to build a therapeutic environment using empathy and evidence based practices that will empower and renew your sense of inner strength and resiliency. My purpose is to empower and walk with my clients on their path to healing while they develop a sense of a greater and truer self. Using a strengths-based approach people can develop skills to enhance their personal lives and relationships. I am passionate about connecting the mind, body, and soul to allow for healing and growth on multiple levels.
I believe in working collectively to create safety, healing, and hope to create a life with purpose. My intention is to build a therapeutic environment using empathy and evidence based practices that will empower and renew your sense of inner strength and resiliency. My purpose is to empower and walk with my clients on their path to healing while they develop a sense of a greater and truer self. Using a strengths-based approach people can develop skills to enhance their personal lives and relationships. I am passionate about connecting the mind, body, and soul to allow for healing and growth on multiple levels.
(801) 441-4039 View (801) 441-4039
Photo of Laura Gonzalez, CSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Laura Gonzalez
Pre-Licensed Professional, CSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Haven, UT 84401
My name is Laura Gonzalez, and as a Certified Social Worker, I understand that life can often leave us feeling lost, hurt, or overwhelmed. My passion lies in guiding adults and late teens through these challenging times, helping them rediscover hope and resilience. With a wealth of experience in addressing issues like trauma and generational trauma, depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, family conflicts, and more, I am committed to supporting diverse populations. This includes the LGBTQ community, Spanish speakers, immigrants facing unique challenges, survivors of domestic violence, aging adults, and those coping with grief.
My name is Laura Gonzalez, and as a Certified Social Worker, I understand that life can often leave us feeling lost, hurt, or overwhelmed. My passion lies in guiding adults and late teens through these challenging times, helping them rediscover hope and resilience. With a wealth of experience in addressing issues like trauma and generational trauma, depression, anxiety, postpartum depression, family conflicts, and more, I am committed to supporting diverse populations. This includes the LGBTQ community, Spanish speakers, immigrants facing unique challenges, survivors of domestic violence, aging adults, and those coping with grief.
(385) 644-6692 View (385) 644-6692

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Callee LaPlant, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Callee LaPlant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84401
I specialize in EMDR, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, acceptance and commitment, developmental, interpersonal therapies….
We all have moments in our lives when we feel stuck, disconnected, or out of balance. During this time of global uncertainty, reaching out for support is more important than ever. I strive to create an environment where individuals, couples and families feel supported and heard. My passion is working with those who are looking to explore the challenging interaction cycles that get in the way of feeling safe and connected.
I specialize in EMDR, cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, acceptance and commitment, developmental, interpersonal therapies….
We all have moments in our lives when we feel stuck, disconnected, or out of balance. During this time of global uncertainty, reaching out for support is more important than ever. I strive to create an environment where individuals, couples and families feel supported and heard. My passion is working with those who are looking to explore the challenging interaction cycles that get in the way of feeling safe and connected.
(801) 509-6910 View (801) 509-6910
Photo of Rachel Huntsman, LCSW, TRS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Huntsman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TRS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84401
I use a trauma informed approach to therapy, as well as EMDR, CBT, and DBT to help individuals address trauma, regulate emotions, and challenge negative thinking to build strength and resilience.
I am passionate about breaking down the stigmas surrounding mental health. So often we find ourselves with negative thoughts and beliefs about ourselves, others, or the world around us that hold us back from understanding or seeing who we really are and what we can become. I seek to help individuals break down their negative and distorted thinking so they can see themselves and the world around them in a more healthy and positive way. I enjoy working with adults and young adults who struggle with a range of anxiety, depression, and negative views of self.
I use a trauma informed approach to therapy, as well as EMDR, CBT, and DBT to help individuals address trauma, regulate emotions, and challenge negative thinking to build strength and resilience.
I am passionate about breaking down the stigmas surrounding mental health. So often we find ourselves with negative thoughts and beliefs about ourselves, others, or the world around us that hold us back from understanding or seeing who we really are and what we can become. I seek to help individuals break down their negative and distorted thinking so they can see themselves and the world around them in a more healthy and positive way. I enjoy working with adults and young adults who struggle with a range of anxiety, depression, and negative views of self.
(435) 292-3650 View (435) 292-3650
Photo of Erin Nibley, LMHC, Counselor
Erin Nibley
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84404  (Online Only)
Erin Nibley WA license: LH60761968 UT license: 5172203-6004 My practice focuses on creating a safe place for you to begin or continue your process of healing. I have had several years of experience working with people who have issues with mental illness, substance abuse, and complex trauma. I use an eclectic approach that is client centered, and enjoy using EMDR, Gestalt, and existential modalities.
Erin Nibley WA license: LH60761968 UT license: 5172203-6004 My practice focuses on creating a safe place for you to begin or continue your process of healing. I have had several years of experience working with people who have issues with mental illness, substance abuse, and complex trauma. I use an eclectic approach that is client centered, and enjoy using EMDR, Gestalt, and existential modalities.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Natasha A Muren, MC, LCMHC, Counselor
Natasha A Muren
Counselor, MC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84401
These include but not limited to EMDR, EFT, Gottman Method and CBT.
My hope as a therapist is to assist individuals and couples in uncovering and developing healthy coping skills, personal strengths, and insight into core values and beliefs. I will also help clients identify and overcome obstacles and life challenges that continue to impact their functioning and happiness.
These include but not limited to EMDR, EFT, Gottman Method and CBT.
My hope as a therapist is to assist individuals and couples in uncovering and developing healthy coping skills, personal strengths, and insight into core values and beliefs. I will also help clients identify and overcome obstacles and life challenges that continue to impact their functioning and happiness.
(801) 719-5432 View (801) 719-5432
Photo of Jodi C Walker - Insight Solutions Counseling , CMHC, Counselor
Insight Solutions Counseling
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84401
Through the use of ART, R/O-DBT, CBT, EMDR, and a client-centered approach, we work together to reduce the symptoms and behavior that is creating suffering for you.
When human beings experience trauma, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My passion is bringing healing to people who have been through a these experiences. I help my clients to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole and safe. I also know that no single approach is the right one for every individual; therefore, I have trained in a range of modalities to improve my skills and help those I work with.
Through the use of ART, R/O-DBT, CBT, EMDR, and a client-centered approach, we work together to reduce the symptoms and behavior that is creating suffering for you.
When human beings experience trauma, it is not uncommon for their lives to unravel. My passion is bringing healing to people who have been through a these experiences. I help my clients to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole and safe. I also know that no single approach is the right one for every individual; therefore, I have trained in a range of modalities to improve my skills and help those I work with.
(385) 563-1206 View (385) 563-1206
Photo of Adrienne Morrill, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Adrienne Morrill
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84403
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified in EMDR to help you move through your trauma.
Are you scared to start therapy? Have you been scrolling through therapists and are overwhelmed? If you want a gentle start I would love to help. Individuals and couples struggling with pregnancy, reproductive loss, postpartum depression/anxiety, and sexual challenges often feel alone and isolated when they need support. I am happy to learn your individual story and see where we can find some hope together.
I am certified in EMDR to help you move through your trauma.
Are you scared to start therapy? Have you been scrolling through therapists and are overwhelmed? If you want a gentle start I would love to help. Individuals and couples struggling with pregnancy, reproductive loss, postpartum depression/anxiety, and sexual challenges often feel alone and isolated when they need support. I am happy to learn your individual story and see where we can find some hope together.
(385) 899-2534 View (385) 899-2534
Photo of Natalie Nielsen (Tranquility Of Mind Pllc), LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Nielsen (Tranquility Of Mind Pllc)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84201
I provide; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Expressive Arts and Play Therapy.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma and adjustment to life changes. I also specialize in self-esteem enhancement. As a mental health provider, I hold a firm belief in human capability and resiliency. As a therapist, I focus on helping clients utilize their potential. I have 10 years of experience, as a mental health clinician. I provide therapy for teens and adults who struggle with a variety circumstances.
I provide; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Expressive Arts and Play Therapy.
I specialize in anxiety, depression, mood disorders, trauma and adjustment to life changes. I also specialize in self-esteem enhancement. As a mental health provider, I hold a firm belief in human capability and resiliency. As a therapist, I focus on helping clients utilize their potential. I have 10 years of experience, as a mental health clinician. I provide therapy for teens and adults who struggle with a variety circumstances.
(385) 217-0592 View (385) 217-0592
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 believe it is important to be empathetic while also 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 believe it is important to be empathetic while also being direct.
(801) 383-0679 View (801) 383-0679
Photo of Danna Russell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danna Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84401
I am trained and experienced in Cognitive, Dialectic, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapies, EMDR and Motivational Interviewing.
I am excited and motivated to assist persons with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, stress management, relationship issues, PTSD, and development of coping skills. I am experienced in working with adolescents 12 years and older, adults, and families. My approach to therapy allows clients to participate in experiences that promote growth, insight, and lasting memories that will assist them through the years, following their time spent in therapy. I have been counseling individuals and families for 16 years through various opportunities during my career.
I am trained and experienced in Cognitive, Dialectic, and Rational Emotive Behavior Therapies, EMDR and Motivational Interviewing.
I am excited and motivated to assist persons with depression, anxiety, mood disorders, grief and loss, stress management, relationship issues, PTSD, and development of coping skills. I am experienced in working with adolescents 12 years and older, adults, and families. My approach to therapy allows clients to participate in experiences that promote growth, insight, and lasting memories that will assist them through the years, following their time spent in therapy. I have been counseling individuals and families for 16 years through various opportunities during my career.
(385) 444-2358 View (385) 444-2358
Photo of Brant Watters - A Better You Therapy , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Better You Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84401  (Online Only)
CBT, EMDR, solution focus, DBT skills.
I am a compassionate and experienced therapist specializing in working with children, teenagers, adults, and couples. I believe that therapy is a collaborative journey, and I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients every step of the way. Using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, I provide effective and tailored interventions to address a wide range of mental health concerns.
CBT, EMDR, solution focus, DBT skills.
I am a compassionate and experienced therapist specializing in working with children, teenagers, adults, and couples. I believe that therapy is a collaborative journey, and I am dedicated to walking alongside my clients every step of the way. Using evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Solution-Focused Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) skills, I provide effective and tailored interventions to address a wide range of mental health concerns.
(385) 832-7376 View (385) 832-7376
Photo of Hannah Cross, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Cross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ogden, UT 84401
Waitlist for new clients
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Transpersonal Psychology, and somatic healing modalities are the primary tools I use, when called-for, in therapy.
I specialize in trauma-healing and psychedelic integration. My clinical work and training has been focused on assisting those with emotional, behavioral, and social concerns, many of which stem from a history of adverse experiences, reach a place where their actions and lives are led by True Self. I began providing therapy in a substance abuse treatment facility and am now the Clinical Director of a residential program for adults. I worked for a few years with incarcerated adolescents in a long-term secure facility. I now work with individuals of diverse ages, histories, and treatment goals. Note:
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Transpersonal Psychology, and somatic healing modalities are the primary tools I use, when called-for, in therapy.
I specialize in trauma-healing and psychedelic integration. My clinical work and training has been focused on assisting those with emotional, behavioral, and social concerns, many of which stem from a history of adverse experiences, reach a place where their actions and lives are led by True Self. I began providing therapy in a substance abuse treatment facility and am now the Clinical Director of a residential program for adults. I worked for a few years with incarcerated adolescents in a long-term secure facility. I now work with individuals of diverse ages, histories, and treatment goals. Note:
(801) 923-6793 View (801) 923-6793
Photo of Terrance Orton - Terrance Orton, Blue Spruce Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terrance Orton, Blue Spruce Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84401
I have been trained in many therapy modalities including EMDR, and use it as my primary intervention.
I have a passion for working with people from all walks of life. Oftentimes we may feel alone or like our problems are so great they cannot be overcome. Other times people feel a lot of shame about reaching out for help and see it as a sign of weakness or failure. I can assure you that you are not alone in your suffering or with your specific problems. Change, connection, and relief from mental and emotional suffering is possible. It is important to remember that we humans are social creatures and that reaching out for connection and support is built in to who we are, not a sign of weakness.
I have been trained in many therapy modalities including EMDR, and use it as my primary intervention.
I have a passion for working with people from all walks of life. Oftentimes we may feel alone or like our problems are so great they cannot be overcome. Other times people feel a lot of shame about reaching out for help and see it as a sign of weakness or failure. I can assure you that you are not alone in your suffering or with your specific problems. Change, connection, and relief from mental and emotional suffering is possible. It is important to remember that we humans are social creatures and that reaching out for connection and support is built in to who we are, not a sign of weakness.
(801) 290-8351 View (801) 290-8351
Photo of Katie Walter, CMHC, Counselor
Katie Walter
Counselor, CMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ogden, UT 84401
I have training in DBT, ART, and EMDR.
I believe each individual is a powerful and strong soul. They may struggle or through life experiences can develop symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and others. But when viewed as a whole person with capacity, ability and knowledge - they can work to find acceptance, relief and contentment.
I have training in DBT, ART, and EMDR.
I believe each individual is a powerful and strong soul. They may struggle or through life experiences can develop symptoms of depression, anxiety, trauma, and others. But when viewed as a whole person with capacity, ability and knowledge - they can work to find acceptance, relief and contentment.
(385) 257-3352 View (385) 257-3352

See more therapy options for West Haven

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.