EMDR Therapists in Manchester Center, VT

Photo of Joanne Beck, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Beck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Manchester Center, VT 05255
Waitlist for new clients
As a clinician my role is to support and advocate for your well being. How we get there is completely dependent on what works best for you. I am an EMDR Certified therapist and EMDR Child Specialist providing trauma informed therapy to both children and adults. I am trained in Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT) helping parents and children repair their relationship through an evidence based approach. I also have experience providing solutions to those struggling with addiction discover paths to sobriety. I look forward to working with you!
As a clinician my role is to support and advocate for your well being. How we get there is completely dependent on what works best for you. I am an EMDR Certified therapist and EMDR Child Specialist providing trauma informed therapy to both children and adults. I am trained in Parent Child Interactive Therapy (PCIT) helping parents and children repair their relationship through an evidence based approach. I also have experience providing solutions to those struggling with addiction discover paths to sobriety. I look forward to working with you!
(802) 689-1175 View (802) 689-1175
Photo of Leslie A Reed - Leslie A Reed, PhD LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Leslie A Reed, PhD LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Manchester Center, VT 05255
I offer clients a calm, compassionate presence, providing practical tools to navigate life's inevitable challenges. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space for growth, healing, and discovery. Drawing from the latest research in neuroscience, attachment theory, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, I customize treatment according to your goals. Enhanced happiness is not just a wishful goal. Current research concludes that 40 percent of an individual's happiness is based on choices, attitudes and ways of thinking/behaving. My intention is to enhance your well-being, freedom and capacity to be present for your life.
I offer clients a calm, compassionate presence, providing practical tools to navigate life's inevitable challenges. Therapy provides a safe, supportive space for growth, healing, and discovery. Drawing from the latest research in neuroscience, attachment theory, mindfulness, and cognitive behavioral therapy, I customize treatment according to your goals. Enhanced happiness is not just a wishful goal. Current research concludes that 40 percent of an individual's happiness is based on choices, attitudes and ways of thinking/behaving. My intention is to enhance your well-being, freedom and capacity to be present for your life.
(802) 277-7078 View (802) 277-7078
Photo of Jessica Townsend, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Jessica Townsend
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Manchester Center, VT 05255
Offering in-person in VT & telehealth NY Are you feeling disconnected from yourself or others? Does your life feel unbalanced and relationships feel strained? Is this source of unrest and discomfort evident in your daily life; perhaps reflected in relationships with your children, spouse, partner, or friends? Sometimes significant life events can dramatically change the course of your life. Other times you may be confused and unaware of how you ended up on your current path. If you clicked on this page, you recognize that you want change. I believe in your innate ability to heal and achieve a sense of wholeness and wellbeing.
Offering in-person in VT & telehealth NY Are you feeling disconnected from yourself or others? Does your life feel unbalanced and relationships feel strained? Is this source of unrest and discomfort evident in your daily life; perhaps reflected in relationships with your children, spouse, partner, or friends? Sometimes significant life events can dramatically change the course of your life. Other times you may be confused and unaware of how you ended up on your current path. If you clicked on this page, you recognize that you want change. I believe in your innate ability to heal and achieve a sense of wholeness and wellbeing.
(518) 636-0483 View (518) 636-0483
Photo of Kristyn D Harrington, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristyn D Harrington
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Manchester Center, VT 05255
Not accepting new clients
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or not enjoying things day to day? Do you wish your relationships with family, friends or coworkers would feel more connected? Maybe you’re not feeling as successful at school or work as you would like. Perhaps something difficult has happened and your struggling to make sense of it and heal.
Do you find yourself feeling overwhelmed or not enjoying things day to day? Do you wish your relationships with family, friends or coworkers would feel more connected? Maybe you’re not feeling as successful at school or work as you would like. Perhaps something difficult has happened and your struggling to make sense of it and heal.
(802) 327-7769 View (802) 327-7769

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Scott J. Burg, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Scott J. Burg
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Manchester, VT 05254
I work closely with my clients to build relationships based upon mutual trust and respect, together creating a therapeutic environment in which they can feel safe and understood. My work is focused on children and adolescents, although I also work with parents. I am trained in a variety of treatment approaches, including EMDR, CBT, attachment, mindfulness, and trauma-informed therapies. This allows me to choose the best approach for each client. Along with my clients (and their parents, when appropriate), we establish clear treatment goals, and work together to achieve them. Specialties include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Trauma.
I work closely with my clients to build relationships based upon mutual trust and respect, together creating a therapeutic environment in which they can feel safe and understood. My work is focused on children and adolescents, although I also work with parents. I am trained in a variety of treatment approaches, including EMDR, CBT, attachment, mindfulness, and trauma-informed therapies. This allows me to choose the best approach for each client. Along with my clients (and their parents, when appropriate), we establish clear treatment goals, and work together to achieve them. Specialties include Anxiety, Depression, ADHD and Trauma.
(802) 768-7580 View (802) 768-7580
Photo of Timothy W Latsko, MA, LPC , LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Timothy W Latsko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC , LMFT
Verified Verified
Manchester, VT 05254  (Online Only)
Psychotherapy is a lifelong arduous learning and self exploration process that will improve the quality of life. I approach therapy with genuineness, unconditional positive regard, accurate empathy, and respect. I will competently employ techniques in which I have received training to assist you in reaching your goals. Technics I may use are EMDR, hypnosis, confrontation, desensitization, homework, humor, imagery, 'I' statements, modeling, psychodrama, journal writing and role-playing. If through the course of psychotherapy an acceptable degree of progress is not reached, I will refer you to another licensed professional.
Psychotherapy is a lifelong arduous learning and self exploration process that will improve the quality of life. I approach therapy with genuineness, unconditional positive regard, accurate empathy, and respect. I will competently employ techniques in which I have received training to assist you in reaching your goals. Technics I may use are EMDR, hypnosis, confrontation, desensitization, homework, humor, imagery, 'I' statements, modeling, psychodrama, journal writing and role-playing. If through the course of psychotherapy an acceptable degree of progress is not reached, I will refer you to another licensed professional.
(843) 281-7622 View (843) 281-7622
Photo of Rev. Stephen (Steve) Longley, LICSW, MDiv, MSW, Counselor
Rev. Stephen (Steve) Longley
Counselor, LICSW, MDiv, MSW
Verified Verified
Dorset, VT 05251
For persons seeking help with trauma, I am trained in EMDR.
Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or behavioral, substance, or spiritual issues? Are you a couple looking for help? If so, I hope you’ll reach out. I work virtually and from physical offices in Manchester and Dorset, Vermont, and provide integrated mental health counseling services to persons seeking to re-establish or improve daily functioning. I am trained as a psychotherapist and minister. Clients appreciate my supportive and solution-focused approach to counseling.
For persons seeking help with trauma, I am trained in EMDR.
Are you or a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or behavioral, substance, or spiritual issues? Are you a couple looking for help? If so, I hope you’ll reach out. I work virtually and from physical offices in Manchester and Dorset, Vermont, and provide integrated mental health counseling services to persons seeking to re-establish or improve daily functioning. I am trained as a psychotherapist and minister. Clients appreciate my supportive and solution-focused approach to counseling.
(802) 456-4317 View (802) 456-4317
Photo of Erika D. Crowers, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika D. Crowers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Manchester, VT 05254
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Vermont and hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of New Hampshire. I began my career in the mental health field in 2007 and have enjoyed supporting my community through advocacy, awareness, and education. I have held various roles, which included case management, career counseling, crisis intervention, hospital social work, supervisory, and psychotherapy. My goal is to provide a supportive environment that will help you gain therapeutic insight to cultivate growth. While assisting you
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Vermont and hold a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of New Hampshire. I began my career in the mental health field in 2007 and have enjoyed supporting my community through advocacy, awareness, and education. I have held various roles, which included case management, career counseling, crisis intervention, hospital social work, supervisory, and psychotherapy. My goal is to provide a supportive environment that will help you gain therapeutic insight to cultivate growth. While assisting you
(802) 230-1744 View (802) 230-1744
Photo of Emily Brooks - Emily Brooks, LMFT, LLC, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Brooks, LMFT, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, VT 05254
Today's crazy pace of life as well as the stresses of family, money, school, employment, not to mention COVID-19 and politics, it is no wonder more and more people are looking for therapeutic support to find balance in their lives. I will strive to help you find that balance, working with and building on your strengths, already present within you, but lost in the chaos of present day life in a safe, supportive environment. We will work to build coping skills to deal with every day life, when things get tough. Life is full of ups and downs. You can learn new ways to shift your perception, to build on the strengths and positives.
Today's crazy pace of life as well as the stresses of family, money, school, employment, not to mention COVID-19 and politics, it is no wonder more and more people are looking for therapeutic support to find balance in their lives. I will strive to help you find that balance, working with and building on your strengths, already present within you, but lost in the chaos of present day life in a safe, supportive environment. We will work to build coping skills to deal with every day life, when things get tough. Life is full of ups and downs. You can learn new ways to shift your perception, to build on the strengths and positives.
(802) 327-7802 View (802) 327-7802
Photo of Brad Young, MS, LCMHC, CHT, Counselor
Brad Young
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CHT
Verified Verified
Manchester, VT 05254
Sick of waiting to see a Counselor? I offer brief, intense, effective treatments to resolve old hurts and beliefs that get in the way of life. Ready for permanent shifts in a short amount of time? I can help! With brief therapy, openings happen often. Book now on my website. I specialize in helping people overcome past trauma quickly. This is not talk therapy, it is more like auto mechanics. We find the issue and fix it so that you can get back to your best life. Do you wonder if there could be more freedom and peace in life? There is, and If you are ready for that sort of change book it online right now.
Sick of waiting to see a Counselor? I offer brief, intense, effective treatments to resolve old hurts and beliefs that get in the way of life. Ready for permanent shifts in a short amount of time? I can help! With brief therapy, openings happen often. Book now on my website. I specialize in helping people overcome past trauma quickly. This is not talk therapy, it is more like auto mechanics. We find the issue and fix it so that you can get back to your best life. Do you wonder if there could be more freedom and peace in life? There is, and If you are ready for that sort of change book it online right now.
(802) 992-1326 View (802) 992-1326
Photo of Michelle Golden - Michelle Golden, LCMHC, CIMHP, LCMHC, CIMHP
Michelle Golden, LCMHC, CIMHP
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Manchester, VT 05254  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist, as well as a Certified Integrative Mental Health Counselor.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, stuck, unsure of what you need? I can help you navigate conflicting feelings, thoughts, and process negative beliefs and experiences which may be holding you back from reaching your true, full potential. I will work to understand all parts of who you are, openly and honestly challenge you, and encourage you to grow. My approach is direct, and transparency is critical in my practice. I will meet you where you are, and walk with you through the "stuff." I take into consideration your environment, social/emotional supports, history, and current coping skills.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist, as well as a Certified Integrative Mental Health Counselor.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, confused, stuck, unsure of what you need? I can help you navigate conflicting feelings, thoughts, and process negative beliefs and experiences which may be holding you back from reaching your true, full potential. I will work to understand all parts of who you are, openly and honestly challenge you, and encourage you to grow. My approach is direct, and transparency is critical in my practice. I will meet you where you are, and walk with you through the "stuff." I take into consideration your environment, social/emotional supports, history, and current coping skills.
(802) 523-3429 View (802) 523-3429
Photo of Dean Mooney - Maple Leaf Clinic, Psychologist
Maple Leaf Clinic
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Manchester, VT 05254
Not accepting new clients
Maple Leaf Clinic, P.C. founded by Dr. Dean Mooney, provides a wide variety of services to the community including neuropsychological, educational, and psychological evaluations of children, adolescents and adults. Psychotherapy for people of all ages is also available. We also provide social skills development for all ages, cognitive rehabilitation for brain damage using the REHABIT program, professional development, and educational or clinical consultation (in person, by phone, or through FaceTime, Zoom, Doxy, Google Meet, or other telehealth options).
Maple Leaf Clinic, P.C. founded by Dr. Dean Mooney, provides a wide variety of services to the community including neuropsychological, educational, and psychological evaluations of children, adolescents and adults. Psychotherapy for people of all ages is also available. We also provide social skills development for all ages, cognitive rehabilitation for brain damage using the REHABIT program, professional development, and educational or clinical consultation (in person, by phone, or through FaceTime, Zoom, Doxy, Google Meet, or other telehealth options).
(802) 446-3577 View (802) 446-3577

Online Therapists

Photo of Daniel G Guertin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Daniel G Guertin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602
I have 45 years of counseling / therapy experience, with formal and ongoing trainings that focused on Mindfulness, Supportive Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Processing, Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy approaches and Internal Family Systems.
You've taken a big step by looking for someone to talk with. I would like to help you understand of how things have become difficult so you can make your life work for you. When we can see and accept the emotions or challenges that leave us stuck and unfulfilled we can step back and allow our strength move us into what feels right more functional and healthy. If you are reaching out for help it shows a sign of strength that I believe will allow you and I to work towards your goals.
I have 45 years of counseling / therapy experience, with formal and ongoing trainings that focused on Mindfulness, Supportive Psychodynamic Therapy, Cognitive Processing, Eye Movement, Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy approaches and Internal Family Systems.
You've taken a big step by looking for someone to talk with. I would like to help you understand of how things have become difficult so you can make your life work for you. When we can see and accept the emotions or challenges that leave us stuck and unfulfilled we can step back and allow our strength move us into what feels right more functional and healthy. If you are reaching out for help it shows a sign of strength that I believe will allow you and I to work towards your goals.
(802) 230-1735 View (802) 230-1735
Photo of Shiri Kaczur - Shiri Kaczur, MA, LPC - Whole Body Psychotherapy, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shiri Kaczur, MA, LPC - Whole Body Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Montpelier, VT 05602  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am professionally trained and experienced in a number of proven modalities which target this, including EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems.
I specialize in healing from deeply-rooted trauma and distressing life events. If you've been in therapy before and still struggle with problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors which interfere in day-to-day life, a more comprehensive approach may help. Research has shown that present day mental health challenges which originate from earlier life experiences often require intervention with the parts of our system which hold verbal and pre-verbal conditioning. Using both cognitive (brain-focused) AND somatic (body-focused) interventions ensures that all parts of our body are integrated into the healing process.
I am professionally trained and experienced in a number of proven modalities which target this, including EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems.
I specialize in healing from deeply-rooted trauma and distressing life events. If you've been in therapy before and still struggle with problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors which interfere in day-to-day life, a more comprehensive approach may help. Research has shown that present day mental health challenges which originate from earlier life experiences often require intervention with the parts of our system which hold verbal and pre-verbal conditioning. Using both cognitive (brain-focused) AND somatic (body-focused) interventions ensures that all parts of our body are integrated into the healing process.
(512) 764-1426 View (512) 764-1426
Photo of Allison Hansen, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Hansen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Saint Johnsbury, VT 05819
I use EMDR, Progressive Counting, Trauma Systems Therapy, as well as Sandtray & Play therapy interventions.
Clients work with me to find the person hidden behind the protective walls they have built up to feel safe. They need, and want, to feel close to family and friends again but are scared it might not work out in their favor. Their goals are often to love themselves, speak up for themselves, and know they are capable no matter how hard life may be in this season. My clients want to let the past be the past and have their future go the way they've envisioned for so long.
I use EMDR, Progressive Counting, Trauma Systems Therapy, as well as Sandtray & Play therapy interventions.
Clients work with me to find the person hidden behind the protective walls they have built up to feel safe. They need, and want, to feel close to family and friends again but are scared it might not work out in their favor. Their goals are often to love themselves, speak up for themselves, and know they are capable no matter how hard life may be in this season. My clients want to let the past be the past and have their future go the way they've envisioned for so long.
(720) 571-0537 View (720) 571-0537
Photo of Kyla Suarez, MS, RYT-500, Y4C, Registered Psychotherapist
Kyla Suarez
Registered Psychotherapist, MS, RYT-500, Y4C
Verified Verified
Hartland, VT 05048  (Online Only)
Through EMDR, IFS, Attachment Therapy, Somatic Releases, honor the Inner-Child(ren), Yoga and the 8 Foundations of Wellness we will focus on regulating your nervous system so that we can then do the cognitive work together.
Please email to inquire about consultation. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to rediscover your truest self and remain an observant student to the challenges you are confronting. I will support you in facing fear so you can overcome challenges, achieve your goals and love yourself. You will learn ways to regulate your mind and body to support your goals and honor yourself. I support clients that are open and willing to dive deep and begin the practice of believing in themselves, remembering that you are amazing and loving your inner-child as well as connect to other inner-parts (IFS) of yourself.
Through EMDR, IFS, Attachment Therapy, Somatic Releases, honor the Inner-Child(ren), Yoga and the 8 Foundations of Wellness we will focus on regulating your nervous system so that we can then do the cognitive work together.
Please email to inquire about consultation. I strive to provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for you to rediscover your truest self and remain an observant student to the challenges you are confronting. I will support you in facing fear so you can overcome challenges, achieve your goals and love yourself. You will learn ways to regulate your mind and body to support your goals and honor yourself. I support clients that are open and willing to dive deep and begin the practice of believing in themselves, remembering that you are amazing and loving your inner-child as well as connect to other inner-parts (IFS) of yourself.
(802) 222-8938 View (802) 222-8938
Photo of Kevin Figueroa, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Figueroa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Burlington, VT 05401  (Online Only)
My primary modalities of practice include Mindfulness Practice, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and EMDR - all viewed through a trauma-informed lens and approached in a practical, sensitive, and collaborative manner.
Currently accepting new clients. Life can be complex: relationships, family, school, work. Our lives can be further challenged by the unique aspects of our times. We are under constant bombardment of information, straining our ability to focus and compartmentalize. Factors such as trauma, shame and guilt further complicate things. My approach is to help "break it down and make it simple". This means helping people untangle their thoughts, pressures and feelings, while collaboratively devising plans aimed at learning to manage and alleviate whatever symptoms are causing distress.
My primary modalities of practice include Mindfulness Practice, Dialectical Behavior Therapy and EMDR - all viewed through a trauma-informed lens and approached in a practical, sensitive, and collaborative manner.
Currently accepting new clients. Life can be complex: relationships, family, school, work. Our lives can be further challenged by the unique aspects of our times. We are under constant bombardment of information, straining our ability to focus and compartmentalize. Factors such as trauma, shame and guilt further complicate things. My approach is to help "break it down and make it simple". This means helping people untangle their thoughts, pressures and feelings, while collaboratively devising plans aimed at learning to manage and alleviate whatever symptoms are causing distress.
(802) 739-0058 View (802) 739-0058
Photo of Kiana Gates, LICSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kiana Gates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Bennington, VT 05201
Waitlist for new clients
I customize treatment, approaching care by "meeting you where you are" using EMDR, interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), and polyvagal-informed therapy.
No two people experience trauma, stress, anxiety, or depression the same way, and therapy isn't "one size fits all". Everyone has diverse experiences that impact their worldview and perception of self, and everyone's path to healing is unique. We might be a good fit if you're looking for a therapist who understands that and welcomes a collaborative approach to healing!
I customize treatment, approaching care by "meeting you where you are" using EMDR, interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT), and polyvagal-informed therapy.
No two people experience trauma, stress, anxiety, or depression the same way, and therapy isn't "one size fits all". Everyone has diverse experiences that impact their worldview and perception of self, and everyone's path to healing is unique. We might be a good fit if you're looking for a therapist who understands that and welcomes a collaborative approach to healing!
(802) 328-9092 View (802) 328-9092
Sharon Moffatt
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Hardwick, VT 05843
Waitlist for new clients
I use a blend of traditional talk therapy, EMDR if appropriate, and teaching new skills.
There are many reasons why someone might want to seek out counseling; maybe it's the desire to feel less depressed or anxious, to be more connected or understood, or to learn better communication skills in relationship to others. More often than not, the reason a person reaches out to a therapist is because something is out of balance or 'off'. I believe that people have an inherent desire to feel good and that we do the best we can until we learn better ways.
I use a blend of traditional talk therapy, EMDR if appropriate, and teaching new skills.
There are many reasons why someone might want to seek out counseling; maybe it's the desire to feel less depressed or anxious, to be more connected or understood, or to learn better communication skills in relationship to others. More often than not, the reason a person reaches out to a therapist is because something is out of balance or 'off'. I believe that people have an inherent desire to feel good and that we do the best we can until we learn better ways.
(802) 368-5190 View (802) 368-5190
Photo of Maggie Hooker, MA, MSW, LCMHC, LADC
Maggie Hooker
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, MSW, LCMHC, LADC
Verified Verified
South Strafford, VT 05070  (Online Only)
I practice EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques and offer a safe space of respect, compassion, and occasional irreverence.
You are here because you are seeking support and a space to explore and unearth challenges. Whether it is anxiety, depression, relationship distress or addiction struggles, therapy can help. I use a client-centered, collaborative approach to recognize areas of discord and strategize to interrupt unhealthy patterns in your life. Together we will work to identify and chart a path forward.
I practice EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing techniques and offer a safe space of respect, compassion, and occasional irreverence.
You are here because you are seeking support and a space to explore and unearth challenges. Whether it is anxiety, depression, relationship distress or addiction struggles, therapy can help. I use a client-centered, collaborative approach to recognize areas of discord and strategize to interrupt unhealthy patterns in your life. Together we will work to identify and chart a path forward.
(802) 368-1140 View (802) 368-1140

See more therapy options for Manchester Center

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.