EMDR Therapists in Arlington, WA

Photo of Jennifer Carli - Foundations Counseling LLC, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Foundations Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
Our therapists utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches from CBT and DBT to EMDR.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or have experienced trauma we would love the opportunity to partner with you. Reach out today to get scheduled therapist who will work collaboratively with you to achieve your goals from the convenience of your home via our secure Telehealth platform. At Foundations Counseling we understand that each individuals needs are as unique as you are. We strive to provide care that fits you. We would love the opportunity to work with you on your path to healing.
Our therapists utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches from CBT and DBT to EMDR.
Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, or have experienced trauma we would love the opportunity to partner with you. Reach out today to get scheduled therapist who will work collaboratively with you to achieve your goals from the convenience of your home via our secure Telehealth platform. At Foundations Counseling we understand that each individuals needs are as unique as you are. We strive to provide care that fits you. We would love the opportunity to work with you on your path to healing.
(360) 525-1158 View (360) 525-1158
Photo of Jeanne Jankus - Jeanne Jankus Counseling, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Jeanne Jankus Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
I integrate evidence based therapies such as EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), couples and family systems therapies, narrative therapy, and attachment therapies, along with other neuroscience based modalities.
It is hard for many of us to reach out to someone for help. It may be embarrassment, or being unsure how therapy would help heal you. Our journey together will be a compassionate, nonjudgemental classroom where you will learn more of your pure self and its ability to heal. It is important that we both see clearly in our work together: "There’s one skill at the center of any healthy family, company, classroom, community, university or nation — the ability to see someone else deeply, to know another person profoundly, to make them feel heard and understood.” David Brooks, New York Times
I integrate evidence based therapies such as EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), couples and family systems therapies, narrative therapy, and attachment therapies, along with other neuroscience based modalities.
It is hard for many of us to reach out to someone for help. It may be embarrassment, or being unsure how therapy would help heal you. Our journey together will be a compassionate, nonjudgemental classroom where you will learn more of your pure self and its ability to heal. It is important that we both see clearly in our work together: "There’s one skill at the center of any healthy family, company, classroom, community, university or nation — the ability to see someone else deeply, to know another person profoundly, to make them feel heard and understood.” David Brooks, New York Times
(360) 685-7552 View (360) 685-7552
Photo of Elisa Fu, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elisa Fu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
Hiya! My name is Elisa Fu, I am an LICSW in the state of Washington and I use a combined approach to therapy that is based on you, what you need using my 10+ years of motivational interviewing, EMDR, DBT, and trauma-informed lens. I provide a refreshing pace based on what you need and my psychoeducation. I like to focus the first few sessions on building a foundation of trust, understanding, and information, and assessing your current ability to cope with the world. Then we can focus on enforcing and expanding that to assist in your journey of change. I adhere to the 8-step approach of EMDR for security in continuity.
Hiya! My name is Elisa Fu, I am an LICSW in the state of Washington and I use a combined approach to therapy that is based on you, what you need using my 10+ years of motivational interviewing, EMDR, DBT, and trauma-informed lens. I provide a refreshing pace based on what you need and my psychoeducation. I like to focus the first few sessions on building a foundation of trust, understanding, and information, and assessing your current ability to cope with the world. Then we can focus on enforcing and expanding that to assist in your journey of change. I adhere to the 8-step approach of EMDR for security in continuity.
(509) 463-7313 View (509) 463-7313
Photo of Betsy Wright Loving, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Wright Loving
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
I also employ EMDR, mindfulness, cognitive approaches, humor, creativity, body-focused work, breath work, and others -- depending on your needs.
My focus is to help people explore their depression, anxiety, or grief -- to help them better connect emotionally to themselves, and to alleviate the resulting distress and personal problems that get in the way of living satisfying, fulfilling lives. I take an affirming stance toward my clients, and strive to create a warm, supportive environment for exploration of the more painful experiences or trauma that may be interfering with relationships, work, and the ability to be truly happy. My approach is holistic, including physical, emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects.
I also employ EMDR, mindfulness, cognitive approaches, humor, creativity, body-focused work, breath work, and others -- depending on your needs.
My focus is to help people explore their depression, anxiety, or grief -- to help them better connect emotionally to themselves, and to alleviate the resulting distress and personal problems that get in the way of living satisfying, fulfilling lives. I take an affirming stance toward my clients, and strive to create a warm, supportive environment for exploration of the more painful experiences or trauma that may be interfering with relationships, work, and the ability to be truly happy. My approach is holistic, including physical, emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual aspects.
(425) 312-6291 View (425) 312-6291
Photo of Kaitlyn Goubeau - Soundview Wellness, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Soundview Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
Olivia and Alyssa are licensed clinical social work associates (LSWAIC) who work with adults and adolescents. To learn more about their specific styles, please visit our website at www.soundviewwellnesswa.com
Olivia and Alyssa are licensed clinical social work associates (LSWAIC) who work with adults and adolescents. To learn more about their specific styles, please visit our website at www.soundviewwellnesswa.com
(360) 443-5706 View (360) 443-5706
Photo of Issy K Kleiman - Counseling Services for Wellbeing, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Counseling Services for Wellbeing
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
Often the goal of therapy is for clients to develop the capacity to resolve personal problems with the support of a therapist. The clinicians at Counseling Services for Wellbeing work collaboratively with the clients to build on their existing strengths, enhance relationships, increase and procure a support system and obtain the necessary skills and tools to lead a happier and more fulfilling life. We strive to work in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere, tailoring to each client’s individual needs and goals to help achieve the personal growth they are striving for.
(206) 426-0366 View (206) 426-0366
Photo of Connie Guy, MS, LMHC, CMHS, Counselor
Connie Guy
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CMHS
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
Changes and transitions are hard for all of us. Sometimes they can be great things like a new job, relationship or family member and other times they are hard changes like a death or the loss of something important to us. Other times they are the result of a trauma that may be recent or may have happened a while ago. I have several years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, families and couples adapt creatively to these transitions in order to help them become the person they were created to be.
Changes and transitions are hard for all of us. Sometimes they can be great things like a new job, relationship or family member and other times they are hard changes like a death or the loss of something important to us. Other times they are the result of a trauma that may be recent or may have happened a while ago. I have several years of experience helping children, adolescents, adults, families and couples adapt creatively to these transitions in order to help them become the person they were created to be.
(360) 519-5846 View (360) 519-5846
Photo of Laura Marie - Laura Marie Counseling PLLC, LMHC, Counselor
Laura Marie Counseling PLLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
I offer client focused counseling for late adolescence, teens, adults and mature adults 65 and over.  I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, Life change, relationships and family.  With specific experience and expertise with individuals of all ages seeking a change in life. Things like finding your passion and life path, navigating through life, depression, emotional stress, anxiety and creating balance. Using different techniques, practices and theories. I offer a gentle, warm, non-judgmental, real life in approach to counseling . Using different techniques and counseling styles to fit your unique needs.
I offer client focused counseling for late adolescence, teens, adults and mature adults 65 and over.  I specialize in depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, Life change, relationships and family.  With specific experience and expertise with individuals of all ages seeking a change in life. Things like finding your passion and life path, navigating through life, depression, emotional stress, anxiety and creating balance. Using different techniques, practices and theories. I offer a gentle, warm, non-judgmental, real life in approach to counseling . Using different techniques and counseling styles to fit your unique needs.
(360) 526-8829 View (360) 526-8829
Photo of Michelle Lynn Hamilton - Alona Wellness Center, LICSW, CCTP II, CDMDTP, LMHCA, LMFTA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alona Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, CCTP II, CDMDTP, LMHCA, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
Hi! At Alona Wellness Center, we recognize the value, strength, and resilience of all those we serve. We honor differences in individuals, communities, cultures, and populations. We offer a safe space to process cultural and racial trauma, as well as micro-aggressions. We also have providers from the LGBTQTS+ community, as well as LGBTQTS+ allied providers.
Hi! At Alona Wellness Center, we recognize the value, strength, and resilience of all those we serve. We honor differences in individuals, communities, cultures, and populations. We offer a safe space to process cultural and racial trauma, as well as micro-aggressions. We also have providers from the LGBTQTS+ community, as well as LGBTQTS+ allied providers.
(425) 414-3137 View (425) 414-3137
Photo of Rebecca Barrett, MSW, LICSW, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Barrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My focus is healing trauma. I know how much strength it requires to make the decision to seek a therapist. It’s important to make time for mental self-care just like you would schedule a workout or physical. Sometimes we all need a little extra help or an outside perspective. My goal is you feel welcomed, accepted, and validated by being your true self with me. If you are seeking to heal toxic patterns or to implement positive changes toward new growth, I provide a non-judgmental, safe place for you to explore the changes that are healthiest and doable for you. I am a skilled listener who offers unconditional acceptance and hope.
My focus is healing trauma. I know how much strength it requires to make the decision to seek a therapist. It’s important to make time for mental self-care just like you would schedule a workout or physical. Sometimes we all need a little extra help or an outside perspective. My goal is you feel welcomed, accepted, and validated by being your true self with me. If you are seeking to heal toxic patterns or to implement positive changes toward new growth, I provide a non-judgmental, safe place for you to explore the changes that are healthiest and doable for you. I am a skilled listener who offers unconditional acceptance and hope.
(360) 233-8052 View (360) 233-8052
Photo of Carrie A Basher - Journeys of Hope Counseling, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Journeys of Hope Counseling
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Arlington, WA 98223
Not accepting new clients
I have been trained (2020) in EMDR therapy and work with trauma and first responders.
***Please use email as communication***PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL***Life is a journey and there are times we experience great joy on this journey, as well as difficult times filled with frustration, pain, and confusion. You may be experiencing a difficult time, and need some help and support to assist you as you navigate through challenges. No matter how dark and desperate it may seem at the moment for you, there is always hope. Hope is powerful. It gives us the ability to believe that things can and will get better, in order for us to take steps toward change. Counseling can be a powerful tool to help you find hope and healing.
I have been trained (2020) in EMDR therapy and work with trauma and first responders.
***Please use email as communication***PRACTICE IS CURRENTLY FULL***Life is a journey and there are times we experience great joy on this journey, as well as difficult times filled with frustration, pain, and confusion. You may be experiencing a difficult time, and need some help and support to assist you as you navigate through challenges. No matter how dark and desperate it may seem at the moment for you, there is always hope. Hope is powerful. It gives us the ability to believe that things can and will get better, in order for us to take steps toward change. Counseling can be a powerful tool to help you find hope and healing.
(425) 276-7999 View (425) 276-7999
Photo of Jim York, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jim York
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
Not accepting new clients
I draw heavily from cognitive/behavioral and humanist therapies, and utilize EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing) with survivors of trauma.
I specialize in working with people who are struggling with substance use concerns and problems related to past traumatic events. I also see clients for problems related to depression, anxiety, divorce, and other concerns. With all clients, I maintain a "systemic" view: that is, understanding your concerns, and their solutions, in their context. For most, context includes your family, work, cultural values, spiritual beliefs (or lack of), and individual history.
I draw heavily from cognitive/behavioral and humanist therapies, and utilize EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing) with survivors of trauma.
I specialize in working with people who are struggling with substance use concerns and problems related to past traumatic events. I also see clients for problems related to depression, anxiety, divorce, and other concerns. With all clients, I maintain a "systemic" view: that is, understanding your concerns, and their solutions, in their context. For most, context includes your family, work, cultural values, spiritual beliefs (or lack of), and individual history.
(360) 529-3485 View (360) 529-3485
Photo of Steve Dulaney, MA, LMHC, CSAT, EMDR, Counselor
Steve Dulaney
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Arlington, WA 98223
Not accepting new clients
For 14+ years I’ve had the privilege of specializing in helping men (and couples) get un-stuck from patterns of destructive behavior and move from frustration, isolating pain and shame toward a life of renewal and satisfying relationships. Wherever your starting point, I’m honored to help you identify the underlying issues, which may have developed from dysfunctional family of origin dynamics, childhood trauma or abuse, or having never learned the coping skills to handle life’s stressors in a healthy way. Our experience of freedom and forward momentum expands when we face our hidden behaviors and choose honesty with those we love.
For 14+ years I’ve had the privilege of specializing in helping men (and couples) get un-stuck from patterns of destructive behavior and move from frustration, isolating pain and shame toward a life of renewal and satisfying relationships. Wherever your starting point, I’m honored to help you identify the underlying issues, which may have developed from dysfunctional family of origin dynamics, childhood trauma or abuse, or having never learned the coping skills to handle life’s stressors in a healthy way. Our experience of freedom and forward momentum expands when we face our hidden behaviors and choose honesty with those we love.
(425) 286-8986 View (425) 286-8986

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bridgette Picken - Inner Walk Therapy, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Inner Walk Therapy
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270  (Online Only)
I am trained in utilizing EMDR to help clients reprocess past experiences and transform negative cognitions into more adaptive beliefs.
My name is Bridgette, and I am a therapist with 20 years of experience in the field of Behavioral Health. Life can be challenging. Sometimes, specific circumstances can leave us feeling triggered, ungrounded and overwhelmed. At other times, we may not be able to identify a cause, but we know we don’t feel like ourselves. If this resonates with you, you are not alone. I offer psychoeducation around resourcing and skill development necessary for emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
I am trained in utilizing EMDR to help clients reprocess past experiences and transform negative cognitions into more adaptive beliefs.
My name is Bridgette, and I am a therapist with 20 years of experience in the field of Behavioral Health. Life can be challenging. Sometimes, specific circumstances can leave us feeling triggered, ungrounded and overwhelmed. At other times, we may not be able to identify a cause, but we know we don’t feel like ourselves. If this resonates with you, you are not alone. I offer psychoeducation around resourcing and skill development necessary for emotional regulation and distress tolerance.
(509) 800-7284 View (509) 800-7284
Photo of Kirk Henderson, MA, MSCE, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kirk Henderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MSCE, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and Cognitive Therapy to help resolve and process traumatic memories.
Are you going through a divorce, or considering separation from your partner or spouse? Struggling to decide the future of your relationship? Experienced trauma, domestic violence, or other abuse at work or home, and need clarity, peace, and solutions moving forward? I can help guide you through this difficult time. Imagine yourself coping with anxiety, depression, stress, and fears, and getting on a healthy path towards hope and healing. Let's work together to get you the help you need. I provide therapy both in-person at my Brentwood office, and online through virtual telehealth sessions.
I am trained in EMDR and Cognitive Therapy to help resolve and process traumatic memories.
Are you going through a divorce, or considering separation from your partner or spouse? Struggling to decide the future of your relationship? Experienced trauma, domestic violence, or other abuse at work or home, and need clarity, peace, and solutions moving forward? I can help guide you through this difficult time. Imagine yourself coping with anxiety, depression, stress, and fears, and getting on a healthy path towards hope and healing. Let's work together to get you the help you need. I provide therapy both in-person at my Brentwood office, and online through virtual telehealth sessions.
(360) 203-6836 View (360) 203-6836
Photo of Laura Mote, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Mote
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Stanwood, WA 98292
A wise mentor once explained to me that emotions were (E)nergy in (Motion). And that was all the aha I needed to start developing a therapeutic practice focused on the movement of stuck trauma, unhelpful thoughts and poor relationships through the brain and body to develop healing or what Dr. Bruce Perry calls rhythm. One approach to developing rhythm is EMDR. It is an approach that moves us through stuck trauma as quickly as possible. EMDR creates rhythm by building confidence, clarity, self-compassion, and healthy connection with the self and others.
A wise mentor once explained to me that emotions were (E)nergy in (Motion). And that was all the aha I needed to start developing a therapeutic practice focused on the movement of stuck trauma, unhelpful thoughts and poor relationships through the brain and body to develop healing or what Dr. Bruce Perry calls rhythm. One approach to developing rhythm is EMDR. It is an approach that moves us through stuck trauma as quickly as possible. EMDR creates rhythm by building confidence, clarity, self-compassion, and healthy connection with the self and others.
(360) 995-1039 View (360) 995-1039
Photo of Kathleen Chandler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Chandler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Marysville, WA 98270
I combine EMDR, IFS, and ACT to help clients heal generational, childhood, and recent trauma.
My ideal client is feeling brave enough to learn how to compassionately feel the pain and discomfort that they've been avoiding. I work with all kinds of people; doctors, teachers, lawyers, therapists, entrepreneurs, sex workers, CEOs, stay at home parents, sales people, college kids, artists, construction workers, parents. If you're ready to take the journey of self discovery; I'm ready to be your guide. My goal is to help lead you towards self-compassion, self-love, and to be self-led.
I combine EMDR, IFS, and ACT to help clients heal generational, childhood, and recent trauma.
My ideal client is feeling brave enough to learn how to compassionately feel the pain and discomfort that they've been avoiding. I work with all kinds of people; doctors, teachers, lawyers, therapists, entrepreneurs, sex workers, CEOs, stay at home parents, sales people, college kids, artists, construction workers, parents. If you're ready to take the journey of self discovery; I'm ready to be your guide. My goal is to help lead you towards self-compassion, self-love, and to be self-led.
(206) 672-7212 View (206) 672-7212
Photo of Dr. Moriah Boggs, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Moriah Boggs
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marysville, WA 98270
Waitlist for new clients
In addition, I have been trained in both EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and the Gottman Method for couples.
Do you feel exhausted and drained all the time? Do you feel stuck, struggling with past traumas and their impact on your present life? If your answer is yes, then you have come to the right place - I work closely with my clients to unpack their past and help them heal from traumas, so they can find balance and overall health in their daily lives. I am passionate about working with couples and individuals and believe that our health is fundamentally tied to our relationships, including the ones we have with ourselves. With that in mind, I strive to create a strong therapeutic relationship that fosters health and healing.
In addition, I have been trained in both EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and the Gottman Method for couples.
Do you feel exhausted and drained all the time? Do you feel stuck, struggling with past traumas and their impact on your present life? If your answer is yes, then you have come to the right place - I work closely with my clients to unpack their past and help them heal from traumas, so they can find balance and overall health in their daily lives. I am passionate about working with couples and individuals and believe that our health is fundamentally tied to our relationships, including the ones we have with ourselves. With that in mind, I strive to create a strong therapeutic relationship that fosters health and healing.
(425) 979-2458 View (425) 979-2458
Photo of Dan Abshere - Camano Counseling, Consulting, and Wellness, NCC, LMHCA
Camano Counseling, Consulting, and Wellness
Mental Health Counselor, NCC, LMHCA
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270
I have specialized training in EMDR, anxiety treatment, and mutli-cultural instruction.
Looking for a therapist who understands you, and the problems you’re facing? Everyone is different, and the challenges we face are complex, which is why I offer therapies that suit your needs while integrating sleep, diet, fitness, relationships, and careers. I provide stress, communication, and social and emotional training for organizations; and specialize in supporting veterans, students, and their families.
I have specialized training in EMDR, anxiety treatment, and mutli-cultural instruction.
Looking for a therapist who understands you, and the problems you’re facing? Everyone is different, and the challenges we face are complex, which is why I offer therapies that suit your needs while integrating sleep, diet, fitness, relationships, and careers. I provide stress, communication, and social and emotional training for organizations; and specialize in supporting veterans, students, and their families.
(360) 525-2759 View (360) 525-2759
Photo of April Godsey, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
April Godsey
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Marysville, WA 98270  (Online Only)
In my practice, I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to lessen anxiety, traumatic memories, and phobic responses.
Offering Online Videoconference sessions through Psychology Today. I am an EMDRIA certified EMDR Therapist. Are anxiety, panic, or phobias limiting your life? Are you still affected by past trauma or issues from childhood? Do you struggle with a poor body image, or low self-esteem? I specialize in helping adults identify their personal strengths, and change their limiting beliefs, and negative patterns of behavior. I focus on building clients' self-respect and sense of empowerment.
In my practice, I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to lessen anxiety, traumatic memories, and phobic responses.
Offering Online Videoconference sessions through Psychology Today. I am an EMDRIA certified EMDR Therapist. Are anxiety, panic, or phobias limiting your life? Are you still affected by past trauma or issues from childhood? Do you struggle with a poor body image, or low self-esteem? I specialize in helping adults identify their personal strengths, and change their limiting beliefs, and negative patterns of behavior. I focus on building clients' self-respect and sense of empowerment.
(360) 209-2471 View (360) 209-2471
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.