EMDR Therapists in Poulsbo, WA
Bayview Counseling and Consulting
Counselor, LMHC, CMHS, GMHS, DDS, BDCert
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Need for clarity and improve insight? Counseling is a great avenue to enhance your perspective, improve outlook and renew your spirit. 30 plus years expertise in development, trauma, family systems, parenting, ADHD, couples therapy, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, sexual abuse, trauma, Autism/Aspergers, life transitions and neuroscience, Marcia uses a variety of modalities, depending on need of client(s), CBT, TFCBT, Adult Attachment, Safe Sound Protocol, Family Systems, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Guided Imagery, Anger Management,
Need for clarity and improve insight? Counseling is a great avenue to enhance your perspective, improve outlook and renew your spirit. 30 plus years expertise in development, trauma, family systems, parenting, ADHD, couples therapy, depression, anxiety, grief, stress, sexual abuse, trauma, Autism/Aspergers, life transitions and neuroscience, Marcia uses a variety of modalities, depending on need of client(s), CBT, TFCBT, Adult Attachment, Safe Sound Protocol, Family Systems, EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Guided Imagery, Anger Management,
Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques (Tapping), and EMDR as my primary healing modalities, I have seen people make profound and lasting shifts in their lives and often more rapidly than with talk therapy alone.
Asking for help and finding the support you need is a courageous act and I applaud you for beginning, or returning to, a healing path. Having been in the mental health field for over 30 years, I am certain there is a path of healing for those who want to change their lives. I'd be honored to walk that path with you.
Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Emotional Freedom Techniques (Tapping), and EMDR as my primary healing modalities, I have seen people make profound and lasting shifts in their lives and often more rapidly than with talk therapy alone.
Asking for help and finding the support you need is a courageous act and I applaud you for beginning, or returning to, a healing path. Having been in the mental health field for over 30 years, I am certain there is a path of healing for those who want to change their lives. I'd be honored to walk that path with you.
Shannon Tallon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Gottman, EMDR, and Strength Based, Solution Focused modalities are also incorporated.
Compassion and humor is what you will experience in my office. I cultivate a safe place for you to be your authentic and vulnerable self as we work together to achieve your therapeutic goals. My clients consist of individuals ranging from 15 years old - 75 years old, with a wide array of issues related to communication, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, conflict management, intimacy, trauma, and stress. My Master's in Counseling and post-graduate certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy have equipped me to effectively and compassionately work with people with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Gottman, EMDR, and Strength Based, Solution Focused modalities are also incorporated.
Compassion and humor is what you will experience in my office. I cultivate a safe place for you to be your authentic and vulnerable self as we work together to achieve your therapeutic goals. My clients consist of individuals ranging from 15 years old - 75 years old, with a wide array of issues related to communication, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, conflict management, intimacy, trauma, and stress. My Master's in Counseling and post-graduate certificate in Marriage and Family Therapy have equipped me to effectively and compassionately work with people with diverse backgrounds and experiences.
Darcy M Allbee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW , SUDP , EMDR
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Specialized in EMDR, Attachment based therapy and Certified Trauma Professional.
Specializing in Trauma/PTSD/ EMDR Therapy.....I understand life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, past trauma or any other personal struggles, you've chosen to prioritize your mental health and that's something to be proud of. I am trauma-focused and provide you with a non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings so we can work together towards understanding, healing and positive growth.
Specialized in EMDR, Attachment based therapy and Certified Trauma Professional.
Specializing in Trauma/PTSD/ EMDR Therapy.....I understand life's challenges can sometimes feel overwhelming. Whether you're facing stress, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, past trauma or any other personal struggles, you've chosen to prioritize your mental health and that's something to be proud of. I am trauma-focused and provide you with a non-judgmental space where you can explore your thoughts and feelings so we can work together towards understanding, healing and positive growth.
Dr. Renee Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, EMDR, Equine, IFS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
As a depth-oriented, trauma-based therapist for 24+ years, I'm certified in EMDR, Connection-Focused Equine Assisted Therapy, Parts Work, Sand Tray, & Dreamtending & analysis.
Are you experiencing distressing symptoms from unresolved childhood trauma? You may be experiencing PTSD, flashbacks, nightmares, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, behavioral addictions, or substance use. Perhaps you are going through a major life change or crisis & experiencing trauma triggers that are now wreaking havoc in your life & in significant relationships. I work with those who have experienced trauma at some time in their life. Together, we'll explore how & where the trauma became dysfunctionally stored & we will also explore those Parts that are desperately trying to protect the Self from further distress or pain.
As a depth-oriented, trauma-based therapist for 24+ years, I'm certified in EMDR, Connection-Focused Equine Assisted Therapy, Parts Work, Sand Tray, & Dreamtending & analysis.
Are you experiencing distressing symptoms from unresolved childhood trauma? You may be experiencing PTSD, flashbacks, nightmares, depression, anxiety, panic attacks, behavioral addictions, or substance use. Perhaps you are going through a major life change or crisis & experiencing trauma triggers that are now wreaking havoc in your life & in significant relationships. I work with those who have experienced trauma at some time in their life. Together, we'll explore how & where the trauma became dysfunctionally stored & we will also explore those Parts that are desperately trying to protect the Self from further distress or pain.
I am an EMDR therapist, weaving in parts work (IFS) and self-compassion.
If you are struggling with trauma, dysphoria, anxiety, or life in general, I want to help you feel better. I believe you can find the calm, healing, clarity, and joy you seek. I work predominately with adult clients who experience trauma and PTSD (including C-PTSD), gender dysphoria, depression, self-harm, and anxiety and adjustment disorders. I'm particularly passionate about unsticking negative message received in childhood and accompanying folx on their gender journey. I have years of experience supporting folx through gender transition and providing support to their loved ones.
I am an EMDR therapist, weaving in parts work (IFS) and self-compassion.
If you are struggling with trauma, dysphoria, anxiety, or life in general, I want to help you feel better. I believe you can find the calm, healing, clarity, and joy you seek. I work predominately with adult clients who experience trauma and PTSD (including C-PTSD), gender dysphoria, depression, self-harm, and anxiety and adjustment disorders. I'm particularly passionate about unsticking negative message received in childhood and accompanying folx on their gender journey. I have years of experience supporting folx through gender transition and providing support to their loved ones.
Dr. Renee Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD , LMFT , EMDR, Equine, IFS
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I'm certified in EMDR, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, IFS, & Dreamtending.
Therapy and Consultation for Mental Health and Medical Professionals...Are you feeling burned out, having trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, or feeling like you are not helping your patients or clients as much as you would like to? Maybe you are having a difficult time enjoying the work that you once felt passionate about? Perhaps you are finding that your own unresolved trauma is being triggered in your work and you are having a tough time being fully present. Counter-transference may also be showing up in ways that are not always helpful to those you serve, which can happen when we are experiencing compassion fatigue.
I'm certified in EMDR, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, IFS, & Dreamtending.
Therapy and Consultation for Mental Health and Medical Professionals...Are you feeling burned out, having trouble sleeping, difficulty concentrating, or feeling like you are not helping your patients or clients as much as you would like to? Maybe you are having a difficult time enjoying the work that you once felt passionate about? Perhaps you are finding that your own unresolved trauma is being triggered in your work and you are having a tough time being fully present. Counter-transference may also be showing up in ways that are not always helpful to those you serve, which can happen when we are experiencing compassion fatigue.
Cheri Yadon M.Ed. Lpc LMHC
Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Emdria Certified EMDR Therapist & Approved Consultant.
Deep Brain Reorienting I facilitate the client in the discovery of their own personal resolutions. My style of counseling is focused on self-exploration and increasing an individual's level of understanding surrounding their current life circumstances, and their own behaviors and reactions to those situations. I have a desire to understand each client, and utilize my therapeutic skills and knowledge of psychology and human behavior to facilitate growth. My philosophy is that a client is much more inclined to make possible their own solutions, if they are responsible for creating them. I am licensed in Washington, Oregon and Texas.
Emdria Certified EMDR Therapist & Approved Consultant.
Deep Brain Reorienting I facilitate the client in the discovery of their own personal resolutions. My style of counseling is focused on self-exploration and increasing an individual's level of understanding surrounding their current life circumstances, and their own behaviors and reactions to those situations. I have a desire to understand each client, and utilize my therapeutic skills and knowledge of psychology and human behavior to facilitate growth. My philosophy is that a client is much more inclined to make possible their own solutions, if they are responsible for creating them. I am licensed in Washington, Oregon and Texas.
Jacqueline May
Counselor, LMHC , MA, NCC, CIMHP
Verified Verified
Poulsbo, WA 98370 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a blend of several evidence based modalities; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
I am an attachment focused therapist, who holds space for individuals and couples. I work with folks (20+) experiencing a variety of challenges (anxiety, depression, challenges with confidence, boundaries, CPTSD, attachment issues, grief, and relationship distress). I'm also honored to hold individuals throughout their fertility journey (pregnant / postpartum people, birthing people experiencing mood challenges, and couples going through the transition to parenthood). My practice is an informed, safe place for highly sensitive people, military veterans/spouses/couples.
I utilize a blend of several evidence based modalities; Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Internal Family Systems.
I am an attachment focused therapist, who holds space for individuals and couples. I work with folks (20+) experiencing a variety of challenges (anxiety, depression, challenges with confidence, boundaries, CPTSD, attachment issues, grief, and relationship distress). I'm also honored to hold individuals throughout their fertility journey (pregnant / postpartum people, birthing people experiencing mood challenges, and couples going through the transition to parenthood). My practice is an informed, safe place for highly sensitive people, military veterans/spouses/couples.
I utilize EMDR and other bottom-up approaches such as somatic, polyvagal, and IFS-informed therapy for trauma and trauma-related disorders.
I provide trauma-informed integrative care to individuals with a history of trauma, childhood trauma, neglect, and/or abuse, PTSD, C-PTSD, traumatic grief, and intergenerational trauma. As a whole, I work with individuals who come into therapy with a specific goal to address anxiety, mood, or ADHD symptoms to improve daily functioning. During our work, we often find that there is an undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or unattended history of trauma that compounds mental health symptoms and overall functioning. We work to address symptoms and stabilize functioning through evidence-based interventions, along with process-based therapy.
I utilize EMDR and other bottom-up approaches such as somatic, polyvagal, and IFS-informed therapy for trauma and trauma-related disorders.
I provide trauma-informed integrative care to individuals with a history of trauma, childhood trauma, neglect, and/or abuse, PTSD, C-PTSD, traumatic grief, and intergenerational trauma. As a whole, I work with individuals who come into therapy with a specific goal to address anxiety, mood, or ADHD symptoms to improve daily functioning. During our work, we often find that there is an undiagnosed, misdiagnosed, or unattended history of trauma that compounds mental health symptoms and overall functioning. We work to address symptoms and stabilize functioning through evidence-based interventions, along with process-based therapy.
Kelly Druin Sievertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
My specializations include mindfulness-based interventions and EMDR.
Life's stressors can be overwhelming. Therapy shows us new ways of being and engaging through practicing adaptive skills and mindfulness. I help my clients uncover connections between past experiences that shape their current ways of coping. This leads to the ability to recognize inner strengths, identify and embrace discomfort, and cultivate self-compassion to find peace and true connection. With empathetic listening in a safe environment, I strive to be my client’s ally. I use cognitive and somatic modalities to connect mind and body and tailor my approach to your needs, even using humor when appropriate!
My specializations include mindfulness-based interventions and EMDR.
Life's stressors can be overwhelming. Therapy shows us new ways of being and engaging through practicing adaptive skills and mindfulness. I help my clients uncover connections between past experiences that shape their current ways of coping. This leads to the ability to recognize inner strengths, identify and embrace discomfort, and cultivate self-compassion to find peace and true connection. With empathetic listening in a safe environment, I strive to be my client’s ally. I use cognitive and somatic modalities to connect mind and body and tailor my approach to your needs, even using humor when appropriate!
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Darcy M Allbee
Shannon Rickert
Jesse Spivack
I offer brain based strategies, bringing in the arts & EMDR to help you strengthen, get unstuck moving forward.
Is your child anxious, exhibiting challenging behaviors, or are you struggling with anxiety, feeling down, depressed, barely able to cope? Maybe you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed by events beyond your control. If you know you need help, but you're uncertain of whom to trust or where to begin, I am here. I offer a safe place along with respect, compassion, and warmth. I listen deeply, providing expert caring help for children and adults. Working with current challenges, past traumas, and future goals, I offer support to help develop inner resources, strengthen your sense of self ,and provide skills to increase resiliency and growth.
I offer brain based strategies, bringing in the arts & EMDR to help you strengthen, get unstuck moving forward.
Is your child anxious, exhibiting challenging behaviors, or are you struggling with anxiety, feeling down, depressed, barely able to cope? Maybe you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed by events beyond your control. If you know you need help, but you're uncertain of whom to trust or where to begin, I am here. I offer a safe place along with respect, compassion, and warmth. I listen deeply, providing expert caring help for children and adults. Working with current challenges, past traumas, and future goals, I offer support to help develop inner resources, strengthen your sense of self ,and provide skills to increase resiliency and growth.
I offer compassion-based therapy which focuses on what's right and good in you. I team with clients to create a mutual, shared space of compassion, caring and healing. In this space, problems are explored together, losses and hurts are held together. Where there is trauma, it is transformed through body-based somatic therapy and EMDR. I bring a wide array of therapeutic techniques, from ancient wisdom traditions to cutting edge neurobiology, to support your healing and provide practical skills for reaching your goals. Whatever difficulties you face - healing is the rule, not the exception. Private Pay; $160 (some sliding scale)
I offer compassion-based therapy which focuses on what's right and good in you. I team with clients to create a mutual, shared space of compassion, caring and healing. In this space, problems are explored together, losses and hurts are held together. Where there is trauma, it is transformed through body-based somatic therapy and EMDR. I bring a wide array of therapeutic techniques, from ancient wisdom traditions to cutting edge neurobiology, to support your healing and provide practical skills for reaching your goals. Whatever difficulties you face - healing is the rule, not the exception. Private Pay; $160 (some sliding scale)
Allison Wendt
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm trained in EMDR and use this frequently, while drawing from contemplative and somatic practices, mindfulness and meditative practices and parts work.
Sometimes life is painful. We all struggle and this doesn't mean you're defective. There's simply something that needs attention and care. Maybe you're overwhelmed with strong emotions, or feeling down or numbed out. Or you're experiencing painful, recurring thoughts that cause anxiety- part of you understands these thoughts aren't true, but they can really feel true. Whatever it is that you're going through, I'll listen with warmth and compassion as we work together to help you process difficult emotions, grief or traumas so that you can experience more joy, self-compassion, and presence in your life.
I'm trained in EMDR and use this frequently, while drawing from contemplative and somatic practices, mindfulness and meditative practices and parts work.
Sometimes life is painful. We all struggle and this doesn't mean you're defective. There's simply something that needs attention and care. Maybe you're overwhelmed with strong emotions, or feeling down or numbed out. Or you're experiencing painful, recurring thoughts that cause anxiety- part of you understands these thoughts aren't true, but they can really feel true. Whatever it is that you're going through, I'll listen with warmth and compassion as we work together to help you process difficult emotions, grief or traumas so that you can experience more joy, self-compassion, and presence in your life.
My primary approaches update EMDR with more safety around trauma.
You know what over 20 years experience teaches me? Life can get better, starting today. Even after trauma, loss, or hopelessness. Even if you're anxious, think you've lost your way—or are just ready for more! I combine the best of neuropsychology, energy work, and respect into a collaborative practice that brings your brightest self back with the skills to keep them. We'll attend to the body-mind-spirit and show you: you already have everything you need.
My primary approaches update EMDR with more safety around trauma.
You know what over 20 years experience teaches me? Life can get better, starting today. Even after trauma, loss, or hopelessness. Even if you're anxious, think you've lost your way—or are just ready for more! I combine the best of neuropsychology, energy work, and respect into a collaborative practice that brings your brightest self back with the skills to keep them. We'll attend to the body-mind-spirit and show you: you already have everything you need.
Edward Surridge
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LFMT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
My individual therapy specialties are in ( EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to heal past, free the present and advance to the future, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to complement EMDR with Emotional Regulation, Mindfulness (CBT), Distress Tolerance and Interpersonal Effectiveness.
I welcome you to heal and grow from past/present stressful situations in a professional, emphatic and validating therapeutic environment. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Wellness Counseling Inc. with 14 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I am English-Spanish bilingual. I am in network with Bluecross-Blueshield, Kaiser, Lifewise, Premera and Regence.
My individual therapy specialties are in ( EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to heal past, free the present and advance to the future, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) to complement EMDR with Emotional Regulation, Mindfulness (CBT), Distress Tolerance and Interpersonal Effectiveness.
I welcome you to heal and grow from past/present stressful situations in a professional, emphatic and validating therapeutic environment. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist at Wellness Counseling Inc. with 14 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families. I am English-Spanish bilingual. I am in network with Bluecross-Blueshield, Kaiser, Lifewise, Premera and Regence.
I work with children, teens, adults, and families, using an eclectic range of methods, including sandplay, EMDR, CBT, dynamic and problem-solving therapy, along with family therapy, depending on the needs of the person.
I see psychotherapy as a way to more fully empower and express one’s self in the world, whether as a child, teen, or adult, and, in the process, heal the various “symptoms” that stand in the way. It’s my belief and experience that that sense of self is, by nature, strong, clear, and caring, and yet can become problematic, in feelings and behavior, through the difficult experiences that life can bring. I see my role as helping to bring forth the experience of this successful and caring self, and, specifically to assist the client to heal the problematic traumas, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors, that interfere with this.
I work with children, teens, adults, and families, using an eclectic range of methods, including sandplay, EMDR, CBT, dynamic and problem-solving therapy, along with family therapy, depending on the needs of the person.
I see psychotherapy as a way to more fully empower and express one’s self in the world, whether as a child, teen, or adult, and, in the process, heal the various “symptoms” that stand in the way. It’s my belief and experience that that sense of self is, by nature, strong, clear, and caring, and yet can become problematic, in feelings and behavior, through the difficult experiences that life can bring. I see my role as helping to bring forth the experience of this successful and caring self, and, specifically to assist the client to heal the problematic traumas, attitudes, beliefs, and behaviors, that interfere with this.
Andrea Knutson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
Waitlist for new clients
Have you been to talk therapy for traumatic experiences in the past only to have symptoms resurface over time? Do you feel disconnected from others or live with ongoing shame and guilt? Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, or triggered by everyday situations resulting in confusion and fear? I offer powerful somatic and mindfulness-based interventions like EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, and Brainspotting, along with traditional therapy, to guide you as you make use of your own innate healing properties to experience relief and wellness. I work creatively with each client to incorporate the modalities that feel safe and most beneficial.
Have you been to talk therapy for traumatic experiences in the past only to have symptoms resurface over time? Do you feel disconnected from others or live with ongoing shame and guilt? Maybe you feel anxious, depressed, or triggered by everyday situations resulting in confusion and fear? I offer powerful somatic and mindfulness-based interventions like EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, and Brainspotting, along with traditional therapy, to guide you as you make use of your own innate healing properties to experience relief and wellness. I work creatively with each client to incorporate the modalities that feel safe and most beneficial.
Ember Therapy, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370
I balance my work between teaching practical coping strategies, interactive conversation and supportive reflection (“talk therapy”), and evidence-based clinical interventions such as CBT, CPT and EMDR.
My name is Sally (Sarah) Zehrung, and I am a dedicated and experienced therapist committed to guiding my clients through the process of recovery and renewed empowerment. With over a decade of clinical experience in trauma-informed care, my mission is to provide a safe and compassionate space for exploration and growth. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event, struggling with anxiety and depression, or navigating the unique challenges of chronic illness, I offer tailored support that addresses your individual needs.
I balance my work between teaching practical coping strategies, interactive conversation and supportive reflection (“talk therapy”), and evidence-based clinical interventions such as CBT, CPT and EMDR.
My name is Sally (Sarah) Zehrung, and I am a dedicated and experienced therapist committed to guiding my clients through the process of recovery and renewed empowerment. With over a decade of clinical experience in trauma-informed care, my mission is to provide a safe and compassionate space for exploration and growth. Whether you're dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event, struggling with anxiety and depression, or navigating the unique challenges of chronic illness, I offer tailored support that addresses your individual needs.
Shannon Rickert
Counselor, MS, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poulsbo, WA 98370 (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, 12-step processes and other modalities to break unhealthy or stuck patterns in life.
I focus my therapy work with adults and couples. I am certified in EMDR. In our sessions, expect to grow, thrive in relationships and learn to healthily navigate life circumstances. Working together, we’ll discover that our lived experiences have shaped how we think about the world. Using a trauma and attachment focused lens we use those experiences to encourage healing and growth.
I utilize EMDR, CBT, DBT, 12-step processes and other modalities to break unhealthy or stuck patterns in life.
I focus my therapy work with adults and couples. I am certified in EMDR. In our sessions, expect to grow, thrive in relationships and learn to healthily navigate life circumstances. Working together, we’ll discover that our lived experiences have shaped how we think about the world. Using a trauma and attachment focused lens we use those experiences to encourage healing and growth.
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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.