EMDR Therapists in Wallingford, Seattle, WA

Photo of Emma Kristina Johnson, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Emma Kristina Johnson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
I am trained in a variety of evidence-based treatments which I combine and adapt to best meet the unique needs of each client, including but not limited to Perinatal EMDR, CBT, and Child Parent Psychotherapy.
I specialize in issues of early childhood (ages 0-5) and perinatal (pregnancy and postpartum) mental health, working with young children and their parents who are in need of support. Parenting is a big life transition and unfortunately rarely goes as planned. Birth trauma, illness, separation or loss of a caregiver or parent, interpersonal conflict, accidents, developmental delays such as ASD or FASD and other stressors can further complicate the already very difficult job of being a parent. That's where I come in! I'm here to help you and your child connect and heal through the unexpected challenges that life has thrown your way.
I am trained in a variety of evidence-based treatments which I combine and adapt to best meet the unique needs of each client, including but not limited to Perinatal EMDR, CBT, and Child Parent Psychotherapy.
I specialize in issues of early childhood (ages 0-5) and perinatal (pregnancy and postpartum) mental health, working with young children and their parents who are in need of support. Parenting is a big life transition and unfortunately rarely goes as planned. Birth trauma, illness, separation or loss of a caregiver or parent, interpersonal conflict, accidents, developmental delays such as ASD or FASD and other stressors can further complicate the already very difficult job of being a parent. That's where I come in! I'm here to help you and your child connect and heal through the unexpected challenges that life has thrown your way.
(503) 208-6364 View (503) 208-6364
Photo of Carey DeMartini, LMHC, ATR-BC, RYT 500, PMH-C, Counselor
Carey DeMartini
Counselor, LMHC, ATR-BC, RYT 500, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
I have aditional training in the area of Perinatal Mental Health as well as EMDR and DBT.
I am not currently accepting new clients. With over 20 years of experience offering psychotherapy from Seattle, Washington, I am honored to work with adults who live in Washington state who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, or major life transitions, including transition to parenting. My work is guided by the principles of non-judgment, deep listening, and respect. I believe in working collaboratively towards the changes you want to see in your life. I focus not only on the challenges you are facing, but also your strengths. You can feel better.
I have aditional training in the area of Perinatal Mental Health as well as EMDR and DBT.
I am not currently accepting new clients. With over 20 years of experience offering psychotherapy from Seattle, Washington, I am honored to work with adults who live in Washington state who are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief and loss, trauma, or major life transitions, including transition to parenting. My work is guided by the principles of non-judgment, deep listening, and respect. I believe in working collaboratively towards the changes you want to see in your life. I focus not only on the challenges you are facing, but also your strengths. You can feel better.
(206) 202-7152 View (206) 202-7152
Photo of Amie Shipley, MSW, LMHC
Amie Shipley
MSW, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
I frequently utilize EMDR and other somatic approaches in my work.
I see therapy as an opportunity to work toward growth, self-discovery, and healing. I believe that people come to me not only with where they may be stuck or hurting, but also with incredible strengths and abilities. Through warmth, collaboration, and direct communication I hope to help uncover patterns that are getting in the way of living well. I use an experiential, emotion + body focused approach along with art therapy and practical tools to develop new ways of experiencing and approaching the hard stuff in life.
I frequently utilize EMDR and other somatic approaches in my work.
I see therapy as an opportunity to work toward growth, self-discovery, and healing. I believe that people come to me not only with where they may be stuck or hurting, but also with incredible strengths and abilities. Through warmth, collaboration, and direct communication I hope to help uncover patterns that are getting in the way of living well. I use an experiential, emotion + body focused approach along with art therapy and practical tools to develop new ways of experiencing and approaching the hard stuff in life.
(425) 310-4095 View (425) 310-4095
Photo of Anthony Mucci, LMHC, Counselor
Anthony Mucci
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Anthony Mucci. I am passionate about helping and serving others! I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, chronic pain, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and utilize EMDR therapy along with CBT/DBT/Existential therapy.
Hi, my name is Anthony Mucci. I am passionate about helping and serving others! I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, chronic pain, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment and utilize EMDR therapy along with CBT/DBT/Existential therapy.
(509) 581-4282 View (509) 581-4282
Photo of Nicole Swedberg, EdD, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Nicole Swedberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, EdD, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98105
My tools and training include Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, Gottman Method, the Developmental Model from the Couple’s Institute, DBT, CAMS-Care Suicide Prevention, and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions.
I work with courageous humans who are interested in exploring ways of healing from and growing through difficult life experiences. When a tree is injured, it doesn’t just ignore the trauma, but it balances short-term healing with a longer journey of change and adaptation. Whether you are searching for a clearer sense of your own identity, processing a loss, or trying to make your relationship work, my approach is to help you feel more stable and secure, then walk alongside you as you find your sky and grow towards it.
My tools and training include Internal Family Systems Therapy, EMDR, Gottman Method, the Developmental Model from the Couple’s Institute, DBT, CAMS-Care Suicide Prevention, and Supportive Parenting for Anxious Childhood Emotions.
I work with courageous humans who are interested in exploring ways of healing from and growing through difficult life experiences. When a tree is injured, it doesn’t just ignore the trauma, but it balances short-term healing with a longer journey of change and adaptation. Whether you are searching for a clearer sense of your own identity, processing a loss, or trying to make your relationship work, my approach is to help you feel more stable and secure, then walk alongside you as you find your sky and grow towards it.
(425) 494-5468 View (425) 494-5468
Photo of Aneta Merlino, MS, LMFTA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Aneta Merlino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFTA
Verified Verified
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
I am passionate about helping couples and families reconnect. I also support individuals (adults, teenagers, and kids) experiencing anxiety, depression and a feeling of disconnection from self and others. I can provide Trauma-Informed care using EMDR as well as other modalities. When working with me you will be safe to show up as you are. With honesty leading, I will guide us to understand what is preventing you from experiencing the life and relationships you yearn for. Our work is intended to help you move towards practicing new ways of being and releasing coping strategies that no longer serve.
I am passionate about helping couples and families reconnect. I also support individuals (adults, teenagers, and kids) experiencing anxiety, depression and a feeling of disconnection from self and others. I can provide Trauma-Informed care using EMDR as well as other modalities. When working with me you will be safe to show up as you are. With honesty leading, I will guide us to understand what is preventing you from experiencing the life and relationships you yearn for. Our work is intended to help you move towards practicing new ways of being and releasing coping strategies that no longer serve.
(253) 215-2711 View (253) 215-2711
Photo of David Webb, MA, LMHC, Counselor
David Webb
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
In addition to existential humanistic psychotherapy, I have training in mindfulness, attachment based therapy, EMDR, somatic experiencing, and expressive arts therapies.
I believe that all mental anguish begins with loneliness and disconnection. This is why my approach to psychotherapy is grounded fundamentally in the relationship that we build together. Together we will move through suffering, creatively identifying new possibilities and ways of experiencing life. We will find hope and build your capacity to love both yourself and others more fully. From within this relationship, you will be able to safely try new things, to see what works for you, to ultimately move forward in your life with more ease. I like the expression "human flourishing" to describe this process.
In addition to existential humanistic psychotherapy, I have training in mindfulness, attachment based therapy, EMDR, somatic experiencing, and expressive arts therapies.
I believe that all mental anguish begins with loneliness and disconnection. This is why my approach to psychotherapy is grounded fundamentally in the relationship that we build together. Together we will move through suffering, creatively identifying new possibilities and ways of experiencing life. We will find hope and build your capacity to love both yourself and others more fully. From within this relationship, you will be able to safely try new things, to see what works for you, to ultimately move forward in your life with more ease. I like the expression "human flourishing" to describe this process.
(206) 203-9261 View (206) 203-9261
Photo of Katie McKenna, MS, CN, LMHC, Counselor
Katie McKenna
Counselor, MS, CN, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, master’s level Nutritionist and EMDR practitioner. I offer integrative therapy for eating disorders, food and body related issues, anxiety and trauma. Integrative therapy is a holistic approach to counseling that very much includes the body, beyond traditional talk therapy. It is a unique, blended approach that fosters change on all levels: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. I use EMDR as an embodied approach to re-wire new habits and let go of guilt, shame, fear and negative subconscious beliefs.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, master’s level Nutritionist and EMDR practitioner. I offer integrative therapy for eating disorders, food and body related issues, anxiety and trauma. Integrative therapy is a holistic approach to counseling that very much includes the body, beyond traditional talk therapy. It is a unique, blended approach that fosters change on all levels: physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. I use EMDR as an embodied approach to re-wire new habits and let go of guilt, shame, fear and negative subconscious beliefs.
(425) 358-4791 View (425) 358-4791
Photo of Elizabeth Marshall Therapy For Teens Adults And Families - Elizabeth Marshall, BSW, MFT, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Elizabeth Marshall
Counselor, BSW, MFT, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
I found EMDR.
Welcome! You've taken the first step. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness, cPTSD, or trauma. Are you feeling frozen or stuck? My approach is person centered and tailored to your unique needs and goals. Together, we will work collaboratively to identify root causes and extinguish pain. I'll teach you skills to decrease and overcome the triggers. I'm skilled in EMDR, Flash, Brainspotting, DBT, CBT, Inner child work. We will increase your emotional regulation and feelings of safety. I also work with parents, kids, and teens. Online Only. I've been trained in EMDR for Long-Haulers also. You Deserve To Heal!
I found EMDR.
Welcome! You've taken the first step. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, loneliness, cPTSD, or trauma. Are you feeling frozen or stuck? My approach is person centered and tailored to your unique needs and goals. Together, we will work collaboratively to identify root causes and extinguish pain. I'll teach you skills to decrease and overcome the triggers. I'm skilled in EMDR, Flash, Brainspotting, DBT, CBT, Inner child work. We will increase your emotional regulation and feelings of safety. I also work with parents, kids, and teens. Online Only. I've been trained in EMDR for Long-Haulers also. You Deserve To Heal!
(253) 262-0294 View (253) 262-0294
Photo of Anna Sposeto, MS, LMHC, CADC, NCC, Counselor
Anna Sposeto
Counselor, MS, LMHC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
I utilize trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT), eye movement, desensitization, and reprocessing ( EMDR), and body work coaching.
I treat a variety of clients who live in Iowa or Washington. My focus is primarily on 18-40-year-olds who have a desire to change their patterns and are willing to be an active participant in their healing journey. If you are wanting to work on your relationship with self and others, explore attachment, childhood dynamics, and do the hard work then we will likely be a good fit!
I utilize trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TFCBT), eye movement, desensitization, and reprocessing ( EMDR), and body work coaching.
I treat a variety of clients who live in Iowa or Washington. My focus is primarily on 18-40-year-olds who have a desire to change their patterns and are willing to be an active participant in their healing journey. If you are wanting to work on your relationship with self and others, explore attachment, childhood dynamics, and do the hard work then we will likely be a good fit!
(515) 604-7838 View (515) 604-7838
Photo of Michal Goldring Keidar, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michal Goldring Keidar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
The heart of my work as a therapist is helping my clients transform their relationships with others as well as with themselves to a healthy, empowering and meaningful ones. I've been in practice over 15 years, providing therapy to individuals, couples families and groups. I'm informed by research based therapy methods including anti oppressive psychodynamic therapy, CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP), narrative therapy, attachment theory and EMDR. I'm a Gottman educator in the 'Bringing Baby Home' (BBH) to expecting and new parents and The 7 Principles Program for couples'.
The heart of my work as a therapist is helping my clients transform their relationships with others as well as with themselves to a healthy, empowering and meaningful ones. I've been in practice over 15 years, providing therapy to individuals, couples families and groups. I'm informed by research based therapy methods including anti oppressive psychodynamic therapy, CBT, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Functional Analytic Psychotherapy (FAP), narrative therapy, attachment theory and EMDR. I'm a Gottman educator in the 'Bringing Baby Home' (BBH) to expecting and new parents and The 7 Principles Program for couples'.
(206) 539-0484 View (206) 539-0484
Photo of Dwayne Robert Stone, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Dwayne Robert Stone
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
I have been in the behavioral health field for 35 years. I have experience as a counselor, case manager, supervisor in community mental health programs in Oregon, Missouri and Washington. I developed and taught a post-divorce and parenting program. I have spoken to thousands of individuals throughout my career via workshops and seminars on parenting, relationships, and crisis intervention. I have taught Mental Health First Aid courses in Washington and in Hawaii. I believe in the Japanese proverb “Fall seven times, Stand up eight” and strive to keep you standing through difficult situations.
I have been in the behavioral health field for 35 years. I have experience as a counselor, case manager, supervisor in community mental health programs in Oregon, Missouri and Washington. I developed and taught a post-divorce and parenting program. I have spoken to thousands of individuals throughout my career via workshops and seminars on parenting, relationships, and crisis intervention. I have taught Mental Health First Aid courses in Washington and in Hawaii. I believe in the Japanese proverb “Fall seven times, Stand up eight” and strive to keep you standing through difficult situations.
(206) 455-6689 View (206) 455-6689
Photo of Alexander Shappie, PhD, Psychologist
Alexander Shappie
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
Are you feeling stuck? Can’t break out of the cycle? Or maybe you recently experienced a loss, and you’d like help picking up the pieces to figure out what happened. Despite knowing that certain behaviors aren’t working anymore, it may be very difficult to change or interrupt painful, destructive patterns that seem to hijack our lives and relationships. This can leave folks feeling frustrated, helpless, hopeless, or just broken. Therapy can provide you with the experiences, tools, and insight to make meaningful changes in your life, in your relationships, and promote personal growth.
Are you feeling stuck? Can’t break out of the cycle? Or maybe you recently experienced a loss, and you’d like help picking up the pieces to figure out what happened. Despite knowing that certain behaviors aren’t working anymore, it may be very difficult to change or interrupt painful, destructive patterns that seem to hijack our lives and relationships. This can leave folks feeling frustrated, helpless, hopeless, or just broken. Therapy can provide you with the experiences, tools, and insight to make meaningful changes in your life, in your relationships, and promote personal growth.
(206) 557-6610 View (206) 557-6610
Photo of Jenelle Strine | Psychotherapist, MA, LMHC, SUDP, LPC
Jenelle Strine | Psychotherapist
MA, LMHC, SUDP, LPC
Verified Verified
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103  (Online Only)
As your therapist, I will partner with you to build a trusting relationship that fosters healing, personal growth, and positive life change. My relational approach turns our counseling relationship into a dynamic journey where we’ll create a clear vision for your life, set meaningful goals, and navigate the journey toward both personal growth. I truly believe in the power of collaboration and I'm here to help you explore what you need most to make your progress sustainable while overcoming any challenges you may be facing. With empathy at the heart of our work, I want you to feel understood and empowered every step of the way.
As your therapist, I will partner with you to build a trusting relationship that fosters healing, personal growth, and positive life change. My relational approach turns our counseling relationship into a dynamic journey where we’ll create a clear vision for your life, set meaningful goals, and navigate the journey toward both personal growth. I truly believe in the power of collaboration and I'm here to help you explore what you need most to make your progress sustainable while overcoming any challenges you may be facing. With empathy at the heart of our work, I want you to feel understood and empowered every step of the way.
(206) 312-8204 View (206) 312-8204
Photo of Yvette Stone, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Yvette Stone
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
I believe we are all created for connection in relationship, and that all relationships have the potential to bring great joy and great struggle. Through our therapeutic relationship, by addressing the concerns that bring you to therapy, a process occurs that produces healing, transformation, and growth. My approach to counseling varies, but is rooted in trauma-informed, relational psychotherapy, focusing on key attachment relationships, and exploring the moments, social and cultural constructs, and ideologies that have shaped you.
I believe we are all created for connection in relationship, and that all relationships have the potential to bring great joy and great struggle. Through our therapeutic relationship, by addressing the concerns that bring you to therapy, a process occurs that produces healing, transformation, and growth. My approach to counseling varies, but is rooted in trauma-informed, relational psychotherapy, focusing on key attachment relationships, and exploring the moments, social and cultural constructs, and ideologies that have shaped you.
(206) 309-9152 View (206) 309-9152
Photo of Katy Leach, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Katy Leach
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
You've already made the most important step toward healing by exercising the self-reflection and openness it takes to start planning your therapy. It is important that you find a relationship that will support you in your next steps. While there are many practitioners who have the qualifications to be therapists, you deserve to find the chemistry and skills that fit your needs. The foundation of the work you do with a therapist will be the relationship and trust you build with them. You deserve to work with someone who fosters your growth and safet.
You've already made the most important step toward healing by exercising the self-reflection and openness it takes to start planning your therapy. It is important that you find a relationship that will support you in your next steps. While there are many practitioners who have the qualifications to be therapists, you deserve to find the chemistry and skills that fit your needs. The foundation of the work you do with a therapist will be the relationship and trust you build with them. You deserve to work with someone who fosters your growth and safet.
(206) 207-8387 View (206) 207-8387
Photo of Mikaela Harf, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mikaela Harf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
You may be ready to make a change, yet are unsure of which way to move or feel too frozen to take a step. Perhaps it is overwhelming to inhabit your body or revisit the past, you fear that you’ll be flooded by sensations or memories. Maybe a part of you wants to connect with others and another part worries that you'll just be hurt again. Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, I believe that you have the innate capacity for healing within you. Therapy is a way to cultivate the right conditions for healing seeds to bloom. I aim to create a warm and accepting space - one that can foster insight, growth, belonging, and even joy.
You may be ready to make a change, yet are unsure of which way to move or feel too frozen to take a step. Perhaps it is overwhelming to inhabit your body or revisit the past, you fear that you’ll be flooded by sensations or memories. Maybe a part of you wants to connect with others and another part worries that you'll just be hurt again. Whatever your reason for seeking therapy, I believe that you have the innate capacity for healing within you. Therapy is a way to cultivate the right conditions for healing seeds to bloom. I aim to create a warm and accepting space - one that can foster insight, growth, belonging, and even joy.
(206) 800-6989 View (206) 800-6989
Photo of Tracey Alta, MSW , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tracey Alta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW , LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
Waitlist for new clients
I love my work. I love to hear people’s stories about what makes them feel alive and what inspires them. I love helping people to feel more connected to their environment and trusting of themselves in the process. What fascinates me about the healing process in psychotherapy is reflecting upon the vulnerable, groundless mystery of the human journey and the endless revelations of the unguarded heart. The focus of my work is on the unique story and experience of each individual. My approach can differ in some ways from standard talk therapy.
I love my work. I love to hear people’s stories about what makes them feel alive and what inspires them. I love helping people to feel more connected to their environment and trusting of themselves in the process. What fascinates me about the healing process in psychotherapy is reflecting upon the vulnerable, groundless mystery of the human journey and the endless revelations of the unguarded heart. The focus of my work is on the unique story and experience of each individual. My approach can differ in some ways from standard talk therapy.
(425) 448-8252 View (425) 448-8252
Photo of Shira Olsen - Pacific Behavioral Healthcare, PhD, CST, EMDR, CCPS, CSAT, Psychologist
Pacific Behavioral Healthcare
Psychologist, PhD, CST, EMDR, CCPS, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
Is your relationship struggling to recover after infidelity? Does your partner's sexual addiction have you considering divorce? Is sex a problem in your relationship? Betrayal is a deeply traumatic experience that causes a huge rupture that is difficult to heal on you own. You may be questioning your entire relationship and wonder if healing is even possible. We provide a safe space for you to intimately share, receive empathy, and develop a plan to rebuild trust through consistent actions and honesty. It is possible to heal and feel close again. Let us guide you through the recovery process towards a more meaningful relationship.
Is your relationship struggling to recover after infidelity? Does your partner's sexual addiction have you considering divorce? Is sex a problem in your relationship? Betrayal is a deeply traumatic experience that causes a huge rupture that is difficult to heal on you own. You may be questioning your entire relationship and wonder if healing is even possible. We provide a safe space for you to intimately share, receive empathy, and develop a plan to rebuild trust through consistent actions and honesty. It is possible to heal and feel close again. Let us guide you through the recovery process towards a more meaningful relationship.
(425) 214-9123 View (425) 214-9123
Photo of Justin Pere, LMHC, CST, CGT, Counselor
Justin Pere
Counselor, LMHC, CST, CGT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wallingford, Seattle, WA 98103
Since 2010, our team of therapists have helped thousands of couples and individuals, with our specialties being Relationship Counseling, Couples Therapy, Marriage Counseling, Premarital, Sex Therapy, and Intimacy Counseling. If you are a couple, our website (ClarityCounselingSeattle.com) describes how we can help you with communication, conflict, and deepening emotional & sexual intimacy. If you're an individual looking to feel less stress, less worry, less depression & anxiety, and you're wanting to experience more joy, contentment, and peace within yourself, we could be a great fit. As the owner, I adore this group of therapists!
Since 2010, our team of therapists have helped thousands of couples and individuals, with our specialties being Relationship Counseling, Couples Therapy, Marriage Counseling, Premarital, Sex Therapy, and Intimacy Counseling. If you are a couple, our website (ClarityCounselingSeattle.com) describes how we can help you with communication, conflict, and deepening emotional & sexual intimacy. If you're an individual looking to feel less stress, less worry, less depression & anxiety, and you're wanting to experience more joy, contentment, and peace within yourself, we could be a great fit. As the owner, I adore this group of therapists!
(206) 855-3934 View (206) 855-3934
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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.