EMDR Therapists in Vancouver, WA

Photo of Molly Callahan, MS, LMHC, DDMHS, Counselor
Molly Callahan
Counselor, MS, LMHC, DDMHS
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661
In addition to talk and play therapy, I offer EMDR therapy.
Therapy is a collaborative process of self-discovery and personal growth. I focus on helping my clients through the development of greater self-understanding, self-awareness and self-acceptance. I treat a wide range of clinical issues and invite clients of diverse identities and backgrounds into my therapy practice. I specialize in working with complex and single incident trauma, sexual/relational trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, life transitions, identity exploration, and stress reduction. I have experience working with people across the lifespan, including children ages 3-12, adolescents, and adults in various stages of life.
In addition to talk and play therapy, I offer EMDR therapy.
Therapy is a collaborative process of self-discovery and personal growth. I focus on helping my clients through the development of greater self-understanding, self-awareness and self-acceptance. I treat a wide range of clinical issues and invite clients of diverse identities and backgrounds into my therapy practice. I specialize in working with complex and single incident trauma, sexual/relational trauma, anxiety and mood disorders, life transitions, identity exploration, and stress reduction. I have experience working with people across the lifespan, including children ages 3-12, adolescents, and adults in various stages of life.
(360) 226-7556 View (360) 226-7556
Photo of Hanna Maxwell, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Hanna Maxwell
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
I draw from a variety of trauma-informed approaches, including Story-Informed Trauma Therapy and EMDR.
Accepting new clients! Maybe you have a box in your head that's labeled "Past Stuff." You put in all the things you don't like thinking about: hurts from your childhood, the memories of things you did that play on a loop in your head if you're not careful. Lately, things have been leaking out. You feel less in control of your life, and the memories that used to stay in the box are escaping. Or maybe you know the box is there and have a sense that you should sort through it, but you're not sure about doing it alone.
I draw from a variety of trauma-informed approaches, including Story-Informed Trauma Therapy and EMDR.
Accepting new clients! Maybe you have a box in your head that's labeled "Past Stuff." You put in all the things you don't like thinking about: hurts from your childhood, the memories of things you did that play on a loop in your head if you're not careful. Lately, things have been leaking out. You feel less in control of your life, and the memories that used to stay in the box are escaping. Or maybe you know the box is there and have a sense that you should sort through it, but you're not sure about doing it alone.
(360) 732-8375 View (360) 732-8375
Photo of undefined - Alternative Behavioral Therapy, MA, LMHC, BCN, Counselor
Alternative Behavioral Therapy
Counselor, MA, LMHC, BCN
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98683
Alternative Behavioral Therapy specializes in the integration of talk therapy and Neurofeedback which is commonly used for the treatment and normalization of ADHD. We can incorporate this practice into PTSD, depression, sleep disorders, learning disabilities, anxiety, and much more. For those adept in this field, we practice Infra-low, SMR training, theta/beta ratio, and alpha-theta deep state processing as well as ISF (Infra-slow frequency training). For disorders resulting from trauma, EMDR may be incorporated as deemed appropriate. Other modality options may include Play Therapy or life coaching as well.
Alternative Behavioral Therapy specializes in the integration of talk therapy and Neurofeedback which is commonly used for the treatment and normalization of ADHD. We can incorporate this practice into PTSD, depression, sleep disorders, learning disabilities, anxiety, and much more. For those adept in this field, we practice Infra-low, SMR training, theta/beta ratio, and alpha-theta deep state processing as well as ISF (Infra-slow frequency training). For disorders resulting from trauma, EMDR may be incorporated as deemed appropriate. Other modality options may include Play Therapy or life coaching as well.
(855) 838-3053 View (855) 838-3053
Photo of Raquel Ramirez, LMHC, Counselor
Raquel Ramirez
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98660
Raquel is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and EMDR Therapist who provides a container, a safe and compassionate space, to explore the areas you seek to shift or expand. Her style is warm, intuitive, authentic, compassionate, and direct. Raquel naturally uses a trauma-informed lens, and leans towards a Psychodynamic, Attachment, and Person-Centered approach to get a big picture of you and your experience. She believes we are better able to shed layers and get into deeper truths when we feel seen, safe, and heard, from a supportive non judgemental person.
Raquel is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) and EMDR Therapist who provides a container, a safe and compassionate space, to explore the areas you seek to shift or expand. Her style is warm, intuitive, authentic, compassionate, and direct. Raquel naturally uses a trauma-informed lens, and leans towards a Psychodynamic, Attachment, and Person-Centered approach to get a big picture of you and your experience. She believes we are better able to shed layers and get into deeper truths when we feel seen, safe, and heard, from a supportive non judgemental person.
(360) 860-5480 View (360) 860-5480
Photo of Anita F S Gushurst, MA, CMHS, LMHC, Counselor
Anita F S Gushurst
Counselor, MA, CMHS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98663
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington and have been practicing since 2011. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and loss, relationship issues, parenting support, learning difficulties, and developmental disabilities. I have specialized training and experience working with children, teens, and families. In session I use an eclectic approach to therapy that is tailored to the needs of the individual client or family system in my office. I generally combine Attachment and Client-Centered Theory in practice and I frequently use CBT and EMDR in session.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Washington and have been practicing since 2011. I have experience working with individuals who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma and loss, relationship issues, parenting support, learning difficulties, and developmental disabilities. I have specialized training and experience working with children, teens, and families. In session I use an eclectic approach to therapy that is tailored to the needs of the individual client or family system in my office. I generally combine Attachment and Client-Centered Theory in practice and I frequently use CBT and EMDR in session.
(833) 873-1344 View (833) 873-1344
Photo of Craig Griffin, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Craig Griffin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98660
I treat mood disorders, depression, anxiety, Anger, OCD, trauma and addictions with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Image Transformation Therapy (ImTT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) I integrate faith in therapy and consider myself a Christian Counselor. I respect those that would not like faith to be a part of treatment, and I will not impose my faith or values upon you.
I treat mood disorders, depression, anxiety, Anger, OCD, trauma and addictions with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Image Transformation Therapy (ImTT) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) I integrate faith in therapy and consider myself a Christian Counselor. I respect those that would not like faith to be a part of treatment, and I will not impose my faith or values upon you.
(360) 523-7182 View (360) 523-7182
Photo of undefined - Joy Wilson, LMHC, Counselor
Joy Wilson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98684
The theoretical foundations that inform my counseling include Person Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR Therapy.
Our life stories do not always have the fairy tale endings that we hoped for, but we are not mere puppets. We are active agents in pursuit of meaningful moments and positive outcomes. I will help you identify your strengths and collaborate with you to find solutions to challenges in your story. I strive to provide a counseling relationship in which you can feel safe, heard, and supported as you explore or process whatever you choose.
The theoretical foundations that inform my counseling include Person Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR Therapy.
Our life stories do not always have the fairy tale endings that we hoped for, but we are not mere puppets. We are active agents in pursuit of meaningful moments and positive outcomes. I will help you identify your strengths and collaborate with you to find solutions to challenges in your story. I strive to provide a counseling relationship in which you can feel safe, heard, and supported as you explore or process whatever you choose.
(503) 850-8088 View (503) 850-8088
Photo of Lawrance McClung, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lawrance McClung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
EMDR trained and member of EMDRIA, I have extensive experience working with chronic and acute trauma and severe mental health conditions.
I provide an inclusive space for gender identity exploration and affirmation. All people deserve to embrace their inherent worth and dignity, I encourage and support people as they grow into living fully as their authentic self. EMDR trained, I assist people reprocess their trauma in an accepting and validating space to reduce symptoms of PTSD and regain confidence in their sense of safety. I I offer support and skills for individuals with mental health conditions including Bipolar I and psychosis for symptom reduction, stabilization and maintenance.
EMDR trained and member of EMDRIA, I have extensive experience working with chronic and acute trauma and severe mental health conditions.
I provide an inclusive space for gender identity exploration and affirmation. All people deserve to embrace their inherent worth and dignity, I encourage and support people as they grow into living fully as their authentic self. EMDR trained, I assist people reprocess their trauma in an accepting and validating space to reduce symptoms of PTSD and regain confidence in their sense of safety. I I offer support and skills for individuals with mental health conditions including Bipolar I and psychosis for symptom reduction, stabilization and maintenance.
(360) 745-1123 View (360) 745-1123
Photo of undefined - Northwest EMDR Therapy, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Northwest EMDR Therapy
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98662
If you feel blocked in traditional therapy, suffered a trauma such as an accident, physical or sexual abuse, child abuse, the death of a loved one, a pattern of unsuccessful relationships, if you suffer from anxiety, depression, brooding or worry, addiction, or a phobia then I believe that we can find you the power to heal through the use of EMDR and other therapeutic practices.
If you feel blocked in traditional therapy, suffered a trauma such as an accident, physical or sexual abuse, child abuse, the death of a loved one, a pattern of unsuccessful relationships, if you suffer from anxiety, depression, brooding or worry, addiction, or a phobia then I believe that we can find you the power to heal through the use of EMDR and other therapeutic practices.
(360) 233-8018 View (360) 233-8018
Photo of Angela M Rosson, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Angela M Rosson
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98684
When appropriate, I offer EMDR to help you process past traumas.
Are you stuck in survival mode and don't know how to get out? Living with overwhelm, depression, or struggling to move past old wounds can drain your energy and make it hard to find joy in life. If you've tried to make changes, but just can't seem to find your way out of the stuck places, I would love to offer you hope.
When appropriate, I offer EMDR to help you process past traumas.
Are you stuck in survival mode and don't know how to get out? Living with overwhelm, depression, or struggling to move past old wounds can drain your energy and make it hard to find joy in life. If you've tried to make changes, but just can't seem to find your way out of the stuck places, I would love to offer you hope.
(360) 356-8756 x704 View (360) 356-8756 x704
Photo of Rachel Staben, LPC, LMHC, Counselor
Rachel Staben
Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661  (Online Only)
I draw from many modalities of treatment but tend to favor "parts work" or Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and EMDR.
Are you ready to find a safe place to explore what is leading to the pain and concerns in your life, while feeling more connected to yourself along the way? Do you want real effective ways to transform depression, anxiety, and other experiences into internal spaciousness, calm, and joy? Do you feel that your past continues to affect your present feelings and beliefs about yourself and the world? Do you feel that something within you is getting in the way of having the relationships you desire? Do you simply feel alone in your suffering? I would love to join you on your journey to finding greater healing and wellness.
I draw from many modalities of treatment but tend to favor "parts work" or Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness and EMDR.
Are you ready to find a safe place to explore what is leading to the pain and concerns in your life, while feeling more connected to yourself along the way? Do you want real effective ways to transform depression, anxiety, and other experiences into internal spaciousness, calm, and joy? Do you feel that your past continues to affect your present feelings and beliefs about yourself and the world? Do you feel that something within you is getting in the way of having the relationships you desire? Do you simply feel alone in your suffering? I would love to join you on your journey to finding greater healing and wellness.
(360) 233-2780 View (360) 233-2780
Photo of undefined - NW Trauma Therapy, PLLC, PsyD, Counselor
NW Trauma Therapy, PLLC
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98685
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR, clinical hypnosis, internal family systems, and sensorimotor psychotherapies.
I have over thirty years of clinical experience helping clients find lasting change in their lives. My clinical focus is treating depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have specialized training in treating complex trauma including dissociative disorders. When working with trauma, the healing process can often be frightening and painful to address. Talk alone is not enough and can be retraumatizing in some cases. I use EMDR. My goal is to provide a professional, yet personal atmosphere where you can experience comfort and safety in exploring what is troubling you and find effective tools and skills that you can use in your life.
I am trained in EMDR, clinical hypnosis, internal family systems, and sensorimotor psychotherapies.
I have over thirty years of clinical experience helping clients find lasting change in their lives. My clinical focus is treating depression, anxiety, and trauma. I have specialized training in treating complex trauma including dissociative disorders. When working with trauma, the healing process can often be frightening and painful to address. Talk alone is not enough and can be retraumatizing in some cases. I use EMDR. My goal is to provide a professional, yet personal atmosphere where you can experience comfort and safety in exploring what is troubling you and find effective tools and skills that you can use in your life.
(360) 389-3946 View (360) 389-3946
Photo of Angela Giacalone, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angela Giacalone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98665
Waitlist for new clients
I offer EMDR treatment for individuals looking to overcome trauma.
In life, we learn to do what we have to in order to survive. Sometimes that means finding skills to escape trauma that don't end up serving us in the long run. I am passionate about helping individuals nourish their mind, body and spirit to overcome trauma, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, addictive behaviors, poor self-image and other mental health struggles. I believe in helping my clients feel empowered to trust their instincts and create coping skills, self love, and a life they don't want to escape from.
I offer EMDR treatment for individuals looking to overcome trauma.
In life, we learn to do what we have to in order to survive. Sometimes that means finding skills to escape trauma that don't end up serving us in the long run. I am passionate about helping individuals nourish their mind, body and spirit to overcome trauma, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, addictive behaviors, poor self-image and other mental health struggles. I believe in helping my clients feel empowered to trust their instincts and create coping skills, self love, and a life they don't want to escape from.
(360) 826-8785 View (360) 826-8785
Photo of Stephanie Womack, LMHCA, Counselor
Stephanie Womack
Counselor, LMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98661
I am trained in EMDR and Flash technique, which gives me a unique lens in which to view and support the healing process of trauma.
My focus is on supporting adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, C/PTSD, grief, shame, boundary issues, adjustment difficulties, and relationship conflicts. I enjoy offering a range of evidence-based interventions tailored to the needs of each individual providing a holistic, person-centered approach that allows me to support clients individually and within their family systems. These interventions include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness practices.
I am trained in EMDR and Flash technique, which gives me a unique lens in which to view and support the healing process of trauma.
My focus is on supporting adults experiencing a variety of challenges, including depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, C/PTSD, grief, shame, boundary issues, adjustment difficulties, and relationship conflicts. I enjoy offering a range of evidence-based interventions tailored to the needs of each individual providing a holistic, person-centered approach that allows me to support clients individually and within their family systems. These interventions include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Attachment Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and mindfulness practices.
(360) 614-4927 x109 View (360) 614-4927 x109
Photo of Elisa Fu, MSW, LICSW, MHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elisa Fu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, MHP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98665  (Online Only)
Elisa Fu is a fully trained EMDR and FLASH clinician and has been in the mental health and helping fields for the past ten years with a focus in trauma.
Feeling out of control and at the mercy of avoiding your triggers- or just avoiding most of life in general? Caught in ongoing patterns and spirals? Doing "that talk therapy thing" for years and seeing no results and kind of actually getting more triggered by talking about it? Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is considered a comprehensive treatment for people experiencing present triggers as a result from traumatic events. EMDR is an eight-phase treatment designed to transform- not just close the wounds created by trauma. With a fully trained EMDR clinician, results come from YOUR process and interpretation.
Elisa Fu is a fully trained EMDR and FLASH clinician and has been in the mental health and helping fields for the past ten years with a focus in trauma.
Feeling out of control and at the mercy of avoiding your triggers- or just avoiding most of life in general? Caught in ongoing patterns and spirals? Doing "that talk therapy thing" for years and seeing no results and kind of actually getting more triggered by talking about it? Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is considered a comprehensive treatment for people experiencing present triggers as a result from traumatic events. EMDR is an eight-phase treatment designed to transform- not just close the wounds created by trauma. With a fully trained EMDR clinician, results come from YOUR process and interpretation.
(360) 367-4806 View (360) 367-4806
Photo of Matthew Martin, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Matthew Martin
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vancouver, WA 98685
My toolbox includes research-proven techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR, particularly beneficial for first responders grappling with second-hand trauma.
Are you seeking peace-of-mind, purpose, and fulfillment in life? Whether you're grappling with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, or relationship issues, I'm here to provide understanding and assistance tailored to your unique needs. My style is genuine, good-humored, and deeply empathetic, creating a supportive environment where you can explore your challenges without judgment. Many clients, even without a specific diagnosis, find solace and support in my approach, whether they seek behavioral change, decision-making assistance, or help with life transitions.
My toolbox includes research-proven techniques like cognitive-behavioral therapy and EMDR, particularly beneficial for first responders grappling with second-hand trauma.
Are you seeking peace-of-mind, purpose, and fulfillment in life? Whether you're grappling with trauma, depression, anxiety, anger management, or relationship issues, I'm here to provide understanding and assistance tailored to your unique needs. My style is genuine, good-humored, and deeply empathetic, creating a supportive environment where you can explore your challenges without judgment. Many clients, even without a specific diagnosis, find solace and support in my approach, whether they seek behavioral change, decision-making assistance, or help with life transitions.
(360) 868-8305 View (360) 868-8305
Photo of Semi Grey (Accepting New Clients), LMHCA, SUDP, MS, Counselor
Semi Grey (Accepting New Clients)
Counselor, LMHCA, SUDP, MS
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660
I utilize somatic, EMDR, and Gestalt modalities, amongst others.
I help people who desire satisfying relationships and want to live an authentic, peaceful, and fulfilling existence. Perhaps you are experiencing anxiety, relationship conflicts, and frustration with patterns that continue to be roadblocks to your goals and emotional wellbeing. From systemic trauma, generational trauma, substance use, to mental health concerns, it can feel like you are fighting a losing battle. You don’t have to hold that alone. I'm here to support you on your journey towards a more fulfilling life, deeper connections, and greater self-confidence.
I utilize somatic, EMDR, and Gestalt modalities, amongst others.
I help people who desire satisfying relationships and want to live an authentic, peaceful, and fulfilling existence. Perhaps you are experiencing anxiety, relationship conflicts, and frustration with patterns that continue to be roadblocks to your goals and emotional wellbeing. From systemic trauma, generational trauma, substance use, to mental health concerns, it can feel like you are fighting a losing battle. You don’t have to hold that alone. I'm here to support you on your journey towards a more fulfilling life, deeper connections, and greater self-confidence.
(360) 233-8149 View (360) 233-8149
Photo of undefined - Veteran & First Responder Mental Health, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Veteran & First Responder Mental Health
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98663
My name is Lindsey Torres and I specialize in counseling and training for military veterans, first responders and their spouses. Located in Vancouver Washington, with telehealth availability across Washington state. I work with many uniform related concerns to include military war trauma, law enforcement critical incidents (OIS, LODD's), career stress management, relationship issues, work life balance, PCS adjustment, depression and anxiety. EMDR and Prolonged Exposure therapy offered in person. I am in the Kaiser network.
My name is Lindsey Torres and I specialize in counseling and training for military veterans, first responders and their spouses. Located in Vancouver Washington, with telehealth availability across Washington state. I work with many uniform related concerns to include military war trauma, law enforcement critical incidents (OIS, LODD's), career stress management, relationship issues, work life balance, PCS adjustment, depression and anxiety. EMDR and Prolonged Exposure therapy offered in person. I am in the Kaiser network.
(360) 773-7760 View (360) 773-7760
Photo of Naomi Schwendemann, LICSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Naomi Schwendemann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98661
I have experience with EMDR, IFS, and various other modalities that all work to attune to your unique needs in order to help you both identify and reach your therapeutic goals.
I have extensive practice with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, attachment trauma, and stress related to major life changes.
I have experience with EMDR, IFS, and various other modalities that all work to attune to your unique needs in order to help you both identify and reach your therapeutic goals.
I have extensive practice with clients experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, attachment trauma, and stress related to major life changes.
(360) 680-1302 View (360) 680-1302
Photo of Todd Gerson, MSW, LMHC, LIACSW, MHP, CMHS, Counselor
Todd Gerson
Counselor, MSW, LMHC, LIACSW, MHP, CMHS
Verified Verified
Vancouver, WA 98660  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive knowledge, training, and experience in providing a multitude of evidence based interventions including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, trauma-informed interventions, and family therapy interventions.
There is no one size fits all solution when it comes to therapy. In my practice, I tailor therapy to each individual’s needs by integrating relevant elements of evidence based approaches. I will be there to support and empower you as overcome you challenges and fulfill significant life goals. Seeing my clients overcome personal challenges is one of the most rewarding feeling I’ve known.
I have extensive knowledge, training, and experience in providing a multitude of evidence based interventions including, but not limited to, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, EMDR, trauma-informed interventions, and family therapy interventions.
There is no one size fits all solution when it comes to therapy. In my practice, I tailor therapy to each individual’s needs by integrating relevant elements of evidence based approaches. I will be there to support and empower you as overcome you challenges and fulfill significant life goals. Seeing my clients overcome personal challenges is one of the most rewarding feeling I’ve known.
(206) 260-3320 View (206) 260-3320
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.