EMDR Therapists in West Allis, WI

Photo of Melissa Nelson, LCSW, SAC, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Nelson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SAC, CSAC
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227
Drawing on CBT, DBT and EMDR to heal the impact of your trauma, I can help you gain control of distressing emotions and move forward.
You’re the one people go to for support because you seem like you have it all together. Underneath, however, is a different story. You’re barely hanging on. Everyday stressors are overwhelming you. Feeling depressed, hopeless, and anxious are your new norms. You may feel uncomfortable in your own skin and use substances or restrictions as a way to cope. You may feel fearful and stuck because of a traumatic experience. Humans are naturally resilient, but in an attempt to adapt we can fall into unhealthy cycles that keep us from realizing our potential.
Drawing on CBT, DBT and EMDR to heal the impact of your trauma, I can help you gain control of distressing emotions and move forward.
You’re the one people go to for support because you seem like you have it all together. Underneath, however, is a different story. You’re barely hanging on. Everyday stressors are overwhelming you. Feeling depressed, hopeless, and anxious are your new norms. You may feel uncomfortable in your own skin and use substances or restrictions as a way to cope. You may feel fearful and stuck because of a traumatic experience. Humans are naturally resilient, but in an attempt to adapt we can fall into unhealthy cycles that keep us from realizing our potential.
(262) 419-3216 View (262) 419-3216
Photo of Anna Godiali, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Godiali
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227
If you feel down, stuck, or don't know how to move forward, it can help to find professional support—someone in your corner, to help you get your bearings again and find your way through the tough times. As a solution-focused and strengths-based therapist, I work with clients to understand their past, clarify their present, and support their goals moving forward, even through life’s hardest situations. I work with clients experiencing the effects of trauma using EMDR and mindfulness, targeting and reworking core beliefs to move individuals and couples forward in their relationships with themselves and others.
If you feel down, stuck, or don't know how to move forward, it can help to find professional support—someone in your corner, to help you get your bearings again and find your way through the tough times. As a solution-focused and strengths-based therapist, I work with clients to understand their past, clarify their present, and support their goals moving forward, even through life’s hardest situations. I work with clients experiencing the effects of trauma using EMDR and mindfulness, targeting and reworking core beliefs to move individuals and couples forward in their relationships with themselves and others.
(262) 384-5849 View (262) 384-5849
Photo of Carol Seydewitz, MS, LPC, ATR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol Seydewitz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, ATR
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227
I am certified with the International Association of EMDR (EMDRIA).
I believe everyone has all that is needed to feel better, inside of the them. I help my clients make these discoveries. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist and have been helping my clients restore hope and momentum in their lives for more than sixteen years. I address issues of trauma, anxiety and mood in adults and first responders. I have completed training with the NVFC National Volunteer Fire Council (Fire . EMS. Rescue). See new directory June 2020 at www.nvfc.org.
I am certified with the International Association of EMDR (EMDRIA).
I believe everyone has all that is needed to feel better, inside of the them. I help my clients make these discoveries. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Art Therapist and have been helping my clients restore hope and momentum in their lives for more than sixteen years. I address issues of trauma, anxiety and mood in adults and first responders. I have completed training with the NVFC National Volunteer Fire Council (Fire . EMS. Rescue). See new directory June 2020 at www.nvfc.org.
(262) 671-3120 View (262) 671-3120
Photo of Taña Rodriguez-Buck, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taña Rodriguez-Buck
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227
I use techniques from models such as, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Family Therapy.
In life we are faced with many challenges. Sometimes this happens when it is least expected. This can lead to hopelessness, doubt, worry, sadness, anger, and many other unwanted feelings and emotions. The good news is, despite the challenges you may be experiencing, you have the ability to make a change. It can be difficult to navigate life situations. Finding the right support through these difficult times is an important first step. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, stress management, anger management, and relationship and family issues.
I use techniques from models such as, EMDR, CBT, DBT, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Family Therapy.
In life we are faced with many challenges. Sometimes this happens when it is least expected. This can lead to hopelessness, doubt, worry, sadness, anger, and many other unwanted feelings and emotions. The good news is, despite the challenges you may be experiencing, you have the ability to make a change. It can be difficult to navigate life situations. Finding the right support through these difficult times is an important first step. I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety, depression, adjustment disorders, stress management, anger management, and relationship and family issues.
(414) 301-6544 View (414) 301-6544
Photo of Anni Cox - Anni Cox Couseling Services, LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anni Cox Couseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227
Ever feel like everyday is a struggle? Sometimes reaching out for help is the most difficult step. That is why it is so important to offer caring, compassionate solutions. I work with children, individuals, couples and families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, child and adolescent issues, grief and loss, transitional times in life such as job loss or divorce. My therapy is client-centered and insight orientated. I am also EMDR certified. I will answer your calls promptly and offer consultations.
Ever feel like everyday is a struggle? Sometimes reaching out for help is the most difficult step. That is why it is so important to offer caring, compassionate solutions. I work with children, individuals, couples and families. I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, child and adolescent issues, grief and loss, transitional times in life such as job loss or divorce. My therapy is client-centered and insight orientated. I am also EMDR certified. I will answer your calls promptly and offer consultations.
(262) 375-1116 View (262) 375-1116
Photo of Denis Ian Jackson, PhD, Psychologist
Denis Ian Jackson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53214
Treatment modalities include hypnosis, EMDR and Flash for trauma work, cognitive-behavior therapy, guided imagery, imagery rescripting, emotionally-focused family therapy, intrafamily systems therapy.
I have thirty years of experience as a professional counselor and have been a psychologist since 1996. I graduated in 1993 from Marquette University with a doctorate in psychology. I have experience with diverse populations: developmental disabilities, geriatric, ADHD, history of trauma, attachment-focused therapy for parents, teens, adults, LGBT persons, and trauma victims. Certified therapy training in hypnosis (diplomate), EMDR, cognitive-behavior therapy, American board of vocational experts (past diplomate).
Treatment modalities include hypnosis, EMDR and Flash for trauma work, cognitive-behavior therapy, guided imagery, imagery rescripting, emotionally-focused family therapy, intrafamily systems therapy.
I have thirty years of experience as a professional counselor and have been a psychologist since 1996. I graduated in 1993 from Marquette University with a doctorate in psychology. I have experience with diverse populations: developmental disabilities, geriatric, ADHD, history of trauma, attachment-focused therapy for parents, teens, adults, LGBT persons, and trauma victims. Certified therapy training in hypnosis (diplomate), EMDR, cognitive-behavior therapy, American board of vocational experts (past diplomate).
(414) 369-2924 View (414) 369-2924
Photo of Heather Hart Kennedy, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Hart Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53214
I use a combination of approaches including The Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM), EMDR, mindfulness techniques, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and other somatic and humanistic approaches.
I view psychotherapy as a powerful tool for breaking out of confusion and pain. I work with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, performance, life transitions, job problems, relationship issues, loneliness, and unhappiness. I actively and compassionately work with individuals (adults and adolescents) to help them regain a sense of hope, meaning, and connection in their lives, improving their coping skills and to manage daily stress and overcome destructive behaviors. As a therapist, I work with people to create the lives they want, allowing them to interact more successfully in their families, relationships, and the broader community.
I use a combination of approaches including The Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM), EMDR, mindfulness techniques, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, and other somatic and humanistic approaches.
I view psychotherapy as a powerful tool for breaking out of confusion and pain. I work with people seeking help with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma, performance, life transitions, job problems, relationship issues, loneliness, and unhappiness. I actively and compassionately work with individuals (adults and adolescents) to help them regain a sense of hope, meaning, and connection in their lives, improving their coping skills and to manage daily stress and overcome destructive behaviors. As a therapist, I work with people to create the lives they want, allowing them to interact more successfully in their families, relationships, and the broader community.
(414) 263-9090 View (414) 263-9090
Photo of Kimberly A Greenwald - Renewal & Healing Behavioral Health, MS, LPC, SAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renewal & Healing Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, SAC
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53219
I am certified in EMDR and Internal Family systems.
Renewal & Healing is a space where you can find safety through vulnerability and connection. I honor your individuality and tailor services to be as unique as you are. My practice is not just about overcoming challenges, but about embracing growth and finding a harmonious balance in both personal and professional life. I integrate techniques from a variety of evidence-based practices, including the transformative power of EMDR.
I am certified in EMDR and Internal Family systems.
Renewal & Healing is a space where you can find safety through vulnerability and connection. I honor your individuality and tailor services to be as unique as you are. My practice is not just about overcoming challenges, but about embracing growth and finding a harmonious balance in both personal and professional life. I integrate techniques from a variety of evidence-based practices, including the transformative power of EMDR.
(262) 599-6367 View (262) 599-6367
Photo of Luisa Vanden Bush, MS, LPC, CSAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Luisa Vanden Bush
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CSAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Allis, WI 53214
Waitlist for new clients
When traditional talk therapy makes little progress, I am trained to use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and brainspotting.
Do you feel lost or overwhelmed? Have you noticed your past getting in the way of your future? Do you believe you didn’t get what you needed growing up or that you missed out on a “normal” childhood? Therapy can offer guidance and help support your journey to the life you want. Healing takes time and it can feel vulnerable going through this process. We will create a plan to work towards your goals and support you feeling safe in this process. You are the expert and leader of your life. Together, we can work towards life skills, deal with the past, and improve your mental health.
When traditional talk therapy makes little progress, I am trained to use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and brainspotting.
Do you feel lost or overwhelmed? Have you noticed your past getting in the way of your future? Do you believe you didn’t get what you needed growing up or that you missed out on a “normal” childhood? Therapy can offer guidance and help support your journey to the life you want. Healing takes time and it can feel vulnerable going through this process. We will create a plan to work towards your goals and support you feeling safe in this process. You are the expert and leader of your life. Together, we can work towards life skills, deal with the past, and improve your mental health.
(262) 465-3998 View (262) 465-3998
Photo of James Eiff, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
James Eiff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227  (Online Only)
I work with adolescents and adults providing individual therapy. From small private practices to large psychiatric treatment institutions like Rogers Memorial Hospital, I have cultivated experience working with diverse clientele in a variety of treatment settings and have lead therapy groups focused on trauma, anger management, personality disorders, depression, and anxiety. I have provided consultation for programming revision in the areas of trauma and personality disorders and served on the Board of Directors for the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
I work with adolescents and adults providing individual therapy. From small private practices to large psychiatric treatment institutions like Rogers Memorial Hospital, I have cultivated experience working with diverse clientele in a variety of treatment settings and have lead therapy groups focused on trauma, anger management, personality disorders, depression, and anxiety. I have provided consultation for programming revision in the areas of trauma and personality disorders and served on the Board of Directors for the National Alliance on Mental Illness.
(262) 435-5539 View (262) 435-5539
Photo of David Bedrin - Pathways Counseling Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Pathways Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227
Pathways Counseling Center was established in 1985 as a state certified, outpatient mental health clinic. We have several therapists that provide a variety of services for various challenges. We offer services to individual clients, their families and significant others in treatment settings that include individual, couples, and group sessions. Our mental health professionals provide services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples to help our clients achieve emotional health and well-being.
Pathways Counseling Center was established in 1985 as a state certified, outpatient mental health clinic. We have several therapists that provide a variety of services for various challenges. We offer services to individual clients, their families and significant others in treatment settings that include individual, couples, and group sessions. Our mental health professionals provide services to children, adolescents, adults, families and couples to help our clients achieve emotional health and well-being.
(262) 946-5153 View (262) 946-5153
Photo of Claire Benton - Great Lakes Psychology Group - West Allis, Counselor
Great Lakes Psychology Group - West Allis
Counselor
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - West Allis understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - West Allis understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
(262) 228-2063 View (262) 228-2063
Photo of Aryeh Devorkin, MPH, MS, LPC-IT, Counselor
Aryeh Devorkin
Counselor, MPH, MS, LPC-IT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Allis, WI 53227
You feel burdened, like you’re carrying a refrigerator on your back through a land mine- almost anything or anyone could set you off. You hoped Life would be more peaceful, but as time goes on, your anxiety remains deep. Stress plants itself in your bones and reverberates through your whole body. It’s the same, no matter what you try. The voice of failure reverberates in your head. “You won’t make it, so why even try?” It all feels so hopeless.
You feel burdened, like you’re carrying a refrigerator on your back through a land mine- almost anything or anyone could set you off. You hoped Life would be more peaceful, but as time goes on, your anxiety remains deep. Stress plants itself in your bones and reverberates through your whole body. It’s the same, no matter what you try. The voice of failure reverberates in your head. “You won’t make it, so why even try?” It all feels so hopeless.
(414) 251-2087 View (414) 251-2087
Photo of Richard Kneip - Great Lakes Psychology Group - Waukesha, Psychologist
Great Lakes Psychology Group - Waukesha
Psychologist
Verified Verified
West Allis, WI 53227
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Waukesha understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
Accepting new patients! Whether you are new to therapy or looking to start again, Great Lakes Psychology Group - Waukesha understands that starting therapy can be overwhelming. That’s why we simplified the process with Find My Therapist. Get started by telling us about yourself, your location, and your insurance. Once you find your best-fit therapist, pick a time that works for you and book an appointment instantly through their calendar. Find My Therapist aims to make your journey as stress-free as possible, so you can start feeling better sooner.
(262) 747-2798 View (262) 747-2798

More Therapists Nearby

Dr. Lauri C. Gebhard
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
We use the most innovative treatment approaches including: EMDR, Hypnosis, Brain Spotting, EFT.
Are you stressed? Depressed? Anxious? Angry? Do you suffer from fatigue? Insomnia? Perfectionism? Low self esteem? Infertility? Weight Problems? Trauma? ADD? or Memory Problems? I can help. I am a clinical health psychologist with a specialty in behavioral medicine and am dedicated to empowering patients to positively heal their mind, body and spirit. With the specialty training I received in mind body medicine across the country, including through Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Hospital and University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center, I founded the Mind Body Program over 25 years ago. We employ innovative practices
We use the most innovative treatment approaches including: EMDR, Hypnosis, Brain Spotting, EFT.
Are you stressed? Depressed? Anxious? Angry? Do you suffer from fatigue? Insomnia? Perfectionism? Low self esteem? Infertility? Weight Problems? Trauma? ADD? or Memory Problems? I can help. I am a clinical health psychologist with a specialty in behavioral medicine and am dedicated to empowering patients to positively heal their mind, body and spirit. With the specialty training I received in mind body medicine across the country, including through Harvard Medical School/Cambridge Hospital and University of Miami/Jackson Memorial Medical Center, I founded the Mind Body Program over 25 years ago. We employ innovative practices
(262) 214-5777 View (262) 214-5777
Photo of Russell S Strelnick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Russell S Strelnick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
I utilize NLP, EMDR,(self hypnosis), breath work, psychodrama, and mindfulness meditation.
LEARN HOW TO MELT STRESS. I will teach you how to return to your composure so you can think clearly again and direct your actions towards doing what you 'can do' and stop worrying about the rest. www.firststepacceptance.com is my website. Insurance companies that I accept are listed. I also offer a sliding scale. Videos explaining how I approach healing work are also available.
I utilize NLP, EMDR,(self hypnosis), breath work, psychodrama, and mindfulness meditation.
LEARN HOW TO MELT STRESS. I will teach you how to return to your composure so you can think clearly again and direct your actions towards doing what you 'can do' and stop worrying about the rest. www.firststepacceptance.com is my website. Insurance companies that I accept are listed. I also offer a sliding scale. Videos explaining how I approach healing work are also available.
(414) 375-2790 View (414) 375-2790
Photo of Lilly Risch - Forward Healing Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Forward Healing Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Wauwatosa, WI 53213
Our approach is solution-focused and strengths-based approach, and I offer advanced modalities such as EMDR, Art Therapy, and Infant Mental Health Therapies that improve efficiency in attachment and trauma recovery.
Our mission at Forward Healing Therapy is to provide a supportive space to restore and move beyond trauma. Forward Healing Therapy is dedicated to using cutting-edge neuro-informed and expressive art therapies to treat trauma. We empower individuals to heal from past experiences and cultivate a path toward a more fulfilling and resilient future. Our mission is to support clients in moving forward with strength and courage, ultimately fostering a sense of wholeness and well-being.
Our approach is solution-focused and strengths-based approach, and I offer advanced modalities such as EMDR, Art Therapy, and Infant Mental Health Therapies that improve efficiency in attachment and trauma recovery.
Our mission at Forward Healing Therapy is to provide a supportive space to restore and move beyond trauma. Forward Healing Therapy is dedicated to using cutting-edge neuro-informed and expressive art therapies to treat trauma. We empower individuals to heal from past experiences and cultivate a path toward a more fulfilling and resilient future. Our mission is to support clients in moving forward with strength and courage, ultimately fostering a sense of wholeness and well-being.
(262) 205-7849 View (262) 205-7849
Photo of Anne David, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne David
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenfield, WI 53219
I have been trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and EMDR.
I provide therapy services to adults in office, outdoor, and virtual settings. I specialize in working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma and dissociation or major life transitions. As an option, services can incorporate nature into the psychotherapy setting. Clients who seek services at Samara may have found office-based services to be ineffective or may be curious about trying out therapy in natural settings. Office-based sessions occur in an office located near a botanical garden and large park providing post therapy options. Regardless of your location of choice, Samara will support your journey.
I have been trained in Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Hypnotherapy, and EMDR.
I provide therapy services to adults in office, outdoor, and virtual settings. I specialize in working with adults struggling with depression, anxiety, grief, trauma and dissociation or major life transitions. As an option, services can incorporate nature into the psychotherapy setting. Clients who seek services at Samara may have found office-based services to be ineffective or may be curious about trying out therapy in natural settings. Office-based sessions occur in an office located near a botanical garden and large park providing post therapy options. Regardless of your location of choice, Samara will support your journey.
(414) 348-1820 View (414) 348-1820
Photo of Bethany Williamson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53227
Bethany views her role as a therapist as a supportive guide through life's journey. She sees each client as the expert of their own journey while helping them to develop skills and tools such as resilience and courage to support healing along the way. She promotes successful outcomes by empowering her clients and utilizing various therapies to enhance the therapeutic experience such as: art, play, and EMDR. She draws from cognitive behavioral and personcentered approaches, and works to create a tailored and holistic approach to each client's needs.
Bethany views her role as a therapist as a supportive guide through life's journey. She sees each client as the expert of their own journey while helping them to develop skills and tools such as resilience and courage to support healing along the way. She promotes successful outcomes by empowering her clients and utilizing various therapies to enhance the therapeutic experience such as: art, play, and EMDR. She draws from cognitive behavioral and personcentered approaches, and works to create a tailored and holistic approach to each client's needs.
(414) 251-2294 View (414) 251-2294
Photo of Monique Woods, LCSW, CSAC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monique Woods
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAC
Verified Verified
Milwaukee, WI 53220  (Online Only)
As a passionate advocate for mental wellness, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals seeking support and guidance. With ten years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping clients navigate through life’s challenges, develop coping strategies, and cultivate resilience. I believe in collaboration and this view allows collaborative journey between myself and my clients. Together, we work towards fostering self-awareness, exploring patterns of thinking and behavior, and implementing positive changes that lead to a more fulfilling life.
As a passionate advocate for mental wellness, I am dedicated to providing compassionate and effective therapy to individuals seeking support and guidance. With ten years of experience in the field, I specialize in helping clients navigate through life’s challenges, develop coping strategies, and cultivate resilience. I believe in collaboration and this view allows collaborative journey between myself and my clients. Together, we work towards fostering self-awareness, exploring patterns of thinking and behavior, and implementing positive changes that lead to a more fulfilling life.
(262) 747-0890 View (262) 747-0890
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.