EMDR Therapists in Portage, MI

Photo of Corinne Renee Graber, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portage, MI
Corinne Renee Graber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
I specialize in relationships, with problems including trust issues, communication problems, infidelity, or other problems that occur within a relationship. I also specialize in anxiety and depression related to trauma. I graduated from Arizona State with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2009 and am also trained in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I work with couples, families, children, adolescents, elderly and individuals with diverse backgrounds. I believe therapy is a collective and transforming process in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
I specialize in relationships, with problems including trust issues, communication problems, infidelity, or other problems that occur within a relationship. I also specialize in anxiety and depression related to trauma. I graduated from Arizona State with a Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy in 2009 and am also trained in Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I work with couples, families, children, adolescents, elderly and individuals with diverse backgrounds. I believe therapy is a collective and transforming process in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.
(269) 795-6681 View (269) 795-6681
Photo of Sarah Barr, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Sarah Barr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
I utilizes evidence-based practices - CBT, DBT, behavioral psychology, TF-CBT, EMDR & EMDR Flash .
Taking the first steps towards seeking therapy can be a very difficult decision. Acknowledging there is something about you or your life that you would like to change or improve can be scary. No matter what the reason is, I would be honored to assist you in the journey towards lifelong change. I will provide a safe, supportive space for you, your child or your family to work towards reaching goals for growth and improvement. While working with me, you will be in a safe and supportive space that is judgement free. I belief that through hard work and motivation any family and/or individual can make the changes they strive for.
I utilizes evidence-based practices - CBT, DBT, behavioral psychology, TF-CBT, EMDR & EMDR Flash .
Taking the first steps towards seeking therapy can be a very difficult decision. Acknowledging there is something about you or your life that you would like to change or improve can be scary. No matter what the reason is, I would be honored to assist you in the journey towards lifelong change. I will provide a safe, supportive space for you, your child or your family to work towards reaching goals for growth and improvement. While working with me, you will be in a safe and supportive space that is judgement free. I belief that through hard work and motivation any family and/or individual can make the changes they strive for.
(269) 520-7968 View (269) 520-7968
Photo of Gabriel Kangas, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portage, MI
Gabriel Kangas
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCS
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49002  (Online Only)
I offer EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy to address client's needs in a personalized and productive manner.
My personal theoretical foundation is not limited to one approach. I believe it is necessary for counselors to be adaptive. Every client is different and our responses and approaches should be equally diverse. One person may need a cognitive behavioral approach whereas another would be more responsive to brief counseling. This eclectic approach will be applied to all clients. Techniques will vary between clients to best meet the individual client's needs.
I offer EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy to address client's needs in a personalized and productive manner.
My personal theoretical foundation is not limited to one approach. I believe it is necessary for counselors to be adaptive. Every client is different and our responses and approaches should be equally diverse. One person may need a cognitive behavioral approach whereas another would be more responsive to brief counseling. This eclectic approach will be applied to all clients. Techniques will vary between clients to best meet the individual client's needs.
(616) 205-9786 x92801 View (616) 205-9786 x92801
Photo of Roxanne Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portage, MI
Roxanne Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
I have received extensive training in techniques such as EMDR, CBT, and behavioral therapy, which enable me to provide effective support in your healing process.
At times, we may find ourselves in need of additional assistance, for various reasons. If you are considering therapy, I would be honored to join you on this journey, and offer support for you, your child or your family. I believe you are the expert on your life, so we will work together on setting goals and finding ways to meet them, that work for you and your family. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, be vulnerable, and gain confidence to use your strengths to improve your daily living and achieve your goals.
I have received extensive training in techniques such as EMDR, CBT, and behavioral therapy, which enable me to provide effective support in your healing process.
At times, we may find ourselves in need of additional assistance, for various reasons. If you are considering therapy, I would be honored to join you on this journey, and offer support for you, your child or your family. I believe you are the expert on your life, so we will work together on setting goals and finding ways to meet them, that work for you and your family. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where you can feel heard, be vulnerable, and gain confidence to use your strengths to improve your daily living and achieve your goals.
(947) 203-3466 View (947) 203-3466
Photo of Barbara Richards, Counselor in Portage, MI
Barbara Richards
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
Also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) and Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT).
Accepting New Clients...I have a passion for coming alongside my clients and empowering them to find their strengths to make positive changes in their lives. I am committed to building a relationship with my clients that will facilitate growth and healing; gaining knowledge and tools that will promote continued growth and development even after therapy has ended. I am also dedicated to continuing to grow and learn professionally and personally in order to provide the best possible care for my clients.
Also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) and Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT).
Accepting New Clients...I have a passion for coming alongside my clients and empowering them to find their strengths to make positive changes in their lives. I am committed to building a relationship with my clients that will facilitate growth and healing; gaining knowledge and tools that will promote continued growth and development even after therapy has ended. I am also dedicated to continuing to grow and learn professionally and personally in order to provide the best possible care for my clients.
(269) 215-5753 View (269) 215-5753
Photo of Megan Freed, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Megan Freed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
Waitlist for new clients
My passion is working with women in their reproductive years who are pregnant, postpartum, experiencing infertility, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, or are in need of support related to parenting and relationships. My patients are usually coming to therapy in need of a safe outlet to process their relationships, worries, decisions and past traumas. I enjoy walking alongside of my patients and helping them to reach the goals they have in mind when they begin the therapy process. I am trained and pursuing certification in EMDR to help support women who are experiencing trauma, or have past trauma they are looking to heal from.
My passion is working with women in their reproductive years who are pregnant, postpartum, experiencing infertility, birth trauma, pregnancy loss, or are in need of support related to parenting and relationships. My patients are usually coming to therapy in need of a safe outlet to process their relationships, worries, decisions and past traumas. I enjoy walking alongside of my patients and helping them to reach the goals they have in mind when they begin the therapy process. I am trained and pursuing certification in EMDR to help support women who are experiencing trauma, or have past trauma they are looking to heal from.
(269) 225-3278 x101 View (269) 225-3278 x101
Photo of Christin Colon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Christin Colon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49002
Christin Colon is a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2021. She was EMDR trained by the Morsey Institute. Christin works on neutralizing trauma with EMDR. She can help people learn new ways of coping and thinking to help reduce levels of depression and anxiety with CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, etc. Sometimes people just need help making and achieving personal goals and Christin can help with that too. Additionally, she can help people work on their communication skills to help enrich their life.
Christin Colon is a Limited Licensed Master Social Worker in Michigan who has been practicing since 2021. She was EMDR trained by the Morsey Institute. Christin works on neutralizing trauma with EMDR. She can help people learn new ways of coping and thinking to help reduce levels of depression and anxiety with CBT, Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, etc. Sometimes people just need help making and achieving personal goals and Christin can help with that too. Additionally, she can help people work on their communication skills to help enrich their life.
(269) 340-3025 View (269) 340-3025
Photo of Paula Shelner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Paula Shelner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49024
I see both children and adults who have experienced trauma using the most advanced and evidenced based treatment, EMDR.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in children ages 4-12 years. I engage them with both therapeutic play, creative arts interventions and therapeutic games. When children and young adolescents come to therapy they need to feel safe and enjoy the experience while learning skills to improve how they feel. When families come to therapy, they look for guidance from an experienced therapist who will join with their family and help them navigate through their family issues. Depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, divorce, adoption and life adjustments are all issues that lead many children and families to seek specialized treatment.
I see both children and adults who have experienced trauma using the most advanced and evidenced based treatment, EMDR.
As a Registered Play Therapist, I specialize in children ages 4-12 years. I engage them with both therapeutic play, creative arts interventions and therapeutic games. When children and young adolescents come to therapy they need to feel safe and enjoy the experience while learning skills to improve how they feel. When families come to therapy, they look for guidance from an experienced therapist who will join with their family and help them navigate through their family issues. Depression, anxiety, trauma, anger, divorce, adoption and life adjustments are all issues that lead many children and families to seek specialized treatment.
(269) 341-9910 View (269) 341-9910
Photo of Serene Solutions, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portage, MI
Serene Solutions
Licensed Professional Counselor, LLP, LPC, CAADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49002
One size does not fit all, thus our therapists are trained in a variety of counseling techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Sometimes life doesn't go the way we planned. At times we are faced with obstacles that can leave us feeling stuck and unhappy. This can lead to depression, anxiety, anger, grief, and many other emotions. You may even feel your life is unmanageable or out of control. However, you are not alone. Let us help you discover a way to a brighter future filled with happiness and hope. Our licensed therapists specialize in helping people afflicted with addictions, depression, anxiety, fears, anger, mood disorders, life changes, and trauma. To see all the bios and photos of our therapists visit us at https://serenesolutions.net
One size does not fit all, thus our therapists are trained in a variety of counseling techniques including Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Sometimes life doesn't go the way we planned. At times we are faced with obstacles that can leave us feeling stuck and unhappy. This can lead to depression, anxiety, anger, grief, and many other emotions. You may even feel your life is unmanageable or out of control. However, you are not alone. Let us help you discover a way to a brighter future filled with happiness and hope. Our licensed therapists specialize in helping people afflicted with addictions, depression, anxiety, fears, anger, mood disorders, life changes, and trauma. To see all the bios and photos of our therapists visit us at https://serenesolutions.net
(269) 218-3016 View (269) 218-3016
Photo of Lissa Perkins, Psychologist in Portage, MI
Lissa Perkins
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
You are ready to find a better way to end your emotional and physical pain. Successful clients of EMDR learn to change old habits of thoughts and behaviors so you can have a life with less suffering and more joy. Let me help you heal and grow with love, compassion and humor! Studies in EMDR psychotherapy shows that the mind can in fact heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma. EMDR therapy has been recognized as an effective form of treatment by the World Health Organization and the Veterans Administration. Email me today. I will try to return your emails within 48 business hours.
You are ready to find a better way to end your emotional and physical pain. Successful clients of EMDR learn to change old habits of thoughts and behaviors so you can have a life with less suffering and more joy. Let me help you heal and grow with love, compassion and humor! Studies in EMDR psychotherapy shows that the mind can in fact heal from psychological trauma much as the body recovers from physical trauma. EMDR therapy has been recognized as an effective form of treatment by the World Health Organization and the Veterans Administration. Email me today. I will try to return your emails within 48 business hours.
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Photo of Gladys J Seedorf, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Gladys J Seedorf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49024
My approach combines Cognitive behavioral, Mindfulness, Solution focused and EMDR.
I am a Social Worker with 32 years experience. I have worked with clients/couples with a wide range of concerns including: stress, anxiety, depression, compassion fatigue, relationship issues, domestic abuse, intimacy issues, parenting problems, medical issues, grief, self esteem, coping with life changes, and military issues. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels.
My approach combines Cognitive behavioral, Mindfulness, Solution focused and EMDR.
I am a Social Worker with 32 years experience. I have worked with clients/couples with a wide range of concerns including: stress, anxiety, depression, compassion fatigue, relationship issues, domestic abuse, intimacy issues, parenting problems, medical issues, grief, self esteem, coping with life changes, and military issues. My therapy style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect and compassion. I do not believe in stigmatizing labels.
(269) 256-2245 View (269) 256-2245
Photo of Travis Guerrero, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Travis Guerrero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49024
I am a trauma-informed professional with training in both talk therapy and EMDR.
For many of us who have felt different, including those in the LGBTQIA+, we live with the collective trauma of existing in a system that isn’t built for us to thrive as our authentic selves. My hope is that through our collaboration we will be able to explore and identify the experiences and traumas that have led you to seek therapy services, understand how these problem areas don’t impact what is the most obvious, but also understand that sometimes these problems go much deeper, and lastly work through the things we discover to help you push through the discomfort to empower you to live authentically
I am a trauma-informed professional with training in both talk therapy and EMDR.
For many of us who have felt different, including those in the LGBTQIA+, we live with the collective trauma of existing in a system that isn’t built for us to thrive as our authentic selves. My hope is that through our collaboration we will be able to explore and identify the experiences and traumas that have led you to seek therapy services, understand how these problem areas don’t impact what is the most obvious, but also understand that sometimes these problems go much deeper, and lastly work through the things we discover to help you push through the discomfort to empower you to live authentically
(269) 367-2671 View (269) 367-2671
Photo of Ruth L Eichler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Ruth L Eichler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49002  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you have experienced or are experiencing trauma, I have also worked with EMDR for the past 20 years, a method that has been very helpful in reducing the impact of trauma, freeing up greater vitality, and reducing anxiety and depression.
Does your marriage need an "upgrade" to restore connection and communication and optimize each of you to get the love you want? I am certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist and can assist you in this process. I also work with a variety of methods with individuals who desire greater well being and new or enhanced skills in meeting life's challenges and in moving to new levels of consciousness.
If you have experienced or are experiencing trauma, I have also worked with EMDR for the past 20 years, a method that has been very helpful in reducing the impact of trauma, freeing up greater vitality, and reducing anxiety and depression.
Does your marriage need an "upgrade" to restore connection and communication and optimize each of you to get the love you want? I am certified as an Imago Relationship Therapist and can assist you in this process. I also work with a variety of methods with individuals who desire greater well being and new or enhanced skills in meeting life's challenges and in moving to new levels of consciousness.
(269) 205-3436 View (269) 205-3436
Photo of Liz Cary, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Portage, MI
Liz Cary
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, CAADC, CCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist specializing in EMDR Therapy.  I use EMDR to treat the impacts of traumatic events, PTSD, grief, anger, and addictions including substance and sexual addictions. I primarily work with Veterans and First Responders, and individuals on the front lines of taking care of others. When you face the dangers of the world head-on on a daily basis, asking for help may feel counterintuitive. At the same time, avoiding problems, thinking they will get better on their own, or denial of their existance (despite the evidence) is a guaranteed path to less-than-ideal outcomes.
I am a Limited Licensed Psychologist specializing in EMDR Therapy.  I use EMDR to treat the impacts of traumatic events, PTSD, grief, anger, and addictions including substance and sexual addictions. I primarily work with Veterans and First Responders, and individuals on the front lines of taking care of others. When you face the dangers of the world head-on on a daily basis, asking for help may feel counterintuitive. At the same time, avoiding problems, thinking they will get better on their own, or denial of their existance (despite the evidence) is a guaranteed path to less-than-ideal outcomes.
(269) 605-4327 View (269) 605-4327
Photo of Kristi J Karel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Kristi J Karel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR therapy and utilize somatic and mindfulness techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and behavioral approaches.
On our journey through life we sometimes face challenges that lead us to seek out additional support. Life is messy and I am here to help you be intentional with your approach to treatment and pull on your strengths to get through the challenges you are facing. I work to create a safe, non-judgemental, and caring environment for you to process your struggles. Together we will work to find strategies and coping skills to decrease distress and work towards healing.
I am trained in EMDR therapy and utilize somatic and mindfulness techniques, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-focused therapy, and behavioral approaches.
On our journey through life we sometimes face challenges that lead us to seek out additional support. Life is messy and I am here to help you be intentional with your approach to treatment and pull on your strengths to get through the challenges you are facing. I work to create a safe, non-judgemental, and caring environment for you to process your struggles. Together we will work to find strategies and coping skills to decrease distress and work towards healing.
(269) 301-1441 View (269) 301-1441
Photo of Brandy Burnham, Limited Licensed Psychologist in Portage, MI
Brandy Burnham
Limited Licensed Psychologist, MA, LLP, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49024
I have extensive history within the special needs community, and I am trained in EMDR and TBRI.
Even in the darkest of times hope can be found. There is always a reason to keep going! When your world is falling apart, and you feel that everything is stacked against you, a glimmer of hope can change your whole perspective. You are meant for more!
I have extensive history within the special needs community, and I am trained in EMDR and TBRI.
Even in the darkest of times hope can be found. There is always a reason to keep going! When your world is falling apart, and you feel that everything is stacked against you, a glimmer of hope can change your whole perspective. You are meant for more!
(269) 682-1043 View (269) 682-1043
Photo of Mallory Bitzer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Mallory Bitzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49002
I am trained in EMDR which can be used to treat trauma, grief, and PTSD.
Brene Brown stated, “Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It’s about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen.” Being our authentic self is easier said than done, but it is totally worth it. To develop this, we need to embrace our strengths, explore our values, pay attention to our self-talk, notice our emotions, practice mindfulness, build a solid social support network, and face our fears. When we live authentically, we generate trust within ourselves and with others. This process can be difficult but is worth it.
I am trained in EMDR which can be used to treat trauma, grief, and PTSD.
Brene Brown stated, “Authenticity is a collection of choices that we have to make every day. It’s about the choice to show up and be real. The choice to be honest. The choice to let our true selves be seen.” Being our authentic self is easier said than done, but it is totally worth it. To develop this, we need to embrace our strengths, explore our values, pay attention to our self-talk, notice our emotions, practice mindfulness, build a solid social support network, and face our fears. When we live authentically, we generate trust within ourselves and with others. This process can be difficult but is worth it.
(269) 215-4029 View (269) 215-4029
Photo of Holli Slater, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Holli Slater
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, CAADC
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49024  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use client centered approaches with counseling techniques including EMDR, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gottman Method, and Psychoeducation.
Whether you are experiencing mental health issues, challenges that are overwhelming, or just need someone to talk with, I am here to support and be a person standing next to you through whatever challenges you may face by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free environment. Experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflict, family conflict, addiction, trauma, and mental health disorders can be hard to handle on your own. I am here to assist in creating a better understanding of yourself and accomplish the goals you want within your life and treatment.
I use client centered approaches with counseling techniques including EMDR, Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gottman Method, and Psychoeducation.
Whether you are experiencing mental health issues, challenges that are overwhelming, or just need someone to talk with, I am here to support and be a person standing next to you through whatever challenges you may face by providing a safe, compassionate, and judgment-free environment. Experiencing anxiety, depression, PTSD, relationship conflict, family conflict, addiction, trauma, and mental health disorders can be hard to handle on your own. I am here to assist in creating a better understanding of yourself and accomplish the goals you want within your life and treatment.
(269) 682-1960 View (269) 682-1960
Photo of Rudi Betzold, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portage, MI
Rudi Betzold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LLMSW
Verified Verified
Portage, MI 49024
You took the first step in looking for a therapist. That takes courage and a leap of faith! Finding help and connection can be difficult, especially when we feel stuck and alone. I work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. I also specialize in helping people who have experienced trauma. I am trained to use EMDR therapy to process traumatic events and memories.
You took the first step in looking for a therapist. That takes courage and a leap of faith! Finding help and connection can be difficult, especially when we feel stuck and alone. I work with teens and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. I also specialize in helping people who have experienced trauma. I am trained to use EMDR therapy to process traumatic events and memories.
(269) 280-0476 View (269) 280-0476
Photo of Gen Manders, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portage, MI
Gen Manders
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, IBHPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portage, MI 49002
I am trained in TFCBT, EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy and other therapeutic models.
Hello, I believe that making the decision to reach out for therapeutic supports for you and your loved ones is a personal decision. I am honored to walk along side you in your journey. I believe in a Person Centered approach; allowing us to define the goals and areas of focus together in your journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have over 18 years of experience proving therapy services to youth and their families. My primary focus is working with youth, young adults and families in learning how to overcome traumas or adjusting to new stressors in life; supporting you in transitions.
I am trained in TFCBT, EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy and other therapeutic models.
Hello, I believe that making the decision to reach out for therapeutic supports for you and your loved ones is a personal decision. I am honored to walk along side you in your journey. I believe in a Person Centered approach; allowing us to define the goals and areas of focus together in your journey. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have over 18 years of experience proving therapy services to youth and their families. My primary focus is working with youth, young adults and families in learning how to overcome traumas or adjusting to new stressors in life; supporting you in transitions.
(269) 895-6090 View (269) 895-6090

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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.