EMDR Therapists in Miami Beach, FL

Photo of Kathi Scholz, Licensed Professional Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Miami Beach, FL
Kathi Scholz, Licensed Professional Counselor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
I employ Sensory Motor Therapy, EMDR and others to help with trauma big and small.
Life can be a roller coaster. It takes us high with the birth of a child, falling in love, or reaching new goals. It may drop us low mourning a death, suffering abuse, grappling with sexual issues, feeling isolated. Sometimes we feel stuck with no hope on the horizon. You are unique but not alone. Whatever your struggles might be, fighting these battles on your own can be difficult, painful and overwhelming. Your struggles are your journey and sometimes it feels like that road comes to a dead end. Because each journey is unique, I use an integration of therapies to seek other inroads into your healing. One size does not fit all.
I employ Sensory Motor Therapy, EMDR and others to help with trauma big and small.
Life can be a roller coaster. It takes us high with the birth of a child, falling in love, or reaching new goals. It may drop us low mourning a death, suffering abuse, grappling with sexual issues, feeling isolated. Sometimes we feel stuck with no hope on the horizon. You are unique but not alone. Whatever your struggles might be, fighting these battles on your own can be difficult, painful and overwhelming. Your struggles are your journey and sometimes it feels like that road comes to a dead end. Because each journey is unique, I use an integration of therapies to seek other inroads into your healing. One size does not fit all.
(703) 957-7439 View (703) 957-7439
Photo of Miami Beach Behavioral Health LLC, Counselor in Miami Beach, FL
Miami Beach Behavioral Health LLC
Counselor, LMHC, CAP
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
(786) 460-2894 View (786) 460-2894
Photo of Cassie Mor, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Miami Beach, FL
Cassie Mor
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MFT-I
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
I mostly use EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), internal family systems (IFS) therapy, the Gottman method and Imago therapy.
Every one of us is worthy of healing from deep wounds and being in healthy, meaningful relationships – with self and with others. The journey towards this healing may not always be easy or straightforward, but having a co-pilot to navigate it with relieves stress and helps avoid frustrating detours.
I mostly use EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), internal family systems (IFS) therapy, the Gottman method and Imago therapy.
Every one of us is worthy of healing from deep wounds and being in healthy, meaningful relationships – with self and with others. The journey towards this healing may not always be easy or straightforward, but having a co-pilot to navigate it with relieves stress and helps avoid frustrating detours.
(305) 517-3056 View (305) 517-3056
Photo of Eugene Lee, Counselor in Miami Beach, FL
Eugene Lee
Counselor, LMHC, LPCC, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
With training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), EMDR, and other evidence-based modalities, I provide a secure space for healing, facilitating a deeper understanding of one's emotions, relationships, and behaviors.
Are you experiencing emotional and relational difficulties, betrayal trauma, religious trauma, anxiety, depression, or struggling to process traumatic experiences or challenging relationships? Do you feel like you are lost or that your life is stuck and you are not able to experience the joy of life? Are you feeling that your world has been turned upside down and are having difficulty finding stability? If so, I would like to offer you a safe, non-judgmental, collaborative, therapeutic, and supportive space to help you overcome these issues and move towards a state of relational, emotional, mental, spiritual, and behavioral health.
With training in Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), EMDR, and other evidence-based modalities, I provide a secure space for healing, facilitating a deeper understanding of one's emotions, relationships, and behaviors.
Are you experiencing emotional and relational difficulties, betrayal trauma, religious trauma, anxiety, depression, or struggling to process traumatic experiences or challenging relationships? Do you feel like you are lost or that your life is stuck and you are not able to experience the joy of life? Are you feeling that your world has been turned upside down and are having difficulty finding stability? If so, I would like to offer you a safe, non-judgmental, collaborative, therapeutic, and supportive space to help you overcome these issues and move towards a state of relational, emotional, mental, spiritual, and behavioral health.
(914) 342-7684 View (914) 342-7684
Photo of Abrah Sprung, PhD EMDR Therapy & Intensives, Psychologist in Miami Beach, FL
Abrah Sprung, PhD EMDR Therapy & Intensives
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33109  (Online Only)
I’m an EMDRIA-certified EMDR Therapist, specializing in helping people process and heal from painful experiences that are getting in the way of enjoying life.
Offering EMDR Therapy & Intensives- Are you tired of carrying the weight of the past? Have you had a painful experience that changed your life? Do you feel that who you were and how you see the world aren’t the same anymore? Do you find yourself feeling lost, angry, or afraid? Do you wonder if you will ever feel good or like yourself again? Maybe you’ve been in an accident, experienced sexual trauma, a diagnosis, or abuse, or lost someone (or something) you love. Do you feel stuck? Do your family and friends care but don’t know what to do either? You need someone who understands and can help you put the pieces back together.
I’m an EMDRIA-certified EMDR Therapist, specializing in helping people process and heal from painful experiences that are getting in the way of enjoying life.
Offering EMDR Therapy & Intensives- Are you tired of carrying the weight of the past? Have you had a painful experience that changed your life? Do you feel that who you were and how you see the world aren’t the same anymore? Do you find yourself feeling lost, angry, or afraid? Do you wonder if you will ever feel good or like yourself again? Maybe you’ve been in an accident, experienced sexual trauma, a diagnosis, or abuse, or lost someone (or something) you love. Do you feel stuck? Do your family and friends care but don’t know what to do either? You need someone who understands and can help you put the pieces back together.
View
Photo of Teresa Cote @Healing Place Counseling LLC, Licensed Mental Health Counselor in Miami Beach, FL
Teresa Cote @Healing Place Counseling LLC
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MA , LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
Some of the techniques that may be used in therapy are Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) & Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which can quickly relieve traumatic symptoms, rapidly heal emotions, and is fast paced.
As a trauma therapist, I work with many individuals facing deep heartache and struggles that sometimes feel too overwhelming and scary. Trauma can be triggered from some experiences such as past abuse, grief, chronic illness, or being a witness to traumatic events. This can also lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, panic, fear, phobias, irrational fears, and agitation. Trauma can also lead to negative coping skills such as addictive patterns and behaviors. I can walk alongside you in a journey of healing and assist you in coming to a place of safety and peace and help you overcome and move you towards a place of healing!
Some of the techniques that may be used in therapy are Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) & Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) which can quickly relieve traumatic symptoms, rapidly heal emotions, and is fast paced.
As a trauma therapist, I work with many individuals facing deep heartache and struggles that sometimes feel too overwhelming and scary. Trauma can be triggered from some experiences such as past abuse, grief, chronic illness, or being a witness to traumatic events. This can also lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, panic, fear, phobias, irrational fears, and agitation. Trauma can also lead to negative coping skills such as addictive patterns and behaviors. I can walk alongside you in a journey of healing and assist you in coming to a place of safety and peace and help you overcome and move you towards a place of healing!
(786) 321-3840 View (786) 321-3840
Photo of Brittanni Young, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
Brittanni Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33109
I use EMDR, an evidence-based treatment modality for trauma resolution.
When there are relational or sexual problems between loved ones, it can leave you feeling stuck, isolated, or defeated. You might feel like you are the problem. You are not alone and I can help. These feelings often come from early childhood messages that stay with us and interfere with our adult relationships. Being able to access and challenge these blocking messages can unlock a world to feeling more worth, connectivity and intimacy. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, Board Certified Sex therapist and Clinical Sexologist with the experience needed to start you towards your best life today!
I use EMDR, an evidence-based treatment modality for trauma resolution.
When there are relational or sexual problems between loved ones, it can leave you feeling stuck, isolated, or defeated. You might feel like you are the problem. You are not alone and I can help. These feelings often come from early childhood messages that stay with us and interfere with our adult relationships. Being able to access and challenge these blocking messages can unlock a world to feeling more worth, connectivity and intimacy. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist, Board Certified Sex therapist and Clinical Sexologist with the experience needed to start you towards your best life today!
(404) 476-5768 View (404) 476-5768
Photo of Square One Counseling,LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Miami Beach, FL
Square One Counseling,LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33140  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel stuck repeating the same old behaviors you swore you wouldn't ever do again? Or feel stuck playing a role you which not to identify with? If feeling stuck knowing what you want but not being able to achieve resonates with you, I may be a good fit for your needs. Life experiences teach us coping skills, both healthy and unhealthy. My passion is assisting clients rediscover their inner strength and process the unhealthy events in their past. This process is for those who want more out of life than they are currently receiving.
Do you ever feel stuck repeating the same old behaviors you swore you wouldn't ever do again? Or feel stuck playing a role you which not to identify with? If feeling stuck knowing what you want but not being able to achieve resonates with you, I may be a good fit for your needs. Life experiences teach us coping skills, both healthy and unhealthy. My passion is assisting clients rediscover their inner strength and process the unhealthy events in their past. This process is for those who want more out of life than they are currently receiving.
(314) 925-9109 View (314) 925-9109
Photo of April Eckhardt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
April Eckhardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BC-TMH, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33109  (Online Only)
***ONLINE - TELEHEALTH ONLY; Ability to see anyone in the state of Florida*** Life is hard. Sometimes daily activities can seem daunting with little hope of positive change. There are challenges and transitions in life that can lead to anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress. We may have an unfulfilling relationship where there is a desperate attempt for emotional connection, communication or healing from an infidelity. I utilize research-based therapies, such as EFT and EMDR, which can provide long lasting and effective change.
***ONLINE - TELEHEALTH ONLY; Ability to see anyone in the state of Florida*** Life is hard. Sometimes daily activities can seem daunting with little hope of positive change. There are challenges and transitions in life that can lead to anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress. We may have an unfulfilling relationship where there is a desperate attempt for emotional connection, communication or healing from an infidelity. I utilize research-based therapies, such as EFT and EMDR, which can provide long lasting and effective change.
(904) 409-3188 View (904) 409-3188
Photo of Jennifer Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
Jennifer Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33140  (Online Only)
I believe that a respectful, supportive, collaborative, relationship, is important for deeper healing. My approach is warm & creative. I use traditional psychotherapy and adjunctive therapies to work from the inside out - allowing one to resolve deep-rooted, underlying issues. I am skilled and Certified in Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR ,and Sex Therapy. Together, we work towards freeing you from the pain of anxiety, Depression, PTSD, sexual disorders and eating struggles. Self-understanding with resolution can allow choice. I welcome the opportunity to be part of your journey to a freer life.
I believe that a respectful, supportive, collaborative, relationship, is important for deeper healing. My approach is warm & creative. I use traditional psychotherapy and adjunctive therapies to work from the inside out - allowing one to resolve deep-rooted, underlying issues. I am skilled and Certified in Psychotherapy, Hypnotherapy, EMDR ,and Sex Therapy. Together, we work towards freeing you from the pain of anxiety, Depression, PTSD, sexual disorders and eating struggles. Self-understanding with resolution can allow choice. I welcome the opportunity to be part of your journey to a freer life.
(786) 699-8745 View (786) 699-8745
Photo of Lisa Bettcher - Wake Haven Therapy Services Llc, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
Lisa Bettcher - Wake Haven Therapy Services Llc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33109  (Online Only)
It's that STUCK feeling-Trapped in a painful cycle and you just can’t seem to break free. Just getting through the day can be a struggle. I will tell you- The way you’re feeling right now is NOT permanent. Change IS possible. You just need the right support and guidance to make it happen. These pains arise when we become consumed by the stresses of our lives and we lose touch with our own Selves and needs. We become disconnected, working on autopilot. I’ll help you get to the root of the problem so you can create lasting change in how you experience life.
It's that STUCK feeling-Trapped in a painful cycle and you just can’t seem to break free. Just getting through the day can be a struggle. I will tell you- The way you’re feeling right now is NOT permanent. Change IS possible. You just need the right support and guidance to make it happen. These pains arise when we become consumed by the stresses of our lives and we lose touch with our own Selves and needs. We become disconnected, working on autopilot. I’ll help you get to the root of the problem so you can create lasting change in how you experience life.
(813) 733-8512 View (813) 733-8512
Photo of Neil Wolfson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
Neil Wolfson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33140  (Online Only)
Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, chronic illness, or relationship challenges? If you’re in pain, overwhelmed, or feel unable to pull yourself out of your circumstances, I can help. Using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, EMDR Therapy (trauma therapy), Motivational Interviewing, and the Gottman Method for Couples Counseling, I can help you feel relief from your pain, gain more control of your life, and find a sense of purpose and direction.
Do you feel stuck? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, chronic illness, or relationship challenges? If you’re in pain, overwhelmed, or feel unable to pull yourself out of your circumstances, I can help. Using a combination of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, EMDR Therapy (trauma therapy), Motivational Interviewing, and the Gottman Method for Couples Counseling, I can help you feel relief from your pain, gain more control of your life, and find a sense of purpose and direction.
(561) 425-6552 View (561) 425-6552
Photo of Daisy Papp in Miami Beach, FL
Daisy Papp
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139
You need help now? I help you independently of your financial/social background, age, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Are you looking for immediate changes, are eager to live your life free of past trauma, stress, hurt, anger, abuse, anxiety, grief, loss, jealousy, repeating patterns, bad habits, etc.? Do you want to get where you want to be in life, eliminate what's holding you back from success and living a content life? YOU are the perfect client I can successfully help. CALL or email NOW to book your individual FREE 15 minutes consultation! Ich helfe Ihnen, wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen. Magyar nyelven is ajánlok konzultaciót.
You need help now? I help you independently of your financial/social background, age, ethnicity and sexual orientation. Are you looking for immediate changes, are eager to live your life free of past trauma, stress, hurt, anger, abuse, anxiety, grief, loss, jealousy, repeating patterns, bad habits, etc.? Do you want to get where you want to be in life, eliminate what's holding you back from success and living a content life? YOU are the perfect client I can successfully help. CALL or email NOW to book your individual FREE 15 minutes consultation! Ich helfe Ihnen, wenn Sie Deutsch sprechen. Magyar nyelven is ajánlok konzultaciót.
(305) 834-4575 View (305) 834-4575
Photo of Kenneth David Ovitz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
Kenneth David Ovitz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
Miami Beach, FL 33139  (Online Only)
I am honored that my clients share their deepest secrets with me every day. I am grateful for the trust they place in me and I value their need for confidentiality. I make an effort to listen to my clients and hear what they say to learn what they need to grow. Every client is a person who is much greater than their problem behavior or diagnosis. While I have extensive training in treating trauma and sexual behavior problems, I also have experience and training in treating other mental health problems such as: Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder, ADHD, and chemical as well as process addictions. I hav
I am honored that my clients share their deepest secrets with me every day. I am grateful for the trust they place in me and I value their need for confidentiality. I make an effort to listen to my clients and hear what they say to learn what they need to grow. Every client is a person who is much greater than their problem behavior or diagnosis. While I have extensive training in treating trauma and sexual behavior problems, I also have experience and training in treating other mental health problems such as: Depression, Anxiety, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, Panic Disorder, ADHD, and chemical as well as process addictions. I hav
(786) 982-8346 View (786) 982-8346
Photo of Holly Bedotto, Psychologist in Miami Beach, FL
Holly Bedotto
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33140
I am also certified in EMDR, and practice evidenced-based trauma therapies such as prolonged exposure and Written Exposure Therapy.
"Therapy is a journey one takes with a trusted professional who will walk side by side, at times guiding and at times following. There are no preconceived notions about this journey however brief or extended." These are the words I have shared over many years of training young professionals. Though I treat all types of individuals, my area of specialty is complex trauma - borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and dissociation. I am intensively trained in DBT and have been practicing and teaching DBT for over fifteen years. My team is DBT by Design/South FL DBT Consortium.
I am also certified in EMDR, and practice evidenced-based trauma therapies such as prolonged exposure and Written Exposure Therapy.
"Therapy is a journey one takes with a trusted professional who will walk side by side, at times guiding and at times following. There are no preconceived notions about this journey however brief or extended." These are the words I have shared over many years of training young professionals. Though I treat all types of individuals, my area of specialty is complex trauma - borderline personality disorder, PTSD, and dissociation. I am intensively trained in DBT and have been practicing and teaching DBT for over fifteen years. My team is DBT by Design/South FL DBT Consortium.
(786) 250-2958 View (786) 250-2958
Photo of Brad Salzman - Sex Addiction Expert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
Brad Salzman - Sex Addiction Expert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33109
I treat sexual addicts around the world via Zoom. In addition, I offer fully customized intensive therapy programs remotely and face to face. Are you addicted to sex, pornography, or relationships? Do you have problems with compulsive sexual behaviors that you just can't quit? Sex addiction and compulsive sexual behavior can ruin your life -- your family, your relationships, your career, your health. If you are serious about getting help and you want expert psychotherapy with an experienced therapist, then give me a call. I have helped many people struggling with sex addiction to turn their lives around. Free phone consultation.
I treat sexual addicts around the world via Zoom. In addition, I offer fully customized intensive therapy programs remotely and face to face. Are you addicted to sex, pornography, or relationships? Do you have problems with compulsive sexual behaviors that you just can't quit? Sex addiction and compulsive sexual behavior can ruin your life -- your family, your relationships, your career, your health. If you are serious about getting help and you want expert psychotherapy with an experienced therapist, then give me a call. I have helped many people struggling with sex addiction to turn their lives around. Free phone consultation.
(917) 791-1255 View (917) 791-1255
Photo of Bradley Kerschensteiner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
Bradley Kerschensteiner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33140
I recognize how difficult it can be to ask for help. I also firmly believe that this is the most critical first step in the healing and change process. I provide psychotherapy services for adult individuals and couples in a professional, collaborative and confidential environment. Call today and let me help you cultivate greater mental, emotional and spiritual health in your personal life, relationships and the workplace.
I recognize how difficult it can be to ask for help. I also firmly believe that this is the most critical first step in the healing and change process. I provide psychotherapy services for adult individuals and couples in a professional, collaborative and confidential environment. Call today and let me help you cultivate greater mental, emotional and spiritual health in your personal life, relationships and the workplace.
(786) 201-4543 View (786) 201-4543
Photo of Susan Meinert Amore, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
Susan Meinert Amore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33109  (Online Only)
To the rest of the world you are a high functioning, successful professional appearing to have it all together. Underneath it all, you are feeling empty, overwhelmed, anxious, and burnt out. You can't find time to do the things you love. You're the sort of person who is deeply curious about why you are the way you are. You've done therapy in the past and haven't gotten the positive life changes you desired. You are frustrated that some of the hard things you've been through in the past are showing back up in your life now and you are now ready to release the anxiety from your mind and body and embrace a life filled with joy.
To the rest of the world you are a high functioning, successful professional appearing to have it all together. Underneath it all, you are feeling empty, overwhelmed, anxious, and burnt out. You can't find time to do the things you love. You're the sort of person who is deeply curious about why you are the way you are. You've done therapy in the past and haven't gotten the positive life changes you desired. You are frustrated that some of the hard things you've been through in the past are showing back up in your life now and you are now ready to release the anxiety from your mind and body and embrace a life filled with joy.
(850) 308-5398 View (850) 308-5398
Photo of Tim Martin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
Tim Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSAT, CPPT, CMAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33139
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? All of these issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions, including substances. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR, as well. There is hope. Together, we'll figure things out.
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? All of these issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions, including substances. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR, as well. There is hope. Together, we'll figure things out.
(786) 756-6241 View (786) 756-6241
Photo of Shannon Stamey, Marriage & Family Therapist in Miami Beach, FL
Shannon Stamey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Miami Beach, FL 33109  (Online Only)
Now offering services to Residents of California and Florida. We live in a world where we are constantly being told we need to do more, we need to work harder, we are not enough just as we are. This mentality is causing us to push ourselves to the point of extreme stress, anxiety and burnout. What we really need is balance, peace and a clearer vision of who we are and what we personally need to thrive. This extends beyond ourselves into our relationships. I strive to create a safe space to explore and work through your challenges and find your way to better balance.
Now offering services to Residents of California and Florida. We live in a world where we are constantly being told we need to do more, we need to work harder, we are not enough just as we are. This mentality is causing us to push ourselves to the point of extreme stress, anxiety and burnout. What we really need is balance, peace and a clearer vision of who we are and what we personally need to thrive. This extends beyond ourselves into our relationships. I strive to create a safe space to explore and work through your challenges and find your way to better balance.
(805) 870-9803 View (805) 870-9803

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.