Therapists in Swansea, MA

Photo of Roxanne Martins, Counselor in Swansea, MA
Roxanne Martins
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Swansea, MA 02777  (Online Only)
I am trained and experienced in EMDR and IFS.
Current openings for telehealth. Hello, I have 30 years of experience working in the mental health field in various clinical settings. I have been in private practice for the last 17 years and enjoy working with my clients to help them achieve their personal goals. I believe that it is a strength to seek therapy as we all need to take care of our mental health and sometimes need support in doing so.
I am trained and experienced in EMDR and IFS.
Current openings for telehealth. Hello, I have 30 years of experience working in the mental health field in various clinical settings. I have been in private practice for the last 17 years and enjoy working with my clients to help them achieve their personal goals. I believe that it is a strength to seek therapy as we all need to take care of our mental health and sometimes need support in doing so.
(774) 322-9574 View (774) 322-9574
Photo of Annie Geissinger, LMHC, Counselor in Swansea, MA
Annie Geissinger, LMHC
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Swansea, MA 02777
Not accepting new clients
I am an Expressive Arts therapist, Mindfulness teacher, and EMDR therapist.
I am not taking new clients at this time. Life crises or challenges can be times when spiritual and/or personal values are re-examined, and opportunities arise to find new balance and wellbeing. Caring for oneself, and discovering one's qualities or what matters most, are part of healing of mental, emotional and physical bodies. This work provides a safe, non-judgmental space to examine feelings, beliefs and questions - a place to unwind traumas that may have us stuck in patterns that are no longer healthy. We find a new way to align with inner dreams or the intention of happiness that is unique to each individual.
I am an Expressive Arts therapist, Mindfulness teacher, and EMDR therapist.
I am not taking new clients at this time. Life crises or challenges can be times when spiritual and/or personal values are re-examined, and opportunities arise to find new balance and wellbeing. Caring for oneself, and discovering one's qualities or what matters most, are part of healing of mental, emotional and physical bodies. This work provides a safe, non-judgmental space to examine feelings, beliefs and questions - a place to unwind traumas that may have us stuck in patterns that are no longer healthy. We find a new way to align with inner dreams or the intention of happiness that is unique to each individual.
(401) 298-9489 View (401) 298-9489

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Greg Carpenter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Swansea, MA
Greg Carpenter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rehoboth, MA 02769  (Online Only)
In addition to talk therapy, I'm also trained in techniques like Intention Tapping (acupoint tapping), Sound Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and other mind/body therapies.
My counseling work focuses on helping you to strengthen your relationships, get unstuck and discover new possibilities. I see therapy as three-phase process: pain and symptom relief; discovering the source of painful patterns and releasing them, coaching to further transformation. Your goals will guide whether counseling is one to one, couples, or small group sessions. My spiritual and psychological background allows me to be sensitive to the whole person as we work together. Clients have received positive results on a variety of issues; life transitions, performance issues, stress/anxiety and relationship struggles.
In addition to talk therapy, I'm also trained in techniques like Intention Tapping (acupoint tapping), Sound Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and other mind/body therapies.
My counseling work focuses on helping you to strengthen your relationships, get unstuck and discover new possibilities. I see therapy as three-phase process: pain and symptom relief; discovering the source of painful patterns and releasing them, coaching to further transformation. Your goals will guide whether counseling is one to one, couples, or small group sessions. My spiritual and psychological background allows me to be sensitive to the whole person as we work together. Clients have received positive results on a variety of issues; life transitions, performance issues, stress/anxiety and relationship struggles.
(508) 514-5011 View (508) 514-5011
Photo of Keri-Ann Wagner, Counselor in Swansea, MA
Keri-Ann Wagner
Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720
I guide you through techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help lessen, and in some cases, eliminate trauma responses.
Do you need to take better care of yourself? Manage stress better? Improve your relationships? Are you struggling with PTSD or trauma symptoms (repeated childhood experiences, military or first responder, etc.)?
I guide you through techniques such as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help lessen, and in some cases, eliminate trauma responses.
Do you need to take better care of yourself? Manage stress better? Improve your relationships? Are you struggling with PTSD or trauma symptoms (repeated childhood experiences, military or first responder, etc.)?
(508) 809-3286 View (508) 809-3286
Photo of Carol Stearn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swansea, MA
Carol Stearn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Seekonk, MA 02771  (Online Only)
I offer individual telehealth therapy, through a user-friendly, HIPAA compliant platform to adults and seniors. I accept Medicare, most commercial insurancesand out-of-pocket payment. I have more than 19 years of experience collaborating with clients to successfully address a variety of behavioral, relationship and challenging life issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life transitions, substance abuse and infidelity. I utilize a number of therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue to be addressed, including cognitive behavioral, humanistic, self psychology, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
I offer individual telehealth therapy, through a user-friendly, HIPAA compliant platform to adults and seniors. I accept Medicare, most commercial insurancesand out-of-pocket payment. I have more than 19 years of experience collaborating with clients to successfully address a variety of behavioral, relationship and challenging life issues, including depression, anxiety, trauma, loss, life transitions, substance abuse and infidelity. I utilize a number of therapeutic modalities, depending on the issue to be addressed, including cognitive behavioral, humanistic, self psychology, motivational interviewing and EMDR.
(941) 202-5674 View (941) 202-5674
Photo of Ray of Light Wellness LLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swansea, MA
Ray of Light Wellness LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Fall River, MA 02720  (Online Only)
Ray of Light Wellness LLC is an online mental health group practice servicing residents in MA, RI, & CT. We currently have availability for clients in MA & RI ! We are a dedicated team of therapists who seek to provide effective, accessible, and affordable mental health services. We care and value our clients. We are honored to guide our clients on their healing journeys. As a group we have an array of specialties and treatment approaches to meet clients' needs. Our goal is to help you become an expert on your mental health and acquire the skills to manage the challenges you are facing. Check out our IG page rayoflightwellnessllc
Ray of Light Wellness LLC is an online mental health group practice servicing residents in MA, RI, & CT. We currently have availability for clients in MA & RI ! We are a dedicated team of therapists who seek to provide effective, accessible, and affordable mental health services. We care and value our clients. We are honored to guide our clients on their healing journeys. As a group we have an array of specialties and treatment approaches to meet clients' needs. Our goal is to help you become an expert on your mental health and acquire the skills to manage the challenges you are facing. Check out our IG page rayoflightwellnessllc
(508) 964-0140 View (508) 964-0140
Photo of Steven D Berube, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swansea, MA
Steven D Berube
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Seekonk, MA 02771
Hi, I am currently accepting new clients, but please reach out inquire about my availability as it can vary. A large part of my focus is on helping people who are experiencing problems in relationships, but I also see many people who may be struggling with anxiety, panic, or depression for other reasons. For couples, my work often involves healing from affairs, having difficult conversations, helping a couple reconnect again. For Individuals with relational issues, it is often about interrupting and healing from repeated patterns of meeting the wrong person(s), or helping to better cope with the impact of anxiety or depression.
Hi, I am currently accepting new clients, but please reach out inquire about my availability as it can vary. A large part of my focus is on helping people who are experiencing problems in relationships, but I also see many people who may be struggling with anxiety, panic, or depression for other reasons. For couples, my work often involves healing from affairs, having difficult conversations, helping a couple reconnect again. For Individuals with relational issues, it is often about interrupting and healing from repeated patterns of meeting the wrong person(s), or helping to better cope with the impact of anxiety or depression.
(508) 315-6834 View (508) 315-6834
Photo of Evan Colbert, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swansea, MA
Evan Colbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fall River, MA 02720
Not accepting new clients
**I am not currently accepting new clients at this time** - I have 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families who have experienced complex trauma. I use a variety of interventions for helping people process their emotions including EMDR, hypnotherapy, art/ expressive therapies along with traditional cognitive behavioral therapy. I also specialize in working with the LGBT population and have supported transgender clients in meeting the current standards of care for GRS. I use a person centered, strengths based approach and will work closely with you on identifying what you want to get out of therapy.
**I am not currently accepting new clients at this time** - I have 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples and families who have experienced complex trauma. I use a variety of interventions for helping people process their emotions including EMDR, hypnotherapy, art/ expressive therapies along with traditional cognitive behavioral therapy. I also specialize in working with the LGBT population and have supported transgender clients in meeting the current standards of care for GRS. I use a person centered, strengths based approach and will work closely with you on identifying what you want to get out of therapy.
(774) 322-2936 View (774) 322-2936
Photo of Janet Cope-Leclair, LMHC, LLC, Counselor in Swansea, MA
Janet Cope-Leclair, LMHC, LLC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Somerset, MA 02726
Not accepting new clients
I have been a clinician for 20 years working with adolescents, adults and families in crisis. These stressful experiences may include suicidal ideation, self harm, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship discord. I have experience with crisis management, problem solving, goal development and coping strategies to help restore stability and hope. If you are interested in therapy, gaining new skills and strategies, or looking to consolidate trauma memories, feel free to contact me. Please note, I do not specialize in couples counseling.
I have been a clinician for 20 years working with adolescents, adults and families in crisis. These stressful experiences may include suicidal ideation, self harm, depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship discord. I have experience with crisis management, problem solving, goal development and coping strategies to help restore stability and hope. If you are interested in therapy, gaining new skills and strategies, or looking to consolidate trauma memories, feel free to contact me. Please note, I do not specialize in couples counseling.
(508) 213-0844 View (508) 213-0844

Online Therapists

Photo of Sarah Gray, Psychologist in Swansea, MA
Sarah Gray
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arlington, MA 02476
Trained extensively in evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CBT-i, mindfulness-based therapies, Positive Psychology, behavioral medicine (biofeedback, clinical hypnosis, relaxation training), EMDR, & other mind-body techniques, we'll tailor individualized therapy approaches to help you learn coping tools and achieve your goals.
I am a Harvard Medical School and MGH-affiliated psychologist offering a compassionate, non-judgmental, strengths-based perspective with an active, collaborative therapeutic style. I draw from integrative, holistic, and evidence-based approaches to mental health and well-being, guided by the current research, and based on your unique background and needs. We will take into account multi-dimensional factors such as the biological, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural aspects for a whole-person perspective within the context of your unique experiences. I offer many unique tools so we can use approaches that fit your needs.
Trained extensively in evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), CBT-i, mindfulness-based therapies, Positive Psychology, behavioral medicine (biofeedback, clinical hypnosis, relaxation training), EMDR, & other mind-body techniques, we'll tailor individualized therapy approaches to help you learn coping tools and achieve your goals.
I am a Harvard Medical School and MGH-affiliated psychologist offering a compassionate, non-judgmental, strengths-based perspective with an active, collaborative therapeutic style. I draw from integrative, holistic, and evidence-based approaches to mental health and well-being, guided by the current research, and based on your unique background and needs. We will take into account multi-dimensional factors such as the biological, psychological, social, spiritual, and cultural aspects for a whole-person perspective within the context of your unique experiences. I offer many unique tools so we can use approaches that fit your needs.
(339) 707-5236 View (339) 707-5236
Photo of Annie Olinick, Mental Health Counselor in Swansea, MA
Annie Olinick
Mental Health Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watertown, MA 02472  (Online Only)
No current openings in my practice. My approach is based on respect, empathy, sensitivity and honesty. I believe in the integration of the mind and body in order to create change, growth and healing. I value your awareness, knowledge and self-insight as an integral part of our work together. I use a dynamic approach to therapy and include EMDR, mindfulness and psychodrama. I work with clients across a wide range of ages, backgrounds and presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, jealousy, anger, panic, phobias, trauma, relationship/family conflicts, sexuality/sexual identity, polyamory and parenting challenges.
No current openings in my practice. My approach is based on respect, empathy, sensitivity and honesty. I believe in the integration of the mind and body in order to create change, growth and healing. I value your awareness, knowledge and self-insight as an integral part of our work together. I use a dynamic approach to therapy and include EMDR, mindfulness and psychodrama. I work with clients across a wide range of ages, backgrounds and presenting issues, including depression, anxiety, jealousy, anger, panic, phobias, trauma, relationship/family conflicts, sexuality/sexual identity, polyamory and parenting challenges.
(857) 997-9029 View (857) 997-9029
Photo of Lynne Rothstein, Counselor in Swansea, MA
Lynne Rothstein
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Westford, MA 01886
I have been a licensed psychotherapist for twenty plus years. In the past ten years, I have been certified in Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, EMDR, and use Comprehensive Resource Model, Internal Family Systems, Energy Medicine, and Emotional Freedom Technique. Integrating these modalities has been life changing for my clients when healing from trauma, depression, and anxiety. We all have experiences in our past that have created coping mechanisms that can now prevent us from having the relationships, success, joy and happiness that we are meant to experience.
I have been a licensed psychotherapist for twenty plus years. In the past ten years, I have been certified in Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, EMDR, and use Comprehensive Resource Model, Internal Family Systems, Energy Medicine, and Emotional Freedom Technique. Integrating these modalities has been life changing for my clients when healing from trauma, depression, and anxiety. We all have experiences in our past that have created coping mechanisms that can now prevent us from having the relationships, success, joy and happiness that we are meant to experience.
(978) 903-0051 View (978) 903-0051
Photo of Emily Pilowa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swansea, MA
Emily Pilowa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02446
The clients I work with know how much I love and deeply respect the work we do together. Using a combination of narrative therapy, strengths based therapy and psychodynamic methods, I help each person establish their personal story and identify their personal goals. In addition to talk therapy, I am an EMDR practitioner and use this treatment to relieve trauma and advance clinical treatments. Please visit my website for more info or contact me to set up a quick phone call.
The clients I work with know how much I love and deeply respect the work we do together. Using a combination of narrative therapy, strengths based therapy and psychodynamic methods, I help each person establish their personal story and identify their personal goals. In addition to talk therapy, I am an EMDR practitioner and use this treatment to relieve trauma and advance clinical treatments. Please visit my website for more info or contact me to set up a quick phone call.
(617) 209-4885 View (617) 209-4885
Photo of Kristin Bramante, Counselor in Swansea, MA
Kristin Bramante
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Tewksbury, MA 01876  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
As a licensed mental health counselor, I offer an effective therapy called Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a Gold Standard treatment for trauma.
Are you feeling like you have lost your balance? Are you avoiding people, places, or situations because of anxiety, depression, or a recent trauma? Do you feel like you’re walking on eggshells in your relationships because you aren’t able to express how you really feel? Maybe you experienced childhood trauma and you need help to process and understand what happened to you so that you can create a different narrative for your life. All of these situations can be very painful and reaching out to a stranger is courageous step! I strive to create a trusting and nonjudgemental space for you. I hope you will take a moment to call.
As a licensed mental health counselor, I offer an effective therapy called Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), a Gold Standard treatment for trauma.
Are you feeling like you have lost your balance? Are you avoiding people, places, or situations because of anxiety, depression, or a recent trauma? Do you feel like you’re walking on eggshells in your relationships because you aren’t able to express how you really feel? Maybe you experienced childhood trauma and you need help to process and understand what happened to you so that you can create a different narrative for your life. All of these situations can be very painful and reaching out to a stranger is courageous step! I strive to create a trusting and nonjudgemental space for you. I hope you will take a moment to call.
(508) 439-6149 View (508) 439-6149
Photo of Laura Winters Unsworth, Marriage & Family Therapist in Swansea, MA
Laura Winters Unsworth
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Hamilton, MA 01936
Laura Unsworth is a skilled child, adult, and couples therapist, an expert in attachment and body-focused treatment modalities, and someone who can help you develop the skills and self-compassion needed to embrace a life narrative focused on strength and resilience. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with advanced training in evidenced-based therapies that include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She also has growing experience with one of our key modalities at 1A Wellness, Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Laura Unsworth is a skilled child, adult, and couples therapist, an expert in attachment and body-focused treatment modalities, and someone who can help you develop the skills and self-compassion needed to embrace a life narrative focused on strength and resilience. She is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) with advanced training in evidenced-based therapies that include Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She also has growing experience with one of our key modalities at 1A Wellness, Internal Family Systems (IFS).
(903) 300-2738 x14 View (903) 300-2738 x14
Photo of Courtney Aldrich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swansea, MA
Courtney Aldrich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
North Andover, MA 01845  (Online Only)
I am a clinical social worker and an expressive arts therapist. I enjoy working with adult survivors of childhood trauma. My approach integrates Expressive Arts Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and Trauma Sensitive Movement. I help people build skills to soothe anxious thoughts, express difficult emotions, and build a more positive relationship with their body and themself. My goal is to support as you learn to trust your inner wisdom, disrupt trauma narratives in your life, and fall in love with the present.
I am a clinical social worker and an expressive arts therapist. I enjoy working with adult survivors of childhood trauma. My approach integrates Expressive Arts Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, EMDR, and Trauma Sensitive Movement. I help people build skills to soothe anxious thoughts, express difficult emotions, and build a more positive relationship with their body and themself. My goal is to support as you learn to trust your inner wisdom, disrupt trauma narratives in your life, and fall in love with the present.
(978) 928-6635 View (978) 928-6635
Photo of Susan Devost, LMHC, Counselor in Swansea, MA
Susan Devost, LMHC
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Andover, MA 01810
I work with a wide range of ages and diagnoses with a specialization in PTSD and trauma informed training in EMDR.
I am a strength based therapist who uses multiple techniques in order to best serve each client's individual needs. My hope is to help clients by empowering them to become in charge of their own lives and growth. I am insightful, compassionate and straight forward. I believe you are the expert on your life and I guide you to create positive changes in your life.
I work with a wide range of ages and diagnoses with a specialization in PTSD and trauma informed training in EMDR.
I am a strength based therapist who uses multiple techniques in order to best serve each client's individual needs. My hope is to help clients by empowering them to become in charge of their own lives and growth. I am insightful, compassionate and straight forward. I believe you are the expert on your life and I guide you to create positive changes in your life.
(978) 296-7758 View (978) 296-7758
Photo of Celina Belmarce Pina Shemo, Counselor in Swansea, MA
Celina Belmarce Pina Shemo
Counselor, PsyD, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Tisbury, MA 02575
Dr. Celina, "Ambassador of Emotional Health" is a trauma specialist particularly in the areas of abuse, neglect and domestic violence. Dr. Celina is recognized for her distinguished clinical abilities in providing diagnostic assessment and treatment in the area of trauma related issues across many ages and cultures. Dr. Celina is known for her holistic approach to treatment and her use of therapeutic tools such as; EMDR, HeartMath techniques, Relaxation and Visualization techniques, Emotional Focus using her developed “Five Keys to Emotional Oneness” System, Movement, poetry and story writing techniques and other forms of healing.
Dr. Celina, "Ambassador of Emotional Health" is a trauma specialist particularly in the areas of abuse, neglect and domestic violence. Dr. Celina is recognized for her distinguished clinical abilities in providing diagnostic assessment and treatment in the area of trauma related issues across many ages and cultures. Dr. Celina is known for her holistic approach to treatment and her use of therapeutic tools such as; EMDR, HeartMath techniques, Relaxation and Visualization techniques, Emotional Focus using her developed “Five Keys to Emotional Oneness” System, Movement, poetry and story writing techniques and other forms of healing.
(508) 538-1948 View (508) 538-1948
Photo of Anxiety And Work Stress And Self-Esteem Therapy With Kevin Hayden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swansea, MA
Anxiety And Work Stress And Self-Esteem Therapy With Kevin Hayden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Mansfield, MA 02048  (Online Only)
I use EMDR, CBT and solution focused therapy, and I work with my clients on behavior modification and lifestyle changes (physical activity, creating structure, and stress management, etc.
Hi, I'm Kevin. If you're reading this, chances are things in your life are causing you distress and you're seeking change. I'm glad you're here, and taking a step towards asking for help. Whether it's battling anxiety, navigating social situations, confronting past issues and traumas, or feeling overwhelmed by work and relationships, know that you're not alone. I help people like you feel better about themselves, break free from these patterns, show up in their life, and create positive changes. I am here to support you on your path to a calmer, more confident, and fulfilling life.
I use EMDR, CBT and solution focused therapy, and I work with my clients on behavior modification and lifestyle changes (physical activity, creating structure, and stress management, etc.
Hi, I'm Kevin. If you're reading this, chances are things in your life are causing you distress and you're seeking change. I'm glad you're here, and taking a step towards asking for help. Whether it's battling anxiety, navigating social situations, confronting past issues and traumas, or feeling overwhelmed by work and relationships, know that you're not alone. I help people like you feel better about themselves, break free from these patterns, show up in their life, and create positive changes. I am here to support you on your path to a calmer, more confident, and fulfilling life.
(617) 380-6022 View (617) 380-6022
Photo of Shawna V. Carboni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Swansea, MA
Shawna V. Carboni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, DCSW
Verified Verified
Brookline, MA 02445  (Online Only)
She provides an innovative combination of insight-oriented therapy with Brainspotting and EMDR.
With more than 35 years experience, Ms. Carboni fervently believe in each individual's capacity for personal growth and change. With an ever-positive outlook, she seeks to identify inner resources and cultivate new capacities and perspectives that will contribute to a deeper self-awareness and an improved quality of life.
She provides an innovative combination of insight-oriented therapy with Brainspotting and EMDR.
With more than 35 years experience, Ms. Carboni fervently believe in each individual's capacity for personal growth and change. With an ever-positive outlook, she seeks to identify inner resources and cultivate new capacities and perspectives that will contribute to a deeper self-awareness and an improved quality of life.
(617) 782-5020 View (617) 782-5020

See more therapy options for Swansea

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.