EMDR Therapists in Tenafly, NJ

Photo of Alexandra Dimant, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Alexandra Dimant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Waitlist for new clients
Thus, I can help with a localized problem using EMDR or CBT methods or untangle a deeper issue using existentialist and insight-oriented approaches.
I believe that my work is in helping clients walk less blindly through life. I try to ask questions to clarify the principles underlying the ways they relate to the world and others. I help not only with common problems (anxiety, depression, PTSD, phobias, OCD, etc.) but also work with those whose issues are not easily captured by a diagnosis and are existential in nature. The so-called "worried well" come to uncover and work through the sources of internal struggles, in order to become their best selves and live a more fulfilling life. I am fully bilingual and practice in both English and Russian.
Thus, I can help with a localized problem using EMDR or CBT methods or untangle a deeper issue using existentialist and insight-oriented approaches.
I believe that my work is in helping clients walk less blindly through life. I try to ask questions to clarify the principles underlying the ways they relate to the world and others. I help not only with common problems (anxiety, depression, PTSD, phobias, OCD, etc.) but also work with those whose issues are not easily captured by a diagnosis and are existential in nature. The so-called "worried well" come to uncover and work through the sources of internal struggles, in order to become their best selves and live a more fulfilling life. I am fully bilingual and practice in both English and Russian.
(646) 606-2466 View (646) 606-2466
Photo of Jennifer Fine McDermut, Psychologist in Tenafly, NJ
Jennifer Fine McDermut
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I strive to offer a warm, supportive environment for people to explore their concerns, learn new ways of coping in the world, and to promote psychological growth and healing. While I have experience working with individuals with many different issues and diagnoses, I have specific expertise in treating those who have experienced trauma (recent or past) and those who struggle with eating/body image issues and disorders.
I strive to offer a warm, supportive environment for people to explore their concerns, learn new ways of coping in the world, and to promote psychological growth and healing. While I have experience working with individuals with many different issues and diagnoses, I have specific expertise in treating those who have experienced trauma (recent or past) and those who struggle with eating/body image issues and disorders.
(201) 390-4932 View (201) 390-4932
Photo of Felice Toonkel, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tenafly, NJ
Felice Toonkel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC, SEP, NCPsyA
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I have an extensive background in many treatment modalities including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness Meditation, Emotional Freedom Technique, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Clinical Hypnosis, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
I am a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and have been in private practice for over 30 years. The eclectic nature of my training and practice allows me to tailor therapy to your unique treatment needs. As we think about the nature of experiences such as trauma (both old and new), grief, loss, depression, and anxiety, it is clear they affect us through the mind, emotions, and the physical sensations. The mind-body connection treats the whole person in the service of health and well-being.
I have an extensive background in many treatment modalities including Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Mindfulness Meditation, Emotional Freedom Technique, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, Clinical Hypnosis, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy.
I am a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor and have been in private practice for over 30 years. The eclectic nature of my training and practice allows me to tailor therapy to your unique treatment needs. As we think about the nature of experiences such as trauma (both old and new), grief, loss, depression, and anxiety, it is clear they affect us through the mind, emotions, and the physical sensations. The mind-body connection treats the whole person in the service of health and well-being.
(201) 543-1902 View (201) 543-1902
Photo of The Koch Center, Psychologist in Tenafly, NJ
The Koch Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
The Koch Center (located in Montclair, Waldwick, Morristown, & Englewood) specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapy and Programs for Adults, Adolescents, Middle Schoolers, and Families. Our Intensive DBT Programs offer an opportunity to receive extensive support and expert treatment in an outpatient setting. We treat the full range of psychological issues (including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Impulse Control Disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship Problems, Personality Disorders). We have a Trauma Program for adults. We also offer individual therapy from varying theoretical orientations.
The Koch Center (located in Montclair, Waldwick, Morristown, & Englewood) specializes in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) Therapy and Programs for Adults, Adolescents, Middle Schoolers, and Families. Our Intensive DBT Programs offer an opportunity to receive extensive support and expert treatment in an outpatient setting. We treat the full range of psychological issues (including Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Impulse Control Disorders, Eating Disorders, Trauma, Relationship Problems, Personality Disorders). We have a Trauma Program for adults. We also offer individual therapy from varying theoretical orientations.
(201) 730-1280 View (201) 730-1280
Photo of Susan Dowd Stone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Susan Dowd Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Using evidenced based approaches (psychodynamic, CBT, DBT and EMDR) has helped hundreds of women throughout the tri-state area - and those they love - transform their lives through self-empowerment and the acquisition of new skills and perspectives.
Reading through these profiles can feel daunting when you are unsure of who can best help you. You need an able, expert guide worthy of your own commitment to face unresolved challenges. Good therapy gives causative insight, but GREAT therapy supports YOUR vision of creating a "life worth living". My work covers; career and relationships, trauma related to pregnancy, childbirth and infertility, chronic or terminal illness, disordered eating, grief and loss (including child and fetal loss).
Using evidenced based approaches (psychodynamic, CBT, DBT and EMDR) has helped hundreds of women throughout the tri-state area - and those they love - transform their lives through self-empowerment and the acquisition of new skills and perspectives.
Reading through these profiles can feel daunting when you are unsure of who can best help you. You need an able, expert guide worthy of your own commitment to face unresolved challenges. Good therapy gives causative insight, but GREAT therapy supports YOUR vision of creating a "life worth living". My work covers; career and relationships, trauma related to pregnancy, childbirth and infertility, chronic or terminal illness, disordered eating, grief and loss (including child and fetal loss).
(201) 817-3776 View (201) 817-3776
Photo of Kimberly C Agresta, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Kimberly C Agresta
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
The Agresta Psychotherapy group has been providing psychotherapeutic services in the Metropolitan area for over thirty years. I, personally, have worked in the mental health profession in various capacities for over 20 years. My specialties include anxiety disorders, relationship counseling, women's issues and family and group therapy. I established a division of APG called Women's Wellness. Women's Wellness specializes in problems commonly associated with women, such as postpartum depression, fertility, adoption and surrogacy, women's cancers, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, parenting skills and couples issues.
The Agresta Psychotherapy group has been providing psychotherapeutic services in the Metropolitan area for over thirty years. I, personally, have worked in the mental health profession in various capacities for over 20 years. My specialties include anxiety disorders, relationship counseling, women's issues and family and group therapy. I established a division of APG called Women's Wellness. Women's Wellness specializes in problems commonly associated with women, such as postpartum depression, fertility, adoption and surrogacy, women's cancers, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, depression, parenting skills and couples issues.
(551) 227-3450 View (551) 227-3450
Photo of Elissa R. Gross, Psychologist in Tenafly, NJ
Elissa R. Gross
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I have extensive training in the following areas: trauma; divorce, remarriage and blended family issues; eating disorders,depression and anxiety; I've trained as an EMDR clinician.
Therapy is a powerful way to increase self awareness and develop problem solving skills. I work collaboratively with clients to address issues that interfere with their sense of wellbeing. I am warm,authentic,insightful,and funny. Feeling validated, clients are able to work through challenging issues. We will build upon your strengths to create more effective coping strategies, and to help clients attain happiness and peace. I am thrilled to announce that I have joined the Lukin Center, a group of highly qualified clinicians with locations in Englewood, Hoboken, Ridgewood and Jersey City, NJ.
I have extensive training in the following areas: trauma; divorce, remarriage and blended family issues; eating disorders,depression and anxiety; I've trained as an EMDR clinician.
Therapy is a powerful way to increase self awareness and develop problem solving skills. I work collaboratively with clients to address issues that interfere with their sense of wellbeing. I am warm,authentic,insightful,and funny. Feeling validated, clients are able to work through challenging issues. We will build upon your strengths to create more effective coping strategies, and to help clients attain happiness and peace. I am thrilled to announce that I have joined the Lukin Center, a group of highly qualified clinicians with locations in Englewood, Hoboken, Ridgewood and Jersey City, NJ.
(201) 292-6764 View (201) 292-6764
Photo of Peter J Paterno, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Peter J Paterno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I utilize a variety of short term treatment approaches including CBT and EMDR to help clients effect change in their lives and overcome obstacles in their way that keep them from attaining their goals.
"Helping clients to promote meaningful change in their lives." Overcome anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, relationship challenges, OCD and substance abuse. Working with Teens to adults in a warm, comfortable and supportive professional space.
I utilize a variety of short term treatment approaches including CBT and EMDR to help clients effect change in their lives and overcome obstacles in their way that keep them from attaining their goals.
"Helping clients to promote meaningful change in their lives." Overcome anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, relationship challenges, OCD and substance abuse. Working with Teens to adults in a warm, comfortable and supportive professional space.
(201) 731-2007 View (201) 731-2007
Photo of Staci Benaroya, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Staci Benaroya
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I offer EMDR therapy on it's own or alongside Attachment-Based therapy.
I'm not your average trauma therapist. Hi, I'm Staci and I'm a modern psychotherapist for post-grad "Quarter-Life" New Yorkers. Triggering events and major life transitions you're facing are leading you to feel stuck, lost, isolated, worried and stressed AF. I help you FINALLY get a grip on your anxiety so you can unlock your full potential. My east-meets-west mind-body approach is modern, relatable, collaborative. I meet you where YOU are and work with you from here to create a safe, sacred space for you to reflect on your strengths and challenges, gain insight, and move towards meaningful and lasting change.
I offer EMDR therapy on it's own or alongside Attachment-Based therapy.
I'm not your average trauma therapist. Hi, I'm Staci and I'm a modern psychotherapist for post-grad "Quarter-Life" New Yorkers. Triggering events and major life transitions you're facing are leading you to feel stuck, lost, isolated, worried and stressed AF. I help you FINALLY get a grip on your anxiety so you can unlock your full potential. My east-meets-west mind-body approach is modern, relatable, collaborative. I meet you where YOU are and work with you from here to create a safe, sacred space for you to reflect on your strengths and challenges, gain insight, and move towards meaningful and lasting change.
(914) 653-7729 View (914) 653-7729
Photo of Maria Stone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Maria Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Therapy can open the door to so many positive changes in our lives. Working together we can discover new ways to create a healthy mind, body and spirit, and move forward on our personal pathway to growth. My services include psychotherapy for children, adolescents and young adults, as well as working with families, couples and individuals. My goal with each client is to develop a collaborative and trusting relationship. Through therapeutic techniques we can ease stress, depression and anxiety, work to resolve conflict, build self-esteem, and address other concerns that are interfering with day-to-day life.
Therapy can open the door to so many positive changes in our lives. Working together we can discover new ways to create a healthy mind, body and spirit, and move forward on our personal pathway to growth. My services include psychotherapy for children, adolescents and young adults, as well as working with families, couples and individuals. My goal with each client is to develop a collaborative and trusting relationship. Through therapeutic techniques we can ease stress, depression and anxiety, work to resolve conflict, build self-esteem, and address other concerns that are interfering with day-to-day life.
(201) 478-8284 View (201) 478-8284
Photo of Alan Lerner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Alan Lerner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Hope. Healing. Understanding. You deserve to live a fulfilling life with healthy relationships and satisfying life choices. I look forward to helping you along that journey. It is natural and common to be "blocked" or "stuck" as one travels through life's challenges. It is normal to feel sad, frustrated, confused... to feel like no one understands what you are going through, even a partner or your family members. I am an experienced clinician who has successfully helped many individuals, couples and families understand the barriers to meeting their needs and identify the ways and means to move forward.
Hope. Healing. Understanding. You deserve to live a fulfilling life with healthy relationships and satisfying life choices. I look forward to helping you along that journey. It is natural and common to be "blocked" or "stuck" as one travels through life's challenges. It is normal to feel sad, frustrated, confused... to feel like no one understands what you are going through, even a partner or your family members. I am an experienced clinician who has successfully helped many individuals, couples and families understand the barriers to meeting their needs and identify the ways and means to move forward.
(201) 292-0566 View (201) 292-0566
Photo of Jucelia Pitt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Jucelia Pitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
I also provide EMDR and R-TEP therapy.
I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. My training and experience includes individual, families and couples psychotherapy. If you're suffering from issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, low self-esteem, self-harm, loss, grief, couples issues, domestic abuse (male and female), divorce and addiction, you'll find a safe environment to uncover meaningful insights, move through challenging emotions, recover and flourish.
I also provide EMDR and R-TEP therapy.
I offer a highly personalized approach tailored to each individual's needs in a comfortable and supportive atmosphere. My training and experience includes individual, families and couples psychotherapy. If you're suffering from issues such as anxiety, depression, mood disorders, low self-esteem, self-harm, loss, grief, couples issues, domestic abuse (male and female), divorce and addiction, you'll find a safe environment to uncover meaningful insights, move through challenging emotions, recover and flourish.
(201) 790-5235 View (201) 790-5235

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Pauline Bergstein, Psychologist in Tenafly, NJ
Pauline Bergstein
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
I work with individuals with PTSD and dissociative disorders and I am trained in the administration of EMDR.
In the over twenty years that I have been in the clinical practice of psychotherapy, I remain amazed by the tenacity and resilience of the human spirit. I respect the human capacity to survive and adapt to challenges - big and small, acute and chronic - but also the ability to make change given the right circumstances. It has been an honor to witness and be part of many individuals’ journeys to a better and more satisfying life using psychotherapy. Sometimes peoples’ ability to change has seemed miraculous. Through my training, many modalities have been embedded into my practice including cognitive-behavioral techniques.
I work with individuals with PTSD and dissociative disorders and I am trained in the administration of EMDR.
In the over twenty years that I have been in the clinical practice of psychotherapy, I remain amazed by the tenacity and resilience of the human spirit. I respect the human capacity to survive and adapt to challenges - big and small, acute and chronic - but also the ability to make change given the right circumstances. It has been an honor to witness and be part of many individuals’ journeys to a better and more satisfying life using psychotherapy. Sometimes peoples’ ability to change has seemed miraculous. Through my training, many modalities have been embedded into my practice including cognitive-behavioral techniques.
(201) 824-6954 View (201) 824-6954
Photo of Hila Revah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Hila Revah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bergenfield, NJ 07621
I am trained in EMDR for trauma and PTSD.
Often times just when things seem difficult, hopeless, or challenging we tend to retreat inward and isolate, when in truth, this is the precise moment that we need to reach out and form human connection. Therapy is a gift, it is the first step in your self care journey, so congrats on getting this far! I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and safe space so that clients can feel comfortable sharing even the most uncomfortable life circumstances. I start where the client is at, and together we explore objectives and set goals.
I am trained in EMDR for trauma and PTSD.
Often times just when things seem difficult, hopeless, or challenging we tend to retreat inward and isolate, when in truth, this is the precise moment that we need to reach out and form human connection. Therapy is a gift, it is the first step in your self care journey, so congrats on getting this far! I offer a warm, non-judgmental, and safe space so that clients can feel comfortable sharing even the most uncomfortable life circumstances. I start where the client is at, and together we explore objectives and set goals.
(551) 243-7373 View (551) 243-7373
Photo of E. Christina Kim, Psychologist in Tenafly, NJ
E. Christina Kim
Psychologist, PhD, LMHC, LMSW
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As a clinical psychologist/psychoanalyst with a specialized focus on children, adolescents, adults, and families, I accompany my clients in meeting their personal goals and in improving relationships.I am particularly sensitive to multicultural issues and I work collaboratively with each client based on their specific needs. I specialize in different forms of psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and psycho-dynamic therapy. I also work with individual patients using EMDR, a therapeutic technique to clear traumatic experiences which get "stuck" in emotions, body and brain and cause symptoms which bring clients into therapy.
As a clinical psychologist/psychoanalyst with a specialized focus on children, adolescents, adults, and families, I accompany my clients in meeting their personal goals and in improving relationships.I am particularly sensitive to multicultural issues and I work collaboratively with each client based on their specific needs. I specialize in different forms of psychotherapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy and psycho-dynamic therapy. I also work with individual patients using EMDR, a therapeutic technique to clear traumatic experiences which get "stuck" in emotions, body and brain and cause symptoms which bring clients into therapy.
(718) 705-4718 View (718) 705-4718
Photo of Evi Robinson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Evi Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpine, NJ 07620  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques including psychodynamic, EMDR, IFS, relational therapy and mindfulness practice.
Through my experience as a therapist, I have learned that asking stimulating questions in a trusting, safe, non-judgmental space empowers people to process past experiences and understand how that history impacts relationships and decision-making today. My approach to therapy is focused on a positive and collaborative therapeutic relationship and my belief that everyone has the ability to conquer their fears and overcome hardships.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques including psychodynamic, EMDR, IFS, relational therapy and mindfulness practice.
Through my experience as a therapist, I have learned that asking stimulating questions in a trusting, safe, non-judgmental space empowers people to process past experiences and understand how that history impacts relationships and decision-making today. My approach to therapy is focused on a positive and collaborative therapeutic relationship and my belief that everyone has the ability to conquer their fears and overcome hardships.
(347) 537-4761 View (347) 537-4761
Photo of Amanda Wasserman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Amanda Wasserman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alpine, NJ 07620
Through a highly individualized process, we may use EMDR, IFS and inner child healing to achieve a state of empowerment, authenticity & inner peace.
If you often feel taken for granted, hurt, emotionally exhausted, under-appreciated, resentful or left feeling guilty when saying no to others it is likely that your boundaries are often crossed. Do you often find yourself over-explaining, feeling guilty if people are disappointed with you or not wanting to rock the boat? One of the most painful tasks in relationships is setting and maintaining healthy boundaries. We all have an internal gauge for how much to give or take. Nonetheless, when we were raised on not having emotional needs, setting boundaries becomes very taxing and confusing because we learned how to hide our feelings.
Through a highly individualized process, we may use EMDR, IFS and inner child healing to achieve a state of empowerment, authenticity & inner peace.
If you often feel taken for granted, hurt, emotionally exhausted, under-appreciated, resentful or left feeling guilty when saying no to others it is likely that your boundaries are often crossed. Do you often find yourself over-explaining, feeling guilty if people are disappointed with you or not wanting to rock the boat? One of the most painful tasks in relationships is setting and maintaining healthy boundaries. We all have an internal gauge for how much to give or take. Nonetheless, when we were raised on not having emotional needs, setting boundaries becomes very taxing and confusing because we learned how to hide our feelings.
(551) 214-1715 View (551) 214-1715
Photo of Joseph Skunca, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Joseph Skunca
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Dumont, NJ 07628
Not accepting new clients
Most people find it quite difficult to begin seeing a therapist regardless of the reason. It does not seem natural to expose one's innermost struggles to a complete stranger. After working in the field for 27 years I have found that the initial discomfort felt by many dissipates rather quickly when they encounter a warm, supportive person who offers genuine hope.
Most people find it quite difficult to begin seeing a therapist regardless of the reason. It does not seem natural to expose one's innermost struggles to a complete stranger. After working in the field for 27 years I have found that the initial discomfort felt by many dissipates rather quickly when they encounter a warm, supportive person who offers genuine hope.
(201) 771-8857 View (201) 771-8857
Photo of Lisa Model Schnall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Tenafly, NJ
Lisa Model Schnall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631
Is life becoming too much to bear? Are you carrying the weight of overwhelming feelings that you just can't seem to shake off.? Sometimes taking that first step to share your story with an experienced professional can provide relief toward healing. In a safe, confidential environment we can understand and work through the myriad of feelings that are keeping you from peace of mind and daily well-being
Is life becoming too much to bear? Are you carrying the weight of overwhelming feelings that you just can't seem to shake off.? Sometimes taking that first step to share your story with an experienced professional can provide relief toward healing. In a safe, confidential environment we can understand and work through the myriad of feelings that are keeping you from peace of mind and daily well-being
(551) 236-6891 View (551) 236-6891
Photo of Yehuda Morrison- Trauma And Attachment Informed Therapy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Tenafly, NJ
Yehuda Morrison- Trauma And Attachment Informed Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, CSAT
Verified Verified
Bergenfield, NJ 07621
Are you seeking a path to healing and transformation for trauma, sex addiction, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns? In the world of mental health and psychotherapy, there are various approaches that offer hope and healing for individuals facing a wide array of challenges, from trauma and sex addiction to anxiety and depression. Three powerful therapeutic modalities stand out in this transformative process: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Ego State Interventions, and Attachment-Based Approaches.
Are you seeking a path to healing and transformation for trauma, sex addiction, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns? In the world of mental health and psychotherapy, there are various approaches that offer hope and healing for individuals facing a wide array of challenges, from trauma and sex addiction to anxiety and depression. Three powerful therapeutic modalities stand out in this transformative process: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Ego State Interventions, and Attachment-Based Approaches.
(201) 464-9659 View (201) 464-9659
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.