EMDR Therapists in 43085

Photo of Yvonne Judge, Marriage & Family Therapist in 43085, OH
Yvonne Judge
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT, CCHt, MAMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I am a COUPLE counseling and TRAUMA specialist, EMDR consultant in training and MFT supervisor candidate. Are you ready to make a difference in your relationship? Are you ready for change and want to see forward motion quickly? I practice proven methods of relationship therapy that will help you go from argument to compromise and move from conflict to cooperation. If you want to have a trusting, caring, intimate relationship, let's talk!
I am a COUPLE counseling and TRAUMA specialist, EMDR consultant in training and MFT supervisor candidate. Are you ready to make a difference in your relationship? Are you ready for change and want to see forward motion quickly? I practice proven methods of relationship therapy that will help you go from argument to compromise and move from conflict to cooperation. If you want to have a trusting, caring, intimate relationship, let's talk!
(614) 892-9813 View (614) 892-9813
Photo of Sue Mocniak, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 43085, OH
Sue Mocniak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Feeling stuck? You will benefit from proven therapies like EMDR and Mindfulness Stress Reduction, to extinguish the power of negative thoughts & behaviors, giving you a renewed outlook on your life & relationships.
Finding a counselor can be a difficult and frustrating process but it's worth the effort if you find the right match. My goal is to create an environment that you feel safe to share your story and the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing. I believe the counseling process is about YOU - at this point - on the timeline of your life's journey. My desire is to help you process and alleviate your emotional distress so you may discover a sense of clarity, freedom & renewed outlook on your life and relationships. www.restorecounsel.com
Feeling stuck? You will benefit from proven therapies like EMDR and Mindfulness Stress Reduction, to extinguish the power of negative thoughts & behaviors, giving you a renewed outlook on your life & relationships.
Finding a counselor can be a difficult and frustrating process but it's worth the effort if you find the right match. My goal is to create an environment that you feel safe to share your story and the thoughts and feelings you are experiencing. I believe the counseling process is about YOU - at this point - on the timeline of your life's journey. My desire is to help you process and alleviate your emotional distress so you may discover a sense of clarity, freedom & renewed outlook on your life and relationships. www.restorecounsel.com
(614) 980-0046 View (614) 980-0046
Photo of Cynthia M. Clingan, Licensed Professional Counselor in 43085, OH
Cynthia M. Clingan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, PCC, SEP
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
I help clients with many different things: relationship issues, spiritual questions, and finding greater meaning in their lives, as well as trauma of all kinds, and difficulty with managing emotions, anxiety, and depression. I integrate many approaches that can help you build the connection to and confidence in your own inner guidance, including but not limited to: mindfulness, Integral Somatic Psychology (ISP), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Transforming Touch, EMDR, transpersonal psychology, Bodynamics, attachment repair, biodynamic cranio-sacral, and psychoeducation, as well as coaching and direct inquiry.
I help clients with many different things: relationship issues, spiritual questions, and finding greater meaning in their lives, as well as trauma of all kinds, and difficulty with managing emotions, anxiety, and depression. I integrate many approaches that can help you build the connection to and confidence in your own inner guidance, including but not limited to: mindfulness, Integral Somatic Psychology (ISP), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Transforming Touch, EMDR, transpersonal psychology, Bodynamics, attachment repair, biodynamic cranio-sacral, and psychoeducation, as well as coaching and direct inquiry.
(614) 547-2187 View (614) 547-2187
Photo of Meredith Thorn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 43085, OH
Meredith Thorn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43085
Waitlist for new clients
I blend relational and attachment-focused methods, using EMDR, DBT, somatic therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Do you often feel misunderstood and isolated, navigating through constant states of fight, flight, freeze, and fawn? Perhaps you struggle with regulating emotions, find yourself overwhelmed, and resort to self-harming behaviors or other ways to numb intense emotional pain. Chronic suicidal ideation may also be part of your experience. Do you deeply care about others, sometimes to your own detriment, and yearn for the ability to set and maintain boundaries? Building healthy relationships might be a challenge, leaving you feeling like an outsider. Relentless shame and guilt may be weighing heavily on you.
I blend relational and attachment-focused methods, using EMDR, DBT, somatic therapy, and Internal Family Systems.
Do you often feel misunderstood and isolated, navigating through constant states of fight, flight, freeze, and fawn? Perhaps you struggle with regulating emotions, find yourself overwhelmed, and resort to self-harming behaviors or other ways to numb intense emotional pain. Chronic suicidal ideation may also be part of your experience. Do you deeply care about others, sometimes to your own detriment, and yearn for the ability to set and maintain boundaries? Building healthy relationships might be a challenge, leaving you feeling like an outsider. Relentless shame and guilt may be weighing heavily on you.
(614) 858-8471 View (614) 858-8471
Photo of Brigitte Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 43085, OH
Brigitte Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
I utilize treatment modalities such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and I maintain a trauma-informed approach.
Immediate Openings! I believe individuals should drive their own therapy; I focus on a strengths-based approach centered on empowerment and self-determination. I am passionate about working with first responders, military personnel, and veterans. I am a registry member of Star Behavioral Health Providers, and I am a Certified First Responder Counselor.
I utilize treatment modalities such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and I maintain a trauma-informed approach.
Immediate Openings! I believe individuals should drive their own therapy; I focus on a strengths-based approach centered on empowerment and self-determination. I am passionate about working with first responders, military personnel, and veterans. I am a registry member of Star Behavioral Health Providers, and I am a Certified First Responder Counselor.
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Photo of David Root, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 43085, OH
David Root
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
I am trained in a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, and suicide prevention using the CAMS model.
I am a seasoned therapist and have experience working successfully with clients of all ages. I specialize in working with kids (10+), teens, and young adults experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma recovery, and behavioral challenges.
I am trained in a variety of evidence-based practices, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, and suicide prevention using the CAMS model.
I am a seasoned therapist and have experience working successfully with clients of all ages. I specialize in working with kids (10+), teens, and young adults experiencing a wide range of concerns, including depression, anxiety, grief/loss, trauma recovery, and behavioral challenges.
(614) 639-3063 View (614) 639-3063
Photo of Courtney Phelps, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in 43085, OH
Courtney Phelps
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Welcome to my profile and I am glad you're here! My name is Courtney and I am an MFT trainee at Revitalize You! I am currently working on completing my masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy through Capella University. I have passion for working with couples who struggle with low sexual desire, affairs and infidelity, and dealing with attachment injuries and trauma in the relationship. I enjoy working with individuals with a wide range of diagnoses and helping with emotion regulation and mindfulness skills through DBT and reducing distress in traumatic memories with clients using EMDR Flash.
Welcome to my profile and I am glad you're here! My name is Courtney and I am an MFT trainee at Revitalize You! I am currently working on completing my masters degree in Marriage and Family Therapy through Capella University. I have passion for working with couples who struggle with low sexual desire, affairs and infidelity, and dealing with attachment injuries and trauma in the relationship. I enjoy working with individuals with a wide range of diagnoses and helping with emotion regulation and mindfulness skills through DBT and reducing distress in traumatic memories with clients using EMDR Flash.
(614) 714-1331 View (614) 714-1331
Photo of Jill Marie Lam, Counselor in 43085, OH
Jill Marie Lam
Counselor, PhD, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
I specialize in a variety of therapies (Animal-Assisted, CBT, Nature, EMDR, Psychotherapy), life coaching, and psycho-educational assessments.
Are you experiencing challenges in your life? Have you ever thought that depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, or learning disabilities were preventing you from reaching your potential? Or maybe you have a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, behavior issues, ADHD, low self-esteem, or possibly a learning disability. If this sounds like you or your loved one, I can help. Many things can affect our ability to perform in our daily lives, yet often we don't know what is wrong.
I specialize in a variety of therapies (Animal-Assisted, CBT, Nature, EMDR, Psychotherapy), life coaching, and psycho-educational assessments.
Are you experiencing challenges in your life? Have you ever thought that depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, ADHD, or learning disabilities were preventing you from reaching your potential? Or maybe you have a loved one struggling with anxiety, depression, behavior issues, ADHD, low self-esteem, or possibly a learning disability. If this sounds like you or your loved one, I can help. Many things can affect our ability to perform in our daily lives, yet often we don't know what is wrong.
(614) 467-4111 View (614) 467-4111
Photo of Mandy Tata, Counselor in 43085, OH
Mandy Tata
Counselor, LPCC-S, LICDC , NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085
Hello and welcome, I assist individuals regarding a variety of concerns, including, anxiety & stress, trauma, depression, marital issues, relaxation, healthy coping skills, low self-esteem, life transitions, grief/loss, and communication issues. Some interventions I utilize are integrative, EMDR trained, CBT, eclectic, person-centered therapy, solution focused, and trauma informed care. My approach consists of collaborating with each individual based on their goals/values, unconditional positive regard, and building rapport and trust as establishing a strong therapeutic alliance.
Hello and welcome, I assist individuals regarding a variety of concerns, including, anxiety & stress, trauma, depression, marital issues, relaxation, healthy coping skills, low self-esteem, life transitions, grief/loss, and communication issues. Some interventions I utilize are integrative, EMDR trained, CBT, eclectic, person-centered therapy, solution focused, and trauma informed care. My approach consists of collaborating with each individual based on their goals/values, unconditional positive regard, and building rapport and trust as establishing a strong therapeutic alliance.
(614) 681-8552 View (614) 681-8552
Photo of Rachel Keay-McVay, Licensed Professional Counselor in 43085, OH
Rachel Keay-McVay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Worthington, OH 43085
Regarding treatment techniques, my specialty is EMDR, which can reduce the distressing association that may linger with a belief, memory, or sensation.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
Regarding treatment techniques, my specialty is EMDR, which can reduce the distressing association that may linger with a belief, memory, or sensation.
There is a curious habit that I've noticed, especially when working with teens, that clients will mostly only work on the "issue of the week." This can have numerous benefits and can also delay the client's progress on any underlying concerns or patterns. Ideally, once a client has agreed to their treatment goals, they continue to take attainable steps towards that goal in therapy and in their daily life. When a client feels comfortable with their therapist to share their thoughts, emotions, and vulnerabilities, then deeper work can happen.
(380) 333-4253 View (380) 333-4253
Photo of Jonathan Miller, Counselor in 43085, OH
Jonathan Miller
Counselor, EdM, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
I'm trained in therapies backed by years of research, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR.
Cheer up? Relax? Put the past in the past? If it's easier said than done, you don't have to do it alone. I welcome people whose emotions sometimes seem stronger than they are. With over twenty-five years of experience in private practice and community mental health, I've helped people face the hardest life has to offer.
I'm trained in therapies backed by years of research, such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR.
Cheer up? Relax? Put the past in the past? If it's easier said than done, you don't have to do it alone. I welcome people whose emotions sometimes seem stronger than they are. With over twenty-five years of experience in private practice and community mental health, I've helped people face the hardest life has to offer.
(614) 877-6499 View (614) 877-6499
Photo of Leslie Hansen, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 43085, OH
Leslie Hansen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I commonly use EMDR to treat individuals who have experienced physical, psychological or emotional trauma.
Since 2005, I have been privileged to work with adults to help improve communication, heal past traumas, and overcome difficult situations that have created emotional upheaval. Whether you are entering counseling with hopes of restoring a relationship, experiencing a new found sense of confidence, or simply knowing you will be heard, I would be honored to work with you. Through counseling, we work together to develop a plan that will help you overcome your current situation and build a sense of strength and resilience so you know you can face other challenges with greater confidence.
I commonly use EMDR to treat individuals who have experienced physical, psychological or emotional trauma.
Since 2005, I have been privileged to work with adults to help improve communication, heal past traumas, and overcome difficult situations that have created emotional upheaval. Whether you are entering counseling with hopes of restoring a relationship, experiencing a new found sense of confidence, or simply knowing you will be heard, I would be honored to work with you. Through counseling, we work together to develop a plan that will help you overcome your current situation and build a sense of strength and resilience so you know you can face other challenges with greater confidence.
(614) 344-7596 View (614) 344-7596
Photo of Joel T Hardin, Counselor in 43085, OH
Joel T Hardin
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, LICDC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
Even though counseling often focuses on relieving distress, I view counseling as a way of helping people to flourish and to reach their goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I use many approaches, including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness. My past experience includes work at Maryhaven and Dublin Springs Hospital. I currently serve as the Director of Pathways Counseling Center in Westerville, where I have been in practice since 2013.
Even though counseling often focuses on relieving distress, I view counseling as a way of helping people to flourish and to reach their goals. I work with individuals, couples, families, and adolescents. I am a Supervising Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC-S), National Certified Counselor (NCC), and Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC). I use many approaches, including CBT, EMDR and Mindfulness. My past experience includes work at Maryhaven and Dublin Springs Hospital. I currently serve as the Director of Pathways Counseling Center in Westerville, where I have been in practice since 2013.
(614) 980-0460 View (614) 980-0460
Photo of Kelly Bulinski, Counselor in 43085, OH
Kelly Bulinski
Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Feeling Lost? Stuck? Anxious? Empty? Disconnected? Why struggle any longer? You may be working harder than necessary, fighting against patterns of feelings, thoughts & behaviors that developed over the years and no longer serve you. I work with clients healing from symptoms of PTSD, CPTSD, Dissociation, Attachment wounds, Depression, Anxiety & Eating Disorders. I am primarily a relational, attachment-based therapist and my training allows me to provide a holistic approach to treatment utilizing EMDR, Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), IFS, DBT skills, Somatic Psychotherapy techniques and Mindfulness practices.
Feeling Lost? Stuck? Anxious? Empty? Disconnected? Why struggle any longer? You may be working harder than necessary, fighting against patterns of feelings, thoughts & behaviors that developed over the years and no longer serve you. I work with clients healing from symptoms of PTSD, CPTSD, Dissociation, Attachment wounds, Depression, Anxiety & Eating Disorders. I am primarily a relational, attachment-based therapist and my training allows me to provide a holistic approach to treatment utilizing EMDR, Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR), IFS, DBT skills, Somatic Psychotherapy techniques and Mindfulness practices.
(614) 465-3755 View (614) 465-3755
Photo of Dr. Rachel Bell, Marriage & Family Therapist in 43085, OH
Dr. Rachel Bell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, IMFT-S, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085
in Couple and Family Therapy and only use evidence-based approaches, such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness, EMDR, and play therapy.
Welcome! I'm so glad you found our practice! Searchlight Family Therapy offers child, adolescent, adult, couples, and family therapy statewide.  We provide both in-person and virtual sessions. As owner of Searchlight Family Therapy, I seek to offer our clients a full range of family therapy services in a place that feels welcoming and safe.  Whether you're new to therapy or are searching for the right fit, I hope we can provide you a supportive environment that challenges you and helps you grow. ​
in Couple and Family Therapy and only use evidence-based approaches, such as CBT, DBT, mindfulness, EMDR, and play therapy.
Welcome! I'm so glad you found our practice! Searchlight Family Therapy offers child, adolescent, adult, couples, and family therapy statewide.  We provide both in-person and virtual sessions. As owner of Searchlight Family Therapy, I seek to offer our clients a full range of family therapy services in a place that feels welcoming and safe.  Whether you're new to therapy or are searching for the right fit, I hope we can provide you a supportive environment that challenges you and helps you grow. ​
(440) 644-4576 View (440) 644-4576
Photo of Rebecca Hug, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 43085, OH
Rebecca Hug
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
I am certified in EMDR and utilize different therapy approaches (Narrative, Somatic, Gestalt, Existential, REBT) to help clients heal.
I serve people who are seeking to heal the ways that trauma has impacted their partnering, parenting, and professionalism. I work with clients to break generational and systemic trauma impacts, to teach what is "normal" in healthy relationships, how to not overreact, and how to stop being "numb" or "overly emotional" so that clients can learn to enjoy life (and believe they are worth having a good life).
I am certified in EMDR and utilize different therapy approaches (Narrative, Somatic, Gestalt, Existential, REBT) to help clients heal.
I serve people who are seeking to heal the ways that trauma has impacted their partnering, parenting, and professionalism. I work with clients to break generational and systemic trauma impacts, to teach what is "normal" in healthy relationships, how to not overreact, and how to stop being "numb" or "overly emotional" so that clients can learn to enjoy life (and believe they are worth having a good life).
(330) 859-4502 View (330) 859-4502
Photo of Theresa McClurg-Genevese, Counselor in 43085, OH
Theresa McClurg-Genevese
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085
 I also have been trained in Gottman Method Couples Counseling (Level 2) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma therapy.
No matter what our body size, we can find ourselves out of balance with our eating, thoughts, and emotions when we are desperately trying to stay afloat with the demands of life, family, work, and other obligations. Instead of acknowledging what we do well, we may focus on our shortcomings and criticize our abilities and bodies. A vicious cycle of trying to control our weight and eating can lead to further criticism, guilt and disappoinment. At Eating & Behavioral Health Associates, I work with adults of all sizes and body types to find compassion and ease in their life by bringing balance into their thinking, eating and behaviors.
 I also have been trained in Gottman Method Couples Counseling (Level 2) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma therapy.
No matter what our body size, we can find ourselves out of balance with our eating, thoughts, and emotions when we are desperately trying to stay afloat with the demands of life, family, work, and other obligations. Instead of acknowledging what we do well, we may focus on our shortcomings and criticize our abilities and bodies. A vicious cycle of trying to control our weight and eating can lead to further criticism, guilt and disappoinment. At Eating & Behavioral Health Associates, I work with adults of all sizes and body types to find compassion and ease in their life by bringing balance into their thinking, eating and behaviors.
(614) 681-8453 View (614) 681-8453
Photo of Abigail Sims, Licensed Professional Counselor in 43085, OH
Abigail Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, MHCA, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085  (Online Only)
I use a combination of attachment therapy, person-centered therapy, and EMDR with an emphasis on teaching self-regulation skills.
Have you ever had a behavior you didn't like or understand? Have you ever felt emotions that were confusing to you? I love helping clients learn the root of their behaviors and triggers to help them heal their relationship to themselves and others. I am committed to creating a safe, authentic environment where clients can always feel comfortable being who they are. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families with complex trauma (CPTSD), PTSD, religious trauma, mood disorders, and attachment and relationship issues.
I use a combination of attachment therapy, person-centered therapy, and EMDR with an emphasis on teaching self-regulation skills.
Have you ever had a behavior you didn't like or understand? Have you ever felt emotions that were confusing to you? I love helping clients learn the root of their behaviors and triggers to help them heal their relationship to themselves and others. I am committed to creating a safe, authentic environment where clients can always feel comfortable being who they are. I have experience working with individuals, couples, and families with complex trauma (CPTSD), PTSD, religious trauma, mood disorders, and attachment and relationship issues.
(234) 351-3404 View (234) 351-3404
Photo of Emily Lacy, Counselor in 43085, OH
Emily Lacy
Counselor, MA, LPCC, LPCA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Columbus, OH 43085
Waitlist for new clients
Providing education and facts surrounding sex, intimacy, and relationships is so important, especially when it was absent or shrouded in fear, shame, or mystery while growing up. Too many of us have received inaccurate or little information about sex and our bodies. I want to provide a space for you to explore and understand how sex and intimacy fit in with who you are now to promote safety, pleasure, and connection. I am EMDR trained and am in the process of completing my Sex Therapist Certification.
Providing education and facts surrounding sex, intimacy, and relationships is so important, especially when it was absent or shrouded in fear, shame, or mystery while growing up. Too many of us have received inaccurate or little information about sex and our bodies. I want to provide a space for you to explore and understand how sex and intimacy fit in with who you are now to promote safety, pleasure, and connection. I am EMDR trained and am in the process of completing my Sex Therapist Certification.
(513) 995-1317 View (513) 995-1317
Photo of Anne Brady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 43085, OH
Anne Brady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Worthington, OH 43085
I am trained in CBT, Family Systems, MI, EMDR, as well as other evidence-based modalities.
Do you struggle with anxiety, panic, perfectionism, burnout, and a general sense of not being enough? Sometimes that looks like overworking, drowning in motherhood, or not being able to pin down exactly what doesn’t feel good in your life – just knowing that something is off. My deepest passion is helping women begin taking up space in their own life; typically that looks like a good balance of practicing new skills (setting boundaries, self-connection, communication, self-care, etc) while also exploring and healing deeply-held beliefs that make it difficult to do those skills on your own.
I am trained in CBT, Family Systems, MI, EMDR, as well as other evidence-based modalities.
Do you struggle with anxiety, panic, perfectionism, burnout, and a general sense of not being enough? Sometimes that looks like overworking, drowning in motherhood, or not being able to pin down exactly what doesn’t feel good in your life – just knowing that something is off. My deepest passion is helping women begin taking up space in their own life; typically that looks like a good balance of practicing new skills (setting boundaries, self-connection, communication, self-care, etc) while also exploring and healing deeply-held beliefs that make it difficult to do those skills on your own.
(614) 683-5902 View (614) 683-5902
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.