Connect With Me →

Michiel Bosman MD PhD

EMDR- and IFS-trained Psychiatrist

 

 

04 April 2025

Find an EMDR Therapist near me. Frequently Asked Questions

Find an EMDR therapist for treatment near you

Welcome to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) section for those of you searching for EMDR therapy near you. If you're looking for a local EMDR therapist to help resolve trauma, anxiety, or other related issues, you've come to the right place. Many individuals begin their healing journey by seeking EMDR therapy in their local area, and this FAQ is designed to answer your initial questions about finding and accessing these services. I understand the importance of finding the right support close to home and are here to guide you in understanding how to locate an evidence-based EMDR therapist in your neck of the woods.

TL;DR: Need to heal from trauma or anxiety?

I'm a psychiatrist offering online EMDR therapy, an evidence-based approach that helps reprocess disturbing memories. EMDR uses techniques like bilateral stimulation (BLS) and is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. Get the convenience and accessibility of online therapy from the comfort of your home. Connect with me!

What is the average success rate of EMDR therapy near me for treating phobias?

Research indicates that EMDR therapy is an evidence-based therapy for anxiety and other mental health conditions, which can include phobias. While skilled EMDR therapists cannot promise a success rate for EMDR therapy near you in treating phobias, we know many people can benefit from EMDR. Success rates can vary depending on individual factors and the specific phobia. It's best to consult with an EMDR therapist near you to discuss the potential benefits for your specific situation.

What should I expect during my first EMDR therapy session near me?

During your first EMDR therapy session near you, which is often the Assessment Phase, you can expect your EMDR therapist to gather information about your history and the issues you want to address. The therapist may explain EMDR therapy in simple terms, emphasizing key concepts like Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) and the use of bilateral stimulation (BLS) to reprocess disturbing memories. You might be asked to identify a target memory related to your distress, along with a negative belief (negative cognition) associated with it, and a positive belief (positive cognition) you would like to have instead. Your trained therapist will likely ask you to rate the intensity of your current distress related to the target memory using a Subjective Units of Disturbance (SUD) scale and the degree to which you believe the positive cognition using a Validity of Cognition (VoC) scale. The therapist may also introduce grounding techniques. It is crucial for the therapist to write down your exact wording during this phase.

Can I receive EMDR therapy near me for grief and loss?

EMDR therapy has been established as an evidence-based treatment for trauma, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.r Gief and loss can often involve traumatic aspects. EMDR therapy aims to reprocess disturbing life experiences and reduce their emotional impact, which could potentially be beneficial in processing the distress associated with grief and loss. To find an EMDR therapist near you who can help with grief and loss, look for therapists who specialize in trauma therapy and bereavement.

Can I receive EMDR therapy near me for phobias and fears?

Yes, you can receive EMDR therapy near you for phobias and fears. We know that EMDR is an evidence-based therapy for anxiety and other mental health conditions. Phobias and fears are significant components of anxiety disorders. An EMDR therapist can help you target the memories and emotional responses underlying your phobias and fears and use bilateral stimulation (BLS) to facilitate reprocessing these experiences, helping you to recover from trauma or distress associated with them. You can find an EMDR therapist near you who specialize in trauma therapy and anxiety disorders.

Are there any EMDR therapy retreats near me?

To find out if there are any EMDR therapy centers near you offering EMDR therapy retreats, you would need to conduct a specific search for "EMDR retreats near me" or contact local EMDR therapists and clinics to inquire about such offerings.

How can I find EMDR therapy near me for addiction recovery?

EMDR therapy is often part of addiction recovery treatment, because addiction can often be intertwined with underlying trauma and distress. EMDR therapy, as a trauma therapy, may be a valuable component of a comprehensive addiction treatment plan by helping to reprocess traumatic memories that may contribute to addictive behaviors. To find an EMDR therapist near you who works with addiction recovery, it is recommended to search for therapists or EMDR therapy centers that specialize in both addiction and trauma therapy.

What are the potential side effects of EMDR therapy near me?

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing involves accessing and reprocessing disturbing life experiences and traumatic memories. This reprocessing can sometimes lead to a temporary increase in emotional intensity as memories are activated. You might also become aware of previously unconscious material or experience vivid dreams between sessions. A trained EMDR therapist near you should prepare you for these possibilities and provide strategies for managing any discomfort. It is important to discuss any concerns you have with your therapist.

Are there any EMDR therapy centers near me that offer holistic approaches?

Many EMDR therapy centers near you offer holistic approaches. The term "holistic" can encompass a variety of therapeutic modalities and a focus on the whole person. While EMDR therapy itself focuses on the psychological and emotional impact of experiences, whether a center offers a broader holistic approach would depend on the other services they provide. To find such a center, you would need to research individual EMDR therapy centers near you and inquire about their philosophy and range of services.

How can I locate a licensed EMDR therapist near me?

To locate a licensed EMDR therapist near you, you can use online directories provided by reputable organizations such as the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA). These directories often allow you to search for therapists by location, specialization (such as trauma therapy), and credentials, including certification in EMDR therapy. You can also check with your state's licensing board for mental health professionals to verify their licensure status. Searching for "find an EMDR therapist near me" online can also lead you to local practitioners.

Can I receive EMDR therapy near me remotely or online?

Yes, you can likely receive EMDR therapy near you remotely or online. The advantages of online therapy, such as convenience and accessibility, have been well established. Many EMDR therapists now offer virtual sessions, utilizing video conferencing platforms to deliver treatment. To find an EMDR therapist near you who provides online EMDR therapy, you can search online directories and filter your search for virtual sessions or specify your preference when contacting potential therapists.

Are there any EMDR therapists near me who offer virtual sessions?

Yes, it is increasingly common to find EMDR therapists near you who offer virtual sessions. The flexibility and accessibility of online therapy have made it a popular option for both clients and therapists. When searching for an EMDR therapist, you can often filter your results by those who provide online treatment. Websites of individual therapists and therapy centers usually indicate whether they offer virtual appointments.

Are there any EMDR therapy centers near me that offer sliding scale fees?

Some EMDR psychiatrists operating on a private pay basis may offer a limited number of sliding scale slots based on financial need. Whether EMDR therapy centers near you offer sliding scale fees would depend on the specific center's policies and funding. It is advisable to inquire about payment options, including sliding scales, when contacting therapy centers in your area.

Are there any EMDR therapists near me who are bilingual?

To find EMDR therapists near you who are bilingual, you would need to specifically search for this in online directories. Some directories allow you to filter by the therapist's language proficiencies. You can also inquire directly with EMDR therapy centers in your area to see if they have bilingual therapists on staff. 

Are there any EMDR therapists near me who offer online support between sessions?

Whether EMDR therapists offer online support between sessions, is a practice that can vary among individual therapists. Some may offer brief check-ins via email or a secure messaging platform, while others may reserve support for scheduled sessions. It is a good question to ask when you are consulting with potential EMDR therapists near you.

Are there any EMDR therapy centers near me that offer evening appointments?

The availability of evening appointments at EMDR therapy centers near you would depend on the specific center's operating hours and the schedules of their therapists. Many therapists understand the need for appointments outside of regular work hours and may offer evening sessions. You would need to check the websites of EMDR therapy centers in your area or contact them directly to inquire about their appointment availability.

Are there any EMDR therapy clinics near me?

Yes, there are likely EMDR therapy clinics near you. These are facilities that specialize in or offer EMDR therapy as one of their primary services. You can find an EMDR therapy clinic near you by searching online for "EMDR therapy clinic [your city]" or by looking through directories of mental health providers and filtering by treatment type.

How can I find a certified EMDR therapist near me?

To find a certified EMDR therapist near you, the best resource is the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) website. EMDRIA maintains a directory of certified EMDR therapists who have met specific training and supervision requirements. You can search this directory by location to find a qualified EMDR therapist in your area who has demonstrated a commitment to the EMDR standard of practice.

Are there any EMDR therapy clinics near me that offer weekend appointments?

Similar to evening appointments, the availability of weekend appointments at EMDR therapy clinics near you would vary depending on the clinic's scheduling policies and the preferences of their therapists. Some clinics may offer weekend sessions to accommodate clients with busy weekday schedules. You would need to contact individual clinics in your area to inquire about their weekend availability.

What are the costs associated with EMDR therapy near me?

The costs associated with EMDR therapy near you can vary depending on several factors, including the therapist's qualifications, experience, location, and whether they accept insurance. Some EMDR therapists operate on a private pay basis, while others may be in-network with certain insurance providers. It is also possible to find EMDR therapy centers near you that offer a limited number of sliding scale slots based on financial need. The best way to determine the cost is to contact potential therapists directly and inquire about their fees and payment options.

Are there any EMDR therapy centers near me that offer group sessions?

While individual EMDR therapy is the standard format, some centers might explore group approaches for certain issues. You would need to research EMDR therapy centers in your locality to see if they advertise or offer EMDR therapy in a group setting.

What are the common issues that EMDR therapy near me can help with?

EMDR therapy near you can help with a range of issues, primarily those related to trauma and distressEMDR is an evidence-based therapy for trauma, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. Its use is also popular in addressing PTSD, reprocessing traumatic memories and difficult life experiences, and helping individuals recover from trauma. Common issues include but are not limited to: post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety disorders, panic attacks, phobias, disturbing memories, and emotional distress related to past events.

What are the differences between EMDR therapy near me and traditional talk therapy?

The key differences between EMDR therapy near you and traditional talk therapy lie in their approach to processing emotional distress. Traditional talk therapy often involves discussing problems, exploring patterns, gaining insight, and developing coping strategies through verbal communication. EMDR therapy, on the other hand, directly targets the neurological processing of traumatic memories using bilateral stimulation (BLS), such as eye movements, taps, or tones. The goal of EMDR is to reprocess disturbing memories and reduce their emotional impact by facilitating the brain's natural Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) system. While the therapeutic relationship is crucial in both, EMDR therapy involves specific protocols and phases, including the use of BLS to facilitate reprocessing, which is not a standard component of traditional talk therapy.

Can I receive EMDR therapy near me for complex trauma?

Yes, you can receive EMDR therapy near you for complex trauma. While the term "complex trauma" refers to repeated or prolonged exposure to traumatic events, EMDR therapy, as a recognized trauma therapy, is often used to treat individuals with various forms of trauma, including complex trauma. It's important to find an EMDR therapist near you who has specific experience and training in working with complex trauma. They will be able to tailor the EMDR protocol to address the multifaceted nature of complex traumatic experiences.

Can I receive EMDR therapy near me for anxiety and depression?

Yes, you can receive EMDR therapy near you for anxiety and depression. Anxiety and depression are often associated with trauma and negative life experiences, which EMDR therapy can address by helping to reprocess disturbing memories and reduce overall distress. Many EMDR therapists work with clients experiencing anxiety and depression, often with positive outcomes.

What is the success rate of EMDR therapy near me?

It is impossible to guarantee a specific success rate for EMDR therapy near you. Success rates for EMDR therapy, in general, are often reported to be high, particularly for PTSD and other trauma-related conditions. However, individual outcomes can vary depending on factors such as the specific issue being treated, the duration and severity of the trauma or distress, individual coping mechanisms, and the therapeutic relationship with the EMDR therapist. Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is well known for achieving profound treatment effects in a shorter period. It is best to discuss the potential success rate for your specific situation with an EMDR therapist near you during an initial consultation.

Are there any EMDR therapy centers near me that specialize in working with children?

EMDR therapy is used extensively for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma or distress. To find a therapist or center near you with expertise in child EMDR therapy, you would need to search online directories using keywords like "EMDR therapy for children [your city]" or contact local EMDR therapy centers to inquire about their clinicians' specializations and experience working with younger clients.

How can I schedule an appointment for EMDR therapy near me?

To schedule an appointment for EMDR therapy near you, you can start by finding an EMDR therapist through online directories (like EMDRIA) or by searching online for therapists in your area who offer EMDR therapy. Once you have identified a potential therapist or center, you can typically contact them directly via phone or through their website to inquire about scheduling an initial consultation. Due to demand, there may be a waiting list, and joining a mailing list might provide priority notification of openings.

How can I find EMDR therapy near me for veterans and first responders?

Veterans and first responders often experience trauma, and EMDR therapy is a recognized and effective trauma therapy for these populations. To find EMDR therapy near you that specializes in working with veterans and first responders, you can search online directories using these specific keywords, such as "EMDR for veterans [your city]" or "trauma therapy for first responders near me". Many therapists and therapy centers have specific experience and understanding of the unique challenges faced by these individuals and may highlight this on their websites.

How long does a typical EMDR therapy session near me last?

The exact length of an EMDR therapy session depends on you and your therapist's preferences. However, standard psychotherapy sessions usually range from 45 to 60 minutes. Initial EMDR sessions, particularly the Assessment Phase, might be slightly longer to gather necessary information. Subsequent EMDR reprocessing sessions may also vary in length depending on the client's processing and the therapist's approach. It is best to inquire about the typical session duration when you contact an EMDR therapist near you.

Are there any EMDR therapists near me who specialize in treating trauma?

Yes, there are likely many EMDR therapists near you who specialize in treating trauma. EMDR therapy was specifically developed as a treatment for trauma and PTSD, and a significant portion of EMDR therapists focus their practice on helping individuals recover from traumatic memories and life experiences. When searching for a therapist, you can filter by specialty or look for therapists who explicitly mention trauma therapy and EMDR as areas of expertise.

Can I receive EMDR therapy near me for insomnia and sleep disorders?

EMDR therapy usually is not a primary treatment for insomnia and sleep disorders. However, sleep disturbances can often be linked to underlying anxiety, trauma, and emotional distress. Since EMDR therapy is effective in addressing these issues by helping to reprocess disturbing memories and reduce emotional reactivity, it may indirectly improve sleep for some individuals. If your insomnia is related to trauma or anxiety, consulting with an EMDR therapist near you could be beneficial.

How many EMDR sessions near me are typically recommended for treating PTSD?

The number of EMDR sessions typically recommended for treating PTSD can vary significantly depending on the complexity and severity of the trauma, the individual's history, their coping mechanisms, and their progress in therapy. Some individuals may experience significant improvement in a relatively small number of sessions, while others with more complex trauma histories may require longer-term treatment. Your EMDR therapist near you will be able to provide a more personalized estimate after a thorough assessment.

How can I find reviews and testimonials of EMDR therapists near me?

You can find reviews and testimonials of EMDR therapists near you by checking their professional websites, Google My Business pages, and other online review platforms that allow clients to share their experiences. Be mindful that confidentiality is paramount in therapy, so testimonials will typically be general in nature. You can also ask for referrals from other healthcare professionals or trusted sources.

What is the success rate of EMDR therapy near me for treating OCD?

While EMDR therapy is primarily known for its effectiveness with trauma and anxiety disorders, OCD is a distinct condition with its own established treatment protocols, often involving Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) with Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). However, if there is a history of trauma underlying the OCD, EMDR therapy might be considered as part of a broader treatment approach.

Are there any EMDR therapists near me who offer pro bono services?

Pro bono services, which are free or reduced-fee services provided as a professional contribution, can be limited and depend on individual therapists' capacity and commitment to such work. You might inquire with local community mental health clinics or organizations that connect individuals with low-cost therapy options, as some EMDR-trained therapists may volunteer their services through these channels.

Are there any EMDR therapists near me who specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals?

To find EMDR therapists near you who specialize in working with LGBTQ+ individuals, you can use online directories that allow you to filter by the therapist's areas of specialization, cultural competence, or populations served. Many therapists who are affirming and knowledgeable about LGBTQ+ issues will indicate this in their profiles. You can also search for "LGBTQ+ affirming EMDR therapist [your city]".

What are the benefits of EMDR therapy near me?

The benefits of EMDR therapy near you include its potential to effectively reprocess disturbing memories and reduce the emotional distress associated with them. It is an evidence-based therapy for trauma, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. EMDR aims to help individuals recover from trauma by facilitating the brain's natural healing processes. It can lead to a decrease in negative beliefs, a reduction in physiological arousal, and an increase in a sense of safety and empowerment related to past traumatic events. The goal is to achieve comprehensive treatment effects in a shorter period while maintaining client stability.

What qualifications should I look for in an EMDR therapist near me?

When looking for an EMDR therapist near you, it is important to ensure they have the proper qualifications. Key qualifications to look for include:

  • Completion of EMDR basic training.
  • Certification by the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) is a strong indicator of advanced training and adherence to professional standards.
  • Licensure as a mental health professional (e.g., psychologist, psychiatrist, licensed clinical social worker, licensed professional counselor) in your state.
  • Experience in treating the specific issues you are facing, such as trauma, anxiety, or PTSD.
  • A commitment to creating a safe and understanding therapeutic relationship.
  • A clear understanding of the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model underlying EMDR therapy.

Where can I find EMDR therapy near me?

You can find EMDR therapy near you through several methods:

  • Online Search Engines: Use search terms like "EMDR therapy [your city]", "find an EMDR therapist near me", or "trauma therapy EMDR [your zip code]".
  • EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) Directory: Visit the EMDRIA website and use their "Find a Therapist" directory to search for certified EMDR therapists in your area.
  • Online Therapy Directories: Websites like Psychology Today, Zocdoc, and TherapyDen often allow you to filter therapists by their specialization in EMDR therapy and location.
  • Referrals: Ask your primary care physician, other healthcare providers, or trusted friends and family for referrals to EMDR therapists in your network.

What is the average cost of EMDR therapy near me?

The average cost of EMDR therapy near you can vary widely based on factors such as the therapist's credentials and experience, their location, and whether they are in-network with your insurance provider. In general, fees for psychotherapy sessions can range from $75 to $250 or more per session. Some EMDR therapists may offer a limited number of sliding scale slots. It is best to contact individual therapists directly to inquire about their fees and payment policies.

Are there any EMDR therapy centers near me that accept insurance?

Yes, many EMDR therapy centers near you do accept insurance. Whether a particular center is in-network with your specific insurance plan depends on their agreements with insurance companies. When searching for EMDR therapy centers, you can often filter by insurance accepted, or you can contact the center directly to inquire about their insurance policies and whether they accept your plan. Remember to also verify your coverage with your insurance provider.

How do I know if EMDR therapy is right for me?

To determine if EMDR therapy is right for you, consider whether you have experienced trauma or significant life experiences that continue to cause you distress, anxiety, or other related symptoms. Read more about EMDR therapy and its principles, such as the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. You can also look for EMDR therapists near you who offer free initial consultations. This can be a valuable opportunity to discuss your specific concerns with a trained professional, ask questions about the EMDR process, and get their professional opinion on whether EMDR therapy might be a suitable approach for you.

Are there any EMDR therapists near me who offer free consultations?

Yes, many EMDR therapists near you offer free initial consultations, typically lasting 15-30 minutes. These consultations provide an opportunity for you to briefly discuss your reasons for seeking therapy, learn more about the therapist's approach to EMDR therapy, and ask any initial questions you may have. It's a way to see if you feel comfortable with the therapist and if their services seem like a good fit for your needs before committing to ongoing sessions. Check the websites of EMDR therapists in your area or inquire when you contact them.

How can I verify the credentials of an EMDR therapist near me?

You can verify the credentials of an EMDR therapist near you through several steps:

  • Check their website: Look for information about their education, licensure, certifications (including EMDRIA certification), and professional affiliations.
  • Consult the EMDRIA Directory: If the therapist claims to be certified in EMDR therapy, you can verify their status on the EMDR International Association's website.
  • Check State Licensing Boards: Verify their license to practice as a mental health professional (e.g., psychologist, social worker, counselor) through your state's licensing board website.
  • Ask for Credentials: You can directly ask the therapist about their training and qualifications in EMDR therapy during an initial consultation.

How can I find EMDR therapy near me for performance anxiety?

Yes, you can find EMDR therapy near you for performance anxiety. Anxiety, including performance anxiety, is one of the conditions that EMDR therapy can effectively address. You can search for EMDR therapists near you who list anxiety disorders or trauma therapy as their specialties, as performance anxiety can sometimes have underlying traumatic or distressing experiences contributing to it. Using search terms like "EMDR for performance anxiety [your city]" can also help you find relevant therapists.

Concluding thoughts

I hope this FAQ has provided helpful answers to your questions about finding EMDR therapy near you. Remember, EMDR therapy is a powerful approach that aims to reprocess disturbing memories and reduce their emotional impact. Taking the step to find a local therapist who is trained and experienced in EMDR is a crucial part of this process. While this FAQ offers general information, connecting with a therapist in your area will allow you to discuss your specific needs and determine if EMDR is the right fit for you. I encourage you to explore local mental health resources and directories as mentioned in the blog post template and to reach out to individual practitioners to learn more about their services and expertise.

Interested in online EMDR? Connect with me!

By using this site you agree to our terms and conditions. The Open Forest website is medical in nature and thus, may include health or medical information. This content is posted for informational and educational purposes only. Open Forest in no way engages in the practice of medicine and does not render medical advice. We do not provide asynchronous telemental health services or any other medical service. Nothing posted on Open Forest is intended to be used for the purposes of medical diagnosis or treatment. The use of Open Forest does not create a provider/patient relationship between a user and Open Forest. Users must always seek the advice of their physician or another qualified healthcare professional with medical questions. Users must agree to contact their healthcare professional or an emergency medical service, by dialing 911 when they believe they are experiencing a medical emergency.