EMDR Therapists in Crawford County, AR

Photo of Diane D Bynum - Lumina Behavioral Health, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-TH, LADAC, ADC CSD
Lumina Behavioral Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-TH, LADAC, ADC CSD
Verified Verified
Van Buren, AR 72956
EMDR and addiction specialists are available.
Lumina Behavioral Health in Van Buren, AR. serve men 18 years old and above in a residential setting for substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. Lumina serves both men and women 18 years or older in day treatment services such as partial hospitalization or intensive outpatient at the Van Buren location. Outpatient services either in person or tele/health is offered for mental health services. Insurances are accepted.
EMDR and addiction specialists are available.
Lumina Behavioral Health in Van Buren, AR. serve men 18 years old and above in a residential setting for substance abuse and co-occurring disorders. Lumina serves both men and women 18 years or older in day treatment services such as partial hospitalization or intensive outpatient at the Van Buren location. Outpatient services either in person or tele/health is offered for mental health services. Insurances are accepted.
(479) 349-4906 View (479) 349-4906
Photo of Shelby Knapple - Wholistic Health, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-TA, NCC
Wholistic Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-TA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Van Buren, AR 72956
Specifically, we provide EMDR therapy which is helpful when a person is feeling “stuck” on a particular emotion or traumatic memory, as well as play therapy for kids and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or CBT for adults.
Wholistic Health can perform psychological testing for learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, and behavior issues. Other testing services include career assessments to show where your individual occupational interests and skills match in today's workforce. We also offer college credit-by-exam testing to accelerate your degree path.
Specifically, we provide EMDR therapy which is helpful when a person is feeling “stuck” on a particular emotion or traumatic memory, as well as play therapy for kids and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or CBT for adults.
Wholistic Health can perform psychological testing for learning difficulties, ADHD, autism, and behavior issues. Other testing services include career assessments to show where your individual occupational interests and skills match in today's workforce. We also offer college credit-by-exam testing to accelerate your degree path.
(479) 888-8187 View (479) 888-8187
Photo of Melissa Huff, Counselor, MS, LPC, LAMFT
Melissa Huff
Counselor, MS, LPC, LAMFT
Verified Verified
Van Buren, AR 72956
To help you walk through your journey I use CBT, person-centered therapy, EMDR, and Gottman method couples’ therapy.
Do you feel as if your life has a “before” and “after?” Do you feel stuck, like you can’t shake what happened to you or your relationships? I would love the opportunity to help you make sense of your story and build your path forward. - ¿Sientes como si tu vida tuviera un “antes” y un “después”? ¿Te sientes atascado, como si no pudieras deshacerte de lo que te ha pasado a ti o a tus relaciones? Me encantaría tener la oportunidad de ayudarte a dar sentido a tu historia y construir tu camino hacia adelante.
To help you walk through your journey I use CBT, person-centered therapy, EMDR, and Gottman method couples’ therapy.
Do you feel as if your life has a “before” and “after?” Do you feel stuck, like you can’t shake what happened to you or your relationships? I would love the opportunity to help you make sense of your story and build your path forward. - ¿Sientes como si tu vida tuviera un “antes” y un “después”? ¿Te sientes atascado, como si no pudieras deshacerte de lo que te ha pasado a ti o a tus relaciones? Me encantaría tener la oportunidad de ayudarte a dar sentido a tu historia y construir tu camino hacia adelante.
(479) 777-2411 View (479) 777-2411
Photo of Natasha M. Poindexter, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, TA
Natasha M. Poindexter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, TA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Specialized trainings: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0-5), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Certified TeleMental Health (TA)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I especially enjoy working with individuals, families, and relationships facing a variety of challenges. Life can be difficult and we face many obstacles along the way. As your therapist, I will walk along side you and honor the journey you are on, while providing insight into ways to improve your overall functioning and well-being.
Specialized trainings: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Diagnostic Classification of Mental Health and Developmental Disorders of Infancy and Early Childhood (DC:0-5), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Certified TeleMental Health (TA)
As a Licensed Professional Counselor, I especially enjoy working with individuals, families, and relationships facing a variety of challenges. Life can be difficult and we face many obstacles along the way. As your therapist, I will walk along side you and honor the journey you are on, while providing insight into ways to improve your overall functioning and well-being.
(479) 337-7414 View (479) 337-7414
Photo of Dr. Deborah Braboy, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Dr. Deborah Braboy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am a Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist and have watched clients become released from traumatic pasts using EMDR.
My goal is for my clients to feel hope when they leave my office. I believe there are times when folks are lacking the tools to get back on track after they have been derailed by life. I believe healing starts within the therapeutic relationship and I look forward to connecting with clients! My job is to help them on their journey in working toward a healthy outlook and better connections in their relationships. I enjoy working with those who are dealing with grief & loss issues, trauma, relationship struggles, anyone who just need someone who cares.
I am a Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist and have watched clients become released from traumatic pasts using EMDR.
My goal is for my clients to feel hope when they leave my office. I believe there are times when folks are lacking the tools to get back on track after they have been derailed by life. I believe healing starts within the therapeutic relationship and I look forward to connecting with clients! My job is to help them on their journey in working toward a healthy outlook and better connections in their relationships. I enjoy working with those who are dealing with grief & loss issues, trauma, relationship struggles, anyone who just need someone who cares.
(479) 385-6098 View (479) 385-6098
Photo of Yolanda L Nally, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR II
Yolanda L Nally
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR II
Verified Verified
Serves Area
Yolanda Nally, MSW, LCSW, EMDR II, IFS Level 1, is an integrative psychotherapist in private practice in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Specializing in bipolar disorder, trauma, personality, infidelity, relationship issues and a variety of psychological issues wherein I incorporate Western developmental theory, depth psychological, and Eastern philosophy for growth, emotional healing, and spiritual transformation. Let's find out where you are stuck. And let's find out how good life can be!
Yolanda Nally, MSW, LCSW, EMDR II, IFS Level 1, is an integrative psychotherapist in private practice in Fayetteville, Arkansas.
Specializing in bipolar disorder, trauma, personality, infidelity, relationship issues and a variety of psychological issues wherein I incorporate Western developmental theory, depth psychological, and Eastern philosophy for growth, emotional healing, and spiritual transformation. Let's find out where you are stuck. And let's find out how good life can be!
(479) 348-3029 View (479) 348-3029
Photo of Shawnda Wear, Counselor, MS, LPC
Shawnda Wear
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and training in EMDR.
Life can leave us feeling confused, overwhelmed, disconnected, and full of emotions that we may not understand. You may find yourself struggling with trauma, acceptance, anxiety, depression, worry, fear, grief, and/or shame. You may remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to learn ways to diminish unwanted feelings and symptoms. You're ready to face your problems and work through them. Most of all, you're ready to improve your quality of life and live beyond your struggles and worries.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and training in EMDR.
Life can leave us feeling confused, overwhelmed, disconnected, and full of emotions that we may not understand. You may find yourself struggling with trauma, acceptance, anxiety, depression, worry, fear, grief, and/or shame. You may remember a time things didn't feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you're ready for some relief. You're ready to learn ways to diminish unwanted feelings and symptoms. You're ready to face your problems and work through them. Most of all, you're ready to improve your quality of life and live beyond your struggles and worries.
(479) 323-2519 View (479) 323-2519
Photo of Rodney Neighbors, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Rodney Neighbors
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I have a variety of tools to help deal with Anxiety, depression, or trauma related issues that include CBT, Solution Focused, EMDR, and Emotionally Focused therapy to help couples.
We are all looking for that safe place where we can go to heal heal and work on finding ways to improve our lives. People's struggles are real and we all just want that person who we know is in our corner when no one else is , but we also need that person who can help us figure out how to turn things around when it seems like there is no hope of changing things.
I have a variety of tools to help deal with Anxiety, depression, or trauma related issues that include CBT, Solution Focused, EMDR, and Emotionally Focused therapy to help couples.
We are all looking for that safe place where we can go to heal heal and work on finding ways to improve our lives. People's struggles are real and we all just want that person who we know is in our corner when no one else is , but we also need that person who can help us figure out how to turn things around when it seems like there is no hope of changing things.
(479) 341-5614 View (479) 341-5614
Photo of Robin L. Jackson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Robin L. Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am trained in EMDR for all ages, and also practice Child Parent Psychotherapy to help repair healthy relationships between children ages zero to six and their caregivers.
There can be healing and growth after going through really hard things in life. Trauma doesn’t have to be the end of your story. You can write a new chapter. I am passionate about coming alongside those who are adjusting to life changes and seeking personal growth, as well as helping those who are working through the effects of abuse, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and grief.
I am trained in EMDR for all ages, and also practice Child Parent Psychotherapy to help repair healthy relationships between children ages zero to six and their caregivers.
There can be healing and growth after going through really hard things in life. Trauma doesn’t have to be the end of your story. You can write a new chapter. I am passionate about coming alongside those who are adjusting to life changes and seeking personal growth, as well as helping those who are working through the effects of abuse, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and grief.
(479) 364-5768 View (479) 364-5768
Photo of Brittany Gray, Counselor, MS, LAC
Brittany Gray
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I utilize evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and other trauma-informed care to help clients build coping skills, gain insight, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and behavior.
I work with a diverse range of individuals starting at age 6, each navigating their own unique challenges and life circumstances. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, identity, LGBTQ+, relationship struggles, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, my goal is to empower you to find clarity, healing, and lasting transformation.
I utilize evidence-based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and other trauma-informed care to help clients build coping skills, gain insight, and develop healthier patterns of thinking and behavior.
I work with a diverse range of individuals starting at age 6, each navigating their own unique challenges and life circumstances. Whether you are navigating anxiety, depression, neurodiversity, identity, LGBTQ+, relationship struggles, trauma, or simply seeking personal growth, my goal is to empower you to find clarity, healing, and lasting transformation.
(479) 425-1127 View (479) 425-1127
Photo of Danielle Patterson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Danielle Patterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My clinical practice includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills, sand tray, ego state therapy, compassion focus, and somatic EMDR.
So many of us have been through traumatic experiences that have left us feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, and falling into unhealthy patterns. We experience an inner critical voice that tells us we are not good enough, ugly, or worthless. I love to provide a safe and comforting space for clients to process their difficult life experiences, break through cycles of shame, and begin recovery from addictive behaviors, including with eating and embodiment issues. Together, we focus on healing, reclaiming health, practicing intuitive self-care, celebrating your authentic self and beauty, and cultivating self-love and self-compassion.
My clinical practice includes Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills, sand tray, ego state therapy, compassion focus, and somatic EMDR.
So many of us have been through traumatic experiences that have left us feeling hopeless, overwhelmed, and falling into unhealthy patterns. We experience an inner critical voice that tells us we are not good enough, ugly, or worthless. I love to provide a safe and comforting space for clients to process their difficult life experiences, break through cycles of shame, and begin recovery from addictive behaviors, including with eating and embodiment issues. Together, we focus on healing, reclaiming health, practicing intuitive self-care, celebrating your authentic self and beauty, and cultivating self-love and self-compassion.
(479) 310-0664 View (479) 310-0664
Photo of Ada Floyd, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EMDR
Ada Floyd
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I use a variety of techniques and tools, such as EMDR, ego state therapy, and CBT to help tailor therapy to each individual client.
I believe in treating everyone with respect, as an equal, and without any labels or judgement. I tailor the dialog and treatment plan to meet each clients’ specific needs. Each individual is unique and there is no "one size fits all" in therapy. I am relatively informal in my approach, but flexible for the needs of each client.
I use a variety of techniques and tools, such as EMDR, ego state therapy, and CBT to help tailor therapy to each individual client.
I believe in treating everyone with respect, as an equal, and without any labels or judgement. I tailor the dialog and treatment plan to meet each clients’ specific needs. Each individual is unique and there is no "one size fits all" in therapy. I am relatively informal in my approach, but flexible for the needs of each client.
(479) 323-3152 View (479) 323-3152
Photo of Bryant Omar Prieto - New Leaf Counseling of the River Valley , Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
New Leaf Counseling of the River Valley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
We are a collaborative office and use CBT, EMDR, BSP, EFT, person centered, trauma focused, mindfulness, and strengths-based therapies.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you often feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, lost, working hard just to get through the day? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they are supposed to move beyond the loss, beyond the trauma that continues to impact their careers, their relationships, their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldnʼt be so hard to live a better life.
We are a collaborative office and use CBT, EMDR, BSP, EFT, person centered, trauma focused, mindfulness, and strengths-based therapies.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you often feel exhausted, overwhelmed, frustrated, lost, working hard just to get through the day? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and uncertain about how they are supposed to move beyond the loss, beyond the trauma that continues to impact their careers, their relationships, their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. We believe it shouldnʼt be so hard to live a better life.
(479) 448-4696 View (479) 448-4696
Photo of Skylar Moore, Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Skylar Moore
Counselor, MA, LAC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I specialize in intensives and extended session delivery, utilizing EMDR, parts work, and polyvagal theory to address complex mental health challenges.
I offer a safe space for women seeking to understand and address depression, anxiety, complex PTSD, and self-worth issues. I focus on fostering self-awareness and mindfulness to guide your exploration into the root causes of your experiences. Together, we’ll work towards healing and building a balanced, more confident you.
I specialize in intensives and extended session delivery, utilizing EMDR, parts work, and polyvagal theory to address complex mental health challenges.
I offer a safe space for women seeking to understand and address depression, anxiety, complex PTSD, and self-worth issues. I focus on fostering self-awareness and mindfulness to guide your exploration into the root causes of your experiences. Together, we’ll work towards healing and building a balanced, more confident you.
(479) 339-8482 View (479) 339-8482
Photo of Richard W Waggoner, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Richard W Waggoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
Serves Area
To do this I practice an evidenced based trauma therapy called EMDR that uses the body's built-in processes for digesting maladaptive information.
For individuals and couples, we will investigate patterns from the past and present that keep you stuck. Let me help you clarify what it is that you want, how to get there, and add some tools to reach your goals. For those struggling with trauma or panic attacks I practice an evidenced based therapy called EMDR.
To do this I practice an evidenced based trauma therapy called EMDR that uses the body's built-in processes for digesting maladaptive information.
For individuals and couples, we will investigate patterns from the past and present that keep you stuck. Let me help you clarify what it is that you want, how to get there, and add some tools to reach your goals. For those struggling with trauma or panic attacks I practice an evidenced based therapy called EMDR.
(479) 763-3190 View (479) 763-3190
Photo of Stacy Adams, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-TA, EMDR-T, CSAM, CAIMHP, C-ADHD
Stacy Adams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-TA, EMDR-T, CSAM, CAIMHP, C-ADHD
Verified Verified
Serves Area
LMFT-TA(technology assisted), EMDR-T(trauma),CCATP-CA(anxiety)C-DBT(dialectical), ASDCS (autism), CCSP-ADHD, CGP (grief), C-PD(personality disorder) CSTIP (sex Inf therapist) CAIMHP (Addiction Therapist) CSAM (Anger Mngmt) CDCS (Dementia/Alzh) CSTS (Shame)
I want to start by saying that I truly hold a solid belief that each and every human deserves to feel happiness, love, excitement, contentment, and ultimately to achieve their dreams, desires, goals, and best-selves! I implement an integrative approach, with a craving to help. Whether that assistance be with an individual navigating ADHD, a person learning to cope with anxiety/depression, a couple for growth & change, entire family in need, I am devoted to seeking out and destroying the obstacles, strongholds, cognitive distortions, or whatever the “problem” is that is impeding their ability to live happy, healthy, fulfilled lives.
LMFT-TA(technology assisted), EMDR-T(trauma),CCATP-CA(anxiety)C-DBT(dialectical), ASDCS (autism), CCSP-ADHD, CGP (grief), C-PD(personality disorder) CSTIP (sex Inf therapist) CAIMHP (Addiction Therapist) CSAM (Anger Mngmt) CDCS (Dementia/Alzh) CSTS (Shame)
I want to start by saying that I truly hold a solid belief that each and every human deserves to feel happiness, love, excitement, contentment, and ultimately to achieve their dreams, desires, goals, and best-selves! I implement an integrative approach, with a craving to help. Whether that assistance be with an individual navigating ADHD, a person learning to cope with anxiety/depression, a couple for growth & change, entire family in need, I am devoted to seeking out and destroying the obstacles, strongholds, cognitive distortions, or whatever the “problem” is that is impeding their ability to live happy, healthy, fulfilled lives.
(479) 342-4522 View (479) 342-4522
Photo of Donna Morgan, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, TA-S, RPT-S, AAT-I
Donna Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, TA-S, RPT-S, AAT-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
The therapist at Fort Smith Therapy have speciality training in trauma such as EMDR, Brain Spotting and Trauma Certified Specializations.
Hurts and pain leave us feeling shattered, injured, and disconnected from our true selves. You may be fed up with the constant pain from your past, feeling that you will never be happy or normal. You might not even remember a time when life didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to be happy and move forward without the past haunting or hurting you. You’re ready to have and feel peace in your heart, brain, and body. Most of all, you’re ready to know you are enough and that your future can be full of happiness and joy
The therapist at Fort Smith Therapy have speciality training in trauma such as EMDR, Brain Spotting and Trauma Certified Specializations.
Hurts and pain leave us feeling shattered, injured, and disconnected from our true selves. You may be fed up with the constant pain from your past, feeling that you will never be happy or normal. You might not even remember a time when life didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to be happy and move forward without the past haunting or hurting you. You’re ready to have and feel peace in your heart, brain, and body. Most of all, you’re ready to know you are enough and that your future can be full of happiness and joy
(479) 888-4757 View (479) 888-4757
Photo of Brad Scott, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brad Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I am trained to work through past and current traumas with EMDR, process depression and anxiety with CBT, and help repair the important relationships in your life with EFT.
I enjoy helping clients reach their fullest potential, working to shift both individual and relational patterns in order to provide comprehensive, lasting growth. I am committed to working through traumatic events and promote healing.
I am trained to work through past and current traumas with EMDR, process depression and anxiety with CBT, and help repair the important relationships in your life with EFT.
I enjoy helping clients reach their fullest potential, working to shift both individual and relational patterns in order to provide comprehensive, lasting growth. I am committed to working through traumatic events and promote healing.
(479) 888-8715 View (479) 888-8715
Photo of Julianne Passen, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Julianne Passen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Serves Area
I also utilize EMDR to assist in trauma processing.
Painful experiences can leave us feeling completely alone. Sometimes we just need someone to meet us where we are to find a way to move forward. Healthy relationships can be difficult to navigate, especially when there is a lifetime of hurt getting in the way. I want to help you create healthy, fulfilling, nourishing connections with those you care about. Along with anxiety and depression, I am passionate about working with those who have dealt with trauma.
I also utilize EMDR to assist in trauma processing.
Painful experiences can leave us feeling completely alone. Sometimes we just need someone to meet us where we are to find a way to move forward. Healthy relationships can be difficult to navigate, especially when there is a lifetime of hurt getting in the way. I want to help you create healthy, fulfilling, nourishing connections with those you care about. Along with anxiety and depression, I am passionate about working with those who have dealt with trauma.
(479) 668-0750 View (479) 668-0750
Photo of Bryant Prieto, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-TA, NCC, ACCTS, EMDR-CT
Bryant Prieto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-TA, NCC, ACCTS, EMDR-CT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Certified in EMDR therapy as one of my primary approaches, I utilize many evidence-based therapies to help you get to the life you have always wanted to live.
I am passionate about meeting my clients where they are, providing them with support, guiding them through their process, giving them the tools for success, empowering them, and strengthening the support systems in their lives in order to help bring out the best version of themselves.
Certified in EMDR therapy as one of my primary approaches, I utilize many evidence-based therapies to help you get to the life you have always wanted to live.
I am passionate about meeting my clients where they are, providing them with support, guiding them through their process, giving them the tools for success, empowering them, and strengthening the support systems in their lives in order to help bring out the best version of themselves.
(479) 668-3171 View (479) 668-3171
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See more therapy options for Crawford County

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.