EMDR Therapists in 22903

Photo of Sandy Foster Morrison, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandy Foster Morrison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
EMDR.
Feelings of sadness and anxiety from unhealed loss and unresolved life circumstances can cripple our capacity to manage our lives. This work offers clarity through tools that deal directly with life changes and the effects of trauma and addictions. With an overall focus on life transitions and jarring wake-up calls that challenge who we believe ourself to be, the work creates Ah Ha experiences and insights that release blocks and bring us home to ourselves - body, mind, emotions, spirit. Individuals. Couples. Groups. Workshops. Retreats. Intuition guides the work which is backed by 30 years of intense clinical specialty with addictions, trauma and dis-ease.
EMDR.
Feelings of sadness and anxiety from unhealed loss and unresolved life circumstances can cripple our capacity to manage our lives. This work offers clarity through tools that deal directly with life changes and the effects of trauma and addictions. With an overall focus on life transitions and jarring wake-up calls that challenge who we believe ourself to be, the work creates Ah Ha experiences and insights that release blocks and bring us home to ourselves - body, mind, emotions, spirit. Individuals. Couples. Groups. Workshops. Retreats. Intuition guides the work which is backed by 30 years of intense clinical specialty with addictions, trauma and dis-ease.
(434) 336-3632 View (434) 336-3632
Photo of Ann Garrett, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann Garrett
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
Hello, my name is Ann Garrett. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor with over 8 years of clinical experience working with various issues and needs. I use a person-centered approach to tailor therapy to the individual. I used a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Hello, my name is Ann Garrett. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor and a National Certified Counselor with over 8 years of clinical experience working with various issues and needs. I use a person-centered approach to tailor therapy to the individual. I used a variety of treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
(434) 474-1769 View (434) 474-1769
Photo of Ashli Gregory - Mindful Innovations, MA, LPC, CSOTP, Counselor
Mindful Innovations
Counselor, MA, LPC, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
EMDR is also a therapy which I use to work through major life events, beliefs, or traumatic experiences that may have led to maladaptive behaviors you wish to overcome.
I support a broad range of individuals, such as those with self regulation and impulse control, that impact their functioning and stability. I want to help you or your loved one in stabilization of mood, thinking, and behavior to live more freely without the burdens of past experiences. I believe strongly in one's motivation to change, and I will support you while you build belief in yourself and your goals. I can help you work through barriers that may inhibit your success or hold you back from taking the steps forward in your life. While the treatment journey can be a challenging one, I can help guide your path to stability.
EMDR is also a therapy which I use to work through major life events, beliefs, or traumatic experiences that may have led to maladaptive behaviors you wish to overcome.
I support a broad range of individuals, such as those with self regulation and impulse control, that impact their functioning and stability. I want to help you or your loved one in stabilization of mood, thinking, and behavior to live more freely without the burdens of past experiences. I believe strongly in one's motivation to change, and I will support you while you build belief in yourself and your goals. I can help you work through barriers that may inhibit your success or hold you back from taking the steps forward in your life. While the treatment journey can be a challenging one, I can help guide your path to stability.
(434) 478-3048 View (434) 478-3048
Photo of Joyce Ann Wanivg Blumberg Thatcher, NCSP, Lic, Ed, Psych
Joyce Ann Wanivg Blumberg Thatcher
NCSP, Lic, Ed, Psych
Verified Verified
I am trained in EMDR for relief of trauma and both behavioral and psychodynamic/talking therapies which emphasize positive habits, good health and personal insight. Any change starts from within and sometimes we all need another perspective to grasp the whole picture so that problems or obstacles can be sensibly, sensitively and effectively handled. I work from a strengths-based orientation whereby talents, skills, and interests can be identified. So we go from there, to where the individual learns to utilize those strengths in resolving problems, conflicts, stressors as well as finding sources of comfort, competence and confidence.
I am trained in EMDR for relief of trauma and both behavioral and psychodynamic/talking therapies which emphasize positive habits, good health and personal insight. Any change starts from within and sometimes we all need another perspective to grasp the whole picture so that problems or obstacles can be sensibly, sensitively and effectively handled. I work from a strengths-based orientation whereby talents, skills, and interests can be identified. So we go from there, to where the individual learns to utilize those strengths in resolving problems, conflicts, stressors as well as finding sources of comfort, competence and confidence.
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Photo of Ann Tourangeau, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann Tourangeau
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR and use this strategy with interested clients where appropriate.
Building a relationship in which you feel safe and connected is my initial focus with new clients. Through this relationship we’ll work together to find a pace that allows us to pay attention to what’s working well for you as well as to what’s getting in your way. Through this early joining we’ll create a solid ground from which we can work together to help you strengthen your awareness, explore your needs and consider what might be helpful as you move into living in a way that feels more easeful, genuine and sustainable.
I am trained in EMDR and use this strategy with interested clients where appropriate.
Building a relationship in which you feel safe and connected is my initial focus with new clients. Through this relationship we’ll work together to find a pace that allows us to pay attention to what’s working well for you as well as to what’s getting in your way. Through this early joining we’ll create a solid ground from which we can work together to help you strengthen your awareness, explore your needs and consider what might be helpful as you move into living in a way that feels more easeful, genuine and sustainable.
(804) 251-2747 View (804) 251-2747
Photo of Elizabeth Girts, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Girts
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
The therapeutic approaches I most often use for individuals are EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, I’m Beth! I am an LPC who is passionate about helping people find hope and healing. In addition to outpatient therapy, I have experience working in-home counseling, crisis stabilization, partial hospitalization (PHP) treating eating disorders and intensive outpatient (IOP) treating eating disorders. Currently, accepting new clients without a waiting list. In your intake appointment we will explore your history and goals and from there talk about what therapeutic approaches will be the best fit for you. If you want to book an intake, please email me or click my website link and book through my calendar.
The therapeutic approaches I most often use for individuals are EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Narrative Therapy.
Hi, I’m Beth! I am an LPC who is passionate about helping people find hope and healing. In addition to outpatient therapy, I have experience working in-home counseling, crisis stabilization, partial hospitalization (PHP) treating eating disorders and intensive outpatient (IOP) treating eating disorders. Currently, accepting new clients without a waiting list. In your intake appointment we will explore your history and goals and from there talk about what therapeutic approaches will be the best fit for you. If you want to book an intake, please email me or click my website link and book through my calendar.
(434) 336-3864 View (434) 336-3864
Photo of Ryan McCoull - Mindful Innovations, LPC, LSATP, EMDRIA, Counselor
Ryan McCoull - Mindful Innovations
Counselor, LPC, LSATP, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
I am certified in EMDR and utilize this as a foundational structure for therapeutic work.
I love to work with a broad range of clients who may be at different points in their mental health journey. I specialize in working with individuals impacted by major life events or traumatic experiences. I also enjoy working with clients struggling with addictions issues. Through EMDR and CBT techniques, we can improve the individual's core beliefs and cognition, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and improve general control and functioning in their lives. These issues may manifest in anxiety, depression, or other disruptive ways. Regardless of your needs, I am ready to join you on your path toward mental health.
I am certified in EMDR and utilize this as a foundational structure for therapeutic work.
I love to work with a broad range of clients who may be at different points in their mental health journey. I specialize in working with individuals impacted by major life events or traumatic experiences. I also enjoy working with clients struggling with addictions issues. Through EMDR and CBT techniques, we can improve the individual's core beliefs and cognition, develop healthy coping mechanisms, and improve general control and functioning in their lives. These issues may manifest in anxiety, depression, or other disruptive ways. Regardless of your needs, I am ready to join you on your path toward mental health.
(434) 602-8536 View (434) 602-8536
Photo of Cyndi Stallings, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cyndi Stallings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I work with families and their networks to understand unique challenges, integrating coping skills, communication, healthy habits, and EMDR in individual therapy.
Hey there! I'm all about teaming up with you and your crew to make life a bit brighter and healthier. I believe having a solid support squad is key to making progress in counseling. With my background in community work and human services, I've picked up some handy tricks to help folks tackle all sorts of hurdles. Can't wait to dive in and help you smash your goals!
I work with families and their networks to understand unique challenges, integrating coping skills, communication, healthy habits, and EMDR in individual therapy.
Hey there! I'm all about teaming up with you and your crew to make life a bit brighter and healthier. I believe having a solid support squad is key to making progress in counseling. With my background in community work and human services, I've picked up some handy tricks to help folks tackle all sorts of hurdles. Can't wait to dive in and help you smash your goals!
(757) 982-9582 View (757) 982-9582
Photo of Karen Landrum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Landrum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
I specialize in EMDR therapy to help you not just cope, but to heal from traumas.
Feeling like you’re losing your drive to make a difference? It can be common to feel overwhelmed and disconnected when you're juggling your work and personal life, especially when you work in emotionally draining fields like healthcare, emergency services, education, or social work. I get it. I graduated with my Master of Social Work and a specialization in health from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Work, and I’ve spent over 30 years in healthcare.
I specialize in EMDR therapy to help you not just cope, but to heal from traumas.
Feeling like you’re losing your drive to make a difference? It can be common to feel overwhelmed and disconnected when you're juggling your work and personal life, especially when you work in emotionally draining fields like healthcare, emergency services, education, or social work. I get it. I graduated with my Master of Social Work and a specialization in health from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Work, and I’ve spent over 30 years in healthcare.
(434) 577-8022 View (434) 577-8022
Photo of Kristine Gore, MA, LMFT, APCC, ADHD-, CCSP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristine Gore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC, ADHD-, CCSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR,) Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR,) am a ADHD-CCSP and Reiki Master.
The gift of therapy is priceless and highly transformative. I am walking proof of the impact and have lived through tremendous challenges related to grief & loss, high conflict relationships, health related battles, career changes, intergenerational trauma, being 1st generation, raising young adults and lived experiences in different parts of the country. My therapeutic journey was led by a skilled therapist and through that learning an inherent calling to help others arose. I work with individuals with a focus on life transitions. I meet clients where they are and provide a guiding hand with the client's lead.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR,) Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction (MBSR,) am a ADHD-CCSP and Reiki Master.
The gift of therapy is priceless and highly transformative. I am walking proof of the impact and have lived through tremendous challenges related to grief & loss, high conflict relationships, health related battles, career changes, intergenerational trauma, being 1st generation, raising young adults and lived experiences in different parts of the country. My therapeutic journey was led by a skilled therapist and through that learning an inherent calling to help others arose. I work with individuals with a focus on life transitions. I meet clients where they are and provide a guiding hand with the client's lead.
(805) 716-6328 View (805) 716-6328
Photo of Angela Reed, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angela Reed
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Angela advocates for a holistic and integrated approach to therapy, addressing biological, psychological, physiological, and spiritual needs to foster lasting change. Drawing from a multidisciplinary perspective, she employs evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and mindfulness. Angela also utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR) to help process traumatic stress (PTS). Her practice encompasses adolescents and adults, specializing in anxiety, depression, grief counseling, marital counseling, and trauma.
Angela advocates for a holistic and integrated approach to therapy, addressing biological, psychological, physiological, and spiritual needs to foster lasting change. Drawing from a multidisciplinary perspective, she employs evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and mindfulness. Angela also utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR) to help process traumatic stress (PTS). Her practice encompasses adolescents and adults, specializing in anxiety, depression, grief counseling, marital counseling, and trauma.
(571) 506-8095 View (571) 506-8095
Photo of Nate Hefner, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nate Hefner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Being certified in EMDR, I work with dissociative disorders, am somatically trained, and use AEDP approach to couples work.
I focus on individual Trauma, Couples, and Family. With years of family and individual work I've developed a flexible ability to meet adult and teen needs from parenting, marital, and developmental trauma and transitions of life. My work is informed by an attachment approach where I seek to create safety with you to untie negative relational patterns and move into greater awareness and courage. To assist my clients with underlying issues of trauma, my training in AEDP, EMDR and somatic approaches are well suited. I also use Ketamine Assisted Therapy in my office to break through old, unconscious patterns.
Being certified in EMDR, I work with dissociative disorders, am somatically trained, and use AEDP approach to couples work.
I focus on individual Trauma, Couples, and Family. With years of family and individual work I've developed a flexible ability to meet adult and teen needs from parenting, marital, and developmental trauma and transitions of life. My work is informed by an attachment approach where I seek to create safety with you to untie negative relational patterns and move into greater awareness and courage. To assist my clients with underlying issues of trauma, my training in AEDP, EMDR and somatic approaches are well suited. I also use Ketamine Assisted Therapy in my office to break through old, unconscious patterns.
(434) 249-8416 View (434) 249-8416
Photo of Aisha Hayat, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aisha Hayat
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
I am passionate about supporting people with trauma histories, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, relational concerns, and also those who are sitting with grief and loss. People may often feel frozen, isolated, or as if they have lost a vital connection with themselves as they face these hardships. My hope is that therapy can provide a compassionate container where people can safely tend to and reconnect with themselves as they move forward. To facilitate this work, I often utilize mindfulness, AEDP, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR.
I am passionate about supporting people with trauma histories, mood disorders, anxiety disorders, relational concerns, and also those who are sitting with grief and loss. People may often feel frozen, isolated, or as if they have lost a vital connection with themselves as they face these hardships. My hope is that therapy can provide a compassionate container where people can safely tend to and reconnect with themselves as they move forward. To facilitate this work, I often utilize mindfulness, AEDP, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR.
(434) 443-8347 View (434) 443-8347
Photo of Julie Smead, MA, LRIC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Julie Smead
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LRIC
Verified Verified
University, VA 22903  (Online Only)
I am a mental health therapist specializing in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), trauma, and somatic therapy.
Trauma-informed, Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR therapy for teens and adults from the comfort of your own home.
I am a mental health therapist specializing in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), trauma, and somatic therapy.
Trauma-informed, Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR therapy for teens and adults from the comfort of your own home.
(757) 767-4314 View (757) 767-4314
Photo of Andrea Dilley-Frame - Thriveworks Counseling&Psychiatry Charlottesville, Counselor
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(434) 485-5339 View (434) 485-5339
Photo of Megan Colon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Colon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
My approach combines evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Mindfulness-based techniques to help you navigate through difficult emotions, reframe negative thought patterns, and cultivate resilience.
Accepting new clients in person and telehealth! I am dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey to wellness. Whether you're grappling with past traumas, anxiety, or depression, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Together, we'll work collaboratively to uncover the root causes of your struggles and develop personalized strategies to promote healing and growth. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take an active role in their healing journey, who values their mental health, and who is committed to creating a life filled with greater peace and fulfillment.
My approach combines evidence-based therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Mindfulness-based techniques to help you navigate through difficult emotions, reframe negative thought patterns, and cultivate resilience.
Accepting new clients in person and telehealth! I am dedicated to guiding individuals on their journey to wellness. Whether you're grappling with past traumas, anxiety, or depression, I'm here to support you every step of the way. Together, we'll work collaboratively to uncover the root causes of your struggles and develop personalized strategies to promote healing and growth. My ideal client is someone who is ready to take an active role in their healing journey, who values their mental health, and who is committed to creating a life filled with greater peace and fulfillment.
(757) 301-5853 View (757) 301-5853
Photo of Tricia Verno - Tricia Verno, LPC - Trusted Therapy and Consulting, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tricia Verno, LPC - Trusted Therapy and Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlottesville, VA 22903  (Online Only)
For issues that require deeper work, I use Attachment-Focused EMDR (more developmental and attachment based than standard EMDR).
I know what it’s like to go through hard times and what a difference having a skilled, compassionate therapist can make. For over 15 years, it’s been a privilege for me to do the same for my clients. My passion is helping clients heal from different types of traumas (PTSD, complex-developmental, intergenerational, attachment, religious, etc). These traumas often lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, impulsive/addictive behaviors, eating disorders, and personality disorders – all which I have experience and success in working with.
For issues that require deeper work, I use Attachment-Focused EMDR (more developmental and attachment based than standard EMDR).
I know what it’s like to go through hard times and what a difference having a skilled, compassionate therapist can make. For over 15 years, it’s been a privilege for me to do the same for my clients. My passion is helping clients heal from different types of traumas (PTSD, complex-developmental, intergenerational, attachment, religious, etc). These traumas often lead to symptoms of depression, anxiety, impulsive/addictive behaviors, eating disorders, and personality disorders – all which I have experience and success in working with.
(804) 376-1298 View (804) 376-1298
Photo of Kacey Wilson, PsyD, PSYPACT, Psychologist
Kacey Wilson
Psychologist, PsyD, PSYPACT
Verified Verified
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Kacey Wilson is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Charlottesville, VA. Dr. Wilson integrates therapeutic modalities across somatic, trauma-informed, relational, and psychodynamic approaches. She offers EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and Polyvagal techniques for individuals seeking recovery from traumatic experiences. Specialty areas include developmental trauma, interpersonal challenges, grief and loss, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, cross-cultural integration, and existential inquiries. Her approach encourages self-discovery, compassionate inquiry, growth, and integration. Inquire about interpersonal group therapy.
Dr. Kacey Wilson is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist based in Charlottesville, VA. Dr. Wilson integrates therapeutic modalities across somatic, trauma-informed, relational, and psychodynamic approaches. She offers EMDR, Somatic Experiencing, and Polyvagal techniques for individuals seeking recovery from traumatic experiences. Specialty areas include developmental trauma, interpersonal challenges, grief and loss, chronic pain, depression, anxiety, cross-cultural integration, and existential inquiries. Her approach encourages self-discovery, compassionate inquiry, growth, and integration. Inquire about interpersonal group therapy.
(434) 442-6409 View (434) 442-6409
Photo of Courtney D Bonilla, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney D Bonilla
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I utilize a variety of modalities including EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based practice, play therapy, sand tray work and family systems theory.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative one in which you have the power to make lasting changes toward a more balanced, connected and resourced life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual and family counseling to children, adolescents, families and adults. I have extensive knowledge of behavior management strategies and parenting skill support as a former provider of Therapeutic Day Treatment in the school setting and Intensive In-home Services.  My training in trauma and resilience informs my work and allows for the strengths of the individual to guide growth and healing.
I utilize a variety of modalities including EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness-based practice, play therapy, sand tray work and family systems theory.
I believe the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative one in which you have the power to make lasting changes toward a more balanced, connected and resourced life. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing individual and family counseling to children, adolescents, families and adults. I have extensive knowledge of behavior management strategies and parenting skill support as a former provider of Therapeutic Day Treatment in the school setting and Intensive In-home Services.  My training in trauma and resilience informs my work and allows for the strengths of the individual to guide growth and healing.
(434) 208-2615 View (434) 208-2615
Photo of Kate Pozo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Pozo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I am passionate about what I do, and I have a versatile toolkit to help you, including parts work, EMDR, somatic (body) work and more.
Hello, My name is Kate Pozo, and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma. I focus mainly on working with teenagers and adults with trauma backgrounds.
I am passionate about what I do, and I have a versatile toolkit to help you, including parts work, EMDR, somatic (body) work and more.
Hello, My name is Kate Pozo, and I am a licensed clinical social worker specializing in trauma. I focus mainly on working with teenagers and adults with trauma backgrounds.
(434) 218-2175 View (434) 218-2175
1
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.