Photo of Christian Cagle, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christian Cagle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
As an DBT therapist (also using other modalities such as EMDR and CBT), I help clients work through past trauma and learn to regulate their emotions in the present.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of NC, and received my Masters of Social Work at UNC Chapel Hill. I have experience working at inpatient behavioral health settings, hospital systems, multidisciplinary collaborative care clinics, and in private practice. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR (trauma therapy), and utilize other therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational Interviewing, talk-therapy, and solution-focused care. I am proud to serve clients with a wide rage of ages (early adolescence through older adulthood), and from a wide range of backgrounds.
As an DBT therapist (also using other modalities such as EMDR and CBT), I help clients work through past trauma and learn to regulate their emotions in the present.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of NC, and received my Masters of Social Work at UNC Chapel Hill. I have experience working at inpatient behavioral health settings, hospital systems, multidisciplinary collaborative care clinics, and in private practice. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR (trauma therapy), and utilize other therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), motivational Interviewing, talk-therapy, and solution-focused care. I am proud to serve clients with a wide rage of ages (early adolescence through older adulthood), and from a wide range of backgrounds.
(704) 459-2170 View (704) 459-2170
Photo of Jessica Kawamoto, MA, LCAS, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Kawamoto
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
I utilize multiple therapy styles to include CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR trained), and solution-focused and motivational interviewing.
The chance to be heard and seen with warmth and compassion is what I strive to provide in my therapy sessions. We’ll work together at a pace that you are comfortable with in a collaborative conversation that validates your life experiences. It may take some time to build trust but my hope is that you can speak unfiltered about whatever life circumstances have brought you to therapy.
I utilize multiple therapy styles to include CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR trained), and solution-focused and motivational interviewing.
The chance to be heard and seen with warmth and compassion is what I strive to provide in my therapy sessions. We’ll work together at a pace that you are comfortable with in a collaborative conversation that validates your life experiences. It may take some time to build trust but my hope is that you can speak unfiltered about whatever life circumstances have brought you to therapy.
(704) 946-8047 View (704) 946-8047
Photo of Jen Hundt, LCSW, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jen Hundt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, EMDR and Safe and Sound Protocol to assist with addressing the impacts of trauma.
Jen received her graduate degree from the University of Southern California where she obtained her Masters Degree in Social Work with an additional certificate in Military Social Work and Veterans Services. The focus of her degree program was adult mental health with a sub concentration in military and veteran populations as well as complex trauma. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with veterans, people experiencing homelessness, people with severe and persistent mental health disorders, co-occurring substance use disorders and those who have experienced abuse.
She uses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Seeking Safety, EMDR and Safe and Sound Protocol to assist with addressing the impacts of trauma.
Jen received her graduate degree from the University of Southern California where she obtained her Masters Degree in Social Work with an additional certificate in Military Social Work and Veterans Services. The focus of her degree program was adult mental health with a sub concentration in military and veteran populations as well as complex trauma. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience working with veterans, people experiencing homelessness, people with severe and persistent mental health disorders, co-occurring substance use disorders and those who have experienced abuse.
(704) 275-0549 View (704) 275-0549
Photo of Glenda Vinson-Nnaji, MEd, LCMHCS, LCAS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Glenda Vinson-Nnaji
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHCS, LCAS, LPC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I utilize evidence-based training to include EMDR, CBT, and Solution Focused Therapy to help individuals resolve trauma, depression, anxiety, and other challenges.
My specialty areas include Trauma Resolution, Anxiety and Depression management, and ADHD. I take pride in helping individuals find solutions to difficulties they encounter to live happy healthy lives. My therapeutic style is empathetic and warm while focused on building on clients' strengths to help them heal from the past and find solutions for the future. My overall goal in therapy is to help clients acknowledge their problems and then focus on positive solutions that allow them to feel better and do better.
I utilize evidence-based training to include EMDR, CBT, and Solution Focused Therapy to help individuals resolve trauma, depression, anxiety, and other challenges.
My specialty areas include Trauma Resolution, Anxiety and Depression management, and ADHD. I take pride in helping individuals find solutions to difficulties they encounter to live happy healthy lives. My therapeutic style is empathetic and warm while focused on building on clients' strengths to help them heal from the past and find solutions for the future. My overall goal in therapy is to help clients acknowledge their problems and then focus on positive solutions that allow them to feel better and do better.
(704) 769-2607 View (704) 769-2607
Photo of Kristina Mathews Acosta, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristina Mathews Acosta
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCAS, LCMHC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
My practice was founded to provide our clients with therapies are effective and efficient, which can help reduce the time spent in therapy such as EMDR and DBT.
Does life seem a bit overwhelming? Does your mind keep racing and are you having trouble sleeping? Do you feel down? Do you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders? If you or your loved one have answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone, we can help! It is normal to have obstacles occur as we travel through life, but when it starts to interfere with our daily living we may experience frustration, sadness, confusion, and uneasiness. Getting help with these issues may lead to a more fulfilling life for you. Together, you and I will work together to meet your individual goals.
My practice was founded to provide our clients with therapies are effective and efficient, which can help reduce the time spent in therapy such as EMDR and DBT.
Does life seem a bit overwhelming? Does your mind keep racing and are you having trouble sleeping? Do you feel down? Do you feel the weight of the world on your shoulders? If you or your loved one have answered yes to any of these questions, you are not alone, we can help! It is normal to have obstacles occur as we travel through life, but when it starts to interfere with our daily living we may experience frustration, sadness, confusion, and uneasiness. Getting help with these issues may lead to a more fulfilling life for you. Together, you and I will work together to meet your individual goals.
(704) 286-6227 View (704) 286-6227
Photo of McCloud Acosta Clinical Services - MACS (McCloud Acosta Clinical Services PLLC), Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MACS (McCloud Acosta Clinical Services PLLC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Assessments, Screenings, Treatment Planning, to specialized Trauma Treatment Modalities- TF-CBT, Evidenced Based Modules such as EMDR, DBT Adherent Groups/Individual for Pre-Teens, Teens & Adults, Family, Individual & Group Therapy.
We are a Group of Trauma Specialist working with a variety of ages (8-100+) who have experienced trauma & have mental health needs. Our team of 15 therapists have a variety of specialties, experience & methods along with life experiences that can address most challenges. We love to work with clients who are ready to take the healing journey, are open, motivated & committed. Therapy is work & it is something we are honored to help you do. If you are ready to improve your life- please reach out. Virtual (in NC) and In-Person Sessions Available in Matthews & Mint Hill.
Assessments, Screenings, Treatment Planning, to specialized Trauma Treatment Modalities- TF-CBT, Evidenced Based Modules such as EMDR, DBT Adherent Groups/Individual for Pre-Teens, Teens & Adults, Family, Individual & Group Therapy.
We are a Group of Trauma Specialist working with a variety of ages (8-100+) who have experienced trauma & have mental health needs. Our team of 15 therapists have a variety of specialties, experience & methods along with life experiences that can address most challenges. We love to work with clients who are ready to take the healing journey, are open, motivated & committed. Therapy is work & it is something we are honored to help you do. If you are ready to improve your life- please reach out. Virtual (in NC) and In-Person Sessions Available in Matthews & Mint Hill.
(704) 368-3609 View (704) 368-3609
Photo of Nivee Roy - Chai Clinical Concepts, PLLC Nivee Roy, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chai Clinical Concepts, PLLC Nivee Roy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
I utilize these therapy modalities: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, CPT to assist my clients work through their life struggles, traumatic experiences and embrace the richness of their lives.
Life feeling like an emotional rollercoaster? Hard not to people please and put others first while feeling miserable inside. You don't have to figure it out alone or feel stuck, I can help. I am licensed to provide both mental health and addiction counseling in NC, with 20yrs experience. My specialties: trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, family stress, LGBTQA+, grief/loss, inter-generational cultural issues, and premarital counseling. My lived experience as a first generation South Asian immigrant, a working parent, who has faced transitions to seek meaningful growth, shapes my authentic counseling style.
I utilize these therapy modalities: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, CPT to assist my clients work through their life struggles, traumatic experiences and embrace the richness of their lives.
Life feeling like an emotional rollercoaster? Hard not to people please and put others first while feeling miserable inside. You don't have to figure it out alone or feel stuck, I can help. I am licensed to provide both mental health and addiction counseling in NC, with 20yrs experience. My specialties: trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, family stress, LGBTQA+, grief/loss, inter-generational cultural issues, and premarital counseling. My lived experience as a first generation South Asian immigrant, a working parent, who has faced transitions to seek meaningful growth, shapes my authentic counseling style.
(828) 332-5695 View (828) 332-5695
Photo of Marissa Johnson, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Marissa Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
DBT and EMDR are effective, evidence-based treatments that can help you experience less pain and more joy in life.
Are you struggling to regulate your emotions and meet your goals? Do you feel stuck in life? Is your past interfering with your life in the present? I am trained in EMDR and DBT, and help clients who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I want to help you work through difficulties to live your best life. Life right now is particularly stressful, and and I want to give you a place to process your emotions and learn skills to handle stress.
DBT and EMDR are effective, evidence-based treatments that can help you experience less pain and more joy in life.
Are you struggling to regulate your emotions and meet your goals? Do you feel stuck in life? Is your past interfering with your life in the present? I am trained in EMDR and DBT, and help clients who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I want to help you work through difficulties to live your best life. Life right now is particularly stressful, and and I want to give you a place to process your emotions and learn skills to handle stress.
(704) 610-3970 View (704) 610-3970
Photo of Andres Ruiz, MA, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andres Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
I believe in the importance of holistic wellness and integrate various therapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, and hypnosis to help you find a path to inner peace while staying productive and motivated.
Do you feel persistently overwhelmed, as if you're fighting an uphill battle with your mental health? Is it becoming increasingly difficult to navigate life's ups and downs with serenity? Are you striving for a harmonious balance between personal life, career, and self-care? Have you ever felt like "something's wrong" but can't quite ever identify what it is, or where that feeling is coming from? I am dedicated to helping people from all walks of life better cope with stress and anxiety without compromising their drive for success.
I believe in the importance of holistic wellness and integrate various therapeutic techniques such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, and hypnosis to help you find a path to inner peace while staying productive and motivated.
Do you feel persistently overwhelmed, as if you're fighting an uphill battle with your mental health? Is it becoming increasingly difficult to navigate life's ups and downs with serenity? Are you striving for a harmonious balance between personal life, career, and self-care? Have you ever felt like "something's wrong" but can't quite ever identify what it is, or where that feeling is coming from? I am dedicated to helping people from all walks of life better cope with stress and anxiety without compromising their drive for success.
(704) 327-6545 View (704) 327-6545
Photo of Michael Hyder, MA, LCMHC
Michael Hyder
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
My primary specialty is utilizing EMDR in the resolution of trauma and other conditions.
EMDR Certified Trauma Specialist.   Your voice matters. Your feelings matter. Your story matters. Your life matters. You are important and you matter. I believe we have an innate ability to adapt and heal when given the right space to do so. My goal is to provide the space where you can access your resources and strengths and confidently create the change you want. Clients often leave my office feeling lighter and that they experienced a deeper understanding of being heard and valued.
My primary specialty is utilizing EMDR in the resolution of trauma and other conditions.
EMDR Certified Trauma Specialist.   Your voice matters. Your feelings matter. Your story matters. Your life matters. You are important and you matter. I believe we have an innate ability to adapt and heal when given the right space to do so. My goal is to provide the space where you can access your resources and strengths and confidently create the change you want. Clients often leave my office feeling lighter and that they experienced a deeper understanding of being heard and valued.
(704) 318-4035 View (704) 318-4035
Photo of Melissa Prushik, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Prushik
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
In my practice, I work to help my clients feel comfortable and understood. I believe there are no right or wrong thoughts or feelings. I will support you and I will not judge. My experience is diverse as I have worked with children, adolescents, individuals and families in various settings. My methods include evidence based treatments tailored by my keen intuition and my client's individual needs and goals. I find success with my client's utilizing CBT, client-centered and psycho-dynamic therapies along with DBT skills. The benefits of DBT have proven to be tremendous and can be applied to many issues where appropriate.
In my practice, I work to help my clients feel comfortable and understood. I believe there are no right or wrong thoughts or feelings. I will support you and I will not judge. My experience is diverse as I have worked with children, adolescents, individuals and families in various settings. My methods include evidence based treatments tailored by my keen intuition and my client's individual needs and goals. I find success with my client's utilizing CBT, client-centered and psycho-dynamic therapies along with DBT skills. The benefits of DBT have proven to be tremendous and can be applied to many issues where appropriate.
(980) 434-0460 View (980) 434-0460
Photo of Remi Ewharekuko, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Remi Ewharekuko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Looking for clarity, struggling with substance use, fighting with depression and anxiety, or any other mental health issues. I can assist. I help my clients in navigating the stressors of their individual lives. I identify the different values and ideologies of all my clients. Together we map a situation and figure out a solution that is in line with their personal desires so they are able to reach goals set. The three theories I use most in my practice are humanistic/self-determination, behaviorism and psychodynamic theory. With humanistic/self-determination theory I can ensure I help my clients achieve their highest potential.
Looking for clarity, struggling with substance use, fighting with depression and anxiety, or any other mental health issues. I can assist. I help my clients in navigating the stressors of their individual lives. I identify the different values and ideologies of all my clients. Together we map a situation and figure out a solution that is in line with their personal desires so they are able to reach goals set. The three theories I use most in my practice are humanistic/self-determination, behaviorism and psychodynamic theory. With humanistic/self-determination theory I can ensure I help my clients achieve their highest potential.
(704) 610-6068 View (704) 610-6068
Photo of Eve Rogerson, LCMHC, NCC, MA, PGDE, BSc
Eve Rogerson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA, PGDE, BSc
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Waitlist for new clients
You may be struggling with an important relationship; being overwhelmed by the impact of past trauma; exploring your sexuality or gender identity; navigating the world safely because of systemic oppression and injustice; facing financial hardship; feeling lost; learning to manage a health condition; feeling unable to connect with family; experiencing unexplained anger; or a thousand other things that there isn't room to list. It is my job and my hope to empower you by providing an empathic, safe, and supportive environment in which to explore struggles, pain, and roadblocks such that opportunities for help and growth can emerge.
You may be struggling with an important relationship; being overwhelmed by the impact of past trauma; exploring your sexuality or gender identity; navigating the world safely because of systemic oppression and injustice; facing financial hardship; feeling lost; learning to manage a health condition; feeling unable to connect with family; experiencing unexplained anger; or a thousand other things that there isn't room to list. It is my job and my hope to empower you by providing an empathic, safe, and supportive environment in which to explore struggles, pain, and roadblocks such that opportunities for help and growth can emerge.
(704) 870-0930 View (704) 870-0930
Photo of Celia Tatman, LCMHC, NCC
Celia Tatman
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Do you find yourself carrying the heavy weight of unresolved trauma, unsure of how to lighten the load? If so, painful past experiences cast shadows on your present life, and you may feel controlled by mood swings, anxiety, depression, or intrusive thoughts. If you're ready to untangle the complexities of your experiences, I'm here for you. Together, we can navigate the path to resolution. Common issues treated include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, and life transition. All sessions are virtual, providing you with an affordable, accessible counseling experience from the comfort of your own home.
Do you find yourself carrying the heavy weight of unresolved trauma, unsure of how to lighten the load? If so, painful past experiences cast shadows on your present life, and you may feel controlled by mood swings, anxiety, depression, or intrusive thoughts. If you're ready to untangle the complexities of your experiences, I'm here for you. Together, we can navigate the path to resolution. Common issues treated include anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, PTSD, trauma, OCD, and life transition. All sessions are virtual, providing you with an affordable, accessible counseling experience from the comfort of your own home.
(704) 815-6692 View (704) 815-6692
Photo of Jenna Lane, LCMHCA, NCC
Jenna Lane
LCMHC Associate, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Waitlist for new clients
I aim to create a space that is safe and accepting for all. I have experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Additionally, I specialize in working with children and adolescents who may be struggling with ADHD, behavioral issues, relational conflicts, stress, and more.
I aim to create a space that is safe and accepting for all. I have experience in working with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Additionally, I specialize in working with children and adolescents who may be struggling with ADHD, behavioral issues, relational conflicts, stress, and more.
(704) 459-4131 View (704) 459-4131
Photo of Tracy Masiello Brown - Reaching Resolution, PLLC, PhD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reaching Resolution, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Reaching Resolution is a group practice with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples, and families to help find solutions to the problems that you or your loved ones face. We use a positive, strengths-based approach, drawing from evidence-based strategies to fit your own unique situation and needs. We use a solution-focused approach to help you find positive ways to handle situations and reach the resolution that's right for you.
Reaching Resolution is a group practice with over 25 years of experience working with children, adolescents, individuals, couples, and families to help find solutions to the problems that you or your loved ones face. We use a positive, strengths-based approach, drawing from evidence-based strategies to fit your own unique situation and needs. We use a solution-focused approach to help you find positive ways to handle situations and reach the resolution that's right for you.
(704) 761-4176 View (704) 761-4176
Photo of Amy L Sanderson, MA, LPC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Amy L Sanderson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or sad? You are brave to reach out for help. I'm here to support you in moving forward. I truly believe in the therapeutic process and am continually inspired by the progress my clients achieve to create more fulfilling and joyful lives. In addition to office appointments, I offer video counseling, where we communicate through live video in the privacy of your own home. I also offer walk and talk counseling through peaceful, wooded trails. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is an additional modality I use.
Are you feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or sad? You are brave to reach out for help. I'm here to support you in moving forward. I truly believe in the therapeutic process and am continually inspired by the progress my clients achieve to create more fulfilling and joyful lives. In addition to office appointments, I offer video counseling, where we communicate through live video in the privacy of your own home. I also offer walk and talk counseling through peaceful, wooded trails. Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy is an additional modality I use.
(980) 400-9377 View (980) 400-9377
Photo of Nilsma Marshall - Centered Mind Counseling , LPC, LAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Centered Mind Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LAC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Feeling a little lost and unsure about how to handle things in your life? We all feel like this at one time or another in our lives and it is helpful to have someone support you while trying to figure things out. Often a person will seek out counseling when personal attempts to solve a problem have not worked. At different times we experience unresolved situations that affect our sense of calm, clarity and balance.
Feeling a little lost and unsure about how to handle things in your life? We all feel like this at one time or another in our lives and it is helpful to have someone support you while trying to figure things out. Often a person will seek out counseling when personal attempts to solve a problem have not worked. At different times we experience unresolved situations that affect our sense of calm, clarity and balance.
(720) 408-2686 View (720) 408-2686
Photo of Sarah Barrington, MS Ed, LCMHC
Sarah Barrington
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS Ed, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Sometimes life comes at you fast. Unexpected events occur or transitions happen. That's what makes life exciting, but also challenging at times. Whether it be a job transition, adjusting to a new family, relationship issues or trying to find your way as a parent during the teenage years (or navigating life as a teenager yourself!), these experiences can often cause stress in our lives. As a result, you might find yourself not sleeping well, feeling anxious, experiencing low self-esteem, anger and sadness. You often wonder, when will everything get better and I'll feel like myself again?
Sometimes life comes at you fast. Unexpected events occur or transitions happen. That's what makes life exciting, but also challenging at times. Whether it be a job transition, adjusting to a new family, relationship issues or trying to find your way as a parent during the teenage years (or navigating life as a teenager yourself!), these experiences can often cause stress in our lives. As a result, you might find yourself not sleeping well, feeling anxious, experiencing low self-esteem, anger and sadness. You often wonder, when will everything get better and I'll feel like myself again?
(704) 368-4392 View (704) 368-4392
Photo of Catherine Herron, LCMHC
Catherine Herron
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105  (Online Only)
Hi! I am Catherine Herron and I am a Licenced Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina. I have been practicing for almost 4 years. I gravitated towards this career because of the joy I find helping others. I
Hi! I am Catherine Herron and I am a Licenced Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina. I have been practicing for almost 4 years. I gravitated towards this career because of the joy I find helping others. I
(828) 439-0776 View (828) 439-0776
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.