Photo of Julie Ann Gray, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Ann Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I am an empathic individual who is passionate about assisting others to achieve their fullest potential. I believe that every person has the power to change and to heal. I am open and receptive to working with people of all genders, faiths, ethnic groups and sexual orientations. I am confident that together we will work to resolve any issues you bring. I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR and have seen many clients heal from traumatic events using this modality. I also love working with people impacted by depression, anxiety and family issues surrounding addictions.
I am an empathic individual who is passionate about assisting others to achieve their fullest potential. I believe that every person has the power to change and to heal. I am open and receptive to working with people of all genders, faiths, ethnic groups and sexual orientations. I am confident that together we will work to resolve any issues you bring. I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR and have seen many clients heal from traumatic events using this modality. I also love working with people impacted by depression, anxiety and family issues surrounding addictions.
(469) 812-5670 View (469) 812-5670
Photo of Jessica George, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica George
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
I have training in EMDR and other trauma-focused interventions, enabling me to assist clients in processing and overcoming the impacts of trauma.
With over 15 years of dedicated experience in the field of trauma psychology, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients who have endured traumatic and stressful life events. My extensive background equips me with a deep understanding of the complexities involved in recovery and healing, allowing me to provide compassionate and effective support tailored to each individual's unique needs.
I have training in EMDR and other trauma-focused interventions, enabling me to assist clients in processing and overcoming the impacts of trauma.
With over 15 years of dedicated experience in the field of trauma psychology, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of patients who have endured traumatic and stressful life events. My extensive background equips me with a deep understanding of the complexities involved in recovery and healing, allowing me to provide compassionate and effective support tailored to each individual's unique needs.
(469) 459-6243 View (469) 459-6243
Photo of Elizabeth Martin, MSW, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I offer psychodrama and other experiential techniques to help client's access underlying issues more quickly, including EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I help adults, adolescents and their families restore balance to their lives. My experience includes 17 years in private practice and over 20 years in the addiction field, including; substances, food, sex & religion. As an alternative option to traditional counseling, I offer an Intensive Program. Intensives are highly individualized and designed to assist clients in reaching their goals quicker. Clients who want to fast track their results or deep dive into an area of concern should consider doing and Intensive.
I offer psychodrama and other experiential techniques to help client's access underlying issues more quickly, including EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor. I help adults, adolescents and their families restore balance to their lives. My experience includes 17 years in private practice and over 20 years in the addiction field, including; substances, food, sex & religion. As an alternative option to traditional counseling, I offer an Intensive Program. Intensives are highly individualized and designed to assist clients in reaching their goals quicker. Clients who want to fast track their results or deep dive into an area of concern should consider doing and Intensive.
(469) 361-7235 View (469) 361-7235
Photo of Alyssa West, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa West
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I have specialized training utilizing, activity therapy, EMDR, expressive arts, attachment-based therapy, and play therapy/teen counseling.
I recognize how overwhelming the process towards healing can be whether for yourself or a loved one. Together, I can help you through the process, as we work on fostering self-esteem, a greater sense of self, and the healthy coping skills needed to navigate life’s challenges. I believe that counseling is a collaborative process where we work on healing and allowing the whole self to thrive in whatever way is best tailored towards your individual needs.
I have specialized training utilizing, activity therapy, EMDR, expressive arts, attachment-based therapy, and play therapy/teen counseling.
I recognize how overwhelming the process towards healing can be whether for yourself or a loved one. Together, I can help you through the process, as we work on fostering self-esteem, a greater sense of self, and the healthy coping skills needed to navigate life’s challenges. I believe that counseling is a collaborative process where we work on healing and allowing the whole self to thrive in whatever way is best tailored towards your individual needs.
(214) 496-5278 View (214) 496-5278
Photo of Celia Pirouznia, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Celia Pirouznia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Waitlist for new clients
I have been trained in EMDR therapy, & have had great success delivering this therapeutic modality both in-person & via teletherapy.
Have you ever wondered why you do the things you do? Do you often feel like your problems set you apart from everyone, or that the loneliness & isolation of suffering is too much? Do you wish you had a trusted ally to partner with, someone who could both support & challenge you? If so, you have come to the right place, & I am so glad you are here. My name is Celia, and I am extremely passionate about helping others, & I pride myself on the quality of the therapeutic connection that I build with my clients. I work with adults, age 18 & up, on a variety of issues, & I specialize in treating trauma & attachment issues
I have been trained in EMDR therapy, & have had great success delivering this therapeutic modality both in-person & via teletherapy.
Have you ever wondered why you do the things you do? Do you often feel like your problems set you apart from everyone, or that the loneliness & isolation of suffering is too much? Do you wish you had a trusted ally to partner with, someone who could both support & challenge you? If so, you have come to the right place, & I am so glad you are here. My name is Celia, and I am extremely passionate about helping others, & I pride myself on the quality of the therapeutic connection that I build with my clients. I work with adults, age 18 & up, on a variety of issues, & I specialize in treating trauma & attachment issues
(469) 751-4810 View (469) 751-4810
Photo of Christy Doering, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christy Doering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
We will use various tools such as mindfulness, EMDR, processing, and education to put you on a solid path toward healing.
If you are suffering from trauma, grief, depression or mood and anxiety issues, you CAN feel better. You’re making a brave decision to seek help. I am honored to work every day with people who are making progress because of therapy. My 15 years of experience have equipped me with multiple tools to guide the process. I’m an EMDRIA-approved consultant, and specially trained by Postpartum Support International in Maternal Mental Health. And I have extensive experience with Motherless Daughters and Survivors of Suicide.
We will use various tools such as mindfulness, EMDR, processing, and education to put you on a solid path toward healing.
If you are suffering from trauma, grief, depression or mood and anxiety issues, you CAN feel better. You’re making a brave decision to seek help. I am honored to work every day with people who are making progress because of therapy. My 15 years of experience have equipped me with multiple tools to guide the process. I’m an EMDRIA-approved consultant, and specially trained by Postpartum Support International in Maternal Mental Health. And I have extensive experience with Motherless Daughters and Survivors of Suicide.
(972) 992-7937 View (972) 992-7937
Photo of Kelley Connell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Connell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am also trained in EMDR.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. I am privileged to counsel with adolescents age 15 and above, individuals and couples. Through counseling, I provide increased awareness and understanding of one's thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how one can develop more positive experiences in many areas of life. My therapy approach is interactive and solution focused utilizing various counseling methods to help you learn new skills and gain new insights. I collaborate with you to achieve healing and growth, emotionally, intellectually, behaviorally and spiritually.
I am also trained in EMDR.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. I am privileged to counsel with adolescents age 15 and above, individuals and couples. Through counseling, I provide increased awareness and understanding of one's thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how one can develop more positive experiences in many areas of life. My therapy approach is interactive and solution focused utilizing various counseling methods to help you learn new skills and gain new insights. I collaborate with you to achieve healing and growth, emotionally, intellectually, behaviorally and spiritually.
(972) 532-9535 View (972) 532-9535
Photo of Joseph Brigandi, NREMT, MS, MEd, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph Brigandi
Licensed Professional Counselor, NREMT, MS, MEd, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I'm a counselor/psychotherapist and I specialize in three things: #1, Depth Psychology with a strong Jungian focus #2, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and the Traumatic Recovery Process #3, Psychotherapy for Physicians, Executives and Senior leaders working through crisis. I'm certified in ( EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. My passion for working with people experiencing post traumatic stress came as a result of my own experiences as an EMT and Paramedic during my career in emergency medicine serving as a first responder in Arizona, California and Texas currently nearing thirty years of service.
I'm a counselor/psychotherapist and I specialize in three things: #1, Depth Psychology with a strong Jungian focus #2, Post Traumatic Stress Disorders and the Traumatic Recovery Process #3, Psychotherapy for Physicians, Executives and Senior leaders working through crisis. I'm certified in ( EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. My passion for working with people experiencing post traumatic stress came as a result of my own experiences as an EMT and Paramedic during my career in emergency medicine serving as a first responder in Arizona, California and Texas currently nearing thirty years of service.
(469) 646-6350 View (469) 646-6350
Photo of Jessica Russell, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Russell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
My role is to guide you through this journey with care, employing my extensive training in the modalities of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR.
Do you feel like you are carrying the weight of your past or that you can’t get a grip on intense emotions that overcome you at times? I've dedicated my practice to providing a supportive and understanding environment where healing and growth are not just goals but achievable realities. My approach is centered on the belief that everyone deserves to experience their own "aha" moments – those pivotal points of insight and clarity where understanding blossoms and the pathway forward becomes illuminated.
My role is to guide you through this journey with care, employing my extensive training in the modalities of Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and EMDR.
Do you feel like you are carrying the weight of your past or that you can’t get a grip on intense emotions that overcome you at times? I've dedicated my practice to providing a supportive and understanding environment where healing and growth are not just goals but achievable realities. My approach is centered on the belief that everyone deserves to experience their own "aha" moments – those pivotal points of insight and clarity where understanding blossoms and the pathway forward becomes illuminated.
(972) 449-9350 View (972) 449-9350
Photo of Alyssa Nicole Williamson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Nicole Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
If you have been through multiple rounds of treatment for your eating disorder, and never found relief, I would love to work together. I have had the JOY of helping many of my clients find hope and healing for the first time using a trauma focused approach and EMDR. I founded Embodied Counseling, where we specialize in last ditch attempts at recovery. We know chronic illness, trauma, or other complicating factors make traditional treatment less effective, and want you to have the individualized care you need. Our team believes that eating disorders are not a choice, but that full recovery is possible with the right support!
If you have been through multiple rounds of treatment for your eating disorder, and never found relief, I would love to work together. I have had the JOY of helping many of my clients find hope and healing for the first time using a trauma focused approach and EMDR. I founded Embodied Counseling, where we specialize in last ditch attempts at recovery. We know chronic illness, trauma, or other complicating factors make traditional treatment less effective, and want you to have the individualized care you need. Our team believes that eating disorders are not a choice, but that full recovery is possible with the right support!
(972) 268-7839 View (972) 268-7839
Photo of Joe Shaw, MA, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joe Shaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I am EMDR trained to assist in processing trauma, anxiety and other issues.
Do you want to go deeper than surface issues and deal with the root causes of your pain. I am able to guide you through that and journey with you as you grow into a better version of yourself. Life is hard. You don't have to go it alone. You can heal and recover. I specialize in dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief/loss, addictions, and major life transitions. You can develop a life worth living and you are more than the sum of your problems! I am offering telehealth sessions by video and phone. Accepting new patients who are self-paying or have some Blue Cross Blue Shield or Cigna PPO plans.
I am EMDR trained to assist in processing trauma, anxiety and other issues.
Do you want to go deeper than surface issues and deal with the root causes of your pain. I am able to guide you through that and journey with you as you grow into a better version of yourself. Life is hard. You don't have to go it alone. You can heal and recover. I specialize in dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship difficulties, grief/loss, addictions, and major life transitions. You can develop a life worth living and you are more than the sum of your problems! I am offering telehealth sessions by video and phone. Accepting new patients who are self-paying or have some Blue Cross Blue Shield or Cigna PPO plans.
(214) 506-3924 View (214) 506-3924
Photo of Stacey W. Farmer, MA, DMin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacey W. Farmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, DMin, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
Next, I became EMDR Certified (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Whether you need brief supportive therapy or have wounds from the past that are impacting you today, it is my goal to be a safe place for you. I work collaboratively with clients for a treatment plan that considers their spiritual, psychological, biological and social dimensions. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Christ-follower and have extensive experience helping clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, obsessions, grief, loss, anger, sense of self, relationships and spiritual issues. Additionally, I am passionate about coming alongside adults who have wounds that are affecting present day living.
Next, I became EMDR Certified (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Whether you need brief supportive therapy or have wounds from the past that are impacting you today, it is my goal to be a safe place for you. I work collaboratively with clients for a treatment plan that considers their spiritual, psychological, biological and social dimensions. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Christ-follower and have extensive experience helping clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, abuse, obsessions, grief, loss, anger, sense of self, relationships and spiritual issues. Additionally, I am passionate about coming alongside adults who have wounds that are affecting present day living.
(972) 992-1586 View (972) 992-1586
Photo of Melinda Porter, MA, LPC-S, AASECT, CST-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melinda Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, AASECT, CST-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Create a healthier self and find your voice! As an AASECT certified sex Therapist-Supervisor, EMDR trained therapist, LPC Supervisor, Trained Clinical Trauma Professional and certified CNM therapist ( SHA) , I believe in growing continuously, learning in all the moments, and remembering your journey will be forever changing. I am Licensed in both Texas and Colorado. I would be honored to work with you during the next part of your journey.
Create a healthier self and find your voice! As an AASECT certified sex Therapist-Supervisor, EMDR trained therapist, LPC Supervisor, Trained Clinical Trauma Professional and certified CNM therapist ( SHA) , I believe in growing continuously, learning in all the moments, and remembering your journey will be forever changing. I am Licensed in both Texas and Colorado. I would be honored to work with you during the next part of your journey.
(214) 915-2870 View (214) 915-2870
Photo of Renee Austin - Renee' Austin Trauma Therapy North Dallas PLLC, MEd, LPC-S, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renee' Austin Trauma Therapy North Dallas PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy have proven to be the most effective tools in eliminating the disturbing content, disturbing images and thoughts in relationship to your trauma.
Trauma is often weaved in and through the fabric of our lives. Many think of trauma as one large scale traumatic event. However, complex trauma is not always a single event. Trauma is failed attachment to our care takers, experiencing abuse/neglect, multiple losses, shattered relationships, or the inability to protect ourselves emotionally with healthy boundaries. The most disturbing part of a trauma is not only the event itself, but how we perceived the event, and the internalized negative core beliefs about ourselves that developed.
EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and Accelerated Resolution Therapy have proven to be the most effective tools in eliminating the disturbing content, disturbing images and thoughts in relationship to your trauma.
Trauma is often weaved in and through the fabric of our lives. Many think of trauma as one large scale traumatic event. However, complex trauma is not always a single event. Trauma is failed attachment to our care takers, experiencing abuse/neglect, multiple losses, shattered relationships, or the inability to protect ourselves emotionally with healthy boundaries. The most disturbing part of a trauma is not only the event itself, but how we perceived the event, and the internalized negative core beliefs about ourselves that developed.
(972) 318-2943 View (972) 318-2943
Photo of Tammy Blodgett, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Blodgett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Waitlist for new clients
Therapies used are cognitive behavioral, DBT, insight oriented, solution focused therapy, education and EMDR.
My passion is to identify the root cause of distress and resolve those issues that may be preventing you from experiencing life fully. I provide counseling services for adults experiencing a crisis, recent trauma, or on-going distress, while others may seek personal growth and development. Treatment is customized to meet your individual goals and unique needs.
Therapies used are cognitive behavioral, DBT, insight oriented, solution focused therapy, education and EMDR.
My passion is to identify the root cause of distress and resolve those issues that may be preventing you from experiencing life fully. I provide counseling services for adults experiencing a crisis, recent trauma, or on-going distress, while others may seek personal growth and development. Treatment is customized to meet your individual goals and unique needs.
(214) 717-6797 View (214) 717-6797
Photo of Carol Floch McColl, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carol Floch McColl
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I am trained in EMDR.
My passion is to give my clients hope; there is light at the end of the tunnel, but we cannot always find our way alone. My personal journey enhances my clinical training, enabling me to come alongside my clients in a supportive relationship of trust, empathy, and compassion to collaboratively navigate the difficult twists and turns of life. I seek to honor the unique design and potential of each individual as I help them explore their personal story, discover new ways to live effectively in the present, and embrace the possibilities of the future. My mini-goldendoodle, Barney, provides emotional support to my clients.
I am trained in EMDR.
My passion is to give my clients hope; there is light at the end of the tunnel, but we cannot always find our way alone. My personal journey enhances my clinical training, enabling me to come alongside my clients in a supportive relationship of trust, empathy, and compassion to collaboratively navigate the difficult twists and turns of life. I seek to honor the unique design and potential of each individual as I help them explore their personal story, discover new ways to live effectively in the present, and embrace the possibilities of the future. My mini-goldendoodle, Barney, provides emotional support to my clients.
(972) 360-9539 View (972) 360-9539
Photo of Lauren Gastorf, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Gastorf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I also offer EMDR.
Whether you're seeking to know yourself on a deeper level, healing from trauma, or experiencing a difficult transition, counseling is an incredible source of support. I believe in a collaborative, compassionate, holistic approach to help you feel your best and live your best life.
I also offer EMDR.
Whether you're seeking to know yourself on a deeper level, healing from trauma, or experiencing a difficult transition, counseling is an incredible source of support. I believe in a collaborative, compassionate, holistic approach to help you feel your best and live your best life.
(972) 347-0782 View (972) 347-0782
Photo of Ashley Kuehne, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley Kuehne
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I am a certified EMDR practitioner and consultant, certified in clinical hypnosis and an Independent Facilitator of Parenting the Love and Logic Way.
What drew me to the counseling field was my passion to advocate for people who have experience trauma (relational, spiritual, physical, sexual, emotional, and more). I take an integrative approach, meeting you wherever you are in the process and tailoring treatment based on my extensive training in trauma modalities. I cherish this process and helping survivors heal. As a mother of two, I have plenty of material to pull from and am equally passionate about working with parents, especially those who are facing parenting transitions and blended families. With support, validation and humor, I can help make parenting fun again.
I am a certified EMDR practitioner and consultant, certified in clinical hypnosis and an Independent Facilitator of Parenting the Love and Logic Way.
What drew me to the counseling field was my passion to advocate for people who have experience trauma (relational, spiritual, physical, sexual, emotional, and more). I take an integrative approach, meeting you wherever you are in the process and tailoring treatment based on my extensive training in trauma modalities. I cherish this process and helping survivors heal. As a mother of two, I have plenty of material to pull from and am equally passionate about working with parents, especially those who are facing parenting transitions and blended families. With support, validation and humor, I can help make parenting fun again.
(972) 665-6339 View (972) 665-6339
Photo of Jena Johnson Sternberg, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jena Johnson Sternberg
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Jena is trained in somatic and attachment focused EMDR therapy (The SAFE Approach) through the Personal Transformation Institute (PTI).
Jena offers an integrative counseling style that goes beyond traditional therapy. One will likely instantly feel comfort as a result of her warmth and authenticity. She provides a compassionate and supportive environment that fosters growth and healing. Jena has experience working with individuals who suffer with depression, anxiety, communication issues, women’s issues, chronic pain and trauma.
Jena is trained in somatic and attachment focused EMDR therapy (The SAFE Approach) through the Personal Transformation Institute (PTI).
Jena offers an integrative counseling style that goes beyond traditional therapy. One will likely instantly feel comfort as a result of her warmth and authenticity. She provides a compassionate and supportive environment that fosters growth and healing. Jena has experience working with individuals who suffer with depression, anxiety, communication issues, women’s issues, chronic pain and trauma.
(469) 415-0871 View (469) 415-0871
Photo of Brenna Nelson, MS, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brenna Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Hi! My name is Brenna and my goal is to help you step into the healthiest, most authentic version of yourself. I specialize in working with trauma and have extensive training in C-PTSD. I offer both EMDR and talk therapy to support your needs. I use a variety of techniques in my practice, with a special affinity for experiential and emotionally focused methods. Additionally, I integrate expressive arts, attachment theory, meditation, and the mind-body connection to try and create a transformative and meaningful experience. My strength-based, holistic, and integrative approach is tailored to resonate with your personal journey.
Hi! My name is Brenna and my goal is to help you step into the healthiest, most authentic version of yourself. I specialize in working with trauma and have extensive training in C-PTSD. I offer both EMDR and talk therapy to support your needs. I use a variety of techniques in my practice, with a special affinity for experiential and emotionally focused methods. Additionally, I integrate expressive arts, attachment theory, meditation, and the mind-body connection to try and create a transformative and meaningful experience. My strength-based, holistic, and integrative approach is tailored to resonate with your personal journey.
(469) 719-3806 View (469) 719-3806
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.