Photo of Laurie Kendig, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laurie Kendig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I specialize in the treatment of Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression and Women's Issues using a number of therapy techniques including ART, EMDR, CBT, Attachment Theory, Solution Focused and more.
I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) for rapid recovery of trauma, PTSD, anxiety, medical/dental phobias and more in just 1-3 sessions. I believe therapy is a partnership, allowing you to understand your needs, discover your strengths and develop resilience while setting the goals you want to accomplish. Whether meeting with me in person or virtually, I create a safe, relaxed space for you that is welcoming, supportive, and affirming.
I specialize in the treatment of Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Depression and Women's Issues using a number of therapy techniques including ART, EMDR, CBT, Attachment Theory, Solution Focused and more.
I am trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) for rapid recovery of trauma, PTSD, anxiety, medical/dental phobias and more in just 1-3 sessions. I believe therapy is a partnership, allowing you to understand your needs, discover your strengths and develop resilience while setting the goals you want to accomplish. Whether meeting with me in person or virtually, I create a safe, relaxed space for you that is welcoming, supportive, and affirming.
(469) 382-1834 View (469) 382-1834
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 Riley Nyberg, LPC-A, NCC, LPC Intern
Riley Nyberg
LPC Intern, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I have completed EMDR basic training.
Riley Nyberg is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate in the state of Texas and is under the supervision of Megan Krizan, M.Ed., LPC-S, RPT-S at Nova Cesta Counseling. She graduated with a M.S. in Counseling from Southern Methodist University in 2022.
I have completed EMDR basic training.
Riley Nyberg is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate in the state of Texas and is under the supervision of Megan Krizan, M.Ed., LPC-S, RPT-S at Nova Cesta Counseling. She graduated with a M.S. in Counseling from Southern Methodist University in 2022.
(469) 564-4641 View (469) 564-4641
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 Turquoise E. Pipes, MS, LPC-S, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Turquoise E. Pipes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina. I believe that every person has the ability to reach to their fullest potential in life with the right support network and guidance. I have a broad range of counseling experience working with young children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I use EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy and to assist clients who are interested in establishing better communication skills, have a desire to build healthier relationships, and want to learn positive strategies when dealing with life's day to day challenges.
Welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the State of Texas, Georgia, and South Carolina. I believe that every person has the ability to reach to their fullest potential in life with the right support network and guidance. I have a broad range of counseling experience working with young children, adolescents, and adults of all ages. I use EMDR and cognitive behavioral therapy and to assist clients who are interested in establishing better communication skills, have a desire to build healthier relationships, and want to learn positive strategies when dealing with life's day to day challenges.
(214) 978-3879 View (214) 978-3879
Photo of Karoline Argo Riech, BA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karoline Argo Riech
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
My counseling approach is collaborative in nature, with the goal of providing a comfortable, warm environment for my clients. I incorporate different counseling techniques from a wide range of theories, but tend to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This type of therapy helps people overcome irrational, dysfunctional, and unhealthy thought processes that tend to add to and prolong emotional strain, trauma, and tension. I combine aspects such as EMDR, expressive arts, fitness, nutrition and nervous system regulation strategies into sessions.
My counseling approach is collaborative in nature, with the goal of providing a comfortable, warm environment for my clients. I incorporate different counseling techniques from a wide range of theories, but tend to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This type of therapy helps people overcome irrational, dysfunctional, and unhealthy thought processes that tend to add to and prolong emotional strain, trauma, and tension. I combine aspects such as EMDR, expressive arts, fitness, nutrition and nervous system regulation strategies into sessions.
(214) 736-7493 View (214) 736-7493
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 Eric Rausch, LPC-A, MA, MLS, NCC
Eric Rausch
LPC-Associate, LPC-A, MA, MLS, NCC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Trained in EMDR, CBT & Art Therapy- proven top trauma therapies.
I focus on working with adults, couples, and teens. We know that many of our challenges are often connected somehow. Problems can become entangled, which makes them really hard to manage and resolve. And when we take notice, we see how so many aspects and relationships in our lives are affected. I want to learn who you are, listen to your story, and understand what you need from this process. Gaining insight and learning effective skills can help you handle almost anything life throws at you. Getting started can seem hard, but always remember: Every wonderful journey begins with the first step.
Trained in EMDR, CBT & Art Therapy- proven top trauma therapies.
I focus on working with adults, couples, and teens. We know that many of our challenges are often connected somehow. Problems can become entangled, which makes them really hard to manage and resolve. And when we take notice, we see how so many aspects and relationships in our lives are affected. I want to learn who you are, listen to your story, and understand what you need from this process. Gaining insight and learning effective skills can help you handle almost anything life throws at you. Getting started can seem hard, but always remember: Every wonderful journey begins with the first step.
(214) 833-8031 View (214) 833-8031
Photo of Daniel Williamson, MA, LPC - A, EMDR-T
Daniel Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC - A, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I provide an empathetic and judgement free environment for you to process your experiences, clarify your goals through identifying your personal values and strengths, and strategize a path forward, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Person Centered Therapy, and Solutions Based Therapy.
Change is a part of life. Sometimes it can be easy to navigate, but sometimes change can knock you off your feet. I’m here to help you get back up, find direction, and move towards your goals.
I provide an empathetic and judgement free environment for you to process your experiences, clarify your goals through identifying your personal values and strengths, and strategize a path forward, using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Person Centered Therapy, and Solutions Based Therapy.
Change is a part of life. Sometimes it can be easy to navigate, but sometimes change can knock you off your feet. I’m here to help you get back up, find direction, and move towards your goals.
(214) 239-4115 View (214) 239-4115
Photo of Bonny Stewart - Bloom Child Psychology, PLLC, PsyD, MEd, RPT-S, Psychologist
Bloom Child Psychology, PLLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd, RPT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
She has advanced training in Play Therapy, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and trauma informed interventions including EMDR and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Dr. Bonny Stewart is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Specialist in School Psychologist, and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. She has advanced specialization working with children and families. Her passion is to help parents find answers and understanding to help their child succeed at home, school, and in all aspects of their lives.
She has advanced training in Play Therapy, Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and trauma informed interventions including EMDR and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Dr. Bonny Stewart is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Specialist in School Psychologist, and Registered Play Therapist-Supervisor. She has advanced specialization working with children and families. Her passion is to help parents find answers and understanding to help their child succeed at home, school, and in all aspects of their lives.
(469) 457-4197 View (469) 457-4197
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 David H Pickup, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David H Pickup
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I specialize in: Addictions, Gender dysphoria/sexuality and related issues, EMDR, marriage and family therapy, depression and anxiety issues, spiritual/faith issues, with children, adolescents and adults. Whatever you do...contact me first for the latest treatment for addictions and the above. Feeling State work ( EMDR) is the latest treatment for the issues above, and it is fast becoming the quickest method to address addiction issues. To discover and live from the authentic self is paramount to my work. A therapeutic atmosphere not only includes expertise, but includes a trusting, non-judgmental experience in which issues are compassionately explored.
I specialize in: Addictions, Gender dysphoria/sexuality and related issues, EMDR, marriage and family therapy, depression and anxiety issues, spiritual/faith issues, with children, adolescents and adults. Whatever you do...contact me first for the latest treatment for addictions and the above. Feeling State work ( EMDR) is the latest treatment for the issues above, and it is fast becoming the quickest method to address addiction issues. To discover and live from the authentic self is paramount to my work. A therapeutic atmosphere not only includes expertise, but includes a trusting, non-judgmental experience in which issues are compassionately explored.
(888) 288-2071 View (888) 288-2071
Photo of Kathy Prial, LMFT, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy Prial
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMFT, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
I have specialized training/experience in: EMDR; Substance Abuse; Grief Therapy; Case Work; Victim Advocacy; and non-medical Companion Care.
Need help and want someone to talk to? I have the counseling, professional, and life experience that can help you through your personal, family, relationship and/or work issues. As your counselor, I will provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself and explore the past, present, and future you. I will guide you through the process using counseling techniques which will be personalized to align with your values and to support your goals. I look forward to helping you work through your issues and allow you to move forward with your life!
I have specialized training/experience in: EMDR; Substance Abuse; Grief Therapy; Case Work; Victim Advocacy; and non-medical Companion Care.
Need help and want someone to talk to? I have the counseling, professional, and life experience that can help you through your personal, family, relationship and/or work issues. As your counselor, I will provide a safe and supportive space where you can express yourself and explore the past, present, and future you. I will guide you through the process using counseling techniques which will be personalized to align with your values and to support your goals. I look forward to helping you work through your issues and allow you to move forward with your life!
(469) 336-3267 View (469) 336-3267
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 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 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 Lisa Godasi, LMFT-S, LCDC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Godasi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive training in the Gottman Method for Couples, am trained in the use of EMDR (Levels I and II) for use in trauma, anxiety, and addictions and am trained in and utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy for use in treatment of severe mood disorders and personality disorders.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, I specialize in marital therapy, anxiety disorders, substance abuse recovery, family systems, and trauma work. I have spent the last twenty plus years serving adults, couples, children, and teens in a variety of settings, including home-based family preservation services, community mental health family services, and outpatient private practice. My focus is to utilize all members of a family to strengthen and rebuild relationships.
I have extensive training in the Gottman Method for Couples, am trained in the use of EMDR (Levels I and II) for use in trauma, anxiety, and addictions and am trained in and utilize Dialectical Behavior Therapy for use in treatment of severe mood disorders and personality disorders.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, I specialize in marital therapy, anxiety disorders, substance abuse recovery, family systems, and trauma work. I have spent the last twenty plus years serving adults, couples, children, and teens in a variety of settings, including home-based family preservation services, community mental health family services, and outpatient private practice. My focus is to utilize all members of a family to strengthen and rebuild relationships.
(214) 974-3599 View (214) 974-3599
Photo of Laura Nelson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Nelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I use evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR, tailored to your unique needs.
Life can be challenging, but it's also full of opportunities for growth and positive change. If you're a teenager, young adult, or Millennial navigating the complexities of life, you're not alone. I'm here to offer you a safe and supportive space to explore your challenges and empower you to live the life you desire. I specialize in working with individuals addressing a range of issues including generational trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, stress, relationships, communication, and boundary setting. Let's work together to create a personalized plan that addresses your challenges and supports your overall well being.
I use evidence-based approaches like CBT and EMDR, tailored to your unique needs.
Life can be challenging, but it's also full of opportunities for growth and positive change. If you're a teenager, young adult, or Millennial navigating the complexities of life, you're not alone. I'm here to offer you a safe and supportive space to explore your challenges and empower you to live the life you desire. I specialize in working with individuals addressing a range of issues including generational trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, stress, relationships, communication, and boundary setting. Let's work together to create a personalized plan that addresses your challenges and supports your overall well being.
(972) 440-5178 View (972) 440-5178
Photo of Jonathan Pruitt, LPC, LCDC, NCC, EMDR, CSAT-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jonathan Pruitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC, NCC, EMDR, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I also have specialized training in EMDR, PIT (family of origin trauma), and ongoing pursuit of CSAT certification.
My passion lies in empowering clients to overcome obstacles and realize their full potential, whether addressing addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and/or trauma, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for exploration and transformation. Through individual and group therapy modalities, I strive to foster resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful connections, guiding each individual towards a life of fulfillment and well-being.
I also have specialized training in EMDR, PIT (family of origin trauma), and ongoing pursuit of CSAT certification.
My passion lies in empowering clients to overcome obstacles and realize their full potential, whether addressing addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and/or trauma, I provide a safe and nonjudgmental space for exploration and transformation. Through individual and group therapy modalities, I strive to foster resilience, self-awareness, and meaningful connections, guiding each individual towards a life of fulfillment and well-being.
(469) 772-6864 View (469) 772-6864
Photo of April Murray-Bravo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Murray-Bravo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
My approach is eclectic, combining several techniques, including EMDR.
It can be overwhelming to find the right counselor or a sex therapist. Sharing your private life and struggles is difficult. Whether you are experiencing relationship conflicts, intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction or dissatisfaction, sexual identity struggles, uncertainty about the quality of your life, anxiety, depression, or any number of emotions, it can be challenging to know where to go or who to turn to make things better. In my private practice, my role as a therapist is to work with you to face challenges, find solutions, and help improve your life. You will not have to do it alone.
My approach is eclectic, combining several techniques, including EMDR.
It can be overwhelming to find the right counselor or a sex therapist. Sharing your private life and struggles is difficult. Whether you are experiencing relationship conflicts, intimacy issues, sexual dysfunction or dissatisfaction, sexual identity struggles, uncertainty about the quality of your life, anxiety, depression, or any number of emotions, it can be challenging to know where to go or who to turn to make things better. In my private practice, my role as a therapist is to work with you to face challenges, find solutions, and help improve your life. You will not have to do it alone.
(214) 225-8796 View (214) 225-8796
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.