EMDR Therapists in Alabama

Photo of Brandie Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Brandie Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Rainbow City, AL 35906
I am trained in EMDR and view most sessions through that lens.
I want to help clients build the life they want to live. Our world is full of brokenness and it leaves it's marks on us all. But there is also great hope...People can heal, learn, grow and thrive. I welcome all parts of you—all the feelings, thoughts, sensations…they are all welcome. I want to help prepare the way for healing to happen. I strive to create a space for your authentic self to be welcome, open, and willing to engage in the healing process. Instead of being stuck in the past or paralyzed by the future, let me help you fully embrace your life today.
I am trained in EMDR and view most sessions through that lens.
I want to help clients build the life they want to live. Our world is full of brokenness and it leaves it's marks on us all. But there is also great hope...People can heal, learn, grow and thrive. I welcome all parts of you—all the feelings, thoughts, sensations…they are all welcome. I want to help prepare the way for healing to happen. I strive to create a space for your authentic self to be welcome, open, and willing to engage in the healing process. Instead of being stuck in the past or paralyzed by the future, let me help you fully embrace your life today.
(256) 685-4772 View (256) 685-4772
Photo of Joanna Milkay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Joanna Milkay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Pelham, AL 35124
EMDR has offered the most improvement for my clients.
It's time to make that important step for change. The support of counseling can build on motivation and promote better health and wellness. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults since 2003. Call today and see what you are capable of doing for yourself or your family.
EMDR has offered the most improvement for my clients.
It's time to make that important step for change. The support of counseling can build on motivation and promote better health and wellness. I have worked with children, adolescents, and adults since 2003. Call today and see what you are capable of doing for yourself or your family.
(205) 390-7106 View (205) 390-7106
Photo of Ashley Yeager, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Ashley Yeager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
I'm a TBRI practitioner and I utilize EMDR, IFS, and Theraplay.
Is your life filled with stress and worries? Are you struggling with past or recent hurts? Does it feel like your family or relationships are in disarray? Have you noticed parenting is not easy? Add in aspects such as anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, neglect, etc. and life can feel overwhelming. Sometimes we are worried about seeking help or don't know where to start. Therapy is a step toward healing and hope for change.
I'm a TBRI practitioner and I utilize EMDR, IFS, and Theraplay.
Is your life filled with stress and worries? Are you struggling with past or recent hurts? Does it feel like your family or relationships are in disarray? Have you noticed parenting is not easy? Add in aspects such as anxiety, depression, trauma, abuse, neglect, etc. and life can feel overwhelming. Sometimes we are worried about seeking help or don't know where to start. Therapy is a step toward healing and hope for change.
(659) 200-6192 View (659) 200-6192
Photo of Heather Thomas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alabama
Heather Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Northport, AL 35473
I have training in Attachment Family Therapy and EMDR.
Sometimes life can get the better of us. You may no longer recognize yourself or how you got here. Most overwhelming can be that you don’t know how to make it stop. You may feel trapped in thought, behavior, and relationship patterns that seem beyond your control. You can't make sense of your feelings, or perhaps you feel so disconnected, you are numb to your emotions. If you have found yourself here, I imagine that you are seeking relief and hope.
I have training in Attachment Family Therapy and EMDR.
Sometimes life can get the better of us. You may no longer recognize yourself or how you got here. Most overwhelming can be that you don’t know how to make it stop. You may feel trapped in thought, behavior, and relationship patterns that seem beyond your control. You can't make sense of your feelings, or perhaps you feel so disconnected, you are numb to your emotions. If you have found yourself here, I imagine that you are seeking relief and hope.
(205) 875-4669 View (205) 875-4669
Photo of Margaret Durham Bossaller, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Margaret Durham Bossaller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACHP-SW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
I am a licensed clinical independent social worker (LICSW) with over a decade of experience practicing as a therapist. I particularly enjoy working with individuals in times of significant transition and those seeking to heal trauma and/or burnout. My areas of specialization include perinatal and parental mental health, treatment of trauma and stress-related disorders, grief and loss, and providing affirming treatment for LGBTQ+ individuals. I presently hold certifications in perinatal mental health, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, and hospice and palliative care.
I am a licensed clinical independent social worker (LICSW) with over a decade of experience practicing as a therapist. I particularly enjoy working with individuals in times of significant transition and those seeking to heal trauma and/or burnout. My areas of specialization include perinatal and parental mental health, treatment of trauma and stress-related disorders, grief and loss, and providing affirming treatment for LGBTQ+ individuals. I presently hold certifications in perinatal mental health, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, and hospice and palliative care.
(256) 795-2999 View (256) 795-2999
Photo of Tracy Lambrecht, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Tracy Lambrecht
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chelsea, AL 35043
Being trained and certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) has equipped me with a solid foundation to address the complex needs of chronic illnesses and unresolved pain.
Are you a female seeking relief from chronic or unexplained pain? Distressing life events, emotional distress, and negative thought patterns can significantly impact our ability to control our physical pain. It can be so overwhelming to figure out this complex web of symptoms on your own. My goals are to help reduce your symptoms, address any underlying psychological factors that may contribute to your pain, and create specific interventions to assist you in managing your pain.
Being trained and certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) has equipped me with a solid foundation to address the complex needs of chronic illnesses and unresolved pain.
Are you a female seeking relief from chronic or unexplained pain? Distressing life events, emotional distress, and negative thought patterns can significantly impact our ability to control our physical pain. It can be so overwhelming to figure out this complex web of symptoms on your own. My goals are to help reduce your symptoms, address any underlying psychological factors that may contribute to your pain, and create specific interventions to assist you in managing your pain.
(205) 202-9685 View (205) 202-9685
Photo of Interwoven Therapy LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Interwoven Therapy LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35209
I utilize trauma-focused therapies such as Brainspotting and EMDR for trauma and attachment wounds.
Hi! Please call me Kat. While change can be done alone, it is often fragmented and limited to our self-awareness. I believe that the transformative power that comes from a safe, supportive, and empathic relationship can act as a fertilizer and accelerate personal and transformational growth. It is through connectedness and relationships that we can see our blind spots, discover our incongruences, and get in contact with our more authentic selves. Pursuing change in a vacuum can often leave us in a feedback loop. We may need help to redirect our focus and energy towards a more productive path.
I utilize trauma-focused therapies such as Brainspotting and EMDR for trauma and attachment wounds.
Hi! Please call me Kat. While change can be done alone, it is often fragmented and limited to our self-awareness. I believe that the transformative power that comes from a safe, supportive, and empathic relationship can act as a fertilizer and accelerate personal and transformational growth. It is through connectedness and relationships that we can see our blind spots, discover our incongruences, and get in contact with our more authentic selves. Pursuing change in a vacuum can often leave us in a feedback loop. We may need help to redirect our focus and energy towards a more productive path.
(205) 255-9164 View (205) 255-9164
Photo of Amaris Roye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Amaris Roye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226
I am trained in attachment focused EMDR and Brainspotting.
I believe that each of us are resilient humans that seek ways to survive and manage difficult situations/experiences. Whether you have an eating disorder, body image distress, symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, or are trying to navigate stressful circumstances in your life, I believe that there is hope for a fuller life.
I am trained in attachment focused EMDR and Brainspotting.
I believe that each of us are resilient humans that seek ways to survive and manage difficult situations/experiences. Whether you have an eating disorder, body image distress, symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, or are trying to navigate stressful circumstances in your life, I believe that there is hope for a fuller life.
(659) 200-6019 View (659) 200-6019
Photo of Sara Cook Warner, Counselor in Alabama
Sara Cook Warner
Counselor, MA, ALC, APTT
Verified Verified
Birmingham, AL 35242
Waitlist for new clients
There is so much beauty in being honest and vulnerable. As a therapist, it is a privilege to be able to create a safe space for my clients—a space that gives them an opportunity to build strength, awareness, and resilience. Seeking therapy does not indicate failure or brokenness and I would be honored to walk alongside you as you navigate your life journey. I specialize in trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety of all ages. I have certifications in Brainspotting, EMDR and TF-CBT. I am also an Associate Partner Trauma Therapist through IITAP which enables me to help betrayed partners navigating betrayal trauma.
There is so much beauty in being honest and vulnerable. As a therapist, it is a privilege to be able to create a safe space for my clients—a space that gives them an opportunity to build strength, awareness, and resilience. Seeking therapy does not indicate failure or brokenness and I would be honored to walk alongside you as you navigate your life journey. I specialize in trauma, grief, depression, and anxiety of all ages. I have certifications in Brainspotting, EMDR and TF-CBT. I am also an Associate Partner Trauma Therapist through IITAP which enables me to help betrayed partners navigating betrayal trauma.
(205) 662-2888 View (205) 662-2888
Photo of Sarah Goff McCrory, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Sarah Goff McCrory
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Hope Hull, AL 36043
I am an EMDR practitioner.
My name is Sarah, and I’m a counselor. My husband and I founded Sanctuary Counseling and Wellness with the idea that a sanctuary represents a place of retreat and rest. I believe that in order to process and work through the difficult things that are a part of our stories, we have to feel safe. Many of us may logically know we are safe, but we may not have FELT safe. It is my goal that at Sanctuary you will feel a sense of peace and emotional safety, which will lead to the ability to be yourself and start working on living the life you were born to live.
I am an EMDR practitioner.
My name is Sarah, and I’m a counselor. My husband and I founded Sanctuary Counseling and Wellness with the idea that a sanctuary represents a place of retreat and rest. I believe that in order to process and work through the difficult things that are a part of our stories, we have to feel safe. Many of us may logically know we are safe, but we may not have FELT safe. It is my goal that at Sanctuary you will feel a sense of peace and emotional safety, which will lead to the ability to be yourself and start working on living the life you were born to live.
(334) 258-1561 View (334) 258-1561
Photo of Greg Evans, Counselor in Alabama
Greg Evans
Counselor, MDiv, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tuscaloosa, AL 35401
I am the first person in Tuscaloosa to offer MCN Neurofeedback as well as EMDR, a phenomenal modality used to treat anxiety, depression, PTSD.
Down To Earth Counseling is a professional and caring environment for all who need help getting through life that can be painful and confusing. Greg has extensive training and experience working with anxiety, trauma, and family and relational challenges. He works with diverse populations, including victims of rape, incest, and combat -related PTSD. He works with issues including depression, fears/phobias, religious beliefs, and anger/unforgiveness. He offers premarital therapy, and works with couples in crisis. Finally, Greg walks through life with many "plain old people with plain old problems."
I am the first person in Tuscaloosa to offer MCN Neurofeedback as well as EMDR, a phenomenal modality used to treat anxiety, depression, PTSD.
Down To Earth Counseling is a professional and caring environment for all who need help getting through life that can be painful and confusing. Greg has extensive training and experience working with anxiety, trauma, and family and relational challenges. He works with diverse populations, including victims of rape, incest, and combat -related PTSD. He works with issues including depression, fears/phobias, religious beliefs, and anger/unforgiveness. He offers premarital therapy, and works with couples in crisis. Finally, Greg walks through life with many "plain old people with plain old problems."
(205) 610-9974 View (205) 610-9974
Photo of James P Desta, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
James P Desta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35801
I practice attachment-focused EMDR, so means I'm really interested in who you are and where you came from.
As both a therapist and a person, I understand that life sometimes serves up hard-to-categorize problems that can be overwhelming. I'm very familiar with issues like depression, anxiety, and addiction, and my training and certification in EMDR allows me to be especially effective with trauma resolution and attachment repair. My career started on a hospital behavioral health inpatient unit, which has allowed me to become comfortable with some pretty intense situations, but my background is varied and I work well with all ages. Therapy with me is relaxed yet focused - and I promise not to ask you how that makes you feel.
I practice attachment-focused EMDR, so means I'm really interested in who you are and where you came from.
As both a therapist and a person, I understand that life sometimes serves up hard-to-categorize problems that can be overwhelming. I'm very familiar with issues like depression, anxiety, and addiction, and my training and certification in EMDR allows me to be especially effective with trauma resolution and attachment repair. My career started on a hospital behavioral health inpatient unit, which has allowed me to become comfortable with some pretty intense situations, but my background is varied and I work well with all ages. Therapy with me is relaxed yet focused - and I promise not to ask you how that makes you feel.
(256) 645-8832 View (256) 645-8832
Photo of Ashlie Stegemann, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Ashlie Stegemann
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Montgomery, AL 36121
I also use tools such as meditation, mindfulness and EMDR just to name a few.
Are you ready to begin working towards your most fulfilling and satisfying life? You may feel stressed and overwhelmed with the responsibilities of everyday life. You may struggle with really connecting with others in relationships or you may be feeling you are inadequate in some way. I practice client-centered therapy and believe you are the expert in your own life. I would like to partner with you on your journey towards healing and self-actualization. You may have experienced hurts in your life that you would like to work through or understand better. You may benefit from assistance with stress management and healthy coping.
I also use tools such as meditation, mindfulness and EMDR just to name a few.
Are you ready to begin working towards your most fulfilling and satisfying life? You may feel stressed and overwhelmed with the responsibilities of everyday life. You may struggle with really connecting with others in relationships or you may be feeling you are inadequate in some way. I practice client-centered therapy and believe you are the expert in your own life. I would like to partner with you on your journey towards healing and self-actualization. You may have experienced hurts in your life that you would like to work through or understand better. You may benefit from assistance with stress management and healthy coping.
(334) 666-7488 View (334) 666-7488
Photo of Jeffrey L Eiland, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Jeffrey L Eiland
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hoover, AL 35226  (Online Only)
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional II (CCTP-II), an EMDRIA approved EMDR therapist, and I am trained in Brainspotting Phases I & II to meet the specific needs of each client.
With years of knowledge and experience working with clients who have experienced abuse, trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, substance abuse, depression, and a variety of other mental health disorders. I offer a safe and supportive space to explore your struggles and work with you to find a path forward. Life has taught me that everyone has struggles and is either going through something or has been through something. I know it takes courage to ask for help... I respect and admire that courage. I will meet you where you are non-judgmentally and together, we can work toward your healing and growth.
I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional II (CCTP-II), an EMDRIA approved EMDR therapist, and I am trained in Brainspotting Phases I & II to meet the specific needs of each client.
With years of knowledge and experience working with clients who have experienced abuse, trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, substance abuse, depression, and a variety of other mental health disorders. I offer a safe and supportive space to explore your struggles and work with you to find a path forward. Life has taught me that everyone has struggles and is either going through something or has been through something. I know it takes courage to ask for help... I respect and admire that courage. I will meet you where you are non-judgmentally and together, we can work toward your healing and growth.
(205) 927-6838 View (205) 927-6838
Photo of Candace Jules, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Candace Jules
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Huntsville, AL 35802
A few treatment modalities I offer include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & Sand Tray Play Therapy, to name a few.
I have committed myself to being a knowledgeable and competent professional equipped to help a wide spectrum of clients from all walks of life who may have an equally wide range of needs. I believe you are the expert of your story, and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you, cause you distress, or make you feel “stuck”. I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities to fit your needs so my approach is very client-centered; what may work for one individual may not work for the next even if there are similar diagnosis or challenges. I welcome the opportunity to work with you!
A few treatment modalities I offer include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, & Sand Tray Play Therapy, to name a few.
I have committed myself to being a knowledgeable and competent professional equipped to help a wide spectrum of clients from all walks of life who may have an equally wide range of needs. I believe you are the expert of your story, and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you, cause you distress, or make you feel “stuck”. I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities to fit your needs so my approach is very client-centered; what may work for one individual may not work for the next even if there are similar diagnosis or challenges. I welcome the opportunity to work with you!
(256) 371-5550 View (256) 371-5550
Photo of Pamela Quekemeyer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Pamela Quekemeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35226
I utilize a unique combination of trauma informed therapies that focus on how the body processes painful experiences (EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic Practice, Parts Work, and experiential activities).
Therapy is a journey into self-awareness. My private practice, Birmingham Therapy Services LLC, focuses on addressing presenting symptoms that can be a manifestation of our past and current experiences. Creating a safe environment is fundamental to therapeutic success. My role is to help the client identify what skills are needed in order for them to feel safe; this includes gathering an understanding of past and present experiences, resource building, coping skills development, psychoeducation, and discovering ones strengths. This approach is key in preparing a client's nervous system for the deep dive work.
I utilize a unique combination of trauma informed therapies that focus on how the body processes painful experiences (EMDR, Brainspotting, Somatic Practice, Parts Work, and experiential activities).
Therapy is a journey into self-awareness. My private practice, Birmingham Therapy Services LLC, focuses on addressing presenting symptoms that can be a manifestation of our past and current experiences. Creating a safe environment is fundamental to therapeutic success. My role is to help the client identify what skills are needed in order for them to feel safe; this includes gathering an understanding of past and present experiences, resource building, coping skills development, psychoeducation, and discovering ones strengths. This approach is key in preparing a client's nervous system for the deep dive work.
(205) 928-8532 View (205) 928-8532
Photo of Morgan H Spivey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Morgan H Spivey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36602
My therapeutic approach is primarily a narrative framework, however I use many tools including EMDR, Play Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy to care for clients.
These past few years have brought a global traumatic event to the doorsteps of our lives and hearts. Whether this feels new to you or deeply familiar, your story and experience is worth attunement and care. I am passionate about seeing redemption come in the lives of children and adults who have experienced trauma and loss. Events in our lives fragment our hearts, minds, and bodies, and we are in need of repair- both with ourselves and each other. I see children, adults, and couples, and I have extensive training in trauma and abuse. I see clients for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
My therapeutic approach is primarily a narrative framework, however I use many tools including EMDR, Play Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy to care for clients.
These past few years have brought a global traumatic event to the doorsteps of our lives and hearts. Whether this feels new to you or deeply familiar, your story and experience is worth attunement and care. I am passionate about seeing redemption come in the lives of children and adults who have experienced trauma and loss. Events in our lives fragment our hearts, minds, and bodies, and we are in need of repair- both with ourselves and each other. I see children, adults, and couples, and I have extensive training in trauma and abuse. I see clients for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
(251) 244-3360 View (251) 244-3360
Photo of Warnie Mitch Robertson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alabama
Warnie Mitch Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, D, Min, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, AL 35611
I have a D.Min in Family Therapy and over thirty years experience working with individuals and families regarding a variety of interest including grief issues and addictions. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus, EMDR, hypnosis, mindfulness for stress reduction, Gottman Couple Therapy techniques, and Christian counseling.
I have a D.Min in Family Therapy and over thirty years experience working with individuals and families regarding a variety of interest including grief issues and addictions. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus, EMDR, hypnosis, mindfulness for stress reduction, Gottman Couple Therapy techniques, and Christian counseling.
(256) 414-9147 View (256) 414-9147
Photo of Jeanna Reed, Counselor in Alabama
Jeanna Reed
Counselor, MA, ALC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Homewood, AL 35209
I've received training in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and play therapy.
Does daily life sometimes feel like a struggle? It may be difficult to get out of your home and step into the world some days. It is okay to not be okay. I'm thankful for your courage in taking this step to find support. You have all the tools within yourself to take positive steps. As your counselor, I hope to help you navigate your world and provide empathic insight and interventions to assist you for your goals in life. I value your diversity, uniqueness, beliefs, and worldview; it is my priority to provide a nonjudgemental and emotionally safe space for you. I'm honored to be considered to help you in this season of your life.
I've received training in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and play therapy.
Does daily life sometimes feel like a struggle? It may be difficult to get out of your home and step into the world some days. It is okay to not be okay. I'm thankful for your courage in taking this step to find support. You have all the tools within yourself to take positive steps. As your counselor, I hope to help you navigate your world and provide empathic insight and interventions to assist you for your goals in life. I value your diversity, uniqueness, beliefs, and worldview; it is my priority to provide a nonjudgemental and emotionally safe space for you. I'm honored to be considered to help you in this season of your life.
(205) 350-9411 View (205) 350-9411
Photo of Donna Sisson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Alabama
Donna Sisson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Birmingham, AL 35242
I am an experienced Counselor, EMDR Therapist, and Certified Coach assisting Individuals, Couples, and Families needing help with life transitions, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, stress, career, and relationships.
Life can be challenging. At one time or another, we all confront a problem we don't want to face alone. Often, it's a dilemma in which our usual solutions don't work, and we can't seem to come up with new strategies that do.
I am an experienced Counselor, EMDR Therapist, and Certified Coach assisting Individuals, Couples, and Families needing help with life transitions, anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, stress, career, and relationships.
Life can be challenging. At one time or another, we all confront a problem we don't want to face alone. Often, it's a dilemma in which our usual solutions don't work, and we can't seem to come up with new strategies that do.
(205) 351-0323 View (205) 351-0323
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.