EMDR Therapists in Hempstead County, AR

Photo of Madilynn Nolen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hempstead County, AR
Madilynn Nolen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hope, AR 71801
Do you ever feel overwhelmed at what life has had to offer? Have you ever been hurt, and don’t know where to start to lessen the impact it has caused? I want you to know that you can have a happier life that is less stressful and more fulfilling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, and I have over 15 years of experience counseling children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I would like to help you in achieving the self-awareness you need to promote personal growth and emotional stability.
Do you ever feel overwhelmed at what life has had to offer? Have you ever been hurt, and don’t know where to start to lessen the impact it has caused? I want you to know that you can have a happier life that is less stressful and more fulfilling. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in the state of Texas, and I have over 15 years of experience counseling children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I would like to help you in achieving the self-awareness you need to promote personal growth and emotional stability.
(870) 568-3087 View (870) 568-3087
Photo of Joel Blake Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hempstead County, AR
Joel Blake Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Hope, AR 71802
"Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light." — Albus Dumbledore. I consider clients to be experts in their own lives, clients know what suggestions sound appealing to them to help deal with problems in life. We may not always be able to change the outcome of our situations in life, though we certainly can help how we respond to problems that arise. I want to showcase to clients that change is possible, regardless of the circumstances that they may be facing, growth is possible to help us heal from our worries.
"Happiness can be found even in the darkest of times if one only remembers to turn on the light." — Albus Dumbledore. I consider clients to be experts in their own lives, clients know what suggestions sound appealing to them to help deal with problems in life. We may not always be able to change the outcome of our situations in life, though we certainly can help how we respond to problems that arise. I want to showcase to clients that change is possible, regardless of the circumstances that they may be facing, growth is possible to help us heal from our worries.
(870) 376-4754 View (870) 376-4754

Online Therapists

Photo of Dustin J Morrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hempstead County, AR
Dustin J Morrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Bryant, AR 72022
My approach is based on evidence-based counseling methods (Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR) which means they've been proven effective by reliable research.
Having a broad range of experience as a counselor means I’m competent in treating a wide variety of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, personality disorders, and traumatic stress. I’m passionate about developing relationships with my clients and working with them to find practical skills and new ways of thinking that fit their lifestyle and are useful in helping them get where they want to be in life!
My approach is based on evidence-based counseling methods (Person Centered, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR) which means they've been proven effective by reliable research.
Having a broad range of experience as a counselor means I’m competent in treating a wide variety of presenting concerns including anxiety, depression, relationship problems, personality disorders, and traumatic stress. I’m passionate about developing relationships with my clients and working with them to find practical skills and new ways of thinking that fit their lifestyle and are useful in helping them get where they want to be in life!
(501) 575-1023 View (501) 575-1023
Photo of Brandi Rogers, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hempstead County, AR
Brandi Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Hall, AR 71602
I commonly use Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, and EMDR to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, mood disorder, and life transitions.
First time trying therapy or looking for a different experience. No problem. I will meet you where you are. We will start small, building on strengths, abilities, and natural supports. We will journey together navigating current stressors, life changing experiences, and or trauma. We will work to develop a plan forward and toward your goals. Focusing on your well-being and small positive changes. No matter what you are carrying, we can lighten your load together. You are not alone. Let's wade through the heaviness and bring you to a place of peace and calm. You can do this.
I commonly use Trauma Focused- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness Practices, and EMDR to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, grief, mood disorder, and life transitions.
First time trying therapy or looking for a different experience. No problem. I will meet you where you are. We will start small, building on strengths, abilities, and natural supports. We will journey together navigating current stressors, life changing experiences, and or trauma. We will work to develop a plan forward and toward your goals. Focusing on your well-being and small positive changes. No matter what you are carrying, we can lighten your load together. You are not alone. Let's wade through the heaviness and bring you to a place of peace and calm. You can do this.
(870) 259-4676 View (870) 259-4676
Photo of TLC Incorporated Counseling and Trauma Care, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hempstead County, AR
TLC Incorporated Counseling and Trauma Care
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Hello! I am a licensed certified social worker specializing in trauma therapy. In order to help my clients heal, EMDR therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy are among the types of treatment used. I often work with clients who are stuck. They are are not making progress alone or with other treatments. We will work together to identify the needs, goals, and what gets in the way of progress. We pay attention to healing the wounds that have occurred at whatever time in life. Our newest services offered are through our Horse Powered Reading program. We are assisting 1st - 3rd graders improve reading while assisted with horses!
Hello! I am a licensed certified social worker specializing in trauma therapy. In order to help my clients heal, EMDR therapy and Equine Assisted Psychotherapy are among the types of treatment used. I often work with clients who are stuck. They are are not making progress alone or with other treatments. We will work together to identify the needs, goals, and what gets in the way of progress. We pay attention to healing the wounds that have occurred at whatever time in life. Our newest services offered are through our Horse Powered Reading program. We are assisting 1st - 3rd graders improve reading while assisted with horses!
(501) 550-9057 View (501) 550-9057
Photo of Dr. Jj LaMaster, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hempstead County, AR
Dr. Jj LaMaster
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, DCC, EMDR-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72019
I am trained in EMDR and use a client centered approach to therapy.
Do you find it difficult to handle your anxiety or depression? You've taken the first step towards healing, let me guide you through the others in a safe and relaxing environment. Together, we will process what is holding you back and I will assist you in learning how to enjoy life again. We are a team in this journey. I offer technology assisted sessions for the times you can't make it into the office.
I am trained in EMDR and use a client centered approach to therapy.
Do you find it difficult to handle your anxiety or depression? You've taken the first step towards healing, let me guide you through the others in a safe and relaxing environment. Together, we will process what is holding you back and I will assist you in learning how to enjoy life again. We are a team in this journey. I offer technology assisted sessions for the times you can't make it into the office.
(501) 697-4993 View (501) 697-4993
Photo of Meridiem Psychological Services, Inc. in Hempstead County, AR
Meridiem Psychological Services, Inc.
MA, LPE-I, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Benton, AR 72015
I have been working in the mental health field since 2002. I have been nationally certified since 2004. I am EMDR certified, EMDRIA approved Consultant, and EMDR Trainer. I use a trauma-focused approach to treatment because it is a very holistic approach to care (body, mind, and emotional reactions to stress). I prefer to work with adolescents and adults in therapy services. I also offer consultation services for therapists and other mental health providers. I received my credential to be an EMDR trainier on 9/12/2023 and offer both online and in-person trainings.
I have been working in the mental health field since 2002. I have been nationally certified since 2004. I am EMDR certified, EMDRIA approved Consultant, and EMDR Trainer. I use a trauma-focused approach to treatment because it is a very holistic approach to care (body, mind, and emotional reactions to stress). I prefer to work with adolescents and adults in therapy services. I also offer consultation services for therapists and other mental health providers. I received my credential to be an EMDR trainier on 9/12/2023 and offer both online and in-person trainings.
(501) 232-2717 View (501) 232-2717
Photo of Crystal Evans, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hempstead County, AR
Crystal Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Texarkana, AR 71854
EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps clients of all ages.
Are you struggling in life or has life become more difficult? I will work along side of you to embrace your own journey. My therapy style is to meet the need of the client. If you are suffering from anxiety, depression, or the ups and downs life tends to throw. I will support you, encourage you, empower you and be a listening ear.
EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps clients of all ages.
Are you struggling in life or has life become more difficult? I will work along side of you to embrace your own journey. My therapy style is to meet the need of the client. If you are suffering from anxiety, depression, or the ups and downs life tends to throw. I will support you, encourage you, empower you and be a listening ear.
(870) 617-1517 View (870) 617-1517
Photo of Michelle Merriott, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hempstead County, AR
Michelle Merriott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I utilize EMDR to aid individuals in processing traumas, anxieties and negative beliefs.
At Merriott Counseling Services, PLLC., my hope is for you to feel listened to/validated and, free to share your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive atmosphere. I aspire to help you realize you are not alone and change is possible. I genuinely care for my clients and desire to aid them in finding and developing the tools to help them thrive in life. I know it is hard to reach out for help, however it will be one of the best decisions you have ever made for yourself. At least try 1 session to begin the journey in giving yourself back to you and your loved ones.
I utilize EMDR to aid individuals in processing traumas, anxieties and negative beliefs.
At Merriott Counseling Services, PLLC., my hope is for you to feel listened to/validated and, free to share your thoughts and feelings in a safe and supportive atmosphere. I aspire to help you realize you are not alone and change is possible. I genuinely care for my clients and desire to aid them in finding and developing the tools to help them thrive in life. I know it is hard to reach out for help, however it will be one of the best decisions you have ever made for yourself. At least try 1 session to begin the journey in giving yourself back to you and your loved ones.
(501) 391-1374 View (501) 391-1374
Photo of Hope of Heartland, Inc, Counselor in Hempstead County, AR
Hope of Heartland, Inc
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72209  (Online Only)
I am trained in Adoption Competency, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Advanced TF-CBT working with children with problematic sexual behaviors, Grief, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, EMDR, Aggression Replacement Therapy, & Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Substance Abuse.
If you are struggling with depression, trauma, anxiety, or substance abuse you have come to the right place. Working through these issues on your own can feel daunting and overwhelming. It's ok, I can help you create a roadmap for your healing. I know you are probably tired of trying to do the hard work on your own. That is why therapy is essential and for many, it's a fast track to healing and restoration. As a seasoned professional with over 20 years of helping people heal, I am committed to your process.
I am trained in Adoption Competency, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Advanced TF-CBT working with children with problematic sexual behaviors, Grief, Child-Parent Psychotherapy, EMDR, Aggression Replacement Therapy, & Cognitive Behavior Therapy for Substance Abuse.
If you are struggling with depression, trauma, anxiety, or substance abuse you have come to the right place. Working through these issues on your own can feel daunting and overwhelming. It's ok, I can help you create a roadmap for your healing. I know you are probably tired of trying to do the hard work on your own. That is why therapy is essential and for many, it's a fast track to healing and restoration. As a seasoned professional with over 20 years of helping people heal, I am committed to your process.
(863) 204-2670 View (863) 204-2670
Photo of Kelli Mayall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hempstead County, AR
Kelli Mayall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Texarkana, AR 71854
I am trained in providing EMDR therapy as well.
Are you ready to embark on a journey towards healing, growth, and empowerment? I'm here to support you every step of the way. I'm a licensed professional counselor dedicated to helping individuals heal from their traumas, navigate life's challenges, and cultivate positive change.
I am trained in providing EMDR therapy as well.
Are you ready to embark on a journey towards healing, growth, and empowerment? I'm here to support you every step of the way. I'm a licensed professional counselor dedicated to helping individuals heal from their traumas, navigate life's challenges, and cultivate positive change.
(870) 705-3785 View (870) 705-3785
Photo of Jessica Henry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hempstead County, AR
Jessica Henry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72211
I am trained in EMDR and EFT both evidence-based treatment modalities.
The need for connection and belonging are at the core of who we are as humans yet most suffering occurs in isolation. The gift of the therapeutic relationship is that it is built during times of distress or when everyday life feels overwhelming. It is within the vulnerability of the therapeutic relationship that I help people find their strength, embrace their imperfections, find connection and fully align with self.
I am trained in EMDR and EFT both evidence-based treatment modalities.
The need for connection and belonging are at the core of who we are as humans yet most suffering occurs in isolation. The gift of the therapeutic relationship is that it is built during times of distress or when everyday life feels overwhelming. It is within the vulnerability of the therapeutic relationship that I help people find their strength, embrace their imperfections, find connection and fully align with self.
(501) 290-4887 View (501) 290-4887
Photo of Teresa Messina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hempstead County, AR
Teresa Messina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
I utilize evidence-based modalities that include Brainspotting, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
You have taken the first step on your mental health journey. That is something to be proud of. I hope you will allow me to assist you in obtaining the skills necessary to manage the challenges that daily life and past events can cause. I have over 22 years of experience helping others gain skills to manage the hardships of life. My mission is to facilitate personal growth through healing, to assist in finding balance, setting and meeting goals, and exploring ways to cope. I work collaboratively with clients to help them obtain the empowerment, skills, and techniques required to gain better control over how they manage their lives.
I utilize evidence-based modalities that include Brainspotting, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
You have taken the first step on your mental health journey. That is something to be proud of. I hope you will allow me to assist you in obtaining the skills necessary to manage the challenges that daily life and past events can cause. I have over 22 years of experience helping others gain skills to manage the hardships of life. My mission is to facilitate personal growth through healing, to assist in finding balance, setting and meeting goals, and exploring ways to cope. I work collaboratively with clients to help them obtain the empowerment, skills, and techniques required to gain better control over how they manage their lives.
(501) 441-3672 View (501) 441-3672
Photo of Paula Shannon, Counselor in Hempstead County, AR
Paula Shannon
Counselor, NCC, LPC, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72223
I am dual licensed in Arkansas & Nevada (virtual only for NV clients), as well as Certified EMDR Therapist, Targeting Trauma & PTSD.
Successful people want to learn, grow, and be their best, but sometimes life stuff gets in the way. My focus is to help you to create additional choices and new patterns of behavior with a heavy focus on purpose, hope, and developing a deep sense of self. If you are one of these people, whether you need support with major life events or just day to day issues, give me a call or send me an email.
I am dual licensed in Arkansas & Nevada (virtual only for NV clients), as well as Certified EMDR Therapist, Targeting Trauma & PTSD.
Successful people want to learn, grow, and be their best, but sometimes life stuff gets in the way. My focus is to help you to create additional choices and new patterns of behavior with a heavy focus on purpose, hope, and developing a deep sense of self. If you are one of these people, whether you need support with major life events or just day to day issues, give me a call or send me an email.
(501) 238-8358 View (501) 238-8358
Photo of Stephanie Hamilton, Counselor in Hempstead County, AR
Stephanie Hamilton
Counselor, LPC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
We all have times that events take a toll on us mentally and emotionally. In some aspect we may try to push them down or avoid the existence of the issue. Maybe we have associations of weakness or feelings of inadequacy if we acknowledge those feelings or issues. I’m an LPC, CFRC with 12 years previous experience as an EMT and Volunteer Firefighter. I am EMDR level 1 & 2 trained for trauma and PTSD therapy. Beyond responder therapy, I have experience with sexual abuse, codependency work, healing the inner child, and promoting your own self-worth.
We all have times that events take a toll on us mentally and emotionally. In some aspect we may try to push them down or avoid the existence of the issue. Maybe we have associations of weakness or feelings of inadequacy if we acknowledge those feelings or issues. I’m an LPC, CFRC with 12 years previous experience as an EMT and Volunteer Firefighter. I am EMDR level 1 & 2 trained for trauma and PTSD therapy. Beyond responder therapy, I have experience with sexual abuse, codependency work, healing the inner child, and promoting your own self-worth.
(501) 238-6856 View (501) 238-6856
Photo of Madison Slinkard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hempstead County, AR
Madison Slinkard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72211
I am a trauma and attachment therapist working with children, adolescents, adults, and families utilizing: EMDR, Sandplay, TF-CBT, Attachment, Regulation, and Competency (ARC), Yoga, Family Therapy, Brainspotting, and Theraplay (in process).
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Do you lack feelings of safety in your life? Maybe you feel like nobody understands your pain or fear. Having a lack of trust in yourself, others, or the world can make reaching out for help immensely difficult. If you are reading this, you have taken a brave first step. Although therapy may seem intimidating, my approach focuses on your felt safety; between us, and within yourself. I have many therapeutic techniques to help you, but from my experience, the therapeutic relationship is the most powerful tool towards healing.
I am a trauma and attachment therapist working with children, adolescents, adults, and families utilizing: EMDR, Sandplay, TF-CBT, Attachment, Regulation, and Competency (ARC), Yoga, Family Therapy, Brainspotting, and Theraplay (in process).
Do you feel disconnected from yourself and others? Do you lack feelings of safety in your life? Maybe you feel like nobody understands your pain or fear. Having a lack of trust in yourself, others, or the world can make reaching out for help immensely difficult. If you are reading this, you have taken a brave first step. Although therapy may seem intimidating, my approach focuses on your felt safety; between us, and within yourself. I have many therapeutic techniques to help you, but from my experience, the therapeutic relationship is the most powerful tool towards healing.
(501) 509-9074 View (501) 509-9074
Photo of Kelsey Fink, Licensed Professional Counselor in Hempstead County, AR
Kelsey Fink
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, EMDR-C, BSP
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72211
Waitlist for new clients
I work with individuals and families, utilizing EMDR, Brainspotting, body-based techniques, mindfulness, sandtray therapy, play therapy, and relationship based approaches to help you find successful ways to address challenges in your day to day life, and understand the role the mind/body connection plays in experiencing, managing and expressing emotions.
I believe that everyone has the ability to heal from trauma, and experience the beauty of personal growth from difficult life experiences. When we experience trauma and/or chronic stress, we often become disconnected from ourselves, from others, and from the world around us. Our work together can help you reconnect to yourself, improve interpersonal relationships and learn to be present in the moment. My goal is to help you become more resilient, so that you feel comfortable enough to process your past, and confident enough to navigate difficult life events.
I work with individuals and families, utilizing EMDR, Brainspotting, body-based techniques, mindfulness, sandtray therapy, play therapy, and relationship based approaches to help you find successful ways to address challenges in your day to day life, and understand the role the mind/body connection plays in experiencing, managing and expressing emotions.
I believe that everyone has the ability to heal from trauma, and experience the beauty of personal growth from difficult life experiences. When we experience trauma and/or chronic stress, we often become disconnected from ourselves, from others, and from the world around us. Our work together can help you reconnect to yourself, improve interpersonal relationships and learn to be present in the moment. My goal is to help you become more resilient, so that you feel comfortable enough to process your past, and confident enough to navigate difficult life events.
(501) 200-4601 View (501) 200-4601
Photo of Life Trek, LLC, Psychologist in Hempstead County, AR
Life Trek, LLC
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Hot Springs, AR 71901
Brainspotting and EMDR are a few of the evidence based approaches that can help you reach your goals! Life Trek is currently has a waitlist for new clients.
Are you ready for change and improvements in your life? Reach for your goals, live life without symptoms that interfere in achieving your dreams! Overcome trauma symptoms that hurt focus, relationships, and ability to live each day to its fullest. Beat anxiety by learning healthier ways to combat the difficulties that are thrown at you. We'll walk with you step by step! No need to travel alone!
Brainspotting and EMDR are a few of the evidence based approaches that can help you reach your goals! Life Trek is currently has a waitlist for new clients.
Are you ready for change and improvements in your life? Reach for your goals, live life without symptoms that interfere in achieving your dreams! Overcome trauma symptoms that hurt focus, relationships, and ability to live each day to its fullest. Beat anxiety by learning healthier ways to combat the difficulties that are thrown at you. We'll walk with you step by step! No need to travel alone!
(501) 424-4984 View (501) 424-4984
Photo of Amy Freer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hempstead County, AR
Amy Freer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Little Rock, AR 72211
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma treatment. I am trained and experienced in EMDR, IFS, and Ego State Protocol; powerful therapeutic tools for addressing distressing traits and experiences while instilling positive ones. I am passionate about helping you heal the wounded parts of you that may be keeping you from living your best life.
I specialize in trauma treatment. I am trained and experienced in EMDR, IFS, and Ego State Protocol; powerful therapeutic tools for addressing distressing traits and experiences while instilling positive ones. I am passionate about helping you heal the wounded parts of you that may be keeping you from living your best life.
(501) 200-9392 View (501) 200-9392
Photo of Melinda Wright, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Hempstead County, AR
Melinda Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pearcy, AR 71964
I am trained in Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and I have received training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy to address traumatic experiences.
Best wishes on your path to seeking a stronger sense of your mental health. My hope is to offer a safe haven for you to address your concerns. I will provide evidenced based practices to each client during these brave moments. I have experience in addressing codependency, depression, anxiety, PTSD, adjustments, generational trauma, relationship issues, and grief.
I am trained in Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) and I have received training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral therapy to address traumatic experiences.
Best wishes on your path to seeking a stronger sense of your mental health. My hope is to offer a safe haven for you to address your concerns. I will provide evidenced based practices to each client during these brave moments. I have experience in addressing codependency, depression, anxiety, PTSD, adjustments, generational trauma, relationship issues, and grief.
(501) 300-2746 View (501) 300-2746

See more therapy options for Hempstead County

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.