EMDR Therapists in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA

Photo of Heather I Kotler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Heather I Kotler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
To ensure every patient gets the treatment he or she needs, I often incorporate specialized techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and EMDR, a powerful technique for patients that have suffered a traumatic event.
For people who have faced extraordinary difficulties, navigating the ups and and downs of everyday life can be a challenge. As a therapist who specializes in working with people dealing with addiction or anxiety or those who suffered a personal trauma, my goal is to help men, women, and teens who struggle with those issues learn the skills to not just get by, but to grow and thrive.
To ensure every patient gets the treatment he or she needs, I often incorporate specialized techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and EMDR, a powerful technique for patients that have suffered a traumatic event.
For people who have faced extraordinary difficulties, navigating the ups and and downs of everyday life can be a challenge. As a therapist who specializes in working with people dealing with addiction or anxiety or those who suffered a personal trauma, my goal is to help men, women, and teens who struggle with those issues learn the skills to not just get by, but to grow and thrive.
(404) 334-7941 View (404) 334-7941
Photo of Stephanie L. Ezust, Psychologist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Stephanie L. Ezust
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
Waitlist for new clients
When appropriate I will use techniques such as Gestalt therapy, psychomotor, DBT, meditation practice, EMDR, and energy work.
With more than 40 years of experience, I believe that psychotherapy can provide a "safe container," a non-judgmental place, in which clients can confront their issues in complete confidentiality without fear of rejection. There is no blueprint for this process; together we create the path leading to each client's inner wisdom and healing.
When appropriate I will use techniques such as Gestalt therapy, psychomotor, DBT, meditation practice, EMDR, and energy work.
With more than 40 years of experience, I believe that psychotherapy can provide a "safe container," a non-judgmental place, in which clients can confront their issues in complete confidentiality without fear of rejection. There is no blueprint for this process; together we create the path leading to each client's inner wisdom and healing.
(404) 369-1606 View (404) 369-1606
Photo of Emily Green, Licensed Professional Counselor in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Emily Green
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, EMDR/trauma therapy, and I am a Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor, allowing me to work with children, adults, couples, and families, including those considering or undergoing separation or divorce.
I believe that we are all trying our best and that we are the experts on ourselves and our families. However sometimes life brings us more than we know how to handle, and we may see symptoms of anxiety, PTSD, and unhealthy or disruptive behavior in ourselves, our relationships, and our children. This can leave us feeling frustrated, hopeless, and isolated as individuals, couples, and parents. Thankfully, therapy can help us and our children move beyond our pain, fear, and destructive behavior, and toward a greater sense of peace, happiness, and belonging.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, EMDR/trauma therapy, and I am a Registered Play Therapist & Supervisor, allowing me to work with children, adults, couples, and families, including those considering or undergoing separation or divorce.
I believe that we are all trying our best and that we are the experts on ourselves and our families. However sometimes life brings us more than we know how to handle, and we may see symptoms of anxiety, PTSD, and unhealthy or disruptive behavior in ourselves, our relationships, and our children. This can leave us feeling frustrated, hopeless, and isolated as individuals, couples, and parents. Thankfully, therapy can help us and our children move beyond our pain, fear, and destructive behavior, and toward a greater sense of peace, happiness, and belonging.
(678) 374-2934 View (678) 374-2934
Photo of Frances L Somerville, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Frances L Somerville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
Our real journey in this life is interior; it is a matter of growth, deepening, and of an ever greater surrender to the creative action of love and grace in our hearts. Thomas Merton wrote this a half-century ago, but it is still appropriate today. In our practice, we provide a safe, professional and holistic atmosphere, where people are supported in making profound changes and choices in their lives. I work collaboratively with both individuals and couples, using a plethora of techniques, including the Enneagram, dreams, myth, gestalt and EMDR.
Our real journey in this life is interior; it is a matter of growth, deepening, and of an ever greater surrender to the creative action of love and grace in our hearts. Thomas Merton wrote this a half-century ago, but it is still appropriate today. In our practice, we provide a safe, professional and holistic atmosphere, where people are supported in making profound changes and choices in their lives. I work collaboratively with both individuals and couples, using a plethora of techniques, including the Enneagram, dreams, myth, gestalt and EMDR.
(770) 450-5944 View (770) 450-5944
Photo of Maija Salins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Maija Salins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
As a therapist trained in EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, I believe that our bodies and minds are resilient and know how to heal with the right support.
As a highly sensitive person who cares about others and the world, you experience more stress, pain, and overwhelm than most. You may be feeling burned out, having trouble setting boundaries with others, or judging yourself for not being able to let go of past hurts. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to start prioritizing your own needs. You’re ready to take up space as your authentic self. Most of all, you’re ready to feel more confident and capable, with the knowledge that your sensitivity might be one of your biggest strengths.
As a therapist trained in EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, I believe that our bodies and minds are resilient and know how to heal with the right support.
As a highly sensitive person who cares about others and the world, you experience more stress, pain, and overwhelm than most. You may be feeling burned out, having trouble setting boundaries with others, or judging yourself for not being able to let go of past hurts. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to start prioritizing your own needs. You’re ready to take up space as your authentic self. Most of all, you’re ready to feel more confident and capable, with the knowledge that your sensitivity might be one of your biggest strengths.
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Photo of Stephanie Soll, Pre-Licensed Professional in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Stephanie Soll
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC, APC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
Some of the various interventions and tools I use to help my clients include: EMDR, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Integrative & Trauma Focused.
Are you feeling stuck in your head and struggle to be present in your day to day experiences? Living with constant worry and stress can negatively impact our quality of life. While it is understandable that negative thoughts and feelings might creep up, I want you to know there are multiple paths to fostering peace! With a little self-exploration, self-compassion and therapeutic work, it is possible for you to learn how to overcome negative experiences that impact your life and increase your overall fulfillment. I strive to provide an environment where my clients can find peace and freedom from whatever challenges they may face.
Some of the various interventions and tools I use to help my clients include: EMDR, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Exposure & Response Prevention, Integrative & Trauma Focused.
Are you feeling stuck in your head and struggle to be present in your day to day experiences? Living with constant worry and stress can negatively impact our quality of life. While it is understandable that negative thoughts and feelings might creep up, I want you to know there are multiple paths to fostering peace! With a little self-exploration, self-compassion and therapeutic work, it is possible for you to learn how to overcome negative experiences that impact your life and increase your overall fulfillment. I strive to provide an environment where my clients can find peace and freedom from whatever challenges they may face.
(404) 738-9850 View (404) 738-9850
Photo of Twyla O'Callaghan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Twyla O'Callaghan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
I am a trained EMDR therapist and in Flash Therapy.
Do you desire a better life not controlled by negative feelings, conflicting thoughts, and behaviors that puzzle you? If changing life patterns are not working on your own, we can work together to find therapeutic techniques that are best suited for your personal challenges. Creating a strong and effective working relationship is a priority in my practice.
I am a trained EMDR therapist and in Flash Therapy.
Do you desire a better life not controlled by negative feelings, conflicting thoughts, and behaviors that puzzle you? If changing life patterns are not working on your own, we can work together to find therapeutic techniques that are best suited for your personal challenges. Creating a strong and effective working relationship is a priority in my practice.
(404) 897-6427 View (404) 897-6427
Photo of Trey Jackson, Counselor in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Trey Jackson
Counselor, APC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
I incorporate tools from EMDR, polyvagal theory, mindfulness, addiction & relapse prevention, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and parts work as deemed helpful for individual clients.
I am a holistic practitioner who works with adults and teens from a mind-body-spirit framework. I have a passion for helping clients uncover and integrate trauma stored in the body, through EMDR and polyvagal therapeutic approaches. I am welcoming to clients navigating integration, spiritual awakenings, exploring shadow work and processing transpersonal issues around consciousness.
I incorporate tools from EMDR, polyvagal theory, mindfulness, addiction & relapse prevention, Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and parts work as deemed helpful for individual clients.
I am a holistic practitioner who works with adults and teens from a mind-body-spirit framework. I have a passion for helping clients uncover and integrate trauma stored in the body, through EMDR and polyvagal therapeutic approaches. I am welcoming to clients navigating integration, spiritual awakenings, exploring shadow work and processing transpersonal issues around consciousness.
(470) 649-3450 View (470) 649-3450
Photo of Natasha Vayner, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Natasha Vayner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
I am trained in EMDR, which helps with processing trauma/traumatic memories.
Are you needing some guidance with the teens in your life? Are there life transitions you're going through that are keeping you up at night? Does your mind seem to have "a mind of its own"? I'd love to help you gain clarity, control, skills and anything else that is standing between you and a more peaceful and joyful life.
I am trained in EMDR, which helps with processing trauma/traumatic memories.
Are you needing some guidance with the teens in your life? Are there life transitions you're going through that are keeping you up at night? Does your mind seem to have "a mind of its own"? I'd love to help you gain clarity, control, skills and anything else that is standing between you and a more peaceful and joyful life.
(470) 524-3051 View (470) 524-3051
Photo of Maggie Huntoon, Master Social Worker in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Maggie Huntoon
Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
I am nationally certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and trained in Trauma Play and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
When life challenges us, we can all benefit from working it through with someone who cares. If you or your child have experienced a traumatic or scary event, had recent changes in your life, or are struggling with big feelings and behaviors, the next steps can be overwhelming. I empower you to heal through learning and collaboration; processing those events and feelings that once felt too big.
I am nationally certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and trained in Trauma Play and in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
When life challenges us, we can all benefit from working it through with someone who cares. If you or your child have experienced a traumatic or scary event, had recent changes in your life, or are struggling with big feelings and behaviors, the next steps can be overwhelming. I empower you to heal through learning and collaboration; processing those events and feelings that once felt too big.
(229) 441-2448 View (229) 441-2448
Photo of Mikayla Ruggieri, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Mikayla Ruggieri
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
Hey there! I’m glad you’re here. As your therapist, my ultimate goal is to empower you as the author of your own story. Together, we'll cultivate self-compassion, tap into your innate capacity for growth, and create a life that resonates with your deepest values and aspirations. I'm dedicated to tailoring our work to your unique needs by seamlessly integrating various therapeutic modalities. A key part of my approach involves blending two transformative methods: Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hey there! I’m glad you’re here. As your therapist, my ultimate goal is to empower you as the author of your own story. Together, we'll cultivate self-compassion, tap into your innate capacity for growth, and create a life that resonates with your deepest values and aspirations. I'm dedicated to tailoring our work to your unique needs by seamlessly integrating various therapeutic modalities. A key part of my approach involves blending two transformative methods: Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(470) 570-2932 View (470) 570-2932
Photo of Alyssa Morrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Alyssa Morrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
My theoretical orientations include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT); dialectical behavioral influenced therapy (DBT) with a particular focus on mindfulness; eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR); psychodynamic; and solution-focused.
I am licensed in Georgia & Utah and have over ten years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My primary focuses include grief and loss, life stage changes, depression/anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma & abuse. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and have experience with diversity in regards to gender, race, culture, religion, and sexual orientation. I find that people who feel that I am a good match for them have a desire to begin to strengthen their internal sense of self and strength and are eager to begin their journey to a higher level of self-actualization.
My theoretical orientations include cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT); dialectical behavioral influenced therapy (DBT) with a particular focus on mindfulness; eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR); psychodynamic; and solution-focused.
I am licensed in Georgia & Utah and have over ten years of experience working with children, adults, and families. My primary focuses include grief and loss, life stage changes, depression/anxiety, relationship issues, and trauma & abuse. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and have experience with diversity in regards to gender, race, culture, religion, and sexual orientation. I find that people who feel that I am a good match for them have a desire to begin to strengthen their internal sense of self and strength and are eager to begin their journey to a higher level of self-actualization.
(470) 594-2654 View (470) 594-2654
Photo of David Terraso, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
David Terraso
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
Trained in EMDR, I can help you heal from trauma or a lifetime of unwanted thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Are you seeking to improve your relationships with your significant other, your family, or yourself? Do you yearn for a life where you have control over your own emotions and reactions, can make better decisions, and handle self-defeating behaviors? Whether you're seeking help for yourself, as a couple, or for your family, let's work together to calm and release your body, mind, and spirit from the past, so you can live a full and bountiful life today.
Trained in EMDR, I can help you heal from trauma or a lifetime of unwanted thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
Are you seeking to improve your relationships with your significant other, your family, or yourself? Do you yearn for a life where you have control over your own emotions and reactions, can make better decisions, and handle self-defeating behaviors? Whether you're seeking help for yourself, as a couple, or for your family, let's work together to calm and release your body, mind, and spirit from the past, so you can live a full and bountiful life today.
(404) 491-7751 x5 View (404) 491-7751 x5
Photo of Elizabeth Bowen, Counselor in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Elizabeth Bowen
Counselor, APC, MAMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
I operate from a strength-based approach, utilizing both Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR (trauma specialization).
My goal is to instill hope, foster healing, and facilitate growth with each individual and couple that I work with. As a therapist, I have observed that we will all experience pain and suffering. I have also come to the conclusion that when we experience adverse events, we cope in whatever way protects us from feeling more pain. As your therapist, I will offer compassion and empathy as we explore the ‘why’ behind specific patterns and habits that keep you feeling stuck. We will also work towards gaining new coping skills and tools that will help you meet your specific goals.
I operate from a strength-based approach, utilizing both Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR (trauma specialization).
My goal is to instill hope, foster healing, and facilitate growth with each individual and couple that I work with. As a therapist, I have observed that we will all experience pain and suffering. I have also come to the conclusion that when we experience adverse events, we cope in whatever way protects us from feeling more pain. As your therapist, I will offer compassion and empathy as we explore the ‘why’ behind specific patterns and habits that keep you feeling stuck. We will also work towards gaining new coping skills and tools that will help you meet your specific goals.
(404) 905-3758 View (404) 905-3758
Photo of Kelly Pierce, Licensed Professional Counselor in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Kelly Pierce
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
With the help of EMDR, we can reduce the overwhelm & emptiness you feel by actually letting your brain and body heal themselves.
To all the perfectionists & people pleasers out there: No, life does not have to be this hard. Let me paint you a picture: You are overwhelmed by stress and anxiety, but you do everything you can to appear perfectly fine in front of other people. You feel really alone, but you’re afraid to burden others with your pain. You feel like you’re constantly running on empty, but you don’t know how to get back to feeling like yourself again. To make matters worse, that voice in your head won’t shut up about how you can't trust yourself and there must be something wrong with you. Does this sound like you?
With the help of EMDR, we can reduce the overwhelm & emptiness you feel by actually letting your brain and body heal themselves.
To all the perfectionists & people pleasers out there: No, life does not have to be this hard. Let me paint you a picture: You are overwhelmed by stress and anxiety, but you do everything you can to appear perfectly fine in front of other people. You feel really alone, but you’re afraid to burden others with your pain. You feel like you’re constantly running on empty, but you don’t know how to get back to feeling like yourself again. To make matters worse, that voice in your head won’t shut up about how you can't trust yourself and there must be something wrong with you. Does this sound like you?
(678) 673-3462 View (678) 673-3462
Photo of Michelle Hammond-Susten, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Michelle Hammond-Susten
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in the Atlanta area since 2006. I have a passion for helping people regain control over their lives after experiencing difficult events that have impacted how they see the world and themselves. My philosophy in therapy is that you are your own expert on your life and hold the key to making changes that you want. It is my role and privilege, as your therapist, to walk along side of you, providing support and assisting you with tools that you can carry with you on your journey.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, practicing in the Atlanta area since 2006. I have a passion for helping people regain control over their lives after experiencing difficult events that have impacted how they see the world and themselves. My philosophy in therapy is that you are your own expert on your life and hold the key to making changes that you want. It is my role and privilege, as your therapist, to walk along side of you, providing support and assisting you with tools that you can carry with you on your journey.
(678) 831-3171 View (678) 831-3171
Photo of Peachtree DBT in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Peachtree DBT
Verified Verified
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
We are Georgia's largest Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) practice with twelve Intensively Trained clinicians. Peachtree DBT provides individual and group DBT skills as well as other therapy, counseling and support services. We offer skills classes for all populations including middle school, high school, adult, and families. We address various needs including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, stress management and borderline personality behavior.
We are Georgia's largest Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) practice with twelve Intensively Trained clinicians. Peachtree DBT provides individual and group DBT skills as well as other therapy, counseling and support services. We offer skills classes for all populations including middle school, high school, adult, and families. We address various needs including, but not limited to, anxiety, depression, impulsivity, stress management and borderline personality behavior.
(404) 480-9901 View (404) 480-9901
Photo of Deva Joy Gouss, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Deva Joy Gouss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
I see therapy as a powerful commitment to one's own healing and personal evolution, in the context of a genuine relationship based on equality and respect. I work best with people who are ready and willing to dive in and learn new ways to be with themselves, no matter what circumstances they are dealing with (relationship problems, grief and loss, sexuality and identity issues, negative thinking, depression, anxiety, family responsibilities, health issues, midlife transitions, etc). Though deep listening is foundational, I take an active role in offering feedback and teaching you tools for shifting your inner and outer realties.
I see therapy as a powerful commitment to one's own healing and personal evolution, in the context of a genuine relationship based on equality and respect. I work best with people who are ready and willing to dive in and learn new ways to be with themselves, no matter what circumstances they are dealing with (relationship problems, grief and loss, sexuality and identity issues, negative thinking, depression, anxiety, family responsibilities, health issues, midlife transitions, etc). Though deep listening is foundational, I take an active role in offering feedback and teaching you tools for shifting your inner and outer realties.
(404) 566-7019 View (404) 566-7019
Photo of Matt Wagner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Matt Wagner
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
As a therapist with experience in substance abuse and addiction, I specialize in working with adults experiencing active addiction and early recovery from addiction, as well as family members and loved ones who are affected by someone's drinking or substance use. In addition to these areas, I also help people experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Men's Issues, Anger Management, and other Interpersonal Issues.
As a therapist with experience in substance abuse and addiction, I specialize in working with adults experiencing active addiction and early recovery from addiction, as well as family members and loved ones who are affected by someone's drinking or substance use. In addition to these areas, I also help people experiencing Anxiety, Depression, Grief, Men's Issues, Anger Management, and other Interpersonal Issues.
(770) 285-1720 View (770) 285-1720
Photo of Aspen Grove Counseling and Wellness, Marriage & Family Therapist in Candler Park, Atlanta, GA
Aspen Grove Counseling and Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Candler Park, Atlanta, GA 30307
You've been thinking about reaching out to a therapist for a while now, but it feels so hard to find someone who's a good fit. You've searched the internet looking for a therapist that you can relate with. Maybe you've even reached out to a therapist or two only to find that they are not taking new clients, or worse, they never even called you back. Finding help shouldn't be this hard! Whether you are looking for a couples therapist to help navigate a difficult time with your partner, or if you are coming to therapy on your own because you haven't been feeling like yourself and you could use a little extra help, we are here for you.
You've been thinking about reaching out to a therapist for a while now, but it feels so hard to find someone who's a good fit. You've searched the internet looking for a therapist that you can relate with. Maybe you've even reached out to a therapist or two only to find that they are not taking new clients, or worse, they never even called you back. Finding help shouldn't be this hard! Whether you are looking for a couples therapist to help navigate a difficult time with your partner, or if you are coming to therapy on your own because you haven't been feeling like yourself and you could use a little extra help, we are here for you.
(770) 464-5240 View (770) 464-5240

See more therapy options for Candler Park, Atlanta

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.