EMDR Therapists in Benton, IL

Photo of Evonne Stephenson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Benton, IL
Evonne Stephenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Benton, IL 62812
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
(618) 984-6872 View (618) 984-6872
Photo of Caleb Fishback, Pre-Licensed Professional in Benton, IL
Caleb Fishback
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Benton, IL 62812
Rome wasn't built in a day" is often a quote I attach to therapy. Therapy is building a vision for yourself that you're happy with that will keep you going from day to day. Life is often seen as half empty or half full and it's my job to help you see that life has all sorts of unexpected positives. Throughout therapy some things might be considered difficult or challenging, but as your therapist it's my goal to make sure that we come out the other end better than the session prior.
Rome wasn't built in a day" is often a quote I attach to therapy. Therapy is building a vision for yourself that you're happy with that will keep you going from day to day. Life is often seen as half empty or half full and it's my job to help you see that life has all sorts of unexpected positives. Throughout therapy some things might be considered difficult or challenging, but as your therapist it's my goal to make sure that we come out the other end better than the session prior.
(618) 486-1318 View (618) 486-1318
Photo of Kristi Weaver, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Benton, IL
Kristi Weaver
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Benton, IL 62812
As a person-centered therapist with over fifteen years of experience in working with clients of all ages, I will meet you where you are at mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I will help you embark on a journey to greater peace, happiness, and self-satisfaction. Whether you're having difficulty coping with life's many stressors, are feeling down, lacking motivation, or struggling to define and set meaningful goals for your life, I'm here to provide you with empathic support and guidance as you face life's many challenges.
As a person-centered therapist with over fifteen years of experience in working with clients of all ages, I will meet you where you are at mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I will help you embark on a journey to greater peace, happiness, and self-satisfaction. Whether you're having difficulty coping with life's many stressors, are feeling down, lacking motivation, or struggling to define and set meaningful goals for your life, I'm here to provide you with empathic support and guidance as you face life's many challenges.
(618) 740-3886 View (618) 740-3886
Photo of Aspire Integrated Health PLLC, Counselor in Benton, IL
Aspire Integrated Health PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Benton, IL 62812
We currently have openings. Do you want to conquer your biggest challenges, achieve your wellness goals, and develop effective strategies to improve the way you manage your emotions and your relationships? Improving your mental health means that you will have a happier and more fulfilling life. It means that you will have better overall health and a more positive outlook on life. Our professional counselors can help you improve your life in a number of ways including developing new skills, processing your emotions in a safe and nonjudgmental setting with a trained professional, as well as setting and achieving your personal goals.
We currently have openings. Do you want to conquer your biggest challenges, achieve your wellness goals, and develop effective strategies to improve the way you manage your emotions and your relationships? Improving your mental health means that you will have a happier and more fulfilling life. It means that you will have better overall health and a more positive outlook on life. Our professional counselors can help you improve your life in a number of ways including developing new skills, processing your emotions in a safe and nonjudgmental setting with a trained professional, as well as setting and achieving your personal goals.
(618) 634-7753 View (618) 634-7753
Photo of Michelle Venegoni-Vigil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton, IL
Michelle Venegoni-Vigil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Benton, IL 62812
Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.
Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.
(423) 208-9095 View (423) 208-9095
Photo of Dr. Jeffrey Brower in Benton, IL
Dr. Jeffrey Brower
MD
Verified Verified
Benton, IL 62812
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
Do you suffer from Depression or have Suicidal Thoughts? TMS provides true treatment with a 75% success rate in treatment with 50% of patients experiencing a full remission of symptoms for patients who struggle with depression and OCD. This includes those who have tried multiple medications and struggled with side effects or have not received relief. TMS is not painful or disruptive, does not cause systemic side effects, and does not require hospitalization or anesthesia. Results are often noticed by family and friends within a week. Patient often report results as early as 3 weeks into treatment.
(618) 681-4883 View (618) 681-4883
Photo of Austin Fishback, Pre-Licensed Professional in Benton, IL
Austin Fishback
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSE
Verified Verified
Benton, IL 62812
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, not necessary or believing that they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My only goal as a therapist is to help you achieve your goals and to see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life.
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, not necessary or believing that they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My only goal as a therapist is to help you achieve your goals and to see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life.
(618) 212-8415 View (618) 212-8415

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Evonne Stephenson, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Benton, IL
Evonne Stephenson
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
West Frankfort, IL 62896
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
Some of these techniques or treatment methods include: art therapy, sand tray therapy, neuro/biofeedback, EMDR, animal assisted therapy, family counseling, equine therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, herbal therapy, and play therapy.
Often times life can get tough. It can affect you, your marriage/relationship, your family, your children, your ability to parent, your self-worth, and more than anything, your ability to overcome any obstacles you are facing. I believe within each of us we have the strength to overcome the impossible. Out of pain comes something stronger, better, and the ability to thrive. I believe you already have the answers you seek and you contain the ability to change the worst circumstances. Sometimes our paths are hidden by everything weighing us down, which can make us feel overwhelmed. This can prevent us from seeing a way out...
(618) 740-3607 View (618) 740-3607
Photo of Austin Fishback, Pre-Licensed Professional in Benton, IL
Austin Fishback
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSE
Verified Verified
West Frankfort, IL 62896
I use trauma therapies including EMDR.
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, unnecessary, or believe they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My goal is to help you achieve your goals and see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life. Life is too short to let the traumas of the past keep you from the life you were meant to live!
I use trauma therapies including EMDR.
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, unnecessary, or believe they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My goal is to help you achieve your goals and see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life. Life is too short to let the traumas of the past keep you from the life you were meant to live!
(618) 243-0288 View (618) 243-0288
Photo of Michelle Venegoni-Vigil, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton, IL
Michelle Venegoni-Vigil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
West Frankfort, IL 62896
Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.
Do you feel overwhelmed with some of your life circumstances? Have you experienced trauma: a divorce, job-loss, traumatic birth, difficult diagnosis, or domestic violence? Are you depressed, struggling with low self-esteem, lacking motivation, or needing help transitioning through life? I believe that every individual has what it takes to succeed and live a fulfilling life. Sometimes, we have to go through the darkest storms to see the brightest rainbows. Without the right tools and a safe non-judgmental space, it may feel impossible to weather the storm on your own.
(618) 243-7410 x1 View (618) 243-7410 x1
Photo of Caleb Fishback, Pre-Licensed Professional in Benton, IL
Caleb Fishback
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
West Frankfort, IL 62896
Rome wasn't built in a day" is often a quote I attach to therapy. Therapy is building a vision for yourself that you're happy with that will keep you going from day to day. Life is often seen as half empty or half full and it's my job to help you see that life has all sorts of unexpected positives. Throughout therapy some things might be considered difficult or challenging, but as your therapist it's my goal to make sure that we come out the other end better than the session prior.
Rome wasn't built in a day" is often a quote I attach to therapy. Therapy is building a vision for yourself that you're happy with that will keep you going from day to day. Life is often seen as half empty or half full and it's my job to help you see that life has all sorts of unexpected positives. Throughout therapy some things might be considered difficult or challenging, but as your therapist it's my goal to make sure that we come out the other end better than the session prior.
(618) 427-1487 View (618) 427-1487
Photo of Kristi Weaver, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Benton, IL
Kristi Weaver
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
West Frankfort, IL 62896
As a person-centered therapist with over fifteen years of experience in working with clients of all ages, I will meet you where you are at mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I will help you embark on a journey to greater peace, happiness, and self-satisfaction. Whether you're having difficulty coping with life's many stressors, are feeling down, lacking motivation, or struggling to define and set meaningful goals for your life, I'm here to provide you with empathic support and guidance as you face life's many challenges.
As a person-centered therapist with over fifteen years of experience in working with clients of all ages, I will meet you where you are at mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. I will help you embark on a journey to greater peace, happiness, and self-satisfaction. Whether you're having difficulty coping with life's many stressors, are feeling down, lacking motivation, or struggling to define and set meaningful goals for your life, I'm here to provide you with empathic support and guidance as you face life's many challenges.
(618) 602-0969 View (618) 602-0969
Photo of Alaina Brown, Pre-Licensed Professional in Benton, IL
Alaina Brown
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSW
Verified Verified
Carbondale, IL 62901
‘A speaker raises a glass of water and asks the audience, “How heavy do you think this glass of water is?” His answer: “It depends on how long you hold it. It is the exact same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, we will not be able to carry on, the burden becoming increasingly heavier.”’ Occasionally, we have to set our burdens down so that we are able to recharge and prepare ourselves to continue moving forward. I am deeply committed to providing pathways to support and to create the best environment possible for clients.
‘A speaker raises a glass of water and asks the audience, “How heavy do you think this glass of water is?” His answer: “It depends on how long you hold it. It is the exact same weight, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes. If we carry our burdens all the time, sooner or later, we will not be able to carry on, the burden becoming increasingly heavier.”’ Occasionally, we have to set our burdens down so that we are able to recharge and prepare ourselves to continue moving forward. I am deeply committed to providing pathways to support and to create the best environment possible for clients.
(618) 353-0680 View (618) 353-0680
Photo of Nova M Griffith, Psychologist in Benton, IL
Nova M Griffith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
West Frankfort, IL 62896
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in EMDR.
My name is Nova M. Griffith and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who has a practice in Johnston City, Illinois. Taking care of my patients is my very top priority. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I have a background in psychological trauma work; having worked in a trauma-informed private practice in North Dakota from 2014 to 2017 and my own practice here for the past five years. Prior to that, I worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Marion, Illinois for 10 years specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety and addictions.
I am trained in EMDR.
My name is Nova M. Griffith and I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, who has a practice in Johnston City, Illinois. Taking care of my patients is my very top priority. Thank you for taking the time to get to know me. I have a background in psychological trauma work; having worked in a trauma-informed private practice in North Dakota from 2014 to 2017 and my own practice here for the past five years. Prior to that, I worked for the Department of Veterans Affairs in Marion, Illinois for 10 years specializing in PTSD, depression, anxiety and addictions.
(618) 248-4732 View (618) 248-4732

Online Therapists

Photo of April D Jones, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Benton, IL
April D Jones
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62221
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a therapy that can heal repressed complex trauma.
Are you feeling hopeless, tired, nervous, or struggling with uncertainty? Have your concerns fallen on deaf ears? I believe every client has the potential for change and that the first step in creating that change comes from within. I utilize brief solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing for individuals, couples, and families. It is my goal to help you resolve your problems or concerns by working together as a team to uncover the solutions that will bring clarity to your life.
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a therapy that can heal repressed complex trauma.
Are you feeling hopeless, tired, nervous, or struggling with uncertainty? Have your concerns fallen on deaf ears? I believe every client has the potential for change and that the first step in creating that change comes from within. I utilize brief solution-focused therapy, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing for individuals, couples, and families. It is my goal to help you resolve your problems or concerns by working together as a team to uncover the solutions that will bring clarity to your life.
(618) 368-4940 View (618) 368-4940
Photo of Christopher Vollmer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton, IL
Christopher Vollmer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSW-G, ACHP-SW, CDP, PEL
Verified Verified
Belleville, IL 62223
I am an EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist, an EMDRIA consultant-in-training, and a Certified Brainspotting Therapist.
Life can be difficult. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and to lose our sense of well-being and security. We look around each day and wonder why other people seem to have no trouble living life free from the sort of difficulties with which we struggle. We can begin to feel hopeless. But there is something inside each and every one of us, something beautiful and strong that cannot be touched by our trauma and recurring troubles, but can be obscured by them. Reconnecting with this part of ourselves in a safe, healing atmosphere can help us meet life’s challenges with a greater measure of peace with ourselves and the world.
I am an EMDRIA-certified EMDR therapist, an EMDRIA consultant-in-training, and a Certified Brainspotting Therapist.
Life can be difficult. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and to lose our sense of well-being and security. We look around each day and wonder why other people seem to have no trouble living life free from the sort of difficulties with which we struggle. We can begin to feel hopeless. But there is something inside each and every one of us, something beautiful and strong that cannot be touched by our trauma and recurring troubles, but can be obscured by them. Reconnecting with this part of ourselves in a safe, healing atmosphere can help us meet life’s challenges with a greater measure of peace with ourselves and the world.
(618) 230-4620 View (618) 230-4620
Photo of Kendra Walker, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton, IL
Kendra Walker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Swansea, IL 62226
Kendra is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Missouri. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work. Kendra is an EMDR trained therapist; she is also trained in CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy. She has experience working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and many more. Some of her other specialties include those dealing with suicidal ideations, grief and loss, and anger.
Kendra is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Illinois and Missouri. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree in social work. Kendra is an EMDR trained therapist; she is also trained in CBT and Solution-Focused Therapy. She has experience working with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, PTSD, and many more. Some of her other specialties include those dealing with suicidal ideations, grief and loss, and anger.
(618) 620-1766 View (618) 620-1766
Photo of Diana L Appleton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton, IL
Diana L Appleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
Shiloh, IL 62269
EMDR and DNMS therapy for treatment of PTSD from traumatic events and attachment issues.
I enjoy working with a variety of life stages( adolescent, adult, senior), with challenges that range from easily addressed life dilemmas to those who need longer term therapy for such issues as early abuse/neglect and PTSD. I believe that safety, trust, and time are necessary to help people to make significant movement toward wholeness, integration of self,and a more fulfilling life. Brain Body Research has proven that the body is adversely affected by Chronic/Severe Stress and Limiting Beliefs about self and one's life situation.
EMDR and DNMS therapy for treatment of PTSD from traumatic events and attachment issues.
I enjoy working with a variety of life stages( adolescent, adult, senior), with challenges that range from easily addressed life dilemmas to those who need longer term therapy for such issues as early abuse/neglect and PTSD. I believe that safety, trust, and time are necessary to help people to make significant movement toward wholeness, integration of self,and a more fulfilling life. Brain Body Research has proven that the body is adversely affected by Chronic/Severe Stress and Limiting Beliefs about self and one's life situation.
(618) 219-8271 View (618) 219-8271
Photo of Katrina Schoenfeld, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Benton, IL
Katrina Schoenfeld
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Effingham, IL 62401
Through EMDR therapy, we can work together to process and integrate challenging memories, paving the way for lasting positive change.
If you find yourself carrying the weight of traumatic experiences, grappling with persistent negative beliefs, or feeling a disconnection from yourself, I am here to offer support and guidance. Together, we can unravel the layers of your experiences, providing a path towards growth, self-acceptance, and a renewed sense of purpose. I believe in the inherent strength within each individual and the capacity for profound healing. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, client-centered, and grounded in the belief that everyone deserves a space to be heard, understood, and validated.
Through EMDR therapy, we can work together to process and integrate challenging memories, paving the way for lasting positive change.
If you find yourself carrying the weight of traumatic experiences, grappling with persistent negative beliefs, or feeling a disconnection from yourself, I am here to offer support and guidance. Together, we can unravel the layers of your experiences, providing a path towards growth, self-acceptance, and a renewed sense of purpose. I believe in the inherent strength within each individual and the capacity for profound healing. My therapeutic approach is collaborative, client-centered, and grounded in the belief that everyone deserves a space to be heard, understood, and validated.
(618) 617-6227 View (618) 617-6227
Photo of Austin Fishback, Pre-Licensed Professional in Benton, IL
Austin Fishback
Pre-Licensed Professional, MSE
Verified Verified
Vandalia, IL 62471
I use trauma therapies including EMDR.
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, unnecessary, or believe they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My goal is to help you achieve your goals and see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life. Life is too short to let the traumas of the past keep you from the life you were meant to live!
I use trauma therapies including EMDR.
You deserve to live a life that you love. There are many people who see therapy as something intrusive, unnecessary, or believe they will be judged. As a therapist, I believe that the connection built between the patient and therapist is the foundation that can lead you to the life that you want to live. My goal is to help you achieve your goals and see you become happier with the life you are currently living. Yes, sometimes therapy can bring up painful emotions, memories or events, but this pain can lead to growth and a better life. Life is too short to let the traumas of the past keep you from the life you were meant to live!
(618) 386-4230 View (618) 386-4230

See more therapy options for Benton

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.