Photo of Gabrielle Chappelle, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Gabrielle Chappelle
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64106
I tailor my approach to each individual client, using therapies like EMDR, IFS, and mindfulness-based CBT to stimulate the brain and body’s natural healing processes.
Hi there, I’m Gabrielle! Managing the demands of life while dealing with private pain and suffering can be really tough. There may be a sense of ‘Where do I even begin?’ I would love the opportunity to begin right where you are. You may find me appropriate if you are seeking emotional resilience, self-acceptance, or harmony in your relationships. My primary area of focus is with adults and couples impacted by life transitions, trauma, grief, or addiction.
I tailor my approach to each individual client, using therapies like EMDR, IFS, and mindfulness-based CBT to stimulate the brain and body’s natural healing processes.
Hi there, I’m Gabrielle! Managing the demands of life while dealing with private pain and suffering can be really tough. There may be a sense of ‘Where do I even begin?’ I would love the opportunity to begin right where you are. You may find me appropriate if you are seeking emotional resilience, self-acceptance, or harmony in your relationships. My primary area of focus is with adults and couples impacted by life transitions, trauma, grief, or addiction.
(816) 692-2933 View (816) 692-2933
Photo of LaTonya Allen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
LaTonya Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63132
My trainings include the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model through APSATS ( The Association for Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialists) and EMDR trauma therapy.
LaTonya Allen, lovingly referred to as "The Taboo Therapist," is a compassionate and committed practitioner originating from the southern United States, now rooted in the Midwest. Blending her genuine Southern charm with an assertive and straightforward style, she has built a renowned reputation as a therapist who fearlessly confronts delicate subjects and guides her clients through challenging life experiences.
My trainings include the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model through APSATS ( The Association for Partners of Sex Addicts Trauma Specialists) and EMDR trauma therapy.
LaTonya Allen, lovingly referred to as "The Taboo Therapist," is a compassionate and committed practitioner originating from the southern United States, now rooted in the Midwest. Blending her genuine Southern charm with an assertive and straightforward style, she has built a renowned reputation as a therapist who fearlessly confronts delicate subjects and guides her clients through challenging life experiences.
(314) 804-0491 View (314) 804-0491
Photo of Victoria L Weddle, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Victoria L Weddle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64151
Hi there, I'm Victoria! I am so happy you're considering taking the next step in your wellness journey. My approach to therapy is collaborative, trauma-informed and solution-focused. In a safe, open and supportive environment, we will identify and work towards your treatment goals. I am here to highlight your strengths, resiliency factors and celebrate your accomplishments. I'm also a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Certified, and Perinatal Mental Health Trained and EMDR Trained.
Hi there, I'm Victoria! I am so happy you're considering taking the next step in your wellness journey. My approach to therapy is collaborative, trauma-informed and solution-focused. In a safe, open and supportive environment, we will identify and work towards your treatment goals. I am here to highlight your strengths, resiliency factors and celebrate your accomplishments. I'm also a Registered Play Therapist (RPT), Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT) Certified, and Perinatal Mental Health Trained and EMDR Trained.
(816) 290-7675 View (816) 290-7675
Photo of Laura Adamgbo, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Laura Adamgbo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63117
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
Are you going through a major change in your life? Divorce, remarriage, blending a family, new job, new baby? Have you hit a road block in your career? Is anxiety keeping you from living an enriching lifestyle? Do you have unresolved trauma? Do you have a difficult to manage child? I can help you with these sudden roadblocks. During these transitional phases of life, we need a support system to help us gain strength, resilience and maintain a healthy living. I use EMDR, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) in working with adult clients and play therapy with my child clients. I act as an advocate, sounding board and gentle challenger.
(314) 925-1850 View (314) 925-1850
Photo of Katrina Stoddard, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Katrina Stoddard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LCMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64110
I am Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) in the states of Kansas and Missouri. In addition to being in private practice, I teach a graduate course at the University of Kansas as well as provide guidance and therapy skills to graduate level students at Friends University. I specialize in couples therapy and maternal mental health. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which I use with my in my trauma work.
I am Licensed Clinical Marriage and Family Therapist (LCMFT) in the states of Kansas and Missouri. In addition to being in private practice, I teach a graduate course at the University of Kansas as well as provide guidance and therapy skills to graduate level students at Friends University. I specialize in couples therapy and maternal mental health. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which I use with my in my trauma work.
(816) 656-3947 View (816) 656-3947
Photo of Alyssa Myatt, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Alyssa Myatt
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64153  (Online Only)
My motto in my practice is “we can do hard things.” My approach is a collaborative approach and I believe in meeting you where you want to be met. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Missouri and Kansas. I accept insurance to include Aetna, Optum, and UHC. I am EMDR Trained. I enjoy integrating various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered, and Mindfulness followed through by using strength-based and solutions-focused approaches. I have experience with clients presenting with challenges such as anxiety, depression, major life changing events, trauma, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ issues.
My motto in my practice is “we can do hard things.” My approach is a collaborative approach and I believe in meeting you where you want to be met. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in both Missouri and Kansas. I accept insurance to include Aetna, Optum, and UHC. I am EMDR Trained. I enjoy integrating various modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered, and Mindfulness followed through by using strength-based and solutions-focused approaches. I have experience with clients presenting with challenges such as anxiety, depression, major life changing events, trauma, relationship issues, and LGBTQ+ issues.
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Photo of Vonetta McClunie, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Vonetta McClunie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, OTRL, EMDR
Verified Verified
Blue Springs, MO 64015
I am EMDR, SE Beginner 1, and premarital/marital trained.
Life can deliver challenges to us via situations we feel may be in or out of our control. At these moments, we may feel hopeless, pondering who can we seek out for help. As a result, we may experience trauma, anxiety, depression, loss, etc. As both a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Occupational Therapist, we will work together within the context of your relationships to restore optimal health and balance. This process can ultimately create a positive impact on the quality of your daily life. I am honored and amazed at the resiliency and courage of clients as they strive to achieve overall health!
I am EMDR, SE Beginner 1, and premarital/marital trained.
Life can deliver challenges to us via situations we feel may be in or out of our control. At these moments, we may feel hopeless, pondering who can we seek out for help. As a result, we may experience trauma, anxiety, depression, loss, etc. As both a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Occupational Therapist, we will work together within the context of your relationships to restore optimal health and balance. This process can ultimately create a positive impact on the quality of your daily life. I am honored and amazed at the resiliency and courage of clients as they strive to achieve overall health!
(816) 670-2989 View (816) 670-2989
Photo of First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, Counselor in Missouri
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Counselor, PhD CES, ThD PSY, MAC, MA, LPCCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), is used to address complex trauma, and triggers.
I hold two doctorates one in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health care, and professional counseling making me a highly qualified professional counselor, clinician, and therapist. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). My expertise lies in providing talk therapy to individuals of all ages, including adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. To ensure the best outcomes for my clients, I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy as an initial approach. This allows me to effectively address their specific situations and circumstances.
Eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR), is used to address complex trauma, and triggers.
I hold two doctorates one in psychology and a master's degree in clinical mental health care, and professional counseling making me a highly qualified professional counselor, clinician, and therapist. Additionally, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). My expertise lies in providing talk therapy to individuals of all ages, including adolescents, adults, seniors, families, and groups. To ensure the best outcomes for my clients, I utilize cognitive-behavioral therapy as an initial approach. This allows me to effectively address their specific situations and circumstances.
(314) 947-3660 View (314) 947-3660
Photo of Alyson Marie Walters, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Alyson Marie Walters
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64116  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, ACT and Brainspotting.
Hi! Are you seeking a compassionate, dedicated therapist to guide you on your journey toward mental wellness and self-discovery? I use evidence-based practices to help my clients heal from trauma and manage relationships. I have extensive training working with people from all walks of life. I specialize in trauma and addictions counseling, confidence building, issues associated with difficult life transitions, and relationship boundary work. In addition, I work with professionals who struggle with anxiety and depression in the workplace. I genuinely look forward to helping you on your journey to a wellness-filled life.
I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, ACT and Brainspotting.
Hi! Are you seeking a compassionate, dedicated therapist to guide you on your journey toward mental wellness and self-discovery? I use evidence-based practices to help my clients heal from trauma and manage relationships. I have extensive training working with people from all walks of life. I specialize in trauma and addictions counseling, confidence building, issues associated with difficult life transitions, and relationship boundary work. In addition, I work with professionals who struggle with anxiety and depression in the workplace. I genuinely look forward to helping you on your journey to a wellness-filled life.
(480) 530-7526 View (480) 530-7526
Photo of Sohna Shook, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Sohna Shook
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Kansas City, MO 64127  (Online Only)
My training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Therapy.
Everyone has something to work through. My goal is to help those who experience Racial Trauma, General Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma, and Abuse find their strength and hope.
My training is in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Therapy.
Everyone has something to work through. My goal is to help those who experience Racial Trauma, General Trauma, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Grief and Loss, Stress and Anxiety, Trauma, and Abuse find their strength and hope.
(816) 578-0212 View (816) 578-0212
Photo of Christian Williams in Missouri
Christian Williams
PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Overland, MO 63114  (Online Only)
Today might have been a rough day for you. I’m sure scrolling through these profiles trying to find help might feel overwhelming. While there are no promises that I can make regarding the success of your therapeutic journey, I am here if you're looking for support, guidance, or just someone to shoulder the burden with you for awhile. Therapy consists of a variety of modalities and it's best to mix and match for each client to gain their best outcome! While I specialize in CBT, EMDR, and come highly trained in Perinatal Mood Disorders, I think you'll find that I am simply here to put all my tools to use for each client!
Today might have been a rough day for you. I’m sure scrolling through these profiles trying to find help might feel overwhelming. While there are no promises that I can make regarding the success of your therapeutic journey, I am here if you're looking for support, guidance, or just someone to shoulder the burden with you for awhile. Therapy consists of a variety of modalities and it's best to mix and match for each client to gain their best outcome! While I specialize in CBT, EMDR, and come highly trained in Perinatal Mood Disorders, I think you'll find that I am simply here to put all my tools to use for each client!
(636) 306-3013 View (636) 306-3013
Photo of SFC Cares, LLC - Renee McLaurine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Missouri
SFC Cares, LLC - Renee McLaurine, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63118  (Online Only)
Drawing from diverse therapeutic modalities, including EMDR and cognitive-behavioral therapy, we create a roadmap for your unique path to recovery, enveloped with strength, growth, and a restored sense of self.
Embarking on the path to healing from trauma is a courageous and deeply personal journey. It requires individualized and compassionate support in a safe and confidential space that allows you to openly explore your emotions, thoughts, and concerns. Your journey is distinct, and together, we delve into the roots of trauma empowering you to process and integrate these experiences in a way that fosters lasting healing. Through our collaborative work, you will be awakened to your unique gifts and strengths so that you may face and overcome your fears and begin pursuing the life you want.
Drawing from diverse therapeutic modalities, including EMDR and cognitive-behavioral therapy, we create a roadmap for your unique path to recovery, enveloped with strength, growth, and a restored sense of self.
Embarking on the path to healing from trauma is a courageous and deeply personal journey. It requires individualized and compassionate support in a safe and confidential space that allows you to openly explore your emotions, thoughts, and concerns. Your journey is distinct, and together, we delve into the roots of trauma empowering you to process and integrate these experiences in a way that fosters lasting healing. Through our collaborative work, you will be awakened to your unique gifts and strengths so that you may face and overcome your fears and begin pursuing the life you want.
(314) 886-8748 View (314) 886-8748
Photo of Afshan Malik, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Afshan Malik
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR, Coach, MP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Louis, MO 63119  (Online Only)
 Our sessions may include the use of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Family Systems Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Positive Parenting, Narrative Therapy, and Life Coaching skills as needed.
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
 Our sessions may include the use of EMDR, CBT, DBT, Family Systems Therapy, Gottman Therapy, Positive Parenting, Narrative Therapy, and Life Coaching skills as needed.
Life transitions are the new beginning; unfortunately, past experiences, insecurities, trauma, and grief can influence the present behavior & actions. Making life transitions emotionally exhausting while getting the same results exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness in the rut. If you are tired of starting over and want to learn Why, When, & How you self-sabotage your success & relationships, If you want to gain mastery over your emotions, have clarity, focus, and commitment to your life goals. Grow personally/professionally, feel more in control, and less stressed than I am the therapeutic coach you need. Online and self-pay only.
(314) 310-7916 View (314) 310-7916
Photo of Kristie M Tyson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Kristie M Tyson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Louis, MO 63146
I have also been trained in EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
During the human experience, we will have struggles along the way. There are times we don't understand our own actions. We decide to take one approach to solve our problems and find ourselves doing something opposite of what we intended on doing. It is in those moments that we ask ourselves "How did I get here?" As a counselor for over 16 years, I partner with people to find their answers and to unlock their solutions. I have a solution-focused approach that assists clients in reestablishing balance, developing coping skills, and educating them on techniques and strategies to improve their capabilities.
I have also been trained in EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
During the human experience, we will have struggles along the way. There are times we don't understand our own actions. We decide to take one approach to solve our problems and find ourselves doing something opposite of what we intended on doing. It is in those moments that we ask ourselves "How did I get here?" As a counselor for over 16 years, I partner with people to find their answers and to unlock their solutions. I have a solution-focused approach that assists clients in reestablishing balance, developing coping skills, and educating them on techniques and strategies to improve their capabilities.
(314) 207-4614 View (314) 207-4614
Photo of Shara A McGlothan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Missouri
Shara A McGlothan
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Independence, MO 64055
I have additional training in EMDR, Play Therapy, and Mediation.
I am here for those that are fed up, tired, lost, misunderstood, disconnected, and hopeless. Here is a place to release your burden and create a new path. You do not have to stay trapped in your confusion. You do not have to continue to shut down or shut out. You do not have to keep hiding. I can guide you into making sense of your experiences. This leads to new perspectives that allow space for making new meaning or finding solutions. Is your home a war zone? Has your spouse become a stranger? Your child out of control? Life unbearable? Let me help you find clarity in your circumstances and tools to move forward. Find your freedom.
I have additional training in EMDR, Play Therapy, and Mediation.
I am here for those that are fed up, tired, lost, misunderstood, disconnected, and hopeless. Here is a place to release your burden and create a new path. You do not have to stay trapped in your confusion. You do not have to continue to shut down or shut out. You do not have to keep hiding. I can guide you into making sense of your experiences. This leads to new perspectives that allow space for making new meaning or finding solutions. Is your home a war zone? Has your spouse become a stranger? Your child out of control? Life unbearable? Let me help you find clarity in your circumstances and tools to move forward. Find your freedom.
(816) 281-6263 View (816) 281-6263
Photo of Stephanie A Womack, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Stephanie A Womack
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kansas City, MO 64118  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained and I have experience working with individuals, couples, and adolescents struggling with relationship issues, communication difficulties and trauma histories that lead to a variety of mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety.
Do you feel unheard? Do you need a non-judgmental ear when making life decisions? Do you wonder how did I get to this place in my life?
I am EMDR trained and I have experience working with individuals, couples, and adolescents struggling with relationship issues, communication difficulties and trauma histories that lead to a variety of mental health concerns such as depression and anxiety.
Do you feel unheard? Do you need a non-judgmental ear when making life decisions? Do you wonder how did I get to this place in my life?
(816) 448-8131 View (816) 448-8131
Photo of First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
First Choice Counseling Professional Corporation
Licensed Professional Counselor, ThD Psy, PhD CES, LPCCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
We specialize in complex trauma using EMDR and Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, to address client/participant challenges, concerning behavioral health and wellness.
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
We specialize in complex trauma using EMDR and Cognitive behavioral therapy CBT, to address client/participant challenges, concerning behavioral health and wellness.
Our patients are individuals, couples or groups who have been struggling with depression, anxiety, mood disorder and other behavioral challenges that have made ordinary day to day functioning impossible or extremely difficult. Through evidence-based clinical mental health therapy that includes EMDR, CBT, DBT, and SFBT, we assess, and diagnose individuals, couples and groups providing evidenced-based treatment plans.
(314) 310-5648 View (314) 310-5648
Photo of Tarisha Starks, Pre-Licensed Professional in Missouri
Tarisha Starks
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, PLPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Gladstone, MO 64119
Engaging in therapy and choosing a therapist is a daunting process. I am proud of you, this is one of the bravest decisions you will make. Therapy can be the catalyst for uncovering layers of pain, happiness, laughter, and tears. This journey takes an immense amount of faith. We together will work on creating new ways for you to think and act to reach this sometimes overwhelming goal. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I practice from the Cognitive Behavioral model and use different interventions to best assist with creating the change you desire. I am trained in EMDR and TBRI.
Engaging in therapy and choosing a therapist is a daunting process. I am proud of you, this is one of the bravest decisions you will make. Therapy can be the catalyst for uncovering layers of pain, happiness, laughter, and tears. This journey takes an immense amount of faith. We together will work on creating new ways for you to think and act to reach this sometimes overwhelming goal. I have experience working with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I practice from the Cognitive Behavioral model and use different interventions to best assist with creating the change you desire. I am trained in EMDR and TBRI.
(816) 253-8452 View (816) 253-8452
Photo of Jonathan W Hunn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Jonathan W Hunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Saint Charles, MO 63301
I am also EMDR trained.
When you think of a well-rounded individual, the first thing you may think about is someone who is happy with their life and rolls with whatever life brings them. More often than not these days life has had some pitfalls. There is no reason to be ashamed.
I am also EMDR trained.
When you think of a well-rounded individual, the first thing you may think about is someone who is happy with their life and rolls with whatever life brings them. More often than not these days life has had some pitfalls. There is no reason to be ashamed.
(636) 238-2279 View (636) 238-2279
Photo of Adrienne R Petty, Licensed Professional Counselor in Missouri
Adrienne R Petty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MBA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Florissant, MO 63033
My ideal clients are adults, couples and teens who may be struggling with stressful life situations such as difficult relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, substance use and many other issues and who are open to traditional and holistic evidence-based therapeutic modalities that best meet their needs. These include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and anger management. We will walk through your life’s journey to build a foundation of respect and dignity, allowing you to emerge healthy, empowered and whole. There is hope.
My ideal clients are adults, couples and teens who may be struggling with stressful life situations such as difficult relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, substance use and many other issues and who are open to traditional and holistic evidence-based therapeutic modalities that best meet their needs. These include Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and anger management. We will walk through your life’s journey to build a foundation of respect and dignity, allowing you to emerge healthy, empowered and whole. There is hope.
(314) 462-2321 View (314) 462-2321
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.