Photo of Boyce L Smith, Counselor in Matthews, NC
Boyce L Smith
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, LCAS, CCS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Matthews, NC 28105
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
Taking the step to seek out counseling takes tremendous courage and vulnerability. My approach in counseling is holistic and takes into account the whole body, mind, and spirit. As a therapist I treat individuals, couples, and families regardless of race, age, sexuality, gender, religion, or ethnicity. Both professionally and personally, I believe that we all have what is necessary for true growth and change. Join me on the journey of exploring your needs and goals to help you accomplish a desired outcome.
(704) 703-3298 View (704) 703-3298
Photo of Niki Mullis, Marriage & Family Therapist in Matthews, NC
Niki Mullis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Matthews, NC 28105
Niki Mullis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate. A graduate of Queens University with a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Health Services, Niki completed her graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pfeiffer University. She is a Prepare/Enrich facilitator and offers pre-marital counseling. Niki is also certified in the Level 1 Gottman Method and continuing training to become fully certified.
Niki Mullis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist Associate. A graduate of Queens University with a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Health Services, Niki completed her graduate degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pfeiffer University. She is a Prepare/Enrich facilitator and offers pre-marital counseling. Niki is also certified in the Level 1 Gottman Method and continuing training to become fully certified.
(980) 399-5825 View (980) 399-5825

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica McCall, Marriage & Family Therapist in Matthews, NC
Jessica McCall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, CSAT, CPTT, EMDR
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and trauma therapist (EMDR). I walk with clients through emotional healing, addiction recovery, and relationship repair. I help individuals and couples struggling with infidelity, betrayal, trust, intimacy, sex, process addictions (sex/porn, love, work, etc.), communication, and complex or attachment-oriented trauma. I am also Certified to work with premarital couples as a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and I am trained in Discernment Counseling to help couples considering divorce.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and trauma therapist (EMDR). I walk with clients through emotional healing, addiction recovery, and relationship repair. I help individuals and couples struggling with infidelity, betrayal, trust, intimacy, sex, process addictions (sex/porn, love, work, etc.), communication, and complex or attachment-oriented trauma. I am also Certified to work with premarital couples as a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and I am trained in Discernment Counseling to help couples considering divorce.
(980) 255-5335 View (980) 255-5335
Photo of Tina Wehner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Matthews, NC
Tina Wehner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MTSC, LCMHCS, CSAT-S, CHFP
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28209
I currently hold the following Certifications - CSAT-S, CPTT-S, CCBRT (candidate), CHFP, and I am also trained in all levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, EMDR with FSAP, ERCEM, and skilled in 12-step therapy.
Are you interested in accelerating your treatment? I specialize and exclusively offer 3 Day Intensive Therapy in my practice. If you are interested in achieving 6 months of therapy in 3 Days and have a desire and willingness to dig deep, roll up your sleeves and work on your issues then our practice might be a good option for you. Hope & Freedom specializes in treating sexual addiction recovery therapy, betrayal trauma treatment for betrayed partners, and provides top quality couples recovery treatment for couples hoping to restore after betrayal. Our website has lots of helpful information and an application for consideration.
I currently hold the following Certifications - CSAT-S, CPTT-S, CCBRT (candidate), CHFP, and I am also trained in all levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, EMDR with FSAP, ERCEM, and skilled in 12-step therapy.
Are you interested in accelerating your treatment? I specialize and exclusively offer 3 Day Intensive Therapy in my practice. If you are interested in achieving 6 months of therapy in 3 Days and have a desire and willingness to dig deep, roll up your sleeves and work on your issues then our practice might be a good option for you. Hope & Freedom specializes in treating sexual addiction recovery therapy, betrayal trauma treatment for betrayed partners, and provides top quality couples recovery treatment for couples hoping to restore after betrayal. Our website has lots of helpful information and an application for consideration.
(980) 372-3255 View (980) 372-3255
Photo of Marielisa Montero Savinon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Matthews, NC
Marielisa Montero Savinon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203  (Online Only)
I am passionate about helping people be the best version of themselves. With compassion and understanding, I work collaboratively with each individual to help them build on their unique strengths whilst moving forward. I can help you overcome challenges by breaking negative cycles of interaction, healing connections and improving communication. Areas of interest include: PTSD, trauma, DID, depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. I have training in EMDR, and my approach is solution focused, narrative and cognitive behavioral. I am licensed in FL, TX & NC.
I am passionate about helping people be the best version of themselves. With compassion and understanding, I work collaboratively with each individual to help them build on their unique strengths whilst moving forward. I can help you overcome challenges by breaking negative cycles of interaction, healing connections and improving communication. Areas of interest include: PTSD, trauma, DID, depression, anxiety, and grief/loss. I have training in EMDR, and my approach is solution focused, narrative and cognitive behavioral. I am licensed in FL, TX & NC.
(336) 715-3345 View (336) 715-3345
Photo of Carla Rivera, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Matthews, NC
Carla Rivera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSTIP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
We'll address trauma safely (EMDR) to be able to discover YOU again or for the 1st time.
Do negative thoughts & behaviors hinder your life, career, or relationships by keeping you stuck? Is your inner critic too loud, making you feel like you're not enough or telling you that you can't? If you're struggling with sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger, or numbness, life's demands can be tough to keep up with. Change, though intimidating, is within reach with empathetic, nonjudgmental support. Let's explore together what truly resonates with you on your path to self-awareness, growth, and fulfillment. If you're not ready or unsure where to start, let's talk & discover what truly inspires & drives you forward. I'm here for you.
We'll address trauma safely (EMDR) to be able to discover YOU again or for the 1st time.
Do negative thoughts & behaviors hinder your life, career, or relationships by keeping you stuck? Is your inner critic too loud, making you feel like you're not enough or telling you that you can't? If you're struggling with sadness, guilt, anxiety, anger, or numbness, life's demands can be tough to keep up with. Change, though intimidating, is within reach with empathetic, nonjudgmental support. Let's explore together what truly resonates with you on your path to self-awareness, growth, and fulfillment. If you're not ready or unsure where to start, let's talk & discover what truly inspires & drives you forward. I'm here for you.
(910) 405-8481 View (910) 405-8481
Photo of Holly Mackin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Matthews, NC
Holly Mackin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, AASECT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Indian Trail, NC 28079  (Online Only)
I was also trained in EMDR in 2020.
Is your sex life causing issues between you and your partner? Would you benefit from better communication with the important people in your life? Are you experiencing a situation that has made it difficult to cope? Do you crave more intimacy and authenticity with others? I believe that anyone can benefit from support and a nonjudgmental perspective, to access the best version of themselves. I offer a high degree of respect for you, meet you where you are in your life, and work on what you consider to be important. Email me today to schedule a free 15 minute video consultation to explore possibilities and areas you can make headway.
I was also trained in EMDR in 2020.
Is your sex life causing issues between you and your partner? Would you benefit from better communication with the important people in your life? Are you experiencing a situation that has made it difficult to cope? Do you crave more intimacy and authenticity with others? I believe that anyone can benefit from support and a nonjudgmental perspective, to access the best version of themselves. I offer a high degree of respect for you, meet you where you are in your life, and work on what you consider to be important. Email me today to schedule a free 15 minute video consultation to explore possibilities and areas you can make headway.
(704) 396-4826 View (704) 396-4826
Photo of Amari Leaphart, Marriage & Family Therapist in Matthews, NC
Amari Leaphart
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
I enjoy caring for my clients, who struggle to feel loved and cared for daily. I work with individuals suffering from anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, major life changes, and couples and families who experience chronic relationship conflict. Many of my clients feel like their emotional needs aren’t being met. They feel guilty for wanting more in their lives and have difficulty advocating for themselves. I use EMDR, a structured yet flexible approach, to help clients process their trauma, reduce psychological distress, and promote healing and emotional well-being.
I enjoy caring for my clients, who struggle to feel loved and cared for daily. I work with individuals suffering from anxiety, trauma, low self-esteem, major life changes, and couples and families who experience chronic relationship conflict. Many of my clients feel like their emotional needs aren’t being met. They feel guilty for wanting more in their lives and have difficulty advocating for themselves. I use EMDR, a structured yet flexible approach, to help clients process their trauma, reduce psychological distress, and promote healing and emotional well-being.
(972) 357-0948 View (972) 357-0948
Photo of Angela Hathaway, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Matthews, NC
Angela Hathaway
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, childbirth trauma, perinatal disorders, and couples counseling using a wide range of evidence-based modalities, including traditional "talk therapy," and neuro-based approaches such as EMDR. Trauma, such as childhood abuse, sexual violence, domestic violence, etc., can create chaos in many areas of your life, including relationships, parenting, work/school performance, and even your physical health. My goal is to provide a warm and compassionate space where we can explore not just the trauma itself, but also how it intersects with other issues and patterns in your life.
I specialize in trauma/PTSD, childbirth trauma, perinatal disorders, and couples counseling using a wide range of evidence-based modalities, including traditional "talk therapy," and neuro-based approaches such as EMDR. Trauma, such as childhood abuse, sexual violence, domestic violence, etc., can create chaos in many areas of your life, including relationships, parenting, work/school performance, and even your physical health. My goal is to provide a warm and compassionate space where we can explore not just the trauma itself, but also how it intersects with other issues and patterns in your life.
(980) 243-4907 View (980) 243-4907
Photo of Zoë Endicott, Counselor in Matthews, NC
Zoë Endicott
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC, PMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207  (Online Only)
Life is hard (especially right now!). Many of us have encountered loss and disappointment that is oout of our control. But the difference between grief and trauma is very often the support we receive during these periods and the meaning we make of these losses. I work with clients using a highly effective, evidence based treatment called EMDR to help clear away trauma and experience more joy and ease in daily life. I have advanced training in perinatal mental health and specialize in supporting individuals and couples during the complex transition into parenthood and the losses that may accompany it.
Life is hard (especially right now!). Many of us have encountered loss and disappointment that is oout of our control. But the difference between grief and trauma is very often the support we receive during these periods and the meaning we make of these losses. I work with clients using a highly effective, evidence based treatment called EMDR to help clear away trauma and experience more joy and ease in daily life. I have advanced training in perinatal mental health and specialize in supporting individuals and couples during the complex transition into parenthood and the losses that may accompany it.
(704) 270-6643 View (704) 270-6643
Photo of Krystle Moxley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Matthews, NC
Krystle Moxley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205  (Online Only)
Are you ready to work through a traumatic event or looking to try EMDR? Perhaps you need to process through a loss or a new life transition? There are so many reasons people seek out therapy. Please do not hesitate to reach out and ask any questions you may have. My approach to therapy is to create a space where you feel free from judgment and can work alongside your therapist to reach the goals you set. My therapy approach is direct yet compassionate. As a clinician who provides telehealth, I have the privilege of seeing clients who live across the entirety of North Carolina.
Are you ready to work through a traumatic event or looking to try EMDR? Perhaps you need to process through a loss or a new life transition? There are so many reasons people seek out therapy. Please do not hesitate to reach out and ask any questions you may have. My approach to therapy is to create a space where you feel free from judgment and can work alongside your therapist to reach the goals you set. My therapy approach is direct yet compassionate. As a clinician who provides telehealth, I have the privilege of seeing clients who live across the entirety of North Carolina.
(910) 841-1586 View (910) 841-1586
Photo of Kim Ronk, Counselor in Matthews, NC
Kim Ronk
Counselor, RN, MA, LPCC, MEd
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28226
I am trained in EMDR.
I believe we all deserve healthy sexual relationships whatever that may look like! Couples have an exciting opportunity to create their own sexual and intimacy connection. Healthy sexuality comprises 20% of our relationship, but becomes an unhealthy 90% when it is filled with disappointments. I frequently hear "we are roommates." Our sexuality is interwoven with our self esteem. My therapy approach improves self esteem and the ability to connect. Sexual concerns surrounding desire, arousal, orgasms, erections and pain are treated in my practice. I see individuals as frequently as couples. Change begins with the individual.
I am trained in EMDR.
I believe we all deserve healthy sexual relationships whatever that may look like! Couples have an exciting opportunity to create their own sexual and intimacy connection. Healthy sexuality comprises 20% of our relationship, but becomes an unhealthy 90% when it is filled with disappointments. I frequently hear "we are roommates." Our sexuality is interwoven with our self esteem. My therapy approach improves self esteem and the ability to connect. Sexual concerns surrounding desire, arousal, orgasms, erections and pain are treated in my practice. I see individuals as frequently as couples. Change begins with the individual.
(704) 486-1182 View (704) 486-1182
Photo of Holly Russell, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Matthews, NC
Holly Russell
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFTA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
As an EMDR-trained trauma therapist, I guide clients through emotional healing, addiction recovery, and relationship repair, integrating evidence-based approaches like CBT and ACT.
As a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist, my therapeutic journey is guided by a collaborative approach aimed at fostering resilient relationships. With a profound understanding of relational dynamics, I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate emotional wounds and destructive coping strategies. My mission is to guide clients towards self-discovery, living with integrity, finding balance, and fostering healthy attachments to those they love. I specialize in addressing a spectrum of challenges, including infidelity and trust issues, trauma, process addictions, and intimacy and sex related concerns.
As an EMDR-trained trauma therapist, I guide clients through emotional healing, addiction recovery, and relationship repair, integrating evidence-based approaches like CBT and ACT.
As a dedicated Marriage and Family Therapist, my therapeutic journey is guided by a collaborative approach aimed at fostering resilient relationships. With a profound understanding of relational dynamics, I am committed to helping individuals, couples, and families navigate emotional wounds and destructive coping strategies. My mission is to guide clients towards self-discovery, living with integrity, finding balance, and fostering healthy attachments to those they love. I specialize in addressing a spectrum of challenges, including infidelity and trust issues, trauma, process addictions, and intimacy and sex related concerns.
(910) 606-4885 View (910) 606-4885
Photo of Zachary Rothwell in Matthews, NC
Zachary Rothwell
PMHNP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28211
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
I work with adults struggling with relationship issues, addiction, depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Many of my clients are high performers who have become successful despite a difficult childhood. If you are curious how therapy can help you reduce your suffering, improve your relationships, and help you heal from past traumas, I encourage you to reach out for a free consultation. I use elements of EMDR therapy in my approach. I am kink allied and sex positive. I invite you to come as you are. I will respect, support, and encourage you during our time in therapy.
(332) 244-3936 View (332) 244-3936
Photo of Tamara Hicks, Licensed Professional Counselor in Matthews, NC
Tamara Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28212
I am trained or certified in all of the following modalities: Person-Centered Therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) SFBT (Solution Focus Based Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Trauma Informed and EMDR.
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
I am trained or certified in all of the following modalities: Person-Centered Therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) SFBT (Solution Focus Based Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Trauma Informed and EMDR.
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
(704) 313-1034 View (704) 313-1034
Photo of UniquelyU Counseling and Coaching, Licensed Professional Counselor in Matthews, NC
UniquelyU Counseling and Coaching
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC, SATP, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28207  (Online Only)
Let's be honest, sometimes you just want to talk. That's it, talk to get all of IT out, whatever your it is. The bottom line is you need someone to listen. So let's .... TALK.
Let's be honest, sometimes you just want to talk. That's it, talk to get all of IT out, whatever your it is. The bottom line is you need someone to listen. So let's .... TALK.
(816) 327-2234 View (816) 327-2234
Photo of Brooke Szitas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Matthews, NC
Brooke Szitas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205
Life is full of transitions and challenges that can lead to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and family problems. You may feel frustrated, anxious, and disappointed leading to your desire to seek help. I believe everyone needs a person that supports, advocates, and listens to them. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to build a space of acceptance to promote your growth and honor your strengths. I believe everyone has their own unique experiences and therefore, I adapt my approach to fit your needs and goals.
Life is full of transitions and challenges that can lead to depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and family problems. You may feel frustrated, anxious, and disappointed leading to your desire to seek help. I believe everyone needs a person that supports, advocates, and listens to them. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I strive to build a space of acceptance to promote your growth and honor your strengths. I believe everyone has their own unique experiences and therefore, I adapt my approach to fit your needs and goals.
(704) 741-3502 View (704) 741-3502
Photo of Paige Rodefer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Matthews, NC
Paige Rodefer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR-CT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28207
Change is inevitable in today's world, but what happens when we get stuck? Whether it is unhelpful cycles of communication/interaction with others, difficult relationships, challenging experiences, life transitions, or painful experiences from our family of origin, sometimes knowing how or where to begin can feel overwhelming. Or maybe it seems not worthy of bringing up, feeling unheard or having shame about communicating your wants and needs? Or maybe you just want more satisfaction in your life and relationships. Does this sound familiar? Are you looking for change?
Change is inevitable in today's world, but what happens when we get stuck? Whether it is unhelpful cycles of communication/interaction with others, difficult relationships, challenging experiences, life transitions, or painful experiences from our family of origin, sometimes knowing how or where to begin can feel overwhelming. Or maybe it seems not worthy of bringing up, feeling unheard or having shame about communicating your wants and needs? Or maybe you just want more satisfaction in your life and relationships. Does this sound familiar? Are you looking for change?
(478) 241-5629 View (478) 241-5629
Photo of Matone Counseling and Testing, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Matthews, NC
Matone Counseling and Testing
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Matone Counseling operates two locations in Charlotte, and two in Asheville, NC. Our staff of over 50 clinicians includes psychologists, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and licensed mental health counselors. We offer evidence based approaches to help couples and individuals of all ages effectively address life challenges through a collaborative relationship. Our experienced staff will offer an environment that will feel safe, neutral, non judgmental and supportive.
Matone Counseling operates two locations in Charlotte, and two in Asheville, NC. Our staff of over 50 clinicians includes psychologists, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and licensed mental health counselors. We offer evidence based approaches to help couples and individuals of all ages effectively address life challenges through a collaborative relationship. Our experienced staff will offer an environment that will feel safe, neutral, non judgmental and supportive.
(704) 270-6595 View (704) 270-6595
Photo of Michelle Holleman, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Matthews, NC
Michelle Holleman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
It is my honor to be a part of your healing journey and recovery. Nothing is really a problem, until it becomes a problem. My mission is to guide people to heal and find their authentic selves via an exceptional therapeutic process and experience. As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, I specialize in supporting teens, adults, and their loved ones recover from sex/love, pornography, internet/gaming, mental health issues, and drug and alcohol addiction/dependency. There is no judgement and I welcome all. This is a safe place to heal.
It is my honor to be a part of your healing journey and recovery. Nothing is really a problem, until it becomes a problem. My mission is to guide people to heal and find their authentic selves via an exceptional therapeutic process and experience. As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, I specialize in supporting teens, adults, and their loved ones recover from sex/love, pornography, internet/gaming, mental health issues, and drug and alcohol addiction/dependency. There is no judgement and I welcome all. This is a safe place to heal.
(704) 469-5425 View (704) 469-5425

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.