EMDR Therapists in Plainview, TX

Photo of Robert J Ragland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Robert J Ragland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plainview, TX 79072
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR Trained.
I believe people have the capacity to change if provided a safe environment in which to recognize and overcome obstacles or barriers to personal happiness. I am passionate about seeing people experience freedom and seeing marriages healed, and I believe God is the ultimate healer.
EMDR Trained.
I believe people have the capacity to change if provided a safe environment in which to recognize and overcome obstacles or barriers to personal happiness. I am passionate about seeing people experience freedom and seeing marriages healed, and I believe God is the ultimate healer.
(806) 731-1246 View (806) 731-1246
Photo of Waypoints Counseling, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, TX
Waypoints Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plainview, TX 79072
I offer EMDR Therapy for trauma and PTSD related issues.
It can happen to anyone. Life is going along just fine, and then before you realize what happened, you find yourself in a tough situation you never expected. Coping with it has been far from easy, to say the least. You're not alone! If it's a traumatic event, if it's ongoing circumstances that impact your mood and overall functioning, perhaps I can help. I have specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, as well as Solutions-Focused Therapy. I use a holistic approach; considering the whole person in their environment.
I offer EMDR Therapy for trauma and PTSD related issues.
It can happen to anyone. Life is going along just fine, and then before you realize what happened, you find yourself in a tough situation you never expected. Coping with it has been far from easy, to say the least. You're not alone! If it's a traumatic event, if it's ongoing circumstances that impact your mood and overall functioning, perhaps I can help. I have specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, as well as Solutions-Focused Therapy. I use a holistic approach; considering the whole person in their environment.
(806) 553-2617 View (806) 553-2617
Photo of Sharla Beth Knippa, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Sharla Beth Knippa
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Plainview, TX 79072
My approach is client-centered utilizing modalities including Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) as well as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hello! I am Sharla Knippa, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I am honored to meet and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families to find healing and purpose when they are faced with difficult, confusing, or overwhelming events in their lives. I look forward to assisting you in your journey. I want to empower you by guiding you toward making the choices that will yield the most positive interpersonal outcomes based on your strengths.
My approach is client-centered utilizing modalities including Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) as well as Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hello! I am Sharla Knippa, a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). I am honored to meet and work with children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families to find healing and purpose when they are faced with difficult, confusing, or overwhelming events in their lives. I look forward to assisting you in your journey. I want to empower you by guiding you toward making the choices that will yield the most positive interpersonal outcomes based on your strengths.
(806) 375-3641 View (806) 375-3641
Photo of Michelle L Vermilye, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, TX
Michelle L Vermilye
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plainview, TX 79072
As an EMDR therapist, I can guide you through the trauma and stress in a more kind and gentle way and provide you with the tools necessary to cope.
Do you find it difficult to focus especially when you're feeling stressed? Can regular, everyday activities seem like more than you can handle at times? I’m glad than you’ve taken this first step to seek support. I’m here to provide support and guidance as you take steps toward reaching those goals that seemed impossible at one point in your life.
As an EMDR therapist, I can guide you through the trauma and stress in a more kind and gentle way and provide you with the tools necessary to cope.
Do you find it difficult to focus especially when you're feeling stressed? Can regular, everyday activities seem like more than you can handle at times? I’m glad than you’ve taken this first step to seek support. I’m here to provide support and guidance as you take steps toward reaching those goals that seemed impossible at one point in your life.
(806) 203-4212 View (806) 203-4212
Photo of Gordon Jones, Counselor in Plainview, TX
Gordon Jones
Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Plainview, TX 79073
I am trained in EMDR, and I use it to help those who have experienced trauma.
I am a faith-based counselor, which means that I invite clients to integrate their faith into the counseling process. I help clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, couples issues, relationship issues, pre-marital counseling, and life-span issues.
I am trained in EMDR, and I use it to help those who have experienced trauma.
I am a faith-based counselor, which means that I invite clients to integrate their faith into the counseling process. I help clients with depression, anxiety, trauma, couples issues, relationship issues, pre-marital counseling, and life-span issues.
(806) 731-4922 View (806) 731-4922
Photo of Katie Nunez, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Katie Nunez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSOTP
Verified Verified
Plainview, TX 79072
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a trained EMDR therapist, and a Sex Offender Treatment Provider. My background includes working with individuals that need help with trauma, relationship issues, sexual issues, anxiety, and depression. My primary approach to treatment is integrating Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Schema Therapy, as well as EMDR therapy for trauma specific treatment. I also integrate other modalities to fit the client's needs and treatment goals. I am committed to helping people learn how to solve their problems and live their healthiest lives.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a trained EMDR therapist, and a Sex Offender Treatment Provider. My background includes working with individuals that need help with trauma, relationship issues, sexual issues, anxiety, and depression. My primary approach to treatment is integrating Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Schema Therapy, as well as EMDR therapy for trauma specific treatment. I also integrate other modalities to fit the client's needs and treatment goals. I am committed to helping people learn how to solve their problems and live their healthiest lives.
(806) 557-1616 View (806) 557-1616
Photo of Sarah Dunn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Sarah Dunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plainview, TX 79072
If you are seeking a compassionate guide trained in EMDR therapy to accompany you through the perinatal period or support you in navigating the challenges of college life, please contact me today for a free 15 minute consultation to see if I might be the right therapist for you.
As a trauma therapist, I specialize in supporting young mothers, college-age women, and individuals navigating trauma. I strive to create a therapeutic space crafted to support individuals navigating the delicate perinatal period and college-age women who are seeking to understand themselves as they move into adulthood. As a seasoned therapist, my passion lies in providing a safe haven for those seeking guidance during life's transformative stages. My ideal client is a perceptive individual embracing the journey of motherhood or a college-age woman navigating the complexities of identity, relationships, and self-discovery.
If you are seeking a compassionate guide trained in EMDR therapy to accompany you through the perinatal period or support you in navigating the challenges of college life, please contact me today for a free 15 minute consultation to see if I might be the right therapist for you.
As a trauma therapist, I specialize in supporting young mothers, college-age women, and individuals navigating trauma. I strive to create a therapeutic space crafted to support individuals navigating the delicate perinatal period and college-age women who are seeking to understand themselves as they move into adulthood. As a seasoned therapist, my passion lies in providing a safe haven for those seeking guidance during life's transformative stages. My ideal client is a perceptive individual embracing the journey of motherhood or a college-age woman navigating the complexities of identity, relationships, and self-discovery.
(806) 515-4080 View (806) 515-4080
Photo of Timothy James White, Marriage & Family Therapist in Plainview, TX
Timothy James White
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LSOTP, ASAT, APTT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plainview, TX 79072
Are you hurting? Are you or a loved one struggling with compulsive or addictive behavior? Has some tragedy or family revelation blindsided you and now you are wondering what to do next? Please reach out to Tim with Dr. White and Associates, P.C. He is passionate about providing counseling for individuals, couples, and families. His desire is to help you and yours find flourishing and abundant life. He is standing by to serve your needs in addiction and recovery, anxiety and depression, and general couples therapy. Whatever is troubling you in life call Tim at Dr. White and Assoc. and see what he can do for you.
Are you hurting? Are you or a loved one struggling with compulsive or addictive behavior? Has some tragedy or family revelation blindsided you and now you are wondering what to do next? Please reach out to Tim with Dr. White and Associates, P.C. He is passionate about providing counseling for individuals, couples, and families. His desire is to help you and yours find flourishing and abundant life. He is standing by to serve your needs in addiction and recovery, anxiety and depression, and general couples therapy. Whatever is troubling you in life call Tim at Dr. White and Assoc. and see what he can do for you.
(806) 452-2406 View (806) 452-2406
Photo of Jennifer Morse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Jennifer Morse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, PLLC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plainview, TX 79072
Not accepting new clients
Welcome! Jennifer strives to help people feel empowered and confident in their decisions, gain self-understanding and awareness, and find direction. Jennifer can help you process trauma (past or recent) and develop coping strategies. Jennifer provides person-centered therapy and wants to meet you where you are in life. Jennifer wants you to feel that you are a part of your therapy journey. Clients describe Jennifer as easy-going, open-minded, understanding, and easy to talk to. Jennifer values comprehensive care and collaboration with doctors, psychiatrists, and other professionals (with client consent).
Welcome! Jennifer strives to help people feel empowered and confident in their decisions, gain self-understanding and awareness, and find direction. Jennifer can help you process trauma (past or recent) and develop coping strategies. Jennifer provides person-centered therapy and wants to meet you where you are in life. Jennifer wants you to feel that you are a part of your therapy journey. Clients describe Jennifer as easy-going, open-minded, understanding, and easy to talk to. Jennifer values comprehensive care and collaboration with doctors, psychiatrists, and other professionals (with client consent).
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Online Therapists

Photo of Bradley Roark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Bradley Roark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Lubbock, TX 79424
I am a Certified Hypnotherapist and Trained in EMDR.
I obtained my Master's Degree in Counseling from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2008, and have dedicated over thirty years to pastoral and counseling roles. With a warm and friendly Christian perspective, I am here to assist you in navigating your emotions and challenging thought patterns. My counseling style is laid back, and empathetic. I use gentle guidance, and practical instruction to help you redirect problematic thinking patterns. I believe in building a collaborative partnership with my clients.
I am a Certified Hypnotherapist and Trained in EMDR.
I obtained my Master's Degree in Counseling from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2008, and have dedicated over thirty years to pastoral and counseling roles. With a warm and friendly Christian perspective, I am here to assist you in navigating your emotions and challenging thought patterns. My counseling style is laid back, and empathetic. I use gentle guidance, and practical instruction to help you redirect problematic thinking patterns. I believe in building a collaborative partnership with my clients.
(806) 256-4250 View (806) 256-4250
Photo of D'Shawn Yeager, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
D'Shawn Yeager
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Lubbock, TX 79423
I am trained in DBT and EMDR for trauma.
My name is D’Shawn Yeager, I am an LPC and LCDC. I am pleased to offer psychotherapy in Texas, specifically in person in Lubbock regions and virtually elsewhere. I work primarily with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also collaborate with clients who have disordered eating patterns or struggle with body image. I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Because of this pairing of DBT and EMDR I am in a unique position to help individuals with PTSD, addictions, and traumas - big or small.
I am trained in DBT and EMDR for trauma.
My name is D’Shawn Yeager, I am an LPC and LCDC. I am pleased to offer psychotherapy in Texas, specifically in person in Lubbock regions and virtually elsewhere. I work primarily with adolescents and young adults who are struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also collaborate with clients who have disordered eating patterns or struggle with body image. I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR). Because of this pairing of DBT and EMDR I am in a unique position to help individuals with PTSD, addictions, and traumas - big or small.
(832) 723-5906 View (832) 723-5906
Photo of D'Shawn Yeager, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
D'Shawn Yeager
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Lubbock, TX 79423
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and EMDR.
My ideal client is an adolescent or young adult who is struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also collaborate with clients who have eating disorders or struggle with body image. I offer psychotherapy in Texas through Zoom. Or I see clients in Lubbock in person. I aim to exceed client's expectations for a full and productive life. My personal approach is to practice radically open acceptance of my client through validation, while also expecting change and personal growth. This is particularly important for individuals who have intense emotions with ineffective coping skills.
I am trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and EMDR.
My ideal client is an adolescent or young adult who is struggling with anxiety, depression, and trauma. I also collaborate with clients who have eating disorders or struggle with body image. I offer psychotherapy in Texas through Zoom. Or I see clients in Lubbock in person. I aim to exceed client's expectations for a full and productive life. My personal approach is to practice radically open acceptance of my client through validation, while also expecting change and personal growth. This is particularly important for individuals who have intense emotions with ineffective coping skills.
(806) 304-0809 View (806) 304-0809
Photo of Jennifer Miller, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate in Plainview, TX
Jennifer Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79109
I have experience working with clients dealing with childhood trauma, grief due to a death, recent traumatic event, depression, and anxiety by using EMDR and CBT techniques to work on improving daily life, and teaching new skills to manage life's many challenges.
Now taking new clients! I am an LPC Associate, supervised by Elizabeth Clark, LPC-S. I am the owner of Enrichment Counseling. My goal is to help educate clients on mental health, support them in working on improving self and assist with adjusting to life's many changes. I love to work with clients willing to grow and find more understanding in life, by providing a compassionate, non-biases environment to help them grow.
I have experience working with clients dealing with childhood trauma, grief due to a death, recent traumatic event, depression, and anxiety by using EMDR and CBT techniques to work on improving daily life, and teaching new skills to manage life's many challenges.
Now taking new clients! I am an LPC Associate, supervised by Elizabeth Clark, LPC-S. I am the owner of Enrichment Counseling. My goal is to help educate clients on mental health, support them in working on improving self and assist with adjusting to life's many changes. I love to work with clients willing to grow and find more understanding in life, by providing a compassionate, non-biases environment to help them grow.
(806) 304-7460 View (806) 304-7460
Photo of Terri R Beard, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Terri R Beard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, MEd, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lubbock, TX 79424  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients! Has it been challenging trying to manage your emotions and reactions? Let me help you achieve emotional stability in your life, giving you confidence of your capabilities and potential. I have extensive experience using evidenced based methods working with clients struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, and LGBTQ-affirming therapy. I am also trained in EMDR therapy, which helps people recover from trauma/PTSD and painful life experiences. My approach to therapy focuses on growing a relationship built on compassion and authenticity. You don't have to navigate these waters alone!
Accepting New Clients! Has it been challenging trying to manage your emotions and reactions? Let me help you achieve emotional stability in your life, giving you confidence of your capabilities and potential. I have extensive experience using evidenced based methods working with clients struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, trauma, and LGBTQ-affirming therapy. I am also trained in EMDR therapy, which helps people recover from trauma/PTSD and painful life experiences. My approach to therapy focuses on growing a relationship built on compassion and authenticity. You don't have to navigate these waters alone!
(806) 450-1699 View (806) 450-1699
Photo of Jana Ivey, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Jana Ivey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79118
When we meet, I will work with you using evidence-based therapy techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, EMDR trauma therapy, family systems therapy and the Intimacy Therapy technique.
I have a passion for helping clients find freedom and hope in their life circumstances. I want to join them on their path through life and help them find healing both emotionally and spiritually. I come from a biblically-based perspective but am very happy to meet you where you are spiritually. In my practice, I have worked with a wide range of belief systems - from atheists to devout Christians. My desire is to join you and journey with you to hope and healing.
When we meet, I will work with you using evidence-based therapy techniques including cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, EMDR trauma therapy, family systems therapy and the Intimacy Therapy technique.
I have a passion for helping clients find freedom and hope in their life circumstances. I want to join them on their path through life and help them find healing both emotionally and spiritually. I come from a biblically-based perspective but am very happy to meet you where you are spiritually. In my practice, I have worked with a wide range of belief systems - from atheists to devout Christians. My desire is to join you and journey with you to hope and healing.
(940) 295-4232 View (940) 295-4232
Photo of Emilee Hammond, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Emilee Hammond
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lubbock, TX 79424
Jennifer Baggerly and EMDR training with Rick Levinson.
During times of transition it is hard to keep moving or even hold your ground. There are times you might feel alone or lost. Worries may come and keep you up at night or lead you to places you never thought you could go. If you are facing these moments of uncertainty and hopelessness, know that there is hope. Throughout counseling I cannot promise less heartache, pain, and loss. I can promise to sit with you throughout your journey and together find ways to provide hope for the future.
Jennifer Baggerly and EMDR training with Rick Levinson.
During times of transition it is hard to keep moving or even hold your ground. There are times you might feel alone or lost. Worries may come and keep you up at night or lead you to places you never thought you could go. If you are facing these moments of uncertainty and hopelessness, know that there is hope. Throughout counseling I cannot promise less heartache, pain, and loss. I can promise to sit with you throughout your journey and together find ways to provide hope for the future.
(806) 786-1661 View (806) 786-1661
Photo of Divine Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Divine Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Lubbock, TX 79414
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in helping clients grow into better people, I also focus on addressing emotional wounds and past trauma. Through being in practice for more than twenty years, I learned how to aid individuals in developing mental, emotional, and spiritual maturity. I use a holistic approach to guide my clients down a path of self-discovery and healing. I am trained in trauma specific therapies, such as TFCBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy) and EMDR as well as play therapy.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) who specializes in helping clients grow into better people, I also focus on addressing emotional wounds and past trauma. Through being in practice for more than twenty years, I learned how to aid individuals in developing mental, emotional, and spiritual maturity. I use a holistic approach to guide my clients down a path of self-discovery and healing. I am trained in trauma specific therapies, such as TFCBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy) and EMDR as well as play therapy.
(806) 513-3616 View (806) 513-3616
Photo of Wenona Y Andress, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Plainview, TX
Wenona Y Andress
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lubbock, TX 79423
I use CBT, Motivational, Experiential, and EMDR among traditional approaches.
Do you have chronic pain and wonder if you can enjoy life again? Does your family struggle with addiction? Interested in reducing symptoms from a traumatic event? Trying to stop tobacco for health or prior to a surgery? Adjusting to mental illness/long term health condition and feel lost? It's my passion to guide you to a life that is as full as possible! I have been treating these issues, mood disorders, ADD/other adjustment disorders for 8+ years. My typical clients are young adults to Seniors. I see children/adults age 10 and over for chronic pain.
I use CBT, Motivational, Experiential, and EMDR among traditional approaches.
Do you have chronic pain and wonder if you can enjoy life again? Does your family struggle with addiction? Interested in reducing symptoms from a traumatic event? Trying to stop tobacco for health or prior to a surgery? Adjusting to mental illness/long term health condition and feel lost? It's my passion to guide you to a life that is as full as possible! I have been treating these issues, mood disorders, ADD/other adjustment disorders for 8+ years. My typical clients are young adults to Seniors. I see children/adults age 10 and over for chronic pain.
(806) 474-5787 View (806) 474-5787
Photo of Lauren Strickland, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Lauren Strickland
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Lubbock, TX 79414
I am currently trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have clinical experience implementing these for the treatment of depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, and complex trauma issues.
I am committed to providing compassionate and non-judgmental support by providing a safe space for clients to open up and process emotional hardship. I have a passion for working with those who have severe mental health issues, and have worked in this area for 7+ years. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, trauma, severe mental illness, and dissociative disorders. I believe that it is important to feel heard, understood, and safe with your therapist.
I am currently trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have clinical experience implementing these for the treatment of depression, anxiety, emotion regulation, and complex trauma issues.
I am committed to providing compassionate and non-judgmental support by providing a safe space for clients to open up and process emotional hardship. I have a passion for working with those who have severe mental health issues, and have worked in this area for 7+ years. I work with individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, trauma, severe mental illness, and dissociative disorders. I believe that it is important to feel heard, understood, and safe with your therapist.
(806) 230-4676 View (806) 230-4676
Photo of Bethany McKinney, Licensed Professional Counselor in Plainview, TX
Bethany McKinney
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lubbock, TX 79414  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I offer EMDR therapy and talk therapy for ages 11+.
I have a passion for people who have experienced trauma. I believe in looking beyond symptoms to find the root cause of an issue and strive to make sure clients are not only heard but understood. There are reasons behind the behaviors and feelings that mark our lives, and I want to help people discover what those reasons are and how to address them. I have experience counseling folks (including seniors and their caregivers) dealing with grief, loss, and life transitions. I have clinical experience with clients who have anxiety, depression, PTSD, and dissociative disorders.
I offer EMDR therapy and talk therapy for ages 11+.
I have a passion for people who have experienced trauma. I believe in looking beyond symptoms to find the root cause of an issue and strive to make sure clients are not only heard but understood. There are reasons behind the behaviors and feelings that mark our lives, and I want to help people discover what those reasons are and how to address them. I have experience counseling folks (including seniors and their caregivers) dealing with grief, loss, and life transitions. I have clinical experience with clients who have anxiety, depression, PTSD, and dissociative disorders.
(806) 451-3680 View (806) 451-3680

See more therapy options for Plainview

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.