EMDR Therapists in Marietta, GA

Photo of Meagan Shipes, Counselor, APC
Meagan Shipes
Counselor, APC
Marietta, GA 30062
I use evidence-based approaches such as EMDR and CBT to help clients process difficult experiences, reduce anxiety, and develop healthier ways of responding to stress
My goal is to create a comfortable, judgment-free space where you can talk openly about what you’re going through and begin making sense of it. I work with adults who are navigating trauma, grief, ADHD, anxiety, and major life stressors. Many of my clients are thoughtful, high-functioning people who appear to be doing well on the outside but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected internally. Some come to therapy after painful experiences or losses, while others are trying to better understand patterns in their relationships, emotions, or sense of identity.
I use evidence-based approaches such as EMDR and CBT to help clients process difficult experiences, reduce anxiety, and develop healthier ways of responding to stress
My goal is to create a comfortable, judgment-free space where you can talk openly about what you’re going through and begin making sense of it. I work with adults who are navigating trauma, grief, ADHD, anxiety, and major life stressors. Many of my clients are thoughtful, high-functioning people who appear to be doing well on the outside but feel overwhelmed, stuck, or disconnected internally. Some come to therapy after painful experiences or losses, while others are trying to better understand patterns in their relationships, emotions, or sense of identity.
(770) 758-6505 View (770) 758-6505
Photo of Lori Rader-Jacobs, Counselor, LPC, NCC, MACMHC
Lori Rader-Jacobs
Counselor, LPC, NCC, MACMHC
6 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I am a fully trained EMDR therapist, certified Gottman Level 1 couples counselor and work with those who consider faith to be an integral part of their worldview.
Are you someone suffering relational distress resulting from problematic sexual behaviors and betrayal? Are you dealing with trauma, stress or unwanted patterns of behavior that interfere with your individual, relational and career aspirations? I can help with experienced and compassionate counseling. In addition to personal sessions, I facilitate therapeutic disclosures and lead betrayal trauma groups. If you are an older adolescent or adult suffering with body image issues & disordered eating, you can find support and hope here, as well.
I am a fully trained EMDR therapist, certified Gottman Level 1 couples counselor and work with those who consider faith to be an integral part of their worldview.
Are you someone suffering relational distress resulting from problematic sexual behaviors and betrayal? Are you dealing with trauma, stress or unwanted patterns of behavior that interfere with your individual, relational and career aspirations? I can help with experienced and compassionate counseling. In addition to personal sessions, I facilitate therapeutic disclosures and lead betrayal trauma groups. If you are an older adolescent or adult suffering with body image issues & disordered eating, you can find support and hope here, as well.
(706) 888-8222 View (706) 888-8222
Photo of Paulett D Lawrence, Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Paulett D Lawrence
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
EMDR Trained.
I specializes in treating individuals and families impacted by trauma, shame, depression, anxiety, anger, and low self-esteem.
EMDR Trained.
I specializes in treating individuals and families impacted by trauma, shame, depression, anxiety, anger, and low self-esteem.
(404) 586-4296 x7 View (404) 586-4296 x7
Photo of Dr. Keith Myers, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS
Dr. Keith Myers
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, ACS
8 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I am an intensively trained trauma therapist that utilizes EMDR therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other interventions within a context of a professional relationship.
Hello, my name is Keith Myers, and one of my goals is to help you enhance your mental health. Many have a story about mental health, and I'd love to hear yours! I have worked in the mental health profession for over 23 years. Most of my clients are military, first responders, and couples. I mainly help people recover from the effects of trauma. I've worked weekly with veterans since 2011 when I served as the mental health counselor at the SHARE military initiative program at the Shepherd Center. I've also worked weekly with couples since about 2015 and am intensively trained in Level 3 Gottman method couples therapy.
I am an intensively trained trauma therapist that utilizes EMDR therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and other interventions within a context of a professional relationship.
Hello, my name is Keith Myers, and one of my goals is to help you enhance your mental health. Many have a story about mental health, and I'd love to hear yours! I have worked in the mental health profession for over 23 years. Most of my clients are military, first responders, and couples. I mainly help people recover from the effects of trauma. I've worked weekly with veterans since 2011 when I served as the mental health counselor at the SHARE military initiative program at the Shepherd Center. I've also worked weekly with couples since about 2015 and am intensively trained in Level 3 Gottman method couples therapy.
(404) 586-4072 View (404) 586-4072
Photo of George Harrison Shu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
George Harrison Shu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
Do you struggle with fear? You might feel like you’re a shell of your old self after a traumatic event. Perhaps social settings might be really challenging because you feel so much anxiety. Or, it could be that one thing really scares you like clowns, blood, or airplanes. Or, maybe it looks like OCD for you and you can’t stop analyzing or replaying things in your head. If this sounds like you, then I can help. The truth is that there is so much potential within you! Therapy is a place for mental training where you can awaken true strength.
Do you struggle with fear? You might feel like you’re a shell of your old self after a traumatic event. Perhaps social settings might be really challenging because you feel so much anxiety. Or, it could be that one thing really scares you like clowns, blood, or airplanes. Or, maybe it looks like OCD for you and you can’t stop analyzing or replaying things in your head. If this sounds like you, then I can help. The truth is that there is so much potential within you! Therapy is a place for mental training where you can awaken true strength.
(770) 212-9604 View (770) 212-9604
Photo of Colleen Walsh, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC, CPCS
Colleen Walsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC, CPCS
Marietta, GA 30064
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma-focused clinician who incorporates Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Ego State work, psychodynamic principles, person-centered therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) into my work with clients.
Ready for a change? Navigating a difficult situation? Reaching out for help can be both scary and life-changing. I am here to assist people in healing what is holding them back.
I am a trauma-focused clinician who incorporates Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Ego State work, psychodynamic principles, person-centered therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) into my work with clients.
Ready for a change? Navigating a difficult situation? Reaching out for help can be both scary and life-changing. I am here to assist people in healing what is holding them back.
(770) 288-5773 View (770) 288-5773
Photo of Anne S. Mayfield, Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P
Anne S. Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P
Marietta, GA 30067
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction.
To learn about the effects of trauma and how they can be reversed and resolved, please visit my website at www.TraumaClearing.com .
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction.
To learn about the effects of trauma and how they can be reversed and resolved, please visit my website at www.TraumaClearing.com .
(404) 982-4403 View (404) 982-4403
Photo of Carol L Moore - Counseling Innovations, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
Counseling Innovations
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CHT
3 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I take a holistic approach to therapy by incorporating a variety of therapeutic modalities into my practice including CBT, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Imago Therapy, DBT, Mindfulness Based Therapy (i.e., meditation, guided imagery, deep breathing), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Animal Assisted Therapy.
I have particular expertise working with Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Eating Disorders, Attachment Issues, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I have extensive training in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy.
I take a holistic approach to therapy by incorporating a variety of therapeutic modalities into my practice including CBT, Trauma Focused-Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Family Systems Therapy, Imago Therapy, DBT, Mindfulness Based Therapy (i.e., meditation, guided imagery, deep breathing), Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Art Therapy, Sand Tray Therapy, and Animal Assisted Therapy.
I have particular expertise working with Trauma, PTSD, Sexual Abuse, Dissociative Identity Disorder, Eating Disorders, Attachment Issues, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum, Bipolar Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I have extensive training in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, Play Therapy, Animal-Assisted Therapy.
(678) 919-1077 View (678) 919-1077
Photo of Bethany Verbrugge, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bethany Verbrugge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30066
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and also use Sand Tray, Play Therapy and TraumaPlay, IFS, mindfulness and attachment focused strategies to empower and equip clients in their healing journey.
Going through trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or an eating disorder can feel very lonely and isolating. It’s common to believe no one truly understands what you're going through. I have worked with many people who have experienced tragedies and painful chapters in their lives, and perhaps you can relate to some of those overwhelming feelings. I'm here to tell you: you don't have to go through this alone. Whether you’re seeking a place to heal, explore painful memories, or receive support, there is strength in reaching out. I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.
I am an EMDR Certified Therapist and also use Sand Tray, Play Therapy and TraumaPlay, IFS, mindfulness and attachment focused strategies to empower and equip clients in their healing journey.
Going through trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or an eating disorder can feel very lonely and isolating. It’s common to believe no one truly understands what you're going through. I have worked with many people who have experienced tragedies and painful chapters in their lives, and perhaps you can relate to some of those overwhelming feelings. I'm here to tell you: you don't have to go through this alone. Whether you’re seeking a place to heal, explore painful memories, or receive support, there is strength in reaching out. I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.
(678) 326-4370 View (678) 326-4370
Photo of Sharon Burtzlaff - Renewed You Counseling - Sharon Burtzlaff, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Renewed You Counseling - Sharon Burtzlaff
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
12 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30066
I am trained in EMDR and my expertise is helping free people from the symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, codependency, bipolar disorder, communication issues, divorce & breakup recovery, and child and adolescent mood & behavior problems.
Do you want to feel Renewed? Are you currently feeling anxiety, panic attacks, depression, low self-esteem, getting angry easily, having issues with communication in your relationships, concerns about your kid's behavior, or just feeling overwhelmed and stressed out? Would you prefer to feel less anxiety and stress in daily life and more peace and confidence instead? I am Sharon, with Renewed You, and I would love to help! My mission is to come alongside you to give the tools needed to help change difficult experiences into opportunities for your personal growth so you can become an improved and Renewed You through the process!
I am trained in EMDR and my expertise is helping free people from the symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, codependency, bipolar disorder, communication issues, divorce & breakup recovery, and child and adolescent mood & behavior problems.
Do you want to feel Renewed? Are you currently feeling anxiety, panic attacks, depression, low self-esteem, getting angry easily, having issues with communication in your relationships, concerns about your kid's behavior, or just feeling overwhelmed and stressed out? Would you prefer to feel less anxiety and stress in daily life and more peace and confidence instead? I am Sharon, with Renewed You, and I would love to help! My mission is to come alongside you to give the tools needed to help change difficult experiences into opportunities for your personal growth so you can become an improved and Renewed You through the process!
(678) 661-2896 View (678) 661-2896
Photo of Kevin W Condon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Kevin W Condon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Marietta, GA 30067
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) in-person only.
Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change. If we want things to change, we have to take action consistent with achieving that change. Therapy can be an integral part of that action. Occasionally, past experiences and current life circumstances can have a negative impact on our mental health and lives in whole. We may fall into repetitive patterns that can become the 'unhealthy way we operate'. Acknowledging and addressing issues can be challenging and exciting at the same time, as we become more aware and progress towards desired change.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) in-person only.
Your life does not get better by chance, it gets better by change. If we want things to change, we have to take action consistent with achieving that change. Therapy can be an integral part of that action. Occasionally, past experiences and current life circumstances can have a negative impact on our mental health and lives in whole. We may fall into repetitive patterns that can become the 'unhealthy way we operate'. Acknowledging and addressing issues can be challenging and exciting at the same time, as we become more aware and progress towards desired change.
(678) 831-3327 View (678) 831-3327
Photo of Kimbro Henson Burnett - Kimbro Burnett Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC, NBCC
Kimbro Burnett Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, EdS, LPC, NBCC
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I use a deeply empathic, method of helping you connect to your own internal guiding system using a blend of talk therapy, Internal Family Systems and EMDR.
You have reached out because things are not working, you may be in emotional pain not knowing where to turn. I have solutions to help you move out of a place of feeling stuck to feeling free to move forward in your life path.
I use a deeply empathic, method of helping you connect to your own internal guiding system using a blend of talk therapy, Internal Family Systems and EMDR.
You have reached out because things are not working, you may be in emotional pain not knowing where to turn. I have solutions to help you move out of a place of feeling stuck to feeling free to move forward in your life path.
(678) 582-1021 View (678) 582-1021
Photo of Pamela Jules - Brain Synchrony & Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Brain Synchrony & Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
My approach combines CBT, humanistic psychology, trauma-focused therapy including EMDR, and Neurofeedback.
Trauma-focused therapy targets on moving out of past trauma that is disrupting current situations. The past is nothing that can be changed but the impact is what we work on together in order to create a better today in a safe space.
My approach combines CBT, humanistic psychology, trauma-focused therapy including EMDR, and Neurofeedback.
Trauma-focused therapy targets on moving out of past trauma that is disrupting current situations. The past is nothing that can be changed but the impact is what we work on together in order to create a better today in a safe space.
(678) 403-6054 View (678) 403-6054
Photo of Meghan Vogt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW(c)
Meghan Vogt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DSW(c)
Marietta, GA 30067
Athletes are often taught to push through discomfort, manage pressure quietly, and prioritize performance above all else. Over time, this can take a toll on mental health, identity, and overall well-being. My work focuses on helping athletes feel supported as whole people — not just performers. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and former NCAA Division I swimmer with over 15 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I founded Athlete Aligned to provide mental health support tailored to athletes and high-achieving individuals navigating performance pressure, anxiety, and identity concerns.
Athletes are often taught to push through discomfort, manage pressure quietly, and prioritize performance above all else. Over time, this can take a toll on mental health, identity, and overall well-being. My work focuses on helping athletes feel supported as whole people — not just performers. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and former NCAA Division I swimmer with over 15 years of experience working with adolescents and adults. I founded Athlete Aligned to provide mental health support tailored to athletes and high-achieving individuals navigating performance pressure, anxiety, and identity concerns.
(678) 922-4685 View (678) 922-4685
Photo of Bryon McDonald - Marietta Roswell Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Marietta Roswell Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Marietta, GA 30062
We use renown modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Aggressive Replacement Therapy (ART), ( EMDR) to name a few.
Feeling stressed, anxious, or wanting more of your life? We offer face to face & online sessions. MRC is a counseling office with male & female therapists offering individual, family & marriage therapy as well as support groups. We help individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, addictions to name a few & people looking into improving life situations & relationships. This includes marriage counseling, co-parenting, grief counseling, career counseling... Our philosophy is a client-centered approach with customized sessions based on your specific goals. Individual rates: $125 to $140. Family rates: $140 to $170.
We use renown modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance & Commitment Therapy (ACT), Aggressive Replacement Therapy (ART), ( EMDR) to name a few.
Feeling stressed, anxious, or wanting more of your life? We offer face to face & online sessions. MRC is a counseling office with male & female therapists offering individual, family & marriage therapy as well as support groups. We help individuals who struggle with depression, anxiety, addictions to name a few & people looking into improving life situations & relationships. This includes marriage counseling, co-parenting, grief counseling, career counseling... Our philosophy is a client-centered approach with customized sessions based on your specific goals. Individual rates: $125 to $140. Family rates: $140 to $170.
(404) 800-7078 View (404) 800-7078
Photo of Christie Wakefield, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT
Christie Wakefield
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30062
Using Trauma informed hypnotherapy, EMDR, Narrative and Gottman Couples Therapy, I work to support you in releasing barriers to fulfillment, opening the door to new possibilities, personal empowerment, and deeper relationships.
I bring extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children—including members of the LGBT community. Whether through reflective narrative work or Gottman-based interventions, I strive to create a welcoming and safe space where every client can explore and embrace their true potential.
Using Trauma informed hypnotherapy, EMDR, Narrative and Gottman Couples Therapy, I work to support you in releasing barriers to fulfillment, opening the door to new possibilities, personal empowerment, and deeper relationships.
I bring extensive experience working with individuals, couples, families, and children—including members of the LGBT community. Whether through reflective narrative work or Gottman-based interventions, I strive to create a welcoming and safe space where every client can explore and embrace their true potential.
(678) 607-8045 View (678) 607-8045
Photo of Keir Brady, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Keir Brady
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Marietta, GA 30062
I am trained in a number of different approaches including, EMDR, PRT, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life better and your relationships more fulfilling. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
I am trained in a number of different approaches including, EMDR, PRT, and Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy.
You are seeking a therapist because you want to make your life better and your relationships more fulfilling. You may feel discouraged and feel helpless as to how to improve things. The good news is that individual or couples therapy can help. Through therapy, I can help you free yourself from stress and struggle. Together we can work to heal your pain, create the relationships that you want, improve your self-esteem, and build a more fulfilling life. I can help you develop more compassion for your pain and be kinder to yourself so you can feel more hopeful about your life and relationships.
(404) 341-4163 View (404) 341-4163
Photo of Maryana Harrelson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Maryana Harrelson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30060
Waitlist for new clients
My approach is somatic and experiential, incorporating Gestalt therapy, EMDR, IFS, and Brainspotting.
Healing begins when we feel truly seen and accepted. In our work together, I provide a safe, compassionate space to explore difficult emotions, unresolved experiences, and the parts of you that may feel conflicted or stuck. I help clients release old burdens, strengthen self-trust, and reconnect with their natural capacity for growth. Therapy is not about fixing you — it is about helping you reconnect with who you truly are.
My approach is somatic and experiential, incorporating Gestalt therapy, EMDR, IFS, and Brainspotting.
Healing begins when we feel truly seen and accepted. In our work together, I provide a safe, compassionate space to explore difficult emotions, unresolved experiences, and the parts of you that may feel conflicted or stuck. I help clients release old burdens, strengthen self-trust, and reconnect with their natural capacity for growth. Therapy is not about fixing you — it is about helping you reconnect with who you truly are.
(770) 285-5825 View (770) 285-5825
Photo of Ali Dixon, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Ali Dixon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I tailor treatment to your specific goals by utilizing EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness among other evidence-based methods.
Through targeting the origin of your problems we can change behaviors and thought processes that are no longer serving you in your life. By fostering a connection between the mind and body, I will aid you in developing an updated understanding of yourself as well as a foundation of tools to maintain a balanced life.
I tailor treatment to your specific goals by utilizing EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and mindfulness among other evidence-based methods.
Through targeting the origin of your problems we can change behaviors and thought processes that are no longer serving you in your life. By fostering a connection between the mind and body, I will aid you in developing an updated understanding of yourself as well as a foundation of tools to maintain a balanced life.
(678) 658-3926 View (678) 658-3926
Photo of Rosse Mesa, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Rosse Mesa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I integrate treatment models that are trauma informed such as EMDR,IFS,Family Systems,Contextual Therapy and Sandtray Therapy
Are you in need of finding healing from traumatic experiences and memories that are still affecting you today? Do you recognize a pattern of feeling disconnected and not loving yourself? As your therapist I will support you and guide you to develop the skills to heal. I work with adults, adolescents and families as they explore how trauma has shaped and impacted their personality and their relationships. My work focuses on helping you heal trauma wounds and regain a sense of safety, wholeness and connection within yourself and with others. Through therapy I will provide you a safe space to develop a lifelong healing journey.
I integrate treatment models that are trauma informed such as EMDR,IFS,Family Systems,Contextual Therapy and Sandtray Therapy
Are you in need of finding healing from traumatic experiences and memories that are still affecting you today? Do you recognize a pattern of feeling disconnected and not loving yourself? As your therapist I will support you and guide you to develop the skills to heal. I work with adults, adolescents and families as they explore how trauma has shaped and impacted their personality and their relationships. My work focuses on helping you heal trauma wounds and regain a sense of safety, wholeness and connection within yourself and with others. Through therapy I will provide you a safe space to develop a lifelong healing journey.
(470) 412-8225 View (470) 412-8225

See more therapy options for Marietta

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.