EMDR Therapists in Elkin, NC

Photo of Jordan Gwyn Stoltzfus Parigi, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Jordan Gwyn Stoltzfus Parigi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MA
1 Endorsed
Elkin, NC 28621
EMDR sessions are 100, due to longer session time.
I am a Licensed Mental Health therapist in the state of North Carolina. I am actively accepting new patients and work with individuals that are 18 and older. Through my years of experience, I have learned to connect with a wide range of individuals that are experiencing symptoms such as: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD, and a wide range of other concerns and diagnosis. The main therapeutic approaches are: CBT, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing. I specialize in transitional times in life that raise a sense of uncertainty and begin to create a foundation with the client that creates a sense of stability.
EMDR sessions are 100, due to longer session time.
I am a Licensed Mental Health therapist in the state of North Carolina. I am actively accepting new patients and work with individuals that are 18 and older. Through my years of experience, I have learned to connect with a wide range of individuals that are experiencing symptoms such as: Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar, PTSD, and a wide range of other concerns and diagnosis. The main therapeutic approaches are: CBT, ACT, and Motivational Interviewing. I specialize in transitional times in life that raise a sense of uncertainty and begin to create a foundation with the client that creates a sense of stability.
(336) 606-3889 View (336) 606-3889
Photo of Robert Willis - CareNet Counseling Northwest Region, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LCAS, LCSWA
CareNet Counseling Northwest Region
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LCAS, LCSWA
Elkin, NC 28621
CareNet Counseling improves the health of the mind, body, spirit and community through spiritually-integrated counseling, psychotherapy, research and education. We are here to help our clients restore and maintain mental wellness. There is no real health without mental health.
CareNet Counseling improves the health of the mind, body, spirit and community through spiritually-integrated counseling, psychotherapy, research and education. We are here to help our clients restore and maintain mental wellness. There is no real health without mental health.
(336) 844-4494 View (336) 844-4494
Photo of Robert Milan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Robert Milan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Elkin, NC 28621
I have been trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, incuding cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic therapies, EMDR, and mindfulness approaches to therapy.
Rather than follow any strict treatment protocol, I use my training and experience, as well as input from the client to design a treatment plan tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
I have been trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities, incuding cognitive behavioral therapy, humanistic therapies, EMDR, and mindfulness approaches to therapy.
Rather than follow any strict treatment protocol, I use my training and experience, as well as input from the client to design a treatment plan tailored to the unique needs of each individual.
(336) 310-5648 View (336) 310-5648
Photo of Amber Glasco Dillard - Upward Call Counseling PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Upward Call Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
With specialized training in EMDR and TF-CBT, Amber provides trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy for those facing anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions.
Accepting New Clients-Amber is a compassionate Christian counselor who helps individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, stress, and life transitions. Many of her clients feel overwhelmed by relationship challenges, past wounds, or personal struggles and seek a safe, faith-based therapy approach to healing. Through a combination of evidence-based techniques and Christian counseling, Amber helps clients build resilience, regain confidence, and find peace in their personal and relational lives. She provides individual therapy tailored to each person's needs, fostering growth, emotional well-being, and healing.
With specialized training in EMDR and TF-CBT, Amber provides trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy for those facing anxiety, depression, grief, and life transitions.
Accepting New Clients-Amber is a compassionate Christian counselor who helps individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, stress, and life transitions. Many of her clients feel overwhelmed by relationship challenges, past wounds, or personal struggles and seek a safe, faith-based therapy approach to healing. Through a combination of evidence-based techniques and Christian counseling, Amber helps clients build resilience, regain confidence, and find peace in their personal and relational lives. She provides individual therapy tailored to each person's needs, fostering growth, emotional well-being, and healing.
(980) 577-2687 View (980) 577-2687
Photo of Hannah Bodes, Counselor, LCMHCA, MA
Hannah Bodes
Counselor, LCMHCA, MA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I believe that we can reprocess that trauma by utilizing EMDR.
I believe everyone can benefit from seeing a therapist at any given point in their life. Whether you have anxiety, depression, are facing life transitions, or any obstacle that life may throw your way, I want to walk with you to overcome it. It can be scary to open up to anyone about your struggles! I understand this and truly feel honored to provide a space where you can feel safe to share your struggles and be open to growth and healing. I do not judge nor give advice, but do challenge ways of thinking to encourage growth.
I believe that we can reprocess that trauma by utilizing EMDR.
I believe everyone can benefit from seeing a therapist at any given point in their life. Whether you have anxiety, depression, are facing life transitions, or any obstacle that life may throw your way, I want to walk with you to overcome it. It can be scary to open up to anyone about your struggles! I understand this and truly feel honored to provide a space where you can feel safe to share your struggles and be open to growth and healing. I do not judge nor give advice, but do challenge ways of thinking to encourage growth.
(704) 800-0596 View (704) 800-0596
Photo of Ashley Hamby, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Ashley Hamby
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Serves Area
EMDR is a core foundation of my work, and you can learn more about that on my website.
Everyone thinks you have it together. People would never guess how much you're struggling, or how your brain NEVER shuts off. You're replaying conversations, overthinking everything, carrying everyone else's emotional baggage, and wondering why you can't seem to relax. You're exhausted, but slowing down somehow feels harder than keeping busy. You learned how to survive long before you knew how to rest. If you're reading this and feel like this is you... you're in the right place.
EMDR is a core foundation of my work, and you can learn more about that on my website.
Everyone thinks you have it together. People would never guess how much you're struggling, or how your brain NEVER shuts off. You're replaying conversations, overthinking everything, carrying everyone else's emotional baggage, and wondering why you can't seem to relax. You're exhausted, but slowing down somehow feels harder than keeping busy. You learned how to survive long before you knew how to rest. If you're reading this and feel like this is you... you're in the right place.
(336) 502-2166 View (336) 502-2166

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Stephanie Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Stephanie Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Online Only
In addition to CBT, I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills, Motivational Interviewing and offer EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist licensed in North Carolina with over 9 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and compassionate. I believe in treating anyone with respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I am also trained and offer EMDR.
In addition to CBT, I utilize Dialectical Behavioral Therapy skills, Motivational Interviewing and offer EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist licensed in North Carolina with over 9 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and substance use disorders. I also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse. My counseling style is warm and compassionate. I believe in treating anyone with respect. My approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy and motivational interviewing. I am also trained and offer EMDR.
(252) 297-6106 View (252) 297-6106
Photo of Whitney B Smith, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
Whitney B Smith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LPC
1 Endorsed
Mount Airy, NC 27030
My areas of competence include attachment, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, codependency, boundary issues, anxiety, depression, grief, childhood trauma and abuse.
I am currently a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina and a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virginia. To date, my clinical experience includes community mental health as a site supervisor of a school-based mental health program, a clinical trainer at the Center for Counselor Education and Family Studies at Liberty University, and as an outpatient therapist in two different practice. My experience in the community, private, and academic sectors has allowed me to work with a variety of clinical issues.
My areas of competence include attachment, complex post-traumatic stress disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, EMDR, somatic psychotherapy, codependency, boundary issues, anxiety, depression, grief, childhood trauma and abuse.
I am currently a licensed clinical mental health counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina and a licensed professional counselor (LPC) in Virginia. To date, my clinical experience includes community mental health as a site supervisor of a school-based mental health program, a clinical trainer at the Center for Counselor Education and Family Studies at Liberty University, and as an outpatient therapist in two different practice. My experience in the community, private, and academic sectors has allowed me to work with a variety of clinical issues.
(336) 347-4538 View (336) 347-4538
Photo of Amy Trinkle, Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Amy Trinkle
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Serves Area
I am trained in EMDR, and can support your healing from trauma or distressing life experiences.
Life! It can be so hard. You feel like the walls are closing in on you and you can't breathe. You are struggling with worry, anxiety, and feelings of being overwhelmed. You have a never-ending to do list. You are always worried about your children. You are struggling to do everything for everyone, and you do not feel like you are enough. Or maybe you are going through a significant life transition, moving to college, career change, divorce. You know that you can't continue this life path, and you are ready to reach out for help. You are ready to move towards a happier, healthier life.
I am trained in EMDR, and can support your healing from trauma or distressing life experiences.
Life! It can be so hard. You feel like the walls are closing in on you and you can't breathe. You are struggling with worry, anxiety, and feelings of being overwhelmed. You have a never-ending to do list. You are always worried about your children. You are struggling to do everything for everyone, and you do not feel like you are enough. Or maybe you are going through a significant life transition, moving to college, career change, divorce. You know that you can't continue this life path, and you are ready to reach out for help. You are ready to move towards a happier, healthier life.
(336) 962-2505 View (336) 962-2505
Photo of Melinda Snyder, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHCS
Melinda Snyder
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, LCMHCS
Serves Area
I am a Trauma Specialist trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, QHHT, IFS, and Trauma Therapy and specialize in PTSD, ADHD, anxiety and depression with over 15 years of experience assisting clients to a state of well-being, growth, and wholeness.
Latest research has shown that we "stuck" in our core beliefs that have been ingrained in us since childhood. We've all tried to "think" our way out of anxiety or depression and have failed. EMDR bypasses the "thinking" part of the brain and works directly on the "feeling" part to integrate healthy beliefs about one's self and bring about peace.
I am a Trauma Specialist trained in EMDR, Hypnotherapy, QHHT, IFS, and Trauma Therapy and specialize in PTSD, ADHD, anxiety and depression with over 15 years of experience assisting clients to a state of well-being, growth, and wholeness.
Latest research has shown that we "stuck" in our core beliefs that have been ingrained in us since childhood. We've all tried to "think" our way out of anxiety or depression and have failed. EMDR bypasses the "thinking" part of the brain and works directly on the "feeling" part to integrate healthy beliefs about one's self and bring about peace.
(336) 360-6452 View (336) 360-6452
Photo of Jessica Cooper, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA Ed, LCMHC, NCC
Jessica Cooper
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA Ed, LCMHC, NCC
Mount Airy, NC 27030
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and include other interventions as needed.
Clients may strive for improved communication and conflict-resolution skills, processing of traumatic events, healthier thoughts/behaviors, coping skills for various life stressors, etc.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and include other interventions as needed.
Clients may strive for improved communication and conflict-resolution skills, processing of traumatic events, healthier thoughts/behaviors, coping skills for various life stressors, etc.
(743) 212-7155 View (743) 212-7155
Photo of Angela Wooten, Counselor, MA, LCHMC, NCC
Angela Wooten
Counselor, MA, LCHMC, NCC
Serves Area
Having been trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Angela has a passion for working with individuals who have experienced traumatic life events.
She is dedicated to helping others see themselves in a positive light and teaching skills to assist individuals with becoming the best version of themselves. In her free time, Angela enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She also loves being outdoors, playing with her dog, and hiking whenever she can.
Having been trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Angela has a passion for working with individuals who have experienced traumatic life events.
She is dedicated to helping others see themselves in a positive light and teaching skills to assist individuals with becoming the best version of themselves. In her free time, Angela enjoys spending time with her family and friends. She also loves being outdoors, playing with her dog, and hiking whenever she can.
(704) 610-5783 View (704) 610-5783
Photo of Melissa Casstevens, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Melissa Casstevens
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Online Only
I am also trained in TF-CBT, EMDR, and offer EMDR intensives, when appropriate to your situation.
If you’ve ever felt different, misunderstood, or like you don’t quite fit the mold, you’re in the right place. I’m not your cookie-cutter therapist. I’m a little quirky myself and believe therapy should feel real, not rigid. I offer an open, nonjudgmental space where you can show up exactly as you are. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or don’t know where to start, we’ll take it step by step, at your pace, so therapy feels manageable and supportive. I work with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life stress, and major transitions, including those who feel too much or too different.
I am also trained in TF-CBT, EMDR, and offer EMDR intensives, when appropriate to your situation.
If you’ve ever felt different, misunderstood, or like you don’t quite fit the mold, you’re in the right place. I’m not your cookie-cutter therapist. I’m a little quirky myself and believe therapy should feel real, not rigid. I offer an open, nonjudgmental space where you can show up exactly as you are. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or don’t know where to start, we’ll take it step by step, at your pace, so therapy feels manageable and supportive. I work with individuals navigating trauma, anxiety, depression, life stress, and major transitions, including those who feel too much or too different.
(336) 569-4340 View (336) 569-4340
Photo of Elissa M Schroeder, Psychologist, PhD
Elissa M Schroeder
Psychologist, PhD
Serves Area
I'm trained and certified (Level II) in EMDR and DNMS, trauma-based treatments for people whose developmental needs were not met as children.
Although there is no formal "sliding scale", I can sometimes offer hardship discounts to established patients, or those actively engaged in volunteer and/or self-help programs. I do not generally offer free initial sessions or lengthy telephone consults, but I am happy to return messages to discuss your questions about therapy and this practice.
I'm trained and certified (Level II) in EMDR and DNMS, trauma-based treatments for people whose developmental needs were not met as children.
Although there is no formal "sliding scale", I can sometimes offer hardship discounts to established patients, or those actively engaged in volunteer and/or self-help programs. I do not generally offer free initial sessions or lengthy telephone consults, but I am happy to return messages to discuss your questions about therapy and this practice.
(336) 891-0967 View (336) 891-0967
Photo of Laura Pond - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Cary, Counselor
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(919) 823-3491 View (919) 823-3491
Photo of Dallas E Johnson Jr - Aspen Mental Health Therapy and Consulting, PLLC, Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, NCC, CCTP
Aspen Mental Health Therapy and Consulting, PLLC
Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, NCC, CCTP
3 Endorsed
Ronda, NC 28670
Aspen is enabling individuals, from all walks of life, to accomplish mental health, wellness, educational, spiritual and career goals. We specialize in helping individuals and families during the tough times. We have extensive training in the treatment of PTSD and trauma associated disorders for adults, adolescents, and children (including pre-school age). In addition to trauma, we specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, and chronic childhood behaviors. For more information, or to set up a new client appointment, visit aspenmentalhealth.com and click on "Let's Talk."
Aspen is enabling individuals, from all walks of life, to accomplish mental health, wellness, educational, spiritual and career goals. We specialize in helping individuals and families during the tough times. We have extensive training in the treatment of PTSD and trauma associated disorders for adults, adolescents, and children (including pre-school age). In addition to trauma, we specialize in ADHD, Depression, Anxiety, Panic, OCD, and chronic childhood behaviors. For more information, or to set up a new client appointment, visit aspenmentalhealth.com and click on "Let's Talk."
(336) 396-7837 View (336) 396-7837
Photo of Alistair Burke, Counselor, LCMHC-A, NCC
Alistair Burke
Counselor, LCMHC-A, NCC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Through EMDR and equine-informed therapy, I help clients move beyond talk therapy into deeper experiential healing.
My clients are thoughtful, resilient and often creative individuals navigating the challenges of substance use, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Many come feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, yet carry a deep desire for healing and change. Together, we create a space of safety, curiosity, and compassion—where emotions can be understood, patterns can shift, and new possibilities for peace, self-trust, and meaning can begin to emerge.
Through EMDR and equine-informed therapy, I help clients move beyond talk therapy into deeper experiential healing.
My clients are thoughtful, resilient and often creative individuals navigating the challenges of substance use, grief, trauma, anxiety, and depression. Many come feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or disconnected, yet carry a deep desire for healing and change. Together, we create a space of safety, curiosity, and compassion—where emotions can be understood, patterns can shift, and new possibilities for peace, self-trust, and meaning can begin to emerge.
(828) 518-1364 View (828) 518-1364
Photo of Elizabeth Brunson, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MDiv, MS/EdS, LCMHC, NCC, EMDRI
Elizabeth Brunson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MDiv, MS/EdS, LCMHC, NCC, EMDRI
Serves Area
Applying emotionally focused therapy to restore a partner/family relationship, cognitive behavioral +mind/body approaches to change thinking/improve your mood, or using EMDR or Brainspotting to resolve trauma and its effects, we discover together ways to MEND your mind, body and spirit.
Losses, whether "typical" and acknowledged by others, or invalidated and borne in isolation, can hinder your ability to live fully. I help individuals navigate transitions, face challenges, and heal from the pain of relational disappointments. I help persons to courageously face depression or anxiety, and to resiliently heal from trauma.
Applying emotionally focused therapy to restore a partner/family relationship, cognitive behavioral +mind/body approaches to change thinking/improve your mood, or using EMDR or Brainspotting to resolve trauma and its effects, we discover together ways to MEND your mind, body and spirit.
Losses, whether "typical" and acknowledged by others, or invalidated and borne in isolation, can hinder your ability to live fully. I help individuals navigate transitions, face challenges, and heal from the pain of relational disappointments. I help persons to courageously face depression or anxiety, and to resiliently heal from trauma.
(919) 648-0547 View (919) 648-0547
Photo of Gabriel Paul Guynn, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Gabriel Paul Guynn
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LMHCA
Serves Area
My practice is person-centered therapy (Rogerian), and also draws from Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Part-Work, and EMDR as needed.
My name is Gabriel Guynn, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate at Affinity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC. I am under the supervision of Susannah Cecil, LCMHCS. I believe that good therapy is made through cooperation between therapist and client(s) and only occurs in a safe space where clients feel heard and seen. I also believe the client is the primary voice in the room, and our goal is to empower clients to shape their own journey.
My practice is person-centered therapy (Rogerian), and also draws from Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, Somatic Therapy, Part-Work, and EMDR as needed.
My name is Gabriel Guynn, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate at Affinity Counseling & Wellness, PLLC. I am under the supervision of Susannah Cecil, LCMHCS. I believe that good therapy is made through cooperation between therapist and client(s) and only occurs in a safe space where clients feel heard and seen. I also believe the client is the primary voice in the room, and our goal is to empower clients to shape their own journey.
(336) 537-9718 View (336) 537-9718
Photo of Valencia Sandersdavis - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chapel Hill, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chapel Hill
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Serves Area
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(919) 200-6174 View (919) 200-6174

See more therapy options for Elkin

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.