EMDR Therapists in Goldsboro, NC

Photo of Michael Lamont Headen - Tides Counseling/Wellness, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, CCSOTS, EMDR
Tides Counseling/Wellness
Verified Verified
Goldsboro, NC 27534
I am a EMDR therapist utilizing both CBT and DBT as well to help individuals work through trauma, addictions, or marital difficulties.
Immediate openings for any and all clients. Struggling from time to time with anxiety, depressed moods, anger outburst, unsure of self worth, identity issues, marital conflict, communication issues. Overcoming addictions that have impacted their lives and loved ones. Personal growth and enhancing self-worth, overcoming doubt of one's abilities. Developing a more healthy outlook in life and striving to be a more fully functioning caring human being. Trying to recover or not relapse back to a previous addiction. Issues with trauma or trauma related issues. I offer clinical supervision for both LCMHCA and LCAS-A individuals as needed
I am a EMDR therapist utilizing both CBT and DBT as well to help individuals work through trauma, addictions, or marital difficulties.
Immediate openings for any and all clients. Struggling from time to time with anxiety, depressed moods, anger outburst, unsure of self worth, identity issues, marital conflict, communication issues. Overcoming addictions that have impacted their lives and loved ones. Personal growth and enhancing self-worth, overcoming doubt of one's abilities. Developing a more healthy outlook in life and striving to be a more fully functioning caring human being. Trying to recover or not relapse back to a previous addiction. Issues with trauma or trauma related issues. I offer clinical supervision for both LCMHCA and LCAS-A individuals as needed
(336) 332-2277 View (336) 332-2277
Photo of Stacia Marie Harlan, Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Stacia Marie Harlan
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Goldsboro, NC 27530
In 2020 I received training in EMDR.
My heart has always been drawn to helping and encouraging others. My desire and passion is working with children, adolescents, and women who are going through life challenges or have experienced events in their past that need to be brought to the surface so that true, lasting healing can occur. I believe that the most important aspect of counseling is my relationship with the client and that is my main focus with my clients. I am currently accepting BCBS, Med Cost, and self pay If you are interested in my services, please call me so that we can discuss fees.
In 2020 I received training in EMDR.
My heart has always been drawn to helping and encouraging others. My desire and passion is working with children, adolescents, and women who are going through life challenges or have experienced events in their past that need to be brought to the surface so that true, lasting healing can occur. I believe that the most important aspect of counseling is my relationship with the client and that is my main focus with my clients. I am currently accepting BCBS, Med Cost, and self pay If you are interested in my services, please call me so that we can discuss fees.
(984) 205-9340 View (984) 205-9340
Photo of Kelly Hamilton, Counselor, LMHC
Kelly Hamilton
Counselor, LMHC
Online Only
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, EMDR, and Strength-Based modalities in my therapies.
I am an active and empathetic listener. My communication style is warm, direct, and nonjudgmental. I'll bring along genuine compassion, skill, laughter, and the occasional bad joke while honoring the seriousness of your work and the courage to seek help. I will provide a safe and caring environment for you in this journey you seek towards wellness.
I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), Eclectic, EMDR, and Strength-Based modalities in my therapies.
I am an active and empathetic listener. My communication style is warm, direct, and nonjudgmental. I'll bring along genuine compassion, skill, laughter, and the occasional bad joke while honoring the seriousness of your work and the courage to seek help. I will provide a safe and caring environment for you in this journey you seek towards wellness.
(803) 887-3541 View (803) 887-3541
Photo of Kerin E Cornett, Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Kerin E Cornett
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Serves Area
I hold an additional certification in EMDR.
Navigating life's journey can be overwhelming. For over twenty years, it has been my privilege to meet people where they are and partner with them in difficult seasons. It is my experience that having someone to share your burdens can often provide healing and the courage to seek physical, mental, and spiritual wellness.
I hold an additional certification in EMDR.
Navigating life's journey can be overwhelming. For over twenty years, it has been my privilege to meet people where they are and partner with them in difficult seasons. It is my experience that having someone to share your burdens can often provide healing and the courage to seek physical, mental, and spiritual wellness.
(919) 799-2265 View (919) 799-2265
Photo of Lisa H Butler, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Lisa H Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I often use EMDR in my practice, in your first session, we'll explore what brought you to therapy and then then decide the most appropriate ways to help you make progress.
My approach as a therapist is to meet you where you are at, look at where you want to go, and help you heal from the hindrances keeping you from getting to where you want to go. This process is about you and what you need to be successful in this life. I believe everyone is born with what they need to move forward in their purpose in this life. Unfortunetly, sometimes people, places, situations, and things get in the way of that, that is what I want to help you with, identifying those things and helping you develop positive coping skills to overcome the obstacles of life.
I often use EMDR in my practice, in your first session, we'll explore what brought you to therapy and then then decide the most appropriate ways to help you make progress.
My approach as a therapist is to meet you where you are at, look at where you want to go, and help you heal from the hindrances keeping you from getting to where you want to go. This process is about you and what you need to be successful in this life. I believe everyone is born with what they need to move forward in their purpose in this life. Unfortunetly, sometimes people, places, situations, and things get in the way of that, that is what I want to help you with, identifying those things and helping you develop positive coping skills to overcome the obstacles of life.
(252) 262-6777 View (252) 262-6777
Photo of Nicole Wagoner, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ASDCS
Nicole Wagoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, ASDCS
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am currently working on my EMDR training hours (children, adolescents, and adults).
Hi! My name is Nicole. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor working at Ocean's Crest Counseling Center, PLLC in New Bern, NC. We are accepting new clients with BCBS, United Healthcare, Tricare, United Healthcare Community Plan, and Healthy Blue, Amerihealth, and Wellcare. I am certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. I have experience with a variety of mental health diagnoses. I have experience working with children, young adults, and military with a variety of mental health diagnoses. Some of these diagnoses have included PTSD, anxiety, depression, ODD, ADHD, and Conduct Disorder.
I am currently working on my EMDR training hours (children, adolescents, and adults).
Hi! My name is Nicole. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor working at Ocean's Crest Counseling Center, PLLC in New Bern, NC. We are accepting new clients with BCBS, United Healthcare, Tricare, United Healthcare Community Plan, and Healthy Blue, Amerihealth, and Wellcare. I am certified as an Autism Spectrum Disorder Clinical Specialist. I have experience with a variety of mental health diagnoses. I have experience working with children, young adults, and military with a variety of mental health diagnoses. Some of these diagnoses have included PTSD, anxiety, depression, ODD, ADHD, and Conduct Disorder.
(252) 765-4397 View (252) 765-4397
Photo of Christine Sande - First-Aid Counseling, PLLC, Counselor, LCMHC
First-Aid Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LCMHC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Our team, led by an EMDR-trained therapist, offers virtual sessions tailored to your needs.
Our counseling team supports adults, teens, couples, and the LGBTQIA+ community. We address relationship issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, bipolar disorder, addiction, and more. Led by a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and EMDR-trained therapist, we offer personalized, compassionate care to guide your healing and growth.
Our team, led by an EMDR-trained therapist, offers virtual sessions tailored to your needs.
Our counseling team supports adults, teens, couples, and the LGBTQIA+ community. We address relationship issues, anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, BPD, bipolar disorder, addiction, and more. Led by a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional and EMDR-trained therapist, we offer personalized, compassionate care to guide your healing and growth.
(919) 887-6104 View (919) 887-6104
Photo of Angela H Small - Carolina Wellness and Counseling, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Carolina Wellness and Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Serves Area
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Life can feel overwhelming at times, but you do not have to navigate it alone. By diving deeper into the root cause of unhealthy thoughts and behaviors, I help clients create new, cohesive, and healthy neural pathways to heal both mind and body. Parts Work is often integrated into the process, as it allows clients to address and rewrite the unhealthy scripts, coping mechanisms, and behaviors that were created as a result of past experiences and internal conflict. My specialties include: PTSD, trauma/abuse, anxiety, ADHD, depression, attachment wounds, and grief.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Life can feel overwhelming at times, but you do not have to navigate it alone. By diving deeper into the root cause of unhealthy thoughts and behaviors, I help clients create new, cohesive, and healthy neural pathways to heal both mind and body. Parts Work is often integrated into the process, as it allows clients to address and rewrite the unhealthy scripts, coping mechanisms, and behaviors that were created as a result of past experiences and internal conflict. My specialties include: PTSD, trauma/abuse, anxiety, ADHD, depression, attachment wounds, and grief.
(252) 397-4603 View (252) 397-4603
Photo of Alana Pipkin, LCMHCA, MA
Alana Pipkin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I draw from several approaches, tailoring them to your unique needs including CBT, EMDR, and Expressive Arts.
Hi, I’m Alana! I believe growth doesn’t have to be scary, and that laughter can be one of the best coping skills in the room. I work with adolescents and adults, supporting them as they discover their strengths, meet their goals, and build lives that feel authentic and fulfilling. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where connection and change can thrive. Therapy with me is equal parts encouragement, honesty, and a dash of humor.
I draw from several approaches, tailoring them to your unique needs including CBT, EMDR, and Expressive Arts.
Hi, I’m Alana! I believe growth doesn’t have to be scary, and that laughter can be one of the best coping skills in the room. I work with adolescents and adults, supporting them as they discover their strengths, meet their goals, and build lives that feel authentic and fulfilling. My goal is to create a safe, welcoming space where connection and change can thrive. Therapy with me is equal parts encouragement, honesty, and a dash of humor.
(252) 651-6353 View (252) 651-6353
Photo of Venita Wiley Wright-Blake, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Venita Wiley Wright-Blake
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am EMDR Trained working toward EMDR Certification.
First, congratulations on taking the first step toward healing. Recognizing a problem is the first step toward finding solutions. Depression, anxiety, insecurity, fear, doubt and other feelings can weigh you down. These feelings can stem from trauma such as any form of abuse, neglect, domestic violence, infertility, divorce, loss of loved ones, medical problems, and other forms of trauma. You want change and need someone to help. You need a partner that understands and will walk with you on the journey of growth and healing. You have made the first step and you are ready to take the next. How do you get your life back?
I am EMDR Trained working toward EMDR Certification.
First, congratulations on taking the first step toward healing. Recognizing a problem is the first step toward finding solutions. Depression, anxiety, insecurity, fear, doubt and other feelings can weigh you down. These feelings can stem from trauma such as any form of abuse, neglect, domestic violence, infertility, divorce, loss of loved ones, medical problems, and other forms of trauma. You want change and need someone to help. You need a partner that understands and will walk with you on the journey of growth and healing. You have made the first step and you are ready to take the next. How do you get your life back?
(252) 582-6241 View (252) 582-6241
Photo of Nicole Bauer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC
Nicole Bauer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC
Goldsboro, NC 27534
Not accepting new clients
My passion in life has always been to help and encourage others. Regardless of where you're at or what you're dealing with, there is always a way to overcome the obstacles life puts in your way. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, marital distress or any other life impacting situation, I can help. I am extensively trained in marriage and family therapy and I specialize in working with adolescents, teens and adults dealing with ADHD, anxiety and depression.
My passion in life has always been to help and encourage others. Regardless of where you're at or what you're dealing with, there is always a way to overcome the obstacles life puts in your way. If you are dealing with anxiety, depression, ADHD, marital distress or any other life impacting situation, I can help. I am extensively trained in marriage and family therapy and I specialize in working with adolescents, teens and adults dealing with ADHD, anxiety and depression.
(919) 634-6095 View (919) 634-6095
Photo of Lauren Sadler-Cannada, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Lauren Sadler-Cannada
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
I utilize techniques from both EMDR and Trauma-Focused CBT to assist in processing past traumas, reducing distress, and developing adaptive beliefs to move forward without being controlled by your past.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing outpatient therapy virtually and in-person. I entered this profession with my own trauma history that has informed my therapeutic approach, and I strive to create a space where others can share their experiences. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults living with trauma, anxiety, depression, and family relationship challenges. Outside of the therapy office, I have experience working with adolescents, families, and older adults within the child/adult welfare systems, as well as with family members of individuals battling addiction.
I utilize techniques from both EMDR and Trauma-Focused CBT to assist in processing past traumas, reducing distress, and developing adaptive beliefs to move forward without being controlled by your past.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing outpatient therapy virtually and in-person. I entered this profession with my own trauma history that has informed my therapeutic approach, and I strive to create a space where others can share their experiences. I specialize in working with adolescents, young adults, and adults living with trauma, anxiety, depression, and family relationship challenges. Outside of the therapy office, I have experience working with adolescents, families, and older adults within the child/adult welfare systems, as well as with family members of individuals battling addiction.
(919) 343-9665 View (919) 343-9665

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Madison Clair Webb, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Madison Clair Webb
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Wilson, NC 27896
Madison desires to foster an atmosphere of safety and free of judgment. Her passion is her clients: walking alongside of them, serving them, and empowering them to make healthy decisions for themselves. Her engaging personality, gentle nature, and calm demeanor creates a safe environment where trust is built through genuine honesty and authenticity. She desires to foster an atmosphere of safety and free of judgment.
Madison desires to foster an atmosphere of safety and free of judgment. Her passion is her clients: walking alongside of them, serving them, and empowering them to make healthy decisions for themselves. Her engaging personality, gentle nature, and calm demeanor creates a safe environment where trust is built through genuine honesty and authenticity. She desires to foster an atmosphere of safety and free of judgment.
(252) 642-6506 View (252) 642-6506
Photo of Danielle Evans, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
Danielle Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am also trained in EMDR to provide additional support for individuals interested in this service and in a good space to begin or continue their healing journey.
Beginning therapy can be the most vulnerable and brave step a person can take towards getting the help they deserve. It can also be overwhelming to think of opening up to a new therapist about one’s innermost challenges, and that is why I strive to provide all my clients with a safe and affirming space. I believe that change is best facilitated by learning to validate, acknowledge, and attune to your emotions, increasing emotional vulnerability with yourself and others, and tracking patterns in current relationships to help you understand how to work towards healing past wounds and nurture the change you want to see in your life.
I am also trained in EMDR to provide additional support for individuals interested in this service and in a good space to begin or continue their healing journey.
Beginning therapy can be the most vulnerable and brave step a person can take towards getting the help they deserve. It can also be overwhelming to think of opening up to a new therapist about one’s innermost challenges, and that is why I strive to provide all my clients with a safe and affirming space. I believe that change is best facilitated by learning to validate, acknowledge, and attune to your emotions, increasing emotional vulnerability with yourself and others, and tracking patterns in current relationships to help you understand how to work towards healing past wounds and nurture the change you want to see in your life.
(252) 429-5541 View (252) 429-5541
Photo of Paula A. Lavocat, Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, NCC
Paula A. Lavocat
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, NCC
3 Endorsed
Wilson, NC 27893
She is an EMDRIA certified EMDR Therapist and Approved Consultant offering EMDR Consultation, and EMDR training facilitator with Institute for Creative Mindfulness.
If you’ve had difficulty finding therapy that is effective, you may want to consider working with a specialist. Traumatic or adverse life experiences may lead to a myriad of psychological and physiological symptoms. Treatment areas: General mental health, dissociation, trauma and PTSD (C-PTSD), adult ADHD, weight/obesity, bariatric surgery support, chemical and behavioral addiction. Specialty populations include military and first responders. Our practice welcomes adolescents and adults. We are proud to have the ability to meet needs of clients from many backgrounds and belief systems with our diverse group of clinicians.
She is an EMDRIA certified EMDR Therapist and Approved Consultant offering EMDR Consultation, and EMDR training facilitator with Institute for Creative Mindfulness.
If you’ve had difficulty finding therapy that is effective, you may want to consider working with a specialist. Traumatic or adverse life experiences may lead to a myriad of psychological and physiological symptoms. Treatment areas: General mental health, dissociation, trauma and PTSD (C-PTSD), adult ADHD, weight/obesity, bariatric surgery support, chemical and behavioral addiction. Specialty populations include military and first responders. Our practice welcomes adolescents and adults. We are proud to have the ability to meet needs of clients from many backgrounds and belief systems with our diverse group of clinicians.
(919) 739-4321 View (919) 739-4321
Photo of Mytajha Rascoe Freeman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Mytajha Rascoe Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
If you are dealing with stressful life changes, relationship difficulties, or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you on your path to healing and self-discovery. Together, we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop strategies that promote resilience and fulfillment. I like to think of therapy as an individual journey so I employ a range of techniques to address the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of each client. Each session is tailored to help you gain greater insight into yourself to lead to the fulfilling and healthy life you want. I am currently accepting new clients!
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution-Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) and Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy.
If you are dealing with stressful life changes, relationship difficulties, or seeking personal growth, I am here to support you on your path to healing and self-discovery. Together, we can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and develop strategies that promote resilience and fulfillment. I like to think of therapy as an individual journey so I employ a range of techniques to address the emotional, psychological, and social aspects of each client. Each session is tailored to help you gain greater insight into yourself to lead to the fulfilling and healthy life you want. I am currently accepting new clients!
(252) 640-2493 View (252) 640-2493
Photo of Kinsey Womble, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kinsey Womble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Wilson, NC 27896
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), & TF-CBT.
If you are ready to gain insight into the why and make lasting changes, I am ready to go on that journey with you! Trauma can look and feel differently from person to person. We have all had experiences that shape us. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages but specialize in teenagers/families and young adults who have may be struggling with coping with emotions, building or maintaining relationships or parenting. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to see and experience personal growth within themselves
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), & TF-CBT.
If you are ready to gain insight into the why and make lasting changes, I am ready to go on that journey with you! Trauma can look and feel differently from person to person. We have all had experiences that shape us. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages but specialize in teenagers/families and young adults who have may be struggling with coping with emotions, building or maintaining relationships or parenting. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to see and experience personal growth within themselves
(252) 651-5776 View (252) 651-5776
Photo of Kendrick Burden, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kendrick Burden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
My approach blends evidence-based tools such as EMDR, CBT, and ACT with compassionate, faith-based support when desired.
Together, we’ll identify what’s been holding you back and chart a new path grounded in your values and strengths. My hope is to help you feel more anchored, more empowered, and more at peace with the life you’re creating.
My approach blends evidence-based tools such as EMDR, CBT, and ACT with compassionate, faith-based support when desired.
Together, we’ll identify what’s been holding you back and chart a new path grounded in your values and strengths. My hope is to help you feel more anchored, more empowered, and more at peace with the life you’re creating.
(252) 550-4358 View (252) 550-4358
Photo of Sallie Ratcliffe Eggleston, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CRC
Sallie Ratcliffe Eggleston
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, CRC
Wilson, NC 27896
I’m also trained in EMDR, which can be especially helpful for processing difficult or overwhelming experiences.
Accepting New Clients! I’m glad you’re here. Finding the right therapist can make all the difference, and I place a strong emphasis on building a genuine, supportive relationship from the start. I offer a collaborative, structured approach to therapy, helping you develop practical skills while also working through the deeper patterns, beliefs, and thought processes that may be holding you back. My goal is to create a space where you feel both comfortable and challenged in ways that lead to meaningful and lasting change. I’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
I’m also trained in EMDR, which can be especially helpful for processing difficult or overwhelming experiences.
Accepting New Clients! I’m glad you’re here. Finding the right therapist can make all the difference, and I place a strong emphasis on building a genuine, supportive relationship from the start. I offer a collaborative, structured approach to therapy, helping you develop practical skills while also working through the deeper patterns, beliefs, and thought processes that may be holding you back. My goal is to create a space where you feel both comfortable and challenged in ways that lead to meaningful and lasting change. I’ll meet you where you are and help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
(984) 305-3130 View (984) 305-3130
Photo of Patricia J. Tuohy, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Patricia J. Tuohy
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Online Only
You are constantly feeling emotional triggers and are not sure why. Despite being successful in your life, these triggers have become familiar, as this has been your experience for as long as you can remember. You have trouble sleeping, your relationships are suffering, and you don't know who you are. You awaken most days with dread. The anxiety hits you immediately. You wonder how you are going to get through your day feeling so overwhelmed. The emotional distress is taking a toll on your health and well-being. You feel disconnected from yourself and others. You know it's time to do something different.
You are constantly feeling emotional triggers and are not sure why. Despite being successful in your life, these triggers have become familiar, as this has been your experience for as long as you can remember. You have trouble sleeping, your relationships are suffering, and you don't know who you are. You awaken most days with dread. The anxiety hits you immediately. You wonder how you are going to get through your day feeling so overwhelmed. The emotional distress is taking a toll on your health and well-being. You feel disconnected from yourself and others. You know it's time to do something different.
(919) 648-1494 x1 View (919) 648-1494 x1

See more therapy options for Goldsboro

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.