EMDR Therapists in Kinston, NC

Photo of Venita Wiley Wright-Blake, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Venita Wiley Wright-Blake
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
1 Endorsed
Kinston, NC 28501
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 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 Irma Abrego-Lappin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Irma Abrego-Lappin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am bilingual and have been certified in EMDR.
As a therapist, I believe people have deep-rooted aspirations for well-being in many areas of their lives, including emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. I strive to make a safe and trusting relationship with clients so that they can improve in each of these areas and feel more balanced and fulfilled. I collaboratively work with clients, valuing their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. I enjoy working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief, life transitions, career/vocational concerns, spirituality, weight management and body image concerns, and relationship issues.
I am bilingual and have been certified in EMDR.
As a therapist, I believe people have deep-rooted aspirations for well-being in many areas of their lives, including emotional, physical, social, and spiritual wellness. I strive to make a safe and trusting relationship with clients so that they can improve in each of these areas and feel more balanced and fulfilled. I collaboratively work with clients, valuing their unique strengths, interests, and aspirations. I enjoy working with clients dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma and PTSD, grief, life transitions, career/vocational concerns, spirituality, weight management and body image concerns, and relationship issues.
(252) 379-0066 View (252) 379-0066
Photo of Kim Morris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kim Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
My approach blends EMDR, ACT, HRV, Stress First Aid, and somatic tools to build emotional regulation, stress tolerance, and lasting wellness.
Are you ready to thrive—not just survive? I help first responder families, professionals, and caregivers move from burnout to balance using actionable, research-backed tools. Together, we’ll leverage your strengths to build resilience, reclaim energy, & elevate your performance as the BEST version of you. As an experienced clinician—and first responder spouse, caregiver, & business owner—I understand how chronic stress affects your health, performance, and relationships. You don’t have to navigate it alone. Let’s create a space where healing and growth are truly possible.
My approach blends EMDR, ACT, HRV, Stress First Aid, and somatic tools to build emotional regulation, stress tolerance, and lasting wellness.
Are you ready to thrive—not just survive? I help first responder families, professionals, and caregivers move from burnout to balance using actionable, research-backed tools. Together, we’ll leverage your strengths to build resilience, reclaim energy, & elevate your performance as the BEST version of you. As an experienced clinician—and first responder spouse, caregiver, & business owner—I understand how chronic stress affects your health, performance, and relationships. You don’t have to navigate it alone. Let’s create a space where healing and growth are truly possible.
(252) 253-6105 View (252) 253-6105
Photo of Ashley Cox Hurdle, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Ashley Cox Hurdle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
With a series of therapeutic approaches and techniques including EMDR, CBT, psychodynamic, gestalt, and humanistic, change is possible.
Now Accepting Clients - Welcome! You have made the first big step in taking control of your mental health by simply searching. This is big, and you should be so proud of yourself for starting this journey! As a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience, I would be honored to join you, and walk along side you as you lean into exploration and restoration. Life can be hard, but even when it doesn't seem possible, you can do difficult and amazing things.
With a series of therapeutic approaches and techniques including EMDR, CBT, psychodynamic, gestalt, and humanistic, change is possible.
Now Accepting Clients - Welcome! You have made the first big step in taking control of your mental health by simply searching. This is big, and you should be so proud of yourself for starting this journey! As a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience, I would be honored to join you, and walk along side you as you lean into exploration and restoration. Life can be hard, but even when it doesn't seem possible, you can do difficult and amazing things.
(252) 599-5322 View (252) 599-5322
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 Sarah Stein-Wolf, Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, RPT
Sarah Stein-Wolf
Counselor, MA, LCMHC-S, RPT
Serves Area
You’re exhausted from trying desperately to balance your needs with the demands of kids, school or work. As a parent you’re struggling to understand where your child is coming from. Does the “parent guilt” creep in while you’re trying to keep all the plates spinning? Maybe you have a child who is anxious, worried, has difficulty sleeping or going to school, or expects perfection. Perhaps you are learning how to parent differently than how you were parented. Balancing caring for you vs. others is hard. Thoughts of anxiety, self-doubt, and concern that you aren't good enough can become a negative self-talk loop in your head.
You’re exhausted from trying desperately to balance your needs with the demands of kids, school or work. As a parent you’re struggling to understand where your child is coming from. Does the “parent guilt” creep in while you’re trying to keep all the plates spinning? Maybe you have a child who is anxious, worried, has difficulty sleeping or going to school, or expects perfection. Perhaps you are learning how to parent differently than how you were parented. Balancing caring for you vs. others is hard. Thoughts of anxiety, self-doubt, and concern that you aren't good enough can become a negative self-talk loop in your head.
(252) 544-5309 View (252) 544-5309
Photo of Beverly Lyne Sheaffer, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, ATR-BC, CCS, LCAS
Beverly Lyne Sheaffer
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, ATR-BC, CCS, LCAS
Serves Area
(252) 565-1927 View (252) 565-1927
Photo of Nicole Bauer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC
Nicole Bauer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MFT, LPC
Serves Area
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

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kayla Bullard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kayla Bullard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Greenville, NC 27858
I draw from evidence-based modalities including ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and EMDR.
I work primarily with women, neurodivergent clients, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and teens and adults (ages 13+) navigating trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity shifts, and relationship difficulties. I have a special interest in perinatal mental health, the season of life that includes pregnancy, postpartum recovery, birth trauma, and the emotional complexity of stepping into (or deepening) motherhood. This transition can be beautiful, disorienting, grief-filled, and everything in between. You deserve support that holds all of it.
I draw from evidence-based modalities including ACT (Acceptance & Commitment Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy), and EMDR.
I work primarily with women, neurodivergent clients, LGBTQIA+ individuals, and teens and adults (ages 13+) navigating trauma, emotional overwhelm, identity shifts, and relationship difficulties. I have a special interest in perinatal mental health, the season of life that includes pregnancy, postpartum recovery, birth trauma, and the emotional complexity of stepping into (or deepening) motherhood. This transition can be beautiful, disorienting, grief-filled, and everything in between. You deserve support that holds all of it.
(252) 600-2859 View (252) 600-2859
Photo of Nancy Salinas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Nancy Salinas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Using CBT, EMDR, trauma-focused methods, and mindfulness, we’ll work at your pace to explore your experiences, build on strengths, and develop tools to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and connected.
Hello and welcome. I'm a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed social worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California. With a trauma-informed approach, I’ve had the privilege of supporting children, teens, and adults through school-based settings, child welfare, and community mental health services for more than 10 years.
Using CBT, EMDR, trauma-focused methods, and mindfulness, we’ll work at your pace to explore your experiences, build on strengths, and develop tools to help you feel more grounded, empowered, and connected.
Hello and welcome. I'm a bilingual (English/Spanish) licensed social worker with a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Southern California. With a trauma-informed approach, I’ve had the privilege of supporting children, teens, and adults through school-based settings, child welfare, and community mental health services for more than 10 years.
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Photo of Shanda Howell - Shanda Hearts, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, BSN, RN, LCMHC
Shanda Hearts
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, BSN, RN, LCMHC
4 Endorsed
Online Only
We use EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, and solution based treatment
You look strong on the outside, but inside you’re exhausted. Maybe you’ve survived trauma, narcissistic relationships, church hurt, or years of being the one everyone depends on. You may struggle with anxiety, anger in your body, boundary guilt, or feeling stuck in survival mode. I help high-functioning adults heal at the root, integrating trauma, nervous system regulation, and identity restoration; so you can finally feel safe, calm, and fully yourself again, not just “holding it together.”
We use EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, and solution based treatment
You look strong on the outside, but inside you’re exhausted. Maybe you’ve survived trauma, narcissistic relationships, church hurt, or years of being the one everyone depends on. You may struggle with anxiety, anger in your body, boundary guilt, or feeling stuck in survival mode. I help high-functioning adults heal at the root, integrating trauma, nervous system regulation, and identity restoration; so you can finally feel safe, calm, and fully yourself again, not just “holding it together.”
(252) 297-6671 View (252) 297-6671
Photo of Kinsey Womble, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Kinsey Womble
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Serves Area
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 LaTia Guyton, Counselor, MA, LCMHC
LaTia Guyton
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Online Only
I use IFS, brainspotting, & EMDR to help you get unstuck and process what you feel you cannot get over
If you feel that talk therapy has not helped you, keep reading... There is a point in life when we get tired of not thriving. Trauma.. Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are robbing you of the life that you see. You can see a better life for yourself in the distance, but you have no idea how to get there. Striving for perfectionism, people pleasing, feeling like you are always the problem, that you are not enough. Also, I was an educator for almost 20 years, so I know the stressors that teachers experience. No one knows what teachers go through better than a teacher. I offer a 100% judgment-free zone. Lets talk.
I use IFS, brainspotting, & EMDR to help you get unstuck and process what you feel you cannot get over
If you feel that talk therapy has not helped you, keep reading... There is a point in life when we get tired of not thriving. Trauma.. Overwhelming anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem are robbing you of the life that you see. You can see a better life for yourself in the distance, but you have no idea how to get there. Striving for perfectionism, people pleasing, feeling like you are always the problem, that you are not enough. Also, I was an educator for almost 20 years, so I know the stressors that teachers experience. No one knows what teachers go through better than a teacher. I offer a 100% judgment-free zone. Lets talk.
(252) 818-5210 View (252) 818-5210
Photo of Brianna J Knox - Renewed Resilience, PLLC | Trauma & EMDR Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Renewed Resilience, PLLC | Trauma & EMDR Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
Our therapists utilize trauma-focused talk therapy, CBT, ACT, and EMDR to help you heal past childhood trauma wounds.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with anxiety about the holidays? Dreading putting on a fake smile for toxic family members at Christmas dinner? Struggling with your choice to not even show up to the family function? We got you. We are a team of trauma experts who specialize in helping Millennials ditch the shame and guilt of childhood trauma and to build the confidence and self-esteem needed to kick toxic friends and family to the curb.
Our therapists utilize trauma-focused talk therapy, CBT, ACT, and EMDR to help you heal past childhood trauma wounds.
Are you feeling overwhelmed with anxiety about the holidays? Dreading putting on a fake smile for toxic family members at Christmas dinner? Struggling with your choice to not even show up to the family function? We got you. We are a team of trauma experts who specialize in helping Millennials ditch the shame and guilt of childhood trauma and to build the confidence and self-esteem needed to kick toxic friends and family to the curb.
(704) 981-6398 View (704) 981-6398
Photo of Janice Britt, Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Janice Britt
Counselor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
2 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that aren’t working, or unsure how to move forward, you’re not alone. Many people come to therapy knowing something needs to change, but not quite sure how to make it happen. With over 18 years of experience, I’ve worked with adults navigating both mental health and substance use challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS), and Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS).
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stuck in patterns that aren’t working, or unsure how to move forward, you’re not alone. Many people come to therapy knowing something needs to change, but not quite sure how to make it happen. With over 18 years of experience, I’ve worked with adults navigating both mental health and substance use challenges. I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS), and Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS).
(252) 460-4219 View (252) 460-4219
Photo of Alana Pipkin, LCMHCA, MA
Alana Pipkin
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, NC 27858
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 A. Kristian Wallace-Nichols, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
A. Kristian Wallace-Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Online Only
I am trained in EMDR and incorporate it into my work to help clients process difficult experiences and move towards healing.
When life feels unpredictable or overwhelming, it can be easy to feel alone. My goal as a therapist is to provide a space where you feel truly heard, supported, and safe — a place where you do not have to hide your anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or worries. Therapy should be a space where you can show up exactly as you are, without judgment, and know that it is okay to not be okay.
I am trained in EMDR and incorporate it into my work to help clients process difficult experiences and move towards healing.
When life feels unpredictable or overwhelming, it can be easy to feel alone. My goal as a therapist is to provide a space where you feel truly heard, supported, and safe — a place where you do not have to hide your anxiety, depression, relationship struggles, or worries. Therapy should be a space where you can show up exactly as you are, without judgment, and know that it is okay to not be okay.
(252) 300-0785 View (252) 300-0785
Photo of Tonya K. Harris, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Tonya K. Harris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Greenville, NC 27834
A Fresh Start Behavioral Services can help you sort through the emotional and mental places of your heart, mind and spirit through reflective listening, empathy, different types of therapy such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR (a trauma therapy), Faith Based, psycho-education, and life coaching just to name a few.
Are you having problems at home, work or school? Are you having difficulties connecting with your spouse, children, family/friends or co-workers? Are you experiencing any grief or difficulty letting go whether it is a loved one that has transitioned or a relationship that has ended. Have any changes in your life caused you to have difficulty adjusting or coping with new ways of living. Have you been depressed, stressed or experiencing any anxiety? If your answer is yes to any of these challenging issues or events, I would like to offer you a "Fresh Start" in moving towards a place of peace and harmony in your own existence.
A Fresh Start Behavioral Services can help you sort through the emotional and mental places of your heart, mind and spirit through reflective listening, empathy, different types of therapy such as Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR (a trauma therapy), Faith Based, psycho-education, and life coaching just to name a few.
Are you having problems at home, work or school? Are you having difficulties connecting with your spouse, children, family/friends or co-workers? Are you experiencing any grief or difficulty letting go whether it is a loved one that has transitioned or a relationship that has ended. Have any changes in your life caused you to have difficulty adjusting or coping with new ways of living. Have you been depressed, stressed or experiencing any anxiety? If your answer is yes to any of these challenging issues or events, I would like to offer you a "Fresh Start" in moving towards a place of peace and harmony in your own existence.
(252) 300-3393 View (252) 300-3393
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

See more therapy options for Kinston

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.