EMDR Therapists in Smithfield, NC

Photo of Alexis Brewer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Alexis Brewer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Smithfield, NC 27577
I also have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and attachment models that allows me to effectively support children and families navigating behavioral concerns and trauma.
Brewer Counseling Agency, PLLC provides assessment and therapy treatment to individuals, families, and couples, ages 2 and older, virtually and in-person located in Smithfield, North Carolina.
I also have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and attachment models that allows me to effectively support children and families navigating behavioral concerns and trauma.
Brewer Counseling Agency, PLLC provides assessment and therapy treatment to individuals, families, and couples, ages 2 and older, virtually and in-person located in Smithfield, North Carolina.
(984) 305-2691 View (984) 305-2691
Photo of Renee Watson Adams, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Renee Watson Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
2 Endorsed
Smithfield, NC 27577
( EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment that was originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.
YOU CAN LIVE BEYOND IT.... LET ME SHOW YOU HOW! I have the skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, I am easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, I will be your last therapist. I have worked with both children and adults with mental health and substance abuse issues since 1995. I listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW https://www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson/
( EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment that was originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.
YOU CAN LIVE BEYOND IT.... LET ME SHOW YOU HOW! I have the skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, I am easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, I will be your last therapist. I have worked with both children and adults with mental health and substance abuse issues since 1995. I listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW https://www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson/
(984) 374-9848 View (984) 374-9848
Photo of Renee Watson Adams - Living Beyond It Counseling and Consultations, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, LCMHCSS, LCAS, CCS
Living Beyond It Counseling and Consultations
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, LCMHCSS, LCAS, CCS
Smithfield, NC 27577
( EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment that was originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.
Our Therapists are Accepting Medicaid and ChampVA....You Can Live Beyond It ... Let us show you how! We have amazing therapist with skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, we are easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, we will be your last therapist. We listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson
( EMDR) is a psychotherapy treatment that was originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.
Our Therapists are Accepting Medicaid and ChampVA....You Can Live Beyond It ... Let us show you how! We have amazing therapist with skills to help you refresh, be happy and find pleasure in life again. If you have never engaged in counseling before, we are easy to talk to. If you have been in therapy before, we will be your last therapist. We listen with unconditional acceptance to assist you in finding solutions and coping skills for that difficult situation you are going through! Email me or follow this link to schedule your appointment NOW www.therapyportal.com/p/reneewatson
(984) 374-9848 View (984) 374-9848
Photo of Melissa Parnell, Psychologist, PhD
Melissa Parnell
Psychologist, PhD
Smithfield, NC 27577
Waitlist for new clients
Asking for help is difficult, but it is also one of the most courageous acts a person can take. I understand that difficulty and strive to greet you with the warmth, empathy, and acceptance that you deserve. Working with and supporting people is at the heart of who I am and what I do, and I believe that an authentic relationship is essential for successful outcomes.
Asking for help is difficult, but it is also one of the most courageous acts a person can take. I understand that difficulty and strive to greet you with the warmth, empathy, and acceptance that you deserve. Working with and supporting people is at the heart of who I am and what I do, and I believe that an authentic relationship is essential for successful outcomes.
(919) 759-5556 View (919) 759-5556
Photo of Kairashia Boyce Rasberry, MS, NCC, LCMHC, LCAS, QS,CCS, LPC
Kairashia Boyce Rasberry
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Smithfield, NC 27577
Our therapists utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and The Gottman Method for couples, to help you achieve your goals and create the life you desire.
Life's challenges can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed, even if those around you are unaware. You may be struggling to maintain control and desperately need a safe space to address these issues without fear of judgment or shame. Perhaps your relationships or marriage are suffering, or stress is impacting your health and work productivity. If you're yearning for balance, peace, and a sense of calm, you're not alone.
Our therapists utilize evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and The Gottman Method for couples, to help you achieve your goals and create the life you desire.
Life's challenges can leave you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, and depressed, even if those around you are unaware. You may be struggling to maintain control and desperately need a safe space to address these issues without fear of judgment or shame. Perhaps your relationships or marriage are suffering, or stress is impacting your health and work productivity. If you're yearning for balance, peace, and a sense of calm, you're not alone.
(252) 888-6759 View (252) 888-6759
Photo of Lakesha L Means, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Lakesha L Means
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
My ideal clients are individuals who are in need of effective counseling, skills training, interventions and resource coordination and more. I am committed to individual therapy, family preservation, and empowering individuals to set and achieve their own goals. I want to remove the negative stigma attached to therapy and support my clients on their development. I am very passionate about helping clients find ways to regulate and process their emotions effectively.
My ideal clients are individuals who are in need of effective counseling, skills training, interventions and resource coordination and more. I am committed to individual therapy, family preservation, and empowering individuals to set and achieve their own goals. I want to remove the negative stigma attached to therapy and support my clients on their development. I am very passionate about helping clients find ways to regulate and process their emotions effectively.
(919) 823-5455 View (919) 823-5455
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 Karen Driggers, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Karen Driggers
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Serves Area
Knowing suffering and struggle are common to all, I strive to provide hope and direction for people as they face real-world challenges. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and emotional instability, as well as concerns with unhealthy/low self-concept, anger/frustration, relational challenges, life transitions, grief/loss, and spiritual concerns may feel overwhelming. Acknowledging the need for help is a sign of strength and is a step toward a preferred future. My goal is to foster a safe, comfortable, and accepting atmosphere in which clients can be honest and open, relationships develop, and the work of healing begins.
Knowing suffering and struggle are common to all, I strive to provide hope and direction for people as they face real-world challenges. Symptoms of anxiety, depression, and emotional instability, as well as concerns with unhealthy/low self-concept, anger/frustration, relational challenges, life transitions, grief/loss, and spiritual concerns may feel overwhelming. Acknowledging the need for help is a sign of strength and is a step toward a preferred future. My goal is to foster a safe, comfortable, and accepting atmosphere in which clients can be honest and open, relationships develop, and the work of healing begins.
(984) 230-4834 View (984) 230-4834
Robert Slemmer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MEd
Serves Area
I think of therapy as a journey. I see my role as walking along side my client, shedding light on the past, helping make connections between events, thoughts, actions, and feelings. Working collaboratively, we make use of these insights to develop new perspectives on the past and the present. At the end of our time together, I want my client to feel more secure and confident moving forward under their own power, liking who they are and what they have to offer the world.
I think of therapy as a journey. I see my role as walking along side my client, shedding light on the past, helping make connections between events, thoughts, actions, and feelings. Working collaboratively, we make use of these insights to develop new perspectives on the past and the present. At the end of our time together, I want my client to feel more secure and confident moving forward under their own power, liking who they are and what they have to offer the world.
(919) 935-0881 View (919) 935-0881

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Manpreet Lehal - Wake Counseling, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, NCC, LPCS
Wake Counseling
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, MS, NCC, LPCS
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our techniques are based on evidence-based modalities such as DBT, EMDR, solution focused & CBT, just to name some.
Welcome to Wake Counseling! We provide the professional guidance you need to resolve wide variety of life issues. Our therapists are experienced & well trained to listen, guide, and respectfully challenge you. We have a team of passionate clinicians who has the expertise in different areas related to mental health & family issues. We are guiding individuals, couples and families make needed lifestyle adjustments that resulted in healthier coping skills, improved communication, and happiness. We also couples & families with adjustment, parenting issues, marital issues and substance use/abuse related issues.
Our techniques are based on evidence-based modalities such as DBT, EMDR, solution focused & CBT, just to name some.
Welcome to Wake Counseling! We provide the professional guidance you need to resolve wide variety of life issues. Our therapists are experienced & well trained to listen, guide, and respectfully challenge you. We have a team of passionate clinicians who has the expertise in different areas related to mental health & family issues. We are guiding individuals, couples and families make needed lifestyle adjustments that resulted in healthier coping skills, improved communication, and happiness. We also couples & families with adjustment, parenting issues, marital issues and substance use/abuse related issues.
(919) 647-4600 x1 View (919) 647-4600 x1
Photo of William Venable - LifeCare Counseling and Coaching, PC, Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, MD, PA, NPs
LifeCare Counseling and Coaching, PC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCs, LMFTs, LCSWs, MD, PA, NPs
11 Endorsed
Holly Springs, NC 27540
At LifeCare Counseling & Coaching, we are passionate about serving others by integrating the best psychiatric and mental health practices as well as spiritual care for the soul. Our team of licensed practitioners provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families of all kinds. We are a multi-site practice located at the Raleigh/Cary border, Wake Forest, Brier Creek, Holly Springs, Chapel Hill and the Triad area. In addition, many of our providers offer online therapy and we have interns who offer counseling on a sliding scale.
At LifeCare Counseling & Coaching, we are passionate about serving others by integrating the best psychiatric and mental health practices as well as spiritual care for the soul. Our team of licensed practitioners provide therapeutic services to individuals, couples, and families of all kinds. We are a multi-site practice located at the Raleigh/Cary border, Wake Forest, Brier Creek, Holly Springs, Chapel Hill and the Triad area. In addition, many of our providers offer online therapy and we have interns who offer counseling on a sliding scale.
(984) 205-8702 View (984) 205-8702
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 Taylor Pico, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, MFA
Taylor Pico
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCA, MA, MFA
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am trained in EMDR and IFS therapies, and often incorporate expressive arts, mindfulness, and somatic practices.
It's rough out there, amirite?! Life's been feeling pretty chaotic lately and the feeling of overwhelm is... well... getting to be a lot to handle. Maybe it's also been a long time since you felt like yourself or are trying to figure out who that is in this era of your life. Not to mention how are you supposed to juggle all of this when you have so many other responsibilities. My clients often reach out when they feel they need a little extra support to help them figure out what's now and what's next. I work most often with LGBTQIA+ folks, adults of all ages (especially young adults), and creatives.
I am trained in EMDR and IFS therapies, and often incorporate expressive arts, mindfulness, and somatic practices.
It's rough out there, amirite?! Life's been feeling pretty chaotic lately and the feeling of overwhelm is... well... getting to be a lot to handle. Maybe it's also been a long time since you felt like yourself or are trying to figure out who that is in this era of your life. Not to mention how are you supposed to juggle all of this when you have so many other responsibilities. My clients often reach out when they feel they need a little extra support to help them figure out what's now and what's next. I work most often with LGBTQIA+ folks, adults of all ages (especially young adults), and creatives.
(910) 501-2438 View (910) 501-2438
Photo of Stacey Dyjewski - Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services, PLLC, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS
Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Our practice offers: EMDR, ADHD testing/treatment for children/adults, treatment for PTSD/Veteran's, eating disorders, relationship therapy, and much more.
Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services is a large group practice that serves Wake Forest, North Raleigh, and counties north of Raleigh. The clinicians working at our office are experienced in all avenues of mental health and psychological treatment and testing. We offer comprehensive psychological services across the lifespan - from 6 years old to older adults. Because we treat all ages and all types of problems, we often see multiple family members under the same roof making it convenient to receive help.
Our practice offers: EMDR, ADHD testing/treatment for children/adults, treatment for PTSD/Veteran's, eating disorders, relationship therapy, and much more.
Perkins Counseling & Psychological Services is a large group practice that serves Wake Forest, North Raleigh, and counties north of Raleigh. The clinicians working at our office are experienced in all avenues of mental health and psychological treatment and testing. We offer comprehensive psychological services across the lifespan - from 6 years old to older adults. Because we treat all ages and all types of problems, we often see multiple family members under the same roof making it convenient to receive help.
(919) 680-1588 View (919) 680-1588
Photo of Kelly L Harrison, Marriage & Family Therapist, MACC, LCMHC-S, LMFT
Kelly L Harrison
Marriage & Family Therapist, MACC, LCMHC-S, LMFT
4 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27609
Are you, or someone you love, at a crossroads in life? Deciding to contact a therapist is the first step to bringing about the change you desire. I recognize that it takes courage to begin this search, and it is usually the result of emotional pain. I want you to know that there is hope. Your present circumstances do not have to dictate your future. This does not need to become your new normal. Instead, you have the power to overcome your current circumstances. I believe that through a safe and trusting counseling relationship, true healing can begin.
Are you, or someone you love, at a crossroads in life? Deciding to contact a therapist is the first step to bringing about the change you desire. I recognize that it takes courage to begin this search, and it is usually the result of emotional pain. I want you to know that there is hope. Your present circumstances do not have to dictate your future. This does not need to become your new normal. Instead, you have the power to overcome your current circumstances. I believe that through a safe and trusting counseling relationship, true healing can begin.
(984) 529-6553 View (984) 529-6553
Photo of Fani Mwasiti - Grace Therapy PLLC: We All Deserve Grace, LCSW Associate, MSW
Grace Therapy PLLC: We All Deserve Grace
LCSW Associate, MSW
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
With EMDR, we'll look at the root cause of your trauma/issues and explore the behaviors that are affecting you.
Hi, I am Fani. I provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families working on trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationships, PTSD, eating disorders, and other issues that impact your life. We will work to understand and find a solution to your problems' root causes while working toward healing and growth.
With EMDR, we'll look at the root cause of your trauma/issues and explore the behaviors that are affecting you.
Hi, I am Fani. I provide counseling services to individuals, couples, and families working on trauma, anxiety, depression, addiction, relationships, PTSD, eating disorders, and other issues that impact your life. We will work to understand and find a solution to your problems' root causes while working toward healing and growth.
(919) 873-4123 View (919) 873-4123
Photo of Maddie Clemens, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Maddie Clemens
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Serves Area
Whether we use EMDR or talk-therapy, it is my goal as a therapist to learn about your story, witness you in your present reality, and help you build a more hopeful future.
No two minds, hearts, nervous systems, or people are exactly alike - so your psychotherapy experience should be individually tailored to you. Through traditional talk therapy, trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, or other counseling services, I am here to help you, challenge you, and make the journey to a greater sense of wellness together.
Whether we use EMDR or talk-therapy, it is my goal as a therapist to learn about your story, witness you in your present reality, and help you build a more hopeful future.
No two minds, hearts, nervous systems, or people are exactly alike - so your psychotherapy experience should be individually tailored to you. Through traditional talk therapy, trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, or other counseling services, I am here to help you, challenge you, and make the journey to a greater sense of wellness together.
(910) 901-8858 View (910) 901-8858
Photo of Shannon Lomasney - Shannon Lomasney: EMDR Intensives in Durham, NC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Shannon Lomasney: EMDR Intensives in Durham, NC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have immediate openings for EMDR Intensives!
I integrate Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and somatic attunement. My clients have shared that through their work with me they have developed self-acceptance, greater self-trust, and have been able to deepen their relationship to themselves and others.
I have immediate openings for EMDR Intensives!
I integrate Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), nervous system regulation, mindfulness, and somatic attunement. My clients have shared that through their work with me they have developed self-acceptance, greater self-trust, and have been able to deepen their relationship to themselves and others.
(984) 237-8087 View (984) 237-8087
Photo of Elizabeth Pugliese, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Elizabeth Pugliese
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
5 Endorsed
Online Only
I tailor my approach to each individual, which can include EMDR, gently challenging you when appropriate, psychoeducation, providing resources, and combining other modalities.
It's exhausting to navigate life when isolated, facing one stressor after another, depressed or anxious, or trying to recover from a traumatic experience. For many, these experiences interfere with day-to-day life such as our relationships, work, school, and more. I work with adult individuals, couples and families to support them navigate life, growth, managing and recovering from a variety of mental health challenges through a holistic and person-centered approach. Whether it's life long challenges and wanting to dig deeper, or need support for a singular issue, I'm confident we can work together to get you what you need.
I tailor my approach to each individual, which can include EMDR, gently challenging you when appropriate, psychoeducation, providing resources, and combining other modalities.
It's exhausting to navigate life when isolated, facing one stressor after another, depressed or anxious, or trying to recover from a traumatic experience. For many, these experiences interfere with day-to-day life such as our relationships, work, school, and more. I work with adult individuals, couples and families to support them navigate life, growth, managing and recovering from a variety of mental health challenges through a holistic and person-centered approach. Whether it's life long challenges and wanting to dig deeper, or need support for a singular issue, I'm confident we can work together to get you what you need.
(919) 822-9118 View (919) 822-9118
Photo of Christian Davis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, LRT
Christian Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, LRT
2 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27601
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and utilize a variety of other modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Person-Centered Therapy.
Making the decision to pursue therapy can be the most challenging, yet rewarding steps you ever make towards healing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS), I strive to provide a warm, safe space to experience support and freedom from life’s many challenges. I specialize in working with individuals ages 18 and older who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance misuse, grief and loss, trauma, relationship challenges, social skills, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, and faith issues.
I have specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and utilize a variety of other modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Person-Centered Therapy.
Making the decision to pursue therapy can be the most challenging, yet rewarding steps you ever make towards healing. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS), I strive to provide a warm, safe space to experience support and freedom from life’s many challenges. I specialize in working with individuals ages 18 and older who are struggling with anxiety, depression, substance misuse, grief and loss, trauma, relationship challenges, social skills, self-esteem concerns, life transitions, and faith issues.
(919) 858-2977 View (919) 858-2977

See more therapy options for Smithfield

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.