EMDR Therapists in Warr Acres, OK

Photo of Amy Stark, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Amy Stark
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Warr Acres, OK 73132
I am trained in EMDR and would love to help you with changing some of the negative beliefs that shape your daily actions.
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
I am trained in EMDR and would love to help you with changing some of the negative beliefs that shape your daily actions.
I am licensed in Oklahoma with 6 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, family conflicts, coping with grief and loss, & parenting issues. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!
(405) 913-4153 View (405) 913-4153
Photo of Lindsey Braney, Pre-Licensed Professional in Warr Acres, OK
Lindsey Braney
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPC-C
Verified Verified
Warr Acres, OK 73132
In addition, I am equipped to promote healing from trauma through the use of EMDR techniques.
At Deaconess we provide support for individuals and families who have been impacted by adoption, foster care, infertility, maternal mental health, and attachment-related challenges. We cater to individuals of all ages, offering specialized therapy tailored to your unique needs.
In addition, I am equipped to promote healing from trauma through the use of EMDR techniques.
At Deaconess we provide support for individuals and families who have been impacted by adoption, foster care, infertility, maternal mental health, and attachment-related challenges. We cater to individuals of all ages, offering specialized therapy tailored to your unique needs.
(405) 281-4261 View (405) 281-4261
Photo of Kathryn Roesler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Kathryn Roesler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warr Acres, OK 73132
I am formally trained in EMDR and other therapeutic theories.
Sometimes we feel like we are broken into a million pieces. Looking at the pieces feels overwhelming and exhausting. It feels like we cannot do this on our own but we don't want to be a burden on others. Having someone help put the pieces back together can help us feel more whole. Taking a step towards healing is a starting with a helping hand. I am a Licensed Therapist with 5+ years of experience and I am formally trained in EMDR. I like to look at the root cause of our distress and what made us who we are.
I am formally trained in EMDR and other therapeutic theories.
Sometimes we feel like we are broken into a million pieces. Looking at the pieces feels overwhelming and exhausting. It feels like we cannot do this on our own but we don't want to be a burden on others. Having someone help put the pieces back together can help us feel more whole. Taking a step towards healing is a starting with a helping hand. I am a Licensed Therapist with 5+ years of experience and I am formally trained in EMDR. I like to look at the root cause of our distress and what made us who we are.
(405) 554-2559 View (405) 554-2559
Photo of Anchored Being, Pastoral Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Anchored Being
Pastoral Counselor, MDiv, MA
Verified Verified
Warr Acres, OK 73122
In my life, I have struggled with a lot of issues; I have had a lot of death and trauma. I experienced sexual, emotional and psychological abuse as a child; was deeply depressed and often times had suicidal ideation; was reared in a dysfunctional environment with a mother who most likely had bi-polar conditions; by the time I was 22, when she passed, there had been almost two dozen deaths that directly affected my life; I have been through two very serious auto accidents and been trapped in a burning building. C-PTSD is very common to me. My motto really is: the healing healer trying to help others heal.
In my life, I have struggled with a lot of issues; I have had a lot of death and trauma. I experienced sexual, emotional and psychological abuse as a child; was deeply depressed and often times had suicidal ideation; was reared in a dysfunctional environment with a mother who most likely had bi-polar conditions; by the time I was 22, when she passed, there had been almost two dozen deaths that directly affected my life; I have been through two very serious auto accidents and been trapped in a burning building. C-PTSD is very common to me. My motto really is: the healing healer trying to help others heal.
(405) 925-1966 View (405) 925-1966

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marcia Leys, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Marcia Leys
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Trained in EMDR, a unique therapy that can help bring resolve to traumatic memories and events.
Many people struggle with issues of the heart and relationships, whether betrayal, trauma, addiction, or obsession. From time to time, they wish there was someone to talk to who could help them find healing and also help equip them with tools for better relationships and a more meaningful life. I believe a safe relationship with a counselor is fertile ground for the healing experience you may be looking for. I'd be honored to walk that journey with you.
Trained in EMDR, a unique therapy that can help bring resolve to traumatic memories and events.
Many people struggle with issues of the heart and relationships, whether betrayal, trauma, addiction, or obsession. From time to time, they wish there was someone to talk to who could help them find healing and also help equip them with tools for better relationships and a more meaningful life. I believe a safe relationship with a counselor is fertile ground for the healing experience you may be looking for. I'd be honored to walk that journey with you.
(405) 622-5657 View (405) 622-5657
Photo of Becky Aebi, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Becky Aebi
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHR, MSMH, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
I am an experienced EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocess), DBT Therapist (Dialectic Behavioral Therapist) and CCTP (Certified Complex Trauma Professional).
“This is the last time I am giving therapy a try”. I have heard these words from many new clients that have had amazing success stories after working with me as their therapist. Not all therapists are the perfect fit for all clients. Let me be that person that helps you become UNSTUCK. You may wonder what makes my approach different than past experiences in therapy. I am a therapist that will help you process your symptoms, challenge your thoughts, give you homework, and keep you accountable. It is nice to process our day-to-day events, but processing alone can keep us feeling STUCK!
I am an experienced EMDR Therapist (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocess), DBT Therapist (Dialectic Behavioral Therapist) and CCTP (Certified Complex Trauma Professional).
“This is the last time I am giving therapy a try”. I have heard these words from many new clients that have had amazing success stories after working with me as their therapist. Not all therapists are the perfect fit for all clients. Let me be that person that helps you become UNSTUCK. You may wonder what makes my approach different than past experiences in therapy. I am a therapist that will help you process your symptoms, challenge your thoughts, give you homework, and keep you accountable. It is nice to process our day-to-day events, but processing alone can keep us feeling STUCK!
(405) 972-8576 View (405) 972-8576
Photo of Kristi Gibbs, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Kristi Gibbs
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP-1
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73132  (Online Only)
I’m also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), which is used successfully for trauma and many other issues.
Therapy is a space for you to receive grace through empathy, genuineness, & kindness. Are you feeling lost & alone? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, grief, or narcissistic abuse & unsure how to cope? Are you exploring your identity or sexuality & need gentle, accepting support for issues you have? My clients say I feel safe, warm, affirming & caring, which empowers them in their healing. I want to help you better cope with life experiences, learn skills to help increase desirable thoughts, feelings & behaviors, while also helping educate you to develop abilities to reduce distressing symptoms.
I’m also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), which is used successfully for trauma and many other issues.
Therapy is a space for you to receive grace through empathy, genuineness, & kindness. Are you feeling lost & alone? Are you experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, chronic illness, grief, or narcissistic abuse & unsure how to cope? Are you exploring your identity or sexuality & need gentle, accepting support for issues you have? My clients say I feel safe, warm, affirming & caring, which empowers them in their healing. I want to help you better cope with life experiences, learn skills to help increase desirable thoughts, feelings & behaviors, while also helping educate you to develop abilities to reduce distressing symptoms.
(405) 494-0446 View (405) 494-0446
Photo of Angie Ridings, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Angie Ridings
Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR-C, LADC, CSAT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Bethany, OK 73008
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR certified and have been conducting EMDR therapy since 2009.
​I consider it a great honor when someone invites me to help with their struggles. My passion is to help people heal who have been devastated by trauma, addiction, and stressful life events. I work with all kinds of trauma such as childhood abuse/neglect, unexpected life events, a health crisis, and betrayal trauma caused by deception related to infidelity, porn, emotional affairs, and addiction. I use unique blends of EMDR therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model in healing betrayal trauma. My therapeutic style utilizes a blend of attachment & polyvagal theory, and interpersonal neurobiology.
I am EMDR certified and have been conducting EMDR therapy since 2009.
​I consider it a great honor when someone invites me to help with their struggles. My passion is to help people heal who have been devastated by trauma, addiction, and stressful life events. I work with all kinds of trauma such as childhood abuse/neglect, unexpected life events, a health crisis, and betrayal trauma caused by deception related to infidelity, porn, emotional affairs, and addiction. I use unique blends of EMDR therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and the Multidimensional Partner Trauma Model in healing betrayal trauma. My therapeutic style utilizes a blend of attachment & polyvagal theory, and interpersonal neurobiology.
(405) 285-7332 View (405) 285-7332
Photo of Shantel Farrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Warr Acres, OK
Shantel Farrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma Focused Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT).
Hi, I am a licensed marital and family therapist. I help my clients by empowering them to become in charge of their lives. My role is to help guide you to your ideal future. I believe YOU are the expert of your life and YOU are the only one who can create your ideal change. We all go through times when life's challenges seem to get the best of us. However, WE will find your path and get you back on track. I provide a safe place for you to come and be as you are. You do not have to live in this vicious, emotionally exhausting cycle any longer.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Trauma Focused Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT).
Hi, I am a licensed marital and family therapist. I help my clients by empowering them to become in charge of their lives. My role is to help guide you to your ideal future. I believe YOU are the expert of your life and YOU are the only one who can create your ideal change. We all go through times when life's challenges seem to get the best of us. However, WE will find your path and get you back on track. I provide a safe place for you to come and be as you are. You do not have to live in this vicious, emotionally exhausting cycle any longer.
(405) 708-6987 View (405) 708-6987
Photo of Michael Radonski, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warr Acres, OK
Michael Radonski
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73132
I also offer EMDR and hypnotherapy for those who are trying to move past trauma, depression, anxiety, or if they are looking for performance improvement.
Do you remember a time in your life when you felt confident, proud, happy, and in control? Even if it was just for a few short minutes, those feelings had to be AMAZING! Let's work together to find those feelings again. It takes courage to return to a fulfilling and happy life, but it can also be exciting and rewarding! So let's do the hard work together. Why would you not? I have in-person, virtual, evening, and weekend appointments to provide because I know your important your mental health is to you, your loved ones, and your friends.
I also offer EMDR and hypnotherapy for those who are trying to move past trauma, depression, anxiety, or if they are looking for performance improvement.
Do you remember a time in your life when you felt confident, proud, happy, and in control? Even if it was just for a few short minutes, those feelings had to be AMAZING! Let's work together to find those feelings again. It takes courage to return to a fulfilling and happy life, but it can also be exciting and rewarding! So let's do the hard work together. Why would you not? I have in-person, virtual, evening, and weekend appointments to provide because I know your important your mental health is to you, your loved ones, and your friends.
(405) 349-5408 View (405) 349-5408
Photo of Indigo Oliver, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Indigo Oliver
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
Bethany, OK 73008
I utilize EMDR therapy (EMDR Certified) to help my clients resolve past experiences that are impacting the present.
My office is designed to be a safe place for all clients; I will honor your identity fully. No matter the circumstances in life, I believe we all have choices & ways to make meaning from our experiences. In therapy, I work with clients to establish a relationship based on trust, respect, & understanding. I help my clients to illuminate the choices that are available & process ways to find meaningful connections within themselves & in their relationships with others. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist & love working with clients in the LGBTQ+ community!
I utilize EMDR therapy (EMDR Certified) to help my clients resolve past experiences that are impacting the present.
My office is designed to be a safe place for all clients; I will honor your identity fully. No matter the circumstances in life, I believe we all have choices & ways to make meaning from our experiences. In therapy, I work with clients to establish a relationship based on trust, respect, & understanding. I help my clients to illuminate the choices that are available & process ways to find meaningful connections within themselves & in their relationships with others. I am an LGBTQ+ affirming therapist & love working with clients in the LGBTQ+ community!
(405) 351-5480 View (405) 351-5480
Photo of Tracy Harper, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Tracy Harper
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73132
Waitlist for new clients
Are you a parent needing some direction and support? Are you experiencing difficulties in your marriage or relationship? Is there unhealed trauma in your past? Are you struggling with today's many life stressors? Many of the clients I work with are struggling to find solutions to similar issues. I believe the answers we need are within each of us, and by providing a safe and trusting place to explore options, those answers can be revealed. I provide a safe and calm place to discover the answers to my client's issues, needs and goals. I have training and experience in EMDR.
Are you a parent needing some direction and support? Are you experiencing difficulties in your marriage or relationship? Is there unhealed trauma in your past? Are you struggling with today's many life stressors? Many of the clients I work with are struggling to find solutions to similar issues. I believe the answers we need are within each of us, and by providing a safe and trusting place to explore options, those answers can be revealed. I provide a safe and calm place to discover the answers to my client's issues, needs and goals. I have training and experience in EMDR.
(405) 444-8583 View (405) 444-8583
Photo of Benjamin Rex Allison, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Benjamin Rex Allison
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CSAT
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally, I am an EMDR Therapist, as well as a CSAT - Candidate.
“Hello, are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Dealing with out of control emotions or behaviors? Reaching out for help can be difficult, you do not have to go it alone. My passion is helping people with the stresses, pain, hardships, past or present that life may throw at them in order to restore you to a place of healing. In session you will find that I am compassionate and dedicated to my clients, working with those seeking solutions to life struggles. Your own thoughts, beliefs, and values are important to me as well as your involvement in counseling. It is time for you to retake control of your life!”
Additionally, I am an EMDR Therapist, as well as a CSAT - Candidate.
“Hello, are you feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed? Dealing with out of control emotions or behaviors? Reaching out for help can be difficult, you do not have to go it alone. My passion is helping people with the stresses, pain, hardships, past or present that life may throw at them in order to restore you to a place of healing. In session you will find that I am compassionate and dedicated to my clients, working with those seeking solutions to life struggles. Your own thoughts, beliefs, and values are important to me as well as your involvement in counseling. It is time for you to retake control of your life!”
(405) 351-6089 View (405) 351-6089
Photo of Saundra Farley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Saundra Farley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73122
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapies, EMDR, EFT Tapping, and creative expression in treating those surviving from trauma and abuse, experiencing anxiety and depression to heal and help create new ways to avert crisis and manage difficulties.
Life can present us with challenges that are often overwhelming, preventing us from experiencing joy and happiness. My role is helping others find their own unique solutions by assessing the difficulties they're experiencing in their lives. By exploring and identifying their strengths and how they have successfully used them in the past, they can gain a new and different perspective that is essential in improving relationships. Are you ready for change? Do you want to improve your relationship with your spouse, children, or parents?
I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapies, EMDR, EFT Tapping, and creative expression in treating those surviving from trauma and abuse, experiencing anxiety and depression to heal and help create new ways to avert crisis and manage difficulties.
Life can present us with challenges that are often overwhelming, preventing us from experiencing joy and happiness. My role is helping others find their own unique solutions by assessing the difficulties they're experiencing in their lives. By exploring and identifying their strengths and how they have successfully used them in the past, they can gain a new and different perspective that is essential in improving relationships. Are you ready for change? Do you want to improve your relationship with your spouse, children, or parents?
(405) 896-3508 View (405) 896-3508
Photo of Alyssa Pratt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warr Acres, OK
Alyssa Pratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
Waitlist for new clients
I am also EMDR trained.
Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck or just want to change the patterns you've fallen into? Grief, anxiety, depression, and trauma can drain energy and prevent you from being the person you want to be. Seeking the help of a therapist can be the first step to becoming your best self. If you are looking for a change, I know I can help you work toward the goals you have for yourself and maybe find some new goals along the way!
I am also EMDR trained.
Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck or just want to change the patterns you've fallen into? Grief, anxiety, depression, and trauma can drain energy and prevent you from being the person you want to be. Seeking the help of a therapist can be the first step to becoming your best self. If you are looking for a change, I know I can help you work toward the goals you have for yourself and maybe find some new goals along the way!
(405) 251-8982 View (405) 251-8982
Photo of La Vida Sin Miedo - Cecilia Herrera-Leggett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warr Acres, OK
La Vida Sin Miedo - Cecilia Herrera-Leggett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
Hello! I am Cecilia Herrera-Leggett. As a professional counselor, I know that life is not easy, and sometimes it may seem impossible. I have empathy for the one to whom life has given difficult and painful experiences. For this reason, I am passionate about helping those who are already ready to take control of their lives, using their unlimited power, and thus achieve what they want most. Each of us knows that we can, but sometimes fear and lack of support and help stagnate us. Let me help you. I know that you can! Cheer up and call me now!
Hello! I am Cecilia Herrera-Leggett. As a professional counselor, I know that life is not easy, and sometimes it may seem impossible. I have empathy for the one to whom life has given difficult and painful experiences. For this reason, I am passionate about helping those who are already ready to take control of their lives, using their unlimited power, and thus achieve what they want most. Each of us knows that we can, but sometimes fear and lack of support and help stagnate us. Let me help you. I know that you can! Cheer up and call me now!
(405) 810-5200 View (405) 810-5200
Photo of Lana Raupe, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Lana Raupe
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oklahoma City, OK 73122
If you are ready to explore making changes/finding solutions to enhance your quality of life, I can provide a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental environment for you to work toward this. Together we will explore your life challenges and assess your needs/goals, while striving to access your inner motivation to make the changes that honor you and fit the lifestyle you wish to create and maintain. Changing relationships as well as many other life events and transitions can really challenge us all and sometimes accumulate and overwhelm. I believe seeking assistance at these times is definitely a show of courage, hope and resilience.
If you are ready to explore making changes/finding solutions to enhance your quality of life, I can provide a safe, supportive, nonjudgmental environment for you to work toward this. Together we will explore your life challenges and assess your needs/goals, while striving to access your inner motivation to make the changes that honor you and fit the lifestyle you wish to create and maintain. Changing relationships as well as many other life events and transitions can really challenge us all and sometimes accumulate and overwhelm. I believe seeking assistance at these times is definitely a show of courage, hope and resilience.
(405) 648-0079 View (405) 648-0079
Photo of Metro Family Therapy Counseling and Float Spa, Marriage & Family Therapist in Warr Acres, OK
Metro Family Therapy Counseling and Float Spa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, LADC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bethany, OK 73008
We are a group of healthcare professionals with many years of experience working with both children and adults. We use a integrative approach including a treatment team of massage therapists, dietitians, pediatritions, family physicians, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals. We also specialize in holistic treatments such as massage and float therapy, yoga, professional counseling and evaluations. We partner with a psychiatrist to provide medication management via telecommunication
We are a group of healthcare professionals with many years of experience working with both children and adults. We use a integrative approach including a treatment team of massage therapists, dietitians, pediatritions, family physicians, occupational therapists, speech pathologists, psychiatrists, psychologists, and other mental health professionals. We also specialize in holistic treatments such as massage and float therapy, yoga, professional counseling and evaluations. We partner with a psychiatrist to provide medication management via telecommunication
(405) 837-1033 View (405) 837-1033
Photo of Donna McCoy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Donna McCoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73116
My 25 years of experience in counseling psychology have given me a wide range of experience that is an advantage in collaborating with my clients to achieve their goals as quickly as possible. In addition, over 15 years in teaching psychology has given me a depth of knowledge and understanding in a variety of counseling techniques. Teaching has also helped me to stay in touch with the latest research and discoveries in the field. I feel I have a responsibility to my clients to assist them in reaching their goals as quickly as possible while at the same time imparting the skills and knowledge they need to continue to grow.
My 25 years of experience in counseling psychology have given me a wide range of experience that is an advantage in collaborating with my clients to achieve their goals as quickly as possible. In addition, over 15 years in teaching psychology has given me a depth of knowledge and understanding in a variety of counseling techniques. Teaching has also helped me to stay in touch with the latest research and discoveries in the field. I feel I have a responsibility to my clients to assist them in reaching their goals as quickly as possible while at the same time imparting the skills and knowledge they need to continue to grow.
(405) 353-9509 View (405) 353-9509
Photo of Annette Davenport, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warr Acres, OK
Annette Davenport
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Oklahoma City, OK 73122  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that life is a journey and not a destination. The past has brought you to where you are, however, you can decide where your journey will take you. As a therapist, I believe in treating the whole person. My role as a therapist is to provide clients with empathy and unconditional positive regard to facilitate change. It is important that the client develop his/her own journey to enhance their inner strengths to become the person they want to be. I love what I do. I come along beside my clients to develop a positive client/therapist relationship which is very important for fostering positive life changes.
I believe that life is a journey and not a destination. The past has brought you to where you are, however, you can decide where your journey will take you. As a therapist, I believe in treating the whole person. My role as a therapist is to provide clients with empathy and unconditional positive regard to facilitate change. It is important that the client develop his/her own journey to enhance their inner strengths to become the person they want to be. I love what I do. I come along beside my clients to develop a positive client/therapist relationship which is very important for fostering positive life changes.
(405) 972-6976 View (405) 972-6976

See more therapy options for Warr Acres

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.