EMDR Therapists in Benbrook, TX

Photo of Dr. Carolyn J Litteral, Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, MAC
Dr. Carolyn J Litteral
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, LCDC, MAC
3 Endorsed
Benbrook, TX 76126
I use evidence-based approaches including EMDR, trauma-focused sex therapy, attachment-focused therapy, Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), and motivational interviewing.
What Do You Want More of? What Do You Want Less Of? More peace? More clarity? More connection? More joy in your relationships? Have dreams you told yourself you could not achieve because... Feel unworthy of Love? God? Life? And what do you want less of? Less anxiety. Less shame. Less confusion about your faith. Less replaying of painful memories. Less feeling like you are “too much” or “not enough.” If you are here, chances are you are tired of just surviving. You want to actually enjoy your relationships. You want to feel safe in your own body. You want to trust again — maybe even trust yourself again.
I use evidence-based approaches including EMDR, trauma-focused sex therapy, attachment-focused therapy, Gottman Method, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), and motivational interviewing.
What Do You Want More of? What Do You Want Less Of? More peace? More clarity? More connection? More joy in your relationships? Have dreams you told yourself you could not achieve because... Feel unworthy of Love? God? Life? And what do you want less of? Less anxiety. Less shame. Less confusion about your faith. Less replaying of painful memories. Less feeling like you are “too much” or “not enough.” If you are here, chances are you are tired of just surviving. You want to actually enjoy your relationships. You want to feel safe in your own body. You want to trust again — maybe even trust yourself again.
(682) 243-1200 View (682) 243-1200
Photo of Gretchen Davis, Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Gretchen Davis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
1 Endorsed
Benbrook, TX 76109
I specialize in trauma-informed care and offer EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, and Structural Family therapy to support healing through life transitions, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
Life can feel overwhelming at times—whether you're navigating trauma, grief, relationship struggles, or major transitions. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed space where you can begin to heal and reconnect. I support children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families through anxiety, depression, and the challenges that come with being human. If you're ready to take the next step, I invite you to reach out. You're not alone, and healing is possible.
I specialize in trauma-informed care and offer EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, and Structural Family therapy to support healing through life transitions, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationship challenges.
Life can feel overwhelming at times—whether you're navigating trauma, grief, relationship struggles, or major transitions. I offer a compassionate, trauma-informed space where you can begin to heal and reconnect. I support children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families through anxiety, depression, and the challenges that come with being human. If you're ready to take the next step, I invite you to reach out. You're not alone, and healing is possible.
(817) 866-6728 View (817) 866-6728
Photo of Linley Freeman, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Linley Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Life is hard, whether hindered by challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life stressors & changes, or trauma, or simply wanting to become a better version of yourself. I help individuals & couples (Gottman Method Level 1) find direction and improve their lives. Often, my clients will come to me knowing there is a problem, but maybe aren't sure where to begin. It is my joy to help you sort through it all and find your unique path forward. We gather information, set goals, and get to work. When you are motivated to search within and make the necessary changes to thrive, the sky is the limit!
Life is hard, whether hindered by challenges such as anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, life stressors & changes, or trauma, or simply wanting to become a better version of yourself. I help individuals & couples (Gottman Method Level 1) find direction and improve their lives. Often, my clients will come to me knowing there is a problem, but maybe aren't sure where to begin. It is my joy to help you sort through it all and find your unique path forward. We gather information, set goals, and get to work. When you are motivated to search within and make the necessary changes to thrive, the sky is the limit!
(682) 452-6653 View (682) 452-6653
Photo of Anna Mariea Skaggs, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Anna Mariea Skaggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Serves Area
I use a number of therapeutic modalities including: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Play Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR)
Knowing that “one size fits all” is not the approach a good therapist would take. But being that therapist that is able to assist you to take hold of your future and assist you to heal from the past might be worth your time. I focus on working with people who have issues with: Life/Work/School. Caregivers/parents. Teens and adults living with trauma, Physical/Sexual assault. I have worked 20+ yrs. with people. The elderly, foster parents, teens as a school counselor and therapy to children and families suffering from trauma.
I use a number of therapeutic modalities including: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Trauma Focused-CBT, Play Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR)
Knowing that “one size fits all” is not the approach a good therapist would take. But being that therapist that is able to assist you to take hold of your future and assist you to heal from the past might be worth your time. I focus on working with people who have issues with: Life/Work/School. Caregivers/parents. Teens and adults living with trauma, Physical/Sexual assault. I have worked 20+ yrs. with people. The elderly, foster parents, teens as a school counselor and therapy to children and families suffering from trauma.
(817) 934-5872 View (817) 934-5872
Photo of Angelica Noel, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Angelica Noel
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
5 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified in TF-CBT and EMDR, two evidence-based approaches central to my work.
Life has a way of pulling us in many directions — caring for others, managing responsibilities, and navigating the unique challenges that come with our identities and lived experiences. It’s no wonder that finding balance can feel so out of reach. I provide a space where your story is heard, your identity is honored, and your experiences are valued. Whether you’re carrying the weight of past trauma or grief, feeling overwhelmed by life’s transitions, or wanting to reconnect with yourself, you don’t have to go through it alone. Together, we’ll explore what balance looks like for you and build tools that support meaningful change.
I am certified in TF-CBT and EMDR, two evidence-based approaches central to my work.
Life has a way of pulling us in many directions — caring for others, managing responsibilities, and navigating the unique challenges that come with our identities and lived experiences. It’s no wonder that finding balance can feel so out of reach. I provide a space where your story is heard, your identity is honored, and your experiences are valued. Whether you’re carrying the weight of past trauma or grief, feeling overwhelmed by life’s transitions, or wanting to reconnect with yourself, you don’t have to go through it alone. Together, we’ll explore what balance looks like for you and build tools that support meaningful change.
(817) 904-9115 View (817) 904-9115
Photo of Jade Wentz Stoner, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Jade Wentz Stoner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I am EMDR Trained
Different phases in life can feel stressful, anxiety-provoking, or nearly defeating. Finding a counselor can feel like a difficult step, but a step in the positive direction for growth and more self-compassion and understanding. Finding a counselor who can create a supportive and safe environment for growth is essential. Whether it is due to life adjustments such as, changes in relationships or your environment that are causing feelings of anxiety, stress or depression, it is essential for a counselor to establish a role that is conducive for growth, safety, and trust. Becoming a client's advocate and support is a crucial.
I have training in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and I am EMDR Trained
Different phases in life can feel stressful, anxiety-provoking, or nearly defeating. Finding a counselor can feel like a difficult step, but a step in the positive direction for growth and more self-compassion and understanding. Finding a counselor who can create a supportive and safe environment for growth is essential. Whether it is due to life adjustments such as, changes in relationships or your environment that are causing feelings of anxiety, stress or depression, it is essential for a counselor to establish a role that is conducive for growth, safety, and trust. Becoming a client's advocate and support is a crucial.
(817) 587-6903 View (817) 587-6903
Photo of Angela Michelle Matlock, Licensed Professional Counselor, M.S.,, LPC
Angela Michelle Matlock
Licensed Professional Counselor, M.S.,, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I provide an inclusive, nonjudgmental, supportive environment. My approach to therapy is active and collaborative; I often incorporate therapeutic assignments and encourage clients to engage intentionally in the work outside of sessions. I believe that meaningful change requires both challenge and practice in action.
I provide an inclusive, nonjudgmental, supportive environment. My approach to therapy is active and collaborative; I often incorporate therapeutic assignments and encourage clients to engage intentionally in the work outside of sessions. I believe that meaningful change requires both challenge and practice in action.
(430) 249-1159 View (430) 249-1159
Photo of Alison Fescenmeyer, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Alison Fescenmeyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
As an EMDR certified therapist with training in play therapy, I tailor counseling to each client's needs.
I am glad you're here. Healing doesn't happen in isolation, it happens in relationship. That's one of the reasons I love this work. For more than a decade, I've had the privilege of walking alongside children, teens, adults, and parents as they navigate anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and the challenges that come with being human. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or your child, my goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, understood, and never judged.
As an EMDR certified therapist with training in play therapy, I tailor counseling to each client's needs.
I am glad you're here. Healing doesn't happen in isolation, it happens in relationship. That's one of the reasons I love this work. For more than a decade, I've had the privilege of walking alongside children, teens, adults, and parents as they navigate anxiety, trauma, life transitions, and the challenges that come with being human. Whether you're seeking support for yourself or your child, my goal is to create a space where you feel comfortable, understood, and never judged.
(817) 506-9196 View (817) 506-9196
Photo of Nikolaus Johnson, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RPT-S
Nikolaus Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, RPT-S
17 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I use EMDR, ERP, play therapy, parts work, and CBT as part of a structured, evidence-based approach focused on addressing underlying issues and creating meaningful, lasting change.
Have you tried therapy before, only to feel like you were going in circles and still struggling with the same issues or reactions? I work with children, adolescents, and adults in Fort Worth who are experiencing trauma-related symptoms, dissociation, anxiety, phobias, OCD, and attachment difficulties. My approach focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying mechanisms that contribute to these challenges, rather than simply managing symptoms. Treatment is structured, evidence-based, and tailored to support meaningful, lasting change.
I use EMDR, ERP, play therapy, parts work, and CBT as part of a structured, evidence-based approach focused on addressing underlying issues and creating meaningful, lasting change.
Have you tried therapy before, only to feel like you were going in circles and still struggling with the same issues or reactions? I work with children, adolescents, and adults in Fort Worth who are experiencing trauma-related symptoms, dissociation, anxiety, phobias, OCD, and attachment difficulties. My approach focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying mechanisms that contribute to these challenges, rather than simply managing symptoms. Treatment is structured, evidence-based, and tailored to support meaningful, lasting change.
(817) 587-0415 View (817) 587-0415
Photo of Leah Elizabeth Webb, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Leah Elizabeth Webb
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My therapeutic specialties include CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
My ideal client is someone who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma. Regardless of age, they may be experiencing symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and/or changes in mood. Together, we will determine unique goals that address these concerns, using a person centered and trauma informed approach.
My therapeutic specialties include CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
My ideal client is someone who may be struggling with anxiety, depression, or trauma. Regardless of age, they may be experiencing symptoms associated with post-traumatic stress disorder, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and/or changes in mood. Together, we will determine unique goals that address these concerns, using a person centered and trauma informed approach.
(817) 784-7267 View (817) 784-7267
Photo of Jessica Bolden - Jessica Bolden Psychotherapy Group, PLLC, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CST
Jessica Bolden Psychotherapy Group, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, CST
11 Endorsed
Serves Area
I am also Gottman Trained and EMDR Trained.
I understand how hard it can be to find help. You want someone to hear you, validate your feelings, and give you the tools you need to make your relationship successful, all in a nonjudgmental environment. I love helping my clients have healthier relationships. As a Gottman trained counselor, I can help you break down the walls that have been created in your relationship that divide you and your partner by utilizing research based techniques. I use the Gottman Connect assessments with couples, which measure success or struggles in key areas such as friendship, intimacy, conflict resolution, household chores, parenting & more.
I am also Gottman Trained and EMDR Trained.
I understand how hard it can be to find help. You want someone to hear you, validate your feelings, and give you the tools you need to make your relationship successful, all in a nonjudgmental environment. I love helping my clients have healthier relationships. As a Gottman trained counselor, I can help you break down the walls that have been created in your relationship that divide you and your partner by utilizing research based techniques. I use the Gottman Connect assessments with couples, which measure success or struggles in key areas such as friendship, intimacy, conflict resolution, household chores, parenting & more.
(469) 771-0885 View (469) 771-0885
Photo of John Smith, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MMFT, EMDR
John Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MMFT, EMDR
Online Only
I use EMDR for trauma processing, along with narrative therapy, solution-focused strategies, and CBT elements to promote insight, resilience, and meaningful change.
Having lived in multiple places, including abroad, I understand the emotional demands of starting over, adapting, and finding a sense of belonging. This perspective shapes my approach and helps me connect with clients experiencing transition or displacement.
I use EMDR for trauma processing, along with narrative therapy, solution-focused strategies, and CBT elements to promote insight, resilience, and meaningful change.
Having lived in multiple places, including abroad, I understand the emotional demands of starting over, adapting, and finding a sense of belonging. This perspective shapes my approach and helps me connect with clients experiencing transition or displacement.
(817) 674-3225 View (817) 674-3225
Photo of Kimberlee Tucker Rodgers, Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, EMDR
Kimberlee Tucker Rodgers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, EMDR
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I use therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, EMDR, and Wellness Coaching.
You're holding it all together-but inside, if feels like too much. Maybe your mind won't slow down, you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or not quite like yourself. You don't have to keep doing this alone. I specialize in counseling for women navigating anxiety, trauma, depression, and the emotional ups and downs that come with perinatal and postpartum seasons. I work with women who are used to being the strong one-the one everyone depends on-while quietly carrying anxiety, emotional weight, or the lasting effects of trauma. I see many women in the perinatal/postpartum stage, feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of themselves.
I use therapies such as Cognitive Behavioral, Solution Focused, EMDR, and Wellness Coaching.
You're holding it all together-but inside, if feels like too much. Maybe your mind won't slow down, you feel overwhelmed, anxious, or not quite like yourself. You don't have to keep doing this alone. I specialize in counseling for women navigating anxiety, trauma, depression, and the emotional ups and downs that come with perinatal and postpartum seasons. I work with women who are used to being the strong one-the one everyone depends on-while quietly carrying anxiety, emotional weight, or the lasting effects of trauma. I see many women in the perinatal/postpartum stage, feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure of themselves.
(214) 519-8846 View (214) 519-8846
Photo of Nikki Rosonet, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Nikki Rosonet
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
We live in a world where we are expected to do it all, perfectly, and without struggling. We are constantly comparing ourselves to others and we declare ourselves "not good enough." These feelings tend to dictate our response to those around us, so that we are really just reacting to what is going on behind the scenes without even realizing it. I believe that a lot of the issues that present on the surface -- family issues, addiction, depression, and anxiety -- can be treated by focusing on overcoming shame, negative self-talk, and trauma. If this can be done, then the chances of improving your quality of life increases.
We live in a world where we are expected to do it all, perfectly, and without struggling. We are constantly comparing ourselves to others and we declare ourselves "not good enough." These feelings tend to dictate our response to those around us, so that we are really just reacting to what is going on behind the scenes without even realizing it. I believe that a lot of the issues that present on the surface -- family issues, addiction, depression, and anxiety -- can be treated by focusing on overcoming shame, negative self-talk, and trauma. If this can be done, then the chances of improving your quality of life increases.
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Photo of Ali Cabral, Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed
Ali Cabral
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
In therapy, I use a mix of CBT, EMDR, Person-Centered Therapy, and IFS to help you create lasting change.
Are you a preteen, teen, college, or young adult woman feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or parenting challenges? I also provide support for children navigating emotional struggles. Whether you're facing school pressures, relationship challenges, or transitions, I’m here to guide you through it. Together, we’ll strengthen your emotional resilience, build self-esteem, and develop practical strategies to manage stress and anxiety. You'll gain confidence in setting boundaries, making empowered decisions, and living a balanced, fulfilling life. Let’s work together to help you feel more in control and ready to achieve your goals.
In therapy, I use a mix of CBT, EMDR, Person-Centered Therapy, and IFS to help you create lasting change.
Are you a preteen, teen, college, or young adult woman feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, stress, or parenting challenges? I also provide support for children navigating emotional struggles. Whether you're facing school pressures, relationship challenges, or transitions, I’m here to guide you through it. Together, we’ll strengthen your emotional resilience, build self-esteem, and develop practical strategies to manage stress and anxiety. You'll gain confidence in setting boundaries, making empowered decisions, and living a balanced, fulfilling life. Let’s work together to help you feel more in control and ready to achieve your goals.
(682) 868-3861 View (682) 868-3861
Photo of Ana Lucero Chico, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Ana Lucero Chico
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MS, NCC
Serves Area
Using evidence-based methods such as Trauma Focused-CBT and EMDR.
Life can bring a mix of challenges, from stress, past experiences, or big changes, that can leave you feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to make sense of it all. At times, it may feel like you're balancing expectations or different parts of your identity while trying to understand your emotions. Sometimes it can just simply be hard to put into words what you're feeling, you just know something feels heavy or overwhelming. Whether you're a pre-teen, adolescent, or adult, you deserve a space where you can feel heard, respected, and supported without judgement. That's where I come in!
Using evidence-based methods such as Trauma Focused-CBT and EMDR.
Life can bring a mix of challenges, from stress, past experiences, or big changes, that can leave you feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to make sense of it all. At times, it may feel like you're balancing expectations or different parts of your identity while trying to understand your emotions. Sometimes it can just simply be hard to put into words what you're feeling, you just know something feels heavy or overwhelming. Whether you're a pre-teen, adolescent, or adult, you deserve a space where you can feel heard, respected, and supported without judgement. That's where I come in!
(817) 873-6199 View (817) 873-6199
Photo of Karina Rumans, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Karina Rumans
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
8 Endorsed
Serves Area
Are you feeling stuck in overwhelming emotions, navigating a major life transition, or struggling to heal from past experiences? I help individuals reclaim their voice, rebuild resilience, and envision a future where they feel empowered and hopeful. My approach is grounded in the belief that you are the expert of your story. My role is to collaborate with you, helping you uncover strengths and resources to create lasting change. Working together, you can expect a safe, nonjudgmental space where you’re heard, collaborative goal-setting to plan a path towards your preferred future, and a strengths-based focus to build your resilience.
Are you feeling stuck in overwhelming emotions, navigating a major life transition, or struggling to heal from past experiences? I help individuals reclaim their voice, rebuild resilience, and envision a future where they feel empowered and hopeful. My approach is grounded in the belief that you are the expert of your story. My role is to collaborate with you, helping you uncover strengths and resources to create lasting change. Working together, you can expect a safe, nonjudgmental space where you’re heard, collaborative goal-setting to plan a path towards your preferred future, and a strengths-based focus to build your resilience.
(817) 670-4117 View (817) 670-4117
Photo of Sarah Wellborn, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Sarah Wellborn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
4 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR, CBT, solutions-focused, and client-centered therapies have helped my clients grow and thrive.
You are here, so you must be looking to get some help for yourself or someone you care about! Congratulations! You are already through the worst of it – deciding to seek out help. Now, onto the next step – living a more free, happy, and fulfilling life! I am here to help and serve as your guide. Imagine less depression, less anxiety, and less self-doubt. Let’s explore new ways of coping with life’s obstacles. In learning new ways to cope and manage life, you will evolve and become more self-aware. You will be ready take charge of your life!
EMDR, CBT, solutions-focused, and client-centered therapies have helped my clients grow and thrive.
You are here, so you must be looking to get some help for yourself or someone you care about! Congratulations! You are already through the worst of it – deciding to seek out help. Now, onto the next step – living a more free, happy, and fulfilling life! I am here to help and serve as your guide. Imagine less depression, less anxiety, and less self-doubt. Let’s explore new ways of coping with life’s obstacles. In learning new ways to cope and manage life, you will evolve and become more self-aware. You will be ready take charge of your life!
(817) 203-4779 View (817) 203-4779
Photo of Ricardo E. Contreras, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Ricardo E. Contreras
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
“Our scars can destroy us, even after the physical wounds healed. But if we can survive them, they can even transform us. They can give us the power to endure and the strength to fight” - Batman, 2021. After you've experienced trauma you live in a different universe, you see the world differently. Only what you feel is real. Traumatized minds are directed by emotions and misinterpret logic. I work best with those who are highly imaginative, creative, and ready to confront their past.
“Our scars can destroy us, even after the physical wounds healed. But if we can survive them, they can even transform us. They can give us the power to endure and the strength to fight” - Batman, 2021. After you've experienced trauma you live in a different universe, you see the world differently. Only what you feel is real. Traumatized minds are directed by emotions and misinterpret logic. I work best with those who are highly imaginative, creative, and ready to confront their past.
(817) 585-8401 View (817) 585-8401
Photo of Dayna Nelson, Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Dayna Nelson
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Serves Area
I have specialized training in trauma and EMDR.
Are you interested in a holistic approach to resolving anxiety, fear, emotional trauma, hopelessness, or loss of energy and motivation? Are you interested in learning more natural ways to improve your brain functioning? Would you like to learn better coping strategies or how to use your faith to overcome your difficulties? Are you having difficulty with your relationships or suffered a loss? I help adults with the above problems using a holistic approach with trauma informed care.
I have specialized training in trauma and EMDR.
Are you interested in a holistic approach to resolving anxiety, fear, emotional trauma, hopelessness, or loss of energy and motivation? Are you interested in learning more natural ways to improve your brain functioning? Would you like to learn better coping strategies or how to use your faith to overcome your difficulties? Are you having difficulty with your relationships or suffered a loss? I help adults with the above problems using a holistic approach with trauma informed care.
(214) 273-4787 View (214) 273-4787

See more therapy options for Benbrook

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.