EMDR Therapists in Carrollton, VA

Photo of Kristy Livsey, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Kristy Livsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carrollton, VA 23314
I use an integrative approach combining CBT to help you understand how thoughts influence emotions, DBT-informed techniques to develop coping skills, and EMDR to heal past trauma.
You’re doing all you can, but it feels like you're unraveling. Maybe you’re stuck in anxious thoughts that won’t quiet down, haunted by past experiences, navigating a life stressor, or parenting a child whose struggles leave you feeling helpless. It’s exhausting holding it all together when your mind and body are asking for relief. It can be painful to watch your child overwhelmed by big emotions they don’t understand -resulting in meltdowns or clinginess. Therapy can be a place to breathe again, understand the weight you're carrying, and begin to feel like yourself —stronger and in control.
I use an integrative approach combining CBT to help you understand how thoughts influence emotions, DBT-informed techniques to develop coping skills, and EMDR to heal past trauma.
You’re doing all you can, but it feels like you're unraveling. Maybe you’re stuck in anxious thoughts that won’t quiet down, haunted by past experiences, navigating a life stressor, or parenting a child whose struggles leave you feeling helpless. It’s exhausting holding it all together when your mind and body are asking for relief. It can be painful to watch your child overwhelmed by big emotions they don’t understand -resulting in meltdowns or clinginess. Therapy can be a place to breathe again, understand the weight you're carrying, and begin to feel like yourself —stronger and in control.
(757) 767-5267 View (757) 767-5267
Photo of Kasey Sokol, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Kasey Sokol
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR Therapy).
I believe in the importance of a person’s story and meeting each person where they are in the present moment, while honoring experiences from the past. There are often events or themes within a person’s childhood that can lead them to experience difficulties later in their lives if left unresolved. These difficulties often appear in the form of unhealthy traits or toxic cycles within romantic relationships or friendships. Other times, there are negative thoughts such as “I should have known better” or “I always do something wrong” that constantly circle in a person’s mind.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR Therapy).
I believe in the importance of a person’s story and meeting each person where they are in the present moment, while honoring experiences from the past. There are often events or themes within a person’s childhood that can lead them to experience difficulties later in their lives if left unresolved. These difficulties often appear in the form of unhealthy traits or toxic cycles within romantic relationships or friendships. Other times, there are negative thoughts such as “I should have known better” or “I always do something wrong” that constantly circle in a person’s mind.
(757) 384-1656 View (757) 384-1656
Photo of Kendra M Griffin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Kendra M Griffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
My expertise lies in utilizing practices such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I have a particular passion for helping individuals who feel trapped or consumed by their past experiences. I often work with people with fear based belief systems. Fear based belief systems often arise from past experiences, or personal insecurities leading you to perceive the world through a lens of apprehension or anxiety. Clients come to me for help with feelings of inadequacy, failure, rejection or lack of control. We work together to identify and shift these beliefs as a part of personal development and growth.
My expertise lies in utilizing practices such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), to Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
I have a particular passion for helping individuals who feel trapped or consumed by their past experiences. I often work with people with fear based belief systems. Fear based belief systems often arise from past experiences, or personal insecurities leading you to perceive the world through a lens of apprehension or anxiety. Clients come to me for help with feelings of inadequacy, failure, rejection or lack of control. We work together to identify and shift these beliefs as a part of personal development and growth.
(540) 516-5022 View (540) 516-5022

More Therapists Nearby

Christine Musello, Psy.D.
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR.
Update April 2025: Currently, meetings are through telehealth only. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, veteran history, relationships, and PTSD (both acute and chronic) are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope most to meet.
I am trained in EMDR.
Update April 2025: Currently, meetings are through telehealth only. I currently work with teens, young adults, and adults. Mood disorders, veteran history, relationships, and PTSD (both acute and chronic) are areas of clinical interest. Those who seek to be responsible for their own happiness, whether through acceptance or through efforts to change and grow, are the people I hope most to meet.
(757) 654-1664 View (757) 654-1664
Photo of Gabrielle Pascual, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Gabrielle Pascual
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Smithfield, VA 23430
Gabrielle specializes in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy) in this approach she works with individuals to reduce their feelings and symptoms associated with their trauma and helps guides them towards healing.
Gabrielle is a licensed therapist working at Smithfield Christian Counseling; she has a desire to help people become a better version of themselves by working with their past experiences to develop new patterns of thinking to help foster lasting change. Gabrielle counsels’ individuals of all ages, however she has a special passion for working with partners and couples at various stages in their relationship.
Gabrielle specializes in EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy) in this approach she works with individuals to reduce their feelings and symptoms associated with their trauma and helps guides them towards healing.
Gabrielle is a licensed therapist working at Smithfield Christian Counseling; she has a desire to help people become a better version of themselves by working with their past experiences to develop new patterns of thinking to help foster lasting change. Gabrielle counsels’ individuals of all ages, however she has a special passion for working with partners and couples at various stages in their relationship.
(757) 231-3012 View (757) 231-3012
Photo of Justina Lambert, Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Justina Lambert
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Online Only
I am an EMDR Trained LPC.
If you want something you've never had, you must be willing to do something you've never done.- Anonymous. Change is HARD! As your therapist, I am fully invested in collaborating with you through your evolution in order to promote lasting change. I love cultivating an affirming and genuine safe space that is supportive, authentic, and empowering.
I am an EMDR Trained LPC.
If you want something you've never had, you must be willing to do something you've never done.- Anonymous. Change is HARD! As your therapist, I am fully invested in collaborating with you through your evolution in order to promote lasting change. I love cultivating an affirming and genuine safe space that is supportive, authentic, and empowering.
(757) 267-6445 View (757) 267-6445
Photo of Melanie Mosbarger, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CTTS
Melanie Mosbarger
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CTTS
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Trauma Treatment Specialist, EMDR Certified Therapist, and I'm a board approved supervisor for counselors working towards their LPC.
I now offer EMDR intensives to provide support for recent incidents or past childhood wounds that are still impacting you today. An EMDR intensive can range from 1 - 3 days of 6 hours of EMDR. The results are quicker and faster symptom reduction. If you are interested in learning more please schedule a free 20 minute consultation.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Certified Trauma Treatment Specialist, EMDR Certified Therapist, and I'm a board approved supervisor for counselors working towards their LPC.
I now offer EMDR intensives to provide support for recent incidents or past childhood wounds that are still impacting you today. An EMDR intensive can range from 1 - 3 days of 6 hours of EMDR. The results are quicker and faster symptom reduction. If you are interested in learning more please schedule a free 20 minute consultation.
(757) 210-7593 View (757) 210-7593
Photo of Tricia Verno, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Tricia Verno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
For issues that require deeper work, I use Attachment-Focused EMDR (more developmental and attachment based than standard EMDR).
For over 16 years, it’s been a privilege for me to be a therapist. My passion is helping clients heal from different types of stressors, relational issues, and traumas (PTSD, complex-developmental, generational, attachment, religious, etc). These issues often lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsive/addictive behaviors, eating disorders, and personality disorders – all which I have experience and success in working with. I am only doing Telehealth (virtual therapy) at this time and can see clients who live in Virginia.
For issues that require deeper work, I use Attachment-Focused EMDR (more developmental and attachment based than standard EMDR).
For over 16 years, it’s been a privilege for me to be a therapist. My passion is helping clients heal from different types of stressors, relational issues, and traumas (PTSD, complex-developmental, generational, attachment, religious, etc). These issues often lead to symptoms of anxiety, depression, impulsive/addictive behaviors, eating disorders, and personality disorders – all which I have experience and success in working with. I am only doing Telehealth (virtual therapy) at this time and can see clients who live in Virginia.
(804) 376-1298 View (804) 376-1298
Photo of Dani Murphy, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Dani Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chesapeake, VA 23320
I am an EMDR trained, trauma informed provider who uses integrations of psychotherapy and body work to treat trauma.
Are you ready to break free from the chains of your past? Have you struggled to find a therapist who truly understands the depth of your pain and the complexity of your trauma? As a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist specializing in trauma treatment, I'm here to guide you on your path towards healing, empowerment, and reclaiming your life.
I am an EMDR trained, trauma informed provider who uses integrations of psychotherapy and body work to treat trauma.
Are you ready to break free from the chains of your past? Have you struggled to find a therapist who truly understands the depth of your pain and the complexity of your trauma? As a compassionate and experienced psychotherapist specializing in trauma treatment, I'm here to guide you on your path towards healing, empowerment, and reclaiming your life.
(757) 255-7385 View (757) 255-7385
Photo of Bertresh London Nunez - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chesapeake, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Chesapeake
Counselor
Verified Verified
Chesapeake, VA 23321
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(757) 832-7127 View (757) 832-7127
Photo of Mihoko Taniguchi-Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mihoko Taniguchi-Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
These include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, and motivational interviewing.
Hello, I'm Mihoko. Seeking help takes courage, and I am here to provide a safe, welcoming space that encourages healing and positive change. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals and families dealing with anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, and disruptive behavior/parenting concerns. Currently, I am licensed in California and Virginia. For the past 17 years, I have been dedicated to providing individual counseling to those experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues.
These include Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), trauma-focused CBT, and motivational interviewing.
Hello, I'm Mihoko. Seeking help takes courage, and I am here to provide a safe, welcoming space that encourages healing and positive change. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with individuals and families dealing with anxiety, mood disorders, life transitions, and disruptive behavior/parenting concerns. Currently, I am licensed in California and Virginia. For the past 17 years, I have been dedicated to providing individual counseling to those experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues.
(571) 506-0173 View (571) 506-0173
Photo of Chris Doriani, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA , ACSW, LCSW
Chris Doriani
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA , ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
Using tools like EMDR, you’ll learn to soothe yourself, breathe deeply, and push away self-defeating thoughts.
It seems impossible that anyone could fully understand what you’ve been through, never mind help. Your traumatic memories are so painful that you’ve had to shut them off and hide them away. So, you stay busy and keep yourself focused on meeting OTHER people’s needs. Your family and friends appreciate it, of course. And it feels good to you, too… until there’s no one around to distract you from the pain. Pretending everything is “okay” is one of the few things that makes you feel safe. Sharing your life experience and story would be too risky, as it could harm the relationships you hold dear. It’s a lonely way to live.
Using tools like EMDR, you’ll learn to soothe yourself, breathe deeply, and push away self-defeating thoughts.
It seems impossible that anyone could fully understand what you’ve been through, never mind help. Your traumatic memories are so painful that you’ve had to shut them off and hide them away. So, you stay busy and keep yourself focused on meeting OTHER people’s needs. Your family and friends appreciate it, of course. And it feels good to you, too… until there’s no one around to distract you from the pain. Pretending everything is “okay” is one of the few things that makes you feel safe. Sharing your life experience and story would be too risky, as it could harm the relationships you hold dear. It’s a lonely way to live.
(757) 834-8879 View (757) 834-8879
Photo of Heather Menasco, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Heather Menasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I often use a combination of EMDR, IFS, and other Trauma informed therapies.
Thank you for considering me as a part of your journey towards healing. I understand choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision. Often times, mental illness leads to isolation. You are not alone. Individuals often experience unpleasant symptoms associated with trauma or adverse life events that often lead to mental disorders. Often times, depression, anxiety, and other trauma-related symptoms are often linked in some way to stressful life events, generational trauma, or hereditary factors. I offer the expertise to help you connect with your inner and external strengths to become your best version of you.
I often use a combination of EMDR, IFS, and other Trauma informed therapies.
Thank you for considering me as a part of your journey towards healing. I understand choosing a therapist is a deeply personal decision. Often times, mental illness leads to isolation. You are not alone. Individuals often experience unpleasant symptoms associated with trauma or adverse life events that often lead to mental disorders. Often times, depression, anxiety, and other trauma-related symptoms are often linked in some way to stressful life events, generational trauma, or hereditary factors. I offer the expertise to help you connect with your inner and external strengths to become your best version of you.
(806) 230-5924 View (806) 230-5924
Photo of Dr. LaToya Nicole Edwards, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, RYT
Dr. LaToya Nicole Edwards
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23462
Using Brainspotting & EMDR, we'll process difficult experiences and break old patterns.
I invite you to take a moment and ask yourself: Are you the ‘strong one’ but secretly exhausted? Achieving success but still feeling unfulfilled? Stuck in survival mode, unable to relax? Struggling with perfectionism or boundaries at the expense of your well-being? Seeking a culturally sensitive, safe space to release emotional burdens? Longing for alignment without constant pressure? Tried therapy but need a holistic approach? Ready to rewrite your story from silent struggle to empowered success? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore how I can support you.
Using Brainspotting & EMDR, we'll process difficult experiences and break old patterns.
I invite you to take a moment and ask yourself: Are you the ‘strong one’ but secretly exhausted? Achieving success but still feeling unfulfilled? Stuck in survival mode, unable to relax? Struggling with perfectionism or boundaries at the expense of your well-being? Seeking a culturally sensitive, safe space to release emotional burdens? Longing for alignment without constant pressure? Tried therapy but need a holistic approach? Ready to rewrite your story from silent struggle to empowered success? If you answered ‘yes’ to any of these, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore how I can support you.
(757) 384-9640 View (757) 384-9640
Photo of Rachel Stewart - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Virginia Beach, Counselor
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(757) 919-8858 View (757) 919-8858
Photo of Diana Burns, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Diana Burns
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Online Only
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR and Psychodynamic interventions.
I believe therapy should be a safe place where a person can explore personal issues and find solutions that will last a lifetime. I provide listening, validation, feedback, intervention, and collaboration to help clients to achieve their goals.
I primarily use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR and Psychodynamic interventions.
I believe therapy should be a safe place where a person can explore personal issues and find solutions that will last a lifetime. I provide listening, validation, feedback, intervention, and collaboration to help clients to achieve their goals.
(571) 322-8160 View (571) 322-8160
Photo of Nikki Coulter, Resident in Counseling, MS
Nikki Coulter
Resident in Counseling, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I have a background in bodywork and training in Somatic Experiencing (SE) and EMDR.
Are you seeking relief from the profound impact stress and trauma have in your life? My clients and my training have shown me how stress and trauma impact the mind and the physical body, in the form of anxiety, chronic pain, frequent stomach upset and more. Relief and healing can happen without constantly retelling the trauma story. The methods I use include a blend of talk therapy and mindfulness practices that encourage a gentle exploration of issues.
I have a background in bodywork and training in Somatic Experiencing (SE) and EMDR.
Are you seeking relief from the profound impact stress and trauma have in your life? My clients and my training have shown me how stress and trauma impact the mind and the physical body, in the form of anxiety, chronic pain, frequent stomach upset and more. Relief and healing can happen without constantly retelling the trauma story. The methods I use include a blend of talk therapy and mindfulness practices that encourage a gentle exploration of issues.
View
Photo of Megan McCormack, Licensed Professional Counselor, ESMHL
Megan McCormack
Licensed Professional Counselor, ESMHL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Virginia Beach, VA 23455
I am EMDR trained and specialize in equine assisted psychotherapy, so I utilize traditional therapy models in tandem with horse interactions to facilitate powerful growth and healing!
Horses aren't your thing? I offer virtual sessions, as well as sessions in a beautiful farm setting where you can soak in the peacefulness of nature and regulate your nervous system. There are so many benefits to taking time outside!
I am EMDR trained and specialize in equine assisted psychotherapy, so I utilize traditional therapy models in tandem with horse interactions to facilitate powerful growth and healing!
Horses aren't your thing? I offer virtual sessions, as well as sessions in a beautiful farm setting where you can soak in the peacefulness of nature and regulate your nervous system. There are so many benefits to taking time outside!
(757) 821-5232 View (757) 821-5232
Photo of Parker Bowling, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Parker Bowling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I am ACT and IFS-informed and trained in EMDR.
Are you feeling stuck in your healing journey, progress in therapy or life in general? I specialize in supporting people who are ready to take a different approach to therapy that gets to the root causes of your challenges, including internal struggles like depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts and trauma, as well as their intersection with external stressors like climate change and political instability. Rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis, we will work together to understand the origins of your suffering and then co-create an actionable path towards both healing and living a more meaningful life.
I am ACT and IFS-informed and trained in EMDR.
Are you feeling stuck in your healing journey, progress in therapy or life in general? I specialize in supporting people who are ready to take a different approach to therapy that gets to the root causes of your challenges, including internal struggles like depression, anxiety, relationship conflicts and trauma, as well as their intersection with external stressors like climate change and political instability. Rather than focusing solely on a diagnosis, we will work together to understand the origins of your suffering and then co-create an actionable path towards both healing and living a more meaningful life.
(502) 218-4255 View (502) 218-4255
Photo of Phyllis Burgin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Phyllis Burgin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Online Only
Phyllis uses a variety of evidence-based modalities that incorporate best practices from DBT, Psychoeducation, Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Short-term Problem Solving, Person-Centered, Functioning Family Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Motivational Interviewing with adolescents, adults, and families.
Phyllis A. Burgin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, holds a Master’s in Social Work from George Mason University. She has over 15 years of clinical experience across various settings, including outpatient clinics, crisis intervention, inpatient psychiatric, school-based, and community-based counseling.
Phyllis uses a variety of evidence-based modalities that incorporate best practices from DBT, Psychoeducation, Cognitive Behavioral, Solution-Focused, Short-term Problem Solving, Person-Centered, Functioning Family Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Motivational Interviewing with adolescents, adults, and families.
Phyllis A. Burgin, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, holds a Master’s in Social Work from George Mason University. She has over 15 years of clinical experience across various settings, including outpatient clinics, crisis intervention, inpatient psychiatric, school-based, and community-based counseling.
(703) 686-8262 View (703) 686-8262

See more therapy options for Carrollton

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.