EMDR Therapists in Warrenton, VA

Photo of Deborah Vara, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
Deborah Vara
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
Clients come to me looking for a therapist who treats anxiety and trauma using various methods such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, and Exposure, because therapy should be a place where you feel safe and heard.
Do you find yourself broken, uncertain with your future and how to heal from your trauma? You second guess your relationships, and have difficulty trusting others? You want to appear like you have it all together, but you are struggling to feel purpose, and life full of peace and happiness. You may be fed up with the inability to move forward from traumatic events, feeling alone or not enough. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to get unstuck and challenge yourself. Most of all, you’re ready to gain acceptance, confidence and peace.
Clients come to me looking for a therapist who treats anxiety and trauma using various methods such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, and Exposure, because therapy should be a place where you feel safe and heard.
Do you find yourself broken, uncertain with your future and how to heal from your trauma? You second guess your relationships, and have difficulty trusting others? You want to appear like you have it all together, but you are struggling to feel purpose, and life full of peace and happiness. You may be fed up with the inability to move forward from traumatic events, feeling alone or not enough. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to get unstuck and challenge yourself. Most of all, you’re ready to gain acceptance, confidence and peace.
(540) 405-6714 View (540) 405-6714
Photo of Patrick Lee Gibbons, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
Patrick Lee Gibbons
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MMFT, MAR
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187
I am an LPC with a Master degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I also possess a Seminary Master degree in Biblical Studies to provide faith-based therapeutic support. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis. I am also trained in EMDR. Further trained to treat substance, alcohol and sexual issues. I work with individuals, couples and families. I have a passion for trauma work with all ages, knowing untreated trauma-events are emotional wounds that need be processed to allow for healing. I am currently paneled with most insurances in Virginia.
I am an LPC with a Master degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I also possess a Seminary Master degree in Biblical Studies to provide faith-based therapeutic support. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis. I am also trained in EMDR. Further trained to treat substance, alcohol and sexual issues. I work with individuals, couples and families. I have a passion for trauma work with all ages, knowing untreated trauma-events are emotional wounds that need be processed to allow for healing. I am currently paneled with most insurances in Virginia.
(540) 579-0593 View (540) 579-0593
Photo of Integrative Psychotherapy & EMDR, Psychologist in Warrenton, VA
Integrative Psychotherapy & EMDR
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
Trauma/EMDR Therapist, Harvard-trained: PTSD, Grief & Loss, Childhood Abuse, Medical/Dental, Military, Police/EMS Critical Incident, Hospital Staff/ICU. Psychological Evaluation for Adults 18+. Holistic Approach: Mind-Body-Spirit. Member, Harvard University Healthcare Professionals Group.
Trauma/EMDR Therapist, Harvard-trained: PTSD, Grief & Loss, Childhood Abuse, Medical/Dental, Military, Police/EMS Critical Incident, Hospital Staff/ICU. Psychological Evaluation for Adults 18+. Holistic Approach: Mind-Body-Spirit. Member, Harvard University Healthcare Professionals Group.
(540) 609-2579 View (540) 609-2579
Photo of Heather Sauceda, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warrenton, VA
Heather Sauceda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
I offer a range of evidence-based services including EMDR, with a strong educational beginning if this is your first time with a counselor.
When faced with questions like "Can I handle this?" or "Why do I keep making these choices?" and statements such as "I don't think I can move past this," it's important to know that you're not alone. Many clients I work with share similar feelings and thoughts. Specializing in trauma, together we will find ways to navigate hardships and build bridges to recovery. With a blend of therapy, laughter, and levity, I help clients reframe and rebuild their personal stories. Whether you're struggling with codependency, trauma, or simply looking for understanding and growth, I am here to support you.
I offer a range of evidence-based services including EMDR, with a strong educational beginning if this is your first time with a counselor.
When faced with questions like "Can I handle this?" or "Why do I keep making these choices?" and statements such as "I don't think I can move past this," it's important to know that you're not alone. Many clients I work with share similar feelings and thoughts. Specializing in trauma, together we will find ways to navigate hardships and build bridges to recovery. With a blend of therapy, laughter, and levity, I help clients reframe and rebuild their personal stories. Whether you're struggling with codependency, trauma, or simply looking for understanding and growth, I am here to support you.
(540) 546-5458 View (540) 546-5458
Photo of Ceres Artico Ph. D., Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
Ceres Artico Ph. D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
All of us have the ability and desire to heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling, lives. However, at times we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. Dr. Artico has over 20 years of experience helping couples, adults and teens become who they were meant to be. She is the director of Gainesville Family Counseling, has taught at George Mason University, and is the author of the book Latino Families Broken by Immigration. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), clinical supervision, and sandtray therapy.
All of us have the ability and desire to heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling, lives. However, at times we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. Dr. Artico has over 20 years of experience helping couples, adults and teens become who they were meant to be. She is the director of Gainesville Family Counseling, has taught at George Mason University, and is the author of the book Latino Families Broken by Immigration. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), clinical supervision, and sandtray therapy.
(703) 947-0838 View (703) 947-0838
Photo of Mary Kirkpatrick, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
Mary Kirkpatrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20187
I can help in many different ways including EMDR, talk therapy, and play therapy.
We have a few openings for adults at this time. We especially have availability for morning appointments. I am an existential therapist dedicated to helping adults and children cope better with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life events, loss, trauma, and more. My goal is to help individuals, children, teens, adults, and couples solve their problems. I also help people of all ages manage their trauma, relieving bad memories with EMDR and parts work.
I can help in many different ways including EMDR, talk therapy, and play therapy.
We have a few openings for adults at this time. We especially have availability for morning appointments. I am an existential therapist dedicated to helping adults and children cope better with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life events, loss, trauma, and more. My goal is to help individuals, children, teens, adults, and couples solve their problems. I also help people of all ages manage their trauma, relieving bad memories with EMDR and parts work.
(540) 351-9685 View (540) 351-9685
Photo of Paws2Heal Mental Health Counseling Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
Paws2Heal Mental Health Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP II, NCC
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
I specialize in trauma processing through EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with an emphasis on helping clients understand their own physiology and how it impacts them emotionally and cognitively.
Exploring therapy is not an easy decision; therefore it is our mission to make therapy as open, comfortable, and effective as possible for each client. The first goal for each individual entering my practice is to establish an environment of comfort and safety. For those interested, therapy animals are available to provide additional support throughout the experience. Each person who enters my practice is embraced as an individual, and the therapeutic experience is tailored specifically to best meet each person's needs.
I specialize in trauma processing through EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with an emphasis on helping clients understand their own physiology and how it impacts them emotionally and cognitively.
Exploring therapy is not an easy decision; therefore it is our mission to make therapy as open, comfortable, and effective as possible for each client. The first goal for each individual entering my practice is to establish an environment of comfort and safety. For those interested, therapy animals are available to provide additional support throughout the experience. Each person who enters my practice is embraced as an individual, and the therapeutic experience is tailored specifically to best meet each person's needs.
(540) 426-3337 View (540) 426-3337
Photo of Kate Ashley Lankford, Resident in Counseling in Warrenton, VA
Kate Ashley Lankford
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
One of the modalities that I use to process trauma is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
There are many reasons people seek mental health care, perhaps they're going through a tough season in life or there has been complex trauma. Regardless of a client's reason for seeking therapy, my primary goal is to create a relationship supported by comfort and safety. I believe in collaborating with my clients to create a therapeutic plan that is specifically tailored to their individual needs and goals. For those interested I do offer a therapy animal to sit in on sessions and provide additional support.
One of the modalities that I use to process trauma is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
There are many reasons people seek mental health care, perhaps they're going through a tough season in life or there has been complex trauma. Regardless of a client's reason for seeking therapy, my primary goal is to create a relationship supported by comfort and safety. I believe in collaborating with my clients to create a therapeutic plan that is specifically tailored to their individual needs and goals. For those interested I do offer a therapy animal to sit in on sessions and provide additional support.
(540) 699-0073 View (540) 699-0073
Photo of Arminda Cheshier-Perch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warrenton, VA
Arminda Cheshier-Perch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MBA, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186  (Online Only)
I am rostered in Cognitive Processing Therapy and trained in EMDR, and Exposure Response Prevention.
Are you tired of feeling like you're just going through the motions, outwardly appearing fine but inwardly struggling with feelings of being stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, burned out, or depressed? You're not alone. Perhaps your story includes experiences of trauma, loss, burnout, mistreatment, dysfunction, chronic illness, emotional pain, or spiritual struggles. Whatever your story may be, you're seeking support because you recognize the importance of addressing your needs. Searching for a counselor is one of the many brave steps you are taking, and I congratulate you for taking this important step.
I am rostered in Cognitive Processing Therapy and trained in EMDR, and Exposure Response Prevention.
Are you tired of feeling like you're just going through the motions, outwardly appearing fine but inwardly struggling with feelings of being stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, burned out, or depressed? You're not alone. Perhaps your story includes experiences of trauma, loss, burnout, mistreatment, dysfunction, chronic illness, emotional pain, or spiritual struggles. Whatever your story may be, you're seeking support because you recognize the importance of addressing your needs. Searching for a counselor is one of the many brave steps you are taking, and I congratulate you for taking this important step.
(540) 469-5148 View (540) 469-5148
Photo of in Luck Counseling, LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
in Luck Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
Your journey in life has brought you to seek therapy from a professional. Therapy has the power to improve the quality of your life if you trust the process. Should you decide to hire me for this very important job, my focus will be on helping you feel strong and confident again. In the beginning, we will spend time listening to your story. We will then collaboratively identify realistic therapeutic goals.
Your journey in life has brought you to seek therapy from a professional. Therapy has the power to improve the quality of your life if you trust the process. Should you decide to hire me for this very important job, my focus will be on helping you feel strong and confident again. In the beginning, we will spend time listening to your story. We will then collaboratively identify realistic therapeutic goals.
(703) 997-6641 View (703) 997-6641
Photo of Mary Beth Williams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warrenton, VA
Mary Beth Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CTS
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
Working in the field of post-traumatic stress disorder with clients who have undergone a variety of events directly or indirectly has been both my specialty and my passion. I work with clients between the ages of 6 through seniors. I am the author of many articles and workbooks on trauma (The PTSD Workbook & Life After Trauma: A Workbook for Healing). I work a great deal with veterans of all wars and their families using a variety of techniques (cognitive behavioral therapy, belief challenging, narrative therapy and others.
Working in the field of post-traumatic stress disorder with clients who have undergone a variety of events directly or indirectly has been both my specialty and my passion. I work with clients between the ages of 6 through seniors. I am the author of many articles and workbooks on trauma (The PTSD Workbook & Life After Trauma: A Workbook for Healing). I work a great deal with veterans of all wars and their families using a variety of techniques (cognitive behavioral therapy, belief challenging, narrative therapy and others.
(540) 579-7225 View (540) 579-7225
Photo of Youth For Tomorrow, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
Youth For Tomorrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
We provide behavioral health services with professional excellence, Christian integrity, professional insight, and genuine compassion. Our staff is comprised of therapists with various credentials, backgrounds, trainings, and specialties, so we are able to offer a wide variety of treatment, including play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and behavioral intervention. Our staff includes psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinicians, therapists, and nurses.
We provide behavioral health services with professional excellence, Christian integrity, professional insight, and genuine compassion. Our staff is comprised of therapists with various credentials, backgrounds, trainings, and specialties, so we are able to offer a wide variety of treatment, including play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and behavioral intervention. Our staff includes psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinicians, therapists, and nurses.
(571) 595-3876 View (571) 595-3876
Photo of Gainesville Professional Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
Gainesville Professional Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187
We realize that this past year has been overwhelming for everyone. We are here to help support you while we all continue to try to navigate uncharted waters. We want to help you find balance in your life.
We realize that this past year has been overwhelming for everyone. We are here to help support you while we all continue to try to navigate uncharted waters. We want to help you find balance in your life.
(571) 261-1921 View (571) 261-1921

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Ruth Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warrenton, VA
Ruth Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Broad Run, VA 20137
Ruth Ritchie Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been practicing for the past 30 years in the therapeutic profession. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Masters in Social Work. Ruth's approach to your mental wellness is individualized to include several evidenced based approaches. Her main areas of focus include CBT, DBT, Insight, family systems and EMDR. In her spare time, she is an avid reader, enjoys kayaking around NOVA waterways, and spending time with family.
Ruth Ritchie Young is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who has been practicing for the past 30 years in the therapeutic profession. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Masters in Social Work. Ruth's approach to your mental wellness is individualized to include several evidenced based approaches. Her main areas of focus include CBT, DBT, Insight, family systems and EMDR. In her spare time, she is an avid reader, enjoys kayaking around NOVA waterways, and spending time with family.
(571) 581-6868 View (571) 581-6868
Photo of Sarah Theimer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
Sarah Theimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Gainesville, VA 20156  (Online Only)
I have training in and utilize evidenced based approaches to include Cognitive Processing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR.
Are you an adult who has been through a stressful experience? Do you continue to think about that stressful experience, have nightmares about it, or feel as if you are reliving it day after day? Living through a stressful or traumatic experience is hard enough; but to be weighed down and continuously thinking about and remembering those events even after they have ended can be even more taxing, draining, and confusing.
I have training in and utilize evidenced based approaches to include Cognitive Processing Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR.
Are you an adult who has been through a stressful experience? Do you continue to think about that stressful experience, have nightmares about it, or feel as if you are reliving it day after day? Living through a stressful or traumatic experience is hard enough; but to be weighed down and continuously thinking about and remembering those events even after they have ended can be even more taxing, draining, and confusing.
(571) 568-7332 View (571) 568-7332
Photo of Kaitlin Westerman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Warrenton, VA
Kaitlin Westerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haymarket, VA 20168
I use various modalities to fit the need of each person, including EMDR, Flash and CPT.
YOU can heal you! It’s not about what's wrong with you, it’s about what happened to you. Finding a safe space that encourages healing can be difficult to find and asking for help can be an intimidating prospect. I aim to help create a space where you can begin to reconnect with yourself, empowering all parts of you to choose the path YOU want. I want to help you approach emotions with curiosity and gentleness. Viewing behavior, thoughts, and feelings as techniques adapted to help us survive, we begin to move towards a place of acceptance. I want you to live a life free from emotional suffering, feeling stable in all areas of life.
I use various modalities to fit the need of each person, including EMDR, Flash and CPT.
YOU can heal you! It’s not about what's wrong with you, it’s about what happened to you. Finding a safe space that encourages healing can be difficult to find and asking for help can be an intimidating prospect. I aim to help create a space where you can begin to reconnect with yourself, empowering all parts of you to choose the path YOU want. I want to help you approach emotions with curiosity and gentleness. Viewing behavior, thoughts, and feelings as techniques adapted to help us survive, we begin to move towards a place of acceptance. I want you to live a life free from emotional suffering, feeling stable in all areas of life.
(571) 554-5246 View (571) 554-5246
Photo of The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Warrenton, VA
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital/precommitment therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, play therapy, trauma therapy, and EMDR.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital/precommitment therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, play therapy, trauma therapy, and EMDR.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
(703) 879-3275 View (703) 879-3275
Acadian Health Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
We provide trauma care, play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, child behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, substance abuse counseling, motivational interviewing, LGBTQ community support, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR services and more.
We are dedicated to providing excellence with the highest quality mental health professionals. Each of our providers have specialized in distinct areas of care and provide unique forms of evidenced based techniques. This offers you variety and enables us to tailor to your specific needs. We believe in a multidisciplinary approach to mental health which involves Licensed Professional Counselors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Psychologists, Social Workers and Acupuncturist.
We provide trauma care, play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, child behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, substance abuse counseling, motivational interviewing, LGBTQ community support, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR services and more.
We are dedicated to providing excellence with the highest quality mental health professionals. Each of our providers have specialized in distinct areas of care and provide unique forms of evidenced based techniques. This offers you variety and enables us to tailor to your specific needs. We believe in a multidisciplinary approach to mental health which involves Licensed Professional Counselors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Psychologists, Social Workers and Acupuncturist.
(571) 487-8206 View (571) 487-8206
Photo of Emily Horten, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
Emily Horten
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Gainesville, VA 20156
Not accepting new clients
I have been working in the therapeutic field for over 17 years providing an array of inpatient, home-based and outpatient services. I have experience treating children, adolescents and adults struggling with dysfunctional behavioral issues, substance abuse, depression and emotional regulation, as well as mental health and trauma-related issues, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I am adept at customizing and integrating various therapeutic techniques and tools for my clients to aid them in being successful during their life journey. I am passionate about helping others reach their goals of living their best life possible.
I have been working in the therapeutic field for over 17 years providing an array of inpatient, home-based and outpatient services. I have experience treating children, adolescents and adults struggling with dysfunctional behavioral issues, substance abuse, depression and emotional regulation, as well as mental health and trauma-related issues, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I am adept at customizing and integrating various therapeutic techniques and tools for my clients to aid them in being successful during their life journey. I am passionate about helping others reach their goals of living their best life possible.
(703) 721-4914 View (703) 721-4914

Online Therapists

Photo of Samantha Saunders, Licensed Professional Counselor in Warrenton, VA
Samantha Saunders
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Woodbridge, VA 22192  (Online Only)
She uses Brainspotting, EMDR, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
Samantha is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience working with individuals with trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, struggling with trusting themselves, and/or interpersonal relationship problems (narcissistic parents or past partners, unhealthy/toxic relationships). She specializes with adults 21 and up in using years of study and personal experience to assist clients in boundary-setting, healing, and thriving within themselves and their personal relationships.
She uses Brainspotting, EMDR, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
Samantha is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience working with individuals with trauma, anxiety, depression, life transitions, self-esteem, struggling with trusting themselves, and/or interpersonal relationship problems (narcissistic parents or past partners, unhealthy/toxic relationships). She specializes with adults 21 and up in using years of study and personal experience to assist clients in boundary-setting, healing, and thriving within themselves and their personal relationships.
(571) 200-8389 View (571) 200-8389
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.