EMDR Therapists in Madison, AL

Photo of Kendall Saunders, MA, ALC, NBCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kendall Saunders
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, ALC, NBCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35757  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma-informed psychodynamic therapy, and I am trained in EMDR; providing a holistic, evidence-based approach tailored to each individual client.
Hi, I'm Kendall, an associate licensed counselor in the Huntsville area and I'm glad you are here. Brene Brown once shared that, "Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” I believe that therapy provides a supported place to explore our story for the purpose of wholeness and healing.
I specialize in trauma-informed psychodynamic therapy, and I am trained in EMDR; providing a holistic, evidence-based approach tailored to each individual client.
Hi, I'm Kendall, an associate licensed counselor in the Huntsville area and I'm glad you are here. Brene Brown once shared that, "Owning our story can be hard but not nearly as difficult as spending our lives running from it. Embracing our vulnerabilities is risky but not nearly as dangerous as giving up on love and belonging and joy—the experiences that make us the most vulnerable. Only when we are brave enough to explore the darkness will we discover the infinite power of our light.” I believe that therapy provides a supported place to explore our story for the purpose of wholeness and healing.
(256) 626-6389 View (256) 626-6389
Photo of Kathryn M Hall, LICSW-S, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn M Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW-S, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
In addition to play therapy, I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT and ITR.
I and my team work primarily with children, parents, and guardians seeking support for navigating the complexities of traumatic experiences. Trauma can affect every aspect of a person’s life, and in children can often lead to maladaptive behaviors and emotional distress. Whether it be family disruptions, grief and loss, or more acute incidents, for children who have experienced trauma, play therapy is a powerful tool for their healing journey. The ultimate goal is to foster resilience, emotional regulation, increase healthy coping mechanisms, and restore a sense of security in you or your child’s life.
In addition to play therapy, I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT and ITR.
I and my team work primarily with children, parents, and guardians seeking support for navigating the complexities of traumatic experiences. Trauma can affect every aspect of a person’s life, and in children can often lead to maladaptive behaviors and emotional distress. Whether it be family disruptions, grief and loss, or more acute incidents, for children who have experienced trauma, play therapy is a powerful tool for their healing journey. The ultimate goal is to foster resilience, emotional regulation, increase healthy coping mechanisms, and restore a sense of security in you or your child’s life.
(256) 578-3089 View (256) 578-3089
Photo of Angie Gundolff, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angie Gundolff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
I offer EMDR as well as online counseling through a HIPAA compliant video conferencing system.
Hello, my name is Angie Gundolff and I work alongside Clients as they build a more fulfilling, authentic, and serene life. I help Clients to work through areas that they feel stuck in such as past trauma, grief, mental health symptoms, and relational issues. I have extra training and experience in working with adults and adolescents with trauma, stress/anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, depression, and codependency.
I offer EMDR as well as online counseling through a HIPAA compliant video conferencing system.
Hello, my name is Angie Gundolff and I work alongside Clients as they build a more fulfilling, authentic, and serene life. I help Clients to work through areas that they feel stuck in such as past trauma, grief, mental health symptoms, and relational issues. I have extra training and experience in working with adults and adolescents with trauma, stress/anxiety, addictions, relationship issues, depression, and codependency.
(256) 680-8891 View (256) 680-8891
Photo of Margaret Durham Bossaller, LICSW, ACHP-SW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Durham Bossaller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, ACHP-SW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
I am a licensed clinical independent social worker (LICSW) with over a decade of experience practicing as a therapist. I particularly enjoy working with individuals in times of significant transition and those seeking to heal trauma and/or burnout. My areas of specialization include perinatal and parental mental health, treatment of trauma and stress-related disorders, grief and loss, and providing affirming treatment for LGBTQ+ individuals. I presently hold certifications in perinatal mental health, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, and hospice and palliative care.
I am a licensed clinical independent social worker (LICSW) with over a decade of experience practicing as a therapist. I particularly enjoy working with individuals in times of significant transition and those seeking to heal trauma and/or burnout. My areas of specialization include perinatal and parental mental health, treatment of trauma and stress-related disorders, grief and loss, and providing affirming treatment for LGBTQ+ individuals. I presently hold certifications in perinatal mental health, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, and hospice and palliative care.
(256) 795-2999 View (256) 795-2999
Photo of Charles Montgomery, MA, CCTP, CART, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles Montgomery
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, CCTP, CART, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
Teletherapy is available. I utilize an eclectic variety of therapy EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT for those seeking resolution concerning past or current events, anxiety/stress of daily living, substance abuse, or any other distressing event you may have encountered. These sessions may focus on unresolved traumatic events, and sessions for adults with unresolved childhood trauma (sexual, physical, emotional, or neglect). I also offer 6 to 8 sessions teaching anger/communication management skills, 6 to 8 sessions on Mindfulness and Mindfulness Meditation for anxiety and depression,
Teletherapy is available. I utilize an eclectic variety of therapy EMDR, Mindfulness, CBT for those seeking resolution concerning past or current events, anxiety/stress of daily living, substance abuse, or any other distressing event you may have encountered. These sessions may focus on unresolved traumatic events, and sessions for adults with unresolved childhood trauma (sexual, physical, emotional, or neglect). I also offer 6 to 8 sessions teaching anger/communication management skills, 6 to 8 sessions on Mindfulness and Mindfulness Meditation for anxiety and depression,
(256) 278-2802 View (256) 278-2802
Photo of Teresa Prince, MA, NCC, LPC, BCN, ASAT, Counselor
Teresa Prince
Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, BCN, ASAT
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
I am fully certified in EMDR through EMDRIA, Neurofeedback BCN, and I have completed Level 3 trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, PACT Level 2, ERP, EFT, Brainspotting, and an authorized provider of Gottman LoveLab.
Are you struggling with addiction, or loving someone who is? Are you worn out from the chaos and despair of it all? Despair and isolation does not have to be your new normal. I have navigated the chaos and confusion of betrayal and worked through the process of rebuilding my marriage. I started counseling years ago to fix my husband and discovered the real me in the process and found a place of great hope, purpose, & freedom. Today I work with couples to design and rebuild the marriage of their dreams. There is nothing that scares me in the marriage therapy work if both partners are willing to prioritize their relationship.
I am fully certified in EMDR through EMDRIA, Neurofeedback BCN, and I have completed Level 3 trained in Gottman Method Couples Therapy, PACT Level 2, ERP, EFT, Brainspotting, and an authorized provider of Gottman LoveLab.
Are you struggling with addiction, or loving someone who is? Are you worn out from the chaos and despair of it all? Despair and isolation does not have to be your new normal. I have navigated the chaos and confusion of betrayal and worked through the process of rebuilding my marriage. I started counseling years ago to fix my husband and discovered the real me in the process and found a place of great hope, purpose, & freedom. Today I work with couples to design and rebuild the marriage of their dreams. There is nothing that scares me in the marriage therapy work if both partners are willing to prioritize their relationship.
(205) 272-5642 View (205) 272-5642
Photo of James Talbert Prince - Insights Counseling Center, LLC, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Insights Counseling Center, LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
Your Insights therapist will be trained in either EMDR or Brainspotting or both so that you can do any trauma work with your primary therapist.
We are a highly trained team of talented and compassionate therapists working together to bring the latest treatment and technology to individuals, couples and families dealing with the impact and wreckage of betrayal, sex and pornography addiction, and unresolved emotional trauma.
Your Insights therapist will be trained in either EMDR or Brainspotting or both so that you can do any trauma work with your primary therapist.
We are a highly trained team of talented and compassionate therapists working together to bring the latest treatment and technology to individuals, couples and families dealing with the impact and wreckage of betrayal, sex and pornography addiction, and unresolved emotional trauma.
(205) 651-2927 View (205) 651-2927
Photo of Shani Levy McBay, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shani Levy McBay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
I am certified in EMDR and have extensive training working with trauma.
Telehealth or In-Person option. When life becomes overwhelming everything can seem off balance. Have you been through tough experiences? Either recent or past that have had a lasting impact? I'm here to support you as you work through feelings and thoughts that might be bothering you. I also believe in the power of connecting your mind and body. That means I'm all about using techniques that involve both your thoughts and your physical sensations. You might find that these techniques help you feel more in tune with yourself and your emotions, and they can be pretty effective in helping you heal and grow.
I am certified in EMDR and have extensive training working with trauma.
Telehealth or In-Person option. When life becomes overwhelming everything can seem off balance. Have you been through tough experiences? Either recent or past that have had a lasting impact? I'm here to support you as you work through feelings and thoughts that might be bothering you. I also believe in the power of connecting your mind and body. That means I'm all about using techniques that involve both your thoughts and your physical sensations. You might find that these techniques help you feel more in tune with yourself and your emotions, and they can be pretty effective in helping you heal and grow.
(256) 474-2684 View (256) 474-2684
Photo of James P Desta, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
James P Desta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
I practice attachment-focused EMDR, so means I'm really interested in who you are and where you came from.
As both a therapist and a person, I understand that life sometimes serves up hard-to-categorize problems that can be overwhelming. I'm very familiar with issues like depression, anxiety, and addiction, and my training and certification in EMDR allows me to be especially effective with trauma resolution and attachment repair. My career started on a hospital behavioral health inpatient unit, which has allowed me to become comfortable with some pretty intense situations, but my background is varied and I work well with all ages. Therapy with me is relaxed yet focused - and I promise not to ask you how that makes you feel.
I practice attachment-focused EMDR, so means I'm really interested in who you are and where you came from.
As both a therapist and a person, I understand that life sometimes serves up hard-to-categorize problems that can be overwhelming. I'm very familiar with issues like depression, anxiety, and addiction, and my training and certification in EMDR allows me to be especially effective with trauma resolution and attachment repair. My career started on a hospital behavioral health inpatient unit, which has allowed me to become comfortable with some pretty intense situations, but my background is varied and I work well with all ages. Therapy with me is relaxed yet focused - and I promise not to ask you how that makes you feel.
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Photo of Morgan Granberry Johnson, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Morgan Granberry Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758
I most often use trauma or attachment based talk therapy, EMDR, and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), but I am also trained in Theraplay and utilize Autplay and other play therapy interventions.
This is the perfect place for anyone seeking non-judgmental support and understanding. I have extensive experience working with a variety of family dynamics - especially those with foster care or adoptions stories. I specialize in early life trauma, self-harm and suicidality, and family dynamics including interpersonal conflict and parenting. While I work with all ages, I specialize in working with older children, teenagers, and parents. My job to create the space and provide the tools for you to get to where you want to be with yourself and the important people in your life.
I most often use trauma or attachment based talk therapy, EMDR, and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), but I am also trained in Theraplay and utilize Autplay and other play therapy interventions.
This is the perfect place for anyone seeking non-judgmental support and understanding. I have extensive experience working with a variety of family dynamics - especially those with foster care or adoptions stories. I specialize in early life trauma, self-harm and suicidality, and family dynamics including interpersonal conflict and parenting. While I work with all ages, I specialize in working with older children, teenagers, and parents. My job to create the space and provide the tools for you to get to where you want to be with yourself and the important people in your life.
(256) 617-6617 View (256) 617-6617
Photo of Mizani Johnson, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mizani Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
Waitlist for new clients
My training in EMDR, Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT, among other evidenced-based techniques, allows me to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.
As a therapist, I am passionate about holistic healing and believe that Person-Centered therapy is an effective approach for supporting clients in their journey towards growth and well-being. I understand that counseling can be a transformative experience that encompasses physical, emotional, and mental aspects of a person's life. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. I strive to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect, which allows clients to explore their unique patterns of behavior, goals, and limitations.
My training in EMDR, Play Therapy, CBT, and DBT, among other evidenced-based techniques, allows me to tailor my approach to meet the unique needs of each client.
As a therapist, I am passionate about holistic healing and believe that Person-Centered therapy is an effective approach for supporting clients in their journey towards growth and well-being. I understand that counseling can be a transformative experience that encompasses physical, emotional, and mental aspects of a person's life. My goal is to provide a safe and supportive space where clients can explore their thoughts and feelings without judgment. I strive to build a therapeutic relationship based on trust and respect, which allows clients to explore their unique patterns of behavior, goals, and limitations.
(256) 719-2305 View (256) 719-2305
Photo of Stephanie Cashin, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Cashin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
Think: certified in EMDR, foundationally trained in DBT, and never behind on my CEUs.
I know a thing or two about overwhelm and the chaos it causes in your life. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, I help Huntsville’s young professionals get unstuck, improve their relationships & emotions, and live with joy. I provide evidence-based psychotherapy including traditional Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I keep my caseload small and offer comprehensive care and support to clients, including phone coaching between sessions as needed.
Think: certified in EMDR, foundationally trained in DBT, and never behind on my CEUs.
I know a thing or two about overwhelm and the chaos it causes in your life. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker, I help Huntsville’s young professionals get unstuck, improve their relationships & emotions, and live with joy. I provide evidence-based psychotherapy including traditional Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. I keep my caseload small and offer comprehensive care and support to clients, including phone coaching between sessions as needed.
(256) 787-5675 View (256) 787-5675
Photo of Candace Jules, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candace Jules
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35756
A few treatment modalities I offer include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to name a few.
I have committed myself to being a knowledgeable and competent professional equipped to help a wide spectrum of clients from all walks of life who may have an equally wide range of needs. I believe you are the expert of your story, and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you, cause you distress, or make you feel “stuck”. I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities to fit your needs so my approach is very client-centered; what may work for one individual may not work for the next even if there are similar diagnosis or challenges. I welcome the opportunity to work with you!
A few treatment modalities I offer include: Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Attachment-Based Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to name a few.
I have committed myself to being a knowledgeable and competent professional equipped to help a wide spectrum of clients from all walks of life who may have an equally wide range of needs. I believe you are the expert of your story, and you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming the things that challenge you, cause you distress, or make you feel “stuck”. I am trained in a variety of treatment modalities to fit your needs so my approach is very client-centered; what may work for one individual may not work for the next even if there are similar diagnosis or challenges. I welcome the opportunity to work with you!
(256) 371-5550 View (256) 371-5550
Photo of Audra White Rankin - A. Rankin and Associates, LLC, MEd, LPC, NBCC, Counselor
A. Rankin and Associates, LLC
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35757
I am trained in EMDR, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) IFS (Internal Family Systems) and CA.
My ideal client would be ready to incorporate new ideas to help themselves have a happier and more fulfilling life, better relationships, and incorporate their dreams and visions into their goals and lives.
I am trained in EMDR, (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) IFS (Internal Family Systems) and CA.
My ideal client would be ready to incorporate new ideas to help themselves have a happier and more fulfilling life, better relationships, and incorporate their dreams and visions into their goals and lives.
(256) 548-4694 View (256) 548-4694
Photo of Charlene McLaughlin, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Charlene McLaughlin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35757  (Online Only)
Hey there, I'm Charlene McLaughlin. I've been honored to support folks like you for more than 20 years as they navigate their path to healing and personal development. With dual Masters in Social Work and Rehabilitation Counseling, along with a wealth of certifications including EMDR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I bring a rich tapestry of expertise to our therapeutic journey together.
Hey there, I'm Charlene McLaughlin. I've been honored to support folks like you for more than 20 years as they navigate their path to healing and personal development. With dual Masters in Social Work and Rehabilitation Counseling, along with a wealth of certifications including EMDR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, I bring a rich tapestry of expertise to our therapeutic journey together.
(256) 578-7725 View (256) 578-7725
Photo of Jan Owen, MA, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Jan Owen
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
Waitlist for new clients
I currently offer EMDR intensives that last 2-5 days to address traumatic experiences.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the losses, trauma, and challenges you have experienced? Has your life changed beyond recognition? Do you feel alone, anxious, and heartbroken? If your life has changed in difficult ways, you may feel isolated in your sadness, unable to find someone who understands and is able to help. If you are wondering how long these feelings will last and need some encouragement and support, counseling may be helpful for you.
I currently offer EMDR intensives that last 2-5 days to address traumatic experiences.
Do you feel overwhelmed by the losses, trauma, and challenges you have experienced? Has your life changed beyond recognition? Do you feel alone, anxious, and heartbroken? If your life has changed in difficult ways, you may feel isolated in your sadness, unable to find someone who understands and is able to help. If you are wondering how long these feelings will last and need some encouragement and support, counseling may be helpful for you.
(931) 236-2395 View (931) 236-2395
Photo of Jacquelyn Wellmeier, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacquelyn Wellmeier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
My therapeutic toolkit includes EMDR, person-centered therapy, & more.
Life can sometimes feel like navigating a maze with unexpected twists & turns. As a therapist, I aim to walk beside you through this maze, helping you find clarity, peace, & direction. I strive to create a space where you feel seen, heard, & valued, providing the trust, compassion, & validation you need. In our therapeutic partnership, we will delve into your unique story, understanding the emotional, mental, and physical aspects and the family, social, cultural, & spiritual dimensions of your experience. With a blend of evidence-based techniques, I will help you tap into your strengths & develop new resources to achieve change.
My therapeutic toolkit includes EMDR, person-centered therapy, & more.
Life can sometimes feel like navigating a maze with unexpected twists & turns. As a therapist, I aim to walk beside you through this maze, helping you find clarity, peace, & direction. I strive to create a space where you feel seen, heard, & valued, providing the trust, compassion, & validation you need. In our therapeutic partnership, we will delve into your unique story, understanding the emotional, mental, and physical aspects and the family, social, cultural, & spiritual dimensions of your experience. With a blend of evidence-based techniques, I will help you tap into your strengths & develop new resources to achieve change.
(334) 641-8057 View (334) 641-8057
Photo of Haley McInnis, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley McInnis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Madison, AL 35758  (Online Only)
I decided to start a career in mental health because a therapist saved my life when I was a teenager. I have dedicated my life to helping others in the same way, and I truly believe it is my calling. I have been a therapist/counselor for 6 years, and I have been working in the mental health field for 9 years. I will do everything within my ability to help improve your overall mood and quality of life in general. I am now an EMDR-trained clinician. EMDR can be used to treat a variety of mental health concerns. I also offer traditional talk therapy.
I decided to start a career in mental health because a therapist saved my life when I was a teenager. I have dedicated my life to helping others in the same way, and I truly believe it is my calling. I have been a therapist/counselor for 6 years, and I have been working in the mental health field for 9 years. I will do everything within my ability to help improve your overall mood and quality of life in general. I am now an EMDR-trained clinician. EMDR can be used to treat a variety of mental health concerns. I also offer traditional talk therapy.
(256) 637-3542 View (256) 637-3542
Photo of Warnie Mitch Robertson, D, Min, LICSW, PIP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Warnie Mitch Robertson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, D, Min, LICSW, PIP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35756
I have a D.Min in Family Therapy and over thirty years experience working with individuals and families regarding a variety of interest including grief issues and addictions. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus, EMDR, hypnosis, mindfulness for stress reduction, Gottman Couple Therapy techniques, and Christian counseling.
I have a D.Min in Family Therapy and over thirty years experience working with individuals and families regarding a variety of interest including grief issues and addictions. I use cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focus, EMDR, hypnosis, mindfulness for stress reduction, Gottman Couple Therapy techniques, and Christian counseling.
(256) 414-9147 View (256) 414-9147
Photo of Anna L Themas, MS Ed, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Anna L Themas
Counselor, MS Ed, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Madison, AL 35758
What if I told you that there is something that can help you get past your stuck point in life? The thing that is holding you back from your upmost potential. The hurdles you’ve experienced or the symptoms that you are feeling that are making life not as enjoyable as you know that it could be. Counseling can do that. Everyone can benefit at some point in their life from counseling. No matter the size of the obstacle that you have to overcome or the feelings in your way to live a meaningful and fulfilled life full of joy, counseling can help you achieve that daily experience.
What if I told you that there is something that can help you get past your stuck point in life? The thing that is holding you back from your upmost potential. The hurdles you’ve experienced or the symptoms that you are feeling that are making life not as enjoyable as you know that it could be. Counseling can do that. Everyone can benefit at some point in their life from counseling. No matter the size of the obstacle that you have to overcome or the feelings in your way to live a meaningful and fulfilled life full of joy, counseling can help you achieve that daily experience.
(256) 521-7594 View (256) 521-7594
1
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.