EMDR Therapists in Spanish Fort, AL

Photo of Liz Reinking - A Better You, ALC, MBA, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
A Better You
Licensed Professional Counselor, ALC, MBA, MA
Verified Verified
Spanish Fort, AL 36527
If you suffer from anxiety, trauma, abuse or workplace problems I am trained to help you cope, and not just survive, but thrive. In 2001 I began helping clients cope with nightmares, low self esteem, women's issues and trauma using EMDR. This is a natural healing method that is quicker and more effective than talk therapy alone. To get started on a healthier, happier life, call me. Together, we can cope and make your life better!
If you suffer from anxiety, trauma, abuse or workplace problems I am trained to help you cope, and not just survive, but thrive. In 2001 I began helping clients cope with nightmares, low self esteem, women's issues and trauma using EMDR. This is a natural healing method that is quicker and more effective than talk therapy alone. To get started on a healthier, happier life, call me. Together, we can cope and make your life better!
(616) 899-4081 View (616) 899-4081
Photo of Joanna Snow, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joanna Snow
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Spanish Fort, AL 36527
While also trained in EMDR, I specialize in trauma processing and emotional healing.
Finding the right counselor is important for your needs. I offer a positive, solution-focused approach, deeply caring about my clients' success. With extensive training in relationship dynamics, trauma, and mood regulation, I help clients thrive in their personal life through realistic steps. My first goal is creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals feel understood, validated, and empowered to explore their emotions and experiences.
While also trained in EMDR, I specialize in trauma processing and emotional healing.
Finding the right counselor is important for your needs. I offer a positive, solution-focused approach, deeply caring about my clients' success. With extensive training in relationship dynamics, trauma, and mood regulation, I help clients thrive in their personal life through realistic steps. My first goal is creating a safe and nurturing environment where individuals feel understood, validated, and empowered to explore their emotions and experiences.
(251) 220-5724 View (251) 220-5724
Photo of Stephanie Philpot - Stephanie Philpot Professional Counseling, LLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Philpot Professional Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Spanish Fort, AL 36527
We are more capable of change than we believe. Before change is attainable, we must believe change is possible. Stephanie is Level II trained in EMDR, a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from symptoms & emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. In a relaxed environment using natural conversation, Stephanie helps clients become aware of self-defeating thoughts & behaviors that contribute to feeling overwhelmed & low self-esteem. By recognizing & changing these patterns, growth & healthy emotional responses develop, while self-doubt & confusion are transformed to self-confidence, clarity, & peace.
We are more capable of change than we believe. Before change is attainable, we must believe change is possible. Stephanie is Level II trained in EMDR, a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from symptoms & emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences. In a relaxed environment using natural conversation, Stephanie helps clients become aware of self-defeating thoughts & behaviors that contribute to feeling overwhelmed & low self-esteem. By recognizing & changing these patterns, growth & healthy emotional responses develop, while self-doubt & confusion are transformed to self-confidence, clarity, & peace.
(251) 254-2784 View (251) 254-2784
K. Shea Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Spanish Fort, AL 36527
I am also trained in EMDR.
​Though my areas of specialization have been in trauma recovery and play therapy with children, teens, and adults, I also have had successful experience working with the following, in no particular order: Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sensory Processing Disorders, ADD/ ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Grief/ Loss, Life Transitions, Behavior Management, Parenting Concerns, Hoarding, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Sessions are conducted individually, in family sessions, and also as couples.
I am also trained in EMDR.
​Though my areas of specialization have been in trauma recovery and play therapy with children, teens, and adults, I also have had successful experience working with the following, in no particular order: Depression, Anxiety, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Sensory Processing Disorders, ADD/ ADHD, Bipolar Disorder, Grief/ Loss, Life Transitions, Behavior Management, Parenting Concerns, Hoarding, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Sessions are conducted individually, in family sessions, and also as couples.
(251) 270-2296 View (251) 270-2296
Photo of Laura W Anderson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura W Anderson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Spanish Fort, AL 36527
Waitlist for new clients
Many people have experienced trauma and deep woundedness, but we don’t have to keep living out those stories in our present lives. These messages and stories that we’ve learned about ourselves may be the major voice in our head, but they don’t have to stay that way. My passion is helping clients connect with the true version of who they are now and learn coping skills and strategies to reconnect with all parts of themselves. This reconnection allows them to function their best in all their relationships: personal, professional, and most importantly their relationship with themselves.
Many people have experienced trauma and deep woundedness, but we don’t have to keep living out those stories in our present lives. These messages and stories that we’ve learned about ourselves may be the major voice in our head, but they don’t have to stay that way. My passion is helping clients connect with the true version of who they are now and learn coping skills and strategies to reconnect with all parts of themselves. This reconnection allows them to function their best in all their relationships: personal, professional, and most importantly their relationship with themselves.
(251) 325-0081 View (251) 325-0081

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Zach F Thompson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zach F Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36603
I have completed Basic Training level 1 and 2 for EMDR which is a trauma focused therapy which helps with processing traumatic events.
I am an Allender Trained therapist working with clients who have significant stories of harm. My focus is in issues of trauma, addiction, grief, shame and relational issues for both men, women and couples. My training is in a narrative approach, helping people uncover their story, leading to pathways of healing. It is in relationships that we get wounded and it is in relationships that we find healing. We are storied people. Our stories include places of harm and trauma. I believe the work in healing and growth is uncovering our stories and bringing care to the places of harm.
I have completed Basic Training level 1 and 2 for EMDR which is a trauma focused therapy which helps with processing traumatic events.
I am an Allender Trained therapist working with clients who have significant stories of harm. My focus is in issues of trauma, addiction, grief, shame and relational issues for both men, women and couples. My training is in a narrative approach, helping people uncover their story, leading to pathways of healing. It is in relationships that we get wounded and it is in relationships that we find healing. We are storied people. Our stories include places of harm and trauma. I believe the work in healing and growth is uncovering our stories and bringing care to the places of harm.
(251) 292-9028 View (251) 292-9028
Photo of LaJuan Humbert, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaJuan Humbert
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Daphne, AL 36526
I have training in EMDR, Gottman Method, Mindfulness & DBT.
We each have a unique story. Often, those stories can include very difficult & painful events or seasons that can negatively impact our view of ourselves, how we relate with others, & our ability to live & cope with life in the ways that we desire. This can lead to feeling confused, overwhelmed, exhausted, stuck, or even hopeless. Trauma, loss, difficult relationships, & other life disappointments can all wreak havoc on our bodies, minds, emotions & relationships. Things CAN be different. Relief, growth & healing are possible. It takes tremendous courage to reach out for help. We are not meant to walk our journeys alone.
I have training in EMDR, Gottman Method, Mindfulness & DBT.
We each have a unique story. Often, those stories can include very difficult & painful events or seasons that can negatively impact our view of ourselves, how we relate with others, & our ability to live & cope with life in the ways that we desire. This can lead to feeling confused, overwhelmed, exhausted, stuck, or even hopeless. Trauma, loss, difficult relationships, & other life disappointments can all wreak havoc on our bodies, minds, emotions & relationships. Things CAN be different. Relief, growth & healing are possible. It takes tremendous courage to reach out for help. We are not meant to walk our journeys alone.
(251) 298-8028 View (251) 298-8028
Photo of Christina Steele, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Steele
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36602
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR and utilize various other techniques in working with clients.
Life is hard. It can be beautiful and wonderful, and sometimes very hard. It is my passion to walk alongside people as they learn to navigate life’s challenges. If that looks like processing trauma, life changes, anxiety, relationship issues, or a combination of challenges, my goals are your goals. In my office I advocate for restored hope, even through dark deep emotions. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space to work through difficult emotional experiences. You are not alone in life’s journey, and it is my hope to help you discover your strengths so you can experience freedom from painful experiences.
I am trained in EMDR and utilize various other techniques in working with clients.
Life is hard. It can be beautiful and wonderful, and sometimes very hard. It is my passion to walk alongside people as they learn to navigate life’s challenges. If that looks like processing trauma, life changes, anxiety, relationship issues, or a combination of challenges, my goals are your goals. In my office I advocate for restored hope, even through dark deep emotions. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space to work through difficult emotional experiences. You are not alone in life’s journey, and it is my hope to help you discover your strengths so you can experience freedom from painful experiences.
(251) 235-5180 View (251) 235-5180
Photo of Rochelle W. Murrell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rochelle W. Murrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daphne, AL 36526
Waitlist for new clients
I embrace a holistic approach and may include a variety of modalities including CBT, Solution-focused, EMDR, Theraplay, ERP or other methods.
Promoting positive, personal development. When we encounter unexpected turns in life, it is not uncommon to feel frustrated or lost in searching for answers. These circumstances bring new emotions that cause strain on one's personal and relational well-being. It is my desire to bring healing to those wading through these difficult times. Together, we find healthy avenues that lead to hope, restoration, and fulfillment.
I embrace a holistic approach and may include a variety of modalities including CBT, Solution-focused, EMDR, Theraplay, ERP or other methods.
Promoting positive, personal development. When we encounter unexpected turns in life, it is not uncommon to feel frustrated or lost in searching for answers. These circumstances bring new emotions that cause strain on one's personal and relational well-being. It is my desire to bring healing to those wading through these difficult times. Together, we find healthy avenues that lead to hope, restoration, and fulfillment.
(251) 273-5851 View (251) 273-5851
Photo of Morgan H Spivey, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan H Spivey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36602
My therapeutic approach is primarily a narrative framework, however I use many tools including EMDR, Play Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy to care for clients.
These past few years have brought a global traumatic event to the doorsteps of our lives and hearts. Whether this feels new to you or deeply familiar, your story and experience is worth attunement and care. I am passionate about seeing redemption come in the lives of children and adults who have experienced trauma and loss. Events in our lives fragment our hearts, minds, and bodies, and we are in need of repair- both with ourselves and each other. I see children, adults, and couples, and I have extensive training in trauma and abuse. I see clients for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
My therapeutic approach is primarily a narrative framework, however I use many tools including EMDR, Play Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy to care for clients.
These past few years have brought a global traumatic event to the doorsteps of our lives and hearts. Whether this feels new to you or deeply familiar, your story and experience is worth attunement and care. I am passionate about seeing redemption come in the lives of children and adults who have experienced trauma and loss. Events in our lives fragment our hearts, minds, and bodies, and we are in need of repair- both with ourselves and each other. I see children, adults, and couples, and I have extensive training in trauma and abuse. I see clients for a variety of issues including anxiety, depression, grief, and loss.
(251) 244-3360 View (251) 244-3360
Photo of Cheryl Lynn Holmes - Cheryl Lynn Holmes, MS, LPCS, CCH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Lynn Holmes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPCS, CCH
Verified Verified
Daphne, AL 36526
BIG news! I take Medicare now! I I use a variety of proven modalities: Systemic Sex Therapy, Therapy for Trauma: CBT, EMDR, DBT, EFT (for PTSD, Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome and Religious Trauma) and The Neurobiology of Attachment Styles and Effective Treatment. I specialize in Marriage and /or Couple's therapy. Open Tuesday-Saturday! Expect Miracles! Learn how to manifest your Life's Purpose and remove all the obstacles-most common: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Weight, and Communication. See you Soon!
BIG news! I take Medicare now! I I use a variety of proven modalities: Systemic Sex Therapy, Therapy for Trauma: CBT, EMDR, DBT, EFT (for PTSD, Narcissistic Abuse Syndrome and Religious Trauma) and The Neurobiology of Attachment Styles and Effective Treatment. I specialize in Marriage and /or Couple's therapy. Open Tuesday-Saturday! Expect Miracles! Learn how to manifest your Life's Purpose and remove all the obstacles-most common: Anxiety, Depression, Low Self-Esteem, Weight, and Communication. See you Soon!
(251) 333-0826 View (251) 333-0826
Photo of Samantha Farmer, MA, LPC, Counselor
Samantha Farmer
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Daphne, AL 36526
My goal as a counselor is to help you find total health in your life using a holistic approach. Emotional, mental, and spiritual health are all equally important components of your total health. I work hard to provide a safe space where you feel comfortable processing your emotions and where you will find motivation to grow. My specialties include substance abuse disorders, codependency issues, developing healthy boundaries, and trauma-related issues. I utilize a variety of therapies including EMDR, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness-based solutions.
My goal as a counselor is to help you find total health in your life using a holistic approach. Emotional, mental, and spiritual health are all equally important components of your total health. I work hard to provide a safe space where you feel comfortable processing your emotions and where you will find motivation to grow. My specialties include substance abuse disorders, codependency issues, developing healthy boundaries, and trauma-related issues. I utilize a variety of therapies including EMDR, cognitive-behavioral, and mindfulness-based solutions.
(251) 235-5271 View (251) 235-5271
Photo of Emily Ryan, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Daphne, AL 36526
This sets the tone for safety and connection and smooths the path for introduction to additional therapeutic modalities, such as EMDR or IFS, if appropriate.
Hi, I'm Emily. I'm so glad you found your way here. It is my hope that you find this space to be a calm, comfortable, compassionate environment. A space where you feel free to be you. My approach to therapy is one that meets you where you are, where we collaborate from a place of curiosity, explore your individual needs, and work together to formulate a plan that best fits you.
This sets the tone for safety and connection and smooths the path for introduction to additional therapeutic modalities, such as EMDR or IFS, if appropriate.
Hi, I'm Emily. I'm so glad you found your way here. It is my hope that you find this space to be a calm, comfortable, compassionate environment. A space where you feel free to be you. My approach to therapy is one that meets you where you are, where we collaborate from a place of curiosity, explore your individual needs, and work together to formulate a plan that best fits you.
(251) 325-6849 View (251) 325-6849
Photo of Mary Louise Jeppsen - Jeppsen Counseling, PhD, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeppsen Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36602
If you are seeking a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationships, and need someone to come alongside you to overcome obstacles that are a result of trauma, low self-esteem, emotional disconnection or hurt, we are willing to help. Both Michael and Mary work with couples, individuals and families. Both are certified Daring Way facilitators , EMDR and Emotion Focused Therapy trained. We have been married 47 years and have raised 11 children. Our personal failures and struggles have informed our practice.
If you are seeking a deeper understanding of yourself and your relationships, and need someone to come alongside you to overcome obstacles that are a result of trauma, low self-esteem, emotional disconnection or hurt, we are willing to help. Both Michael and Mary work with couples, individuals and families. Both are certified Daring Way facilitators , EMDR and Emotion Focused Therapy trained. We have been married 47 years and have raised 11 children. Our personal failures and struggles have informed our practice.
(251) 336-6403 View (251) 336-6403
Photo of Kim Baxter, ALC, MS, NCC, Counselor
Kim Baxter
Counselor, ALC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36604
I have also completed certification level training in EMDR and see significant results using it in my therapy practice.
My goal is to meet you wherever you are as you begin your counseling journey. Perhaps you feel out of control, exhausted by life, anxious, or depressed. Maybe your marriage or relationship has reached a breaking point or you are in the middle of a life transition. I believe that the symptoms you are dealing with make sense in your unique story, and show the incredible resilience that we have to deal with life as we have known it. Sometimes these coping mechanisms no longer serve us. It is okay to realize things are not working! I have been there myself and would love to help you begin to find healing, hope, and a new path forward.
I have also completed certification level training in EMDR and see significant results using it in my therapy practice.
My goal is to meet you wherever you are as you begin your counseling journey. Perhaps you feel out of control, exhausted by life, anxious, or depressed. Maybe your marriage or relationship has reached a breaking point or you are in the middle of a life transition. I believe that the symptoms you are dealing with make sense in your unique story, and show the incredible resilience that we have to deal with life as we have known it. Sometimes these coping mechanisms no longer serve us. It is okay to realize things are not working! I have been there myself and would love to help you begin to find healing, hope, and a new path forward.
(251) 333-9093 View (251) 333-9093
Photo of Alison Grace Hampton, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Grace Hampton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36602
Waitlist for new clients
Whether you need relationship counseling, life coaching, or clinical counseling for OCD, depression, or substance abuse, my aim is to partner with you to bring about the change you desire. I work well with older teens, adults, and couples of all ages. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy as well as The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
Whether you need relationship counseling, life coaching, or clinical counseling for OCD, depression, or substance abuse, my aim is to partner with you to bring about the change you desire. I work well with older teens, adults, and couples of all ages. I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy as well as The Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP).
(251) 714-9930 View (251) 714-9930
Photo of Rokoyia Roper-Lee, LSWAIC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rokoyia Roper-Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSWAIC
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36601
Solution focused therapy, CBT, EMDR ,Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing are interventions that we utilize to to help clients achieve a higher quality of life according to their perceive lens.
Life is full of unpredictable twist and turns and can leave us emotionally paralyzed, overwhelmed or even surface as health issues. The stressors of life and no outlet can exacerbate these feelings and present as anger, depression and hoplessness. Deep down, if you have ever wondered if there is more to life, than what you are currently experiencing, and you are ready to take the next steps towards “your healing journey”, SafeSpace MHCS is for you.
Solution focused therapy, CBT, EMDR ,Mindfulness and Motivational Interviewing are interventions that we utilize to to help clients achieve a higher quality of life according to their perceive lens.
Life is full of unpredictable twist and turns and can leave us emotionally paralyzed, overwhelmed or even surface as health issues. The stressors of life and no outlet can exacerbate these feelings and present as anger, depression and hoplessness. Deep down, if you have ever wondered if there is more to life, than what you are currently experiencing, and you are ready to take the next steps towards “your healing journey”, SafeSpace MHCS is for you.
(509) 553-5433 View (509) 553-5433
Photo of Merle Rebecca Stephens - Merle Rebecca Stephens, MS, LPC, EMDR -C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Merle Rebecca Stephens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR -C
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36601
I use an eclectic approach using evidence based practices and techniques from EMDR, Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy.
I've been serving this community as a fully certified EMDR trauma therapist for over 13 years, and I am here to help you grow, heal, and change. I like to understand your story and life experiences that have led you to the place you are in at this moment, so that we can unroot some belief systems that have held you back from your full potential. A new perspective and understanding can change everything. EMDR is an amazing therapy to help you overcome. Due to my training and experience, there is little that would surprise me. I offer a nonjudgemental atmosphere that will offer you tools and insight to promote change in your life.
I use an eclectic approach using evidence based practices and techniques from EMDR, Behavior Therapy, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Art Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Gestalt Therapy.
I've been serving this community as a fully certified EMDR trauma therapist for over 13 years, and I am here to help you grow, heal, and change. I like to understand your story and life experiences that have led you to the place you are in at this moment, so that we can unroot some belief systems that have held you back from your full potential. A new perspective and understanding can change everything. EMDR is an amazing therapy to help you overcome. Due to my training and experience, there is little that would surprise me. I offer a nonjudgemental atmosphere that will offer you tools and insight to promote change in your life.
(251) 265-4006 View (251) 265-4006
Photo of Joanna Snow - Reduced Fee Counseling- JSM Counseling
Reduced Fee Counseling- JSM Counseling
Verified Verified
Mobile, AL 36602
We know it can be hard to find affordable counseling. Our team provides reduced fee counseling for all ages and different clinical areas. We are located in Downtown Mobile. Our current team is Maria McKenna who is trained in EMDR, works with trauma, teens, adults and couples. Benjamin Snow works with preteens, teens and adults. He also specializes in working with Special needs. Kiara Brown works with children, teens, couples, and adults. We provide online and in-person counseling sessions. You can check out our website, call, or text to receive more information about our staff.
We know it can be hard to find affordable counseling. Our team provides reduced fee counseling for all ages and different clinical areas. We are located in Downtown Mobile. Our current team is Maria McKenna who is trained in EMDR, works with trauma, teens, adults and couples. Benjamin Snow works with preteens, teens and adults. He also specializes in working with Special needs. Kiara Brown works with children, teens, couples, and adults. We provide online and in-person counseling sessions. You can check out our website, call, or text to receive more information about our staff.
(251) 220-4728 View (251) 220-4728
Photo of Tracy Renee Gibson - Renewed Life Counseling LLC, Alc, Pre-Licensed Professional
Renewed Life Counseling LLC
Pre-Licensed Professional, Alc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mobile, AL 36602
Trained in EMDR! In my experience as a mental health professional I have had the pleasure of working with clients from every walk of life whom have suffered from every mental illness under the broad umbrella of mental illnesses.
As a mental health professional I like to take a person centered approach to my clients. As a clinician I feel as though you have to meet people where they are. Not one individual is just like another individual, we are all very unique and so are our needs. I approach each client as if he or she is a blank slate. The only expert to a clients needs is that client. I never approach a client with any all or nothing or black and white thinking. My goal as a clinician is to help each client get to reach his or her fullest potential. The ultimate goal while working with clients is guiding them to reach their greatest potential.
Trained in EMDR! In my experience as a mental health professional I have had the pleasure of working with clients from every walk of life whom have suffered from every mental illness under the broad umbrella of mental illnesses.
As a mental health professional I like to take a person centered approach to my clients. As a clinician I feel as though you have to meet people where they are. Not one individual is just like another individual, we are all very unique and so are our needs. I approach each client as if he or she is a blank slate. The only expert to a clients needs is that client. I never approach a client with any all or nothing or black and white thinking. My goal as a clinician is to help each client get to reach his or her fullest potential. The ultimate goal while working with clients is guiding them to reach their greatest potential.
(251) 512-5212 View (251) 512-5212

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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.