EMDR Therapists in Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC

Photo of Christopher A. Cook, PhD, MA, LCMHC, QS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher A. Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
Therapy includes body work, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and story processing.
If you need help healing from painful past experiences or developing healthy relationships, I can help. I work with clients who have been harmed by past experiences, from prolonged childhood neglect or abuse to adult experiences that you are just having difficulty moving past. I also work with couples who are trying to work through conflict or grow closer. I help clients find calm and peace in their current lives, healing from past pain, a renewed sense of meaning, purpose, and identity. I will partner with you to discover where you are on the healing journey and develop a plan for moving you forward in healing and growth.
Therapy includes body work, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and story processing.
If you need help healing from painful past experiences or developing healthy relationships, I can help. I work with clients who have been harmed by past experiences, from prolonged childhood neglect or abuse to adult experiences that you are just having difficulty moving past. I also work with couples who are trying to work through conflict or grow closer. I help clients find calm and peace in their current lives, healing from past pain, a renewed sense of meaning, purpose, and identity. I will partner with you to discover where you are on the healing journey and develop a plan for moving you forward in healing and growth.
(828) 348-0736 View (828) 348-0736
Photo of David Sanchez, LCMHC, CSAT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
David Sanchez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
I hold two licenses in mental health, certification in sex addiction & training in trauma treatment with EMDR and Brain Spotting, for the best treatment for your specific situation.
"No one understands how I feel" "Why is life so hard?" Have you had similar thoughts? Are you tired of not living the life you want due to sex addiction, being assertive, or relationship issues/conflict? Then we should talk. Are you tired of doing this alone? You don't have to; we can work together to reach your goals. If you are ready for positive change, I want to hear about your situation and work with you. Don't wait another day, now is the time for relief. Contact me today as your first step towards the life you really want.
I hold two licenses in mental health, certification in sex addiction & training in trauma treatment with EMDR and Brain Spotting, for the best treatment for your specific situation.
"No one understands how I feel" "Why is life so hard?" Have you had similar thoughts? Are you tired of not living the life you want due to sex addiction, being assertive, or relationship issues/conflict? Then we should talk. Are you tired of doing this alone? You don't have to; we can work together to reach your goals. If you are ready for positive change, I want to hear about your situation and work with you. Don't wait another day, now is the time for relief. Contact me today as your first step towards the life you really want.
(704) 469-5470 View (704) 469-5470
Photo of Rhonda Chesson, MEd, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rhonda Chesson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
By using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), I can help you develop more positive beliefs about yourself so that you can move toward healing, and leave the past behind.
Life can come at you fast in the most annoying ways such as experiencing difficulty in your relationships, work and family. Feelings of anger, anxiety, worry, depression can contribute to low self worth. I can help you to understand why you think, feel and behave the way you do in order to help you improve your self-esteem, your mood, your relationships and your life.
By using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), I can help you develop more positive beliefs about yourself so that you can move toward healing, and leave the past behind.
Life can come at you fast in the most annoying ways such as experiencing difficulty in your relationships, work and family. Feelings of anger, anxiety, worry, depression can contribute to low self worth. I can help you to understand why you think, feel and behave the way you do in order to help you improve your self-esteem, your mood, your relationships and your life.
(919) 439-5958 View (919) 439-5958
Photo of Debra Neisler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Neisler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also use EMDR and other methods to reduce and resolve symptoms and improve your quality of life.
I’ve been a psychotherapist for almost twenty years and have worked with individuals, families, and children.  I find my work with adult females to be the most rewarding because I can relate to the issues that women experience. I have traveled my path through childhood trauma to become the expression of my true self, and I continue to learn more every day. With my personal experience and knowledge of psychological theories and therapies, I can help you with your self-discovery and challenges.  This is a lifelong journey, not a race.
I also use EMDR and other methods to reduce and resolve symptoms and improve your quality of life.
I’ve been a psychotherapist for almost twenty years and have worked with individuals, families, and children.  I find my work with adult females to be the most rewarding because I can relate to the issues that women experience. I have traveled my path through childhood trauma to become the expression of my true self, and I continue to learn more every day. With my personal experience and knowledge of psychological theories and therapies, I can help you with your self-discovery and challenges.  This is a lifelong journey, not a race.
(704) 413-0319 View (704) 413-0319
Photo of Megan Montgomery Clark, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Megan Montgomery Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
Waitlist for new clients
I have post-grad training in parenting support (Emotionally Focused Therapy), adoptive/foster families and adoptees (Trust-Based Relational Intervention), and trauma (CCTP-II, Hypnosis, Ego State Therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting).
I believe the therapeutic relationship is the primary ingredient to successful therapy. I work hard to create a warm, trusting relationship with each client and go at their pace. I enjoy working with individuals (21+). Particular areas of interest for me include trauma healing, creating healthy attachment relationships, emotionally healthy spirituality (including deconstruction/reconstruction), body image, parenting support, and women's issues. I welcome and value people from all religious backgrounds, sexual orientations and ethnicities. I see clients from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, both in-person and virtually.
I have post-grad training in parenting support (Emotionally Focused Therapy), adoptive/foster families and adoptees (Trust-Based Relational Intervention), and trauma (CCTP-II, Hypnosis, Ego State Therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting).
I believe the therapeutic relationship is the primary ingredient to successful therapy. I work hard to create a warm, trusting relationship with each client and go at their pace. I enjoy working with individuals (21+). Particular areas of interest for me include trauma healing, creating healthy attachment relationships, emotionally healthy spirituality (including deconstruction/reconstruction), body image, parenting support, and women's issues. I welcome and value people from all religious backgrounds, sexual orientations and ethnicities. I see clients from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, both in-person and virtually.
(704) 387-5211 View (704) 387-5211
Photo of Jamarr J Funderburg, CSOTS, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamarr J Funderburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSOTS, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
I am specifically trained to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Behavior Modification (BMod) with children and adults with mental health and or substance use disorders.
I provide treatment for diverse individuals who have diverse life experiences. I have the education and training to address a wide range of treatment issues however I specialize in treating addictions, trauma(s), and challenging relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My primary client's are adults over the age of 18.
I am specifically trained to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Behavior Modification (BMod) with children and adults with mental health and or substance use disorders.
I provide treatment for diverse individuals who have diverse life experiences. I have the education and training to address a wide range of treatment issues however I specialize in treating addictions, trauma(s), and challenging relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My primary client's are adults over the age of 18.
(704) 594-5092 View (704) 594-5092
Photo of Marissa Johnson, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Marissa Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
As an EMDR and DBT therapist, I help clients work through past trauma and learn to regulate their emotions in the present.
Are you struggling to regulate your emotions and meet your goals? Do you feel stuck in life? Is your past interfering with your life in the present? I am trained in EMDR and DBT, and help clients who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I want to help you work through difficulties to live your best life. Life right now is particularly stressful, and and I want to give you a place to process your emotions and learn skills to handle stress.
As an EMDR and DBT therapist, I help clients work through past trauma and learn to regulate their emotions in the present.
Are you struggling to regulate your emotions and meet your goals? Do you feel stuck in life? Is your past interfering with your life in the present? I am trained in EMDR and DBT, and help clients who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I want to help you work through difficulties to live your best life. Life right now is particularly stressful, and and I want to give you a place to process your emotions and learn skills to handle stress.
(704) 610-3970 View (704) 610-3970
Photo of Stefanie Smith, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Stefanie Smith
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
I also utilize EMDR in sessions.
Many people can be too hard and not kind enough to themselves. Life is difficult enough, and not being on their own side through their struggles makes it even more so. Whether you’re new to therapy or have some experience with it, starting with a new therapist can be overwhelming. I invite you to a warm, inviting space where you are able to show your full self. I tend to use a holistic and integrative approach. Your sessions are your time and I will meet you where you’re at while providing a therapist viewpoint.
I also utilize EMDR in sessions.
Many people can be too hard and not kind enough to themselves. Life is difficult enough, and not being on their own side through their struggles makes it even more so. Whether you’re new to therapy or have some experience with it, starting with a new therapist can be overwhelming. I invite you to a warm, inviting space where you are able to show your full self. I tend to use a holistic and integrative approach. Your sessions are your time and I will meet you where you’re at while providing a therapist viewpoint.
(704) 900-3254 View (704) 900-3254
Photo of Daniel A Keith, MS, LCMHC
Daniel A Keith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
In sessions, it may be worthwhile to utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) or Brainspotting techniques to reduce undesired symptoms.
I believe in change; that when a person is dissatisfied, they can make little shifts that can create big impacts. I believe in the power of the individual. My typical clientele are adults struggling with anxiety, trauma symptoms, or depression.
In sessions, it may be worthwhile to utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) or Brainspotting techniques to reduce undesired symptoms.
I believe in change; that when a person is dissatisfied, they can make little shifts that can create big impacts. I believe in the power of the individual. My typical clientele are adults struggling with anxiety, trauma symptoms, or depression.
(828) 554-2714 View (828) 554-2714
Photo of King Jones, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
King Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
I have specific training in reproductive mental health, parenthood, couple's counseling, and trauma therapy (including EMDR).
Life can be overwhelming sometimes. Relational concerns, unexpected challenges, new or old traumas, and life transitions can all lead to mental health needs. Often we default to pushing through or feeling like we should be able to tackle these things alone, but nothing could be further from the truth. With support from a knowledgable and caring professional who uses evidence-based approaches, you can start the work of feeling like yourself again, or perhaps feeling better than you've ever felt before.
I have specific training in reproductive mental health, parenthood, couple's counseling, and trauma therapy (including EMDR).
Life can be overwhelming sometimes. Relational concerns, unexpected challenges, new or old traumas, and life transitions can all lead to mental health needs. Often we default to pushing through or feeling like we should be able to tackle these things alone, but nothing could be further from the truth. With support from a knowledgable and caring professional who uses evidence-based approaches, you can start the work of feeling like yourself again, or perhaps feeling better than you've ever felt before.
(980) 300-6663 View (980) 300-6663
Photo of Michelle Robinson, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
Now Providing KAP! Symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, muscle pain/fatigue, depressed mood, irritability, and panic attacks are exhausting and interfere with your Total Wellness, including relationships and job performance. I have 20 years of experience in the successful treatment of symptoms associated w/ PTSD, anxiety, and depression through the use of EMDR, Brainspotting. and KAP. These techniques allow your brain to access its innate, natural healing process to relieve distress and reduce/eliminate physiological arousal to triggers, resulting in controlled emotions, improved sleep, and overall improved focus and concentration.
Now Providing KAP! Symptoms such as headaches, insomnia, muscle pain/fatigue, depressed mood, irritability, and panic attacks are exhausting and interfere with your Total Wellness, including relationships and job performance. I have 20 years of experience in the successful treatment of symptoms associated w/ PTSD, anxiety, and depression through the use of EMDR, Brainspotting. and KAP. These techniques allow your brain to access its innate, natural healing process to relieve distress and reduce/eliminate physiological arousal to triggers, resulting in controlled emotions, improved sleep, and overall improved focus and concentration.
(706) 230-6790 View (706) 230-6790
Photo of Tamara Hicks, MS, LCMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamara Hicks
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
I am trained or certified in all of the following modalities: Person-Centered Therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) SFBT (Solution Focus Based Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Trauma Informed and EMDR.
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
I am trained or certified in all of the following modalities: Person-Centered Therapy, CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) SFBT (Solution Focus Based Therapy), DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), Trauma Informed and EMDR.
I have learned that I am not for everyone and everyone is not for me. I am a whole vibe professionally speaking. Therapy is a journey one in which the client is in the drivers seat and the therapist is in the passenger seat, shotgun! The client that wants to get to the root of the pain, hurt, awkwardness, craziness, sadness, the list goes on is a great match with Ms. Tam. The client that also pulls from hope, spirit, experience, the unknown is a match with me. Its helpful for the client to remain open throughout at least 3-6 sessions after the assessment in order to fully rate symptom change.
(704) 313-1034 View (704) 313-1034
Photo of Mike Long, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Mike Long
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
Is your drinking or drug use out of control? Has your depression or anxiety reached a point where you can't function? Then you may be a candidate for residential treatment and Promises Behavioral Health is here to help you. We have a dozen facilities across the country, offering the best in residential treatment for many conditions. Patients come to one of our welcoming locations and usually stay for an average of 3-4 weeks. While there, patients receive individual and group counseling, as well as participating in therapeutic recreational activities. We also have psychiatric staff at each facility to monitor medications.
Is your drinking or drug use out of control? Has your depression or anxiety reached a point where you can't function? Then you may be a candidate for residential treatment and Promises Behavioral Health is here to help you. We have a dozen facilities across the country, offering the best in residential treatment for many conditions. Patients come to one of our welcoming locations and usually stay for an average of 3-4 weeks. While there, patients receive individual and group counseling, as well as participating in therapeutic recreational activities. We also have psychiatric staff at each facility to monitor medications.
(803) 594-4854 View (803) 594-4854
Photo of Mike Vaughn, MA, LCMHCS, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mike Vaughn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, CSAT
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is focused on treating sexual brokenness and addiction, trauma (relational, single event, PTSD) and marital issues, including infidelity. Many times, these three treatment areas are linked together and experience in all three leads to more comprehensive therapy. I have also worked with clients with many different presenting issues over 21 years of private practice. I believe this experience helps me address the varied needs that my clients present.
My practice is focused on treating sexual brokenness and addiction, trauma (relational, single event, PTSD) and marital issues, including infidelity. Many times, these three treatment areas are linked together and experience in all three leads to more comprehensive therapy. I have also worked with clients with many different presenting issues over 21 years of private practice. I believe this experience helps me address the varied needs that my clients present.
(704) 498-4152 View (704) 498-4152
Photo of Leslie Petruk, MA, LPC-S, NCC, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Petruk
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC, BCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Are you frustrated in your current life situation? Going through a life transition? Struggling as a parent? Having Relationship or Marital difficulties? Grieving a loss? Feeling Depressed or anxious? Seeking direction and feeling overwhelmed? Looking for a change but unsure where to begin? Counseling can help with these issues and help you get back on track while also gaining new self-awareness and healing. I work in a collaborative manner to assist you in achieving the goals and healing you are seeking. I am also a Board Certified Coach and provide Success Coaching services, and seminars on parenting, marriage & relationships and related topics.
Are you frustrated in your current life situation? Going through a life transition? Struggling as a parent? Having Relationship or Marital difficulties? Grieving a loss? Feeling Depressed or anxious? Seeking direction and feeling overwhelmed? Looking for a change but unsure where to begin? Counseling can help with these issues and help you get back on track while also gaining new self-awareness and healing. I work in a collaborative manner to assist you in achieving the goals and healing you are seeking. I am also a Board Certified Coach and provide Success Coaching services, and seminars on parenting, marriage & relationships and related topics.
(704) 635-6179 View (704) 635-6179
Photo of Adam T Fadel, MS, NC LMFT, SC LMFT, EMDR, AAMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adam T Fadel
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, NC LMFT, SC LMFT, EMDR, AAMFT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
Adam is devoted to walking alongside clients with compassion, confidence, and purpose. His goal is to help others experience the fullness of being emotionally and relationally strong. He believes therapy provides the best opportunity to develop personal insight and confidence as well as to develop honest and joyful relationships with others.
Adam is devoted to walking alongside clients with compassion, confidence, and purpose. His goal is to help others experience the fullness of being emotionally and relationally strong. He believes therapy provides the best opportunity to develop personal insight and confidence as well as to develop honest and joyful relationships with others.
(704) 817-2746 View (704) 817-2746
Photo of Michelle Holleman, MS, LCAS, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Michelle Holleman
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCAS, CSAT, CPTT, CMAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
It is my honor to be a part of your healing journey and recovery. Nothing is really a problem, until it becomes a problem. My mission is to guide people to heal and find their authentic selves via an exceptional therapeutic process and experience. As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, I specialize in supporting teens, adults, and their loved ones recover from sex/love, pornography, internet/gaming, mental health issues, and drug and alcohol addiction/dependency. There is no judgement and I welcome all. This is a safe place to heal.
It is my honor to be a part of your healing journey and recovery. Nothing is really a problem, until it becomes a problem. My mission is to guide people to heal and find their authentic selves via an exceptional therapeutic process and experience. As a Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist and Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, I specialize in supporting teens, adults, and their loved ones recover from sex/love, pornography, internet/gaming, mental health issues, and drug and alcohol addiction/dependency. There is no judgement and I welcome all. This is a safe place to heal.
(704) 469-5425 View (704) 469-5425
Photo of Christina Bronte, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina Bronte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
Any number of things can happen to throw us off track. Maybe you feel stuck because difficult things have happened in your life, you have experienced a loss or are going through a significant transition. Perhaps fears or anxieties overwhelm you. Or you are struggling in your relationships with those who matter most to you. Living like this is hard. With 20+ years experience, I am highly trained in many treatment modalities to help you cultivate what is best within yourself to enhance your experiences with love, friendships, work and play, no matter the age.
Any number of things can happen to throw us off track. Maybe you feel stuck because difficult things have happened in your life, you have experienced a loss or are going through a significant transition. Perhaps fears or anxieties overwhelm you. Or you are struggling in your relationships with those who matter most to you. Living like this is hard. With 20+ years experience, I am highly trained in many treatment modalities to help you cultivate what is best within yourself to enhance your experiences with love, friendships, work and play, no matter the age.
(704) 946-6546 View (704) 946-6546
Photo of Elizabeth Caroline Ratajczak, LCSWA, LCASA, LMSW, CMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Caroline Ratajczak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, LCASA, LMSW, CMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
Individuals who are bravely seeking assistance with substance abuse, mental health disorders, adverse childhood experiences, and trauma.
Individuals who are bravely seeking assistance with substance abuse, mental health disorders, adverse childhood experiences, and trauma.
(980) 351-4573 View (980) 351-4573
Photo of Brooke Hutto, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Brooke Hutto
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wessex Square, Charlotte, NC 28277
Is life unmanageable? Are you sad, hopeless, fearful? Are you struggling in your relationships? Does life feel meaningless and purposeless? In life, we all face seasons of suffering, and I would love the opportunity to come alongside you in that season. We are not meant to do life alone and sometimes we need some extra support to help us gain skills for coping or relating to ourselves and others. In my practice, my goal is to help you gain mental health that will impact all the other areas of your life for good.
Is life unmanageable? Are you sad, hopeless, fearful? Are you struggling in your relationships? Does life feel meaningless and purposeless? In life, we all face seasons of suffering, and I would love the opportunity to come alongside you in that season. We are not meant to do life alone and sometimes we need some extra support to help us gain skills for coping or relating to ourselves and others. In my practice, my goal is to help you gain mental health that will impact all the other areas of your life for good.
(704) 422-4574 View (704) 422-4574
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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.