EMDR Therapists in Rockingham County, NC

Photo of Kathy Kirstner - Kathy Kirstner, LCMHC, MSEdS, LCMHC
Kathy Kirstner, LCMHC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MSEdS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Reidsville, NC 27320
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS -- Appointments available Monday - Wednesday 9-5; Thursday 9-12 - Offering EMDR for mood and trauma concerns.
LCHMC - Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor - Struggling with anxiety or depression? Feeling stressed and overwhelmed or feel your mood changing often? I have over 20 years experience helping people resolve their difficulties and make decisions to help them move forward. I have experience with mood disorders, trauma, abuse, Together we'll navigate the obstacles which hold you back from who you want to be. I provide a safe and secure environment for you to find your path to meet your goals. Take that first step to make a positive change in your life. I work with teenagers, adults & families. I am also LGBTQ affirming.
ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS -- Appointments available Monday - Wednesday 9-5; Thursday 9-12 - Offering EMDR for mood and trauma concerns.
LCHMC - Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor - Struggling with anxiety or depression? Feeling stressed and overwhelmed or feel your mood changing often? I have over 20 years experience helping people resolve their difficulties and make decisions to help them move forward. I have experience with mood disorders, trauma, abuse, Together we'll navigate the obstacles which hold you back from who you want to be. I provide a safe and secure environment for you to find your path to meet your goals. Take that first step to make a positive change in your life. I work with teenagers, adults & families. I am also LGBTQ affirming.
(336) 295-6257 View (336) 295-6257
Photo of Paula B Salmon, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Paula B Salmon
MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Reidsville, NC 27320
At the heart of every successful therapy experience, is a genuine connection and trust between client and counselor. The very first step in healing and recovery, is finding someone with whom you feel safe opening up, someone who you feel sincerely cares about your life, and someone who can and wants to understand exactly what you are going through.
At the heart of every successful therapy experience, is a genuine connection and trust between client and counselor. The very first step in healing and recovery, is finding someone with whom you feel safe opening up, someone who you feel sincerely cares about your life, and someone who can and wants to understand exactly what you are going through.
(336) 542-2239 View (336) 542-2239
Photo of Carla Turner, M Ed, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carla Turner
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC
Verified Verified
Reidsville, NC 27320  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Modalities utilized in our sessions may include Polyvagal Theory, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
If you are reading this, chances are you have been through difficult and painful experiences, and I want you to know that you are not alone. Are you ready to take the first step towards healing? Are you willing to approach therapy with an open mind and a willingness to try new things? If you have experienced childhood trauma, you may be struggling with a wide range of symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a general feeling of disconnect from yourself and others. You may also be struggling with issues related to self-worth, trust, sexuality, relationships, substance abuse and boundary setting.
Modalities utilized in our sessions may include Polyvagal Theory, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
If you are reading this, chances are you have been through difficult and painful experiences, and I want you to know that you are not alone. Are you ready to take the first step towards healing? Are you willing to approach therapy with an open mind and a willingness to try new things? If you have experienced childhood trauma, you may be struggling with a wide range of symptoms, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, or a general feeling of disconnect from yourself and others. You may also be struggling with issues related to self-worth, trust, sexuality, relationships, substance abuse and boundary setting.
(540) 426-3055 View (540) 426-3055

Online Therapists

Photo of Eileen Santaella, PsyD, Psychologist
Eileen Santaella
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am trained in both Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization ( EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
I emphasize the importance of a strong genuine therapeutic relationship, self-care, and self-compassion. I provide a space where clients can feel safe being authentic and vulnerable. I encourage and support each of my clients to utilize introspection to gain insight into their well-being through evaluating and recognizing your strengths, stuck points, and potential blindspots to begin creating lasting change. I am particularly passionate about helping individuals understand how your trauma impacts your physical and cognitive development, relationships with others, and view of self and others.
I am trained in both Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization ( EMDR) and Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT).
I emphasize the importance of a strong genuine therapeutic relationship, self-care, and self-compassion. I provide a space where clients can feel safe being authentic and vulnerable. I encourage and support each of my clients to utilize introspection to gain insight into their well-being through evaluating and recognizing your strengths, stuck points, and potential blindspots to begin creating lasting change. I am particularly passionate about helping individuals understand how your trauma impacts your physical and cognitive development, relationships with others, and view of self and others.
(919) 373-3166 View (919) 373-3166
Photo of Hilary Flint, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Hilary Flint
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27410  (Online Only)
Now scheduling Autism/ADHD assessments! Waitlist for ongoing therapy. I am a neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, EMDR and ERP trained therapist. I work with clients to heal from past experiences, live authentically, and feel more connected to themselves. I meet each client exactly where they are, using resilience-based and social justice informed approaches. I offer personalized therapy to meet your individual needs and work toward your goals. I prioritize providing you with a safe and affirming space for healing and exploration. I offer online therapy to individuals residing anywhere in North Carolina.
Now scheduling Autism/ADHD assessments! Waitlist for ongoing therapy. I am a neurodiversity affirming, trauma informed, EMDR and ERP trained therapist. I work with clients to heal from past experiences, live authentically, and feel more connected to themselves. I meet each client exactly where they are, using resilience-based and social justice informed approaches. I offer personalized therapy to meet your individual needs and work toward your goals. I prioritize providing you with a safe and affirming space for healing and exploration. I offer online therapy to individuals residing anywhere in North Carolina.
(984) 214-4648 View (984) 214-4648
Photo of Juliana Blanton, LCMHC, NCC, MA, Counselor
Juliana Blanton
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Within counseling, I will draw upon trauma-informed approaches including EMDR and IFS as needed, and integrate other frameworks including CBT and Mindfulness.
Life can throw us some major challenges and often people can end up in survival mode, panic mode, or just struggling to get out of bed in the morning. Counseling provides resources and support for moving out of these modes into well-being, health, and joy. Each person comes to counseling with their own strengths and challenges. My job as a therapist is to support each person as they move towards their goals such as decreasing anxiety and depression, healing from old wounds or trauma, learning skills to manage emotions or experiences, exploring themes such as identity and self-esteem, working through relationship conflicts, and more.
Within counseling, I will draw upon trauma-informed approaches including EMDR and IFS as needed, and integrate other frameworks including CBT and Mindfulness.
Life can throw us some major challenges and often people can end up in survival mode, panic mode, or just struggling to get out of bed in the morning. Counseling provides resources and support for moving out of these modes into well-being, health, and joy. Each person comes to counseling with their own strengths and challenges. My job as a therapist is to support each person as they move towards their goals such as decreasing anxiety and depression, healing from old wounds or trauma, learning skills to manage emotions or experiences, exploring themes such as identity and self-esteem, working through relationship conflicts, and more.
(336) 560-9055 View (336) 560-9055
Photo of Nichole Gause, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nichole Gause
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078  (Online Only)
My other go-to tools include Reality Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness techniques, EMDR.
If you are struggling, know there is no need to go it alone. Everyone may think you are as put together as a jigsaw puzzle, but you feel like you are falling apart behind the scenes, stress is causing you headaches and other pains, or you are having difficulty coping. I want to partner with you to make it better. I work incredibly well with clients who desire to use their faith in their healing process.
My other go-to tools include Reality Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Mindfulness techniques, EMDR.
If you are struggling, know there is no need to go it alone. Everyone may think you are as put together as a jigsaw puzzle, but you feel like you are falling apart behind the scenes, stress is causing you headaches and other pains, or you are having difficulty coping. I want to partner with you to make it better. I work incredibly well with clients who desire to use their faith in their healing process.
(704) 594-8048 View (704) 594-8048
Photo of Crystal Murphy, LCMHC, MACC, NCC
Crystal Murphy
LCMHC, MACC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
When necessary EMDR will be used.
I enjoy working with women, teens 16+, and blended families as well as pre-marital, married, and dating couples. I am experienced with adulting, anger management, anxiety, depression, faith and spiritual issues, peer relationships, people pleasers, relationship issues, self-esteem, women issues, work-life balance, and trauma. I welcome clients to join me outside for Walk & Talk therapy (weather permitting). Also, when mutually agreed, I enjoy integrating Christian principles into therapy.
When necessary EMDR will be used.
I enjoy working with women, teens 16+, and blended families as well as pre-marital, married, and dating couples. I am experienced with adulting, anger management, anxiety, depression, faith and spiritual issues, peer relationships, people pleasers, relationship issues, self-esteem, women issues, work-life balance, and trauma. I welcome clients to join me outside for Walk & Talk therapy (weather permitting). Also, when mutually agreed, I enjoy integrating Christian principles into therapy.
(704) 445-3408 View (704) 445-3408
Photo of Dr. Steph Cooke, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Steph Cooke
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
A renowned therapist once said, “the person is not the problem, the problem is the problem.” Sometimes we can lose sight of that. I view a big part of my role as helping clients overcome narratives and beliefs that lead to feelings of shame, failure, and hopelessness. In working together, we will identify where these stories may be present, what their impacts are, and how you can rewrite them. I use Narrative Therapy, EMDR, The Gottman Method, and Brainspotting to help clients process their experiences and realize their potential.
A renowned therapist once said, “the person is not the problem, the problem is the problem.” Sometimes we can lose sight of that. I view a big part of my role as helping clients overcome narratives and beliefs that lead to feelings of shame, failure, and hopelessness. In working together, we will identify where these stories may be present, what their impacts are, and how you can rewrite them. I use Narrative Therapy, EMDR, The Gottman Method, and Brainspotting to help clients process their experiences and realize their potential.
(336) 717-0266 View (336) 717-0266
Photo of Lauren DellaRocca, LCMHCA, Counselor
Lauren DellaRocca
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morrisville, NC 27560
Current Openings as of Nov 2nd, 2023! EMDR Trained! Lauren has worked with different populations in a variety of settings, Including children, teens and adults. In the settings of partial hospitalization, day treatment, intensive outpatient (group) and outpatient therapy. Lauren will use a mix of CBT and EMDR in her work with her clients. Lauren works with teens and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, and trauma.
Current Openings as of Nov 2nd, 2023! EMDR Trained! Lauren has worked with different populations in a variety of settings, Including children, teens and adults. In the settings of partial hospitalization, day treatment, intensive outpatient (group) and outpatient therapy. Lauren will use a mix of CBT and EMDR in her work with her clients. Lauren works with teens and adults dealing with anxiety, depression, stress, grief, life transitions, and trauma.
(919) 689-4270 View (919) 689-4270
Photo of Basil Guyer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Basil Guyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27705  (Online Only)
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. I've been providing psychotherapy since 2017, and have a long career history in disability work. Overall I have 17 years experience in Carework. I work primarily with adult individuals & couples with marginalized identities (in gender, sexuality, ability, neurotype, race, body size, etc), and I also provide EMDR Intensives as well as Autism & ADHD Assessments for adults.
I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in Pennsylvania and North Carolina. I've been providing psychotherapy since 2017, and have a long career history in disability work. Overall I have 17 years experience in Carework. I work primarily with adult individuals & couples with marginalized identities (in gender, sexuality, ability, neurotype, race, body size, etc), and I also provide EMDR Intensives as well as Autism & ADHD Assessments for adults.
(919) 289-8164 View (919) 289-8164
Photo of Ashley Craft, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Craft
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27603  (Online Only)
I utilize Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization ( EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Trauma Informed Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
Hi - It's nice to meet you! You have already taken the first step to becoming a better version of yourself. Many of the clients that I work with have undergone some type of trauma and/or are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, or a toxic or abusive relationship. Additionally, I have started serving women who are experiencing postpartum anxiety and/or depression.
I utilize Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization ( EMDR), Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Trauma Informed Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, and Mindfulness.
Hi - It's nice to meet you! You have already taken the first step to becoming a better version of yourself. Many of the clients that I work with have undergone some type of trauma and/or are experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, low self-esteem, or a toxic or abusive relationship. Additionally, I have started serving women who are experiencing postpartum anxiety and/or depression.
(984) 205-3628 View (984) 205-3628
Photo of Jessica Jeremiah, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Jeremiah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Mebane, NC 27302
EMDR is often considered the fastest, most effective treatment for clients experiencing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or troubling memories from any point in their lives.
Every person I serve has a unique story. While some clients experience challenges in just one area, most experience difficulty multiple areas (mental health, trauma, loss, addiction), creating a complex, vicious cycle if not all parts are addressed. The circumstances that bring someone to therapy do not come in 'neat little packages.' I enjoy sorting out the pieces with each client, getting to the root of the issue, and offering a combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions that help clients finally begin to experience relief, and start living a happier, more fulfilled life.
EMDR is often considered the fastest, most effective treatment for clients experiencing symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder or troubling memories from any point in their lives.
Every person I serve has a unique story. While some clients experience challenges in just one area, most experience difficulty multiple areas (mental health, trauma, loss, addiction), creating a complex, vicious cycle if not all parts are addressed. The circumstances that bring someone to therapy do not come in 'neat little packages.' I enjoy sorting out the pieces with each client, getting to the root of the issue, and offering a combination of evidence-based therapeutic interventions that help clients finally begin to experience relief, and start living a happier, more fulfilled life.
(919) 585-5163 View (919) 585-5163
Photo of Erin Haverkamp, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin Haverkamp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Davidson, NC 28036
I use EMDR as well as CBT and other treatment modalities to work towards healing, not just coping.
You feel anxious, depressed and haunted by past experiences, keeping you from enjoying work & personal success. You’re great at your job; you can set goals and achieve them every time. But despite how good life might look from the outside, you struggle with feelings of shame or anxiety and can’t quite connect in meaningful relationships. You might be wondering if some of the experiences you had as a child, or earlier in life, are influencing the way you’re feeling today. It’s hard figuring that out on your own, and you’re ready to make those connections and finally feel better.
I use EMDR as well as CBT and other treatment modalities to work towards healing, not just coping.
You feel anxious, depressed and haunted by past experiences, keeping you from enjoying work & personal success. You’re great at your job; you can set goals and achieve them every time. But despite how good life might look from the outside, you struggle with feelings of shame or anxiety and can’t quite connect in meaningful relationships. You might be wondering if some of the experiences you had as a child, or earlier in life, are influencing the way you’re feeling today. It’s hard figuring that out on your own, and you’re ready to make those connections and finally feel better.
(980) 372-7195 View (980) 372-7195
Photo of Lori Thompson, MA, LCMHC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lori Thompson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Oak Ridge, NC 27310  (Online Only)
I am also fully trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy.
I provide therapy to adults. My special interests are working with individuals experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, mood swings, relational conflict, grief and loss, career transitions, and more.
I am also fully trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) therapy.
I provide therapy to adults. My special interests are working with individuals experiencing symptoms of trauma, depression, anxiety, mood swings, relational conflict, grief and loss, career transitions, and more.
(336) 515-6577 View (336) 515-6577
Photo of Erin Cooley-Gross, MS, LCMHC, QS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erin Cooley-Gross
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27455  (Online Only)
I am certified in CPT and EMDR modalities of therapy.
Hey! Welcome to the first step (or possibly the 100th step) in your self healing journey. I believe we are all innately capable of becoming aligned with our authenticity and to be the expert of ourselves. But sometimes we get in our own way! I guide my clients to be a more whole version of themselves; whether it be working through childhood trauma or by breaking down the barriers to new relationships. I use evidence-based modalities to help anyone on the road to self discovery and healing.
I am certified in CPT and EMDR modalities of therapy.
Hey! Welcome to the first step (or possibly the 100th step) in your self healing journey. I believe we are all innately capable of becoming aligned with our authenticity and to be the expert of ourselves. But sometimes we get in our own way! I guide my clients to be a more whole version of themselves; whether it be working through childhood trauma or by breaking down the barriers to new relationships. I use evidence-based modalities to help anyone on the road to self discovery and healing.
(336) 530-5553 View (336) 530-5553
Photo of Shelley Freeman, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cary, NC 27519  (Online Only)
I have completed training in EMDR through Institute for Creative Mindfulness and I have completed the Certification process through EMDRIA (www.
This is too much. This is too overwhelming. How do I find my grounding? Motherhood comes with so many challenges. I help moms thrive without fear, anxiety and overwhelm. My clients struggle as you do. Despite being strong, capable and amazing, life is hard. Even harder really since becoming a mom. When you first come in, you’re struggling to know yourself, inundated with overwhelm, fear, worry and a heavy load. Everyone’s load may look different, but it’s heavy. With EMDR, moms can begin to feel less overwhelmed, less triggered, less anxious and there’s room for more joy!
I have completed training in EMDR through Institute for Creative Mindfulness and I have completed the Certification process through EMDRIA (www.
This is too much. This is too overwhelming. How do I find my grounding? Motherhood comes with so many challenges. I help moms thrive without fear, anxiety and overwhelm. My clients struggle as you do. Despite being strong, capable and amazing, life is hard. Even harder really since becoming a mom. When you first come in, you’re struggling to know yourself, inundated with overwhelm, fear, worry and a heavy load. Everyone’s load may look different, but it’s heavy. With EMDR, moms can begin to feel less overwhelmed, less triggered, less anxious and there’s room for more joy!
(910) 817-2612 View (910) 817-2612
Photo of Alexandra 'ali' Martin, MS, NCC, LPC, CSAT, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandra 'ali' Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, CSAT, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
My primary treatment modalities include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR and Brainspotting.
Not presently accepting new clients. I am privileged to be in a profession where I am a witness to the strength people have in their most difficult times. The buildup of stress, anxiety, disconnection, traumatic events, or major life transitions can leave you feeling helpless, hopeless, and looking for relief in ways that feel confusing and unauthentic. Being able to reflect and come to the conclusion that there has to be a different way to cope is the first step toward enacting change. In therapy, my clients work to heal from past hurts, address current stressors, and plan for a vibrant future.
My primary treatment modalities include: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR and Brainspotting.
Not presently accepting new clients. I am privileged to be in a profession where I am a witness to the strength people have in their most difficult times. The buildup of stress, anxiety, disconnection, traumatic events, or major life transitions can leave you feeling helpless, hopeless, and looking for relief in ways that feel confusing and unauthentic. Being able to reflect and come to the conclusion that there has to be a different way to cope is the first step toward enacting change. In therapy, my clients work to heal from past hurts, address current stressors, and plan for a vibrant future.
(704) 666-0748 View (704) 666-0748
Photo of Maria Paredes, PhD, LCMHCS, CEDS-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maria Paredes
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS, CEDS-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27405
I am a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist and am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting, evidenced-based treatments for trauma.
Tired of hating your body? Of waiting until you lose weight to pursue your goals or dreams? Do you struggle with binge or emotional eating and want to be able to enjoy food again? Do you have a medical condition like PCOS that makes it difficult to trust your body? Imagine spending your days focused on the people, activities, and ideas you love. Free from negative thinking, fear of food, and body hate. It is possible! You deserve to enjoy food, to move in ways that feel joyful, and to treat your body kindly and gently. I help people feel at home in their bodies, make peace with food, and live fuller lives.
I am a Certified Eating Disorders Specialist and am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting, evidenced-based treatments for trauma.
Tired of hating your body? Of waiting until you lose weight to pursue your goals or dreams? Do you struggle with binge or emotional eating and want to be able to enjoy food again? Do you have a medical condition like PCOS that makes it difficult to trust your body? Imagine spending your days focused on the people, activities, and ideas you love. Free from negative thinking, fear of food, and body hate. It is possible! You deserve to enjoy food, to move in ways that feel joyful, and to treat your body kindly and gently. I help people feel at home in their bodies, make peace with food, and live fuller lives.
(336) 792-5504 View (336) 792-5504
Photo of Kelly Tucci, LCMHCA, Counselor
Kelly Tucci
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knightdale, NC 27545
I draw on therapeutic techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, ACT, and mindfulness.
The human experience is one filled with highs and lows. I am here to sit with you through times when you feel overwhelmed, stressed, need support, and celebrate the big moments too. I am passionate about supporting individuals experiencing challenges related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, self-esteem, and women’s health issues. We will work together to meet your goals so you can show up as your most authentic self!
I draw on therapeutic techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, ACT, and mindfulness.
The human experience is one filled with highs and lows. I am here to sit with you through times when you feel overwhelmed, stressed, need support, and celebrate the big moments too. I am passionate about supporting individuals experiencing challenges related to anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, self-esteem, and women’s health issues. We will work together to meet your goals so you can show up as your most authentic self!
(919) 634-6697 View (919) 634-6697

See more therapy options for Rockingham County

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.