EMDR Therapists in Amarillo, TX

Photo of Tracy Simpson, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tracy Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79111  (Online Only)
If you are ready to shed the pain of the past and soar into a bright new future, I'd love to join your journey and help you along the way. My name is Tracy, and I'm happy you are ready to take the next step in a transformation. I've had more than a decade of experience helping clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD and past/present trauma. My clients appreciate my caring, compassionate, non-judgmental, and genuine counseling style. My therapeutic approaches consist of CBT, mindfulness, solution focused and EMDR. I provide therapy services to clients residing in Texas and Internationally through secure video.
If you are ready to shed the pain of the past and soar into a bright new future, I'd love to join your journey and help you along the way. My name is Tracy, and I'm happy you are ready to take the next step in a transformation. I've had more than a decade of experience helping clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD and past/present trauma. My clients appreciate my caring, compassionate, non-judgmental, and genuine counseling style. My therapeutic approaches consist of CBT, mindfulness, solution focused and EMDR. I provide therapy services to clients residing in Texas and Internationally through secure video.
(806) 216-5436 View (806) 216-5436
Photo of Lindsey Ann Boman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey Ann Boman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79106
Waitlist for new clients
I have additional training in approaches such as; EMDR, Internal Family Systems theory, Exposure therapy, Somatic therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, CBT and Behavioral techniques.
It is my belief that people are inherently good and doing the best they can. However, sometimes we all need additional support to get through difficult times. Consequently, I consider the therapeutic relationship to be a powerful tool that can help you gain awareness into behaviors and issues that may be keeping you “stuck”. Since we are all unique, I believe in honoring your individuality by taking an integrative approach to the therapeutic process. My goal in treatment is to meet you where you are, and provide a safe and compassionate environment in which you can heal and grow.
I have additional training in approaches such as; EMDR, Internal Family Systems theory, Exposure therapy, Somatic therapy, Interpersonal Psychotherapy, CBT and Behavioral techniques.
It is my belief that people are inherently good and doing the best they can. However, sometimes we all need additional support to get through difficult times. Consequently, I consider the therapeutic relationship to be a powerful tool that can help you gain awareness into behaviors and issues that may be keeping you “stuck”. Since we are all unique, I believe in honoring your individuality by taking an integrative approach to the therapeutic process. My goal in treatment is to meet you where you are, and provide a safe and compassionate environment in which you can heal and grow.
(806) 615-3064 View (806) 615-3064
Photo of Stephanie B Cobb, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie B Cobb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79106
Waitlist for new clients
I enjoy helping people deal with trauma and frequently use EMDR to help people reprocess troubling memories.
My job as a counselor is not to "fix" people or give advice, but to help people learn to "fix" the things in their life that are not working through education, cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior modification, and other therapy modalities. When something in our life is not working well, we need to make changes to become happier and more content.
I enjoy helping people deal with trauma and frequently use EMDR to help people reprocess troubling memories.
My job as a counselor is not to "fix" people or give advice, but to help people learn to "fix" the things in their life that are not working through education, cognitive behavioral therapy, behavior modification, and other therapy modalities. When something in our life is not working well, we need to make changes to become happier and more content.
(806) 589-3870 View (806) 589-3870
Photo of Jill Rios, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Rios
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79101
I use a variety of modalities and am an EMDR therapist trained through EMDRIA.
Life is a journey and sometimes that journey leaves people broken without the tools to know how to "fix" the issues. Are you experiencing brokenness right now? It is my job to help clients learn how to use their strengths so that clients can grow to their full potential. Counseling can also help establish healthy boundaries, heal from a traumatic circumstance, and learn self - discovery.
I use a variety of modalities and am an EMDR therapist trained through EMDRIA.
Life is a journey and sometimes that journey leaves people broken without the tools to know how to "fix" the issues. Are you experiencing brokenness right now? It is my job to help clients learn how to use their strengths so that clients can grow to their full potential. Counseling can also help establish healthy boundaries, heal from a traumatic circumstance, and learn self - discovery.
(806) 424-4675 View (806) 424-4675
Photo of Caleb Baker, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caleb Baker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79101
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that my job as a counselor isn't to "fix" my clients but to help them develop a plan where they can attend to and address the issues in their lives. My aim with my clients isn't simply to help them pause an issue in their lives temporarily but to understand why those issues present themselves in the first place so that they can be dealt with appropriately. I primarily use EMDR to help my clients grow in their lives. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ folx and individuals hoping to deconstruct beliefs/attitudes absorbed through harmful religious upbringings.
I believe that my job as a counselor isn't to "fix" my clients but to help them develop a plan where they can attend to and address the issues in their lives. My aim with my clients isn't simply to help them pause an issue in their lives temporarily but to understand why those issues present themselves in the first place so that they can be dealt with appropriately. I primarily use EMDR to help my clients grow in their lives. I enjoy working with LGBTQIA+ folx and individuals hoping to deconstruct beliefs/attitudes absorbed through harmful religious upbringings.
(806) 513-5988 View (806) 513-5988
Photo of Tiffany Carpenter, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79109
I have specialized training and experience to facilitate EMDR with children and am equipped to help children process trauma in a way they can understand, even when they don’t have the cognitive ability to explain their experience.
I spent my first fourteen years of clinical social work working with children and families in a residential care setting. I have experience in treating trauma and attachment wounds. I believe that a person’s intrauterine experience and history of adverse events and/or stressors can shape one's life – creating unwanted physical sensations, emotions, depression, anxiety, and trouble building and sustaining healthy relationships with others. I am trained in EMDR therapy and use EMDR as a tool to aid in decreasing stressful feelings and experiences.
I have specialized training and experience to facilitate EMDR with children and am equipped to help children process trauma in a way they can understand, even when they don’t have the cognitive ability to explain their experience.
I spent my first fourteen years of clinical social work working with children and families in a residential care setting. I have experience in treating trauma and attachment wounds. I believe that a person’s intrauterine experience and history of adverse events and/or stressors can shape one's life – creating unwanted physical sensations, emotions, depression, anxiety, and trouble building and sustaining healthy relationships with others. I am trained in EMDR therapy and use EMDR as a tool to aid in decreasing stressful feelings and experiences.
(806) 608-2849 View (806) 608-2849
Photo of Carol Humbert, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Humbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79109
I have received training in trauma-informed, attachment-based therapy such as EMDR, TBRI and interpersonal neurobiology.
I provide guidance for my clients to heal from the impact of stressful or hard life circumstances by forming healthy connections with themselves and others. I chose the name of my counseling practice intentionally for this reason. Most aspen trees grow in large clonal colonies, sharing the same root system. I believe that we as humans were wired for connection like the aspen tree. Sometimes our internal or external connections can be stressed, broken, wounded, or vacant. Counseling offers us a place to create healing space so that we can find greater integration with ourselves and others.
I have received training in trauma-informed, attachment-based therapy such as EMDR, TBRI and interpersonal neurobiology.
I provide guidance for my clients to heal from the impact of stressful or hard life circumstances by forming healthy connections with themselves and others. I chose the name of my counseling practice intentionally for this reason. Most aspen trees grow in large clonal colonies, sharing the same root system. I believe that we as humans were wired for connection like the aspen tree. Sometimes our internal or external connections can be stressed, broken, wounded, or vacant. Counseling offers us a place to create healing space so that we can find greater integration with ourselves and others.
(806) 602-8257 View (806) 602-8257
Photo of Christin Hall, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christin Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79109
EMDR is believed to work similarly to REM sleep, in which eye movements are thought to aid in the processing of memories.
Life continually poses many challenges. Most of the time we are able to manage and cope with these stressors quite well. At times, however, life may become so overwhelming and the pressure becomes so great that it begins to affect our work, our relationships with those we love and our overall outlook on life. As a counselor my job is to help you find manageable solutions to seemingly unmanageable life circumstances. I have experience working with young adults and adults facing a variety of issues, some of which include addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, codependency and anger management.
EMDR is believed to work similarly to REM sleep, in which eye movements are thought to aid in the processing of memories.
Life continually poses many challenges. Most of the time we are able to manage and cope with these stressors quite well. At times, however, life may become so overwhelming and the pressure becomes so great that it begins to affect our work, our relationships with those we love and our overall outlook on life. As a counselor my job is to help you find manageable solutions to seemingly unmanageable life circumstances. I have experience working with young adults and adults facing a variety of issues, some of which include addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, codependency and anger management.
(806) 686-1667 View (806) 686-1667
Photo of Alyssa Duncan, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Duncan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79109
I use an integrative approach to counseling, drawing from several therapeutic modalities, including EMDR.
Whether it's a struggle with anxiety, relationships issues, or past trauma we find ways to keep going. Yet, sometimes, there is still something lacking, unfinished or stale about our lives. Some of us have been surviving for so long we forgot that living is a possibility-or, maybe, never got the chance to live unencumbered in the first place. I love working with individuals to live empowered lives instead of merely surviving the days ahead.
I use an integrative approach to counseling, drawing from several therapeutic modalities, including EMDR.
Whether it's a struggle with anxiety, relationships issues, or past trauma we find ways to keep going. Yet, sometimes, there is still something lacking, unfinished or stale about our lives. Some of us have been surviving for so long we forgot that living is a possibility-or, maybe, never got the chance to live unencumbered in the first place. I love working with individuals to live empowered lives instead of merely surviving the days ahead.
(806) 203-5737 View (806) 203-5737
Photo of Monica Bellar - Monica Bellar LPC, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Monica Bellar LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79101
I am certified in EMDR and as an Emergency Responder Public Safety Clinician.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have a holistic perspective to counseling. I believe as humans we can always reach beyond our pain or limitations and can expand our understanding of life experiences to be healthier than we are today. I have 20+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with a multitude of issues including anxiety and trauma. I have experience working with blended families and co-parenting situations.
I am certified in EMDR and as an Emergency Responder Public Safety Clinician.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. I have a holistic perspective to counseling. I believe as humans we can always reach beyond our pain or limitations and can expand our understanding of life experiences to be healthier than we are today. I have 20+ years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults dealing with a multitude of issues including anxiety and trauma. I have experience working with blended families and co-parenting situations.
(806) 731-4615 View (806) 731-4615
Photo of Nina Moreno, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nina Moreno
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79101
Nina also works with couples utilizing the Gottman Method and provides EMDR intensive sessions.
As one travels through this journey we call life, it is normal that one may experience challenges that appear to be "unfixable". When it feels like your emotions, anxieties, and worries are taking over, Nina Moreno wants to be at your side and assist you in discovering a path to healing and happiness. Nina’s goal is to help you identify, understand, and overcome the stressors that influence your life. Nina Moreno also worked in the field of education. She was a teacher at the elementary level and a school counselor at the elementary and middle school level.
Nina also works with couples utilizing the Gottman Method and provides EMDR intensive sessions.
As one travels through this journey we call life, it is normal that one may experience challenges that appear to be "unfixable". When it feels like your emotions, anxieties, and worries are taking over, Nina Moreno wants to be at your side and assist you in discovering a path to healing and happiness. Nina’s goal is to help you identify, understand, and overcome the stressors that influence your life. Nina Moreno also worked in the field of education. She was a teacher at the elementary level and a school counselor at the elementary and middle school level.
(806) 414-3377 View (806) 414-3377
Photo of Terri R Slaughter, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terri R Slaughter
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79102
I enjoy assisting people that understand that it takes work to change behaviors. People that are struggling with life issues, depression, anxiety, marital struggles are all those I enjoy teaching tools to allow them to utilize to change. I am trained in EMDR and certified in Level 2 in Restoration Therapy and Marital Affair Recovery and Licensed to Supervise Associates in Counseling.
I enjoy assisting people that understand that it takes work to change behaviors. People that are struggling with life issues, depression, anxiety, marital struggles are all those I enjoy teaching tools to allow them to utilize to change. I am trained in EMDR and certified in Level 2 in Restoration Therapy and Marital Affair Recovery and Licensed to Supervise Associates in Counseling.
(806) 853-9108 View (806) 853-9108
Photo of Haley McGoffin, LCSW, TCYM, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Haley McGoffin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, TCYM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79109
With the understanding that past experiences can have a profound impact on the present, I have received certification in multiple trauma-informed modalities such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and trauma conscious yoga from the Trauma Conscious Yoga Institute.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a passion for creating a safe and supportive space for healing. My approach emphasizes compassionate and inclusive care, ensuring everyone feels welcome and respected regardless of background or identity. My clinical interests include working with adolescents and their caregivers to establish and maintain healthy relationships, anxiety, depression, art therapy, and somatic modalities, such as mindfulness, yoga, and tapping.
With the understanding that past experiences can have a profound impact on the present, I have received certification in multiple trauma-informed modalities such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and trauma conscious yoga from the Trauma Conscious Yoga Institute.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with a passion for creating a safe and supportive space for healing. My approach emphasizes compassionate and inclusive care, ensuring everyone feels welcome and respected regardless of background or identity. My clinical interests include working with adolescents and their caregivers to establish and maintain healthy relationships, anxiety, depression, art therapy, and somatic modalities, such as mindfulness, yoga, and tapping.
(806) 542-3423 View (806) 542-3423
Photo of Greg Kinsey, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Greg Kinsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79101
Waitlist for new clients
This is done using traditional talk therapy and specialized evidence-based therapies such as EMDR, sleep/nightmare therapy, and addiction therapy.
Mental health concerns can be difficult, distracting and even exhausting. Doing it alone can become overwhelming. My goal is to create an inviting and nonjudgmental environment in which together, we can explore and actively pursue learning, healing, growth, and obtaining balance in your life. I will meet you where you are and together, we will establish a plan to address your concerns.
This is done using traditional talk therapy and specialized evidence-based therapies such as EMDR, sleep/nightmare therapy, and addiction therapy.
Mental health concerns can be difficult, distracting and even exhausting. Doing it alone can become overwhelming. My goal is to create an inviting and nonjudgmental environment in which together, we can explore and actively pursue learning, healing, growth, and obtaining balance in your life. I will meet you where you are and together, we will establish a plan to address your concerns.
(806) 304-0191 View (806) 304-0191
Photo of John Allen Moore, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Allen Moore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79106
I am trained in EMDR Therapy and other trauma-informed interventions such as, Restoration Therapy and mindfulness.
GLADLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS! AFTER HOURS AND WEEKEND SESSIONS AVAILABLE! Each person's journey is filled with stories of both triumph and tragedy. Our stories should be honored and explored in a safe and accepting environment. Depending on where you are on your journey, you might be feeling discouraged, disconnected, or depressed. Sometimes when we are in these places we can feel stuck in negative patterns or lost in unhealthy coping. Counseling can help a person find the support they need and discover the skills for empowerment and healing. I specialize in attachment and trauma-related issues in both children and adults.
I am trained in EMDR Therapy and other trauma-informed interventions such as, Restoration Therapy and mindfulness.
GLADLY TAKING NEW CLIENTS! AFTER HOURS AND WEEKEND SESSIONS AVAILABLE! Each person's journey is filled with stories of both triumph and tragedy. Our stories should be honored and explored in a safe and accepting environment. Depending on where you are on your journey, you might be feeling discouraged, disconnected, or depressed. Sometimes when we are in these places we can feel stuck in negative patterns or lost in unhealthy coping. Counseling can help a person find the support they need and discover the skills for empowerment and healing. I specialize in attachment and trauma-related issues in both children and adults.
(806) 375-4273 View (806) 375-4273
Photo of Audry Hollis, MEd, NCC
Audry Hollis
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79106
Wait-list for new clients! EMDR Trained! How we talk to ourselves is a direct reflection of how we feel about the world around us. These thoughts can come from others or internally. Changing our thoughts and patterns is difficult, but necessary. Traumas, stressors, anxiety, and depression are all factors. Each person has a unique experience in life. Becoming the best version of ourselves is the goal. Working through life's stressors is necessary for healing and growth.
Wait-list for new clients! EMDR Trained! How we talk to ourselves is a direct reflection of how we feel about the world around us. These thoughts can come from others or internally. Changing our thoughts and patterns is difficult, but necessary. Traumas, stressors, anxiety, and depression are all factors. Each person has a unique experience in life. Becoming the best version of ourselves is the goal. Working through life's stressors is necessary for healing and growth.
(806) 304-5619 View (806) 304-5619
Photo of Anna Needham, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Needham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79101  (Online Only)
I am trained to provide EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which is a highly effective treatment protocol for trauma.
••Now Accepting New Clients in TX, CO, and OK•• Are you looking for support? I’m so glad you’re here. My passion is to walk alongside others through life’s challenges whether that’s a season of adjustment, feelings of depression or anxiety, or processing through trauma. In our time together I will work to help you know that you are heard, valued, and worthy of finding healing. If you are experiencing flashbacks, high emotional responses to triggers, or find yourself stuck on a loop of negative thoughts, we can work together to lessen and rid of those symptoms!
I am trained to provide EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), which is a highly effective treatment protocol for trauma.
••Now Accepting New Clients in TX, CO, and OK•• Are you looking for support? I’m so glad you’re here. My passion is to walk alongside others through life’s challenges whether that’s a season of adjustment, feelings of depression or anxiety, or processing through trauma. In our time together I will work to help you know that you are heard, valued, and worthy of finding healing. If you are experiencing flashbacks, high emotional responses to triggers, or find yourself stuck on a loop of negative thoughts, we can work together to lessen and rid of those symptoms!
(405) 562-7989 View (405) 562-7989
Photo of Joey Sorenson, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joey Sorenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Amarillo, TX 79106
Utilizing CBT and EMDR therapy, I facilitate my clients achieving clarity on their core values and goals in life, and help them develop practical plans to achieve them while overcoming obstacles along the way.
Are you struggling to find motivation or purpose? Is it hard getting out of bed in the morning some or most days? Do you feel like your life isn't where you had hoped it would be by now? You're not alone, and you've come to the right place. Every person needs help sometimes, and it takes courage to acknowledge it when that person is ourselves. I've helped many people in the same boat that you're in. Utilizing scientifically-proven approaches, I empower burnt-out professionals and young adults to prioritize their long-term health and happiness and take concrete steps to reach their goals in life, work, and love.
Utilizing CBT and EMDR therapy, I facilitate my clients achieving clarity on their core values and goals in life, and help them develop practical plans to achieve them while overcoming obstacles along the way.
Are you struggling to find motivation or purpose? Is it hard getting out of bed in the morning some or most days? Do you feel like your life isn't where you had hoped it would be by now? You're not alone, and you've come to the right place. Every person needs help sometimes, and it takes courage to acknowledge it when that person is ourselves. I've helped many people in the same boat that you're in. Utilizing scientifically-proven approaches, I empower burnt-out professionals and young adults to prioritize their long-term health and happiness and take concrete steps to reach their goals in life, work, and love.
(512) 855-2678 View (512) 855-2678
Photo of Leigh Wells, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leigh Wells
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79106
I am also a fully trained EMDR therapist from an Emdria approved training program.
Life can be challenging at times, and some seasons are difficult and painful to go through. There are times our lives take an unexpected turn, and you may have found yourself in a place you never thought you would be. I can help you navigate the unexpected life changes, and develop the ability to handle future turns in your journey. Many of my clients are experiencing anxiety, grief and loss, depression, or life transitions. I will listen to you, and a plan will be developed for changes you want to make in your life.
I am also a fully trained EMDR therapist from an Emdria approved training program.
Life can be challenging at times, and some seasons are difficult and painful to go through. There are times our lives take an unexpected turn, and you may have found yourself in a place you never thought you would be. I can help you navigate the unexpected life changes, and develop the ability to handle future turns in your journey. Many of my clients are experiencing anxiety, grief and loss, depression, or life transitions. I will listen to you, and a plan will be developed for changes you want to make in your life.
(806) 416-8348 View (806) 416-8348
Photo of Erin E. Evanson-Lass - Waypoints Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Waypoints Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Amarillo, TX 79107
I offer EMDR Therapy for trauma and PTSD related issues.
It can happen to anyone. Life is going along just fine, and then before you realize what happened, you find yourself in a tough situation you never expected. Coping with it has been far from easy, to say the least. You're not alone! If it's a traumatic event, if it's ongoing circumstances that impact your mood and overall functioning, perhaps I can help. I have specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy, as well as Solutions-Focused Therapy. I use a holistic approach; considering the whole person in their environment.
I offer EMDR Therapy for trauma and PTSD related issues.
It can happen to anyone. Life is going along just fine, and then before you realize what happened, you find yourself in a tough situation you never expected. Coping with it has been far from easy, to say the least. You're not alone! If it's a traumatic event, if it's ongoing circumstances that impact your mood and overall functioning, perhaps I can help. I have specialized training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy, as well as Solutions-Focused Therapy. I use a holistic approach; considering the whole person in their environment.
(806) 553-2617 View (806) 553-2617
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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.