EMDR Therapists in Burleson, TX

Photo of Reva Jo Sheppard, LPC, LVN, Chapln, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reva Jo Sheppard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LVN, Chapln
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76097
Reva Sheppard is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Vocational Nurse, and Chaplain. She graduated from Texas Wesleyan University's Master of Arts in Professional Counseling program. Reva has special training for treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) using Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR). Reva also trained in London, England with the experts in "Solution Focus Therapy". Reva keeps abreast of the latest research on the brain and weaves this evidence-based research into her therapy practice. She has been exposed to different cultures within the US, and appreciates their unique strengths.
Reva Sheppard is a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Vocational Nurse, and Chaplain. She graduated from Texas Wesleyan University's Master of Arts in Professional Counseling program. Reva has special training for treating Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) using Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR). Reva also trained in London, England with the experts in "Solution Focus Therapy". Reva keeps abreast of the latest research on the brain and weaves this evidence-based research into her therapy practice. She has been exposed to different cultures within the US, and appreciates their unique strengths.
(817) 727-8427 View (817) 727-8427
Photo of Bailey Adams, MS , LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bailey Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS , LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burleson, TX 76028
I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety and depression symptoms. I am a trauma informed therapist who uses the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) approach. I have a peaked interest in psychoeducation; including but not limited to, coping skills, boundary setting, attachment styles, locus of control, self-esteem, cognitive distortions, core belief work and much more.
I specialize in working with individuals with anxiety and depression symptoms. I am a trauma informed therapist who uses the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) approach. I have a peaked interest in psychoeducation; including but not limited to, coping skills, boundary setting, attachment styles, locus of control, self-esteem, cognitive distortions, core belief work and much more.
(817) 663-4379 View (817) 663-4379
Photo of William Robert Sheppard, DMin, LPC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
William Robert Sheppard
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76097  (Online Only)
Included in my treatment are specialty methods like EMDR and EFT.
I am not the mythical King Midas; everything he touched turned to gold. I am not a graffiti artist, trying to paint a happy face on something that sees itself as worthless. I am a custodian, wiping away the debris off of someone of immeasurable value; who does not realize his or her value. My goal is for patients to recognize their incredible worth, and the abundance of personal strengths and tools they have inside themselves. I want each one to be fully human, fully free, fully congruent (what you see is what you get, no pretenses), and fully alive as soon as possible.
Included in my treatment are specialty methods like EMDR and EFT.
I am not the mythical King Midas; everything he touched turned to gold. I am not a graffiti artist, trying to paint a happy face on something that sees itself as worthless. I am a custodian, wiping away the debris off of someone of immeasurable value; who does not realize his or her value. My goal is for patients to recognize their incredible worth, and the abundance of personal strengths and tools they have inside themselves. I want each one to be fully human, fully free, fully congruent (what you see is what you get, no pretenses), and fully alive as soon as possible.
(817) 405-4321 View (817) 405-4321
Photo of Carrie M Allen - Regal Oak Counseling, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CFRC, CCTP-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Regal Oak Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, CFRC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burleson, TX 76028
Christian counseling and EMDR services available.
Our counselors see individuals, couples, families, and groups. Their specializations address specific areas of difficulty to help you find healing and empowerment, in a genuinely caring, safe therapeutic relationship. We enjoying helping those who struggle with relationship issues, work/life transitions, grief/loss, crisis/trauma and other concerns. Other services provided include EMDR and Neurofeedback.
Christian counseling and EMDR services available.
Our counselors see individuals, couples, families, and groups. Their specializations address specific areas of difficulty to help you find healing and empowerment, in a genuinely caring, safe therapeutic relationship. We enjoying helping those who struggle with relationship issues, work/life transitions, grief/loss, crisis/trauma and other concerns. Other services provided include EMDR and Neurofeedback.
(682) 305-2432 View (682) 305-2432
Photo of Tom Worthley - Hope Restored Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope Restored Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burleson, TX 76028
In addition, I am a certified in EMDR.
Hope Restored Counseling exists to provide Christian counseling in a grace-filled, Christ-centered environment. We help people learn to enjoy living life by working with them to identify and overcome recurring struggles that hold them back. Often times it is past abuse, anxiety, stress, anger, relationship struggles, or just loss of direction. As a licensed clinical social worker I have the experience and training to help you clearly identify the area of concern and work with you to create a plan to address it.
In addition, I am a certified in EMDR.
Hope Restored Counseling exists to provide Christian counseling in a grace-filled, Christ-centered environment. We help people learn to enjoy living life by working with them to identify and overcome recurring struggles that hold them back. Often times it is past abuse, anxiety, stress, anger, relationship struggles, or just loss of direction. As a licensed clinical social worker I have the experience and training to help you clearly identify the area of concern and work with you to create a plan to address it.
(817) 984-5410 View (817) 984-5410
Photo of Stephanie Fox, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Fox
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist, and also use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
Hello! I am glad you're here :) My name is Stephanie Fox and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified EMDR Therapist, with a Master's in Education. For 14 years, I worked in the public school system where I found my love of helping people regulate big emotions. Since then, I have specialized in working with all ages concentrating on coping with anxiety, ADHD, and processing trauma. I believe that we are all way more capable than we give ourselves credit for, and that no matter what, things can -and will- get better.
I am a Certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist, and also use CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
Hello! I am glad you're here :) My name is Stephanie Fox and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified EMDR Therapist, with a Master's in Education. For 14 years, I worked in the public school system where I found my love of helping people regulate big emotions. Since then, I have specialized in working with all ages concentrating on coping with anxiety, ADHD, and processing trauma. I believe that we are all way more capable than we give ourselves credit for, and that no matter what, things can -and will- get better.
(682) 243-8381 View (682) 243-8381
Photo of Kim Garrett, LCSW-S, LCDC, CCISM, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Garrett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, LCDC, CCISM, MBA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burleson, TX 76028
I am Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) an excellent technique that addresses abuse, abandonment, loss, depression, anxiety, and more.
Are you feeling alone, anxious, grieved, or deeply sad? Traumatic events and losses in life are very common, yet rarely discussed. They have a far-reaching impact on our lives, our relationships, our health, our work and our play. Also, research has found that the way we were cared for as children greatly impacts our relationships throughout life. For some of us, this can feel very overwhelming. The good news is that we can heal from past hurts and enjoy more contentment and peace of mind starting today. Using scientifically sound practices, we can actually change the way we think, feel, and relate to others.
I am Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) an excellent technique that addresses abuse, abandonment, loss, depression, anxiety, and more.
Are you feeling alone, anxious, grieved, or deeply sad? Traumatic events and losses in life are very common, yet rarely discussed. They have a far-reaching impact on our lives, our relationships, our health, our work and our play. Also, research has found that the way we were cared for as children greatly impacts our relationships throughout life. For some of us, this can feel very overwhelming. The good news is that we can heal from past hurts and enjoy more contentment and peace of mind starting today. Using scientifically sound practices, we can actually change the way we think, feel, and relate to others.
(682) 255-2762 View (682) 255-2762
Photo of Devan Kennedy, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Devan Kennedy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burleson, TX 76028
I specialize in treating a broad range of struggles stemming from trauma using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). Before exploring your trauma, I work with you to build emotional resources and integrate various modalities to help you handle distressing emotions, thoughts, feelings, and memories more adaptively. This comprehensive approach strengthens your coping skills and creates a solid foundation for deeper trauma work. My practice is dedicated to offering compassionate, client-centered therapy for trauma, whether from ongoing invalidation, specific abuse, or other distressing events.
I specialize in treating a broad range of struggles stemming from trauma using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). Before exploring your trauma, I work with you to build emotional resources and integrate various modalities to help you handle distressing emotions, thoughts, feelings, and memories more adaptively. This comprehensive approach strengthens your coping skills and creates a solid foundation for deeper trauma work. My practice is dedicated to offering compassionate, client-centered therapy for trauma, whether from ongoing invalidation, specific abuse, or other distressing events.
(817) 784-7239 View (817) 784-7239
Photo of Shemila Chancellor - Mid Cities Counseling Center, PLLC, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mid Cities Counseling Center, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burleson, TX 76028
I am EMDR trained and Gottman trained.
It is never easy to reach out for help, but it is the first step to a journey towards peace and joyful living. I have a focus on starting where the client is and believe in working with my patients to maintain and improve their mental health and emotional well-being. We work together to create balance and peace during all stages of life. I have served clients throughout Central Texas for many years including combat trauma victims (PTSD) at the Department of Veterans Affairs and have established my current practice serving DFW and the Mid Cities.
I am EMDR trained and Gottman trained.
It is never easy to reach out for help, but it is the first step to a journey towards peace and joyful living. I have a focus on starting where the client is and believe in working with my patients to maintain and improve their mental health and emotional well-being. We work together to create balance and peace during all stages of life. I have served clients throughout Central Texas for many years including combat trauma victims (PTSD) at the Department of Veterans Affairs and have established my current practice serving DFW and the Mid Cities.
(817) 888-8131 View (817) 888-8131
Photo of Mallory Brooke Peterman, MEd, LPC, EMDR
Mallory Brooke Peterman
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MEd, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burleson, TX 76028  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained! I have flexibility in my schedule to work around client's availability including evenings and weekends.
Accepting new clients! EMDR (trauma) trained! My practice focuses primarily on serving individuals (teens and adults) as well as families and couples. Some presenting problems I treat are trauma, daily/life stressors, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, suicidal ideation, self harm, and all things divorce and blended families. I am a former school counselor and educator of 16 years. I am here to help reach your goals to live your best life!
I am EMDR trained! I have flexibility in my schedule to work around client's availability including evenings and weekends.
Accepting new clients! EMDR (trauma) trained! My practice focuses primarily on serving individuals (teens and adults) as well as families and couples. Some presenting problems I treat are trauma, daily/life stressors, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, mood disorders, personality disorders, ADHD, suicidal ideation, self harm, and all things divorce and blended families. I am a former school counselor and educator of 16 years. I am here to help reach your goals to live your best life!
(817) 754-5934 View (817) 754-5934
Photo of Ebony Skinner, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ebony Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR trained with a specialty in trauma and trauma associated issues.
We all have a unique story that can influence the relationship we have with ourselves and others. You may have experienced situations that have left you feeling worried, stressed or overwhelmed. Those experiences may try to interfere with you mentally, emotionally and leave doubting yourself and your abilities. Sometimes, you may be trying to juggle it all and have difficulty managing stress, work and family life. If you can relate to any of these experiences, you are not alone. I believe that despite life's challenges, you have inner strengths and abilities that can help you to reconnect with yourself and create a path forward.
I am EMDR trained with a specialty in trauma and trauma associated issues.
We all have a unique story that can influence the relationship we have with ourselves and others. You may have experienced situations that have left you feeling worried, stressed or overwhelmed. Those experiences may try to interfere with you mentally, emotionally and leave doubting yourself and your abilities. Sometimes, you may be trying to juggle it all and have difficulty managing stress, work and family life. If you can relate to any of these experiences, you are not alone. I believe that despite life's challenges, you have inner strengths and abilities that can help you to reconnect with yourself and create a path forward.
(817) 396-7871 View (817) 396-7871
Photo of DeJonae Gardiner, LCSW, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
DeJonae Gardiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028  (Online Only)
If you are seeking restoration from a difficult life situation, attempting to heal from a traumatic experience, or in need of additional support and guidance through a challenging season in life, or in need of developing a new insight to your life, I look forward to helping you achieve your goals.
If you are seeking restoration from a difficult life situation, attempting to heal from a traumatic experience, or in need of additional support and guidance through a challenging season in life, or in need of developing a new insight to your life, I look forward to helping you achieve your goals.
(682) 463-1035 View (682) 463-1035
Photo of Aramy Denley, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aramy Denley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028
Taking time out for yourself is often an overwhelming task. Getting help isn’t easy. I know. I’ve been there. And I know, this is an important step. Sometimes in life we go through painful experiences. We usually try our best to work though that pain alone. Maybe we even have close friends and family who we confide in…but we still may feel alone, disconnected, or misunderstood. We are not designed to heal from pain and emotional injury by ourselves - alone. Having attempted that myself, I managed to only compound that loneliness and pain. Ultimately, professional guidance helped lead my healing. I think I can help lead yours.
Taking time out for yourself is often an overwhelming task. Getting help isn’t easy. I know. I’ve been there. And I know, this is an important step. Sometimes in life we go through painful experiences. We usually try our best to work though that pain alone. Maybe we even have close friends and family who we confide in…but we still may feel alone, disconnected, or misunderstood. We are not designed to heal from pain and emotional injury by ourselves - alone. Having attempted that myself, I managed to only compound that loneliness and pain. Ultimately, professional guidance helped lead my healing. I think I can help lead yours.
(817) 484-6759 View (817) 484-6759
Photo of Olga Nikitina - Tres Raices Family Center PLLC, LPC-A
Tres Raices Family Center PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028
Olga Nikitina earned four master's degrees. Three of them are related to psychology. She earned a master's degree at the Institute of Law, MA Clinical Psychology in Moscow, Russia. Second and third master's degrees in Amberton University, MA in Marriage and Family Therapy, MA in Professional Counseling in Garland, Texas. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of April West, LPC-S. Olga's clinical experience and interest include working with adults and children from 4 years old to couples. In Therapy, her focus has been on Anxiety, Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Codependency, Relationshi
Olga Nikitina earned four master's degrees. Three of them are related to psychology. She earned a master's degree at the Institute of Law, MA Clinical Psychology in Moscow, Russia. Second and third master's degrees in Amberton University, MA in Marriage and Family Therapy, MA in Professional Counseling in Garland, Texas. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate under the supervision of April West, LPC-S. Olga's clinical experience and interest include working with adults and children from 4 years old to couples. In Therapy, her focus has been on Anxiety, Depression, Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, Codependency, Relationshi
(817) 813-6434 View (817) 813-6434
Photo of Christine R Nickerson, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christine R Nickerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Burleson, TX 76028
The road to discovering yourself can be difficult and confusing. With the right skills and strategies, you can increase your capacity to navigate a thriving life and enhance your emotional awareness. I strive to help my clients regain control of their lives. As a clinical therapist, I work to help children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families manage the struggles and stress of life, as well as those affected by low self-esteem, depression, anger, anxiety, poor communication styles, and trauma.
The road to discovering yourself can be difficult and confusing. With the right skills and strategies, you can increase your capacity to navigate a thriving life and enhance your emotional awareness. I strive to help my clients regain control of their lives. As a clinical therapist, I work to help children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families manage the struggles and stress of life, as well as those affected by low self-esteem, depression, anger, anxiety, poor communication styles, and trauma.
(469) 609-1988 View (469) 609-1988
Photo of Jodi Nicholson, PhD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Nicholson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burleson, TX 76028
Not accepting new clients
“We repeat what we don’t repair.” - Christine Langley-Obaugh My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My primary approach is cognitive-behavioral, though I am eclectic in my techniques. I believe each individual's needs are unique and will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals.
“We repeat what we don’t repair.” - Christine Langley-Obaugh My counseling style is warm and interactive. I believe in treating everyone with respect, sensitivity, and compassion, and I don't believe in stigmatizing labels. My primary approach is cognitive-behavioral, though I am eclectic in my techniques. I believe each individual's needs are unique and will tailor our dialog and treatment plan to meet your specific needs and goals.
(682) 463-1012 View (682) 463-1012

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Martin McClenon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Martin McClenon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alvarado, TX 76009
The treatments and methods include Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to provide comprehensive treatment to fit an individual’s specific needs.
Hi, my name is Martin McClenon. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, as well as a Combat Navy Veteran. I have been practicing for 3 years in community health, outpatient, inpatient, and private practice settings. I am experienced in facilitating healthy life changes. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma substance use, PTSD, relationship issues, or any other obstacle that prevents you from living the life that you desire; identifying the right therapist for you is an important part of getting yourself back on track.
The treatments and methods include Person-Centered, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused, Motivational Interviewing, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to provide comprehensive treatment to fit an individual’s specific needs.
Hi, my name is Martin McClenon. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor in Texas, as well as a Combat Navy Veteran. I have been practicing for 3 years in community health, outpatient, inpatient, and private practice settings. I am experienced in facilitating healthy life changes. Whether you are dealing with anxiety, depression, trauma substance use, PTSD, relationship issues, or any other obstacle that prevents you from living the life that you desire; identifying the right therapist for you is an important part of getting yourself back on track.
(469) 564-3850 View (469) 564-3850
Photo of Stephanie Lynn Davis, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Lynn Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Alvarado, TX 76009
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and EMDR.
It takes courage to take the first step and reach out for help. I strive to create a safe and welcoming space where you are able to share your story. My goal is for you to feel honored, valued and heard. Maybe you are dealing with relationship concerns like a change in your family situation or concerns with a child. Maybe you or your child is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or trying to overcome low self-esteem. Possibly, there are struggles with family, life transitions, friends or school. All of these topics can be tough but talking with someone can help. I would be honored to help you with any of your concerns.
I use a variety of therapeutic approaches including Solution-Focused Brief Therapy and EMDR.
It takes courage to take the first step and reach out for help. I strive to create a safe and welcoming space where you are able to share your story. My goal is for you to feel honored, valued and heard. Maybe you are dealing with relationship concerns like a change in your family situation or concerns with a child. Maybe you or your child is feeling overwhelmed, anxious, depressed or trying to overcome low self-esteem. Possibly, there are struggles with family, life transitions, friends or school. All of these topics can be tough but talking with someone can help. I would be honored to help you with any of your concerns.
(214) 463-2374 View (214) 463-2374
Photo of Stephanie Smith, MS, LPC, NCC, CFRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CFRC
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76140  (Online Only)
I know it can be a difficult decision to seek therapy. I am committed to providing compassionate and non-judgmental support by providing a safe space for clients to open up. I work with adults struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, trauma, severe mental illness, and ADHD. I believe that it is important to feel heard, understood, and safe while working together. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. I have experience in working with police, EMS, grief/bereavement, life stage transitions, career issues, and suicidal ideation.
I know it can be a difficult decision to seek therapy. I am committed to providing compassionate and non-judgmental support by providing a safe space for clients to open up. I work with adults struggling with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, suicidal thoughts, trauma, severe mental illness, and ADHD. I believe that it is important to feel heard, understood, and safe while working together. I am trained in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. I have experience in working with police, EMS, grief/bereavement, life stage transitions, career issues, and suicidal ideation.
(806) 605-2753 View (806) 605-2753
Photo of Jean Gray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Worth, TX 76133
I am a versatile therapist skilled in assessments, intakes, crisis management, substance use, domestic violence, trauma, women's issues, anxiety and depression. I have been trained in EMDR, solutions-focused therapy, structural family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy, among other treatment modalities.
I am a versatile therapist skilled in assessments, intakes, crisis management, substance use, domestic violence, trauma, women's issues, anxiety and depression. I have been trained in EMDR, solutions-focused therapy, structural family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy, among other treatment modalities.
(214) 214-4303 View (214) 214-4303
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.