EMDR Therapists in League City, TX

Photo of Kirsten Reynolds, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kirsten Reynolds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
I use EMDR, Brainspotting, PIT, MI, TBRI, CBT, DBT, EFT, ego-state work, enneagram, somatic interventions, dog love & more to help you heal.
Are looking to heal from childhood wounds, family of origin pain, relationship issues, or traumatic experiences? Have you experienced difficult things in life and know that it’s affecting you but haven’t known how to address it other than talking about it? My clients are aware that their past experiences affect who they are & how they show up in the world & are ready to shift things by addressing their pain. I specialize in helping people achieve lasting relief & growth from the experiences that shape & impact us. Learn more about canine therapy, intensive options, & take our quiz to see if we fit! www.gracefullyrootedcounseling.com
I use EMDR, Brainspotting, PIT, MI, TBRI, CBT, DBT, EFT, ego-state work, enneagram, somatic interventions, dog love & more to help you heal.
Are looking to heal from childhood wounds, family of origin pain, relationship issues, or traumatic experiences? Have you experienced difficult things in life and know that it’s affecting you but haven’t known how to address it other than talking about it? My clients are aware that their past experiences affect who they are & how they show up in the world & are ready to shift things by addressing their pain. I specialize in helping people achieve lasting relief & growth from the experiences that shape & impact us. Learn more about canine therapy, intensive options, & take our quiz to see if we fit! www.gracefullyrootedcounseling.com
(346) 666-7360 View (346) 666-7360
Photo of Katherine Portillo - League City Counseling and Education Center, MEd, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
League City Counseling and Education Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
We have counselors trained in EMDR, DBT, Gottman method and IFS.
We are a group practice that consists of professional counselors and master’s level coaches. The experience of our dedicated counselors and staff enables us to offer compassionate and effective mental wellness care. We work with individuals with a variety of mental health challenges; including but not limited to, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions and goal setting. We provide a neutral and safe ground for individuals, families and couples to better understand themselves and each other.
We have counselors trained in EMDR, DBT, Gottman method and IFS.
We are a group practice that consists of professional counselors and master’s level coaches. The experience of our dedicated counselors and staff enables us to offer compassionate and effective mental wellness care. We work with individuals with a variety of mental health challenges; including but not limited to, trauma, anxiety, depression, substance use, life transitions and goal setting. We provide a neutral and safe ground for individuals, families and couples to better understand themselves and each other.
(281) 724-5908 View (281) 724-5908
Photo of Katherine Portillo, MEd, LPC, LCDC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katherine Portillo
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
I am also an EMDR trained therapist, which is a modality that helps process trauma.
Sometimes life can become unmanageable and we feel like there is no way out of certain situations. Our therapeutic focus is centered to every client's needs and personal situation. I like to focus on reframing thoughts and emotions and educating clients on resources that will make their life more manageable and help each client reach a sense of contentment.
I am also an EMDR trained therapist, which is a modality that helps process trauma.
Sometimes life can become unmanageable and we feel like there is no way out of certain situations. Our therapeutic focus is centered to every client's needs and personal situation. I like to focus on reframing thoughts and emotions and educating clients on resources that will make their life more manageable and help each client reach a sense of contentment.
(281) 771-1378 View (281) 771-1378
Photo of Victor Nolan Hirsch - Hirsch and Associates, PhD, Psychologist
Hirsch and Associates
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
I specialize in treating the effects of trauma and abuse with EMDR and Brainspotting.
As a psychologist in private practice for 38 years, with training and experience from a clinical psychology internship , a post doc fellowship in preventive medicine, author of a stress management workbook, director of psychiatric and alcohol substance abuse units; I understand the struggles we all can experience in these difficult times. The goals at Hirsch & Associates are to improve your quality of life. We have long standing experience in increasing feelings of emotional well being, managing depression, anxiety and stress.
I specialize in treating the effects of trauma and abuse with EMDR and Brainspotting.
As a psychologist in private practice for 38 years, with training and experience from a clinical psychology internship , a post doc fellowship in preventive medicine, author of a stress management workbook, director of psychiatric and alcohol substance abuse units; I understand the struggles we all can experience in these difficult times. The goals at Hirsch & Associates are to improve your quality of life. We have long standing experience in increasing feelings of emotional well being, managing depression, anxiety and stress.
(281) 247-6954 View (281) 247-6954
Photo of Jeanné Dyer, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jeanné Dyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
www.jeannecounseling.com (469) 431-2794 I can walk you through decreasing the challenges of anxiety, depression, and disruptive behavior, and improve academic success, communication in relationships, and education of positive parenting practices. I work with individuals and groups, who have experienced ongoing stress and trauma, using EMDR therapy. EMDR can relieve emotions and sensations that are tied to past trauma and stress. It is my personal and professional desire to help you gain clarity and peace so that the rest of your life can be fully lived with intention, awareness, and you can actually experience joy again.
www.jeannecounseling.com (469) 431-2794 I can walk you through decreasing the challenges of anxiety, depression, and disruptive behavior, and improve academic success, communication in relationships, and education of positive parenting practices. I work with individuals and groups, who have experienced ongoing stress and trauma, using EMDR therapy. EMDR can relieve emotions and sensations that are tied to past trauma and stress. It is my personal and professional desire to help you gain clarity and peace so that the rest of your life can be fully lived with intention, awareness, and you can actually experience joy again.
(832) 895-7766 View (832) 895-7766
Photo of Christina L Garcia, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina L Garcia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
I also have trauma therapy experience and am EMDR trained.
Clients of , In These Shoes Therapy and Wellness, come to our practice to be treated for anxiety, depression, PTSD, parenting and more. We meet clients where they are in their mental health journey in an effort to move forward in health. We accept multiple insurances or self pay. Please reach out if you believe we might be a good fit for you.
I also have trauma therapy experience and am EMDR trained.
Clients of , In These Shoes Therapy and Wellness, come to our practice to be treated for anxiety, depression, PTSD, parenting and more. We meet clients where they are in their mental health journey in an effort to move forward in health. We accept multiple insurances or self pay. Please reach out if you believe we might be a good fit for you.
(281) 767-8424 View (281) 767-8424
Photo of Kirsten Reynolds - Gracefully Rooted Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gracefully Rooted Therapy, Animal Assisted Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
I use EMDR, Brainspotting, PIT, MI, TBRI, CBT, DBT, EFT, ego-state work, enneagram, somatic interventions, dog love & more to help you heal.
Are looking to heal from childhood wounds, family of origin pain, relationship issues, or traumatic experiences? Have you experienced difficult things in life and know that it’s affecting you but haven’t known how to address it other than talking about it? My clients are aware that their past experiences affect who they are & how they show up in the world & are ready to shift things by addressing their pain. I specialize in helping people achieve lasting relief & growth from the experiences that shape & impact us. Learn more about canine therapy, intensive options, & take our quiz to see if we fit! www.gracefullyrootedcounseling.com
I use EMDR, Brainspotting, PIT, MI, TBRI, CBT, DBT, EFT, ego-state work, enneagram, somatic interventions, dog love & more to help you heal.
Are looking to heal from childhood wounds, family of origin pain, relationship issues, or traumatic experiences? Have you experienced difficult things in life and know that it’s affecting you but haven’t known how to address it other than talking about it? My clients are aware that their past experiences affect who they are & how they show up in the world & are ready to shift things by addressing their pain. I specialize in helping people achieve lasting relief & growth from the experiences that shape & impact us. Learn more about canine therapy, intensive options, & take our quiz to see if we fit! www.gracefullyrootedcounseling.com
(281) 559-7716 View (281) 559-7716
Photo of Faith L Larson - Holistic Hope / Faith L. Larson, LCSW-S, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Holistic Hope / Faith L. Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Post Induction Therapy (PIT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) based on the Polyvagal theory.
Embark on a journey of healing with personalized support from a certified clinical trauma professional and integrative mental health specialist. Whether you're navigating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, or relationship challenges, I'm here to meet you where you are and guide you towards holistic well-being.
I have extensive training in therapeutic approaches such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Post Induction Therapy (PIT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) based on the Polyvagal theory.
Embark on a journey of healing with personalized support from a certified clinical trauma professional and integrative mental health specialist. Whether you're navigating trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, stress, or relationship challenges, I'm here to meet you where you are and guide you towards holistic well-being.
(281) 532-8457 View (281) 532-8457
Photo of Katy Hewson, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katy Hewson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
I am also EMDR certified.
Everyone experiences seasons in life and challenging circumstances that are difficult to manage. Whether you are struggling with relationship issues, work, adjusting to motherhood, worried about your teenager, feeling down or anxious, dealing with an illness, or grieving the loss of a loved one, there is hope for overcoming your trials and learning how to better prepare yourself for the future.
I am also EMDR certified.
Everyone experiences seasons in life and challenging circumstances that are difficult to manage. Whether you are struggling with relationship issues, work, adjusting to motherhood, worried about your teenager, feeling down or anxious, dealing with an illness, or grieving the loss of a loved one, there is hope for overcoming your trials and learning how to better prepare yourself for the future.
(713) 955-6647 View (713) 955-6647
Photo of Michele L Bachman, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michele L Bachman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
Not accepting new clients
Most of us go through times that can be helped by conferring with an unbiased, supportive, listening ear. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and EMDR techniques that have a high level of scientific support. By balancing compassion and honest feedback, I help my clients change unhelpful patterns of behavior. I love to teach practical tools to help my clients face fears...to not only cope with life but to flourish.
Most of us go through times that can be helped by conferring with an unbiased, supportive, listening ear. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and EMDR techniques that have a high level of scientific support. By balancing compassion and honest feedback, I help my clients change unhelpful patterns of behavior. I love to teach practical tools to help my clients face fears...to not only cope with life but to flourish.
(281) 747-5692 View (281) 747-5692
Photo of Stephanie R Rodriguez, MSW, LCSW-S, CSAT , SEP, CDWF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie R Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S, CSAT , SEP, CDWF
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
This is where EMDR comes in.
That painful event keeps replaying over and over in your head. You can’t stop seeing the images of it. Thoughts of what you could have done differently play on repeat. They force their way into your mind, leaving you overwhelmed, panicked, and burnt out. The triggers are everywhere and anxiety and depression feel like they’re constantly looming over you. If you could just let it go maybe you could move on with your life. You no longer want to carry the weight of what happened but to enjoy the things you once loved.
This is where EMDR comes in.
That painful event keeps replaying over and over in your head. You can’t stop seeing the images of it. Thoughts of what you could have done differently play on repeat. They force their way into your mind, leaving you overwhelmed, panicked, and burnt out. The triggers are everywhere and anxiety and depression feel like they’re constantly looming over you. If you could just let it go maybe you could move on with your life. You no longer want to carry the weight of what happened but to enjoy the things you once loved.
(281) 810-3613 View (281) 810-3613
Photo of Michelle Cote, MA, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Cote
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
Do you struggle in certain areas in your life and want to do something about it? So many clients want to change, they are just not sure how to take that first step. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am trained to help with a range of issues. I work with individuals, families and couples. I have worked in a juvenile detention center working with teens and their families, and at the Council on Alcohol and Drugs, Houston. My specialities are trauma, EMDR, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, depression, anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, LGBT issues, PTSD, grief, parenting and marital issues.
Do you struggle in certain areas in your life and want to do something about it? So many clients want to change, they are just not sure how to take that first step. As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I am trained to help with a range of issues. I work with individuals, families and couples. I have worked in a juvenile detention center working with teens and their families, and at the Council on Alcohol and Drugs, Houston. My specialities are trauma, EMDR, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, depression, anxiety, life transitions, ADHD, LGBT issues, PTSD, grief, parenting and marital issues.
(409) 209-7590 View (409) 209-7590
Photo of Danielle Fyffe, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Fyffe
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
I am also an EMDR trained therapist (Eye Movement, Desensitization & Reprocessing).
Hi! As a clinically-trained therapist, I want you to know that the struggles you face and the traumas you have experienced do not have to define you. You have the ability to create a new path for yourself, to live the life you really want to live. I would love to help you create that life. As a Christian counselor, I believe God created perfection and placed it all in the Garden of Eden. Unfortunately, sin entered the picture and people have been struggling with the effects of sin ever since. Sometimes that struggle is beyond our resources and understanding. We need to have someone help us through life's troubles.
I am also an EMDR trained therapist (Eye Movement, Desensitization & Reprocessing).
Hi! As a clinically-trained therapist, I want you to know that the struggles you face and the traumas you have experienced do not have to define you. You have the ability to create a new path for yourself, to live the life you really want to live. I would love to help you create that life. As a Christian counselor, I believe God created perfection and placed it all in the Garden of Eden. Unfortunately, sin entered the picture and people have been struggling with the effects of sin ever since. Sometimes that struggle is beyond our resources and understanding. We need to have someone help us through life's troubles.
(281) 783-3574 View (281) 783-3574
Photo of Shelley McCaul-Parent, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelley McCaul-Parent
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
I use an eclectic approach and specialize in mind-body therapies (Brainspotting, EMDR, Flash Technique, Hypnotherapy), mindfulness based therapies, and brief solution focused therapy.
Is your past negatively impacting your life, or holding you back from what you really want? I specialize in trauma healing, overcoming the effects of toxic relationships, and teaching effective methods for coping with triggers, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. I’d love to work with you on rediscovering your joy, peace, and passion. I provide a nonjudgmental and relaxing atmosphere allowing clients to safely explore thoughts and feelings, to work through their baggage, and create the life they want.
I use an eclectic approach and specialize in mind-body therapies (Brainspotting, EMDR, Flash Technique, Hypnotherapy), mindfulness based therapies, and brief solution focused therapy.
Is your past negatively impacting your life, or holding you back from what you really want? I specialize in trauma healing, overcoming the effects of toxic relationships, and teaching effective methods for coping with triggers, low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. I’d love to work with you on rediscovering your joy, peace, and passion. I provide a nonjudgmental and relaxing atmosphere allowing clients to safely explore thoughts and feelings, to work through their baggage, and create the life they want.
(713) 636-5401 View (713) 636-5401
Photo of Courtney Shaw, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Shaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
I am trained in many therapeutic modalities including Person-Centered Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I believe that individuals are unique; each possessing their OWN worldview, which, ultimately, would make you the expert of your own life. Sometimes in life, we need assistance in our journey towards the realization and fulfillment of our own talents and potentials: self-actualization. I assist my clients by enabling them to move towards openness, developing a greater trust in themselves, building the willingness to process, and increase self-realization. All while providing a non-judgmental environment where your personal life experiences are heard, and you are valued as the unique human being that you are.
I am trained in many therapeutic modalities including Person-Centered Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I believe that individuals are unique; each possessing their OWN worldview, which, ultimately, would make you the expert of your own life. Sometimes in life, we need assistance in our journey towards the realization and fulfillment of our own talents and potentials: self-actualization. I assist my clients by enabling them to move towards openness, developing a greater trust in themselves, building the willingness to process, and increase self-realization. All while providing a non-judgmental environment where your personal life experiences are heard, and you are valued as the unique human being that you are.
(281) 688-5030 View (281) 688-5030
Photo of Jane Palacios, MA,  LPC
Jane Palacios
LPC-Associate, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
Accepting new clients! Call 713-678-0403 ext. 0 to schedule! Are you ready to explore the stories that have shaped you? If you're looking for a warm, welcoming, judgment-free space, I'd love to hear from you. I’m here to offer compassionate counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, combining my experience as an educator with clinical training and a passion for artistic expression. I’m dedicated to creating a warm, nurturing space for everyone. Using evidence-based practices like EMDR, CBT, and more, I gently guide clients in exploring their thoughts and feelings, fostering growth and resilience at their own pace.
Accepting new clients! Call 713-678-0403 ext. 0 to schedule! Are you ready to explore the stories that have shaped you? If you're looking for a warm, welcoming, judgment-free space, I'd love to hear from you. I’m here to offer compassionate counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, combining my experience as an educator with clinical training and a passion for artistic expression. I’m dedicated to creating a warm, nurturing space for everyone. Using evidence-based practices like EMDR, CBT, and more, I gently guide clients in exploring their thoughts and feelings, fostering growth and resilience at their own pace.
(832) 990-1622 View (832) 990-1622
Photo of Victoria C Scott, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Victoria C Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573
Using an attachment-based approach, using EMDR therapy and attachment research to address trauma, boost self-worth, and establish healthy boundaries.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by guilt, burdened by the responsibilities of others, or paralyzed by the fear of disappointing those around you, know that you’re not alone. Many clients feel out of control in their lives, plagued by self-doubt, and afraid to assert their own needs. you may avoid conflict at all costs, fearing judgment or rejection from others. We’ll explore coping strategies to help you manage overwhelming feelings of guilt and self-criticism, and learn to accept and embrace who you are without fear of judgment from others. Through our sessions, you’ll develop the skills and resilience needed to stand up for yourself.
Using an attachment-based approach, using EMDR therapy and attachment research to address trauma, boost self-worth, and establish healthy boundaries.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by guilt, burdened by the responsibilities of others, or paralyzed by the fear of disappointing those around you, know that you’re not alone. Many clients feel out of control in their lives, plagued by self-doubt, and afraid to assert their own needs. you may avoid conflict at all costs, fearing judgment or rejection from others. We’ll explore coping strategies to help you manage overwhelming feelings of guilt and self-criticism, and learn to accept and embrace who you are without fear of judgment from others. Through our sessions, you’ll develop the skills and resilience needed to stand up for yourself.
(346) 483-2856 View (346) 483-2856
Photo of Mark Hobson, LPC-A
Mark Hobson
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
Using CBT, REBT, and EMDR, I work with clients to help them learn new ways to think and act with hopes of improving their everyday life experiences.
If you are not enjoying life and you want support to navigate challenges, pain, anxiety, and difficult life issues, I can help support you through the process. Life can be difficult and sometimes we all need someone safe to walk us through our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and help manage those difficult spaces.
Using CBT, REBT, and EMDR, I work with clients to help them learn new ways to think and act with hopes of improving their everyday life experiences.
If you are not enjoying life and you want support to navigate challenges, pain, anxiety, and difficult life issues, I can help support you through the process. Life can be difficult and sometimes we all need someone safe to walk us through our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors, and help manage those difficult spaces.
(281) 393-4521 View (281) 393-4521
Photo of Dyana Robbins, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dyana Robbins
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
League City, TX 77573
Using a trauma-informed approach grounded in EMDR, I will teach you to skillfully set boundaries, eliminate distractions, and tap into your purpose.
Leading others through ministry has been rewarding, but the constant grind has brought on exhaustion, chronic unease, physical problems, and anxiety. Unfortunately, these are "normal" in your life. You’ve had to press forward to achieve goals and suppress your own needs. When others see your life, they see someone who has it together, but you know the chaos inside. You have ideals you never seem to meet, leaving you feeling demoralized. You would give almost anything to have real REST, but no matter what you try, you cannot relax or find peace. You know this is not how you are meant to live.
Using a trauma-informed approach grounded in EMDR, I will teach you to skillfully set boundaries, eliminate distractions, and tap into your purpose.
Leading others through ministry has been rewarding, but the constant grind has brought on exhaustion, chronic unease, physical problems, and anxiety. Unfortunately, these are "normal" in your life. You’ve had to press forward to achieve goals and suppress your own needs. When others see your life, they see someone who has it together, but you know the chaos inside. You have ideals you never seem to meet, leaving you feeling demoralized. You would give almost anything to have real REST, but no matter what you try, you cannot relax or find peace. You know this is not how you are meant to live.
(832) 219-6133 View (832) 219-6133
Photo of Pam Hansen, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pam Hansen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
League City, TX 77573  (Online Only)
My diverse background and down to earth nature is a key element in my counseling style. I believe that for counseling to be most effective it must be done in an environment that is comfortable to my clients. If I can find a "medium" that they can relax in, they are more open about sharing their experiences with me". My counseling expertise is working with clients of domestic violence, sexual assault, recovery, PTSD, anxiety disorders, foster families/children, adjustment disorders and LGBT community. I am trained in EMDR, Brain Spotting and Experiential modes of therapy which I combine with other traditional modes of therapy.
My diverse background and down to earth nature is a key element in my counseling style. I believe that for counseling to be most effective it must be done in an environment that is comfortable to my clients. If I can find a "medium" that they can relax in, they are more open about sharing their experiences with me". My counseling expertise is working with clients of domestic violence, sexual assault, recovery, PTSD, anxiety disorders, foster families/children, adjustment disorders and LGBT community. I am trained in EMDR, Brain Spotting and Experiential modes of therapy which I combine with other traditional modes of therapy.
(830) 376-2888 View (830) 376-2888
1

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.