EMDR Therapists in McAllen, TX

Photo of Hong Elaine Dove, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hong Elaine Dove
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78504
Hi there. I’m a Vietnamese-American trauma therapist and EMDR practitioner. I specialize in treating trauma and helping people flourish. My clients come from many different backgrounds, genders, and orientations. I work with people from 35 different cultural backgrounds, with a special interest in mixed-culture folks. I also specialize in helping people realize their full potential and personal best in relationships, careers, and spiritual growth. My typical client is strong-minded, motivated by learning and growth, and interested in removing all obstacles to the realization of their best self.
Hi there. I’m a Vietnamese-American trauma therapist and EMDR practitioner. I specialize in treating trauma and helping people flourish. My clients come from many different backgrounds, genders, and orientations. I work with people from 35 different cultural backgrounds, with a special interest in mixed-culture folks. I also specialize in helping people realize their full potential and personal best in relationships, careers, and spiritual growth. My typical client is strong-minded, motivated by learning and growth, and interested in removing all obstacles to the realization of their best self.
(469) 820-3854 View (469) 820-3854
Photo of Daniela G. Barrios, MS, LPC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniela G. Barrios
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
Working with children, teens, and adults who have experienced traumatic experiences have led me to become trauma informed and receive training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced traumatic events throughout their lifetime. Your story is unique and you deserve to have a safe place to share your experiences without judgement. I enjoy providing that safe place for my clients whether it is In-Person or Telehealth. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients and meet them where they are at while working on their specific goals in treatment. I am ready to be part of your healing journey. Tu estas en control de tu vida, es tiempo de cuidar de ti. Llamame hoy para agendar tu cita o cualquier pregunta que tengas.
Working with children, teens, and adults who have experienced traumatic experiences have led me to become trauma informed and receive training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced traumatic events throughout their lifetime. Your story is unique and you deserve to have a safe place to share your experiences without judgement. I enjoy providing that safe place for my clients whether it is In-Person or Telehealth. I believe in building a strong therapeutic relationship with my clients and meet them where they are at while working on their specific goals in treatment. I am ready to be part of your healing journey. Tu estas en control de tu vida, es tiempo de cuidar de ti. Llamame hoy para agendar tu cita o cualquier pregunta que tengas.
(956) 948-7219 View (956) 948-7219
Photo of Jean Gray, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jean Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78504  (Online Only)
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.
(817) 631-8236 View (817) 631-8236
Photo of Tania Torres, LMSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Tania Torres
Pre-Licensed Professional, LMSW
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78504
I am trained in EMDR and the Trauma Conscious Yoga Method, both interventions focus on supporting individuals to process trauma.
You are light. You are wisdom. You are deserving of experiencing moments of joy and relief. Pause....take a deep breathe. Exhale. That moment belongs to you. It is autonomous and free. Sometimes our walk through life can feel daunting. It can be tiring. There are moments where we simply need support in carrying that weight as it can be confusing to understand all that we feel and why we are feeling it. But we keep walking in order to survive. We become good at survivng as that is all we may know. Unknowingly however we need connection, love, and community. So thank you for the moral courage to be here today investing in you.
I am trained in EMDR and the Trauma Conscious Yoga Method, both interventions focus on supporting individuals to process trauma.
You are light. You are wisdom. You are deserving of experiencing moments of joy and relief. Pause....take a deep breathe. Exhale. That moment belongs to you. It is autonomous and free. Sometimes our walk through life can feel daunting. It can be tiring. There are moments where we simply need support in carrying that weight as it can be confusing to understand all that we feel and why we are feeling it. But we keep walking in order to survive. We become good at survivng as that is all we may know. Unknowingly however we need connection, love, and community. So thank you for the moral courage to be here today investing in you.
(956) 398-5020 View (956) 398-5020
Photo of Eddie Rey - ER Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, MS, LPC, LMHC, EMDR-T, Licensed Professional Counselor
ER Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LMHC, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
Through introspective conversations, cognitive behavioral techniques, EMDR and executive coaching.
Life is challenging, and at some point we will find ourselves at a crossroads feeling lost, disconnected, and lacking the confidence we once had. If you're navigating through these uncertainties, know that you're not alone. In the secure and judgment-free environment together we will embark on a tailored journey to rediscover and embrace your true self. We will explore the roots of your challenges, providing you with the tools to break free from self-doubt and redefine your sense of self. Our therapeutic approach is uniquely designed to address the specific struggles that adults face in today's world.
Through introspective conversations, cognitive behavioral techniques, EMDR and executive coaching.
Life is challenging, and at some point we will find ourselves at a crossroads feeling lost, disconnected, and lacking the confidence we once had. If you're navigating through these uncertainties, know that you're not alone. In the secure and judgment-free environment together we will embark on a tailored journey to rediscover and embrace your true self. We will explore the roots of your challenges, providing you with the tools to break free from self-doubt and redefine your sense of self. Our therapeutic approach is uniquely designed to address the specific struggles that adults face in today's world.
(956) 403-6572 View (956) 403-6572
Photo of Marco A. Trevino - Alivio Counseling Services, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alivio Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78504
Trained and supervised in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, EMDR, Intrapersonal Psychotherapy for Depression, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Enhancement Therapy.
Alivio Counseling Services is committed to the mental wellness of our Clients, their families and the community through prevention, assessment, diagnosis, intervention, treatment and evaluation. Our goal is to work together with our Clients and address their needs from a holistic approach. We embrace our Clients goals as a team and ensure continuous support through the treatment process.
Trained and supervised in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Processing Therapy, EMDR, Intrapersonal Psychotherapy for Depression, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Motivational Enhancement Therapy.
Alivio Counseling Services is committed to the mental wellness of our Clients, their families and the community through prevention, assessment, diagnosis, intervention, treatment and evaluation. Our goal is to work together with our Clients and address their needs from a holistic approach. We embrace our Clients goals as a team and ensure continuous support through the treatment process.
(956) 405-7455 View (956) 405-7455
Photo of Dr. Cynthia V. Catchings - Dr. Catchings Women's Emotional Wellness Center, PhD, LCSW-S, CFTP, EMDR, LCSWC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Catchings Women's Emotional Wellness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW-S, CFTP, EMDR, LCSWC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78504  (Online Only)
Emotional issues are a community matter that affects us all. I am dedicated to meeting your needs through support, education, and direct services. I believe in a new high standard of response, helping you at the earliest stage and preventing unnecessary impairment and suffering for you and your family. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, and family violence. I also assist with immigration and home studies. My main goal is to ensure you live a happy life, free of pain and negativity. You are not alone. We can walk together until you feel ready to fly. Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S, CMHIMP, CLYL, CFTP, CMS, EMDR-T
Emotional issues are a community matter that affects us all. I am dedicated to meeting your needs through support, education, and direct services. I believe in a new high standard of response, helping you at the earliest stage and preventing unnecessary impairment and suffering for you and your family. I specialize in relationships, depression, anxiety, and family violence. I also assist with immigration and home studies. My main goal is to ensure you live a happy life, free of pain and negativity. You are not alone. We can walk together until you feel ready to fly. Cynthia V. Catchings, LCSW-S, CMHIMP, CLYL, CFTP, CMS, EMDR-T
(956) 438-2805 View (956) 438-2805
Photo of Marisa G Ugalde, DPC, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa G Ugalde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DPC, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78501
Waitlist for new clients
My practice is primarily with adults, adolescents and families, who are struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, past trauma and life challenges. Life at times can be hard, and relationships take a lot of work. My mission is to empower my clients to find their inner strengths to lead a happier, more fulfilled life. I provide a relaxed, comfortable environment for my clients to share those things in life they would like to change. I am trained to offer you EMDR Therapy® for PTSD. I use a directive counseling approach, providing homework and guidance, with a multimodal approach to therapy.
My practice is primarily with adults, adolescents and families, who are struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, past trauma and life challenges. Life at times can be hard, and relationships take a lot of work. My mission is to empower my clients to find their inner strengths to lead a happier, more fulfilled life. I provide a relaxed, comfortable environment for my clients to share those things in life they would like to change. I am trained to offer you EMDR Therapy® for PTSD. I use a directive counseling approach, providing homework and guidance, with a multimodal approach to therapy.
(956) 290-8918 View (956) 290-8918
Photo of Roxanne Ramirez, LCSW-S, CCTP, CMHIMP, CLYL, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roxanne Ramirez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CCTP, CMHIMP, CLYL
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78503
Waitlist for new clients
My clinical practice includes a Faith Based eclectic approach to therapy which incorporates EMDR Therapy along with other modalities.
Do you feel that you are surviving but you are not living life due to the pain that you have experienced? Often times we run away from the pain; we incorporate countless of ways to avoid it including through symptoms of anxiety, anxiety attacks, depression, substance, post-traumatic stress, adjustment disorders, anger, or any other means that will help us to not lean toward the pain. I often tell my clients, "You have to Feel in order to Heal," and this is where we take back our authentic power and we learn to thrive. Let me be the one to speak to that wounded part of YOU and allow me to say, you are able to HEAL!
My clinical practice includes a Faith Based eclectic approach to therapy which incorporates EMDR Therapy along with other modalities.
Do you feel that you are surviving but you are not living life due to the pain that you have experienced? Often times we run away from the pain; we incorporate countless of ways to avoid it including through symptoms of anxiety, anxiety attacks, depression, substance, post-traumatic stress, adjustment disorders, anger, or any other means that will help us to not lean toward the pain. I often tell my clients, "You have to Feel in order to Heal," and this is where we take back our authentic power and we learn to thrive. Let me be the one to speak to that wounded part of YOU and allow me to say, you are able to HEAL!
(956) 446-0236 View (956) 446-0236
Photo of Clarissa Anahi Cantu, MS, LPC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clarissa Anahi Cantu
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78501  (Online Only)
I often use (but not limited to) therapy approaches such as cognitive behavioral, solution focused, existential, person centered and EMDR.
Hi there, I am Clarissa! I know it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to seek counseling services, so I am glad that you found my page! I have had the joy of working in various mental health settings, like traditional talk therapy, women’s health clinics and non-profit organizations. My clinical experience has given me the opportunity to work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I also help clients navigate complicated grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, family/relationship, and self-esteem issues.
I often use (but not limited to) therapy approaches such as cognitive behavioral, solution focused, existential, person centered and EMDR.
Hi there, I am Clarissa! I know it takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to seek counseling services, so I am glad that you found my page! I have had the joy of working in various mental health settings, like traditional talk therapy, women’s health clinics and non-profit organizations. My clinical experience has given me the opportunity to work with children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I also help clients navigate complicated grief and loss, trauma, depression, anxiety, life transitions, family/relationship, and self-esteem issues.
(512) 640-0239 View (512) 640-0239
Photo of Victoria Reyna, MS, LPC, NCC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Victoria Reyna
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CRC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
If you are looking for a warm, secure, and supportive space to embark on your mental health journey, I am confident that we can work together to create it. My focus is on helping individuals navigate the challenges of trauma, anxiety disorders, and OCD. If you’re facing these struggles, remember you’re not alone, and there’s hope for a brighter, more fulfilling future. I utilize a range of therapeutic techniques, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
If you are looking for a warm, secure, and supportive space to embark on your mental health journey, I am confident that we can work together to create it. My focus is on helping individuals navigate the challenges of trauma, anxiety disorders, and OCD. If you’re facing these struggles, remember you’re not alone, and there’s hope for a brighter, more fulfilling future. I utilize a range of therapeutic techniques, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).
(512) 957-4419 View (512) 957-4419
Photo of Jessica Ann Santos, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica Ann Santos
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78504  (Online Only)
I utilize a combination of treatment approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Collaborative Therapy, and EMDR Therapy, with a focus on systemic and trauma-informed perspectives.
Hi! I'm Jessica, a licensed individual, couples, and family therapist based in Austin, Texas. For the past 8 years, I've been dedicated to supporting individuals and their families in crisis across Texas, particularly those in underserved communities who often face significant barriers to mental health care. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and trauma. I believe trauma is stored in the body and revealed in relationships and being strong is exhausting. It's time to stop walking on eggshells, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and heal!
I utilize a combination of treatment approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Collaborative Therapy, and EMDR Therapy, with a focus on systemic and trauma-informed perspectives.
Hi! I'm Jessica, a licensed individual, couples, and family therapist based in Austin, Texas. For the past 8 years, I've been dedicated to supporting individuals and their families in crisis across Texas, particularly those in underserved communities who often face significant barriers to mental health care. I specialize in working with children, teens, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, and trauma. I believe trauma is stored in the body and revealed in relationships and being strong is exhausting. It's time to stop walking on eggshells, push yourself out of your comfort zone, and heal!
(956) 253-2270 View (956) 253-2270
Photo of Vanessa Villarreal, LPC-S, NCC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vanessa Villarreal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78501
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to challenge and change maladaptive cognitive distortions and behaviors which have negatively impacted ones life, and provide tools to improve emotion regulation, and the development of personal coping strategies to effectively problem solve independently. I am also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), which is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences stemming from a variety of stressors, most notably: trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, disturbing memories, and PTSD.
I use Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) to challenge and change maladaptive cognitive distortions and behaviors which have negatively impacted ones life, and provide tools to improve emotion regulation, and the development of personal coping strategies to effectively problem solve independently. I am also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), which is a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the symptoms and emotional distress that are the result of disturbing life experiences stemming from a variety of stressors, most notably: trauma, depression, anxiety, panic, disturbing memories, and PTSD.
(956) 435-7118 View (956) 435-7118
Photo of Cindy Olvera, MEd, LPCA
Cindy Olvera
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate , MEd, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78504  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and ERP.
Have you been struggling with your relationship? Do you stay up late at night wishing things would change? Maybe you experienced a significant life event and are struggling to cope with the aftereffects. You have a desire to heal and connect to those around you but you don't know how. You want to be nurtured and understood. Relationships, trauma, anxiety, and depression can leave us feeling disconnected from the people we love. Let me help you feel connected again. If you are ready, book now by visiting my website.
I am trained in EMDR and ERP.
Have you been struggling with your relationship? Do you stay up late at night wishing things would change? Maybe you experienced a significant life event and are struggling to cope with the aftereffects. You have a desire to heal and connect to those around you but you don't know how. You want to be nurtured and understood. Relationships, trauma, anxiety, and depression can leave us feeling disconnected from the people we love. Let me help you feel connected again. If you are ready, book now by visiting my website.
(737) 260-0811 View (737) 260-0811
Photo of Veronica Gaytan De la Rosa - Get Out of Your Head Therapy Texas, LPC, MS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Get Out of Your Head Therapy Texas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78501  (Online Only)
Veronica is an EMDR trained Clinician who enjoys working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, grief, or immigration issues.
Veronica focuses on creating a healthy environment where clients can feel cared for, pressure-free and understood. Being able to help clients to find a safe place where they can connect with themselves is her passion and motivation. She decided to become a Licensed Professional Counselor when she realized the need for counseling services for minority populations and vulnerable communities. Veronica desires to help people from different backgrounds, cultural and sexual identities, financial situations, and life experiences.
Veronica is an EMDR trained Clinician who enjoys working with adolescents and adults who have experienced trauma, grief, or immigration issues.
Veronica focuses on creating a healthy environment where clients can feel cared for, pressure-free and understood. Being able to help clients to find a safe place where they can connect with themselves is her passion and motivation. She decided to become a Licensed Professional Counselor when she realized the need for counseling services for minority populations and vulnerable communities. Veronica desires to help people from different backgrounds, cultural and sexual identities, financial situations, and life experiences.
(254) 232-5680 View (254) 232-5680
Photo of Clara O Magallanes, M Ed, LPC, NCC, EMDR, CLYL, Licensed Professional Counselor
Clara O Magallanes
Licensed Professional Counselor, M Ed, LPC, NCC, EMDR, CLYL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
I work holistically & integrate EMDR, CBT, SFBT, Play Therapy, art, sound, sand, & other modalities that benefit each client.
Congratulations on taking the first step to feeling better. As a licensed professional counselor in Texas, I’m here to help you take the next step to begin creating a positive change in your life today. My approach is person centered & I work with children, teens, & adults. I use scientifically driven therapies to alleviate complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, anger, grief, sleep, insomnia, relationship issues, self-esteem, social anxiety, school issues, ADHD, parenting, a difficult phase in your life or challenging experiences. Working together, I support & empower clients to discover & develop their full potential.
I work holistically & integrate EMDR, CBT, SFBT, Play Therapy, art, sound, sand, & other modalities that benefit each client.
Congratulations on taking the first step to feeling better. As a licensed professional counselor in Texas, I’m here to help you take the next step to begin creating a positive change in your life today. My approach is person centered & I work with children, teens, & adults. I use scientifically driven therapies to alleviate complex trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, stress, anger, grief, sleep, insomnia, relationship issues, self-esteem, social anxiety, school issues, ADHD, parenting, a difficult phase in your life or challenging experiences. Working together, I support & empower clients to discover & develop their full potential.
(956) 253-1187 View (956) 253-1187
Photo of Mariel Jen. Gonzalez, MEd, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mariel Jen. Gonzalez
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501
Hello there, are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with symptoms such as fears, panic, or uneasiness? Or perhaps you are feeling irritable or experiencing obsessive thoughts that are affecting your mood and causing depression. Seeking professional guidance is the first step to regain confidence. Just imagine yourself enjoying your daily activities without being held back by these struggles , I am a bilingual licensed counselor with experience and expertise to promote healthy lives, fulfill relationships, and build resilience in South Texas.
Hello there, are you feeling overwhelmed by anxiety, struggling with symptoms such as fears, panic, or uneasiness? Or perhaps you are feeling irritable or experiencing obsessive thoughts that are affecting your mood and causing depression. Seeking professional guidance is the first step to regain confidence. Just imagine yourself enjoying your daily activities without being held back by these struggles , I am a bilingual licensed counselor with experience and expertise to promote healthy lives, fulfill relationships, and build resilience in South Texas.
(956) 253-1940 View (956) 253-1940
Photo of Silvia Gutierrez-Leal, LPC-S, CRC, CVE, Licensed Professional Counselor
Silvia Gutierrez-Leal
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, CRC, CVE
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78501
Are you seeking support in the area of career counseling and mental health? If you grapple with issues related to work insecurities, work stress, and depression, I just may be able to help. As an expert in mental health and vocational rehabilitation counseling, I can assist you with addressing your professional future and the impact it has on your well-being. Together we can focus on your career concerns and additional struggles. I can assist you in making an informed career decision, finding a path that aligns with your aspiration and values, and seek strategies to cope with issues that lead to uncertainty and depression.
Are you seeking support in the area of career counseling and mental health? If you grapple with issues related to work insecurities, work stress, and depression, I just may be able to help. As an expert in mental health and vocational rehabilitation counseling, I can assist you with addressing your professional future and the impact it has on your well-being. Together we can focus on your career concerns and additional struggles. I can assist you in making an informed career decision, finding a path that aligns with your aspiration and values, and seek strategies to cope with issues that lead to uncertainty and depression.
(956) 275-3763 View (956) 275-3763
Photo of Cecilia Ramos, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cecilia Ramos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
McAllen, TX 78501  (Online Only)
Navigating intimate relationships can be challenging. Remember that feeling you had when you went out with your crush for the first time? You laughed at each other's jokes, you noticed how much you had in common, and you thought, "this is my person!" While it's wonderful when things are going smoothly, the reality is that the initial shininess eventually fades and challenges are inevitable in every relationship. Including that "perfect couple" you keep comparing yourself to, everyone will encounter disagreements and misunderstandings. Life is imperfect and messy, and we are all doing our best to manage.
Navigating intimate relationships can be challenging. Remember that feeling you had when you went out with your crush for the first time? You laughed at each other's jokes, you noticed how much you had in common, and you thought, "this is my person!" While it's wonderful when things are going smoothly, the reality is that the initial shininess eventually fades and challenges are inevitable in every relationship. Including that "perfect couple" you keep comparing yourself to, everyone will encounter disagreements and misunderstandings. Life is imperfect and messy, and we are all doing our best to manage.
(956) 452-0182 View (956) 452-0182
Photo of Heath Smith, LPC-S, NCC, LCDC, MAC, DOTSAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heath Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, LCDC, MAC, DOTSAP
Verified Verified
McAllen, TX 78504
Sometimes life is hard. At times, the things that seem to work in the past don’t work as well anymore. Counseling is designed to help people overcome hard times by partnering with them to find resolution and wellness. Counseling can improve your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being as well as your relationships with others. You may have specific issues to address or just want to enhance your day-to-day living. I view counseling as a way to enrich your life. Over many years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside countless people as we successfully find solutions to their mental health and addiction issues.
Sometimes life is hard. At times, the things that seem to work in the past don’t work as well anymore. Counseling is designed to help people overcome hard times by partnering with them to find resolution and wellness. Counseling can improve your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being as well as your relationships with others. You may have specific issues to address or just want to enhance your day-to-day living. I view counseling as a way to enrich your life. Over many years of experience, I’ve had the privilege of walking alongside countless people as we successfully find solutions to their mental health and addiction issues.
(956) 625-9579 View (956) 625-9579
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.