EMDR Therapists in Christiansburg, VA

Photo of Melissa Futreal, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Futreal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
I have training and experience in treating PTSD with effective modalities such as CPT, PET, and EMDR.
I began helping others in 1990 as a Peer Counselor (Drug Exemption NCO) while on active duty in the Marine Corps. After earning degrees in Psychology and Social Work at UNCW/ECU, I obtained licensure to practice independently with the Virginia Board of Health Professionals in 2004. I am originally from the Hampton Roads area but have worked internationally with people from many different backgrounds. I have continued to support the military, as well as the community at large, for over 3 decades with evidence-based treatments for trauma (PTSD).
I have training and experience in treating PTSD with effective modalities such as CPT, PET, and EMDR.
I began helping others in 1990 as a Peer Counselor (Drug Exemption NCO) while on active duty in the Marine Corps. After earning degrees in Psychology and Social Work at UNCW/ECU, I obtained licensure to practice independently with the Virginia Board of Health Professionals in 2004. I am originally from the Hampton Roads area but have worked internationally with people from many different backgrounds. I have continued to support the military, as well as the community at large, for over 3 decades with evidence-based treatments for trauma (PTSD).
(571) 322-8908 View (571) 322-8908
Photo of Andrew G. Burns, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew G. Burns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
I have a special interest in helping people overcome anxiety and trauma, as well as depression, manage adjustment to life difficulties, deal with substance recovery, and seek personal growth. My view of those I serve is based on an understanding of each individual as a whole person, which goes beyond their challenges. I have a Person-Centered philosophy, with use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
I have a special interest in helping people overcome anxiety and trauma, as well as depression, manage adjustment to life difficulties, deal with substance recovery, and seek personal growth. My view of those I serve is based on an understanding of each individual as a whole person, which goes beyond their challenges. I have a Person-Centered philosophy, with use of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
(540) 381-6215 x310 View (540) 381-6215 x310
Photo of Season Childress, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Season Childress
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
Taking new clients for neurofeedback only. If you are interested in pursuing EMDR in 2025, I am happy to put you on my waiting list. If you are wanting more immediate or long term therapy, I can refer you to another practitioner in my practice. Have you had a traumatic incident(s) and still experiencing the symptoms? Are loss of sleep, unexplainable emotions, low self esteem, poor concentration or panic keeping you from enjoying your life? You may be working with a therapist and feel that your brain will just not allow you to implement the strategies. Trauma wires the brain, neurofeedback and EMDR rewire it.
Taking new clients for neurofeedback only. If you are interested in pursuing EMDR in 2025, I am happy to put you on my waiting list. If you are wanting more immediate or long term therapy, I can refer you to another practitioner in my practice. Have you had a traumatic incident(s) and still experiencing the symptoms? Are loss of sleep, unexplainable emotions, low self esteem, poor concentration or panic keeping you from enjoying your life? You may be working with a therapist and feel that your brain will just not allow you to implement the strategies. Trauma wires the brain, neurofeedback and EMDR rewire it.
(540) 328-9526 View (540) 328-9526
Photo of Jessie McGlothlin, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessie McGlothlin
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073
I have worked in the mental health field since 2013, and am trained in EMDR.
My passion is working with individuals who are ready and willing to make changes in their lives. I am here to provide a safe place to process difficulties and challenges they may be facing and to help build skills to help overcome those things. I have also worked with many clients in processing trauma. My therapeutic approach is person centered and is focused on the individual’s strengths and needs.
I have worked in the mental health field since 2013, and am trained in EMDR.
My passion is working with individuals who are ready and willing to make changes in their lives. I am here to provide a safe place to process difficulties and challenges they may be facing and to help build skills to help overcome those things. I have also worked with many clients in processing trauma. My therapeutic approach is person centered and is focused on the individual’s strengths and needs.
(540) 215-7438 View (540) 215-7438
Donna Wagner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
Waitlist for new clients
Donna is also EMDR trained.
Donna believes in increasing personal strengths and resilience through a person-centered and creative approach to therapy. She is passionate about helping clients achieve their desired therapy goals. Donna is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She graduated with a degree in Counselor Education from Radford University in 2011. Donna has over 10 years of experience providing counseling to children, adolescents and their families. She has a background in outpatient counseling and crisis counseling services.
Donna is also EMDR trained.
Donna believes in increasing personal strengths and resilience through a person-centered and creative approach to therapy. She is passionate about helping clients achieve their desired therapy goals. Donna is a Licensed Professional Counselor. She graduated with a degree in Counselor Education from Radford University in 2011. Donna has over 10 years of experience providing counseling to children, adolescents and their families. She has a background in outpatient counseling and crisis counseling services.
(540) 680-3015 View (540) 680-3015
Photo of Jessica Overturf, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Overturf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073  (Online Only)
My training includes mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, CBT for anxiety, EMDR, and trauma-informed techniques.
I enjoy working with clients aged 16 and above. My approach is inclusive and client-centered, ensuring that each individual receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs. If you are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, or trauma, I would be honored to provide guidance and support on your journey of personal growth and well-being.
My training includes mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, CBT for anxiety, EMDR, and trauma-informed techniques.
I enjoy working with clients aged 16 and above. My approach is inclusive and client-centered, ensuring that each individual receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs. If you are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, or trauma, I would be honored to provide guidance and support on your journey of personal growth and well-being.
(757) 982-2931 View (757) 982-2931
Photo of Amber Jean Eversole - Amber Eversole, LPC, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Eversole, LPC, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073
I use EMDR therapy to help people work through their hardest experiences so they are able to live more rewarding lives.
I am honored to be able to work with individuals and couples and to be a part of their journey towards living a better life. I believe that everyone is doing the best they can and they are also able to do better given new perspectives and skills. I have experience working with young adults, adults, and couples. I believe it is difficult for many to take the first step and reach out for help. I strive to provide a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment in which you feel comfortable to discuss your story and to build an effective therapeutic relationship.
I use EMDR therapy to help people work through their hardest experiences so they are able to live more rewarding lives.
I am honored to be able to work with individuals and couples and to be a part of their journey towards living a better life. I believe that everyone is doing the best they can and they are also able to do better given new perspectives and skills. I have experience working with young adults, adults, and couples. I believe it is difficult for many to take the first step and reach out for help. I strive to provide a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment in which you feel comfortable to discuss your story and to build an effective therapeutic relationship.
(980) 222-0104 View (980) 222-0104
Photo of Elizabeth Fariello, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Fariello
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
I approach therapy as an opportunity to really explore what is involved with women's anxiety and using techniques such as EMDR and hypnosis that can get to the root of how you feel.
Are you a woman struggling with anxiety? Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with everyday life? If so, I get it. Anxiety, and all of its related issues, can be paralyzing. And it can manifest in many forms. For women, we struggle with so many things: comparing ourselves to others, an unhealthy focus on our bodies, striving for perfection(even when we don't expect it in others), and just plain old burn out when it all becomes too much. Alot of us also struggle with past experiences that may have left deep wounds. It can be overwhelming!
I approach therapy as an opportunity to really explore what is involved with women's anxiety and using techniques such as EMDR and hypnosis that can get to the root of how you feel.
Are you a woman struggling with anxiety? Do you find yourself having a difficult time coping with everyday life? If so, I get it. Anxiety, and all of its related issues, can be paralyzing. And it can manifest in many forms. For women, we struggle with so many things: comparing ourselves to others, an unhealthy focus on our bodies, striving for perfection(even when we don't expect it in others), and just plain old burn out when it all becomes too much. Alot of us also struggle with past experiences that may have left deep wounds. It can be overwhelming!
(540) 695-0250 View (540) 695-0250
Photo of Heide Burch, PhD, LMHC, BC-TMH, Counselor
Heide Burch
Counselor, PhD, LMHC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24068  (Online Only)
I am also a trained EMDR provider (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
Dr. Burch has a wait list for new clients. I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in NY, ME, and VA providing virtual sessions. I work with clients of all ages. I have experience treating numerous presenting problems including anxiety, depression, learning issues, trauma/PTSD, socialization, communication, family struggles, and life changes. Using the strength of each client, I work with you to accomplish your goals and improve your life and functioning. I provide individual, family, and couple's counseling, and participate with most major insurance companies. I am also a board certified telemental health provider (BC-TMH).
I am also a trained EMDR provider (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
Dr. Burch has a wait list for new clients. I am a licensed mental health counselor (LMHC) in NY, ME, and VA providing virtual sessions. I work with clients of all ages. I have experience treating numerous presenting problems including anxiety, depression, learning issues, trauma/PTSD, socialization, communication, family struggles, and life changes. Using the strength of each client, I work with you to accomplish your goals and improve your life and functioning. I provide individual, family, and couple's counseling, and participate with most major insurance companies. I am also a board certified telemental health provider (BC-TMH).
(540) 264-3008 View (540) 264-3008
Photo of Thomas Bufano, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas Bufano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
In addition, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and have personally found this therapy to be life-changing to reprocess traumatic events.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious, irritable, or disillusioned? Life can be challenging, confusing, and painful, but it can also be full of meaning, satisfaction, and joy. My belief is that our deepest emotional wounds can also lead to our greatest inner growth: “Life doesn’t happen to us, it happens for us.” Whether you need support with a strained relationship, trauma, physical pain, self-esteem, divorce, illness, personal loss, or are suffering but unsure of how to cope, I will be honored to accompany you on your personal journey and will strive to develop a relaxed atmosphere of mutual trust.
In addition, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) and have personally found this therapy to be life-changing to reprocess traumatic events.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious, irritable, or disillusioned? Life can be challenging, confusing, and painful, but it can also be full of meaning, satisfaction, and joy. My belief is that our deepest emotional wounds can also lead to our greatest inner growth: “Life doesn’t happen to us, it happens for us.” Whether you need support with a strained relationship, trauma, physical pain, self-esteem, divorce, illness, personal loss, or are suffering but unsure of how to cope, I will be honored to accompany you on your personal journey and will strive to develop a relaxed atmosphere of mutual trust.
(540) 701-4404 View (540) 701-4404
Photo of Rosana Lopez Haugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosana Lopez Haugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
I work in the expressive arts and EMDR and am working towards certification in both.
I received my Masters in Social Work, Planning, and Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University have over 20 years of experience in the field of social work, advocating and serving people with disabilities in their community. I have extensive experience working with children and adults assisting them in both English and Spanish.
I work in the expressive arts and EMDR and am working towards certification in both.
I received my Masters in Social Work, Planning, and Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University have over 20 years of experience in the field of social work, advocating and serving people with disabilities in their community. I have extensive experience working with children and adults assisting them in both English and Spanish.
(804) 538-4681 View (804) 538-4681
Photo of Katie Noel Sherwood, MSW
Katie Noel Sherwood
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073
I use a combination of different therapy modalities such as Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), as well as EMDR.
Life can be overwhelming at times and sometimes you are in need of extra support, guidance and a safe space along the way. My hope is to walk alongside you in your journey and help you reach the goals you want for yourself and your life and provide a safe space for healing and growth. I have spent years developing my skills and knowledge by working with adults, adolescents and children who have experienced trauma and family issues. I have experience in working with individuals who have struggled with couple issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual exploitation, grief and loss. I am currently seeing clients aged 14+.
I use a combination of different therapy modalities such as Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), as well as EMDR.
Life can be overwhelming at times and sometimes you are in need of extra support, guidance and a safe space along the way. My hope is to walk alongside you in your journey and help you reach the goals you want for yourself and your life and provide a safe space for healing and growth. I have spent years developing my skills and knowledge by working with adults, adolescents and children who have experienced trauma and family issues. I have experience in working with individuals who have struggled with couple issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual exploitation, grief and loss. I am currently seeing clients aged 14+.
(540) 596-5670 View (540) 596-5670
Photo of Scarlett Williams - 9.5 times faster than EMDR, Scarlett Williams , Licensed Professional Counselor
9.5 times faster than EMDR, Scarlett Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24073
Welcome. I am so excited to offer my innovative version of EMDR which is 86% faster than Standard EMDR protocol while reducing symptoms for my clients by 82-84% with p< .001. Translated, this means that my version, Target 2 Zero, works extremely well. Adverse experiences or the tough stuff of life cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder ect. By thinking back through the memory of the adverse or bothersome event and doing a few other things at the same time the memory changes. It decreases in intensity and goes from 1st to third person.
Welcome. I am so excited to offer my innovative version of EMDR which is 86% faster than Standard EMDR protocol while reducing symptoms for my clients by 82-84% with p< .001. Translated, this means that my version, Target 2 Zero, works extremely well. Adverse experiences or the tough stuff of life cause a variety of uncomfortable symptoms including anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder ect. By thinking back through the memory of the adverse or bothersome event and doing a few other things at the same time the memory changes. It decreases in intensity and goes from 1st to third person.
(540) 253-1425 View (540) 253-1425
Photo of Arielle Pollack, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Arielle Pollack
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome to a safe space where your journey to healing begins. I am Arielle (she/her) and I am dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered, and identity-affirming care. I aim to create a nonjudgmental space where you can freely express your unfiltered thoughts and feelings. In my practice, I recognize you as the expert in your own life and experiences. Think of me as a co-traveler in your journey, offering support and guidance as you navigate the path to healing. My areas of expertise include working with anxiety, mood disorders, LGBT issues, interpersonal difficulties, substance abuse, and serious mental illnesses.
Welcome to a safe space where your journey to healing begins. I am Arielle (she/her) and I am dedicated to providing compassionate, client-centered, and identity-affirming care. I aim to create a nonjudgmental space where you can freely express your unfiltered thoughts and feelings. In my practice, I recognize you as the expert in your own life and experiences. Think of me as a co-traveler in your journey, offering support and guidance as you navigate the path to healing. My areas of expertise include working with anxiety, mood disorders, LGBT issues, interpersonal difficulties, substance abuse, and serious mental illnesses.
(540) 755-3461 View (540) 755-3461
Photo of Taylor - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(540) 516-3985 View (540) 516-3985
Photo of Joshua Hartle - Light Counseling, Licensed Professional Counselor
Light Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
At Light Counseling, our team of professionally trained and compassionate clinicians are here to help you overcome life’s challenges with evidence-based practices and a distinctly Christian approach. Our professionals specialize in helping with many of the following issues: ADD/ADHD, Adolescence Adjustments, Alcohol Abuse and Addictions, Anger Management, Anxiety, Attachment Disorders, Child Abuse/Victim Support, Childhood Behavioral Problems, Compulsions, Depression, Drug Abuse and Addiction, Family Issues, Grief and Loss, Infidelity, Marital Stress, Men’s Issues, Obsession, Panic Attacks, Parenting and Step-Parenting Concerns, Phobias, Pornography, Post Traumatic Stress Issues, and more.
At Light Counseling, our team of professionally trained and compassionate clinicians are here to help you overcome life’s challenges with evidence-based practices and a distinctly Christian approach. Our professionals specialize in helping with many of the following issues: ADD/ADHD, Adolescence Adjustments, Alcohol Abuse and Addictions, Anger Management, Anxiety, Attachment Disorders, Child Abuse/Victim Support, Childhood Behavioral Problems, Compulsions, Depression, Drug Abuse and Addiction, Family Issues, Grief and Loss, Infidelity, Marital Stress, Men’s Issues, Obsession, Panic Attacks, Parenting and Step-Parenting Concerns, Phobias, Pornography, Post Traumatic Stress Issues, and more.
(434) 425-7702 View (434) 425-7702
Photo of Anne “Chari” Oliver - Brave Within Counseling LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brave Within Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073  (Online Only)
Bring me your secrets, your scars, your shame your broken dreams, your broken heart, your broken life. Tell me about your fear, your frustration, your failures. I see your depression, your despair, your damaged hope. I am a safe place to bring it all, lay it down, rest, process and heal. I see you and I want to hear your story. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been in the mental health field since 2015, working with all communities and diagnoses in assessing their needs, setting goals for their treatment, and seeking improvement in their quality of daily life.
Bring me your secrets, your scars, your shame your broken dreams, your broken heart, your broken life. Tell me about your fear, your frustration, your failures. I see your depression, your despair, your damaged hope. I am a safe place to bring it all, lay it down, rest, process and heal. I see you and I want to hear your story. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and have been in the mental health field since 2015, working with all communities and diagnoses in assessing their needs, setting goals for their treatment, and seeking improvement in their quality of daily life.
(844) 502-7283 View (844) 502-7283
Photo of Rhoda E Hurst, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhoda E Hurst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
My ideal client will allow me to help him or her to grow and to heal. This requires the client to believe in the possibility of trust, hope, and change. The ideal client is honest and willing to take some risk. Just coming to a counselor is a big risk!
My ideal client will allow me to help him or her to grow and to heal. This requires the client to believe in the possibility of trust, hope, and change. The ideal client is honest and willing to take some risk. Just coming to a counselor is a big risk!
(540) 822-0914 View (540) 822-0914
Photo of Kelsey Blankenship - Blue Mountain Counseling, LPC, QDDP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Blue Mountain Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, QDDP
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073
The hardest mountain to climb is the one within, what does your mountain look like? Each person's healing journey to the top of their mountain, no matter how small or fraught with twists and turns, is important and deserves a safe, authentic space to be heard. Healing is not a linear process. It takes commitment, honesty, motivation, and oftentimes tough work to face one's reality versus where they want to be. Healing also takes a supportive and empathetic shoulder to help carry the burden as you reach your goals. I would be honored to help you discover your confidence, values, truths, and ultimately, summit your mountain.
The hardest mountain to climb is the one within, what does your mountain look like? Each person's healing journey to the top of their mountain, no matter how small or fraught with twists and turns, is important and deserves a safe, authentic space to be heard. Healing is not a linear process. It takes commitment, honesty, motivation, and oftentimes tough work to face one's reality versus where they want to be. Healing also takes a supportive and empathetic shoulder to help carry the burden as you reach your goals. I would be honored to help you discover your confidence, values, truths, and ultimately, summit your mountain.
(540) 501-6468 View (540) 501-6468
Photo of Bradford Stucki, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bradford Stucki
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Christiansburg, VA 24068  (Online Only)
Accepting individual clients for online therapy. Do you catch yourself in never-ending thought loops that criticize your decisions or past mistakes–wondering if you’ll ever be enough? Have you found yourself thinking that others don't understand you? If so, you're not alone. Sometimes the past has a way of sticking in our brains and it is hard to let go. It may be time to get more support. I would love to see how I can help. When you work with me, you can expect to feel safe, understood, hopeful, and empowered. You can also expect to learn strategies to help you progress toward your relationship and mental wellness goals.
Accepting individual clients for online therapy. Do you catch yourself in never-ending thought loops that criticize your decisions or past mistakes–wondering if you’ll ever be enough? Have you found yourself thinking that others don't understand you? If so, you're not alone. Sometimes the past has a way of sticking in our brains and it is hard to let go. It may be time to get more support. I would love to see how I can help. When you work with me, you can expect to feel safe, understood, hopeful, and empowered. You can also expect to learn strategies to help you progress toward your relationship and mental wellness goals.
(540) 600-4655 View (540) 600-4655
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EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.