EMDR Therapists in Martinsburg, WV

Photo of Melba Natasha Sanchez, MSW, LIMHP, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melba Natasha Sanchez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LIMHP, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401  (Online Only)
She has also completed specialized training in Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Mind-Body Techniques, Acudetox, and Functional Family Therapy.
M. Natasha Sanchez, MSW, LIMHP, LICSW, is a community based therapist providing services to those seeking to improve their relationships with others, change or eliminate troubling behaviors and habits, improve their control over mood and anxiety, perform better at school or work, adjust to difficult life events/transitions, and those who simply wish to gain insight into their personal past in order to welcome a bright and more honest future. Natasha's orientation to counseling is relationship based (collaborative), flexible, respectful and confidential.
She has also completed specialized training in Trauma-Focused CBT, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Mind-Body Techniques, Acudetox, and Functional Family Therapy.
M. Natasha Sanchez, MSW, LIMHP, LICSW, is a community based therapist providing services to those seeking to improve their relationships with others, change or eliminate troubling behaviors and habits, improve their control over mood and anxiety, perform better at school or work, adjust to difficult life events/transitions, and those who simply wish to gain insight into their personal past in order to welcome a bright and more honest future. Natasha's orientation to counseling is relationship based (collaborative), flexible, respectful and confidential.
(402) 307-6101 View (402) 307-6101
Photo of Melissa Swartz - The Renovo Center, LPC, LGSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Renovo Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LGSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Some of the treatment modalities offered by our counselors including neurofeedback, art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, emotional brain training, behavioral, ear acupuncture (using beads and seeds), meditation, body-based mindfulness techniques, trauma-informed, EMDR, and nutrition.
We have openings for clients with Unicare, Aetna Better Health or the The Health Plan between 9 and 2pm. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction or PTSD? Are you looking for "no shame" treatment that is based on how your brain works and changes? We are a group of compassionate counselors who have collaborated together to offer research supported, brain-based, integrative treatment to those who are hurting. Since different parts of the brain are in charge based on stress levels, treatments are most effective when matched with the part of the brain engaged.
Some of the treatment modalities offered by our counselors including neurofeedback, art therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, emotional brain training, behavioral, ear acupuncture (using beads and seeds), meditation, body-based mindfulness techniques, trauma-informed, EMDR, and nutrition.
We have openings for clients with Unicare, Aetna Better Health or the The Health Plan between 9 and 2pm. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, addiction or PTSD? Are you looking for "no shame" treatment that is based on how your brain works and changes? We are a group of compassionate counselors who have collaborated together to offer research supported, brain-based, integrative treatment to those who are hurting. Since different parts of the brain are in charge based on stress levels, treatments are most effective when matched with the part of the brain engaged.
(681) 214-5025 View (681) 214-5025
Photo of Heather Renee Fite, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Renee Fite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25402  (Online Only)
I provide EMDR and acudetox to assist with trauma treatment.
Do you have hope that it can get better? It can! While creating a safe place, therapy can help you learn to practice taking care of yourself. You are important and you deserve to be happy, healthy, and have hope in life. Through empowerment, encouragement, and education we can help to ease some of your burden.
I provide EMDR and acudetox to assist with trauma treatment.
Do you have hope that it can get better? It can! While creating a safe place, therapy can help you learn to practice taking care of yourself. You are important and you deserve to be happy, healthy, and have hope in life. Through empowerment, encouragement, and education we can help to ease some of your burden.
(681) 228-2742 View (681) 228-2742
Photo of Kierra Whitman, LPC, Counselor
Kierra Whitman
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
As a clinician, I am an advocate and skilled provider in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Are you a teenager trying to navigate the overwhelming feelings and thoughts that life brings on? Are you a survivor of sexual assault or domestic violence/ intimate partner abuse? Are there moments when you notice that the traumas from your past are affecting your relationships and everyday livelihood? So often, we ignore our inner hurts and we force ourselves to smile when we want to scream or laugh when we want to cry. Keeping up an act like that can be exhausting, and it can disconnect you from yourself.
As a clinician, I am an advocate and skilled provider in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT).
Are you a teenager trying to navigate the overwhelming feelings and thoughts that life brings on? Are you a survivor of sexual assault or domestic violence/ intimate partner abuse? Are there moments when you notice that the traumas from your past are affecting your relationships and everyday livelihood? So often, we ignore our inner hurts and we force ourselves to smile when we want to scream or laugh when we want to cry. Keeping up an act like that can be exhausting, and it can disconnect you from yourself.
(681) 248-5029 View (681) 248-5029
Photo of Karlee Davis - Begin Counseling, PLLC , LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Begin Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Specializing in EMDR and Trauma Therapy, Begin Counseling diligently pursues effective treatments, expands access to wellness solutions, and strives to reduce the stigma and barriers to facilitate true hope, wholeness, and connection.
Begin Counseling exists to expand trauma-specialized services in our community and surrounding areas. It is a place for individuals, families, and children to connect with a therapist and thrive in their roles and responsibilities. We welcome those in search of a competent, genuine, professional counseling experience. We value those who protect, serve, and care for our community. We understand the unique challenges first responders face at work and at home.
Specializing in EMDR and Trauma Therapy, Begin Counseling diligently pursues effective treatments, expands access to wellness solutions, and strives to reduce the stigma and barriers to facilitate true hope, wholeness, and connection.
Begin Counseling exists to expand trauma-specialized services in our community and surrounding areas. It is a place for individuals, families, and children to connect with a therapist and thrive in their roles and responsibilities. We welcome those in search of a competent, genuine, professional counseling experience. We value those who protect, serve, and care for our community. We understand the unique challenges first responders face at work and at home.
(304) 403-7778 View (304) 403-7778
Photo of Michael Monsma, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michael Monsma
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25405
Time for a new approach? An integrated approach of LENS Neurotherapy, EMDR and "talk" therapy has resulted in rapid improvements for client mood & overall health. LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) "reboots" suppressed areas of the brain impacted by emotional trauma, concussion, illness, toxins/meds... with applications typically lasting seconds to a few minutes. Michael has offered EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapy since 2001, effective for resolving emotional trauma & targeting "stuck" thinking patterns. Changes occur through the "safe space" of the therapeutic relationship & brain-based interventions.
Time for a new approach? An integrated approach of LENS Neurotherapy, EMDR and "talk" therapy has resulted in rapid improvements for client mood & overall health. LENS (Low Energy Neurofeedback System) "reboots" suppressed areas of the brain impacted by emotional trauma, concussion, illness, toxins/meds... with applications typically lasting seconds to a few minutes. Michael has offered EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) therapy since 2001, effective for resolving emotional trauma & targeting "stuck" thinking patterns. Changes occur through the "safe space" of the therapeutic relationship & brain-based interventions.
(304) 986-4488 View (304) 986-4488
Photo of Daniel Speis - Inner Awakening Counseling & Consultation, PLLC, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inner Awakening Counseling & Consultation, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25404
Awaken Hope: we help individuals by addressing some of life's most difficult challenges and experiences. Whether it's recovering from something terrible that has happened to you, dealing with life-crippling anxiety, or struggling because of overwhelming emotions, we can help. Show us the broken parts of you and let us help you awaken your ability to heal.
Awaken Hope: we help individuals by addressing some of life's most difficult challenges and experiences. Whether it's recovering from something terrible that has happened to you, dealing with life-crippling anxiety, or struggling because of overwhelming emotions, we can help. Show us the broken parts of you and let us help you awaken your ability to heal.
(304) 244-0606 View (304) 244-0606
Photo of Kierra Whitman - Hidden Peaces, LPC, LICSW, LGSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hidden Peaces
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LICSW, LGSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
At Hidden Peaces, our focus is to help our community, Heal, Energize, and become more aware of their Inner Strengths. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life. We focus to help individuals work through and/or process the following issues: Traumas, Survivor/Witness of Physical, Sexual, Mental or Emotional Abuse; Anxiety, Depression and Life Transitions.
At Hidden Peaces, our focus is to help our community, Heal, Energize, and become more aware of their Inner Strengths. Our goal is to help you grow from your struggles, heal from your pain, and move forward to where you want to be in your life. We focus to help individuals work through and/or process the following issues: Traumas, Survivor/Witness of Physical, Sexual, Mental or Emotional Abuse; Anxiety, Depression and Life Transitions.
(304) 407-2935 View (304) 407-2935
Photo of Brynn Simmons - Hometown Healing, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hometown Healing
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25403
Hometown Healing is a family owned practice. Brynn and Jesse Simmons established the practice in 2020 to provide the community with a new approach to therapy and overall wellness. We currently have two clinicians, Heather Carr, LGSW and Brynn Simmons, LPC. Hometown Healing offers therapy for all ages. Together we can identify goals to help make changes in your life, or manage hard, overwhelming feelings.
Hometown Healing is a family owned practice. Brynn and Jesse Simmons established the practice in 2020 to provide the community with a new approach to therapy and overall wellness. We currently have two clinicians, Heather Carr, LGSW and Brynn Simmons, LPC. Hometown Healing offers therapy for all ages. Together we can identify goals to help make changes in your life, or manage hard, overwhelming feelings.
(304) 449-3441 View (304) 449-3441
Photo of Leslie A Dieter, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leslie A Dieter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Promise me you'll always remember: you're braver than you believe & stronger than you seem & smarter than you think. Now In-Network with United HealthCare/Optum & WV PEIA.
Promise me you'll always remember: you're braver than you believe & stronger than you seem & smarter than you think. Now In-Network with United HealthCare/Optum & WV PEIA.
(304) 924-4109 View (304) 924-4109
Photo of Kristy-Ann Cook - Carpe Diem Counseling, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carpe Diem Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25403
I am compassionate and nonjudgmental who will offer the support you need to overcome life's difficulties. We are all different in the way we experience and manage life. I have always been interested in the wellness of others and have been blessed to watch many people find recovery. If you are feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, worried or sad, then together we can discover or revisit your healthy options to navigate those feelings. You have taken a step in the right direction to navigate those feelings and to reach out for help. Connection to others allows us to find peace and improved quality of life.
I am compassionate and nonjudgmental who will offer the support you need to overcome life's difficulties. We are all different in the way we experience and manage life. I have always been interested in the wellness of others and have been blessed to watch many people find recovery. If you are feeling discouraged, overwhelmed, worried or sad, then together we can discover or revisit your healthy options to navigate those feelings. You have taken a step in the right direction to navigate those feelings and to reach out for help. Connection to others allows us to find peace and improved quality of life.
(540) 340-5771 View (540) 340-5771
Photo of Dr. Melisa M Carrico, PhD, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Melisa M Carrico
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401  (Online Only)
Are you navigating anxiety, trauma, heightened sensitivity, stress, and/or depression? If you're seeking a holistic approach to therapy you're in the right place. Together, we'll address challenges and stuck places that might be holding you back. Through this process, we'll open the door to deep healing, stress reduction, and creating the transformative change you want in your life. Remember, you're not alone on this path, I will be here to guide you on your path. My approach is personalized and client-centered, focusing on self-discovery and providing solutions. It's all about you.
Are you navigating anxiety, trauma, heightened sensitivity, stress, and/or depression? If you're seeking a holistic approach to therapy you're in the right place. Together, we'll address challenges and stuck places that might be holding you back. Through this process, we'll open the door to deep healing, stress reduction, and creating the transformative change you want in your life. Remember, you're not alone on this path, I will be here to guide you on your path. My approach is personalized and client-centered, focusing on self-discovery and providing solutions. It's all about you.
(304) 318-4881 View (304) 318-4881
Photo of Kathy A Jones, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy A Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Not accepting new clients
Kathy utilizes a variety of treatment modalities to meet the needs of her clients: client-centered therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, solution focused brief therapy, play therapy, sand tray, animal-assisted therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
Kathy Jones earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from West Virginia University. She has over 20 years experience working with children and families as a social worker. Kathy has worked in a variety of therapeutic settings: outpatient, inpatient, and residential treatment, as well as a working with clients ranging from children, adolescents, and adults. She generally treats clients who are seeking to address trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, behavioral issues, life transitions, and/or everyday life challenges.
Kathy utilizes a variety of treatment modalities to meet the needs of her clients: client-centered therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, solution focused brief therapy, play therapy, sand tray, animal-assisted therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
Kathy Jones earned her Master’s degree in Social Work from West Virginia University. She has over 20 years experience working with children and families as a social worker. Kathy has worked in a variety of therapeutic settings: outpatient, inpatient, and residential treatment, as well as a working with clients ranging from children, adolescents, and adults. She generally treats clients who are seeking to address trauma, depression, anxiety, self-esteem, behavioral issues, life transitions, and/or everyday life challenges.
(681) 539-5292 View (681) 539-5292
Photo of Jules Roxanne Webb, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jules Roxanne Webb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Not accepting new clients
While I have training and experience in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and expressive arts, I believe that the most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between therapist and client.
I enjoy working with adults, teens, people who have experienced trauma, LGBTQIA+ and gender-diverse people, artists, and those who seek a perspective of body-liberation. I believe that everyone deserves a safe and compassionate space to explore their unique experiences, stories, and challenges. I seek to understand the complex intersections of identity and how they impact mental health and well-being. My goal is to help clients develop the tools they need to heal, grow, and thrive. If you're looking for a therapist who is affirming, non-judgmental, and dedicated to helping you achieve your goals, I would be honored to work with you.
While I have training and experience in EMDR, IFS, DBT, and expressive arts, I believe that the most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between therapist and client.
I enjoy working with adults, teens, people who have experienced trauma, LGBTQIA+ and gender-diverse people, artists, and those who seek a perspective of body-liberation. I believe that everyone deserves a safe and compassionate space to explore their unique experiences, stories, and challenges. I seek to understand the complex intersections of identity and how they impact mental health and well-being. My goal is to help clients develop the tools they need to heal, grow, and thrive. If you're looking for a therapist who is affirming, non-judgmental, and dedicated to helping you achieve your goals, I would be honored to work with you.
(240) 384-5389 View (240) 384-5389
Photo of April D. Lehman, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
April D. Lehman
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Not accepting new clients
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in work with adolescents and adults with mental health and substance use disorders. I provide compassionate, no shame treatment for individuals with co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, and addiction.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor specializing in work with adolescents and adults with mental health and substance use disorders. I provide compassionate, no shame treatment for individuals with co-occurring disorders, anxiety, depression, bipolar disorder, trauma, and addiction.
(304) 898-8368 View (304) 898-8368
Photo of Starling Hathcock, LCSW-C, CCTP-ll, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Starling Hathcock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CCTP-ll
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Martinsburg, WV 25401
Not accepting new clients
Has the state of the world left you fucking exhausted? Do you drag yourself through your day fakin’ it ‘til ya makin’ it? Do you spend more of your free time than you'd like doom scrolling to Matt Matthew’s chicken banter cause throat punchin’ a bitch will catch you a charge or Tatum My Dude’s take on “punch up” on repeat and wishing your life away? Can you relate to Olivia Benson while she was assaulted by William Lewis and the hell that followed? If this is the shit you are struggling with, let’s connect.
Has the state of the world left you fucking exhausted? Do you drag yourself through your day fakin’ it ‘til ya makin’ it? Do you spend more of your free time than you'd like doom scrolling to Matt Matthew’s chicken banter cause throat punchin’ a bitch will catch you a charge or Tatum My Dude’s take on “punch up” on repeat and wishing your life away? Can you relate to Olivia Benson while she was assaulted by William Lewis and the hell that followed? If this is the shit you are struggling with, let’s connect.
(240) 219-5583 View (240) 219-5583

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jenny Bailey, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenny Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
Waitlist for new clients
Trained in: EMDR, Flash Technique, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Gottman, Sand Tray, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Serving adults, 18 years and up. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor, graduate of Liberty University, holding a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I use an integrative approach to counseling based on the unique needs of each client. Recognizing the strengths and resources one already has as well as the potential for change within the human spirit, I view individuals through a lens of positivity that guides the therapeutic experience. My professional experience includes culturally inclusive work with teens and adults. I also work with couples to improve communication, rebuild trust, and increase emotional connection.
Trained in: EMDR, Flash Technique, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Family Systems Theory, Gottman, Sand Tray, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Serving adults, 18 years and up. I am a Nationally Certified Counselor, graduate of Liberty University, holding a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I use an integrative approach to counseling based on the unique needs of each client. Recognizing the strengths and resources one already has as well as the potential for change within the human spirit, I view individuals through a lens of positivity that guides the therapeutic experience. My professional experience includes culturally inclusive work with teens and adults. I also work with couples to improve communication, rebuild trust, and increase emotional connection.
(304) 205-1979 View (304) 205-1979
Photo of Sabrina W. Adams - Sabrina Adams, LICSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sabrina Adams, LICSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
I use various techniques (EMDR, relaxation, role-play) to learn your nature, needs and goals.
Most people are Inherently "good," try to act this way, and don't know why this does not result in success, happiness. We will work to learn what interferes: Learning, health, life-stages, guilt, genetics, self-sabotage, traumas. You will make changes to free yourself from the past, so that future choices DO result in success, joy, peace. Since toddlers, we seek to be accepted, be useful; aware of this, you can meet your goals. Seeking help is bravely taking a risk, understandably causing many to be anxious at the 1st session. We'll work at YOUR pace. FOR FAST REPLY: swadams200[AT].com.
I use various techniques (EMDR, relaxation, role-play) to learn your nature, needs and goals.
Most people are Inherently "good," try to act this way, and don't know why this does not result in success, happiness. We will work to learn what interferes: Learning, health, life-stages, guilt, genetics, self-sabotage, traumas. You will make changes to free yourself from the past, so that future choices DO result in success, joy, peace. Since toddlers, we seek to be accepted, be useful; aware of this, you can meet your goals. Seeking help is bravely taking a risk, understandably causing many to be anxious at the 1st session. We'll work at YOUR pace. FOR FAST REPLY: swadams200[AT].com.
(304) 409-8400 View (304) 409-8400
Photo of Christal Hanson, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christal Hanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained and competent in a variety of therapeutic approaches; however I do consider myself an EMDR therapist.
My therapy practice is grounded in the strong belief that each individual possesses a deep capacity for wisdom, growth and healing. My role as therapist is to provide my clients with a safe, nonjudgmental and highly effective environment where they can navigate life challenges, heal from painful experiences and enjoy tremendous personal growth.
I am trained and competent in a variety of therapeutic approaches; however I do consider myself an EMDR therapist.
My therapy practice is grounded in the strong belief that each individual possesses a deep capacity for wisdom, growth and healing. My role as therapist is to provide my clients with a safe, nonjudgmental and highly effective environment where they can navigate life challenges, heal from painful experiences and enjoy tremendous personal growth.
View
Photo of Sue Ann DeVall, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sue Ann DeVall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Shepherdstown, WV 25443
I am trained in EMDR, schema therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques.
My goal as a therapist is to help clients who are having difficulty in our fast-paced environment dealing with life’s stressors related to marriages/partnerships, families, friendships, social isolation, employment and finances. I provide a safe place where clients know they can share in a confidential environment without judgment. All of us have negative thoughts. Realizing that we are more than our thoughts, though, can be truly liberating and allow a person to live a full and meaningful life, even when faced with struggles that may seem impossible to overcome.
I am trained in EMDR, schema therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and mindfulness techniques.
My goal as a therapist is to help clients who are having difficulty in our fast-paced environment dealing with life’s stressors related to marriages/partnerships, families, friendships, social isolation, employment and finances. I provide a safe place where clients know they can share in a confidential environment without judgment. All of us have negative thoughts. Realizing that we are more than our thoughts, though, can be truly liberating and allow a person to live a full and meaningful life, even when faced with struggles that may seem impossible to overcome.
(304) 876-3500 View (304) 876-3500

Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Martinsburg

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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.