EMDR Therapists in Green Cove Springs, FL

Photo of Kristina Stewart, MA, LMHC, GC-C, Counselor
Kristina Stewart
Counselor, MA, LMHC, GC-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
I am trained in EMDR and Imago relationship therapy.
It has been said that real change does not occur until what you are doing no longer serves you. Do you long to feel emotionally safe in your relationships? Tired of having the same argument with your partner/spouse and wish things could be different and feel like giving up? Would you like to learn how to improve communication in all your relationships and how to deepen your connection with them? Do you feel overwhelmed, disrespected, or invalidated in arguments? Would you like help processing traumatic experience?
I am trained in EMDR and Imago relationship therapy.
It has been said that real change does not occur until what you are doing no longer serves you. Do you long to feel emotionally safe in your relationships? Tired of having the same argument with your partner/spouse and wish things could be different and feel like giving up? Would you like to learn how to improve communication in all your relationships and how to deepen your connection with them? Do you feel overwhelmed, disrespected, or invalidated in arguments? Would you like help processing traumatic experience?
(904) 780-9720 View (904) 780-9720
Photo of Jeannie L Mitchell, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Jeannie L Mitchell
Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
EMDR is one approach to overcoming stressful events, but it's not the only one.
Jeannie Mitchell works in a therapeutic setting, helping individuals overcome the effects of trauma, anxiety & depression. She is non-judgmental and caring in her approach and will individually tailor counseling strategies to meet your needs, diagnosis, and preferences. She has advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidenced-based treatment for those with past trauma or PTSD. Jeannie is a veteran with a unique perspective to help veterans, military members, and their families work through military life issues.
EMDR is one approach to overcoming stressful events, but it's not the only one.
Jeannie Mitchell works in a therapeutic setting, helping individuals overcome the effects of trauma, anxiety & depression. She is non-judgmental and caring in her approach and will individually tailor counseling strategies to meet your needs, diagnosis, and preferences. She has advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), an evidenced-based treatment for those with past trauma or PTSD. Jeannie is a veteran with a unique perspective to help veterans, military members, and their families work through military life issues.
(904) 844-0742 View (904) 844-0742
Photo of Danielle Pond, MA, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Danielle Pond
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
Danielle is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern (IMT4023) working towards full licensure and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and the Gottman Method as well as other systemic models. Danielle is passionate about helping military families and first responders and can relate to many of the trials and tribulations of being a military family who are often under pressure and on the move. Danielle also enjoys working with the LGBTQ community and couples of all backgrounds. She also treats eating disorders utilizing EMDR and/or Family-Based Treatment.
Danielle is a Registered Marriage and Family Therapist Intern (IMT4023) working towards full licensure and is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and the Gottman Method as well as other systemic models. Danielle is passionate about helping military families and first responders and can relate to many of the trials and tribulations of being a military family who are often under pressure and on the move. Danielle also enjoys working with the LGBTQ community and couples of all backgrounds. She also treats eating disorders utilizing EMDR and/or Family-Based Treatment.
(904) 375-2353 View (904) 375-2353
Photo of Cheryl Walker, MS, LMHC, QS
Cheryl Walker
MS, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043  (Online Only)
Do you have thoughts of feeling not good enough? Are you feeling invalidated, misunderstood, gaslit, anxious, depressed, isolated, unloved, struggling to connect in a relationship? I approach therapy with the intent of meeting the client where there are in their journey. What are your struggles? What are your goals? It's not my place to tell you what you "should" feel or do. It is my passion to help you work toward self-understanding, self-compassion and to advocate for yourself without guilt or shame.
Do you have thoughts of feeling not good enough? Are you feeling invalidated, misunderstood, gaslit, anxious, depressed, isolated, unloved, struggling to connect in a relationship? I approach therapy with the intent of meeting the client where there are in their journey. What are your struggles? What are your goals? It's not my place to tell you what you "should" feel or do. It is my passion to help you work toward self-understanding, self-compassion and to advocate for yourself without guilt or shame.
(904) 320-0272 View (904) 320-0272
Psychological Renovations, LLC
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
I do not engage in telehealth with new clients...I am well acquainted with the difficulties that we encounter in life and how they can derail us. There are many life transitions that can bring about obstacles and dilemmas. The general day to day complications that we encounter as we mature, age, and walk the journey that is life can sometimes seem overwhelming. There is adjusting to, and leaving, school, family, relationships, jobs, and geographic areas. Trauma, illness, loss, and grief are also transition points that interfere with our functioning. Assistance at these times in our lives can be invaluable.
I do not engage in telehealth with new clients...I am well acquainted with the difficulties that we encounter in life and how they can derail us. There are many life transitions that can bring about obstacles and dilemmas. The general day to day complications that we encounter as we mature, age, and walk the journey that is life can sometimes seem overwhelming. There is adjusting to, and leaving, school, family, relationships, jobs, and geographic areas. Trauma, illness, loss, and grief are also transition points that interfere with our functioning. Assistance at these times in our lives can be invaluable.
(904) 549-6481 View (904) 549-6481
Photo of Pamela J Lewis, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor
Pamela J Lewis
Counselor, MA, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
My approach to therapy involves creating an objective, caring environment that helps individuals and families explore their problems and aid them in finding solutions with which they can live.
My approach to therapy involves creating an objective, caring environment that helps individuals and families explore their problems and aid them in finding solutions with which they can live.
(904) 335-8906 View (904) 335-8906
Photo of Lauren Parrish, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Lauren Parrish
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043
Our goals and ambitions in life are forever changing. As values and priorities shift over time, what used to meet our needs, may no longer work for us in the here and now. In order to embrace personal growth, learning to first accept ourselves, just as we are, is key. For many, this can sound like the exact opposite of what change is all about, especially if we feel stuck, unfulfilled, embarrassed, or ashamed. If you feel like something is holding you back from living life as you envision it, therapy can be an empowering next step.
Our goals and ambitions in life are forever changing. As values and priorities shift over time, what used to meet our needs, may no longer work for us in the here and now. In order to embrace personal growth, learning to first accept ourselves, just as we are, is key. For many, this can sound like the exact opposite of what change is all about, especially if we feel stuck, unfulfilled, embarrassed, or ashamed. If you feel like something is holding you back from living life as you envision it, therapy can be an empowering next step.
(904) 265-9139 View (904) 265-9139
Photo of Franca A Gaudio Lcsw, LCSW, MSW, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Franca A Gaudio Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CTP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Green Cove Springs, FL 32043  (Online Only)
I am experienced in working with addictions, veterans, LGBTQ, and couples in diverse populations. I specialize in life changes, relationship issues, women's issues, self esteem issues, and substance abuse. I also specialize in working with individuals and their families struggling with addiction, as this is a family disease. Recently I worked with clients with anxiety, mental health challenges, addictions, depression, trauma, and veterans with addictions and PTSD.
I am experienced in working with addictions, veterans, LGBTQ, and couples in diverse populations. I specialize in life changes, relationship issues, women's issues, self esteem issues, and substance abuse. I also specialize in working with individuals and their families struggling with addiction, as this is a family disease. Recently I worked with clients with anxiety, mental health challenges, addictions, depression, trauma, and veterans with addictions and PTSD.
(904) 395-4551 View (904) 395-4551

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of David Martin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Martin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Middleburg, FL 32050  (Online Only)
I offer individual, couples, family therapy, and EMDR.
Life can be challenging....these are unsettling times. It is difficult, to say the least, to manage family stress and connection. Are you struggling to manage your family relationships, with your spouse or domestic partner, children, and other family members? Are your children struggling in school and managing family and social life? Are there additional challenges? ADHD, Autism, or developmental disability?....Have you ever said to yourself, "why me?" or "I wish they would just stop. As a parent, have you ever asked, "what's going to happen to my kid?" Have you ever struggled with trauma or substance abuse, if so, I can help.
I offer individual, couples, family therapy, and EMDR.
Life can be challenging....these are unsettling times. It is difficult, to say the least, to manage family stress and connection. Are you struggling to manage your family relationships, with your spouse or domestic partner, children, and other family members? Are your children struggling in school and managing family and social life? Are there additional challenges? ADHD, Autism, or developmental disability?....Have you ever said to yourself, "why me?" or "I wish they would just stop. As a parent, have you ever asked, "what's going to happen to my kid?" Have you ever struggled with trauma or substance abuse, if so, I can help.
(407) 634-2251 View (407) 634-2251
Photo of Amanda Leann Hannah - River's Edge Counseling, PLLC, LMHC, LCSW, LMFT, Counselor
River's Edge Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LMHC, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Orange Park, FL 32065
We have multiple clinicians that are trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
"Life is like the river, sometimes it sweeps you gently along and sometimes the rapids come out of nowhere."--Emma Smith. At River's Edge Counseling, we strive to help you navigate the difficult circumstances that come with life. There is hope and purpose for you, regardless of your background, and we believe that work and collaboration will help you uncover what is preventing you from living out your purpose with joy and fulfillment. We specialize in working with individuals who have endured traumatic events, and suffer from symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress and related issues. IMMEDIATE APPTS MAY BE AVAILABLE
We have multiple clinicians that are trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness and Cognitive Processing Therapy.
"Life is like the river, sometimes it sweeps you gently along and sometimes the rapids come out of nowhere."--Emma Smith. At River's Edge Counseling, we strive to help you navigate the difficult circumstances that come with life. There is hope and purpose for you, regardless of your background, and we believe that work and collaboration will help you uncover what is preventing you from living out your purpose with joy and fulfillment. We specialize in working with individuals who have endured traumatic events, and suffer from symptoms of Post-Traumatic Stress and related issues. IMMEDIATE APPTS MAY BE AVAILABLE
(904) 637-8436 View (904) 637-8436
Photo of Taylor Johnston, MSW, LCSW, QS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taylor Johnston
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, QS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Orange Park, FL 32065
As a certified EMDR therapist through the esteemed organization of EMDRIA, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.
Welcome! A part of you is searching for your therapist to assist in the transformative journey toward healing and personal growth. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome the shadows of trauma, anxiety, panic disorders, chronic pain, depression, and much more. In a world where time can seem like a luxury, I understand the urgency of addressing deep-rooted issues. Unlike traditional therapy that may stretch on for years, I specialize in crafting concise, time-specific sessions that dive straight to the heart of the matter. Together, we'll unravel the layers and discover the real roots of your challenges.
As a certified EMDR therapist through the esteemed organization of EMDRIA, I bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table.
Welcome! A part of you is searching for your therapist to assist in the transformative journey toward healing and personal growth. I am dedicated to helping individuals overcome the shadows of trauma, anxiety, panic disorders, chronic pain, depression, and much more. In a world where time can seem like a luxury, I understand the urgency of addressing deep-rooted issues. Unlike traditional therapy that may stretch on for years, I specialize in crafting concise, time-specific sessions that dive straight to the heart of the matter. Together, we'll unravel the layers and discover the real roots of your challenges.
(904) 867-2870 View (904) 867-2870
Photo of Margaret Rose Glenn - Margaret Rose Glenn Counseling, PLLC, LCSW, ACHP-SW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret Rose Glenn Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACHP-SW, BCD
Verified Verified
Fleming Island, FL 32003
I use expressive art therapy and EMDR extensively.
I prefer to work with clients over 21 years old. I am gentle in my approach, am told I have a calming presence, and I have demonstrated the ability to be a peacemaker in troubled family situations. My faith and my good instincts have helped me to provide compassionate and professional care to my clients and to their families. I work with couples and individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I also have a wide array of life experiences and have survived difficult and painful times in my own life. I can offer hope, encouragement and help to those who seek healing.
I use expressive art therapy and EMDR extensively.
I prefer to work with clients over 21 years old. I am gentle in my approach, am told I have a calming presence, and I have demonstrated the ability to be a peacemaker in troubled family situations. My faith and my good instincts have helped me to provide compassionate and professional care to my clients and to their families. I work with couples and individuals who are experiencing depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other difficult and painful circumstances. I also have a wide array of life experiences and have survived difficult and painful times in my own life. I can offer hope, encouragement and help to those who seek healing.
(904) 567-5403 View (904) 567-5403
Photo of Shanti Hollis, MS
Shanti Hollis
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Saint Johns, FL 32259
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a highly effective, research-based approach.
Hello, I’m Shanti, a therapist specializing in helping adult women free themselves from the burdens of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate daily life while managing intense emotions and thoughts, and I want you to know that I’m here to support you with compassion and care.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, a highly effective, research-based approach.
Hello, I’m Shanti, a therapist specializing in helping adult women free themselves from the burdens of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I understand how overwhelming it can be to navigate daily life while managing intense emotions and thoughts, and I want you to know that I’m here to support you with compassion and care.
(904) 664-5610 View (904) 664-5610
Photo of Jeannie Mitchell - EMDR Trauma Therapy Center, LLC, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR
EMDR Trauma Therapy Center, LLC
LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Fleming Island, FL 32003
The therapists and nurse practitioners at EMDR Trauma Therapy Center are highly trained in treating symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias either online or in person. We treat adults, adolescents, and special populations such as veterans, first responders, and professionals. Our highly trained medication providers and therapists specialize in treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, and many others. You can express yourself in a supportive, non-judgmental setting to overcome adversities & manage symptoms. Virtual evening appointments are available.
The therapists and nurse practitioners at EMDR Trauma Therapy Center are highly trained in treating symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, depression, and phobias either online or in person. We treat adults, adolescents, and special populations such as veterans, first responders, and professionals. Our highly trained medication providers and therapists specialize in treatments such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, CPT, and many others. You can express yourself in a supportive, non-judgmental setting to overcome adversities & manage symptoms. Virtual evening appointments are available.
(904) 320-1043 View (904) 320-1043
Photo of Jada Helmer - Keep Evolving Beyond Therapy, Inc., COO, LMHC, QS-MH, Counselor
Keep Evolving Beyond Therapy, Inc.
Counselor, COO, LMHC, QS-MH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange Park, FL 32065
Our staff features Clinicians intensely trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Trauma Therapy (EMDR & DBT PE).
We want treatment to be accessible to everyone! To accommodate, we have graduate-level clinicians who can provide discounted treatment rates starting at $45 per session. The rate for one of our more seasoned professionals begins at $105, to give you a point of reference. We have 5 Registered Mental Health Counselors and 2 LMHCs. We also accept most major insurances. We are so excited you are considering us as your psychotherapy treatment provider! Our main goal is to provide care that treats the whole self in a safe environment without judgment. We are here to help. Please visit our website for more information.
Our staff features Clinicians intensely trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Gottman Couples Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Trauma Therapy (EMDR & DBT PE).
We want treatment to be accessible to everyone! To accommodate, we have graduate-level clinicians who can provide discounted treatment rates starting at $45 per session. The rate for one of our more seasoned professionals begins at $105, to give you a point of reference. We have 5 Registered Mental Health Counselors and 2 LMHCs. We also accept most major insurances. We are so excited you are considering us as your psychotherapy treatment provider! Our main goal is to provide care that treats the whole self in a safe environment without judgment. We are here to help. Please visit our website for more information.
(904) 395-4886 View (904) 395-4886
Photo of Ann Walker Korahais, MA, MEd, LMHC, EMDR, Counselor
Ann Walker Korahais
Counselor, MA, MEd, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fleming Island, FL 32003
I am EMDR trained and enjoy helping clients with trauma and anxiety.
Deciding to begin counseling is one of the best and most important decisions you can make. Successful counseling begins with the therapeutic relationship between the counselor and the client. Trust is at the heart of being able to be vulnerable and honest. This is why I put significant effort into establishing rapport and creating a safe space, free of judgment, for you to feel comfortable discussing difficult issues. The goal is a harmonious relationship where you feel safe to address your feelings, ideas, worries, struggles, and dreams. Strong communication will allow us to move toward the changes you want.
I am EMDR trained and enjoy helping clients with trauma and anxiety.
Deciding to begin counseling is one of the best and most important decisions you can make. Successful counseling begins with the therapeutic relationship between the counselor and the client. Trust is at the heart of being able to be vulnerable and honest. This is why I put significant effort into establishing rapport and creating a safe space, free of judgment, for you to feel comfortable discussing difficult issues. The goal is a harmonious relationship where you feel safe to address your feelings, ideas, worries, struggles, and dreams. Strong communication will allow us to move toward the changes you want.
(904) 932-1745 View (904) 932-1745
Photo of Amy A Wilson, LMHC, Counselor
Amy A Wilson
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orange Park, FL 32065  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida with 16 years experience in the field of mental health. I help individuals, couples, and families find new ways to navigate life. To find hope and where there once was none. I specialize in trauma, substance use, marriage and family counseling, and various mental health diagnoses. I am a wife, mother, and lover of Great Danes (we have 2). I am a trained in EMDR through EMDRIA and a Certified Trauma Professional, a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Clinician, certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and CAMS Certified in Suicide Prevention.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) in the state of Florida with 16 years experience in the field of mental health. I help individuals, couples, and families find new ways to navigate life. To find hope and where there once was none. I specialize in trauma, substance use, marriage and family counseling, and various mental health diagnoses. I am a wife, mother, and lover of Great Danes (we have 2). I am a trained in EMDR through EMDRIA and a Certified Trauma Professional, a Certified Mindfulness-Informed Clinician, certified in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and CAMS Certified in Suicide Prevention.
(904) 780-9668 View (904) 780-9668
Photo of Amanda Sweat, LMHC, Counselor
Amanda Sweat
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Orange Park, FL 32065  (Online Only)
I am a trained EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) counselor.
Having worked with a non profit organization for 9 years as a case manager, adoptions specialist, and a family services counselor, I developed a passion for working with teens and adults from all walks of life. I worked as a trauma therapist and partnered with the Department of Children and Families to assist families with traumatic experiences. I have been in private practice since 2014, working extensively with children and adults who have been sexually abused, as well as veterans and active military alongside their families.
I am a trained EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) counselor.
Having worked with a non profit organization for 9 years as a case manager, adoptions specialist, and a family services counselor, I developed a passion for working with teens and adults from all walks of life. I worked as a trauma therapist and partnered with the Department of Children and Families to assist families with traumatic experiences. I have been in private practice since 2014, working extensively with children and adults who have been sexually abused, as well as veterans and active military alongside their families.
(904) 822-8059 View (904) 822-8059
Photo of Jeffrey D Bishop, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Jeffrey D Bishop
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Orange Park, FL 32065
Therapeutic methods I offer include EMDR (especially for trauma), Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), mindfulness-based therapy (Christian or secular approach), and exposure therapy (eg-Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD).
Are you looking for a Christian/faith-integrated approach to therapy utilizing some of the most sound and effective treatment methods? If so, I'd love to talk to you. I have 15 years experience as a therapist helping individuals and couples with a wide array of problems. My approach to therapy is based on trust, honesty, empathy, genuine good will towards my clients, and respect for each individual and their autonomy. My aim is therapeutic effectiveness to bring about true healing, growth, and strengthening of the individual or relationship, leading to holistic health in mind, body, emotions, spirit, and relationships.
Therapeutic methods I offer include EMDR (especially for trauma), Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFT), mindfulness-based therapy (Christian or secular approach), and exposure therapy (eg-Exposure and Response Prevention for OCD).
Are you looking for a Christian/faith-integrated approach to therapy utilizing some of the most sound and effective treatment methods? If so, I'd love to talk to you. I have 15 years experience as a therapist helping individuals and couples with a wide array of problems. My approach to therapy is based on trust, honesty, empathy, genuine good will towards my clients, and respect for each individual and their autonomy. My aim is therapeutic effectiveness to bring about true healing, growth, and strengthening of the individual or relationship, leading to holistic health in mind, body, emotions, spirit, and relationships.
(904) 775-7023 View (904) 775-7023
Photo of April Eckhardt, LMFT, BC-TMH, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
April Eckhardt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BC-TMH, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Orange Park, FL 32065  (Online Only)
***ONLINE - TELEHEALTH ONLY; Ability to see anyone in the state of Florida*** Life is hard. Sometimes daily activities can seem daunting with little hope of positive change. There are challenges and transitions in life that can lead to anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress. We may have an unfulfilling relationship where there is a desperate attempt for emotional connection, communication or healing from an infidelity. I utilize research-based therapies, such as EFT and EMDR, which can provide long lasting and effective change.
***ONLINE - TELEHEALTH ONLY; Ability to see anyone in the state of Florida*** Life is hard. Sometimes daily activities can seem daunting with little hope of positive change. There are challenges and transitions in life that can lead to anxiety, depression, or overwhelming stress. We may have an unfulfilling relationship where there is a desperate attempt for emotional connection, communication or healing from an infidelity. I utilize research-based therapies, such as EFT and EMDR, which can provide long lasting and effective change.
(904) 409-3188 View (904) 409-3188

See more therapy options for Green Cove Springs

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.