EMDR Therapists in Miramar Beach, FL

Photo of Victoria Elise Miller, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Elise Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miramar Beach, FL 32550
My approach is using a technique called EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, an evidence based, worldwide treatment for trauma.
Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. That knowledge is what led me to become a therapist ... how effective and life-changing therapy can be. I start where you, the client, are and we make a treatment plan together to reach the goals you would like to achieve. We will develop a working hypothesis that may change over time as new information is obtained. Many mental health issues begin with an event and the mental health issue, be it anxiety, panic attacks, depression, anger, unrelated phobia, facial tic, chronic pain, avoidant behavior, dysfunctional relationship pattern, stress and/or insomnia is the resulting symptom.
My approach is using a technique called EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, an evidence based, worldwide treatment for trauma.
Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. That knowledge is what led me to become a therapist ... how effective and life-changing therapy can be. I start where you, the client, are and we make a treatment plan together to reach the goals you would like to achieve. We will develop a working hypothesis that may change over time as new information is obtained. Many mental health issues begin with an event and the mental health issue, be it anxiety, panic attacks, depression, anger, unrelated phobia, facial tic, chronic pain, avoidant behavior, dysfunctional relationship pattern, stress and/or insomnia is the resulting symptom.
(423) 441-1797 View (423) 441-1797
Photo of Jennifer Williams, LMHC
Jennifer Williams
LMHC
Verified Verified
Miramar Beach, FL 32550  (Online Only)
In an effort to give the best practice to my clients, I have training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy and other types of therapy.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with diverse individuals in the community, private practice, and residential substance abuse treatment. Never in a million years did I ever think providing counseling to individuals, couples, families, and groups, would be the career to captivate my heart….but it is! My specialties are working with clients who may have life struggles stemming from traumatic incidents, substance abuse, various forms of anxiety (PTSD, stress disorders), depression, and self-esteem.
In an effort to give the best practice to my clients, I have training in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), Trauma Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Person-Centered Therapy, Narrative Therapy and other types of therapy.
I am a licensed mental health counselor with over 25 years of experience working with diverse individuals in the community, private practice, and residential substance abuse treatment. Never in a million years did I ever think providing counseling to individuals, couples, families, and groups, would be the career to captivate my heart….but it is! My specialties are working with clients who may have life struggles stemming from traumatic incidents, substance abuse, various forms of anxiety (PTSD, stress disorders), depression, and self-esteem.
(754) 399-3415 View (754) 399-3415
Photo of Sarah Bearss, LPC, MHSP, NCC, LPCC, LMHC, Counselor
Sarah Bearss
Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC, LPCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miramar Beach, FL 32550  (Online Only)
I am a Level II EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist.
I'm here to help and walk with you on your path to growth! My work as a therapist is grounded in the belief that everyone has the power to conquer challenges and grow as a person with the right tools and guidance. Therapy provides a unique opportunity to explore new parts of yourself, challenge old beliefs, and develop new ways of healing. I have over 11 years experience working as a therapist with a speciality in trauma and anxiety. Helping you reach your personal goals is my priority.
I am a Level II EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapist.
I'm here to help and walk with you on your path to growth! My work as a therapist is grounded in the belief that everyone has the power to conquer challenges and grow as a person with the right tools and guidance. Therapy provides a unique opportunity to explore new parts of yourself, challenge old beliefs, and develop new ways of healing. I have over 11 years experience working as a therapist with a speciality in trauma and anxiety. Helping you reach your personal goals is my priority.
(931) 652-1466 View (931) 652-1466
Photo of Amanda Conroy, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Conroy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Miramar Beach, FL 32550  (Online Only)
You’re overwhelmed by worry daily. Feelings of anxiety are always there. It is tiring living in this stressed out and irritable state. You want to live a life where worry and anxiety do not plague you. You need support in coping with and managing the everyday stress. Most importantly, you need a therapist that shares your Christian worldview. A therapist that will lead you back to the word of God and support you in strengthening your faith. You are ready to break free from fear and start trusting the Lord in your life.
You’re overwhelmed by worry daily. Feelings of anxiety are always there. It is tiring living in this stressed out and irritable state. You want to live a life where worry and anxiety do not plague you. You need support in coping with and managing the everyday stress. Most importantly, you need a therapist that shares your Christian worldview. A therapist that will lead you back to the word of God and support you in strengthening your faith. You are ready to break free from fear and start trusting the Lord in your life.
(720) 702-1453 View (720) 702-1453
Photo of Tamra Snook, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamra Snook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Do you desire a rich, full life but find that life's difficulties, personal emotional issues and unresolved past or present conflicts get in the way? There is hope! Everyone has the capacity for healing and to make the changes they desire. Inherent in each person is the ability to 'live life better' and understanding 'what makes you tick' is key. My desire is to work hand in hand with you...whether it requires working through the past, being mindful of the present or preparing for the future so that you can process and develop the life you desire.
Do you desire a rich, full life but find that life's difficulties, personal emotional issues and unresolved past or present conflicts get in the way? There is hope! Everyone has the capacity for healing and to make the changes they desire. Inherent in each person is the ability to 'live life better' and understanding 'what makes you tick' is key. My desire is to work hand in hand with you...whether it requires working through the past, being mindful of the present or preparing for the future so that you can process and develop the life you desire.
(850) 726-3953 View (850) 726-3953
Photo of Tamra Snook - Tamra Snook LCSW Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamra Snook LCSW Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Do you desire a rich, full life but find that life's difficulties, personal emotional issues and unresolved past or present conflicts get in the way? There is hope! Everyone has the capacity for healing and to make the changes they desire. Inherent in each person is the ability to 'live life better' and understanding 'what makes you tick' is key. My desire is to work hand in hand with you...whether it requires working through the past, being mindful of the present or preparing for the future so that you can process and develop the life you desire.
Do you desire a rich, full life but find that life's difficulties, personal emotional issues and unresolved past or present conflicts get in the way? There is hope! Everyone has the capacity for healing and to make the changes they desire. Inherent in each person is the ability to 'live life better' and understanding 'what makes you tick' is key. My desire is to work hand in hand with you...whether it requires working through the past, being mindful of the present or preparing for the future so that you can process and develop the life you desire.
(865) 874-6303 View (865) 874-6303
Photo of Tamra Snook - Tamra Snook LCSW Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamra Snook LCSW Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Do you desire a rich, full life but find that life's difficulties, personal emotional issues and unresolved past or present conflicts get in the way? There is hope! Everyone has the capacity for healing and to make the changes they desire. Inherent in each person is the ability to 'live life better' and understanding 'what makes you tick' is key. My desire is to work hand in hand with you...whether it requires working through the past, being mindful of the present or preparing for the future so that you can process and develop the life you desire.
Do you desire a rich, full life but find that life's difficulties, personal emotional issues and unresolved past or present conflicts get in the way? There is hope! Everyone has the capacity for healing and to make the changes they desire. Inherent in each person is the ability to 'live life better' and understanding 'what makes you tick' is key. My desire is to work hand in hand with you...whether it requires working through the past, being mindful of the present or preparing for the future so that you can process and develop the life you desire.
(865) 927-5744 View (865) 927-5744
Photo of Christina Izabele Williams - CW  Holistic Counseling, MS, LMHC, Counselor
CW Holistic Counseling
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miramar Beach, FL 32550
My name is Christina, I have a Master of Science degree in counseling and psychology. Life is a beautiful journey, but there are moments when it can seem too overwhelming to navigate it alone. Sometimes you need to reach out to someone who can help you find your way forward. If you feel weighed down by feelings of uncertainty or distress, come to see me. Together, we can work to identify and treat the root causes of your difficulties and create a new opportunity for a life with rich experiences and joyful memories.
My name is Christina, I have a Master of Science degree in counseling and psychology. Life is a beautiful journey, but there are moments when it can seem too overwhelming to navigate it alone. Sometimes you need to reach out to someone who can help you find your way forward. If you feel weighed down by feelings of uncertainty or distress, come to see me. Together, we can work to identify and treat the root causes of your difficulties and create a new opportunity for a life with rich experiences and joyful memories.
(850) 600-2784 View (850) 600-2784
Photo of Lisa A Alvey, MS, MEd, LMHC, Counselor
Lisa A Alvey
Counselor, MS, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Feeling sad, depressed, overwhelmed or anxious? Afraid your marriage won’t last, or your child’s grades are dropping? Life experiences trigger a cascade of painful emotions, limiting beliefs, and destructive thoughts and patterns of behavior that can seem impossible to resolve. Together we'll use methods to understand and remove obstacles and limiting beliefs that prevent you from living.
Feeling sad, depressed, overwhelmed or anxious? Afraid your marriage won’t last, or your child’s grades are dropping? Life experiences trigger a cascade of painful emotions, limiting beliefs, and destructive thoughts and patterns of behavior that can seem impossible to resolve. Together we'll use methods to understand and remove obstacles and limiting beliefs that prevent you from living.
(850) 909-9293 View (850) 909-9293
Photo of Tamra Snook - Tamra Snook LCSW Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tamra Snook LCSW Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Miramar Beach, FL 32550
Do you desire a rich, full life but find that life's difficulties, personal emotional issues and unresolved past or present conflicts get in the way? There is hope! Everyone has the capacity for healing and to make the changes they desire. Inherent in each person is the ability to 'live life better' and understanding 'what makes you tick' is key. My desire is to work hand in hand with you...whether it requires working through the past, being mindful of the present or preparing for the future so that you can process and develop the life you desire.
Do you desire a rich, full life but find that life's difficulties, personal emotional issues and unresolved past or present conflicts get in the way? There is hope! Everyone has the capacity for healing and to make the changes they desire. Inherent in each person is the ability to 'live life better' and understanding 'what makes you tick' is key. My desire is to work hand in hand with you...whether it requires working through the past, being mindful of the present or preparing for the future so that you can process and develop the life you desire.
(865) 995-5994 View (865) 995-5994
Photo of Teresa M Maxwell, MPH, LCSW, SAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Teresa M Maxwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, LCSW, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miramar Beach, FL 32550  (Online Only)
Licensed in Florida , Mississippi and Tennessee. Services available via Telehealth. Therapy is a partnership. I believe it is important to build a relationship with my client. It is my intent to provide a safe space to work together. I believe it is helpful to assist clients with acknowledging feelings and noticing thoughts with a commitment to actions that align with what is important to the client. I believe in the client's own healing capacity with work on core beliefs about oneself with kindness and self care. Compassion, empathy, and respect for all my clients is what I try to express in the very first session.
Licensed in Florida , Mississippi and Tennessee. Services available via Telehealth. Therapy is a partnership. I believe it is important to build a relationship with my client. It is my intent to provide a safe space to work together. I believe it is helpful to assist clients with acknowledging feelings and noticing thoughts with a commitment to actions that align with what is important to the client. I believe in the client's own healing capacity with work on core beliefs about oneself with kindness and self care. Compassion, empathy, and respect for all my clients is what I try to express in the very first session.
(850) 338-7273 View (850) 338-7273

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Marcia Butcher, MA, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor
Marcia Butcher
Counselor, MA, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Destin, FL 32541
In addition to my Masters in Counseling I also have completed training in Emotional Focused Therapy, EMDR, Spiritual Direction and Schema Therapy.
Do you sometimes find yourself feeling overwhelmed with life? Or relationships? Or circumstances? I can offer you a fresh perspective through my creative counseling approach. I specialize in premarital and marriage counseling as well as helping adolescence and adults through trauma, transitions, grief, and personal development.
In addition to my Masters in Counseling I also have completed training in Emotional Focused Therapy, EMDR, Spiritual Direction and Schema Therapy.
Do you sometimes find yourself feeling overwhelmed with life? Or relationships? Or circumstances? I can offer you a fresh perspective through my creative counseling approach. I specialize in premarital and marriage counseling as well as helping adolescence and adults through trauma, transitions, grief, and personal development.
(407) 512-5844 View (407) 512-5844
Photo of Tricia M Walsh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tricia M Walsh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Destin, FL 32541
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy ( EMDR) and mindfulness to assist you in achieving your desired outcome.
I enjoy helping others rediscover their authentic self through peeling back the layers of problems and gaining insight and peace of mind. I have found that so many people live with pain due to past trauma, relationship problems, addiction, and everyday life issues resulting in feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, sleep problems, hopelessness and isolation.
I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy ( EMDR) and mindfulness to assist you in achieving your desired outcome.
I enjoy helping others rediscover their authentic self through peeling back the layers of problems and gaining insight and peace of mind. I have found that so many people live with pain due to past trauma, relationship problems, addiction, and everyday life issues resulting in feelings of depression, anxiety, stress, sleep problems, hopelessness and isolation.
(850) 391-4593 View (850) 391-4593
Photo of Jennifer E Thakur, MEd, LCMHC
Jennifer E Thakur
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Destin, FL 32540  (Online Only)
I enjoy helping teens, young adults, couples and families in both North Carolina and Florida achieve their counseling goals using research based strategies and techniques. I am trained in trauma informed techniques such as TF-CBT and EMDR. I also enjoy incorporating mindfulness, yoga, art and play into the therapeutic experience.
I enjoy helping teens, young adults, couples and families in both North Carolina and Florida achieve their counseling goals using research based strategies and techniques. I am trained in trauma informed techniques such as TF-CBT and EMDR. I also enjoy incorporating mindfulness, yoga, art and play into the therapeutic experience.
(919) 276-8864 View (919) 276-8864
Photo of Nancy Graham, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Nancy Graham
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Destin, FL 32540
I hold certifications in EMDR and TF-CBT and incorporate play and sand tray therapy into my approach.
Life's unexpected twists and turns can leave us feeling lost, but having someone who offers support without judgment can make all the difference. Creating a safe haven where individuals can freely express their emotions is both an honor and a privilege. If you're facing challenges and feel stuck, know that you don't have to go through it alone. As a former Army soldier and an Air Force spouse, I understand the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany life's "hurry up and wait" moments. I believe this shouldn't extend to mental health—we deserve proactive support.
I hold certifications in EMDR and TF-CBT and incorporate play and sand tray therapy into my approach.
Life's unexpected twists and turns can leave us feeling lost, but having someone who offers support without judgment can make all the difference. Creating a safe haven where individuals can freely express their emotions is both an honor and a privilege. If you're facing challenges and feel stuck, know that you don't have to go through it alone. As a former Army soldier and an Air Force spouse, I understand the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany life's "hurry up and wait" moments. I believe this shouldn't extend to mental health—we deserve proactive support.
(850) 290-0673 View (850) 290-0673
Photo of Melanie Cassulo, LMHC, PA, Counselor
Melanie Cassulo
Counselor, LMHC, PA
Verified Verified
Destin, FL 32541
We will work together to pinpoint characteristics that may be problems, then use EMDR or cognitive behavioral techniques to help identify the changes that will help quickly.
Is life unpredictable and chaotic? Are you depressed or anxious, lost interest in doing things that have been important to you, sometimes feel like you've lost yourself? Do you sometimes use alcohol or other substances so you don't feel? Have you experienced trauma or injuries that you struggle to manage? Let's work together to change course whether you are struggling with addiction, trauma, loss, or the stress of everyday life.
We will work together to pinpoint characteristics that may be problems, then use EMDR or cognitive behavioral techniques to help identify the changes that will help quickly.
Is life unpredictable and chaotic? Are you depressed or anxious, lost interest in doing things that have been important to you, sometimes feel like you've lost yourself? Do you sometimes use alcohol or other substances so you don't feel? Have you experienced trauma or injuries that you struggle to manage? Let's work together to change course whether you are struggling with addiction, trauma, loss, or the stress of everyday life.
(850) 213-1969 View (850) 213-1969
Photo of Elizabeth Lopez, LCSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Destin, FL 32540
I was formally trained in DBT Child through Behavioral Tech, Prolonged Exposure for PTSD, Levels 1, 2 and 3 of the Body-Brain Approach to Sandtray and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) to treat traumas.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience. I specialize in the treatment of suicidal behavior/thoughts, depression, anxiety, self-injury, PTSD, social anxiety, and mood dysregulation. I provide Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in individual therapy and lead coping skills groups. In addition to offering DBT to children and adolescents, I am an experienced and trained play therapist. I am open to clients who have experienced hospitalization, difficulty finding a therapist who can help resolve challenging issues or whose problems have persisted over time.
I was formally trained in DBT Child through Behavioral Tech, Prolonged Exposure for PTSD, Levels 1, 2 and 3 of the Body-Brain Approach to Sandtray and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) to treat traumas.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience. I specialize in the treatment of suicidal behavior/thoughts, depression, anxiety, self-injury, PTSD, social anxiety, and mood dysregulation. I provide Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) in individual therapy and lead coping skills groups. In addition to offering DBT to children and adolescents, I am an experienced and trained play therapist. I am open to clients who have experienced hospitalization, difficulty finding a therapist who can help resolve challenging issues or whose problems have persisted over time.
(404) 800-9877 View (404) 800-9877
Photo of Jacquelyn Broadus, MA, LMHC-S, Counselor
Jacquelyn Broadus
Counselor, MA, LMHC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Destin, FL 32541
I am EMDR certified, TF-CBT certified, CBT trained, DBT trained, and include aspects of expressive arts and Animal Assisted Interactions in treatment.
My desire as a therapist is to help others discover the joy in living. I believe that those burdened with traumatic or distressing life events can find hope, healing, and freedom. Many high-performing, intelligent people secretly battle anxiety, depression, and trauma/stress, and they become overwhelmed trying to handle it alone. The mask of perfection smiles that "everything is ok," while the true person feels lost, drained, and confused. If you or a loved one are having difficulty navigating life due to upsetting, stressful life experiences, therapy can provide opportunities to breathe deeply again and look forward to a new day.
I am EMDR certified, TF-CBT certified, CBT trained, DBT trained, and include aspects of expressive arts and Animal Assisted Interactions in treatment.
My desire as a therapist is to help others discover the joy in living. I believe that those burdened with traumatic or distressing life events can find hope, healing, and freedom. Many high-performing, intelligent people secretly battle anxiety, depression, and trauma/stress, and they become overwhelmed trying to handle it alone. The mask of perfection smiles that "everything is ok," while the true person feels lost, drained, and confused. If you or a loved one are having difficulty navigating life due to upsetting, stressful life experiences, therapy can provide opportunities to breathe deeply again and look forward to a new day.
(850) 750-8763 View (850) 750-8763
Photo of Shalini Semento, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shalini Semento
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Destin, FL 32541
I am trained in EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), PE (Prolong Exposure), CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy) CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) CBT-I( Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia) and mindfulness techniques to recover for any trauma or life changes.
My name is Shalini Semento, and as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am here to meet you wherever you are in life, and help guide the path to a new chapter of your life. I have been an LCSW for a number of years from working with disenfranchised communities, hospital settings, crisis centers, & military. I get it, and I understand that life can throw some curve balls at times. Let’s make this collaboration to overcome obstacles, and to find new tools for you to live your best life.
I am trained in EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), PE (Prolong Exposure), CPT (Cognitive Processing Therapy) CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy) CBT-I( Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia) and mindfulness techniques to recover for any trauma or life changes.
My name is Shalini Semento, and as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, I am here to meet you wherever you are in life, and help guide the path to a new chapter of your life. I have been an LCSW for a number of years from working with disenfranchised communities, hospital settings, crisis centers, & military. I get it, and I understand that life can throw some curve balls at times. Let’s make this collaboration to overcome obstacles, and to find new tools for you to live your best life.
(850) 213-2786 View (850) 213-2786
Photo of Dr. Tonice Krueger, PsyD, MA, LCP, QS, Psychologist
Dr. Tonice Krueger
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, LCP, QS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Destin, FL 32541
Drawing upon a diverse clinical background, I incorporate a variety of evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), Motivational, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprossessing( EMDR) Therapies.
I'm an Air Force Veteran and a military spouse. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. I've been a mental health provider since 2010. I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic stress, binge eating, relationship issues, and more. I believe that in order to improve a person's overall health and wellness, we need to focus on healing the mind and body. In striving toward integrated healing, we will work together to tailor a treatment plan that fits your personal goals, needs, and pace. Additionally, I provide Psychological Assessments/Testing.
Drawing upon a diverse clinical background, I incorporate a variety of evidence-based practices including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy(CBT), Motivational, Solution Focused, Family Systems, and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprossessing( EMDR) Therapies.
I'm an Air Force Veteran and a military spouse. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and a Master's Degree in Marriage & Family Therapy. I've been a mental health provider since 2010. I treat a wide range of conditions including depression, anxiety, trauma, chronic stress, binge eating, relationship issues, and more. I believe that in order to improve a person's overall health and wellness, we need to focus on healing the mind and body. In striving toward integrated healing, we will work together to tailor a treatment plan that fits your personal goals, needs, and pace. Additionally, I provide Psychological Assessments/Testing.
(850) 403-6280 View (850) 403-6280

See more therapy options for Miramar Beach

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.