EMDR Therapists in Palm Coast, FL

Photo of Emily Foster, LCSW, MCAP, ICADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Emily Foster
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MCAP, ICADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Waitlist for new clients
I'm certified through EMDRIA for EMDR.
Hello! My approach is founded on openness, trust, authenticity, warmth, and non-judgment. I like to roll up my sleeves and get in the work with clients, exploring the interconnected systems of what makes us who we are, as well as the feelings of distractibility, disengagement and disconnection. My goal is to empower clients to be agents of meaningful change in their lives. I partner with them to find the strength, perspectives and resiliency to overcome challenges and gain clear perspectives. I believe my client is the expert of their own life, and strive to help them connect with their innermost resources.
I'm certified through EMDRIA for EMDR.
Hello! My approach is founded on openness, trust, authenticity, warmth, and non-judgment. I like to roll up my sleeves and get in the work with clients, exploring the interconnected systems of what makes us who we are, as well as the feelings of distractibility, disengagement and disconnection. My goal is to empower clients to be agents of meaningful change in their lives. I partner with them to find the strength, perspectives and resiliency to overcome challenges and gain clear perspectives. I believe my client is the expert of their own life, and strive to help them connect with their innermost resources.
(386) 230-3563 View (386) 230-3563
Photo of Deb Reilly - Kindness and Clarity Counseling, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kindness and Clarity Counseling, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Hello! Are you ready to create a happier, more fulfilling life? Do you struggle with any of these questions: Am I good enough? Why do I feel like I don't matter? Why do I make the same choices over and over? Why am I afraid of conflict? Of the future? Why am I so stressed? Life can seem pretty bleak when pain dulls the beauty that surrounds us. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches us how to replace negative beliefs with positive ones. Learn to recognize your strengths, practice effective communication, mindfulness and gratitude. Phobias and trauma responses may disappear with EMDR. You deserve to be happy.
Hello! Are you ready to create a happier, more fulfilling life? Do you struggle with any of these questions: Am I good enough? Why do I feel like I don't matter? Why do I make the same choices over and over? Why am I afraid of conflict? Of the future? Why am I so stressed? Life can seem pretty bleak when pain dulls the beauty that surrounds us. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) teaches us how to replace negative beliefs with positive ones. Learn to recognize your strengths, practice effective communication, mindfulness and gratitude. Phobias and trauma responses may disappear with EMDR. You deserve to be happy.
(386) 854-4952 View (386) 854-4952
Photo of Beatrice Lafleur, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beatrice Lafleur
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32135  (Online Only)
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, EMDR.
Can’t make sense of why you feel the way you do or do the things that you do? Do you feel alone? I work with teens and adults providing care for patients who struggle with depression, anxiety, and the desire to reach life goals. The main goal for my patients includes establishing and becoming the best versions of themselves. I believe that in my practice, my patients can achieve their goals if they believe in themselves, put in the work, and have support. I am inspired by “not being a product of ones circumstances but, being a product of the decisions and actions made.”
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy, EMDR.
Can’t make sense of why you feel the way you do or do the things that you do? Do you feel alone? I work with teens and adults providing care for patients who struggle with depression, anxiety, and the desire to reach life goals. The main goal for my patients includes establishing and becoming the best versions of themselves. I believe that in my practice, my patients can achieve their goals if they believe in themselves, put in the work, and have support. I am inspired by “not being a product of ones circumstances but, being a product of the decisions and actions made.”
(386) 433-3967 View (386) 433-3967
Photo of Marangely Mesa - Mara Grace Counseling, LLC, MA, NCC, LMHC, Counselor
Mara Grace Counseling, LLC
Counselor, MA, NCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Drawing from a range of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based interventions, & EMDR, I tailor each session to meet the unique needs and goals of my clients.
In an ever-evolving world, change is inevitable, whether we are prepared for it or not. Our minds often wrestle with the persistent echoes of past emotional wounds and the uncertainties of the future. Finding someone who truly comprehends our emotions or whom we can confide in with our innermost thoughts and feelings can be a daunting task. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am passionate about guiding individuals on their journey towards holistic well-being. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I strive to create a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
Drawing from a range of therapeutic modalities, including CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based interventions, & EMDR, I tailor each session to meet the unique needs and goals of my clients.
In an ever-evolving world, change is inevitable, whether we are prepared for it or not. Our minds often wrestle with the persistent echoes of past emotional wounds and the uncertainties of the future. Finding someone who truly comprehends our emotions or whom we can confide in with our innermost thoughts and feelings can be a daunting task. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor, I am passionate about guiding individuals on their journey towards holistic well-being. With a compassionate and client-centered approach, I strive to create a safe and nurturing space where clients can explore their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
(386) 245-6923 View (386) 245-6923
Photo of Scott A. Wetherhold, LMHC, Counselor
Scott A. Wetherhold
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137  (Online Only)
I provide EMDR therapy which by evidence is the most effective therapy for PTSD.
If you are someone dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, coping, existential/quality of life concerns, there are solutions and hope for restoring joy and having a resolve for these issues. Using an integrative approach, therapy is tailored to best serve your specific needs. I take a directive approach to therapy as well as provide supportive guidance with warmth and humor . But most of all, I believe in the power of sincerity and respect to truly have the collaborative experience that I wish to provide.
I provide EMDR therapy which by evidence is the most effective therapy for PTSD.
If you are someone dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression, coping, existential/quality of life concerns, there are solutions and hope for restoring joy and having a resolve for these issues. Using an integrative approach, therapy is tailored to best serve your specific needs. I take a directive approach to therapy as well as provide supportive guidance with warmth and humor . But most of all, I believe in the power of sincerity and respect to truly have the collaborative experience that I wish to provide.
(386) 219-1883 View (386) 219-1883
Photo of Dr. Kim Devine, DSW, LCSW, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Kim Devine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I know what a big step this can be and that you might be feeling anxious with a lot of questions. Let me relieve some of that...feel free to call me for a free phone consultation. I want to provide you with high quality counseling services where we will work together to build upon your strengths in order to meet your goals. I work from a trauma-informed care lens and believe in the mind-body connection so I offer Walk/Talk therapy sessions to those clients who want a more active approach. I am a certified EMDR therapist and I believe this therapy can be life changing, particularly for those who have suffered trauma.
Welcome! I know what a big step this can be and that you might be feeling anxious with a lot of questions. Let me relieve some of that...feel free to call me for a free phone consultation. I want to provide you with high quality counseling services where we will work together to build upon your strengths in order to meet your goals. I work from a trauma-informed care lens and believe in the mind-body connection so I offer Walk/Talk therapy sessions to those clients who want a more active approach. I am a certified EMDR therapist and I believe this therapy can be life changing, particularly for those who have suffered trauma.
(386) 210-7942 x101 View (386) 210-7942 x101
Photo of Jesenia Villoldo, EMDR, LMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jesenia Villoldo
Marriage & Family Therapist, EMDR, LMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137  (Online Only)
Trained in: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Therapy & others.
Do you feel anxious, depressed, have symptoms of complex trauma (C-PTSD) or PTSD, have bodily symptoms that you can’t seem to control and feel like your mind and body are disconnected? Going through stressful events and unresolved traumatic life experiences can feel extremely overwhelming. It can feel even more daunting when you feel like you are alone and don’t have the correct coping skills and tools to get through it or you’ve been putting your head down and plowing forward for so long you aren’t even sure where to start. You are not overreacting. I can help individuals and couples go from “surviving” to “thriving”.
Trained in: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Somatic Therapy & others.
Do you feel anxious, depressed, have symptoms of complex trauma (C-PTSD) or PTSD, have bodily symptoms that you can’t seem to control and feel like your mind and body are disconnected? Going through stressful events and unresolved traumatic life experiences can feel extremely overwhelming. It can feel even more daunting when you feel like you are alone and don’t have the correct coping skills and tools to get through it or you’ve been putting your head down and plowing forward for so long you aren’t even sure where to start. You are not overreacting. I can help individuals and couples go from “surviving” to “thriving”.
(904) 826-7220 View (904) 826-7220
Photo of Jackie Taylor, LMHC, CCTP, Counselor
Jackie Taylor
Counselor, LMHC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137
I offer a variety of treatment approaches that include EMDR, EFT (Tapping), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused therapy.
We all go through difficult times in our lives and it takes incredible strength and courage to reach out and ask for help. I would be honored to help you through these trying times. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life adjustments, trauma, low self esteem or family issues, I will work along with you to find the best solution for your problem.
I offer a variety of treatment approaches that include EMDR, EFT (Tapping), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Solution Focused therapy.
We all go through difficult times in our lives and it takes incredible strength and courage to reach out and ask for help. I would be honored to help you through these trying times. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, life adjustments, trauma, low self esteem or family issues, I will work along with you to find the best solution for your problem.
(386) 961-4148 View (386) 961-4148
Photo of Christina R Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christina R Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137  (Online Only)
Life can be messy, and it does not come with a guidebook. Maybe it has been a struggle as long as you can remember, or perhaps there is a certain hurdle you hope to overcome. Having someone to work through problems and difficulties can be a great relief and aid along the journey. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy designed to meet your individual needs including Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, CBT, reminiscence, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
Life can be messy, and it does not come with a guidebook. Maybe it has been a struggle as long as you can remember, or perhaps there is a certain hurdle you hope to overcome. Having someone to work through problems and difficulties can be a great relief and aid along the journey. I utilize an eclectic approach to therapy designed to meet your individual needs including Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, CBT, reminiscence, motivational interviewing, and mindfulness.
(904) 853-3942 View (904) 853-3942
Photo of Donna Fleming- Griffin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Donna Fleming- Griffin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137
I’m a certified EMDR trauma therapist and have spent many years helping people put their distressful events in the past for good! EMDR therapy is evidence based and the fastest and most effective treatment for PTSD and and other psychological issues.
Are you or someone you love struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety or other mood disorders? Have you had a history of traumatic/distressful events? Is there a recent event that has caused you distress? Maybe there are relationships that just are not as satisfying as you would like them to be. Perhaps there are issues with substances or other addictions. Is communication difficult for you or do you just have a hard time coping with things going on in your life? The good news is there are solutions and help for these issues.
I’m a certified EMDR trauma therapist and have spent many years helping people put their distressful events in the past for good! EMDR therapy is evidence based and the fastest and most effective treatment for PTSD and and other psychological issues.
Are you or someone you love struggling with symptoms of depression, anxiety or other mood disorders? Have you had a history of traumatic/distressful events? Is there a recent event that has caused you distress? Maybe there are relationships that just are not as satisfying as you would like them to be. Perhaps there are issues with substances or other addictions. Is communication difficult for you or do you just have a hard time coping with things going on in your life? The good news is there are solutions and help for these issues.
(386) 200-1455 View (386) 200-1455
Photo of Tracy Lynn Corsa Parker, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Tracy Lynn Corsa Parker
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137
I have experience using EMDR and DBT.
Life can be difficult. Change, whether planned or sudden - good or not so good, can put us in a place of confusion and disarray. Therapy is not meant to be forever; it’s just to help you through life at difficult times. My ideal client is someone who does the work, gets through the issue, and then lives life accordingly. I enjoy celebrating wins with my clients!
I have experience using EMDR and DBT.
Life can be difficult. Change, whether planned or sudden - good or not so good, can put us in a place of confusion and disarray. Therapy is not meant to be forever; it’s just to help you through life at difficult times. My ideal client is someone who does the work, gets through the issue, and then lives life accordingly. I enjoy celebrating wins with my clients!
(352) 504-3859 View (352) 504-3859
Photo of Ambria Page, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ambria Page
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137
Are you ready to stop carrying that weight? I offer an effective therapy called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy.
Is the past weighing heavy on you? Or has a recent troubling event changed how you see the world and yourself? Are you struggling with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression and suspect that it all comes from somewhere in your past. Trauma, whether it is Big “T” (a reaction to a deeply disturbing, life-threatening event or situation, such as an act of violence) or Little “t” (events that typically don't involve violence or disaster but do create significant distress) leave lasting effects on us. Multiple events can also stack on this emotional weight. Leading us to develop problematic responses, negative thoughts and/or behaviors.
Are you ready to stop carrying that weight? I offer an effective therapy called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy.
Is the past weighing heavy on you? Or has a recent troubling event changed how you see the world and yourself? Are you struggling with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression and suspect that it all comes from somewhere in your past. Trauma, whether it is Big “T” (a reaction to a deeply disturbing, life-threatening event or situation, such as an act of violence) or Little “t” (events that typically don't involve violence or disaster but do create significant distress) leave lasting effects on us. Multiple events can also stack on this emotional weight. Leading us to develop problematic responses, negative thoughts and/or behaviors.
(386) 832-1671 View (386) 832-1671
Photo of Anna Izabela Torres, LMHC, EMDR , Counselor
Anna Izabela Torres
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32164
Waitlist for new clients
I create a nurturing, neutral space to foster healing, empowering self-discovery and employing evidence-based techniques like CBT, EMDR, and OCD-specific therapies for tailored treatment.
I'm here for persons who seek a transformative journey through psychotherapy. Struggling with challenges like trauma and or PTSD, OCD, Anxiety, or Depression, they yearn for healing and stability. They crave a supportive sanctuary to address their concerns, a nurturing environment where their strengths are unearthed, and self-awareness is cultivated. They seek a tailored treatment approach, leveraging evidence-based therapies with compassion and personalized care. Above all, they desire unwavering support to transcend their struggles, fostering personal growth and navigating toward an inner peace, fulfilling, purpose-driven life.
I create a nurturing, neutral space to foster healing, empowering self-discovery and employing evidence-based techniques like CBT, EMDR, and OCD-specific therapies for tailored treatment.
I'm here for persons who seek a transformative journey through psychotherapy. Struggling with challenges like trauma and or PTSD, OCD, Anxiety, or Depression, they yearn for healing and stability. They crave a supportive sanctuary to address their concerns, a nurturing environment where their strengths are unearthed, and self-awareness is cultivated. They seek a tailored treatment approach, leveraging evidence-based therapies with compassion and personalized care. Above all, they desire unwavering support to transcend their struggles, fostering personal growth and navigating toward an inner peace, fulfilling, purpose-driven life.
(386) 200-1603 View (386) 200-1603
Photo of Constance Angiuli, LCSW-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Constance Angiuli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137  (Online Only)
I primarily practice EMDR therapy to allow clients to heal their emotional brain and to visualize the life they deserve.
I am a therapist with 20 years' experience providing holistic brain-based treatment for enhanced decision making and performance coaching as well as trauma informed therapy to adolescents and adults. This approach allows me to treat PTSD, anxiety and depression but also offers brain-based coaching for career challenges, performance enhancement, future visualization. My therapy style is client centered and non-judgmental. I focus on three areas - EMDR for trauma healing, depression and anxiety. EMDR (visualization) for sports injury recovery and EMDR for high level decision making (home purchase, college, career etc.)
I primarily practice EMDR therapy to allow clients to heal their emotional brain and to visualize the life they deserve.
I am a therapist with 20 years' experience providing holistic brain-based treatment for enhanced decision making and performance coaching as well as trauma informed therapy to adolescents and adults. This approach allows me to treat PTSD, anxiety and depression but also offers brain-based coaching for career challenges, performance enhancement, future visualization. My therapy style is client centered and non-judgmental. I focus on three areas - EMDR for trauma healing, depression and anxiety. EMDR (visualization) for sports injury recovery and EMDR for high level decision making (home purchase, college, career etc.)
(301) 478-9207 View (301) 478-9207
Photo of Darrell Rhines, MS, RMHCI
Darrell Rhines
Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MS, RMHCI
Not Verified Not Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32137
And if you need help with PTSD from trauma or abuse, ask me about EMDR therapy.
I work with a lot of men who are balancing work and relationships. I see clients who are overwhelmed in their jobs, frustrated with demands coming from so many people and places. Sometimes a partner insists on the need for counseling! Kids,teens, or even adult children can be a source of stress. And then there are the teens I see whose home-life, school, or relationship pressures stress them out. Others are in the second half of life, or may be feeling the pain of divorce or loss. There is definitely hope! I’ll work with you as you need it, giving you a space to talk about things you’re facing in your life, and offering coaching.
And if you need help with PTSD from trauma or abuse, ask me about EMDR therapy.
I work with a lot of men who are balancing work and relationships. I see clients who are overwhelmed in their jobs, frustrated with demands coming from so many people and places. Sometimes a partner insists on the need for counseling! Kids,teens, or even adult children can be a source of stress. And then there are the teens I see whose home-life, school, or relationship pressures stress them out. Others are in the second half of life, or may be feeling the pain of divorce or loss. There is definitely hope! I’ll work with you as you need it, giving you a space to talk about things you’re facing in your life, and offering coaching.
(352) 541-2944 View (352) 541-2944
Photo of Sarah Bachmaier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Bachmaier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32135  (Online Only)
Specializing in EMDR therapy, I help individuals overcome trauma and stress. By using audio/visual stimulation and talk therapy, we address triggers and develop strategies for a more integrated life and healthier future. Together, in a safe and gentle process and at your pace, we will work to support you to reclaim a sense of stability and control.
Specializing in EMDR therapy, I help individuals overcome trauma and stress. By using audio/visual stimulation and talk therapy, we address triggers and develop strategies for a more integrated life and healthier future. Together, in a safe and gentle process and at your pace, we will work to support you to reclaim a sense of stability and control.
(321) 291-4970 View (321) 291-4970
Photo of Denise Renee Otero, MS, LMHC, Counselor
Denise Renee Otero
Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
Palm Coast, FL 32135  (Online Only)
My approach draws upon EMDR, CBT, DBT, Jungian-oriented and dream interpretation.
I hope to have the opportunity to work with you, build respect, trust, and positive change. The journey to self-discovery is a collaborative relationship that I approach with genuine interest, acceptance and compassion. I believe that therapy should address the person as a whole including aspects of mental, physical and spiritual well-being. I believe all clients are unique and my therapeutic approach is adaptive to each individual’s situation.
My approach draws upon EMDR, CBT, DBT, Jungian-oriented and dream interpretation.
I hope to have the opportunity to work with you, build respect, trust, and positive change. The journey to self-discovery is a collaborative relationship that I approach with genuine interest, acceptance and compassion. I believe that therapy should address the person as a whole including aspects of mental, physical and spiritual well-being. I believe all clients are unique and my therapeutic approach is adaptive to each individual’s situation.
(386) 319-5821 View (386) 319-5821
Photo of Meredith Harts, LMHC, Counselor
Meredith Harts
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32164
I commonly help others using EMDR, Sand Tray, expressive arts, CBT and play therapy techniques.
Do you find that you feel stuck in life and need some assistance? In my office, you are encouraged to be your authentic self in a space where you feel seen, heard and valued. We will collaborate to identify your needs and goals and explore various aspects of your mental health including attachments, behavior patterns and emotions. Additionally, you are encouraged to identify and process various experiences, traumas and beliefs that may be hindering your growth. Clients have reported an increase in their self awareness, healthy communication and coping skills following consistent treatment.
I commonly help others using EMDR, Sand Tray, expressive arts, CBT and play therapy techniques.
Do you find that you feel stuck in life and need some assistance? In my office, you are encouraged to be your authentic self in a space where you feel seen, heard and valued. We will collaborate to identify your needs and goals and explore various aspects of your mental health including attachments, behavior patterns and emotions. Additionally, you are encouraged to identify and process various experiences, traumas and beliefs that may be hindering your growth. Clients have reported an increase in their self awareness, healthy communication and coping skills following consistent treatment.
(386) 666-3509 View (386) 666-3509
Photo of Charlotte Harts, MS, LMHC
Charlotte Harts
MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32164
I utilize Sandtray therapy, EMDR, CBT, motivational interviewing, expressive arts and additional evidenced-based techniques to assist you in healing and finding relief.
Taking New Clients Now. As an LGBTQ+ therapist, I understand the unique challenges and experiences that you may face in this world. Whether you're coming in for the first time or are experienced with the therapeutic journey, my goal is to provide a safe and comfortable place for you to be authentically you. Treatment frequency and length can vary from person to person depending on needs.
I utilize Sandtray therapy, EMDR, CBT, motivational interviewing, expressive arts and additional evidenced-based techniques to assist you in healing and finding relief.
Taking New Clients Now. As an LGBTQ+ therapist, I understand the unique challenges and experiences that you may face in this world. Whether you're coming in for the first time or are experienced with the therapeutic journey, my goal is to provide a safe and comfortable place for you to be authentically you. Treatment frequency and length can vary from person to person depending on needs.
(386) 388-6368 View (386) 388-6368
Photo of Deborah Kay Hilyard, MS, LMHC, NCC
Deborah Kay Hilyard
Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Palm Coast, FL 32137  (Online Only)
Are you feeling down and keep going over and over the same thoughts? Do you feel isolated and lonely and don't want to burden your friends or family with your sadness? Are there days you don't want to get out of bed? Are you having difficulties sleeping? I believe we can all make the changes in our life to not feel anxious, sad or depressed.
Are you feeling down and keep going over and over the same thoughts? Do you feel isolated and lonely and don't want to burden your friends or family with your sadness? Are there days you don't want to get out of bed? Are you having difficulties sleeping? I believe we can all make the changes in our life to not feel anxious, sad or depressed.
(386) 220-8832 View (386) 220-8832
1
EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

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

Why do people need EMDR?

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

What problems does EMDR treat?

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

What happens in EMDR therapy?

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