EMDR Therapists in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL

Photo of Amy Pope-Latham, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Pope-Latham
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
While I am a trauma specialist (Certified in EMDR & intensively trained in Trauma-Focused CBT), and offer Somatic Therapy (mind/body approaches), it's my goal to help put people at ease when they come into my office.
You're having a hard time. I get it, I understand. And you're going to feel a little better just by taking a next step and reaching out, grabbing hold of a better tomorrow. Grief, trauma, anxiety, adjustment issues and the like can all be handled with awareness, kindness, and even a bit of humor.
While I am a trauma specialist (Certified in EMDR & intensively trained in Trauma-Focused CBT), and offer Somatic Therapy (mind/body approaches), it's my goal to help put people at ease when they come into my office.
You're having a hard time. I get it, I understand. And you're going to feel a little better just by taking a next step and reaching out, grabbing hold of a better tomorrow. Grief, trauma, anxiety, adjustment issues and the like can all be handled with awareness, kindness, and even a bit of humor.
(904) 395-2604 View (904) 395-2604
Photo of Tierney Shaffer, MSW, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tierney Shaffer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
Currently accepting new clients! EMDR Certified. Today we live in a challenging world and the experience of feeling stressed and overwhelmed is a familiar state. It’s important to find a therapist that you can connect with and feel safe. I have over 19 years of experience and training in mental health, working with individuals, families, and couples to help process and manage trauma, anxiety, depression and adjustment. I have experience/specialized training working with PTSD, Veterans, TBI, Domestic Violence, sexual abuse, Substance Use Disorder, Anxiety and Depression.
Currently accepting new clients! EMDR Certified. Today we live in a challenging world and the experience of feeling stressed and overwhelmed is a familiar state. It’s important to find a therapist that you can connect with and feel safe. I have over 19 years of experience and training in mental health, working with individuals, families, and couples to help process and manage trauma, anxiety, depression and adjustment. I have experience/specialized training working with PTSD, Veterans, TBI, Domestic Violence, sexual abuse, Substance Use Disorder, Anxiety and Depression.
(904) 906-3073 View (904) 906-3073
Photo of Amy Discepolo - Gentle Therapy Place, MS, LMHC, EMDRIA, CFTP, CCTP, Counselor
Gentle Therapy Place
Counselor, MS, LMHC, EMDRIA, CFTP, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
I like to use a gentle, caring, non-judgmental approach. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). and am trained in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy). I also use Brainspotting and other trauma-informed, creative and energy modalities to achieve treatment goals. I facilitate coaching sessions, using goal setting, visualization and sensory techniques to discover a new you, whether personally or professionally.
I like to use a gentle, caring, non-judgmental approach. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). and am trained in ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy). I also use Brainspotting and other trauma-informed, creative and energy modalities to achieve treatment goals. I facilitate coaching sessions, using goal setting, visualization and sensory techniques to discover a new you, whether personally or professionally.
(904) 785-3019 View (904) 785-3019
Photo of Jason Hosch, PhD, LCCC, LMHC, Counselor
Jason Hosch
Counselor, PhD, LCCC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
I am trained in both EMDR and Brainspotting for working with trauma.
My ideal clients value honesty, responsibility, respect, and personal growth. They are self-motivated and ready to make lasting changes in their lives for their own benefit. They understand that counseling is a process - a journey - and that they will get out of it what they put into it. They understand that it may be uncomfortable at times, and that things may temporarily get worse before they get better, but they understand the need to stay committed to their own healing and recovery because by doing so, they will find freedom from bondage. Website: www.lifetransitions.cc
I am trained in both EMDR and Brainspotting for working with trauma.
My ideal clients value honesty, responsibility, respect, and personal growth. They are self-motivated and ready to make lasting changes in their lives for their own benefit. They understand that counseling is a process - a journey - and that they will get out of it what they put into it. They understand that it may be uncomfortable at times, and that things may temporarily get worse before they get better, but they understand the need to stay committed to their own healing and recovery because by doing so, they will find freedom from bondage. Website: www.lifetransitions.cc
(904) 386-9518 View (904) 386-9518
Photo of denise v. jones, MS, MBA
denise v. jones
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, MBA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082  (Online Only)
My practice is primarily grounded in helping you accept all parts of yourself, embrace your past, the present and believe in the person you want to become by using mainly EMDR, parts work / internal family systems, mindfulness, and somatic practices.
Relationship struggles, feeling stuck, overwhelmed, stressed, or dealing with life challenges, can be painful and hold us back. As we work together, you will gain the necessary insight and skills to navigate these dificulties and unlock your full potential. My professional background consists mainly treating people who have experienced trauma -big or small- and addressing the different ways it shows up: anxiety, depression, low self esteem, attention issues, among other personal struggles.
My practice is primarily grounded in helping you accept all parts of yourself, embrace your past, the present and believe in the person you want to become by using mainly EMDR, parts work / internal family systems, mindfulness, and somatic practices.
Relationship struggles, feeling stuck, overwhelmed, stressed, or dealing with life challenges, can be painful and hold us back. As we work together, you will gain the necessary insight and skills to navigate these dificulties and unlock your full potential. My professional background consists mainly treating people who have experienced trauma -big or small- and addressing the different ways it shows up: anxiety, depression, low self esteem, attention issues, among other personal struggles.
(904) 593-2990 View (904) 593-2990
Photo of Mishele Lee Hart - Mishele L. Hart, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mishele L. Hart, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082  (Online Only)
I have over 20 years providing EMDR to my clients if it is prudent.
My ideal client is one that is looking to aligning with their strengths to heal their past or present concerns. I pride myself on developing a comfortable, safe environment for you to explore, accept and grow in. No judgement and at your pace. I have worked with kids and teens for over 30 years as well as adults and seniors. I enjoy helping people with any of life's struggles.
I have over 20 years providing EMDR to my clients if it is prudent.
My ideal client is one that is looking to aligning with their strengths to heal their past or present concerns. I pride myself on developing a comfortable, safe environment for you to explore, accept and grow in. No judgement and at your pace. I have worked with kids and teens for over 30 years as well as adults and seniors. I enjoy helping people with any of life's struggles.
(904) 650-5576 View (904) 650-5576
Photo of Audrey Roach-Slivinski - Beaches Therapy DBT & Mindfulness Center, MSW, LCSW, LCQSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beaches Therapy DBT & Mindfulness Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCQSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Intensively trained in DBT, EMDR and CBT! Using these evidence based treatments we will work on creating lives worth living! In my Individual & Group sessions, we look at the whole person, their struggles then challenge the viewpoint.
Ready for a change in direction and perspective? Tired of waiting for something different while stuck in a rut? Ruminating thoughts so intrusive you can't sleep making day to day a challenge. Suffering the same relationship patterns over and over with the same painful result? Tired of things not working out as you'd hoped? Little to no self confidence or hope for improvement? Need boundaries? Through nonjudgemental listening, problem solving, empathy and confidentiality we will establish an honest vibrant team relationship uncovering the way to the life you want!
Intensively trained in DBT, EMDR and CBT! Using these evidence based treatments we will work on creating lives worth living! In my Individual & Group sessions, we look at the whole person, their struggles then challenge the viewpoint.
Ready for a change in direction and perspective? Tired of waiting for something different while stuck in a rut? Ruminating thoughts so intrusive you can't sleep making day to day a challenge. Suffering the same relationship patterns over and over with the same painful result? Tired of things not working out as you'd hoped? Little to no self confidence or hope for improvement? Need boundaries? Through nonjudgemental listening, problem solving, empathy and confidentiality we will establish an honest vibrant team relationship uncovering the way to the life you want!
(904) 906-3320 View (904) 906-3320
Photo of Selina Beenen - Beenen Therapy Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beenen Therapy Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
At Beenen Therapy Group, our tailored support, using diverse modalities like psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR, Gottman Method, DBT, and ERP, specializes in trauma healing, emotional regulation, relationship improvement, and parenting guidance.
Beenen Therapy Group in Jacksonville Beach serves diverse clients – adolescents, adults, couples, and families tackling trauma, codependency, grief, depression, anxiety, OCD, parenting, and relationship issues. Motivated by transformative healing, they appreciate our therapists' eclectic approach, incorporating psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, Gottman Method, DBT, ERP, and more. Committed to personal growth, clients seek tailored and holistic interventions, valuing a practice prioritizing comprehensive, effective methods for lasting positive change.
At Beenen Therapy Group, our tailored support, using diverse modalities like psychodynamic, CBT, EMDR, Gottman Method, DBT, and ERP, specializes in trauma healing, emotional regulation, relationship improvement, and parenting guidance.
Beenen Therapy Group in Jacksonville Beach serves diverse clients – adolescents, adults, couples, and families tackling trauma, codependency, grief, depression, anxiety, OCD, parenting, and relationship issues. Motivated by transformative healing, they appreciate our therapists' eclectic approach, incorporating psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, EMDR, Gottman Method, DBT, ERP, and more. Committed to personal growth, clients seek tailored and holistic interventions, valuing a practice prioritizing comprehensive, effective methods for lasting positive change.
(904) 624-1960 View (904) 624-1960
Photo of Maria C Inoa, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria C Inoa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081  (Online Only)
You're an ambitious woman struggling with anxiety, anger, and/or sadness. Romantic relationships can reopen old wounds where we discover we still need healing. In addition, your relationships with your father, mother, and siblings can also leave you feeling unsettled, anxious, and angry (aka - triggered). You desire healing from your childhood and beyond. You've tried talk therapy in the past with little success. Maybe you've tried multiple therapists. Together, we will get to the root of your issues and help you work towards the healing you desire. I offer 60/90/120 minute sessions. I am certified in EMDR.
You're an ambitious woman struggling with anxiety, anger, and/or sadness. Romantic relationships can reopen old wounds where we discover we still need healing. In addition, your relationships with your father, mother, and siblings can also leave you feeling unsettled, anxious, and angry (aka - triggered). You desire healing from your childhood and beyond. You've tried talk therapy in the past with little success. Maybe you've tried multiple therapists. Together, we will get to the root of your issues and help you work towards the healing you desire. I offer 60/90/120 minute sessions. I am certified in EMDR.
(904) 299-0272 View (904) 299-0272
Photo of Sadie Schultheis, MS, LMHC, QS, Counselor
Sadie Schultheis
Counselor, MS, LMHC, QS
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081  (Online Only)
I am providing EMDR Therapy and certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and have treated patient’s as young as 3-years-old.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and trained in EMDR. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I have worked with a variety of clients and families including residential facilities, outpatient behavioral health programs, and private practice settings. My specialty is providing services to those who experience PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, and depression and are eager to learn how to manage difficult emotions in a healthier way. I also engage active parents to learn skills related to stress management, positive parenting, behavior management, and effective communication.
I am providing EMDR Therapy and certified in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and have treated patient’s as young as 3-years-old.
I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and trained in EMDR. I believe one of the bravest things you can do is begin to understand your own story. I have worked with a variety of clients and families including residential facilities, outpatient behavioral health programs, and private practice settings. My specialty is providing services to those who experience PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, and depression and are eager to learn how to manage difficult emotions in a healthier way. I also engage active parents to learn skills related to stress management, positive parenting, behavior management, and effective communication.
(904) 746-1999 View (904) 746-1999
Photo of Jeannie Mitchell - EMDR Trauma Therapy Center, LLC, LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR
EMDR Trauma Therapy Center, LLC
LMHC, NCC, CCMHC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
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 Chelsea Shea, MA, LMHC, Counselor
Chelsea Shea
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR therapy, a technique that helps process and resolve traumatic experiences.
Do you ever feel like the key to healing lies within you, but it's blocked by societal pressures, stigma, past trauma, or other challenges? I believe everyone can tap into their true selves and find their voice with the right support. In my work, I collaborate with individuals facing the lingering effects of trauma, which can show up in various aspects of life. My counseling background and passion focus on helping clients recover from addiction, unresolved trauma, and difficult childhood experiences.
I am trained in EMDR therapy, a technique that helps process and resolve traumatic experiences.
Do you ever feel like the key to healing lies within you, but it's blocked by societal pressures, stigma, past trauma, or other challenges? I believe everyone can tap into their true selves and find their voice with the right support. In my work, I collaborate with individuals facing the lingering effects of trauma, which can show up in various aspects of life. My counseling background and passion focus on helping clients recover from addiction, unresolved trauma, and difficult childhood experiences.
(904) 560-6198 View (904) 560-6198
Photo of Horizon Counseling Llc, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Horizon Counseling Llc Llc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082  (Online Only)
I utilize a number of techniques including: CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Psychotherapist with a history of working with adults and adolescents. As a therapist with a social work background, my practice is person-centered and rooted in empathy. My goal is to support you on your journey to improved mental health by connecting with your values and taking steps towards personal goals. I've had a lot of success working with clients who were uncertain about therapy or had a bad experience with it in the past. I bring a lot of care and intention to the work that I do and receive feedback that clients feel more than just heard but also supported in developing applicable skills they were seeking from therapy.
I utilize a number of techniques including: CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Psychotherapist with a history of working with adults and adolescents. As a therapist with a social work background, my practice is person-centered and rooted in empathy. My goal is to support you on your journey to improved mental health by connecting with your values and taking steps towards personal goals. I've had a lot of success working with clients who were uncertain about therapy or had a bad experience with it in the past. I bring a lot of care and intention to the work that I do and receive feedback that clients feel more than just heard but also supported in developing applicable skills they were seeking from therapy.
(904) 593-4176 View (904) 593-4176
Photo of Nena Tahil, LMHC, Counselor
Nena Tahil
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32004  (Online Only)
I am a solution focused, future oriented psychotherapist, practicing DBT, EMDR and CBT.
Are you feeling down, easily stressed, overwhelmed, unable to sleep? You put on a mask. No one knows how you are really feeling inside. You have always been able to do what you need to do. Now you can’t. Are you thinking, “I should …”, “maybe if I were to…”; but you procrastinate, you have no motivation. This is not who you are. This is not who you want to be. If this is what you are experiencing, we need to connect. I too have been there - felt the self-doubt, anxiety, feeling not good enough, just being stuck. I know what it takes to get back on track.
I am a solution focused, future oriented psychotherapist, practicing DBT, EMDR and CBT.
Are you feeling down, easily stressed, overwhelmed, unable to sleep? You put on a mask. No one knows how you are really feeling inside. You have always been able to do what you need to do. Now you can’t. Are you thinking, “I should …”, “maybe if I were to…”; but you procrastinate, you have no motivation. This is not who you are. This is not who you want to be. If this is what you are experiencing, we need to connect. I too have been there - felt the self-doubt, anxiety, feeling not good enough, just being stuck. I know what it takes to get back on track.
(904) 395-4784 View (904) 395-4784
Photo of Michael P McGuire, MS, LMHC
Michael P McGuire
Licensed Mental Health Counselor, MS, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
I am a Mental Health counselor and Master's level addictions and trauma therapist who specializes in TEENS and ADULTS. I use the Neuro-Affective Relational Model and EMDR to help my clients overcome the things in their past that are holding them back from living free. I absolutely love what I do and feel privileged to help people everyday. I am personally in recovery, which means that I actually live the life that I am helping people achieve.
I am a Mental Health counselor and Master's level addictions and trauma therapist who specializes in TEENS and ADULTS. I use the Neuro-Affective Relational Model and EMDR to help my clients overcome the things in their past that are holding them back from living free. I absolutely love what I do and feel privileged to help people everyday. I am personally in recovery, which means that I actually live the life that I am helping people achieve.
(904) 293-1517 View (904) 293-1517
Photo of Rachel R. White, LMHC, EMDR, Women, PTSD, Counselor
Rachel R. White
Counselor, LMHC, EMDR, Women, PTSD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
Rachel is clinically trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), a gold-standard, brain-body therapy and evidence-based treatment for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Feeling anxious? Does life seem harder than it should be? Is trauma impacting your life and your relationships? Need support breaking away from toxic people, narcissists, and unhealthy relationships? Need help breaking free from controlling thoughts, memories from childhood abuse, and/or lack of nurture? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you are in the right place. Therapy can help. You don’t have to be alone and you do not have to be stuck where you are.
Rachel is clinically trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), a gold-standard, brain-body therapy and evidence-based treatment for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression.
Feeling anxious? Does life seem harder than it should be? Is trauma impacting your life and your relationships? Need support breaking away from toxic people, narcissists, and unhealthy relationships? Need help breaking free from controlling thoughts, memories from childhood abuse, and/or lack of nurture? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you are in the right place. Therapy can help. You don’t have to be alone and you do not have to be stuck where you are.
(904) 822-8850 View (904) 822-8850
Photo of Jane Young Hill, LCSW, DCSW, CTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Young Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, DCSW, CTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
If you value a holistic approach addressing body, mind and spirit, I offer a safe and caring environment that is down to earth and practical. Our sessions will call you to personal responsibility and commitment to make changes that enrich your life. Discover tools and strategies that will empower you. Learn to change your thinking, manage your emotions, act from your values and live a life that reflects your best self. Whatever the past, healing is possible, the present precious and the future is yours to create.
If you value a holistic approach addressing body, mind and spirit, I offer a safe and caring environment that is down to earth and practical. Our sessions will call you to personal responsibility and commitment to make changes that enrich your life. Discover tools and strategies that will empower you. Learn to change your thinking, manage your emotions, act from your values and live a life that reflects your best self. Whatever the past, healing is possible, the present precious and the future is yours to create.
(904) 494-6979 View (904) 494-6979
Photo of Tesia Stokes Jean, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Tesia Stokes Jean
Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081  (Online Only)
Choosing to become a therapist was driven by a profound desire to be there for people during their most challenging times. I aim to be a source of light in the darkness, offering a listening ear free from judgment. It's incredibly fulfilling to be part of someone's journey to healing and self-discovery.
Choosing to become a therapist was driven by a profound desire to be there for people during their most challenging times. I aim to be a source of light in the darkness, offering a listening ear free from judgment. It's incredibly fulfilling to be part of someone's journey to healing and self-discovery.
(904) 875-8176 View (904) 875-8176
Photo of Robi E Tamargo, PsyD, Psychologist
Robi E Tamargo
Psychologist, PsyD
Not Verified Not Verified
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
I am an interactive, solution focused clinical psychologist with a treatment approach providing support and practical feedback to help you address your current life challenges or long-standing issues. With compassion and understanding, I will help you solve your problems. I have a Master's degree in Child Clinical Psychology with a cognitive-behavioral orientation and a Doctor of Psychology degree with a psychodynamic orientation. I draw from my extensive education, training, & practical experience to design an individualized, collaborative treatment plan. Call or e-mail me today!
I am an interactive, solution focused clinical psychologist with a treatment approach providing support and practical feedback to help you address your current life challenges or long-standing issues. With compassion and understanding, I will help you solve your problems. I have a Master's degree in Child Clinical Psychology with a cognitive-behavioral orientation and a Doctor of Psychology degree with a psychodynamic orientation. I draw from my extensive education, training, & practical experience to design an individualized, collaborative treatment plan. Call or e-mail me today!
(904) 513-9617 View (904) 513-9617
Photo of Valerie Paige Brink, LMHC, PA, Counselor
Valerie Paige Brink
Counselor, LMHC, PA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082
My practice focuses on the most precious of all people, your children. From resolving family crises to empowering your child through life transitions, I guide the way in a nurturing environment. Counseling is a fun, playful process where your kids learn the skills they need to successfully navigate life.
My practice focuses on the most precious of all people, your children. From resolving family crises to empowering your child through life transitions, I guide the way in a nurturing environment. Counseling is a fun, playful process where your kids learn the skills they need to successfully navigate life.
(904) 478-8564 View (904) 478-8564
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EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

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

Why do people need EMDR?

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

What problems does EMDR treat?

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

What happens in EMDR therapy?

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