EMDR Therapists in Avondale Estates, GA

Photo of Lisa Cottrell, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Cottrell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002  (Online Only)
I use EMDR, Brain-spotting, DBT, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Mindful Self-Compassion, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction skills and Compassionate Communication (NVC) to help you be happy and well.
When you need support, guidance, and a safe place in which to heal or to process the many stressors of these challenging times, it is important that you find a loving, insightful and highly trained therapist that feels right for you. Clients tell me that I put them at ease with my accepting and non-judgmental attitude. At the same time, I point out options you may not have considered and teach you new ways of dealing with your problems. I have over 20 years experience guiding clients into health and happiness. I appreciate you having the courage and self-compassion to get help.
I use EMDR, Brain-spotting, DBT, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems, Mindful Self-Compassion, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction skills and Compassionate Communication (NVC) to help you be happy and well.
When you need support, guidance, and a safe place in which to heal or to process the many stressors of these challenging times, it is important that you find a loving, insightful and highly trained therapist that feels right for you. Clients tell me that I put them at ease with my accepting and non-judgmental attitude. At the same time, I point out options you may not have considered and teach you new ways of dealing with your problems. I have over 20 years experience guiding clients into health and happiness. I appreciate you having the courage and self-compassion to get help.
(404) 996-1796 View (404) 996-1796
Photo of Kate Murphy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Murphy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
I work using a blend of talk therapy, somatic skills, EMDR, and Lifespan Integration.
I am not currently accepting new clients.....Researching therapists can be a daunting task, especially when you're used to tackling life's challenges on your own. Lately, something has shifted. Anxiety has you feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed. It's time to acknowledge that seeking support for yourself is not only acceptable but necessary. You deserve the time and quiet that therapy provides.
I work using a blend of talk therapy, somatic skills, EMDR, and Lifespan Integration.
I am not currently accepting new clients.....Researching therapists can be a daunting task, especially when you're used to tackling life's challenges on your own. Lately, something has shifted. Anxiety has you feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed. It's time to acknowledge that seeking support for yourself is not only acceptable but necessary. You deserve the time and quiet that therapy provides.
(678) 909-1311 View (678) 909-1311
Photo of Kelley Delchamps, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Delchamps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
I'm EMDR trained, which is powerful for clients processing trauma.
Are you looking for a place to work through trauma's impact, heal amidst anxiety, and find peace as your authentic self? I would be honored to cultivate space for you to share your story and be met with compassion. Seeking out therapy is courageous and rewarding. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, as we all face challenges in this life. My vision is to journey with clients as we lean into the truths that our stories and experiences are valid, and finding compassion for our imperfections is often where we find our greatest strength.
I'm EMDR trained, which is powerful for clients processing trauma.
Are you looking for a place to work through trauma's impact, heal amidst anxiety, and find peace as your authentic self? I would be honored to cultivate space for you to share your story and be met with compassion. Seeking out therapy is courageous and rewarding. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, as we all face challenges in this life. My vision is to journey with clients as we lean into the truths that our stories and experiences are valid, and finding compassion for our imperfections is often where we find our greatest strength.
(404) 974-3676 View (404) 974-3676
Photo of Nicole Franco - Narcissistic Abuse Therapist, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Franco - Narcissistic Abuse Therapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Avondale Estates, GA 30002  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and also integrate CBT, ACT, and Attachment Theory.
Online in Tennessee & Georgia. You've been in a cycle of toxic relationships that make you feel crazy and not good enough. You're a people pleaser and a perfectionist. You worry about everyone else's feelings but your own. You wonder, "am I the narcissist?" Maybe you've tried to set boundaries with a parent, but still feel misunderstood, criticized, or invalidated. You believe your childhood was difficult but then rationalize that it "wasn't that bad." You won't call it trauma or abuse but then what was it?
I am trained in EMDR and also integrate CBT, ACT, and Attachment Theory.
Online in Tennessee & Georgia. You've been in a cycle of toxic relationships that make you feel crazy and not good enough. You're a people pleaser and a perfectionist. You worry about everyone else's feelings but your own. You wonder, "am I the narcissist?" Maybe you've tried to set boundaries with a parent, but still feel misunderstood, criticized, or invalidated. You believe your childhood was difficult but then rationalize that it "wasn't that bad." You won't call it trauma or abuse but then what was it?
(615) 461-4711 View (615) 461-4711
Photo of Julius Jessup Peterson, MDiv, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julius Jessup Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MDiv, LCSW
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
I seek to create a safe and inclusive space for black-bodied individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, survivors of trauma, sex workers, and clients who are struggling with relationship and intimacy issues. My approach to mental health care is rooted in anti-oppressive and decolonizing frameworks. The treatment modalities that I use have been found to be effective across many cultures, ages, genders, and experiences. I am here to support my clients in rediscovering themselves, strengthening their mind-body connection, and living the life they have always wanted.
I seek to create a safe and inclusive space for black-bodied individuals, LGBTQ+ folks, survivors of trauma, sex workers, and clients who are struggling with relationship and intimacy issues. My approach to mental health care is rooted in anti-oppressive and decolonizing frameworks. The treatment modalities that I use have been found to be effective across many cultures, ages, genders, and experiences. I am here to support my clients in rediscovering themselves, strengthening their mind-body connection, and living the life they have always wanted.
(404) 626-2976 View (404) 626-2976
Photo of Melanie Storrusten - Align Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Align Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Hi, I'm Melanie Storrusten, LCSW. At Align Wellness, we work in modalities that utilize the mind-body connection to access healing at deeper levels. The work we love most is walking alongside brave journeyers who are ready and willing to face both their shadow and their light. If you are ready for this work of deeper healing, we would be honored to work with you. I personally currently provide Clinical Supervision and Consultation services for other therapists, short-term discernment sessions for folks facing big life decisions, and lead community rituals to process big emotions together.
Hi, I'm Melanie Storrusten, LCSW. At Align Wellness, we work in modalities that utilize the mind-body connection to access healing at deeper levels. The work we love most is walking alongside brave journeyers who are ready and willing to face both their shadow and their light. If you are ready for this work of deeper healing, we would be honored to work with you. I personally currently provide Clinical Supervision and Consultation services for other therapists, short-term discernment sessions for folks facing big life decisions, and lead community rituals to process big emotions together.
(404) 800-3885 View (404) 800-3885
Photo of Melissa Dickinson, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melissa Dickinson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
13 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Therapy and coaching are professional connected relationships where you explore new options with room to grow. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
Therapy and coaching are professional connected relationships where you explore new options with room to grow. I work with you to create a safe space, so that we can make real progress on the issues that matter to you.
(706) 508-4993 View (706) 508-4993
Photo of Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi, PhD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bertrina Olivia West Al-Mahdi
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Avondale Estates, GA 30002
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
Life is often tough & can be very stressful & overwhelming. Challenges are often thrown our way & we struggle with finding ways to cope. Hi, my name is Dr. O, I am a U. S. Navy veteran with a doctorate degree in International Psychologist. I am the Clinical Director of Out of the Box, CCC, a mom, a wife, & I'm here to help. I understand the difficulties of navigating the challenges of life while trying to hold it all together. I specialize in working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, and children facing emotional, cognitive, & social challenges as a result of trauma. When most people think about trauma, they usually
(404) 800-3147 View (404) 800-3147

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Amy Buesing - Amy Buesing, PsyD, BCC - Trauma Psychologist, PsyD, BCC, Psychologist
Amy Buesing, PsyD, BCC - Trauma Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD, BCC
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I’m a licensed psychologist, and I’ve been helping people heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse for 20+ years. I've been working with veterans since 2009. When indicated, I combine ketamine treatment with several evidenced-based healing modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic/body psychotherapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
I’m a licensed psychologist, and I’ve been helping people heal from trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance abuse for 20+ years. I've been working with veterans since 2009. When indicated, I combine ketamine treatment with several evidenced-based healing modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), somatic/body psychotherapy, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, and EMDR.
(404) 850-8249 View (404) 850-8249
Photo of Trey Jackson, APC, NCC, MA, Counselor
Trey Jackson
Counselor, APC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I incorporate tools from EMDR, polyvagal theory, mindfulness, addiction & relapse prevention (including pornography and video game addictions), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and parts work as deemed helpful for individual clients.
I am a holistic practitioner who works with adults and teens from a mind-body-spirit framework. I have a passion for helping clients uncover and integrate trauma & anxiety stored in the body, through EMDR, parts work, and polyvagal therapeutic approaches. I am welcoming to clients navigating integration, spiritual awakenings, exploring shadow work and processing transpersonal issues around consciousness.
I incorporate tools from EMDR, polyvagal theory, mindfulness, addiction & relapse prevention (including pornography and video game addictions), Dialectic Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and parts work as deemed helpful for individual clients.
I am a holistic practitioner who works with adults and teens from a mind-body-spirit framework. I have a passion for helping clients uncover and integrate trauma & anxiety stored in the body, through EMDR, parts work, and polyvagal therapeutic approaches. I am welcoming to clients navigating integration, spiritual awakenings, exploring shadow work and processing transpersonal issues around consciousness.
(470) 649-3450 View (470) 649-3450
Photo of Kimberly Austin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Austin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I utilize powerful therapies, Brainspotting, EMDR, EFT, and KAP to help individuals and couples work through blocks and change unhelpful patterns.
You've "worked on" yourself plenty but you still feel stuck or blocked. You get anxious or reactive in situations when, rationally, you know that you "shouldn't". The way you actually relate to yourself and people in your life does not look or feel like you wish it would. You know you are capable of more; personally, professionally, creatively, spiritually but your head and heart can't seem to get aligned. You want to feel more at peace in your own skin, more connected to the people in your life, and more engaged with life.
I utilize powerful therapies, Brainspotting, EMDR, EFT, and KAP to help individuals and couples work through blocks and change unhelpful patterns.
You've "worked on" yourself plenty but you still feel stuck or blocked. You get anxious or reactive in situations when, rationally, you know that you "shouldn't". The way you actually relate to yourself and people in your life does not look or feel like you wish it would. You know you are capable of more; personally, professionally, creatively, spiritually but your head and heart can't seem to get aligned. You want to feel more at peace in your own skin, more connected to the people in your life, and more engaged with life.
(470) 665-5431 View (470) 665-5431
Photo of Stephanie Borer, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Borer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Waitlist for new clients
I draw from a variety of evidence based approaches including EMDR and parts work.
Have you suffered overwhelming experiences that are too big for words? Maybe you believe what you are going through is too great a burden to share with others? Are you ready for your past to loosen its grip on your present, and future? I am here, with no judgments, to hold a calm and nurturing space for you. My passion is in providing a safe and collaborative space for healing, where you are seen, heard, and understood. I specialize in working with trauma, grief, chronic illness, anxiety and depression. If you are ready to reconnect with your authentic self and live life in the present, I would be honored to work with you.
I draw from a variety of evidence based approaches including EMDR and parts work.
Have you suffered overwhelming experiences that are too big for words? Maybe you believe what you are going through is too great a burden to share with others? Are you ready for your past to loosen its grip on your present, and future? I am here, with no judgments, to hold a calm and nurturing space for you. My passion is in providing a safe and collaborative space for healing, where you are seen, heard, and understood. I specialize in working with trauma, grief, chronic illness, anxiety and depression. If you are ready to reconnect with your authentic self and live life in the present, I would be honored to work with you.
(470) 296-1966 View (470) 296-1966
Photo of Maija Salins, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maija Salins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
As a therapist trained in EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, I believe that our bodies and minds are resilient and know how to heal with the right support.
As a highly sensitive person who cares about others and the world, you experience more stress, pain, and overwhelm than most. You may be feeling burned out, having trouble setting boundaries with others, or judging yourself for not being able to let go of past hurts. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to start prioritizing your own needs. You’re ready to take up space as your authentic self. Most of all, you’re ready to feel more confident and capable, with the knowledge that your sensitivity might be one of your biggest strengths.
As a therapist trained in EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, I believe that our bodies and minds are resilient and know how to heal with the right support.
As a highly sensitive person who cares about others and the world, you experience more stress, pain, and overwhelm than most. You may be feeling burned out, having trouble setting boundaries with others, or judging yourself for not being able to let go of past hurts. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to start prioritizing your own needs. You’re ready to take up space as your authentic self. Most of all, you’re ready to feel more confident and capable, with the knowledge that your sensitivity might be one of your biggest strengths.
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Photo of Hannah Boos, MA, LPC, NCC, CPTT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hannah Boos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPTT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30033
I utilize a trauma-informed, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and EMDR approach to therapy.
Hi and thank you for visiting my profile. Your decision to explore counseling reflects courage and vulnerability, and I'm honored you're here. I'm dedicated to supporting individuals (16+) facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, and spirituality. Additionally, I'm passionate about aiding those recovering from infidelity and sexual betrayal. My primary aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where your healing journey can begin, fostering progress and personal growth. Let's embark on this transformative journey together!
I utilize a trauma-informed, psychodynamic, interpersonal, and EMDR approach to therapy.
Hi and thank you for visiting my profile. Your decision to explore counseling reflects courage and vulnerability, and I'm honored you're here. I'm dedicated to supporting individuals (16+) facing challenges like anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, identity development, life transitions, and spirituality. Additionally, I'm passionate about aiding those recovering from infidelity and sexual betrayal. My primary aim is to create a safe, non-judgmental space where your healing journey can begin, fostering progress and personal growth. Let's embark on this transformative journey together!
(404) 390-4987 View (404) 390-4987
Photo of Allia Siler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allia Siler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
I am trained in EMDR and use this modality to address a variety of issues.
Thank you for considering me to be part of your journey. My name is Allia (she/her), and for my clients, I provide a safe and healing place to grow. For the past four years, I’ve worked as a therapist and advocate for child and adult survivors of abuse and sexual assault. And through this work, I have honed my skills in helping people through trauma, transitions, self-worth issues, and identity. I work with a wide range of clients and survivors and particularly gravitate towards individuals within the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities and teens/young adults.
I am trained in EMDR and use this modality to address a variety of issues.
Thank you for considering me to be part of your journey. My name is Allia (she/her), and for my clients, I provide a safe and healing place to grow. For the past four years, I’ve worked as a therapist and advocate for child and adult survivors of abuse and sexual assault. And through this work, I have honed my skills in helping people through trauma, transitions, self-worth issues, and identity. I work with a wide range of clients and survivors and particularly gravitate towards individuals within the BIPOC and LGBTQ+ communities and teens/young adults.
(706) 916-6260 View (706) 916-6260
Photo of Stephanie L. Ezust, PhD, Psychologist
Stephanie L. Ezust
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030
Waitlist for new clients
When appropriate I will use techniques such as Gestalt therapy, psychomotor, DBT, meditation practice, EMDR, and energy work.
With more than 40 years of experience, I believe that psychotherapy can provide a "safe container," a non-judgmental place, in which clients can confront their issues in complete confidentiality without fear of rejection. There is no blueprint for this process; together we create the path leading to each client's inner wisdom and healing.
When appropriate I will use techniques such as Gestalt therapy, psychomotor, DBT, meditation practice, EMDR, and energy work.
With more than 40 years of experience, I believe that psychotherapy can provide a "safe container," a non-judgmental place, in which clients can confront their issues in complete confidentiality without fear of rejection. There is no blueprint for this process; together we create the path leading to each client's inner wisdom and healing.
(404) 369-1606 x1 View (404) 369-1606 x1
Photo of Jessica Henry, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
, EMDR, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, PCIT) to youth, families, and adults coping with traumatic stress (e.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years of therapy experience. I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
, EMDR, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, PCIT) to youth, families, and adults coping with traumatic stress (e.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years of therapy experience. I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
(770) 824-0690 View (770) 824-0690
Photo of Matt Ottenweller, LCSW, MPH, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Matt Ottenweller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I employ a variety of evidence-based approaches (EMDR, TF-CBT, ARC, etc.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages, backgrounds and challenges, such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, behavioral/school problems, ADHD, ODD, grief, attachment issues, and family conflict. I have over 10 years of experience and specialized training in working with children, adolescents and their families.
I employ a variety of evidence-based approaches (EMDR, TF-CBT, ARC, etc.
I enjoy working with clients of all ages, backgrounds and challenges, such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression and other mood disorders, behavioral/school problems, ADHD, ODD, grief, attachment issues, and family conflict. I have over 10 years of experience and specialized training in working with children, adolescents and their families.
(404) 948-5969 View (404) 948-5969
Photo of Kelsie Baggs, LMHC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelsie Baggs
Licensed Professional Counselor, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
Waitlist for new clients
My specialties are in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy, drawing from both Western and Eastern research-based practices.
Struggling with finding relief from low mood or traumatic responses? Have you tried self-help, medications, or even several years of traditional talk therapy without relief? Maybe you are finding difficulty maintaining secure attachments or have relationship issues. I'm glad you're here. This journey to healing is tough, and you shouldn't have to do it alone. My clinical experience and training has focused on treating adult clients with concerns related to depression, anxiety, trauma, emotional abuse, relationship issues, personality disorders, and life-transitions.
My specialties are in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Psychedelic-Assisted Psychotherapy, drawing from both Western and Eastern research-based practices.
Struggling with finding relief from low mood or traumatic responses? Have you tried self-help, medications, or even several years of traditional talk therapy without relief? Maybe you are finding difficulty maintaining secure attachments or have relationship issues. I'm glad you're here. This journey to healing is tough, and you shouldn't have to do it alone. My clinical experience and training has focused on treating adult clients with concerns related to depression, anxiety, trauma, emotional abuse, relationship issues, personality disorders, and life-transitions.
(786) 384-5303 View (786) 384-5303
Photo of Rebecca Anne Jones, PhD, Psychologist
Rebecca Anne Jones
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Decatur, GA 30030  (Online Only)
I have training in experiential, cognitive-behavioral and feminist therapies, as well as specific interventions, including EMDR for trauma-related symptoms, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and emotion focused therapy (EFT) for couples.
My goal is to provide focused treatment to help you feel better quickly. You can learn skills to reduce anxiety, mood swings, and negative life patterns. We may be a good match if you are experiencing grief or loss, relationship distress, anxiety, depression, or PTSD from trauma, or if you want to increase self-care. I also work well with children of alcoholics and caregivers (w/ a loved-one with dementia or illness.) Overall, I strive to help clients become more joyful and successful with themselves and with others. I welcome clients with a range of multicultural, gender and sexual identities, and I am committed to social justice.
I have training in experiential, cognitive-behavioral and feminist therapies, as well as specific interventions, including EMDR for trauma-related symptoms, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and emotion focused therapy (EFT) for couples.
My goal is to provide focused treatment to help you feel better quickly. You can learn skills to reduce anxiety, mood swings, and negative life patterns. We may be a good match if you are experiencing grief or loss, relationship distress, anxiety, depression, or PTSD from trauma, or if you want to increase self-care. I also work well with children of alcoholics and caregivers (w/ a loved-one with dementia or illness.) Overall, I strive to help clients become more joyful and successful with themselves and with others. I welcome clients with a range of multicultural, gender and sexual identities, and I am committed to social justice.
(678) 931-9671 View (678) 931-9671

See more therapy options for Avondale Estates

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.