EMDR Therapists in Bogart, GA

Photo of Ashley Gottschak, MA, BCCC, Counselor
Ashley Gottschak
Counselor, MA, BCCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bogart, GA 30622
Many of my clients wish to use EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy) to aid them in their journey to healing and getting to their best life.
Do you feel stuck in the past? Have you tried everything else to find the healing you desperately desire but haven't gotten the results you need? Clients reach out to me many of them at a point close to giving up and thinking their brain, situation or circumstance will never change. It doesn't have to be this way. I incorporate many different techniques and tools to help get my clients on the path to healing and wholeness. Talk therapy just doesn't work. I do not offer talk therapy. Instead I customize a plan with my client, meeting them where they are, based on their individual needs.
Many of my clients wish to use EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy) to aid them in their journey to healing and getting to their best life.
Do you feel stuck in the past? Have you tried everything else to find the healing you desperately desire but haven't gotten the results you need? Clients reach out to me many of them at a point close to giving up and thinking their brain, situation or circumstance will never change. It doesn't have to be this way. I incorporate many different techniques and tools to help get my clients on the path to healing and wholeness. Talk therapy just doesn't work. I do not offer talk therapy. Instead I customize a plan with my client, meeting them where they are, based on their individual needs.
(770) 580-2914 View (770) 580-2914
Photo of Brianna Sterling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brianna Sterling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bogart, GA 30622
Brianna creatively utilizes her certifications in TF-CBT, EMDR, & BSP and Level 1 IFS Institute training collaboratively w/ her clients like a paint palette.
Brianna believes we all have an innate wisdom inside of us that’s always there & that we enter this world w/ more access to it than ever before. She also believes that we enter this world w/ unique parts that make up our complete whole - our psyche. These parts can be wonderfully unique & terrific attributes of our personality - our strengths. However, trauma can drive these parts of ourselves into extreme roles. Despite meaning well, they can create emotional & behavioral patterns that are seen as bad, shameful, or unwanted by those closest to us - leaving survivors feeling deeply broken, unworthy, & unfamiliar on a cellular level.
Brianna creatively utilizes her certifications in TF-CBT, EMDR, & BSP and Level 1 IFS Institute training collaboratively w/ her clients like a paint palette.
Brianna believes we all have an innate wisdom inside of us that’s always there & that we enter this world w/ more access to it than ever before. She also believes that we enter this world w/ unique parts that make up our complete whole - our psyche. These parts can be wonderfully unique & terrific attributes of our personality - our strengths. However, trauma can drive these parts of ourselves into extreme roles. Despite meaning well, they can create emotional & behavioral patterns that are seen as bad, shameful, or unwanted by those closest to us - leaving survivors feeling deeply broken, unworthy, & unfamiliar on a cellular level.
(678) 303-4145 View (678) 303-4145
Photo of Frances Crawford, LMSW
Frances Crawford
LMSW
Verified Verified
Bogart, GA 30622
I am trained in EMDR which is used to re-process traumatic memories and alleviate trauma symptoms.
Life is a journey and sometimes we need extra support along the way to learn different ways of navigating the journey. In my therapy practice, I aim to help those learn these techniques through listening, teaching, and coaching. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals from different walks of life. My goal has always been first and foremost to establish and cultivate a trusting relationship. Gaining a good understanding of an individual’s struggles and where they would like assistance is the best place to begin.
I am trained in EMDR which is used to re-process traumatic memories and alleviate trauma symptoms.
Life is a journey and sometimes we need extra support along the way to learn different ways of navigating the journey. In my therapy practice, I aim to help those learn these techniques through listening, teaching, and coaching. I have 20 years of experience working with individuals from different walks of life. My goal has always been first and foremost to establish and cultivate a trusting relationship. Gaining a good understanding of an individual’s struggles and where they would like assistance is the best place to begin.
(706) 873-5541 View (706) 873-5541
Photo of Ken D Miller, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ken D Miller
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Bogart, GA 30622
I also use EMDR for treating trauma.
You want to feel better and get better. I help you do that by empowering you with helpful tools grounded in evidence-based treatments. Ultimately, the goal for you is long-term emotional health. My thirty years of counseling experience and eleven years of clinical mental health counselor and life coach training allows me to help individuals, couples, and professional athletes work through their emotions in a safe, confidential, and professional setting.
I also use EMDR for treating trauma.
You want to feel better and get better. I help you do that by empowering you with helpful tools grounded in evidence-based treatments. Ultimately, the goal for you is long-term emotional health. My thirty years of counseling experience and eleven years of clinical mental health counselor and life coach training allows me to help individuals, couples, and professional athletes work through their emotions in a safe, confidential, and professional setting.
(470) 570-1322 View (470) 570-1322
Photo of Anna Wohleking - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Athens, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Athens
Counselor
Verified Verified
Bogart, GA 30622
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Staci Pfeiffer - The Banyan Tree Center, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Banyan Tree Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bogart, GA 30622
The Banyan Tree Center is an integrative counseling & wellness facility committed to a holistic approach to overall wellness. We provide professional, integrative and comprehensive services tailored to the individual needs of each person and family we serve. Our work is grounded in the most effective treatment approaches available, promoting lasting change and personal transformation. We believe that focusing on the whole person is the most effective way to produce lasting change. Therefore, we strive to provide a comprehensive selection of professional services in one convenient location.
The Banyan Tree Center is an integrative counseling & wellness facility committed to a holistic approach to overall wellness. We provide professional, integrative and comprehensive services tailored to the individual needs of each person and family we serve. Our work is grounded in the most effective treatment approaches available, promoting lasting change and personal transformation. We believe that focusing on the whole person is the most effective way to produce lasting change. Therefore, we strive to provide a comprehensive selection of professional services in one convenient location.
(706) 610-0845 View (706) 610-0845
Photo of Shea W. Squier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shea W. Squier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bogart, GA 30622
As a therapist, I appreciate the opportunities I am given to assist clients as they encounter and address uncertainty, disappointment, loss, and relationship challenges. My style is warm and nurturing, while also honest and authentic. I offer a safe and non-judgmental place for you to express your thoughts and feelings, explore options to resolve challenges you are facing, and support and encourage you as you face them. My experience and knowledge equip me to help people who are coping with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and parenting and relationship concerns.
As a therapist, I appreciate the opportunities I am given to assist clients as they encounter and address uncertainty, disappointment, loss, and relationship challenges. My style is warm and nurturing, while also honest and authentic. I offer a safe and non-judgmental place for you to express your thoughts and feelings, explore options to resolve challenges you are facing, and support and encourage you as you face them. My experience and knowledge equip me to help people who are coping with anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and parenting and relationship concerns.
(706) 550-9632 View (706) 550-9632

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jennifer Wood - Jennifer Wood Counseling LLC, LPC, BCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Wood Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
I am trained in Level 1 & 2 Gottman marriage therapy and EMDR.
I help people with managing relationships, involving trauma and childhood neglect. I also work with clients who do not have negative past experiences, but simply want to improve the relationships they have. I provide a warm environment for exploring areas of concern, and I am committed to hearing the spoken and the unspoken, as well as helping you make meaningful connections in your life. As a therapist who is Christian, I also enjoy making spiritual connections and giving encouragement to one's faith journey. I am also comfortable maintaining a safe secular space for you to share your struggles openly and honestly.
I am trained in Level 1 & 2 Gottman marriage therapy and EMDR.
I help people with managing relationships, involving trauma and childhood neglect. I also work with clients who do not have negative past experiences, but simply want to improve the relationships they have. I provide a warm environment for exploring areas of concern, and I am committed to hearing the spoken and the unspoken, as well as helping you make meaningful connections in your life. As a therapist who is Christian, I also enjoy making spiritual connections and giving encouragement to one's faith journey. I am also comfortable maintaining a safe secular space for you to share your struggles openly and honestly.
(706) 744-6221 View (706) 744-6221
Photo of Bethany E. Vash, LPC, NCC, TMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bethany E. Vash
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, TMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I am trained in EMDR therapy, and I enjoy working with couples and individuals through relationship issues, including those that relate to previous trauma. I also enjoy helping premarital couples prepare for the joys and challenges of approaching the marital relationship successfully and for the long-haul. I offer discounted rates to first responders, veterans, and their immediate families, a community near and dear to my heart.
I am trained in EMDR therapy, and I enjoy working with couples and individuals through relationship issues, including those that relate to previous trauma. I also enjoy helping premarital couples prepare for the joys and challenges of approaching the marital relationship successfully and for the long-haul. I offer discounted rates to first responders, veterans, and their immediate families, a community near and dear to my heart.
(706) 222-3963 View (706) 222-3963
Photo of Melinda D Hawley - Awareness To Wellness Counseling, Melinda Hawley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Awareness To Wellness Counseling, Melinda Hawley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30606
EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDRIA certified).
Please note: Wait list is currently full; this email is best for connecting. My interactive counseling approach is informed by deep respect for individuals and their strengths. We collaborate to help you move forward on your path to growth and change. Specialties include trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, stress, attachment, couple/partner interaction/ communication, family-of-origin issues (including substance abuse-related), and work challenges. Clients find relief from anxiety, obsessive thinking, compulsive behavior, interpersonal stress, career concerns and "feeling stuck." I can help you to effectively navigate stressful transitions.
EMDR-Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDRIA certified).
Please note: Wait list is currently full; this email is best for connecting. My interactive counseling approach is informed by deep respect for individuals and their strengths. We collaborate to help you move forward on your path to growth and change. Specialties include trauma, PTSD and C-PTSD, stress, attachment, couple/partner interaction/ communication, family-of-origin issues (including substance abuse-related), and work challenges. Clients find relief from anxiety, obsessive thinking, compulsive behavior, interpersonal stress, career concerns and "feeling stuck." I can help you to effectively navigate stressful transitions.
(706) 256-8269 View (706) 256-8269
Photo of Allia Siler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allia Siler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Athens, GA 30606
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 Claire Zimmerman - Counseling Associates for Well-Being
Counseling Associates for Well-Being
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
We have trauma specialists skilled in CBT, DBT, and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR) as well as somatic and other body based approaches.
Accepting new clients. Are you struggling to find balance, feel connected, lacking joy in your life? We can help. We are a group of skilled, caring therapists with a wealth of training and experience. Reach out if you need help with anxiety, relationship stress, worry, depression, loneliness, trauma or grief. We help people to improve their well-being and their relationships. Our therapists provide couples', individual, and family therapy, group counseling for adults 18+, We believe in a holistic approach to help you with your emotional and relational well-being. Seeing folks via telehealth or in one of our four locations.
We have trauma specialists skilled in CBT, DBT, and Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR) as well as somatic and other body based approaches.
Accepting new clients. Are you struggling to find balance, feel connected, lacking joy in your life? We can help. We are a group of skilled, caring therapists with a wealth of training and experience. Reach out if you need help with anxiety, relationship stress, worry, depression, loneliness, trauma or grief. We help people to improve their well-being and their relationships. Our therapists provide couples', individual, and family therapy, group counseling for adults 18+, We believe in a holistic approach to help you with your emotional and relational well-being. Seeing folks via telehealth or in one of our four locations.
(706) 425-8900 View (706) 425-8900
Photo of Devin Mathews, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Devin Mathews
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
I am EMDR trained.
Accepting new clients now. I am aware that life can be, and often is, challenging and hard to navigate with the cards that have been dealt to us. It can also be a grand adventure that leads us to find connection and peace and meaning. I offer a space in therapy to explore what is working for you and what isn’t on your journey to find those things. My goal is to help you build your own life worth living through connection and resilience.
I am EMDR trained.
Accepting new clients now. I am aware that life can be, and often is, challenging and hard to navigate with the cards that have been dealt to us. It can also be a grand adventure that leads us to find connection and peace and meaning. I offer a space in therapy to explore what is working for you and what isn’t on your journey to find those things. My goal is to help you build your own life worth living through connection and resilience.
(678) 935-9931 View (678) 935-9931
Photo of Betsy Mejias - The Abundant Life Institute Inc, LCSW, BCCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Abundant Life Institute Inc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
Telemental Virtual Counseling provides a range of services including individual, family, and marriage counseling, Christian counseling, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, pastoral counseling, substance use counseling, supervision for clinicians, continuing education courses, and psychoeducation.
Are you ready to conquer obstacles and accomplish your dreams? Abundant Life Institute is the answer! Our skilled team empowers individuals to unlock their full potential through a powerful mix of evidence-based counseling and scriptural truths. We cater to both physical and emotional well-being for maximum impact. Embrace a life of abundance in a nurturing, secure setting. Let us guide you towards your ultimate life. Get in touch today to embark on this transformative journey!Are you looking to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals? Look no further than Abundant Life Institute! Our expert team is here for you.
Telemental Virtual Counseling provides a range of services including individual, family, and marriage counseling, Christian counseling, EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, pastoral counseling, substance use counseling, supervision for clinicians, continuing education courses, and psychoeducation.
Are you ready to conquer obstacles and accomplish your dreams? Abundant Life Institute is the answer! Our skilled team empowers individuals to unlock their full potential through a powerful mix of evidence-based counseling and scriptural truths. We cater to both physical and emotional well-being for maximum impact. Embrace a life of abundance in a nurturing, secure setting. Let us guide you towards your ultimate life. Get in touch today to embark on this transformative journey!Are you looking to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals? Look no further than Abundant Life Institute! Our expert team is here for you.
(678) 944-7142 View (678) 944-7142
Photo of Pathways Transition Programs Inc. - Pathways Transition Programs, INC, MD, LPC, LCSW, LAPC, LMSW, Psychologist
Pathways Transition Programs, INC
Psychologist, MD, LPC, LCSW, LAPC, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
Pathways Transition Programs is a private mental health services provider for children and their families located in DECATUR, WATKINSVILLE, and LAWRENCEVILLE, GEORGIA. From our team of 100+ medical and counseling staff, we match clients to therapists best able to address specific needs. We offer a comprehensive array of assessment and therapy services to foster and support change/growth through healing the wounds of trauma and life challenges, and training/skill development to enhance coping skills and build resilience. We take great pride in being a resource for all individuals and families we serve.
Pathways Transition Programs is a private mental health services provider for children and their families located in DECATUR, WATKINSVILLE, and LAWRENCEVILLE, GEORGIA. From our team of 100+ medical and counseling staff, we match clients to therapists best able to address specific needs. We offer a comprehensive array of assessment and therapy services to foster and support change/growth through healing the wounds of trauma and life challenges, and training/skill development to enhance coping skills and build resilience. We take great pride in being a resource for all individuals and families we serve.
(404) 620-3438 View (404) 620-3438
Photo of Lindsey York, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey York
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
As you navigate the complex challenges of life, you may come to a place where you feel stuck or wonder how to proceed through a difficult time. Perhaps you are grieving a loss or burdened by the lingering effects of a traumatic experience. You might be feeling confused, exhausted, alone, unbalanced, or disconnected. Maybe you are looking for support, connection, and guidance in constructing a roadmap forward. This is where I can be of help. I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing anxiety and stress-related disorders; I have a particular interest in serving survivors of childhood abuse/neglect and sexual violence.
As you navigate the complex challenges of life, you may come to a place where you feel stuck or wonder how to proceed through a difficult time. Perhaps you are grieving a loss or burdened by the lingering effects of a traumatic experience. You might be feeling confused, exhausted, alone, unbalanced, or disconnected. Maybe you are looking for support, connection, and guidance in constructing a roadmap forward. This is where I can be of help. I specialize in working with adults who are experiencing anxiety and stress-related disorders; I have a particular interest in serving survivors of childhood abuse/neglect and sexual violence.
(706) 425-8900 x733 View (706) 425-8900 x733
Photo of Diana Burke, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Diana Burke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Watkinsville, GA 30677
Are you seeking support for yourself and your child due to a family crisis or disruption in your lives? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the behavioral, emotional and academic changes displayed by your child? I am a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents and parents encountering challenges due to divorce, loss, trauma academic, behavioral and psychiatric issues.
Are you seeking support for yourself and your child due to a family crisis or disruption in your lives? Are you feeling overwhelmed with the behavioral, emotional and academic changes displayed by your child? I am a licensed professional counselor with over 15 years experience working with children, adolescents and parents encountering challenges due to divorce, loss, trauma academic, behavioral and psychiatric issues.
(706) 508-4512 View (706) 508-4512
Photo of Beth Dean, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Beth Dean
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Watkinsville, GA 30677
"Why does anybody tell a story? It does indeed have something to do with faith. Faith that the universe has meaning, that our little human lives are not irrelevant, that what we choose or say or do matters, matters cosmically." L'Engle Join me in telling your story and we'll narrate your current stressors into a more meaningful life. I offer calm and focus as I engage clients and address their issues. Historically, I provided seven years of bereavement counseling. During that time I comprehended the nature of grief present in life's transitions in adjusting our expectations of ourselves and relationships.
"Why does anybody tell a story? It does indeed have something to do with faith. Faith that the universe has meaning, that our little human lives are not irrelevant, that what we choose or say or do matters, matters cosmically." L'Engle Join me in telling your story and we'll narrate your current stressors into a more meaningful life. I offer calm and focus as I engage clients and address their issues. Historically, I provided seven years of bereavement counseling. During that time I comprehended the nature of grief present in life's transitions in adjusting our expectations of ourselves and relationships.
(706) 666-1054 View (706) 666-1054
Photo of Joanne Quinn, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joanne Quinn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
Waitlist for new clients
Collaborating with clients to work towards the changes they desire has been a passion of mine for over 25 years. I enjoy working with people as part of their team of change, specifically dealing with grief and loss, adoption, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood instability, and life transitions.
Collaborating with clients to work towards the changes they desire has been a passion of mine for over 25 years. I enjoy working with people as part of their team of change, specifically dealing with grief and loss, adoption, trauma, depression, anxiety, mood instability, and life transitions.
(706) 425-8900 x741 View (706) 425-8900 x741
Photo of Julia N. Reed, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julia N. Reed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Athens, GA 30606
Not accepting new clients
My primary treatment approach is EMDR, and I can implement facets of IFS, CBT, and mindfulness-based practices.
I have primarily worked with adolescents and adults coping with Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and family members impacted by a loved ones addiction. In life we may have experiences where we did not cope effectively, and those memories just stick with us. Along with those memories are negative ideas about the self and uncomfortable emotions. Through the use of EMDR and trauma focused approaches, this "old stuff" can be resolved to create a healing lasting change.
My primary treatment approach is EMDR, and I can implement facets of IFS, CBT, and mindfulness-based practices.
I have primarily worked with adolescents and adults coping with Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, and family members impacted by a loved ones addiction. In life we may have experiences where we did not cope effectively, and those memories just stick with us. Along with those memories are negative ideas about the self and uncomfortable emotions. Through the use of EMDR and trauma focused approaches, this "old stuff" can be resolved to create a healing lasting change.
(404) 491-8990 View (404) 491-8990

See more therapy options for Bogart

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.