EMDR Therapists in College Park, GA

Photo of Kimya E Hodari, LPC, MAC, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimya E Hodari
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAC, CCTP
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30337  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Theoretically, my approach is a combination of humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and EMDR therapies.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, my goal is to provide a safe space to explore your inner thoughts, feelings and emotions. I believe we all have the answers to most of our problems. I am here to help facilitate the process of discovering those answers in a collaborative, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship. You will have the opportunity to gain personal insight, enhance inner strength and resilience as you move toward a satisfying state of wellbeing. For over 20 years I have had the privilege of working with people, multiply diagnosed with chronic illnesses, trauma, mental health and substance use disorders.
Theoretically, my approach is a combination of humanistic, psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral, and EMDR therapies.
As a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, my goal is to provide a safe space to explore your inner thoughts, feelings and emotions. I believe we all have the answers to most of our problems. I am here to help facilitate the process of discovering those answers in a collaborative, non-judgmental, therapeutic relationship. You will have the opportunity to gain personal insight, enhance inner strength and resilience as you move toward a satisfying state of wellbeing. For over 20 years I have had the privilege of working with people, multiply diagnosed with chronic illnesses, trauma, mental health and substance use disorders.
(404) 665-3502 View (404) 665-3502
Photo of Leslie Perez - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30337
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(404) 737-9225 x1 View (404) 737-9225 x1
Photo of Dr. Darleen Claire Wodzenski - Orchard Human Services, Inc, MS ESE, MA CMHC, PhD, NCC, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Orchard Human Services, Inc
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS ESE, MA CMHC, PhD, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
College Park, GA 30337
Our ideal client wants to make life better ... and sees the possibility of a better way of living for the self, child, family, relationship, education, wellbeing ... and is looking for specialized and focused support to create a better reality. Our ideal client KNOWS that healing is possible and that they deserve compassion and support to work through some of life's most difficult challenges.
Our ideal client wants to make life better ... and sees the possibility of a better way of living for the self, child, family, relationship, education, wellbeing ... and is looking for specialized and focused support to create a better reality. Our ideal client KNOWS that healing is possible and that they deserve compassion and support to work through some of life's most difficult challenges.
(678) 726-1407 View (678) 726-1407
Photo of Francine Bouyett, MS, LPC, NCC, CMAC, Counselor
Francine Bouyett
Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CMAC
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30337  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
It can be difficult to open up and talk about your life stressors to someone you don’t know. Sometimes we can feel unheard or alone and just need someone who can be a helping, nonjudgmental, and listening ear. The hardest part can be finding the words to express ourselves and process what can feel like a jumbled mess and you just need someone to help put the scattered puzzle pieces together to create a beautiful picture. Aristotle said it best, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” I can help with building coping skills, work on effective communication, self-expression, processing trauma/grief, and mindfulness.
It can be difficult to open up and talk about your life stressors to someone you don’t know. Sometimes we can feel unheard or alone and just need someone who can be a helping, nonjudgmental, and listening ear. The hardest part can be finding the words to express ourselves and process what can feel like a jumbled mess and you just need someone to help put the scattered puzzle pieces together to create a beautiful picture. Aristotle said it best, “Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom.” I can help with building coping skills, work on effective communication, self-expression, processing trauma/grief, and mindfulness.
(470) 444-4512 View (470) 444-4512
Photo of Darleen Claire Wodzenski, MA-ESE, MA-CMHC, QPPE, PhD LPC, NCC ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Darleen Claire Wodzenski
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA-ESE, MA-CMHC, QPPE, PhD LPC, NCC ACS
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30337
I love children of all ages - from 0 to 99 - and I am truly here to help. Are you dealing with Relationship issues? Mental health? Learning? Development? Getting along with siblings, peers, spouse? We know that humans must learn a precise set of skills & developmental capacities to thrive. When people experience an interruption in healthy social, emotional, moral, and attachment development, serious problems can arise throughout their lives. We provide integrated support for clients of all ages in a compassionate, loving, & safe environment.
I love children of all ages - from 0 to 99 - and I am truly here to help. Are you dealing with Relationship issues? Mental health? Learning? Development? Getting along with siblings, peers, spouse? We know that humans must learn a precise set of skills & developmental capacities to thrive. When people experience an interruption in healthy social, emotional, moral, and attachment development, serious problems can arise throughout their lives. We provide integrated support for clients of all ages in a compassionate, loving, & safe environment.
(678) 726-5375 View (678) 726-5375
Photo of Rashonda Clay-Douthit, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rashonda Clay-Douthit
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
College Park, GA 30337
My counseling style is warm, nurturing and supportive. I typically approach counseling from cognitive-behavioral, solution focused and system theory frameworks. However, our work together will be tailored to your unique and specific needs. You are the expert on your life! My role is to provide an objective, professional perspective while supporting successful achievement of your goals.
My counseling style is warm, nurturing and supportive. I typically approach counseling from cognitive-behavioral, solution focused and system theory frameworks. However, our work together will be tailored to your unique and specific needs. You are the expert on your life! My role is to provide an objective, professional perspective while supporting successful achievement of your goals.
(770) 872-6786 View (770) 872-6786
Photo of Felicia Zachery, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Felicia Zachery
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
College Park, GA 30349  (Online Only)
Hello! I help women, professionals, entertainers, veterans, and their families. Do you check one of these boxes? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced trauma, family discord, or a major life change? Do you lack self-confidence? Do you struggle to communicate in relationships? Are you experiencing career concerns? Have you been neglecting your activities of daily living? Do you feel unheard or unseen? Do you feel present but alone? I know you may be struggling but you do not have to suffer alone. I am here to journey alongside you! I will help you navigate a plan to enhance your quality of life.
Hello! I help women, professionals, entertainers, veterans, and their families. Do you check one of these boxes? Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed? Have you experienced trauma, family discord, or a major life change? Do you lack self-confidence? Do you struggle to communicate in relationships? Are you experiencing career concerns? Have you been neglecting your activities of daily living? Do you feel unheard or unseen? Do you feel present but alone? I know you may be struggling but you do not have to suffer alone. I am here to journey alongside you! I will help you navigate a plan to enhance your quality of life.
(678) 940-6355 View (678) 940-6355

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Aura Morris - Aura Morris - Trauma Therapy and EMDR Intensives, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aura Morris - Trauma Therapy and EMDR Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30303
I offer EMDR Intensives for targeted, efficient trauma work.
I believe every person can overcome the things that block them from leading a rich and fulfilling life.  I know that every person deserves and can achieve radical healing, and that it shouldn't take a lifetime to get there.  If you are ready to get to the root of your issues rather than just treat symptoms, you have come to the right place.  I use deep listening, EMDR, IFS/parts work, and other somatic modalities to help my clients achieve profound and lasting change.  I expect that you will see significant progress in the time we are working together, and if you don't, I will help you find someone who can offer that to you.
I offer EMDR Intensives for targeted, efficient trauma work.
I believe every person can overcome the things that block them from leading a rich and fulfilling life.  I know that every person deserves and can achieve radical healing, and that it shouldn't take a lifetime to get there.  If you are ready to get to the root of your issues rather than just treat symptoms, you have come to the right place.  I use deep listening, EMDR, IFS/parts work, and other somatic modalities to help my clients achieve profound and lasting change.  I expect that you will see significant progress in the time we are working together, and if you don't, I will help you find someone who can offer that to you.
(706) 666-4339 View (706) 666-4339
Photo of Camille Hankins, MS, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Camille Hankins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30316
I specialize in EMDR, a research-supported technique for reprocessing traumatic memories.
Working through trauma requires tremendous courage. No one wants to find themselves having to focus on healing the past, but once you realize that’s what you need to move forward, there’s no looking back. Whether you are dealing with triggers, flashbacks, nightmares, relationship issues, anxiety, chronic health problems, or simply struggling to stop thinking about unpleasant events from the past, trauma can affect us all differently. I have the experience and training to support you as you shift the patterns you have developed in response to adversity.
I specialize in EMDR, a research-supported technique for reprocessing traumatic memories.
Working through trauma requires tremendous courage. No one wants to find themselves having to focus on healing the past, but once you realize that’s what you need to move forward, there’s no looking back. Whether you are dealing with triggers, flashbacks, nightmares, relationship issues, anxiety, chronic health problems, or simply struggling to stop thinking about unpleasant events from the past, trauma can affect us all differently. I have the experience and training to support you as you shift the patterns you have developed in response to adversity.
(470) 274-3822 View (470) 274-3822
Photo of Dr. Taijah Davis, EdD, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Taijah Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331  (Online Only)
Real quick...take a second...close your eyes, breath deep, let it out slowly, open your eyes...okay. Welcome - my name is Dr. Taijah Davis, EdD and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Atlanta, Georgia and working statewide via telehealth. I work with adults 19-45 and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Additionally, I specialize in couples/marriage counseling using The Gottman Approach to address conflict management and issues with communication.
Real quick...take a second...close your eyes, breath deep, let it out slowly, open your eyes...okay. Welcome - my name is Dr. Taijah Davis, EdD and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor based in Atlanta, Georgia and working statewide via telehealth. I work with adults 19-45 and specialize in anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship problems using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Additionally, I specialize in couples/marriage counseling using The Gottman Approach to address conflict management and issues with communication.
(470) 863-1884 View (470) 863-1884
Photo of Kelly Cave, MA, LMFT, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Cave
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMFT, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30325
Is your life and your behavior impacted by events from the past? That's a very common side effect of trauma. Trauma impacts the ways in which we respond to every day stimulation and can shape our choices in healthy and unhealthy ways. According to research, more than half of men and women have experienced a trauma in their life time and 2 out of 5 women and 1 out of 6 men have experienced sexual trauma. You're not alone in this pain and I would love to help you through it. Using talk therapy combined with EMDR, we will build a safe place for you to process your hurt and be able to unwind what the brain has been holding on to.
Is your life and your behavior impacted by events from the past? That's a very common side effect of trauma. Trauma impacts the ways in which we respond to every day stimulation and can shape our choices in healthy and unhealthy ways. According to research, more than half of men and women have experienced a trauma in their life time and 2 out of 5 women and 1 out of 6 men have experienced sexual trauma. You're not alone in this pain and I would love to help you through it. Using talk therapy combined with EMDR, we will build a safe place for you to process your hurt and be able to unwind what the brain has been holding on to.
(404) 814-5041 View (404) 814-5041
Photo of Melania Soto Garcia, MA, LPC, NCC, CMHC, CAMS
Melania Soto Garcia
MA, LPC, NCC, CMHC, CAMS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30301
I am a bilingual (English - Spanish) therapist, EMDR training and Certified Anger Management Specialist. I’ve had experience with different mental health illnesses including, Anxiety, Depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My passion is to help people through transitions in life. I aim to be an unbiased guide that helps my clients and advocates for them in their journey towards self-actualization. My experience is helping individuals with relationships and family issues and I had helped teens in crisis reconcile with their families. I will enjoy the opportunity to get to know you and be added to your support system.
I am a bilingual (English - Spanish) therapist, EMDR training and Certified Anger Management Specialist. I’ve had experience with different mental health illnesses including, Anxiety, Depression, and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. My passion is to help people through transitions in life. I aim to be an unbiased guide that helps my clients and advocates for them in their journey towards self-actualization. My experience is helping individuals with relationships and family issues and I had helped teens in crisis reconcile with their families. I will enjoy the opportunity to get to know you and be added to your support system.
(678) 635-9216 View (678) 635-9216
Photo of Kim DeRamus Lareau, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim DeRamus Lareau
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, CPCS
Verified Verified
15 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30315
I utilize tools such as EMDR, narrative therapy, and other models.
Do you find yourself navigating through a transition or new season and you can't figure out why it feels so hard. Are you a hard worker, naturally a helper, and you just can't figure out how to move towards move of what you want in your life? I work with I work with high achieving young adults/ adults who are experiencing life transitions- such as going to college, becoming a parent, getting married, dating, work stress, grief & loss, disappointment, spiritual issues, & relationship/family issues. Do you want to understand ways that your past may be impacting your present?
I utilize tools such as EMDR, narrative therapy, and other models.
Do you find yourself navigating through a transition or new season and you can't figure out why it feels so hard. Are you a hard worker, naturally a helper, and you just can't figure out how to move towards move of what you want in your life? I work with I work with high achieving young adults/ adults who are experiencing life transitions- such as going to college, becoming a parent, getting married, dating, work stress, grief & loss, disappointment, spiritual issues, & relationship/family issues. Do you want to understand ways that your past may be impacting your present?
(404) 649-0741 View (404) 649-0741
Photo of Adrienne Graham, PhD, APC, NCC, Counselor
Adrienne Graham
Counselor, PhD, APC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30301
Additionally, I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR counselor.
Welcome to a safe and affirming space where healing and empowerment intersect. As a compassionate counselor and a doctoral candidate specializing in social justice, my mission is to provide nonjudgmental support for individuals navigating the complexities of life. If you're a survivor of trauma, whether it's sexual assault, domestic violence, or other challenges, I'm here to guide you on your journey toward healing and resilience. I recognize the unique intersections of identity that shape your experiences and understand the importance of creating a space where all aspects of your your identity are acknowledged and respected.
Additionally, I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR counselor.
Welcome to a safe and affirming space where healing and empowerment intersect. As a compassionate counselor and a doctoral candidate specializing in social justice, my mission is to provide nonjudgmental support for individuals navigating the complexities of life. If you're a survivor of trauma, whether it's sexual assault, domestic violence, or other challenges, I'm here to guide you on your journey toward healing and resilience. I recognize the unique intersections of identity that shape your experiences and understand the importance of creating a space where all aspects of your your identity are acknowledged and respected.
(706) 203-4094 View (706) 203-4094
Photo of Cheryl Raines Daugherty, MA, LPC, NCC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Cheryl Raines Daugherty
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30303
I am a multicultural, compassionate and non-judgmental licensed professional counselor. My work includes a client-centered approach as I realize no two individuals are alike. I work with families, couples and individuals. I help clients take stock of what is working and what can benefit from additional attention. I encourage clients to avoid self-defeating beliefs and escape criticism, blame and complaints that distort their mental and emotional wellbeing. As a trained EMDR therapist, I utilize my skill to support clients in identifying and addressing childhood and adult traumatic experiences.
I am a multicultural, compassionate and non-judgmental licensed professional counselor. My work includes a client-centered approach as I realize no two individuals are alike. I work with families, couples and individuals. I help clients take stock of what is working and what can benefit from additional attention. I encourage clients to avoid self-defeating beliefs and escape criticism, blame and complaints that distort their mental and emotional wellbeing. As a trained EMDR therapist, I utilize my skill to support clients in identifying and addressing childhood and adult traumatic experiences.
(678) 735-4581 View (678) 735-4581
Photo of Meschelle King, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Meschelle King
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30303  (Online Only)
I have been trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Hello! By looking for help online you have taken the first step to a deeper understanding of all the emotions you experience in your mind and body. Depression and anxiety can affect your physical well-being. I can help you learn the skills to manage your emotions in a less disruptive manner.
I have been trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) as well as Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Hello! By looking for help online you have taken the first step to a deeper understanding of all the emotions you experience in your mind and body. Depression and anxiety can affect your physical well-being. I can help you learn the skills to manage your emotions in a less disruptive manner.
(404) 227-4312 View (404) 227-4312
Photo of Alena Porter, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alena Porter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30304  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained.
Do you wish you had someone to talk to who won't judge you? Do you try to talk to your friends but they only half listen or push their own agenda? Are you hiding part of yourself because you are afraid of what people will think or say? Do you feel anxious or distracted? Does your mind race all the time? Do you feel sad or like you don't care anymore? Do you just wish someone could help you straighten out your thoughts? Do you have issues from your past that are affecting your present? Do you just wish you liked yourself more? Do you just want someone you can talk to about anything? Send me an email and hopefully we can work together
I am EMDR trained.
Do you wish you had someone to talk to who won't judge you? Do you try to talk to your friends but they only half listen or push their own agenda? Are you hiding part of yourself because you are afraid of what people will think or say? Do you feel anxious or distracted? Does your mind race all the time? Do you feel sad or like you don't care anymore? Do you just wish someone could help you straighten out your thoughts? Do you have issues from your past that are affecting your present? Do you just wish you liked yourself more? Do you just want someone you can talk to about anything? Send me an email and hopefully we can work together
(762) 583-8672 View (762) 583-8672
Photo of Amber Martin Corbi, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Martin Corbi
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30330
I regularly use polyvagal and attachment theory, IFS, expressive arts, EMDR, and mindful self compassion in session.
At times in life we all get stuck and venture to places in which change is necessary. I aim to create a safe and caring space where we (you and I) listen to what your thoughts, feelings and symptoms are telling you about your story. Those stories then serve as a roadmap for developing new skills, making new meanings, and rediscovering parts of yourself that may have been lost. My style is warm, compassionate and creative, and I will use my years of experience and intuiton to guide and walk alongside you in your courageous journey of healing.
I regularly use polyvagal and attachment theory, IFS, expressive arts, EMDR, and mindful self compassion in session.
At times in life we all get stuck and venture to places in which change is necessary. I aim to create a safe and caring space where we (you and I) listen to what your thoughts, feelings and symptoms are telling you about your story. Those stories then serve as a roadmap for developing new skills, making new meanings, and rediscovering parts of yourself that may have been lost. My style is warm, compassionate and creative, and I will use my years of experience and intuiton to guide and walk alongside you in your courageous journey of healing.
(706) 468-3082 View (706) 468-3082
Photo of Jermaine Nicholas Sullivan, MEd, LPC, CSAT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jermaine Nicholas Sullivan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30331
I am a certified sex addiction therapist (CSAT) and help individuals and couples impacted by trauma (EMDR Trained) and addiction find recovery and healing.
I am a trilingual (English, Spanish & Portuguese) therapist who honors each client, respecting who they are, where they've been and where they're going. My goal in serving clients is to create a safe therapeutic environment where healing and mutual learning can take place. I find that in this environment teens feel free to open up about their challenges, couples commit to making meaningful adjustments in their relationships and individual men and women act on their willingness to discuss the difficult problems they face.
I am a certified sex addiction therapist (CSAT) and help individuals and couples impacted by trauma (EMDR Trained) and addiction find recovery and healing.
I am a trilingual (English, Spanish & Portuguese) therapist who honors each client, respecting who they are, where they've been and where they're going. My goal in serving clients is to create a safe therapeutic environment where healing and mutual learning can take place. I find that in this environment teens feel free to open up about their challenges, couples commit to making meaningful adjustments in their relationships and individual men and women act on their willingness to discuss the difficult problems they face.
(770) 545-6918 View (770) 545-6918
Photo of Maranda Randolph, MSW, LCSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maranda Randolph
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30331
Waitlist for new clients
My treatment approach is integrative, and I tend to utilize more trauma-focused, IFS (Internal Family Systems), EMDR, somatic and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques but it depends on the person and what works best for them.
Sometimes the decision to engage in psychotherapy can be daunting and overwhelming. You may have been contemplating the idea of beginning therapy for some time or it may be that an experience or something in your life has triggered the decision to begin seeking support and/or a change. Many people begin therapy because they are experiencing sadness, depression, anxiety, grief/loss or can't articulate the reason but know something is different and they just don't feel "right". Old coping mechanisms aren't as effective and/or you seek a different unbiased perspective.
My treatment approach is integrative, and I tend to utilize more trauma-focused, IFS (Internal Family Systems), EMDR, somatic and cognitive behavioral therapy techniques but it depends on the person and what works best for them.
Sometimes the decision to engage in psychotherapy can be daunting and overwhelming. You may have been contemplating the idea of beginning therapy for some time or it may be that an experience or something in your life has triggered the decision to begin seeking support and/or a change. Many people begin therapy because they are experiencing sadness, depression, anxiety, grief/loss or can't articulate the reason but know something is different and they just don't feel "right". Old coping mechanisms aren't as effective and/or you seek a different unbiased perspective.
(678) 780-4278 View (678) 780-4278

See more therapy options for College Park

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.