EMDR Therapists in Mableton, GA

Photo of Adrienne Marshall, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Adrienne Marshall
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Mableton, GA 30126
My chosen theoretical approaches are PREPARE/ENRICH, EFT, EMDR, Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy, and CBT.
My name is Adrienne L. Marshall, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus areas of practice are couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. The types of clients that I work with include those in need of couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. I am most comfortable treating those dealing with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional issues, and life transitions.
My chosen theoretical approaches are PREPARE/ENRICH, EFT, EMDR, Solutions-Focused Brief Therapy, and CBT.
My name is Adrienne L. Marshall, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I am also a Certified Life Coach. My approach to therapy is person-centered. My focus areas of practice are couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. The types of clients that I work with include those in need of couples/marriage counseling, trauma therapy, and therapy for both men's and women's issues. I am most comfortable treating those dealing with relationship issues, trauma, depression, anxiety, emotional issues, and life transitions.
(770) 637-0826 View (770) 637-0826
Photo of Phallon Foxworth, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Phallon Foxworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Mableton, GA 30126  (Online Only)
You also have the opportunity to engage in processing and healing from past traumas, guilt, anger, and anxiety through the research-backed approach of EMDR.
Being Black is beautiful. Especially being a Black woman. At the same time, it's only fair to acknowledge it comes with challenges that other groups don't face. Carrying our sadness, exhaustion, anxiety, and anger differently is more of a norm than it should be. Healing and taking time for ourselves aren't always a top priority. And sometimes, we just need a space to be ourselves. Not worry about performing. Or judgment. Wearing a mask.
You also have the opportunity to engage in processing and healing from past traumas, guilt, anger, and anxiety through the research-backed approach of EMDR.
Being Black is beautiful. Especially being a Black woman. At the same time, it's only fair to acknowledge it comes with challenges that other groups don't face. Carrying our sadness, exhaustion, anxiety, and anger differently is more of a norm than it should be. Healing and taking time for ourselves aren't always a top priority. And sometimes, we just need a space to be ourselves. Not worry about performing. Or judgment. Wearing a mask.
(470) 315-8065 View (470) 315-8065
Photo of Jessica Messler, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Messler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mableton, GA 30126  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Existential Therapy, as well as EMDR.
You need an ally. Someone that is invested in your life and wants to be a partner that can support you along your journey. As a therapist, I strive to be that ally. I believe that it is my job to meet you exactly where you are and help you move toward where you would like to be. Empowerment is imperative to my therapeutic approach, as I believe it serves as a foundation to processing complex topics such as emotional regulation, cognitive distortions, or relationship conflicts.
I also utilize Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Existential Therapy, as well as EMDR.
You need an ally. Someone that is invested in your life and wants to be a partner that can support you along your journey. As a therapist, I strive to be that ally. I believe that it is my job to meet you exactly where you are and help you move toward where you would like to be. Empowerment is imperative to my therapeutic approach, as I believe it serves as a foundation to processing complex topics such as emotional regulation, cognitive distortions, or relationship conflicts.
(470) 740-9611 View (470) 740-9611
Photo of Thomas C Burns - The Mableton Center for Behavior Services, PhD, Psychologist
The Mableton Center for Behavior Services
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Mableton, GA 30126
Over the several decades I have been in practice, I have enjoyed a large number of approaches to the different and complex problems that face people. Helping clients find and energize their own internal resources is not only inspiring, it is also exciting. Although many of my friends and colleagues have retired, I have not because there is nothing that I would rather do.
Over the several decades I have been in practice, I have enjoyed a large number of approaches to the different and complex problems that face people. Helping clients find and energize their own internal resources is not only inspiring, it is also exciting. Although many of my friends and colleagues have retired, I have not because there is nothing that I would rather do.
(770) 464-5149 View (770) 464-5149
Photo of Andrew Gordon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Gordon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mableton, GA 30126  (Online Only)
I truly saw the need for more mental health professionals in my community when I lost my father in 2006. Since that day, I began my journey of understanding the mind and how it works. We go through many major life transitions such as breakups, divorce, having children, new professions, loss of income, moving, pandemic stress and more. Most do not realize just how traumatic these seemingly “normal” events are to us at times.
I truly saw the need for more mental health professionals in my community when I lost my father in 2006. Since that day, I began my journey of understanding the mind and how it works. We go through many major life transitions such as breakups, divorce, having children, new professions, loss of income, moving, pandemic stress and more. Most do not realize just how traumatic these seemingly “normal” events are to us at times.
(678) 501-7559 View (678) 501-7559
Caudia Hills
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EASC
Not Verified Not Verified
Mableton, GA 30126
I am compassionate, spiritual professional therapist that has a desire of seeing others reach their purpose in life. I have a wealth of over 15 years experience providing individual, family, couple therapy to those who have depression, anxiety, endured trauma, relationship concerns, or life stressors with work, personal, or family. My clients age from 10 years old to 62. They are diverse in reference to gender, culture, race, spiritualty, and relational beliefs.
I am compassionate, spiritual professional therapist that has a desire of seeing others reach their purpose in life. I have a wealth of over 15 years experience providing individual, family, couple therapy to those who have depression, anxiety, endured trauma, relationship concerns, or life stressors with work, personal, or family. My clients age from 10 years old to 62. They are diverse in reference to gender, culture, race, spiritualty, and relational beliefs.
(678) 647-6637 View (678) 647-6637
Photo of LaQuanda Jefferson - Familial Bonds LLC Psychotherapy and Consultation, QLC, MAMFT, CANP
Familial Bonds LLC Psychotherapy and Consultation
QLC, MAMFT, CANP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mableton, GA 30126
Finding the right practitioner; when it comes to your emotional, mental, and spiritual health needs; can be challenging because you may not know what you should be considering during this search. Select a professional who is not only compassionate and passionate about their work and the people they serve, but also someone who knows the element of strength and perseverance personally. Stress can have a huge impact on the way we function in the various domains of our lives and this can sometimes send us down the rabbit hole of doubt. In order to truly accept yourself you must discover the elements of your becoming.
Finding the right practitioner; when it comes to your emotional, mental, and spiritual health needs; can be challenging because you may not know what you should be considering during this search. Select a professional who is not only compassionate and passionate about their work and the people they serve, but also someone who knows the element of strength and perseverance personally. Stress can have a huge impact on the way we function in the various domains of our lives and this can sometimes send us down the rabbit hole of doubt. In order to truly accept yourself you must discover the elements of your becoming.
(470) 280-3840 View (470) 280-3840

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sarah Azotea, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Azotea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I am intensively trained in DBT, CBT and EMDR.
My passion is working with people and bringing creativity to emotional expression and learning. I have over 10 years of professional experience assisting clients with coping with difficult emotions, increasing constructive communication, building positive relationships; and navigating life after traumatic or life changing events. It is my goal to meet you where you are in your journey and offer a safe and trusting environment for healing, growth, and learning.
I am intensively trained in DBT, CBT and EMDR.
My passion is working with people and bringing creativity to emotional expression and learning. I have over 10 years of professional experience assisting clients with coping with difficult emotions, increasing constructive communication, building positive relationships; and navigating life after traumatic or life changing events. It is my goal to meet you where you are in your journey and offer a safe and trusting environment for healing, growth, and learning.
(770) 738-4142 View (770) 738-4142
Photo of Mark L Jones, LAMFT, LAPC, NCC, Counselor
Mark L Jones
Counselor, LAMFT, LAPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I utilize proven theories and techniques that fit your needs, whether that’s EMDR therapy to reduce the impacts of trauma, Gottman Couples Therapy to improve relationships, CBT, or something else.
Most people trapped by unwanted thoughts or feelings struggle to find solutions for harmful automatic responses. I use research-based mental health counseling to provide clients personalized treatment so they gain freedom and flourish in pursuit of their goals. Whether you characterize your distress as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, disturbing memories, a challenging addiction, or something else, it would be my privilege to work with you. It might be uncomfortable to seek help, but imagine how much better life could be without your current problem?
I utilize proven theories and techniques that fit your needs, whether that’s EMDR therapy to reduce the impacts of trauma, Gottman Couples Therapy to improve relationships, CBT, or something else.
Most people trapped by unwanted thoughts or feelings struggle to find solutions for harmful automatic responses. I use research-based mental health counseling to provide clients personalized treatment so they gain freedom and flourish in pursuit of their goals. Whether you characterize your distress as anxiety, depression, relationship problems, disturbing memories, a challenging addiction, or something else, it would be my privilege to work with you. It might be uncomfortable to seek help, but imagine how much better life could be without your current problem?
(470) 276-8916 View (470) 276-8916
Photo of Marissa Herrera, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marissa Herrera
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080  (Online Only)
I prefer to use and focus on trans-theoretical models of solution-focused behavioral therapy, cognitive recovery-oriented therapy, motivational interviewing, EMDR, and embracing change therapy.
Hello, I'm Marissa Herrera. I'm excited to meet you and help you wherever you may find yourself on your therapy journey! My ideal client would be an individual who is ready and open in their healing journey. Potential issues could be related to sexual identity/orientation, depression, anxiety, ADHD, cultural, and interpersonal challenges, and difficulty with daily functioning. Their goals would be to decrease days associated with body dysphoria, sx related to depression/anxiety, etc; improving self-report of self-worth/self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, etc.
I prefer to use and focus on trans-theoretical models of solution-focused behavioral therapy, cognitive recovery-oriented therapy, motivational interviewing, EMDR, and embracing change therapy.
Hello, I'm Marissa Herrera. I'm excited to meet you and help you wherever you may find yourself on your therapy journey! My ideal client would be an individual who is ready and open in their healing journey. Potential issues could be related to sexual identity/orientation, depression, anxiety, ADHD, cultural, and interpersonal challenges, and difficulty with daily functioning. Their goals would be to decrease days associated with body dysphoria, sx related to depression/anxiety, etc; improving self-report of self-worth/self-esteem, interpersonal relationships, etc.
(470) 570-7696 View (470) 570-7696
Photo of Carrie Beck, APC, NCC, CFMHC, Counselor
Carrie Beck
Counselor, APC, NCC, CFMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30339
I have specialized training in EMDR, couples and sex therapy, somatic skills, functional health, and sensitive spiritual and cultural integration.
Compassion. Collaboration. Change. Seeking help takes courage, and choosing a therapist can be an empowering, but intimidating first step. I strive to cultivate a meaningful relationship with each of my clients, so it can feel safe to explore your story. Together we look for themes and identify next right steps. I specialize in helping clients who struggle with the effects of childhood and complex trauma, addiction, marital and intimacy issues, life transitions, boundary difficulties, and self-esteem. I enjoy working with men and women of all ages and stages of life who want to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
I have specialized training in EMDR, couples and sex therapy, somatic skills, functional health, and sensitive spiritual and cultural integration.
Compassion. Collaboration. Change. Seeking help takes courage, and choosing a therapist can be an empowering, but intimidating first step. I strive to cultivate a meaningful relationship with each of my clients, so it can feel safe to explore your story. Together we look for themes and identify next right steps. I specialize in helping clients who struggle with the effects of childhood and complex trauma, addiction, marital and intimacy issues, life transitions, boundary difficulties, and self-esteem. I enjoy working with men and women of all ages and stages of life who want to improve their relationships with themselves and others.
(678) 293-9047 View (678) 293-9047
Photo of Grace Domeck - Attento Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Grace Domeck - Attento Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the emotional distress resulting from disturbing life experiences.
So much of how we see ourselves and the world is based on the beliefs we hold closely, sometimes unknowingly. These beliefs are developed and emphasized over time, feeling more and more like solid truth. All too often, these beliefs are not only untrue, they are harmful to our mental health and perception of who we are and what we're worth. I am dedicated to walking with you as you come to identify, understand and work through those beliefs to move toward self-compassion and growth. I am passionate about helping you to grow in self-awareness surrounding your emotions, relationships and ability to make changes within yourself.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), a psychotherapy that enables people to heal from the emotional distress resulting from disturbing life experiences.
So much of how we see ourselves and the world is based on the beliefs we hold closely, sometimes unknowingly. These beliefs are developed and emphasized over time, feeling more and more like solid truth. All too often, these beliefs are not only untrue, they are harmful to our mental health and perception of who we are and what we're worth. I am dedicated to walking with you as you come to identify, understand and work through those beliefs to move toward self-compassion and growth. I am passionate about helping you to grow in self-awareness surrounding your emotions, relationships and ability to make changes within yourself.
(678) 619-0787 View (678) 619-0787
Photo of Danielle Flint, LPC, MAMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Flint
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MAMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I also offer EMDR to aid in integrating trauma.
I am deeply committed to supporting adolescents and adults as they navigate the complexities of anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and relationships. My mission is to guide my clients towards forging new, positive pathways and cultivating a sense of safety within themselves and in their interactions with others, ultimately enabling them to embrace their true selves with freedom and authenticity. Central to my practice is the creation of a nurturing, non-judgmental environment where clients feel secure to explore their vulnerabilities.
I also offer EMDR to aid in integrating trauma.
I am deeply committed to supporting adolescents and adults as they navigate the complexities of anxiety, depression, life transitions, trauma, and relationships. My mission is to guide my clients towards forging new, positive pathways and cultivating a sense of safety within themselves and in their interactions with others, ultimately enabling them to embrace their true selves with freedom and authenticity. Central to my practice is the creation of a nurturing, non-judgmental environment where clients feel secure to explore their vulnerabilities.
(678) 658-3456 View (678) 658-3456
Photo of Rebekah Ruth Evans, MS, LPC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebekah Ruth Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
I offer EMDR therapy to help lesson the fuel that a traumatic past can do for your every day life and emotions.
I do not believe in the statement "my past does not define me." It absolutely does! Everything you have experienced, both good and bad, is the reason why you are who you are today. Every single choice you make is made through the lenses of your life experiences. We run from labels that have been forced on us and grasp for ones that make us feel more... What would happen if you embraced your true self, who you really are inside and out, the good and the bad. Then sorted out your past to the best of its ability and took it from there day by day in the present for your future? I would be honored to walk this journey with you!
I offer EMDR therapy to help lesson the fuel that a traumatic past can do for your every day life and emotions.
I do not believe in the statement "my past does not define me." It absolutely does! Everything you have experienced, both good and bad, is the reason why you are who you are today. Every single choice you make is made through the lenses of your life experiences. We run from labels that have been forced on us and grasp for ones that make us feel more... What would happen if you embraced your true self, who you really are inside and out, the good and the bad. Then sorted out your past to the best of its ability and took it from there day by day in the present for your future? I would be honored to walk this journey with you!
(678) 252-5030 View (678) 252-5030
Photo of Kimberley Knox, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Kimberley Knox
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30006
My specialties include;Trauma-Informed care, EMDR, RO-DBT, and DBT.
If you struggle with not feeling seen or heard, not feeling like you belong, not knowing your true identity, holding on to generational trauma, experiencing any type of trauma, suppressing emotions, parenting struggles, feeling helpless and worthless, then I may be a good fit for you as a therapist. I focus on individual counseling for adults 18 and older. I also offer couples counseling as a Certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator. Wether I'm working with an individual, group, or a couple, my goal is to help you not only survive in this challenging life, but to thrive in it.
My specialties include;Trauma-Informed care, EMDR, RO-DBT, and DBT.
If you struggle with not feeling seen or heard, not feeling like you belong, not knowing your true identity, holding on to generational trauma, experiencing any type of trauma, suppressing emotions, parenting struggles, feeling helpless and worthless, then I may be a good fit for you as a therapist. I focus on individual counseling for adults 18 and older. I also offer couples counseling as a Certified Prepare/Enrich Facilitator. Wether I'm working with an individual, group, or a couple, my goal is to help you not only survive in this challenging life, but to thrive in it.
(404) 882-9874 View (404) 882-9874
Photo of Adrienne Moberg, LCSW, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrienne Moberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30064
Waitlist for new clients
Approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness as well as EMDR.
You may be feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or perhaps unsettled with yourself, your career, your relationships or life in general. My clients are usually looking to get "unstuck," gain insight, decrease stress, over come a traumatic experience, cope with difficult emotions and situations, improve their relationships and connect with their joy in life. I use a variety of approaches depending on individual needs, and realize that no singular approach is right for everyone. As my client, you are treated in a safe, warm atmosphere without judgment so you can feel free to be open and express yourself at your own pace.
Approaches include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness as well as EMDR.
You may be feeling anxious, depressed, overwhelmed, or perhaps unsettled with yourself, your career, your relationships or life in general. My clients are usually looking to get "unstuck," gain insight, decrease stress, over come a traumatic experience, cope with difficult emotions and situations, improve their relationships and connect with their joy in life. I use a variety of approaches depending on individual needs, and realize that no singular approach is right for everyone. As my client, you are treated in a safe, warm atmosphere without judgment so you can feel free to be open and express yourself at your own pace.
(678) 829-6373 View (678) 829-6373
Photo of Terah Sampler, MA, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terah Sampler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Marietta, GA 30067
I am trained in EMDR and specialize in complex trauma, traumatic grief, and spiritual trauma.
I am the Founder + Senior Clinician of Hopeology, a trauma-informed, faith-based counseling practice specializing in individuals, couples, and family counseling with a focus on full-bodied healing who have experienced anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. I am an LPC and a CPCS in Georgia, which allows me to care for clients and counselors in training. My clients love my heart for authentic community and my straightforward style of communication.
I am trained in EMDR and specialize in complex trauma, traumatic grief, and spiritual trauma.
I am the Founder + Senior Clinician of Hopeology, a trauma-informed, faith-based counseling practice specializing in individuals, couples, and family counseling with a focus on full-bodied healing who have experienced anxiety, depression, grief, and trauma. I am an LPC and a CPCS in Georgia, which allows me to care for clients and counselors in training. My clients love my heart for authentic community and my straightforward style of communication.
(678) 931-8354 View (678) 931-8354
Photo of Sarah S Pannell, LMFT, CEDS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sarah S Pannell
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS
Verified Verified
Atlanta, GA 30318  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, IFS and various other modalities.
Do you feel like no matter what you do, it's never enough? You try & try but no matter what others may see or say, underneath it, you're struggling? Maybe something happened & you can't move forward despite all your efforts to do so. Maybe you've been trying to conceive or you're struggling after baby arrives. Maybe you're struggling with your body or your relationship with food. Maybe life just feels overwhelming. You are NOT alone. The decision to enter therapy is a courageous one- a decision to get the support you need and deserve so you can move towards your goals and become more of who you authentically are!
I am trained in EMDR, IFS and various other modalities.
Do you feel like no matter what you do, it's never enough? You try & try but no matter what others may see or say, underneath it, you're struggling? Maybe something happened & you can't move forward despite all your efforts to do so. Maybe you've been trying to conceive or you're struggling after baby arrives. Maybe you're struggling with your body or your relationship with food. Maybe life just feels overwhelming. You are NOT alone. The decision to enter therapy is a courageous one- a decision to get the support you need and deserve so you can move towards your goals and become more of who you authentically are!
(678) 883-7539 View (678) 883-7539
Photo of Anne S. Mayfield, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anne S. Mayfield
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, CSAT, RRT-P
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30067
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction. Counseling is, for me, about witnessing someone else's personal story and providing a safe place to experience the whole range of emotions. I provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your issues. Together we will develop new strategies to help you deal with life's challenges so that you are better able to experience life's joys.
As a certified RRT Practitioner and a CSAT offering psychotherapy, hypnotherapy, EMDR, and Rapid Resolution Therapy, I specialize in healing trauma as well as in sex, love, and relationship addiction. Counseling is, for me, about witnessing someone else's personal story and providing a safe place to experience the whole range of emotions. I provide a nurturing, supportive, and nonjudgmental environment in which to explore your issues. Together we will develop new strategies to help you deal with life's challenges so that you are better able to experience life's joys.
(404) 982-4403 View (404) 982-4403
Photo of Colleen Walsh, MEd, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colleen Walsh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
Marietta, GA 30064
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma-focused clinician who incorporates Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Ego State work, psychodynamic principles, person-centered therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) into my work with clients.
Ready for a change? Navigating a difficult situation? Reaching out for help can be both scary and life-changing. I am here to assist people in healing what is holding them back.
I am a trauma-focused clinician who incorporates Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Ego State work, psychodynamic principles, person-centered therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) into my work with clients.
Ready for a change? Navigating a difficult situation? Reaching out for help can be both scary and life-changing. I am here to assist people in healing what is holding them back.
(770) 288-5773 View (770) 288-5773

See more therapy options for Mableton

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.