EMDR Therapists in Sugar Hill, GA

Photo of Karen S Barnes, MA, LMFT, LPC, CSAT, CCPS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen S Barnes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC, CSAT, CCPS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sugar Hill, GA 30518
I am a Certified EFT Therapist, have completed Level 2 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and am EMDR trained.
Perhaps along the way your relationship has changed. The connection you once had seems shallow and distant. It's hard to find your way back to one another. Whether you are experiencing loss, betrayal, sexual addiction, sexual difficulties, or general relationship struggles - you are not alone. It is normal to hurt - it is possible to heal. As a CSAT - Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, an APSATS trained CCPS - Certified Clinical Partner Specialist, Certified ERCEM Specialist, and Certified Clinical Disclosure Guide I will journey with you to establish trust, find your voice, and rebuild intimacy.
I am a Certified EFT Therapist, have completed Level 2 of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, and am EMDR trained.
Perhaps along the way your relationship has changed. The connection you once had seems shallow and distant. It's hard to find your way back to one another. Whether you are experiencing loss, betrayal, sexual addiction, sexual difficulties, or general relationship struggles - you are not alone. It is normal to hurt - it is possible to heal. As a CSAT - Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, an APSATS trained CCPS - Certified Clinical Partner Specialist, Certified ERCEM Specialist, and Certified Clinical Disclosure Guide I will journey with you to establish trust, find your voice, and rebuild intimacy.
(770) 629-8988 View (770) 629-8988
Photo of Linda Yeager Scott, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Yeager Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Hill, GA 30518  (Online Only)
I specialize in (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) EMDR (see my website for more details) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based on looking at how we think (cognition), how we feel (emotion) and how we act (behavior) all interacting together.
I believe people have a true need to be heard and not have their feelings judged. I will provide a safe space for you to be heard and partner with you as you let go of what no longer serves you. I had a wonderful therapist who “gave me permission” to feel what I felt, a safe place to process my pain without judgment, and encouragement to move forward in my life. That is my goal for my clients. I feel it is an honor when someone chooses me as their therapist. Therapy is an equal partnership between client and therapist and the process of counseling can be the catalyst to empower you to make healthy changes.
I specialize in (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) EMDR (see my website for more details) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) based on looking at how we think (cognition), how we feel (emotion) and how we act (behavior) all interacting together.
I believe people have a true need to be heard and not have their feelings judged. I will provide a safe space for you to be heard and partner with you as you let go of what no longer serves you. I had a wonderful therapist who “gave me permission” to feel what I felt, a safe place to process my pain without judgment, and encouragement to move forward in my life. That is my goal for my clients. I feel it is an honor when someone chooses me as their therapist. Therapy is an equal partnership between client and therapist and the process of counseling can be the catalyst to empower you to make healthy changes.
(404) 574-5715 View (404) 574-5715
Photo of Laura Brenes - Life Renewed Counseling, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Life Renewed Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sugar Hill, GA 30518  (Online Only)
We will work to address the whole person through methods such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing , EMDR, somatic work and spiritual integration.
I have a passion for stepping into the stories of those who have experienced a “life interruption”. When things happen we didn’t expect, when the disaster strikes… when we are left standing dumbfounded and in disbelief, we need support, someone who can walk with us through it all. It’s a complicated process and you can trust me to help you navigate through grieving your losses, healing from trauma, learning skills you may not have yet and the strength and confidence to rebuild a life you enjoy. My experience and expertise lend an effective and steady hand when “life interruptions” strike.
We will work to address the whole person through methods such as CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing , EMDR, somatic work and spiritual integration.
I have a passion for stepping into the stories of those who have experienced a “life interruption”. When things happen we didn’t expect, when the disaster strikes… when we are left standing dumbfounded and in disbelief, we need support, someone who can walk with us through it all. It’s a complicated process and you can trust me to help you navigate through grieving your losses, healing from trauma, learning skills you may not have yet and the strength and confidence to rebuild a life you enjoy. My experience and expertise lend an effective and steady hand when “life interruptions” strike.
(470) 237-8239 View (470) 237-8239
Photo of Martha Earley, Licensed Professional Counselor
Martha Earley
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Sugar Hill, GA 30518  (Online Only)
I am licensed in Georgia with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience with addiction, schizophrenia, anger issues and numerous other disorders. I am EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Expert as well as holding certification in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I also use a number of other counseling techniques, as I believe we can learn from each one.
I am licensed in Georgia with 11 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, trauma and abuse, bipolar disorder, & depression. I also have experience with addiction, schizophrenia, anger issues and numerous other disorders. I am EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Expert as well as holding certification in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT). I also use a number of other counseling techniques, as I believe we can learn from each one.
(470) 333-7967 View (470) 333-7967
Photo of Michelle Stangline, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Stangline
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Sugar Hill, GA 30518  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, EMDR Specialist, Trauma & Anxiety Specialist, Grief Specialist with 26 years of experience. My goal is to help you heal in a safe and creative way and teach you to become your own therapist so you don't have to be in therapy forever:) I offer two types of therapy sessions: Type 1 Therapy Sessions: The fast track to begin healing in three sessions with my: "The Three Three Session Approach to Healing" Session 1: Meet and get to know your future self who has all the answers and create your safe place and container in the first session.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist, EMDR Specialist, Trauma & Anxiety Specialist, Grief Specialist with 26 years of experience. My goal is to help you heal in a safe and creative way and teach you to become your own therapist so you don't have to be in therapy forever:) I offer two types of therapy sessions: Type 1 Therapy Sessions: The fast track to begin healing in three sessions with my: "The Three Three Session Approach to Healing" Session 1: Meet and get to know your future self who has all the answers and create your safe place and container in the first session.
(470) 516-7129 View (470) 516-7129
Photo of Anna Messano, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Messano
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Sugar Hill, GA 30518  (Online Only)
Anna Messano has been a licensed clinician for almost 20 years. During that time, she has worked with a wide variety of people struggling with addiction, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, and relational difficulties.
Anna Messano has been a licensed clinician for almost 20 years. During that time, she has worked with a wide variety of people struggling with addiction, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, and relational difficulties.
(470) 458-7989 View (470) 458-7989
Photo of Tomeki S Davis, MS, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tomeki S Davis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sugar Hill, GA 30518  (Online Only)
We often hear the phrase “In life, there are no guarantees.” However, that’s not completely accurate. One thing that is inevitable in life is that there will be change. Sometimes it is subtle, small in comparison to the grand scheme of the things we are facing. At other times, change hits us with the force of a ton of bricks, stopping us in our tracks and negatively impacting our daily lives. It is at these times that our mental, emotional, and physical health becomes susceptible to life's stressors and where we may suffer a decline in our quality of life. You don't have to face these times alone.
We often hear the phrase “In life, there are no guarantees.” However, that’s not completely accurate. One thing that is inevitable in life is that there will be change. Sometimes it is subtle, small in comparison to the grand scheme of the things we are facing. At other times, change hits us with the force of a ton of bricks, stopping us in our tracks and negatively impacting our daily lives. It is at these times that our mental, emotional, and physical health becomes susceptible to life's stressors and where we may suffer a decline in our quality of life. You don't have to face these times alone.
(404) 948-6150 View (404) 948-6150
Photo of Martha Dawson, Licensed Professional Counselor
Martha Dawson
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Sugar Hill, GA 30518  (Online Only)
My work with Clients is heart-centered, intuitive, wholistic, and healing. My intention is always healing. I help my Clients get To the Root of their depression, work through anxiety, and heal from past traumas. I humbly assist Clients in becoming the Best Versions of Themselves.
My work with Clients is heart-centered, intuitive, wholistic, and healing. My intention is always healing. I help my Clients get To the Root of their depression, work through anxiety, and heal from past traumas. I humbly assist Clients in becoming the Best Versions of Themselves.
(770) 525-8482 View (770) 525-8482
Photo of Melanie Ross, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Melanie Ross
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sugar Hill, GA 30518
Melanie is passionate about working with individuals on issues of grief and loss, career concerns, and relationship issues. She has years of experience working with teens and young adults around identity development, family and peer relationships, and anxiety related to school. Melanie understands the unique stressors faced by individuals working in the helping and medical professions, and she desires to assist these individuals develop the mindsets and strategies to prevent and manage compassion fatigue. Additionally, she enjoys helping premarital couples create a strong foundation for their relationship to flourish.
Melanie is passionate about working with individuals on issues of grief and loss, career concerns, and relationship issues. She has years of experience working with teens and young adults around identity development, family and peer relationships, and anxiety related to school. Melanie understands the unique stressors faced by individuals working in the helping and medical professions, and she desires to assist these individuals develop the mindsets and strategies to prevent and manage compassion fatigue. Additionally, she enjoys helping premarital couples create a strong foundation for their relationship to flourish.
(470) 276-8936 View (470) 276-8936

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lanny Ledford, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lanny Ledford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
I also have a certification in EMDR as well as TEAM Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have specialized training in Motivational Interviewing.
I specialize in both pornography & sexual addiction recovery along with trauma focused EMDR therapy to help with PTSD as well as betrayal trauma. I also effectively help individuals struggling with a variety of other issues like depression, anxiety, P.T.S.D., chemical dependency, codependence, relational issues, and grief. Over the past two decades I have helped individuals discover how to heal, recover, and reclaim their lives.
I also have a certification in EMDR as well as TEAM Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have specialized training in Motivational Interviewing.
I specialize in both pornography & sexual addiction recovery along with trauma focused EMDR therapy to help with PTSD as well as betrayal trauma. I also effectively help individuals struggling with a variety of other issues like depression, anxiety, P.T.S.D., chemical dependency, codependence, relational issues, and grief. Over the past two decades I have helped individuals discover how to heal, recover, and reclaim their lives.
(678) 374-1961 View (678) 374-1961
Photo of Zulaikha Straight, MA, LPC, NCC, NCIAC, NCLF, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zulaikha Straight
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, NCIAC, NCLF
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30519  (Online Only)
This may include EMDR, parts work, hypnotherapy, memory reconsolidation therapy, somatic therapy, or psychodynamic work.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Does the pain of past trauma impact your daily life? You may give too much and struggle to set healthy boundaries with romantic partners, family, and friends, leading to exhaustion and burnout. You may feel overwhelmed by your ever-growing to-do list. I help individuals find relief from anxiety, depression & ADHD, develop healthy relationships that fulfill their deepest needs, and create a career where they truly thrive. You’ll start feeling more confident, productive, and empowered as you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and choices, leading to greater joy and freedom.
This may include EMDR, parts work, hypnotherapy, memory reconsolidation therapy, somatic therapy, or psychodynamic work.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, or ADHD? Does the pain of past trauma impact your daily life? You may give too much and struggle to set healthy boundaries with romantic partners, family, and friends, leading to exhaustion and burnout. You may feel overwhelmed by your ever-growing to-do list. I help individuals find relief from anxiety, depression & ADHD, develop healthy relationships that fulfill their deepest needs, and create a career where they truly thrive. You’ll start feeling more confident, productive, and empowered as you gain insight into your thoughts, emotions, and choices, leading to greater joy and freedom.
(404) 905-3606 View (404) 905-3606
Photo of Melissa A Stanley, MS, LAPC, NCC, EMDR, Counselor
Melissa A Stanley
Counselor, MS, LAPC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
I am also EMDR trained.
Are you struggling with a past or present situation? Are you feeling sad and hopeless? Are you having trouble controlling your anxiety? Do you need help identifying what drives your thoughts and behaviors? Whatever your needs may be, you and I can work together to change how you respond. We will explore triggers and identify what drives your thoughts and feelings. I prefer a holistic approach with a treatment model explicitly designed for you.
I am also EMDR trained.
Are you struggling with a past or present situation? Are you feeling sad and hopeless? Are you having trouble controlling your anxiety? Do you need help identifying what drives your thoughts and behaviors? Whatever your needs may be, you and I can work together to change how you respond. We will explore triggers and identify what drives your thoughts and feelings. I prefer a holistic approach with a treatment model explicitly designed for you.
(470) 517-3562 View (470) 517-3562
Photo of Deanne Beaton, LPC, CSAT, EMDR, DBT, PIT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deanne Beaton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CSAT, EMDR, DBT, PIT
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30515
I have training and expertise in Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing trauma therapies and facilitate the healing of traumatic memories.
I work diligently to provide a safe place for individuals and couples seeking to address issues such as relationship dysfunction, depression, anxiety, addiction, codependency, and trauma, especially where these issues negatively impact a client's ability to maintain a sense of reverence for self or connection and intimacy with others. I discover with each client his or her strengths and ways to utilize these strengths to facilitate growth and healing. I combine a knowledge of psychotherapeutic strategies for healing with spiritual principles to weave a pathway for growth and healing for each precious soul.
I have training and expertise in Prolonged Exposure, EMDR, and Somatic Experiencing trauma therapies and facilitate the healing of traumatic memories.
I work diligently to provide a safe place for individuals and couples seeking to address issues such as relationship dysfunction, depression, anxiety, addiction, codependency, and trauma, especially where these issues negatively impact a client's ability to maintain a sense of reverence for self or connection and intimacy with others. I discover with each client his or her strengths and ways to utilize these strengths to facilitate growth and healing. I combine a knowledge of psychotherapeutic strategies for healing with spiritual principles to weave a pathway for growth and healing for each precious soul.
(678) 971-0176 View (678) 971-0176
Photo of Randall Overdorff, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Randall Overdorff
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518  (Online Only)
I use EMDR Therapy to help heal long term bad effects of trauma.
I want to help you achieve joy, purpose and meaning in your life. I want you to be empowered, to develop sovereignty as an individual; to have self confidence, acceptance of yourself as you are, to get in sync with your own character and destiny, to make the most of your life. I want to help you clarify and benefit from your spirituality. I can help improve empathy and communication to renew a sense of humor and harmony in relationships. I work to create a welcoming, safe environment to help clarify objectives for change and build strengths and resources to implement lasting solutions.
I use EMDR Therapy to help heal long term bad effects of trauma.
I want to help you achieve joy, purpose and meaning in your life. I want you to be empowered, to develop sovereignty as an individual; to have self confidence, acceptance of yourself as you are, to get in sync with your own character and destiny, to make the most of your life. I want to help you clarify and benefit from your spirituality. I can help improve empathy and communication to renew a sense of humor and harmony in relationships. I work to create a welcoming, safe environment to help clarify objectives for change and build strengths and resources to implement lasting solutions.
(770) 450-5046 View (770) 450-5046
Photo of Leigh Westergren, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leigh Westergren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Buford, GA 30518
I specialize in trauma-focused treatment and am trained in EMDR, which I utilize to explore and help resolve symptoms of trauma and/or PTSD.
I am an individual, family and couples' counselor licensed in Indiana and Georgia. I obtained a Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University and hold the licensure of Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, life stage adjustments, career challenges, PTSD, OCD and ADHD.
I specialize in trauma-focused treatment and am trained in EMDR, which I utilize to explore and help resolve symptoms of trauma and/or PTSD.
I am an individual, family and couples' counselor licensed in Indiana and Georgia. I obtained a Master’s degree in Social Work from Indiana University and hold the licensure of Clinical Social Worker. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, life stage adjustments, career challenges, PTSD, OCD and ADHD.
(470) 868-2330 View (470) 868-2330
Photo of Kathryn Miller, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathryn Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
I'm trained in EMDR and passionate about its ability to heal trauma and change negative core beliefs about ourselves in the world.
I believe life is about balance. Balancing our relationships, health, work, and hobbies. But sometimes, life can throw us off due to our experiences, relationships, and emotions. Together, we will take a holistic view of your life, what's working well, and where you might need support to help you regain equilibrium. Honoring yourself, your past experiences, and your needs can lead to the healing and growth you are looking for.
I'm trained in EMDR and passionate about its ability to heal trauma and change negative core beliefs about ourselves in the world.
I believe life is about balance. Balancing our relationships, health, work, and hobbies. But sometimes, life can throw us off due to our experiences, relationships, and emotions. Together, we will take a holistic view of your life, what's working well, and where you might need support to help you regain equilibrium. Honoring yourself, your past experiences, and your needs can lead to the healing and growth you are looking for.
(470) 410-2842 View (470) 410-2842
Photo of Alison Smith, MEd, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
I offer trauma-informed care in a safe, nurturing environment and can help facilitate your healing through the use of EMDR therapy.
Sometimes things just don’t go as we planned. Have you ever thought, “Why is my life so difficult?” Whether you've experienced trauma, are recovering from alcohol addiction, or battling anxiety and depression, I am dedicated to using evidence-based therapies to help you find your path to healing. We will work together so you can gain new skills, insights into your life, healing, and hope for the future.
I offer trauma-informed care in a safe, nurturing environment and can help facilitate your healing through the use of EMDR therapy.
Sometimes things just don’t go as we planned. Have you ever thought, “Why is my life so difficult?” Whether you've experienced trauma, are recovering from alcohol addiction, or battling anxiety and depression, I am dedicated to using evidence-based therapies to help you find your path to healing. We will work together so you can gain new skills, insights into your life, healing, and hope for the future.
(678) 995-5545 View (678) 995-5545
Photo of Vincentia Paul-Constantin, PhD, LPC, NCC
Vincentia Paul-Constantin
PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Are you in search of emotional and behavioral wellness? In need of a culturally competent clinician? Do you experience challenges at home, school, work or in your relationship? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts and displaying maladaptive and self-defeating behaviors? In English, French or Creole, Beautiful Dreamers works to ensure you are able to discover the challenges that affect you in living life to the fullest. We work from a resilience-based, cognitive, solution-focused, trauma-focused model to promote healthy thoughts, patterns, and behaviors. We are EMDR Trained, Certified in Anger Management and Reunification Therapy.
Are you in search of emotional and behavioral wellness? In need of a culturally competent clinician? Do you experience challenges at home, school, work or in your relationship? Are you experiencing intrusive thoughts and displaying maladaptive and self-defeating behaviors? In English, French or Creole, Beautiful Dreamers works to ensure you are able to discover the challenges that affect you in living life to the fullest. We work from a resilience-based, cognitive, solution-focused, trauma-focused model to promote healthy thoughts, patterns, and behaviors. We are EMDR Trained, Certified in Anger Management and Reunification Therapy.
(470) 635-5856 View (470) 635-5856
Photo of Robert Hunter - Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent, MD
Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Cent
MD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
We are also EMDR trained, Specialize in Anger Management and Reunification Therapy.
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
We are also EMDR trained, Specialize in Anger Management and Reunification Therapy.
At times, life presents challenges that impact the quality of our relationships and daily functioning. Counseling can help to ease the overwhelming feelings associated with life transitions, grief, depression, parenting, anxiety, anger, family, low self-esteem, and other interpersonal relationship concerns. At Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center, we offer comprehensive therapeutic, psychological, psychiatric, medication management, nursing service, and psycho-educational services. Whether individual, family or group, our mission is to provide a collaborative and encouraging environment that encourages personal growth. Our team of expert therapists possesses a variety of specialties and certifications that focus on the needs of the individual regardless age (including preschoolers) and area of struggle. Beautiful Dreamers Behavioral and Educational Center also provides comprehensive psychological educational evaluations for children and adults in the areas of intellectual functioning, academic, behavioral, vocational, and forensics. Our psycho-educational assessments are highly detailed and identify any underlying impairments affecting school performance.
(470) 215-1788 View (470) 215-1788
Photo of Debbie M Durand, PsyD, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Debbie M Durand
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Buford, GA 30518
Durand is an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist, and I am Nationally in Certified Clinical Hypnosis.
Dr. Durand helps clients desensitize traumas, challenge limiting beliefs and improve their relationships as well as reduce depression and anxiety. She has years of training and success in improving client's symptoms from PTSD and traumatic events through EMDR, CBT, Client Centered Therapy and Clinical Hypnosis.
Durand is an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist, and I am Nationally in Certified Clinical Hypnosis.
Dr. Durand helps clients desensitize traumas, challenge limiting beliefs and improve their relationships as well as reduce depression and anxiety. She has years of training and success in improving client's symptoms from PTSD and traumatic events through EMDR, CBT, Client Centered Therapy and Clinical Hypnosis.
(404) 381-8572 View (404) 381-8572

See more therapy options for Sugar Hill

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.