EMDR Therapists in Tyrone, GA

Photo of Ariadne Crane, LMFT, LPC, NCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ariadne Crane
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Tyrone, GA 30290
I have specialty training in EMDR to address traumatic experiences and in Prepare/Enrich to provide premarital education/counseling and marriage enhancement.
I specialize in attachment issues in couple and family relationships. Relationship issues can lead to feeling disconnected, isolated or misunderstood and so my primary goal is to help my clients cultivate healthy relationships with their significant other, family members and friends. My clients benefit from learning to resolve conflicts, improve communication skills, work through unresolved childhood issues, change old behavior patterns and develop new ones, and strengthen their bonds with one another. Working through grief, loss, challenging life-transitions or spiritual matters are some of the many issues we can address together.
I have specialty training in EMDR to address traumatic experiences and in Prepare/Enrich to provide premarital education/counseling and marriage enhancement.
I specialize in attachment issues in couple and family relationships. Relationship issues can lead to feeling disconnected, isolated or misunderstood and so my primary goal is to help my clients cultivate healthy relationships with their significant other, family members and friends. My clients benefit from learning to resolve conflicts, improve communication skills, work through unresolved childhood issues, change old behavior patterns and develop new ones, and strengthen their bonds with one another. Working through grief, loss, challenging life-transitions or spiritual matters are some of the many issues we can address together.
(770) 766-5951 View (770) 766-5951
Photo of Elizabeth Roberts, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyrone, GA 30290
I have additional training and experience in family therapy, adolescent therapy, DBT, and EMDR for trauma, and I am happy to assist in your journey toward better health.
Whether looking to navigate through a difficult and challenging period in your life, or exploring areas of personal growth, finding the right therapist is an important step in your journey to healing and growth. My approach is to provide a safe environment for adolescents, adults, couples, and families to explore developmental and relationship issues and to build effective skills in order to live a more meaningful and balanced life.
I have additional training and experience in family therapy, adolescent therapy, DBT, and EMDR for trauma, and I am happy to assist in your journey toward better health.
Whether looking to navigate through a difficult and challenging period in your life, or exploring areas of personal growth, finding the right therapist is an important step in your journey to healing and growth. My approach is to provide a safe environment for adolescents, adults, couples, and families to explore developmental and relationship issues and to build effective skills in order to live a more meaningful and balanced life.
(678) 389-4933 View (678) 389-4933
Photo of Ruby Flowers-Aime, NCC, MS, LPC, CPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ruby Flowers-Aime
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, MS, LPC, CPCS
Verified Verified
Tyrone, GA 30290
I have specialized and trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR, DBT and Play therapy.
My entire career has been focused on children. As a child and adolescent specialist my passion is to help children to express their needs, wants and conflicts with themselves and their families using toys and play. Play is a child's natural language.
I have specialized and trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR, DBT and Play therapy.
My entire career has been focused on children. As a child and adolescent specialist my passion is to help children to express their needs, wants and conflicts with themselves and their families using toys and play. Play is a child's natural language.
(678) 890-2162 x05 View (678) 890-2162 x05
Photo of Meghan Coyle, LCSW, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Coyle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Tyrone, GA 30290  (Online Only)
Bringing creativity and a calm, positive energy, I integrate an eclectic blend of techniques from expressive arts, yoga, somatic and mindfulness based techniques, EMDR and CBT in my sessions with clients.
Are you tired of being told you’re too sensitive? Has beloved time spent alone in order to recharge from social encounters turned into isolation and a sense of disconnection? Do you long to feel reconnected with others, immersed in the world, fully engaged in life and living your purpose? Through a highly skilled integration of therapeutic techniques and the creative process, I assist high-achieving teens and adults get unstuck and gain access to a full-out, vibrant expression of their lives. If you’re ready to dive deep into your story, ask hard questions, and re-shape the narrative, then I’m here to help you reclaim your life.
Bringing creativity and a calm, positive energy, I integrate an eclectic blend of techniques from expressive arts, yoga, somatic and mindfulness based techniques, EMDR and CBT in my sessions with clients.
Are you tired of being told you’re too sensitive? Has beloved time spent alone in order to recharge from social encounters turned into isolation and a sense of disconnection? Do you long to feel reconnected with others, immersed in the world, fully engaged in life and living your purpose? Through a highly skilled integration of therapeutic techniques and the creative process, I assist high-achieving teens and adults get unstuck and gain access to a full-out, vibrant expression of their lives. If you’re ready to dive deep into your story, ask hard questions, and re-shape the narrative, then I’m here to help you reclaim your life.
(706) 550-6268 View (706) 550-6268
Photo of Julie Evans, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julie Evans
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tyrone, GA 30290
My training includes completing supervision to be certified in EMDR, that aids individuals in reprocessing traumatic experiences.
Hello there, my hope is that I can help you reach the quality of life you are seeking. My expertise is in individual and family counseling, with a specialization in child and adolescent psychology. I work with individuals, families, adolescents, and adults, addressing attachment trauma that can span a lifetime. Childhood wounds often manifest in present relationships, and I focus on helping foster individuals find emotional balance as these injuries can lead to depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.
My training includes completing supervision to be certified in EMDR, that aids individuals in reprocessing traumatic experiences.
Hello there, my hope is that I can help you reach the quality of life you are seeking. My expertise is in individual and family counseling, with a specialization in child and adolescent psychology. I work with individuals, families, adolescents, and adults, addressing attachment trauma that can span a lifetime. Childhood wounds often manifest in present relationships, and I focus on helping foster individuals find emotional balance as these injuries can lead to depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.
(678) 736-7522 View (678) 736-7522
Photo of Jennifer L. Foust, PhD, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer L. Foust
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tyrone, GA 30290
Does anxiety feel like it is hard to manage? Whether it's anxiety about your relationship, your sex life, your job, your social life, or your life in general, the symptoms are all too regular and familiar: racing heart, stomach churning, and feeling like you can't breathe just to name a few. If only you could just wish the anxiety away with logic. Your friends or partner tell you to just relax and stop overthinking, but you can't! Your mind won't listen. No matter how hard you try, you just can't get your mind to stop.
Does anxiety feel like it is hard to manage? Whether it's anxiety about your relationship, your sex life, your job, your social life, or your life in general, the symptoms are all too regular and familiar: racing heart, stomach churning, and feeling like you can't breathe just to name a few. If only you could just wish the anxiety away with logic. Your friends or partner tell you to just relax and stop overthinking, but you can't! Your mind won't listen. No matter how hard you try, you just can't get your mind to stop.
(470) 613-7245 View (470) 613-7245

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Angelique Soulakos, MA, LPC, NCC, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angelique Soulakos
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, RYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
I offer EMDR/IFS intensives, walk & talk sessions, and trauma-informed yoga! Whether you're looking to learn to manage your anxiety, improve present relationships, work through life transitions, learn more about how past experiences or relationships are affecting you now, or heal from traumatic experiences, I am here to walk alongside you. You are not alone. I offer a balance between a listening, empathetic ear and skills or solutions you can take with you. I create a warm, safe, and sometimes fun environment for those looking for support & growth. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed, you are in the right place.
I offer EMDR/IFS intensives, walk & talk sessions, and trauma-informed yoga! Whether you're looking to learn to manage your anxiety, improve present relationships, work through life transitions, learn more about how past experiences or relationships are affecting you now, or heal from traumatic experiences, I am here to walk alongside you. You are not alone. I offer a balance between a listening, empathetic ear and skills or solutions you can take with you. I create a warm, safe, and sometimes fun environment for those looking for support & growth. If you feel stuck, overwhelmed, anxious, or stressed, you are in the right place.
(678) 403-6066 View (678) 403-6066
Photo of Jemal Doute - Doute Counseling Services, LMFT, SAP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Doute Counseling Services
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, SAP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, GA 30214
I utilize techniques such as EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients overcome difficult memories in order that they may continue with their life.
I am a individual & couples counselor. I regard the entire family as the unit of treatment, and emphasize communication between individuals as a priority. I treat mental and emotional disorders from a systems perspective with optimal results as my goal. In regards to addiction... Addiction is no ones choice, but a symptom of greater issues. As a certified Substance Abuse Professional, my clients are faced with a realistic method to prevent relapse.
I utilize techniques such as EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help clients overcome difficult memories in order that they may continue with their life.
I am a individual & couples counselor. I regard the entire family as the unit of treatment, and emphasize communication between individuals as a priority. I treat mental and emotional disorders from a systems perspective with optimal results as my goal. In regards to addiction... Addiction is no ones choice, but a symptom of greater issues. As a certified Substance Abuse Professional, my clients are faced with a realistic method to prevent relapse.
(678) 619-5174 View (678) 619-5174
Photo of Anna Nance, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anna Nance
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
I use a variety of techniques ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR and creative techniques.
You are brave to have started the search for a therapist! I aim to meet you where you are in your journey and help you navigate your individual needs. Are you feeling overwhelmed with life right now? It helps to have someone to assist you in carrying that load.
I use a variety of techniques ranging from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR and creative techniques.
You are brave to have started the search for a therapist! I aim to meet you where you are in your journey and help you navigate your individual needs. Are you feeling overwhelmed with life right now? It helps to have someone to assist you in carrying that load.
(770) 285-0979 View (770) 285-0979
Photo of Laura Russell, LPC, NBCC, Counselor
Laura Russell
Counselor, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269  (Online Only)
I am a highly trained and experienced EMDR therapist.
I love working with emotionally intelligent people who need help working through anxiety, cancer diagnosis or traumas. So many times, I have heard my patients tell me that they wish that they had tried EMDR decades earlier because it truly helped them resolve many of their stressors in their current lives.
I am a highly trained and experienced EMDR therapist.
I love working with emotionally intelligent people who need help working through anxiety, cancer diagnosis or traumas. So many times, I have heard my patients tell me that they wish that they had tried EMDR decades earlier because it truly helped them resolve many of their stressors in their current lives.
(313) 332-7034 View (313) 332-7034
Photo of Jasmin Seapoe, LPC, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Jasmin Seapoe
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, GA 30214  (Online Only)
Additionally, I am trained in EMDR treatment, which allows clients to heal from trauma through bilateral stimulation.
It is my pleasure to help clients in their healing journeys. I have an Associate License in counseling years of experience treating couples and families affected by various Mental Health Diagnoses. My mission is to motivate and inspire clients to eradicate fear and live in freedom.
Additionally, I am trained in EMDR treatment, which allows clients to heal from trauma through bilateral stimulation.
It is my pleasure to help clients in their healing journeys. I have an Associate License in counseling years of experience treating couples and families affected by various Mental Health Diagnoses. My mission is to motivate and inspire clients to eradicate fear and live in freedom.
(404) 445-1334 View (404) 445-1334
Photo of Kristina Tucker, LPC, CYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristina Tucker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CYT
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, IFS/ego-state interventions, narrative therapy, self-compassion work, and education to help you best understand yourself, heal from past trauma, and live a life you love.
Feeling touched out, burnt-out, stressed out, and just plain overwhelmed- not enough sleep, you're coping in ways you'd rather not, struggling in relationships, and trying to remember who you are. "Mom-rage" and "mom-guilt" have become constant companions. Past experiences and/or traumas bubbling up and interfering with your interactions, emotions, and daily life. Maybe you are asking questions about your faith: how your hardest days make sense within your understanding of God, or questioning your experiences within the Church. You want to become a more present, engaged, calm yet still passionate and energetic version of yourself.
I utilize EMDR, IFS/ego-state interventions, narrative therapy, self-compassion work, and education to help you best understand yourself, heal from past trauma, and live a life you love.
Feeling touched out, burnt-out, stressed out, and just plain overwhelmed- not enough sleep, you're coping in ways you'd rather not, struggling in relationships, and trying to remember who you are. "Mom-rage" and "mom-guilt" have become constant companions. Past experiences and/or traumas bubbling up and interfering with your interactions, emotions, and daily life. Maybe you are asking questions about your faith: how your hardest days make sense within your understanding of God, or questioning your experiences within the Church. You want to become a more present, engaged, calm yet still passionate and energetic version of yourself.
(470) 397-1337 View (470) 397-1337
Photo of Ann Sheerin, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ann Sheerin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Using EMDR, we can work to resolve many difficulties that interfere with your ability to have the life you desire, reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship problems and other issues making life challenging.
I am passionate about equipping clients to live happier, healthier lives. This is accomplished by listening to each individual's unique story, creating a plan to address concerns, and walking alongside the client throughout the process. I have experience in helping clients address thought processes or behaviors that pose obstacles to wellbeing, equipping individuals for problem solving and interpersonal effectiveness, assisting clients with emotional regulation, and providing strategies for distress tolerance. My experience includes those who have been affected by trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.
Using EMDR, we can work to resolve many difficulties that interfere with your ability to have the life you desire, reducing symptoms of depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, post-traumatic stress disorder, relationship problems and other issues making life challenging.
I am passionate about equipping clients to live happier, healthier lives. This is accomplished by listening to each individual's unique story, creating a plan to address concerns, and walking alongside the client throughout the process. I have experience in helping clients address thought processes or behaviors that pose obstacles to wellbeing, equipping individuals for problem solving and interpersonal effectiveness, assisting clients with emotional regulation, and providing strategies for distress tolerance. My experience includes those who have been affected by trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, and relationship difficulties.
(678) 392-1539 View (678) 392-1539
Photo of Laura Jean Russell - The Wellness Counselors, LLC, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Wellness Counselors, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269
I am part of a small, distinguished group of people who have received a great deal of training as an EMDR therapist.
Are you struggling with anxiety and past or present traumas? Maybe you are also struggling with sleep deprivation, if you are, there is relief available to you. So many times, I have heard people say that they have spent a great deal of couch time elsewhere before they tried EMDR. To see the relief and victory that they achieve by using EMDR in a relatively short period of time is just wonderful. EMDR is hard work, but the benefits of doing this therapy can last a lifetime.
I am part of a small, distinguished group of people who have received a great deal of training as an EMDR therapist.
Are you struggling with anxiety and past or present traumas? Maybe you are also struggling with sleep deprivation, if you are, there is relief available to you. So many times, I have heard people say that they have spent a great deal of couch time elsewhere before they tried EMDR. To see the relief and victory that they achieve by using EMDR in a relatively short period of time is just wonderful. EMDR is hard work, but the benefits of doing this therapy can last a lifetime.
(770) 762-2268 View (770) 762-2268
Photo of Erick Sandstad - Sandstad Psychotherapy, EMDR, BSP & Hypnotherapy, LPC(GA), LPCC(KY, CMS, CHT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sandstad Psychotherapy, EMDR, BSP & Hypnotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC(GA), LPCC(KY, CMS, CHT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Working with integrating complementary methods at the neo-cortex: CBT, Reality therapy, IFS, Gestalt therapy, and sub-cortex: EMDR, Flash-EMDR, Deep Brain Reorienting, Brainspotting therapy, and clinical hypnotherapy.
I help individuals resolve various life challenges and issues, particularly treating panic disorder, anxiety, simple and complex trauma, PTSD, dissociation, depersonalization and derealization disorders, nightmare disorders, chronic pain, compulsive eating, and somatic symptom disorder. My specialty is the treatment of psychological, spiritual, emotional & psychosomatic conditions shaped by the experience of small and large traumatic life events.
Working with integrating complementary methods at the neo-cortex: CBT, Reality therapy, IFS, Gestalt therapy, and sub-cortex: EMDR, Flash-EMDR, Deep Brain Reorienting, Brainspotting therapy, and clinical hypnotherapy.
I help individuals resolve various life challenges and issues, particularly treating panic disorder, anxiety, simple and complex trauma, PTSD, dissociation, depersonalization and derealization disorders, nightmare disorders, chronic pain, compulsive eating, and somatic symptom disorder. My specialty is the treatment of psychological, spiritual, emotional & psychosomatic conditions shaped by the experience of small and large traumatic life events.
(770) 343-3648 View (770) 343-3648
Photo of Janice McLeroy, EdS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janice McLeroy
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Today's teens face different types of stressors than those to which we adults were exposed. Our culture, with its social media and overly committed lifestyle of busyness, sets our young people up for increased anxiety, depression, and a lack of genuine understanding of who they are. I am passionate about helping young people live life in wholeness. I see ages nine and up. My areas of specialty are ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, stress management, school-related issues, and family transitions. I'm trained in EMDR, a therapy technique for those who've experienced trauma.
Today's teens face different types of stressors than those to which we adults were exposed. Our culture, with its social media and overly committed lifestyle of busyness, sets our young people up for increased anxiety, depression, and a lack of genuine understanding of who they are. I am passionate about helping young people live life in wholeness. I see ages nine and up. My areas of specialty are ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, stress management, school-related issues, and family transitions. I'm trained in EMDR, a therapy technique for those who've experienced trauma.
(470) 823-7363 View (470) 823-7363
Photo of Margaret (Peggy) McBrayer, LCSW, LPC, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Margaret (Peggy) McBrayer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
CERTIFIED in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); Trained in Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy (EFT).
Marriage /relationships can be tough and even good marriages can be stressful. With my husband Tom, I work collaboratively with couples experiencing distress & disconnection in their relationships. We work as a husband-wife team and focus on helping couples rebuild & strengthen their emotional bond. We believe that strong marriages are the foundation for healthy families and believe that marriage is worth fighting for. We are committed to helping couples preserve, enhance and restore their relationships.
CERTIFIED in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR); Trained in Emotionally Focused Couple's Therapy (EFT).
Marriage /relationships can be tough and even good marriages can be stressful. With my husband Tom, I work collaboratively with couples experiencing distress & disconnection in their relationships. We work as a husband-wife team and focus on helping couples rebuild & strengthen their emotional bond. We believe that strong marriages are the foundation for healthy families and believe that marriage is worth fighting for. We are committed to helping couples preserve, enhance and restore their relationships.
(678) 681-9890 View (678) 681-9890
Photo of Diane Mitchell, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Diane Mitchell
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Peachtree City, GA 30269
She is also EMDR trained.
Diane’s greatest passion is helping people find their balance points, restoring the parts of life that feel most broken. Addressing a wide range of concerns, with clients from all walks of life, ethnicities, sexualities, and spiritual beliefs, Diane provides a safe space to figure out where you want to be regardless of where you are. She works primarily with couples and individuals, addressing a variety of concerns including anxiety & depression, attachment, life transitions, grief & loss, and relationship & boundary issues.
She is also EMDR trained.
Diane’s greatest passion is helping people find their balance points, restoring the parts of life that feel most broken. Addressing a wide range of concerns, with clients from all walks of life, ethnicities, sexualities, and spiritual beliefs, Diane provides a safe space to figure out where you want to be regardless of where you are. She works primarily with couples and individuals, addressing a variety of concerns including anxiety & depression, attachment, life transitions, grief & loss, and relationship & boundary issues.
(470) 943-2214 View (470) 943-2214
Photo of Kimberley Knox, LPC, NCC, Counselor
Kimberley Knox
Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, GA 30214
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 Jami Bever, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jami Bever
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, GA 30215
I am trained in evidenced based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), and Brainspotting to help you heal from the past and create your own future.
It’s midnight and you're up again, unable to sleep, the weight of the world on your shoulders. Worries about your kids, your career, your relationships. Feeling alone and wondering if you’re the only one who wrestles daily like this-fighting memories from the past, wounds that haven’t healed, hurts that continue to get in the way of life today..all while facing the uncertainty of new life transitions. Everyday feels like another battle and you’re tired, overwhelmed, burned out. You crave a break. You have things you want to do in your life, an idea of the person you want to be but, something just keeps getting in the way.
I am trained in evidenced based Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), and Brainspotting to help you heal from the past and create your own future.
It’s midnight and you're up again, unable to sleep, the weight of the world on your shoulders. Worries about your kids, your career, your relationships. Feeling alone and wondering if you’re the only one who wrestles daily like this-fighting memories from the past, wounds that haven’t healed, hurts that continue to get in the way of life today..all while facing the uncertainty of new life transitions. Everyday feels like another battle and you’re tired, overwhelmed, burned out. You crave a break. You have things you want to do in your life, an idea of the person you want to be but, something just keeps getting in the way.
(470) 465-9910 View (470) 465-9910
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.