EMDR Therapists in Watkinsville, GA
Janet W. Beasley, LLC, LPC, Neuropsychotherapist
Licensed Professional Counselor, NPT-C
Verified Verified
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I also use a client-centered approach with various treatment modalities in addition to EMDR to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Relaxation and Stress Management Techniques, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Memory Reconsolidation in Trauma Therapy.
Are you experiencing trauma symptoms, grief, depression, anxiety or in a difficult transition ? We can encounter some tough times in our life and feel alone with difficulty seeing the path ahead. My approach includes coming alongside you in your journey as you move toward healing and listening to your needs. I offer current evidence-based treatments in my practice to promote healing of the body and mind to include trauma based methodology and neuropsychological interventions.
I also use a client-centered approach with various treatment modalities in addition to EMDR to include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Relaxation and Stress Management Techniques, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Memory Reconsolidation in Trauma Therapy.
Are you experiencing trauma symptoms, grief, depression, anxiety or in a difficult transition ? We can encounter some tough times in our life and feel alone with difficulty seeing the path ahead. My approach includes coming alongside you in your journey as you move toward healing and listening to your needs. I offer current evidence-based treatments in my practice to promote healing of the body and mind to include trauma based methodology and neuropsychological interventions.
Bethany E. Vash
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, TMHC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I am trained in EMDR therapy, and I enjoy working with couples and individuals through relationship issues, including those that relate to previous trauma. I also enjoy helping premarital couples prepare for the joys and challenges of approaching the marital relationship successfully and for the long-haul. I offer discounted rates to first responders, veterans, and their immediate families, a community near and dear to my heart.
I am trained in EMDR therapy, and I enjoy working with couples and individuals through relationship issues, including those that relate to previous trauma. I also enjoy helping premarital couples prepare for the joys and challenges of approaching the marital relationship successfully and for the long-haul. I offer discounted rates to first responders, veterans, and their immediate families, a community near and dear to my heart.
Katie Brick
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR, which can be helpful to use when words, memories, or emotions feel "stuck.
"Connection is why we're here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives."--Brene Brown. My relationship with clients is the most important aspect of my practice, and my goal is to provide a space for clients to feel heard, supported, and accepted while they navigate life's challenges. As an artist, I understand that words often fail to truly communicate the intensity of emotions that accompany tragedy and struggles in life. So, as a therapist, I enjoy accompanying talk therapy with creative, expressive, and mindfulness practices for increased insight and emotional expression to assist clients on their healing journey.
I am trained in EMDR, which can be helpful to use when words, memories, or emotions feel "stuck.
"Connection is why we're here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives."--Brene Brown. My relationship with clients is the most important aspect of my practice, and my goal is to provide a space for clients to feel heard, supported, and accepted while they navigate life's challenges. As an artist, I understand that words often fail to truly communicate the intensity of emotions that accompany tragedy and struggles in life. So, as a therapist, I enjoy accompanying talk therapy with creative, expressive, and mindfulness practices for increased insight and emotional expression to assist clients on their healing journey.
Catherine Trammell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a leading modality for treating PTSD.
Hello! Thanks for stopping by. My approach to therapy is creative, and connection-oriented. I work primarily with adolescents and adults seeking support for depression, anxiety, PTSD, family conflict, and life transitions. Your experience in therapy will be catered to your specific needs and goals to best work through any obstacles that may be hindering you from living a fulfilling life.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a leading modality for treating PTSD.
Hello! Thanks for stopping by. My approach to therapy is creative, and connection-oriented. I work primarily with adolescents and adults seeking support for depression, anxiety, PTSD, family conflict, and life transitions. Your experience in therapy will be catered to your specific needs and goals to best work through any obstacles that may be hindering you from living a fulfilling life.
Kwame Frimpong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I used Solution Focused therapy, the Bible if clients are open to it, CBT (communicative behavioral therapy), and EMDR eye-movement desensitization therapy) to help clients heal and assess their strengths to empower them to solve their problems.
Hi there, I’m Dr. Kwame! My name is Dr. Kwame Frimpong, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Atlanta, Georgia, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with Couples and those who are dating and specialize porn addiction, infidelity, building trust, intimacy, communication, and conflict resolution, using Prepare-enriched, Gottman method and symbols for relationship enrichments, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
I used Solution Focused therapy, the Bible if clients are open to it, CBT (communicative behavioral therapy), and EMDR eye-movement desensitization therapy) to help clients heal and assess their strengths to empower them to solve their problems.
Hi there, I’m Dr. Kwame! My name is Dr. Kwame Frimpong, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) based in Atlanta, Georgia, and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with Couples and those who are dating and specialize porn addiction, infidelity, building trust, intimacy, communication, and conflict resolution, using Prepare-enriched, Gottman method and symbols for relationship enrichments, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR to help my clients make progress and start feeling better.
Alice M Britt Deal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Watkinsville, GA 30677
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) a treatment for trauma or painful memories.
I value and respect the skill used to seek support, healing, and personal growth through therapy. It is my hope and belief that this shows in the relationships I build with clients. In my work, I partner with individuals to discover and reinforce their unique strengths while helping them uncover their potential for living fulfilling lives. I specialize in treating people with anxiety, depression, or repeated unhelpful behaviors. I also help people work through past trauma and difficult memories.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) a treatment for trauma or painful memories.
I value and respect the skill used to seek support, healing, and personal growth through therapy. It is my hope and belief that this shows in the relationships I build with clients. In my work, I partner with individuals to discover and reinforce their unique strengths while helping them uncover their potential for living fulfilling lives. I specialize in treating people with anxiety, depression, or repeated unhelpful behaviors. I also help people work through past trauma and difficult memories.
Teresa Cipriana Ruiz
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CFRC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
Waitlist for new clients
I hold degrees in Music Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, I am EMDR-Certified, am a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, and also a Certified First Responder Counselor.
Feelings of depression, fear, anxiety, confusion, anger, grief, trauma, and other struggles beset us all at times. I believe creating an environment where everyone can feel safe and heard is vital, and cultivating a therapeutic alliance to be alongside individuals as a nonjudgmental support in the journey to wholeness and independence. I listen for unique needs and preferences and utilize an eclectic and integrated approach to working with the whole person. With empathy and compassion I will also ask challenging questions to explore ideas, new ways of thinking and understanding, and guide intuitive discovery for meaningful change.
I hold degrees in Music Therapy and Mental Health Counseling, I am EMDR-Certified, am a Certified Clinical Trauma Specialist, and also a Certified First Responder Counselor.
Feelings of depression, fear, anxiety, confusion, anger, grief, trauma, and other struggles beset us all at times. I believe creating an environment where everyone can feel safe and heard is vital, and cultivating a therapeutic alliance to be alongside individuals as a nonjudgmental support in the journey to wholeness and independence. I listen for unique needs and preferences and utilize an eclectic and integrated approach to working with the whole person. With empathy and compassion I will also ask challenging questions to explore ideas, new ways of thinking and understanding, and guide intuitive discovery for meaningful change.
Hope Springs Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPCS, CAMS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
Our mission at Hope Springs is to 'Join You On Your Journey Towards Your Best Life Possible" There are many types of services that we offer in order to accomplish this goal. Our therapists are specially trained and licensed in a wide range of Professional Counseling, EMDR Therapy & Intensives, Comprehensive Evaulations, Hypnotherapy, Human Design, and Nature-Based Therapy; along with providing partnered and community based services such as Massage & Thai Yoga Therapy, Intentional Movement classes, Energy Work, Soundbath Meditations, and more.
Our mission at Hope Springs is to 'Join You On Your Journey Towards Your Best Life Possible" There are many types of services that we offer in order to accomplish this goal. Our therapists are specially trained and licensed in a wide range of Professional Counseling, EMDR Therapy & Intensives, Comprehensive Evaulations, Hypnotherapy, Human Design, and Nature-Based Therapy; along with providing partnered and community based services such as Massage & Thai Yoga Therapy, Intentional Movement classes, Energy Work, Soundbath Meditations, and more.
Alissa Darnell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I foundationally work from CBT and DBT perspectives, and am trained in EMDR, which is a specialized training addressing trauma and other concerns.
As a therapist, I have had the opportunity to provide support and encouragement to people as they face life challenges, and I have assisted them in their journeys toward growth and wellness. My approach is warm, compassionate, and genuine, and my focus is holistic, allowing all aspects of your wellness to be addressed. It is important to me to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment so you feel comfortable while working through your areas of concern. Through counseling and education, my passion is to empower you to be the best version of yourself.
I foundationally work from CBT and DBT perspectives, and am trained in EMDR, which is a specialized training addressing trauma and other concerns.
As a therapist, I have had the opportunity to provide support and encouragement to people as they face life challenges, and I have assisted them in their journeys toward growth and wellness. My approach is warm, compassionate, and genuine, and my focus is holistic, allowing all aspects of your wellness to be addressed. It is important to me to provide a safe, non-judgmental environment so you feel comfortable while working through your areas of concern. Through counseling and education, my passion is to empower you to be the best version of yourself.
Sydney Micheletti
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I've completed EMDR Basic Training and use this along with other evidence based practices to help my clients reach their goals.
Welcome! My approach to therapy starts with believing that change is in our control and, by working from that mentality, we can learn to accept & grow from what we cannot control in order to live our life in an more optimal way. Being in the LGBT community myself, some of my clients value having a therapist that can connect with that experience. In my therapy space, I value authenticity, safety, freedom to choose, connection to others as well as ourselves, & being challenged. My clients want a safe & comfortable space that can help them facilitate growth (that can sometimes be uncomfortable) & I love when I can provide that.
I've completed EMDR Basic Training and use this along with other evidence based practices to help my clients reach their goals.
Welcome! My approach to therapy starts with believing that change is in our control and, by working from that mentality, we can learn to accept & grow from what we cannot control in order to live our life in an more optimal way. Being in the LGBT community myself, some of my clients value having a therapist that can connect with that experience. In my therapy space, I value authenticity, safety, freedom to choose, connection to others as well as ourselves, & being challenged. My clients want a safe & comfortable space that can help them facilitate growth (that can sometimes be uncomfortable) & I love when I can provide that.
Having received specialized training in EMDR and Anxiety/OCD, I feel I have a unique perspective and understanding of how experience can alter our perceptions and how our innate drives to seek safety and security can sometimes go awry and leave us questioning some of the deepest beliefs we hold about ourselves, others, and the world.
The pursuit of well-being, health, meaning, joy, and peace is an on-going, confusing and complex journey. Fear, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, depression, flashbacks, and intrusive thoughts strip us from our agency, disconnect us from our deeper intentions, values, and priorities, and hijack our capacity to live fully enriched, meaningful lives. Making sense of these experiences is often fraught with shame, confusion, frustration, and can leave one feeling powerless and overwhelmed.
Having received specialized training in EMDR and Anxiety/OCD, I feel I have a unique perspective and understanding of how experience can alter our perceptions and how our innate drives to seek safety and security can sometimes go awry and leave us questioning some of the deepest beliefs we hold about ourselves, others, and the world.
The pursuit of well-being, health, meaning, joy, and peace is an on-going, confusing and complex journey. Fear, anxiety, dissociation, trauma, depression, flashbacks, and intrusive thoughts strip us from our agency, disconnect us from our deeper intentions, values, and priorities, and hijack our capacity to live fully enriched, meaningful lives. Making sense of these experiences is often fraught with shame, confusion, frustration, and can leave one feeling powerless and overwhelmed.
15 Second Videos
Kwame Frimpong
Charlie Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy Provider
Aura Morris - Trauma Therapy and EMDR Intensives
Jennifer Wood Counseling LLC
Julia N. Reed
Charlie Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy Provider
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I am trained in the following trauma interventions: EMDR, IFS, and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, founder of Kind Recovery, and one of the first certified psychedelic counselors in Georgia. I've been providing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy since 2019. I work with clients who have experienced mental injury or trauma and find themselves stuck in rigid thought or behavior patterns. These patterns might look like perfectionism, people-pleasing, substance misuse (addiction), anxiety, depression, avoidance, and more. I want you to know that it is possible to radically shift these behaviors with the right approach. I'll be with you as you learn to access the wisdom of your higher self.
I am trained in the following trauma interventions: EMDR, IFS, and Psychedelic Assisted Psychotherapy.
I am a licensed clinical social worker, founder of Kind Recovery, and one of the first certified psychedelic counselors in Georgia. I've been providing Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy since 2019. I work with clients who have experienced mental injury or trauma and find themselves stuck in rigid thought or behavior patterns. These patterns might look like perfectionism, people-pleasing, substance misuse (addiction), anxiety, depression, avoidance, and more. I want you to know that it is possible to radically shift these behaviors with the right approach. I'll be with you as you learn to access the wisdom of your higher self.
Many of my clients wish to use EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy) to aid them in their journey to healing and getting to their best life.
Do you feel stuck in the past? Have you tried everything else to find the healing you desperately desire but haven't gotten the results you need? Clients reach out to me many of them at a point close to giving up and thinking their brain, situation or circumstance will never change. It doesn't have to be this way. I incorporate many different techniques and tools to help get my clients on the path to healing and wholeness. Talk therapy just doesn't work. I do not offer talk therapy. Instead I customize a plan with my client, meeting them where they are, based on their individual needs.
Many of my clients wish to use EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy) to aid them in their journey to healing and getting to their best life.
Do you feel stuck in the past? Have you tried everything else to find the healing you desperately desire but haven't gotten the results you need? Clients reach out to me many of them at a point close to giving up and thinking their brain, situation or circumstance will never change. It doesn't have to be this way. I incorporate many different techniques and tools to help get my clients on the path to healing and wholeness. Talk therapy just doesn't work. I do not offer talk therapy. Instead I customize a plan with my client, meeting them where they are, based on their individual needs.
We specialize in treating anxiety, addiction, depression, adjustments, OCD, and post traumatic stress disorder. Our practice areas fall into the following categories: Generalist Practice, Children and Adolescents, Young Adults, Marriage and Family Therapy, Forensics, and PTSD/Veteran's Care. We are now offering psychiatric services via telehealth. The models of psychotherapy we use most often include ACT, CBT, CPT, EFT, EMDR, Gottman Therapy, Person Centered Counseling, Play Therapy, TF-CBT. We also offer diagnostic evaluations. Visit our website to learn more: www.gafamilycounseling.com.
We specialize in treating anxiety, addiction, depression, adjustments, OCD, and post traumatic stress disorder. Our practice areas fall into the following categories: Generalist Practice, Children and Adolescents, Young Adults, Marriage and Family Therapy, Forensics, and PTSD/Veteran's Care. We are now offering psychiatric services via telehealth. The models of psychotherapy we use most often include ACT, CBT, CPT, EFT, EMDR, Gottman Therapy, Person Centered Counseling, Play Therapy, TF-CBT. We also offer diagnostic evaluations. Visit our website to learn more: www.gafamilycounseling.com.
I work with people experiencing anxiety, OCD, trauma issues, emotional overwhelm, identity issues, and/or life transitions. My clients often experience cathartic "lightbulb" moments when we connect the dots between their life experiences, mental health symptoms, the brain, and the body. Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming and even scary, but you're not alone. Together we'll harness your unique strengths to help you navigate problems, gain confidence, and reduce stress. Some of the approaches I use include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, somatic work, DBT, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), art, and music.
I work with people experiencing anxiety, OCD, trauma issues, emotional overwhelm, identity issues, and/or life transitions. My clients often experience cathartic "lightbulb" moments when we connect the dots between their life experiences, mental health symptoms, the brain, and the body. Seeking therapy can feel overwhelming and even scary, but you're not alone. Together we'll harness your unique strengths to help you navigate problems, gain confidence, and reduce stress. Some of the approaches I use include cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, somatic work, DBT, exposure and response prevention therapy (ERP), art, and music.
Brianna Sterling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
Brianna creatively utilizes her certifications in TF-CBT, EMDR, & BSP and Level 1 IFS Institute training collaboratively w/ her clients like a paint palette.
Brianna believes we all have an innate wisdom inside of us that’s always there & that we enter this world w/ more access to it than ever before. She also believes that we enter this world w/ unique parts that make up our complete whole - our psyche. These parts can be wonderfully unique & terrific attributes of our personality - our strengths. However, trauma can drive these parts of ourselves into extreme roles. Despite meaning well, they can create emotional & behavioral patterns that are seen as bad, shameful, or unwanted by those closest to us - leaving survivors feeling deeply broken, unworthy, & unfamiliar on a cellular level.
Brianna creatively utilizes her certifications in TF-CBT, EMDR, & BSP and Level 1 IFS Institute training collaboratively w/ her clients like a paint palette.
Brianna believes we all have an innate wisdom inside of us that’s always there & that we enter this world w/ more access to it than ever before. She also believes that we enter this world w/ unique parts that make up our complete whole - our psyche. These parts can be wonderfully unique & terrific attributes of our personality - our strengths. However, trauma can drive these parts of ourselves into extreme roles. Despite meaning well, they can create emotional & behavioral patterns that are seen as bad, shameful, or unwanted by those closest to us - leaving survivors feeling deeply broken, unworthy, & unfamiliar on a cellular level.
Comprehensive Counseling Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CATODSW, EMDR-C, ACSW
Verified Verified
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I am Certified in EMDR, which is a specialized approach to treating trauma, panic, addictions, and other disorders.
Feeling angry, tired, unmotivated, or out of sorts? Seeking therapy from a qualified, Licensed therapist can assist in sorting through your distressing times. Many of us will seek counseling at some point, in our lives. Whether there has been a loss, trauma, problematic relationship, or stress, counseling can help optimize the emotional and social functioning and promote positive change.
I am Certified in EMDR, which is a specialized approach to treating trauma, panic, addictions, and other disorders.
Feeling angry, tired, unmotivated, or out of sorts? Seeking therapy from a qualified, Licensed therapist can assist in sorting through your distressing times. Many of us will seek counseling at some point, in our lives. Whether there has been a loss, trauma, problematic relationship, or stress, counseling can help optimize the emotional and social functioning and promote positive change.
Aura Morris - Trauma Therapy and EMDR Intensives
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I offer EMDR Intensives for targeted, efficient trauma work.
I believe every person can overcome the things that block them from leading a rich and fulfilling life. I know that every person deserves and can achieve radical healing, and that it shouldn't take a lifetime to get there. If you are ready to get to the root of your issues rather than just treat symptoms, you have come to the right place. I use deep listening, EMDR, IFS/parts work, and other somatic modalities to help my clients achieve profound and lasting change. I expect that you will see significant progress in the time we are working together, and if you don't, I will help you find someone who can offer that to you.
I offer EMDR Intensives for targeted, efficient trauma work.
I believe every person can overcome the things that block them from leading a rich and fulfilling life. I know that every person deserves and can achieve radical healing, and that it shouldn't take a lifetime to get there. If you are ready to get to the root of your issues rather than just treat symptoms, you have come to the right place. I use deep listening, EMDR, IFS/parts work, and other somatic modalities to help my clients achieve profound and lasting change. I expect that you will see significant progress in the time we are working together, and if you don't, I will help you find someone who can offer that to you.
Jennifer Wood Counseling LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, BCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Watkinsville, GA 30677
I am trained in Level 1 & 2 Gottman marriage therapy and EMDR.
I help people with managing relationships, involving trauma and childhood neglect. I also work with clients who do not have negative past experiences, but simply want to improve the relationships they have. I provide a warm environment for exploring areas of concern, and I am committed to hearing the spoken and the unspoken, as well as helping you make meaningful connections in your life. As a therapist who is Christian, I also enjoy making spiritual connections and giving encouragement to one's faith journey. I am also comfortable maintaining a safe secular space for you to share your struggles openly and honestly.
I am trained in Level 1 & 2 Gottman marriage therapy and EMDR.
I help people with managing relationships, involving trauma and childhood neglect. I also work with clients who do not have negative past experiences, but simply want to improve the relationships they have. I provide a warm environment for exploring areas of concern, and I am committed to hearing the spoken and the unspoken, as well as helping you make meaningful connections in your life. As a therapist who is Christian, I also enjoy making spiritual connections and giving encouragement to one's faith journey. I am also comfortable maintaining a safe secular space for you to share your struggles openly and honestly.
"Why does anybody tell a story? It does indeed have something to do with faith. Faith that the universe has meaning, that our little human lives are not irrelevant, that what we choose or say or do matters, matters cosmically." L'Engle Join me in telling your story and we'll narrate your current stressors into a more meaningful life. I offer calm and focus as I engage clients and address their issues. Historically, I provided seven years of bereavement counseling. During that time I comprehended the nature of grief present in life's transitions in adjusting our expectations of ourselves and relationships.
"Why does anybody tell a story? It does indeed have something to do with faith. Faith that the universe has meaning, that our little human lives are not irrelevant, that what we choose or say or do matters, matters cosmically." L'Engle Join me in telling your story and we'll narrate your current stressors into a more meaningful life. I offer calm and focus as I engage clients and address their issues. Historically, I provided seven years of bereavement counseling. During that time I comprehended the nature of grief present in life's transitions in adjusting our expectations of ourselves and relationships.
See more therapy options for Watkinsville
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.