EMDR Therapists in Madisonville, KY

Photo of Dr. Tay Robinson, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Tay Robinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, KY 42431
I am also EMDR trained.
I am dedicated to providing psychotherapy services to Black and Brown men and Veterans. As a Black veteran myself, I deeply understand the unique challenges and experiences faced by these populations and I am committed to offering a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. I understand the complexities of identity, racism, and societal pressures that contribute to mental health challenges within these communities. I have developed a deep understanding of the specific struggles faced by Veterans, such as PTSD, transition difficulties, and reintegration challenges.
I am also EMDR trained.
I am dedicated to providing psychotherapy services to Black and Brown men and Veterans. As a Black veteran myself, I deeply understand the unique challenges and experiences faced by these populations and I am committed to offering a safe and supportive space for healing and growth. I understand the complexities of identity, racism, and societal pressures that contribute to mental health challenges within these communities. I have developed a deep understanding of the specific struggles faced by Veterans, such as PTSD, transition difficulties, and reintegration challenges.
(317) 961-8834 View (317) 961-8834
Photo of More To Life Counseling And Amazing Life-Ky, MA, LPCC-S, Waiver, Counselor
More To Life Counseling And Amazing Life-Ky
Counselor, MA, LPCC-S, Waiver
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, KY 42431
You cannot possibly imagine all the wonderful things yet to happen". Hello! My name is Cathy Gamm and I'm the owner of More to Life Counseling & Amazing Life-KY. At More to Life, our goal is to provide you with support and individualized counseling to help you achieve whole body wellness. With compassion and validation, we work with each client to help them explore the root causes of their symptoms, build upon their own strengths, & achieve the goals they have set for themselves. With training in Integrative Mental Health, EMDR, CBT, and more, we bring a whole body perspective to the field of mental health.
You cannot possibly imagine all the wonderful things yet to happen". Hello! My name is Cathy Gamm and I'm the owner of More to Life Counseling & Amazing Life-KY. At More to Life, our goal is to provide you with support and individualized counseling to help you achieve whole body wellness. With compassion and validation, we work with each client to help them explore the root causes of their symptoms, build upon their own strengths, & achieve the goals they have set for themselves. With training in Integrative Mental Health, EMDR, CBT, and more, we bring a whole body perspective to the field of mental health.
(270) 974-4460 View (270) 974-4460
Photo of Shellie Cheirs - Caris Counseling & Behavioral Health Group, MEd, LPCC, DCC
Caris Counseling & Behavioral Health Group
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC, DCC
Verified Verified
Madisonville, KY 42431
We are a mental health and licensed substance treatment provider who works with clients to treat behavioral health issues with evidence based treatment options.
We are a mental health and licensed substance treatment provider who works with clients to treat behavioral health issues with evidence based treatment options.
(270) 350-4462 View (270) 350-4462
Photo of Rich Evans, MA, CRC, LPCA, Counselor
Rich Evans
Counselor, MA, CRC, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, KY 42431
I support teens, adults, and couples in uncovering and understanding their emotions. I want my clients to be able to take action to be a better partner, parent or person.
I support teens, adults, and couples in uncovering and understanding their emotions. I want my clients to be able to take action to be a better partner, parent or person.
(270) 279-0084 View (270) 279-0084
Photo of Tabitha Ramos, Tabitha Ramos, LCSW, MSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tabitha Ramos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Tabitha Ramos, LCSW, MSSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Madisonville, KY 42431  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping women who want to lead more fulfilling lives. Are you in a relationship that leaves you feeling unloved and uncared for? Perhaps you are a professional woman who feels unfulfilled or overstressed in your career? Maybe you are a busy mom who can never find time for herself. I can help. In addition to being a therapist, I have experienced being an over-functioner and being in relationships or careers that left me feeling stuck and unhappy. I found my way out of this, and I can help you start your path towards change.
I specialize in helping women who want to lead more fulfilling lives. Are you in a relationship that leaves you feeling unloved and uncared for? Perhaps you are a professional woman who feels unfulfilled or overstressed in your career? Maybe you are a busy mom who can never find time for herself. I can help. In addition to being a therapist, I have experienced being an over-functioner and being in relationships or careers that left me feeling stuck and unhappy. I found my way out of this, and I can help you start your path towards change.
(502) 317-2965 View (502) 317-2965

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Robert Franklin Evans, MFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robert Franklin Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Hanson, KY 42413
25 years of experience in mental health and addictions both adult, adolescent and the development of specific behavioral and cognitive skills helping parents regain control over their children's conduct, oppositional and defiant behaviors. I have also been providing services aimed at helping couples save their marriage and parents with with all aspects of child, adolescent and transitional age youth behaviors, including early onset of mental illness such as bi-polar, psychosis, anxiety and depression. In addition I can also provide professional training and provision of both Addictions and Mental Health formal "INTERVENTIONS" .
25 years of experience in mental health and addictions both adult, adolescent and the development of specific behavioral and cognitive skills helping parents regain control over their children's conduct, oppositional and defiant behaviors. I have also been providing services aimed at helping couples save their marriage and parents with with all aspects of child, adolescent and transitional age youth behaviors, including early onset of mental illness such as bi-polar, psychosis, anxiety and depression. In addition I can also provide professional training and provision of both Addictions and Mental Health formal "INTERVENTIONS" .
(530) 696-4748 View (530) 696-4748

Online Therapists

Photo of Sherri Bonchele Green - Women's Wellness Center, LLC, LPC-A
Women's Wellness Center, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
Hopkinsville, KY 42240
Interventions used are Somatic Attachment Therapy, Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Relaxation, and Meditation Therapies.
I, Sherri B. Green, LPC-A, work with women and their families in Kentucky. They are looking for a secure safe space for self-care and therapy. Women are the back bone of our families and if they are mentally healthy then the family has a good foundation for overall physical, mental and spiritual health.Sherri B. Green provides counseling/psychotherapy, nutrition, health, and wellness coaching and massage therapy.
Interventions used are Somatic Attachment Therapy, Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Exposure Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness, Relaxation, and Meditation Therapies.
I, Sherri B. Green, LPC-A, work with women and their families in Kentucky. They are looking for a secure safe space for self-care and therapy. Women are the back bone of our families and if they are mentally healthy then the family has a good foundation for overall physical, mental and spiritual health.Sherri B. Green provides counseling/psychotherapy, nutrition, health, and wellness coaching and massage therapy.
(270) 951-3293 View (270) 951-3293
Photo of Jana Faye Wilson, LCPC
Jana Faye Wilson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bowling Green, KY 42101
I am certified in Person Centered Approach, Grief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Race-Trauma and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Therapies.
Hello, My name is Jana Wilson. I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed in the state of Kentucky by the National Board of Professional Counselors to provide mental health counseling. I graduated from Mid-Continent University receiving a B.A. in Missions and Evangelism. I obtained my M.Ed., in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Murray State University, Ky. I have over 9 years of experience and extensive training in treating adolescent and adult behavior concerns. As well as, 4.5 years training and experience in suicide crisis prevention and intervention.
I am certified in Person Centered Approach, Grief Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Race-Trauma and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Therapies.
Hello, My name is Jana Wilson. I am Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) licensed in the state of Kentucky by the National Board of Professional Counselors to provide mental health counseling. I graduated from Mid-Continent University receiving a B.A. in Missions and Evangelism. I obtained my M.Ed., in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Murray State University, Ky. I have over 9 years of experience and extensive training in treating adolescent and adult behavior concerns. As well as, 4.5 years training and experience in suicide crisis prevention and intervention.
(859) 666-6715 View (859) 666-6715
Photo of Wynna Tabb, MEd, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Wynna Tabb
Marriage & Family Therapist, MEd, LMFT
Verified Verified
Elizabethtown, KY 42701
I can help! I am a therapist certified in trauma therapy and EMDR.
You've spent years dealing with the memories of the trauma. You're triggered all of the time, and it's hard to function daily. You have nightmares, sleep issues, or you just don't have the energy to get up. Your heart beats fast, you can't breathe, and you panic. You bury yourself in work, food, television, video games, or anything to avoid thinking about what happened to you. Sometimes you feel numb, like a zombie, and you space out. If someone walks up, you jump! You don't have to live this way! You can face the past, once and for all!
I can help! I am a therapist certified in trauma therapy and EMDR.
You've spent years dealing with the memories of the trauma. You're triggered all of the time, and it's hard to function daily. You have nightmares, sleep issues, or you just don't have the energy to get up. Your heart beats fast, you can't breathe, and you panic. You bury yourself in work, food, television, video games, or anything to avoid thinking about what happened to you. Sometimes you feel numb, like a zombie, and you space out. If someone walks up, you jump! You don't have to live this way! You can face the past, once and for all!
(270) 455-1493 View (270) 455-1493
Photo of Hope Hendrix - Hope Hendrix (Peace In Pearl's Heart Counseling), Hope Hendrix, MSW, LCSW , CCATP, CTMP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hope Hendrix (Peace In Pearl's Heart Counseling)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, Hope Hendrix, MSW, LCSW , CCATP, CTMP
Verified Verified
Vine Grove, KY 40175  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and certified in treating anxiety and trauma.
Do you wake up with just enough energy to make it through the day? Is your day filled with feelings of insecurities, sadness, fears, shame and anger? Other days, do you rely on your intuition to manage intense emotions and excessive worries? How about avoiding certain situations, lacking concentration, or keeping yourself excessively busy; possibly anxiety? Anxiety is inevitable. However, when your worries are persistent, disruptS your daily activities, and sabotages your relationships, it maybe time to seek support. I welcome the experience to see if I could be your source of support.
I am trained in EMDR and certified in treating anxiety and trauma.
Do you wake up with just enough energy to make it through the day? Is your day filled with feelings of insecurities, sadness, fears, shame and anger? Other days, do you rely on your intuition to manage intense emotions and excessive worries? How about avoiding certain situations, lacking concentration, or keeping yourself excessively busy; possibly anxiety? Anxiety is inevitable. However, when your worries are persistent, disruptS your daily activities, and sabotages your relationships, it maybe time to seek support. I welcome the experience to see if I could be your source of support.
(270) 713-1500 View (270) 713-1500
Photo of Gary Barker, MA, LPCC, CMHIMP
Gary Barker
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, LPCC, CMHIMP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Owensboro, KY 42303
I am certified to provide Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), an empirically-validated type of therapy designed to work with treatment-resistant trauma, depression, and anxiety.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor I consider therapy a path of change by way of a specific kind of partnership where clients feel understood, valued, and free to explore patterns of thoughts, emotions, conflicts, and relationships. My approach to counseling is a blend of theoretical concepts aimed at resolving conflicts and refining the necessary skills to meet life's challenges.
I am certified to provide Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), an empirically-validated type of therapy designed to work with treatment-resistant trauma, depression, and anxiety.
As a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor I consider therapy a path of change by way of a specific kind of partnership where clients feel understood, valued, and free to explore patterns of thoughts, emotions, conflicts, and relationships. My approach to counseling is a blend of theoretical concepts aimed at resolving conflicts and refining the necessary skills to meet life's challenges.
(270) 632-4615 View (270) 632-4615
Photo of LaTeisha Benson - Dove Healing Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dove Healing Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104
We offer personalized therapy for individuals, couples, and families using evidence-based approaches like CBT, EMDR, and mindfulness.
Overview: At Dove Healing Center, we provide a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health and wellness. Our dedicated team of licensed therapists and counselors specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges and achieve emotional well-being. Our Mission: Our mission is to offer a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. We are committed to empowering our clients to lead fulfilling and balanced lives through evidence-based therapeutic practices.
We offer personalized therapy for individuals, couples, and families using evidence-based approaches like CBT, EMDR, and mindfulness.
Overview: At Dove Healing Center, we provide a compassionate and holistic approach to mental health and wellness. Our dedicated team of licensed therapists and counselors specialize in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges and achieve emotional well-being. Our Mission: Our mission is to offer a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment where clients can explore their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. We are committed to empowering our clients to lead fulfilling and balanced lives through evidence-based therapeutic practices.
(270) 717-8153 View (270) 717-8153
Photo of Tammy Martin - Hillsong View Counseling, LCSW, LCSWC, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hillsong View Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCSWC, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence, KY 42450  (Online Only)
I provide a variety of therapy modalities including CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based, EMDR, psychodynamic and practical approaches to begin the change and healing process.
Welcome to the new you! Change can be hard but with the right support and direction in therapy, change is possible. I want to support you in your goals and believe that therapy is an opportunity for self reflection, growth, empowerment and healing. You are the expert in your experience and as your therapist, I am here to help you live a more fulfilling and healthy life. I strive to provide a positive therapy experience and encouraging and supportive. An ideal client is someone who is contemplating change but maybe isn't sure where to begin in the process.
I provide a variety of therapy modalities including CBT, DBT, mindfulness-based, EMDR, psychodynamic and practical approaches to begin the change and healing process.
Welcome to the new you! Change can be hard but with the right support and direction in therapy, change is possible. I want to support you in your goals and believe that therapy is an opportunity for self reflection, growth, empowerment and healing. You are the expert in your experience and as your therapist, I am here to help you live a more fulfilling and healthy life. I strive to provide a positive therapy experience and encouraging and supportive. An ideal client is someone who is contemplating change but maybe isn't sure where to begin in the process.
(928) 877-8725 View (928) 877-8725
Photo of Genevieve Postlethwait, EdS, LPCA, Counselor
Genevieve Postlethwait
Counselor, EdS, LPCA
Verified Verified
Paducah, KY 42001
Hi I’m Genevieve Postlethwait, Ed.S., LPCA. I'm a trauma-focused and EMDR-trained therapist based in western Kentucky. My aim is not to fix or heal you. It’s to help you find a place of wholeness where you feel seen, heard, and understood. From there, I'm here to help you heal yourself as only you can. I will accept and meet you exactly as you are, exactly as I am. By doing so I hope to serve as a mirror reflecting your inherent wisdom and power. My hope is that this inner knowing will help you live fully through the highs and lows unique to your life, as well as those we all face in this world.
Hi I’m Genevieve Postlethwait, Ed.S., LPCA. I'm a trauma-focused and EMDR-trained therapist based in western Kentucky. My aim is not to fix or heal you. It’s to help you find a place of wholeness where you feel seen, heard, and understood. From there, I'm here to help you heal yourself as only you can. I will accept and meet you exactly as you are, exactly as I am. By doing so I hope to serve as a mirror reflecting your inherent wisdom and power. My hope is that this inner knowing will help you live fully through the highs and lows unique to your life, as well as those we all face in this world.
(270) 638-8569 View (270) 638-8569
Photo of Tara Fields - T Fields Trauma Therapy and Training, MSW, LSCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
T Fields Trauma Therapy and Training
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSCSW
Verified Verified
Brandenburg, KY 40108
I am a trained and proficient in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and other trauma modalities that will provide you the relief and healing many of my patients seek out.
I focus on trauma initially because what I have found in over 6 years of work as a trauma therapist, is that so much of our present concerns and limitations is rooted in trauma exposure and history. This lends itself to unhealthy patterns of avoidance, hypervigilance/hyperarousal, disturbance in mood and cognitions. and being inundated with intrusions and flashbacks. Many patients that have struggled with years with anxiety and or depressive episodes really have suffered from trauma that has not yet been dealt with. T Fields Trauma Therapy is for you if this describes you! Please also ask about a new service: Medication Management!
I am a trained and proficient in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and other trauma modalities that will provide you the relief and healing many of my patients seek out.
I focus on trauma initially because what I have found in over 6 years of work as a trauma therapist, is that so much of our present concerns and limitations is rooted in trauma exposure and history. This lends itself to unhealthy patterns of avoidance, hypervigilance/hyperarousal, disturbance in mood and cognitions. and being inundated with intrusions and flashbacks. Many patients that have struggled with years with anxiety and or depressive episodes really have suffered from trauma that has not yet been dealt with. T Fields Trauma Therapy is for you if this describes you! Please also ask about a new service: Medication Management!
(785) 310-2849 View (785) 310-2849
Photo of Julie Boswell Johnson, MEd, LPCC, LPATA
Julie Boswell Johnson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MEd, LPCC, LPATA
Verified Verified
Owensboro, KY 42303
Waitlist for new clients
Specialities include: suicide prevention, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-partum issues, trauma and/or dissociative disorders (certified in EMDR), grief and loss, and guidance with common life stressors.
Learn from the past, live for today, and hope for tomorrow! I am passionate about helping people and would love to help you in your journey! Trust is the key ingredient to counseling and I know that often the hardest part is asking for help. My goal is to empower people, focusing on strengths to achieve full potential and wellness. I have over 17 years of experience counseling and am a LPCC and LPATA, earning my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from UK in 2002 and my Master's degree in Counseling with concentration in Art Therapy from UofL in 2005.
Specialities include: suicide prevention, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, post-partum issues, trauma and/or dissociative disorders (certified in EMDR), grief and loss, and guidance with common life stressors.
Learn from the past, live for today, and hope for tomorrow! I am passionate about helping people and would love to help you in your journey! Trust is the key ingredient to counseling and I know that often the hardest part is asking for help. My goal is to empower people, focusing on strengths to achieve full potential and wellness. I have over 17 years of experience counseling and am a LPCC and LPATA, earning my Bachelor's degree in Psychology from UK in 2002 and my Master's degree in Counseling with concentration in Art Therapy from UofL in 2005.
(270) 697-9512 View (270) 697-9512
Photo of Kayla Powell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Powell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Paducah, KY 42001
Waitlist for new clients
I have been trained in the following modalities: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, play therapy, and nature therapy.
I believe we all have the ability to guide the direction of our life towards a more genuine and authentic path no matter what we’ve experienced in the past. This new path can feel uncomfortable and uncertain and having someone there to walk alongside you can help make these steps feel more safe and secure. My experience is working with children through adults in their process of healing and growth.
I have been trained in the following modalities: Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, play therapy, and nature therapy.
I believe we all have the ability to guide the direction of our life towards a more genuine and authentic path no matter what we’ve experienced in the past. This new path can feel uncomfortable and uncertain and having someone there to walk alongside you can help make these steps feel more safe and secure. My experience is working with children through adults in their process of healing and growth.
(270) 713-7022 View (270) 713-7022
Photo of Lea Ann Lafave, LPCC-S, RPT, ICST, NCC , Counselor
Lea Ann Lafave
Counselor, LPCC-S, RPT, ICST, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Elizabethtown, KY 42701
Waitlist for new clients
I am certified in EMDR, Sandtray therapy, Brainspotting, Safe and and Sound Protocol.
Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed with life? Are your problems more than you can handle on your own? Are suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Anger, or other irritable moods? Do you feel stuck? Have you experienced a traumatic incident? Have you had any major life changes? Have you recently lost a loved one, friend, or relationship? Whatever your concerns are, you are not alone. I am committed to creating a safe and nonjudgmental atmosphere in which you can be supported in your efforts to change and heal.
I am certified in EMDR, Sandtray therapy, Brainspotting, Safe and and Sound Protocol.
Do you feel overwhelmed and stressed with life? Are your problems more than you can handle on your own? Are suffering from Anxiety, Depression, Anger, or other irritable moods? Do you feel stuck? Have you experienced a traumatic incident? Have you had any major life changes? Have you recently lost a loved one, friend, or relationship? Whatever your concerns are, you are not alone. I am committed to creating a safe and nonjudgmental atmosphere in which you can be supported in your efforts to change and heal.
(270) 975-3313 View (270) 975-3313
Photo of Allison Mack, MA, LPCC, NCC, Counselor
Allison Mack
Counselor, MA, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Paducah, KY 42001
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma informed therapist, trained in EMDR/CBT/Skills System/Solution-Focused therapy.
Your mental health matters, because you matter! I have worked with clients facing various issues from depression and anxiety, to trauma and PTSD. I do not believe therapy is one size fits all so I use various evidence based approaches to address concerns, and help guide clients on their journey to wellness. My goal is to meet my clients wherever they are on their journey, and help them find growth, healing, and renewed hope for the future.
I am a trauma informed therapist, trained in EMDR/CBT/Skills System/Solution-Focused therapy.
Your mental health matters, because you matter! I have worked with clients facing various issues from depression and anxiety, to trauma and PTSD. I do not believe therapy is one size fits all so I use various evidence based approaches to address concerns, and help guide clients on their journey to wellness. My goal is to meet my clients wherever they are on their journey, and help them find growth, healing, and renewed hope for the future.
(270) 449-0366 View (270) 449-0366
Photo of Shelby Kempf, LPCA, Counselor
Shelby Kempf
Counselor, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bowling Green, KY 42104
I am trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy but also use other modalities to help clients reach their goals.
I believe everyone has the right to great mental health treatment regardless of their age or demographic. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to seeing changes in their life, and apply skills learned in therapy to help them grow as their own individual person while also giving clients a safe space to work through their life experiences.
I am trained in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy but also use other modalities to help clients reach their goals.
I believe everyone has the right to great mental health treatment regardless of their age or demographic. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated to seeing changes in their life, and apply skills learned in therapy to help them grow as their own individual person while also giving clients a safe space to work through their life experiences.
(270) 975-2521 View (270) 975-2521

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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.