EMDR Therapists in Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC

Photo of J. Michelle Daley, LCMHCA, Counselor
J. Michelle Daley
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
I am an EMDR Trained Clinician.
Therapy can feel like a scary step to take. Even more it can be a struggle to just share one's needs/stories. Which is why Diego and I work with each of our Clients in making that fear go away and assisting everyone in feeling comfortable and at ease. One of the first priorities I focus on is working with that fear, that uncomfortable feeling--It Gets Better. Diego is an amazing asset to this team as he will provide comfort to those who experience anxiety during therapy. He can provide decompression for those working through trauma or those experiencing sensory challenges.
I am an EMDR Trained Clinician.
Therapy can feel like a scary step to take. Even more it can be a struggle to just share one's needs/stories. Which is why Diego and I work with each of our Clients in making that fear go away and assisting everyone in feeling comfortable and at ease. One of the first priorities I focus on is working with that fear, that uncomfortable feeling--It Gets Better. Diego is an amazing asset to this team as he will provide comfort to those who experience anxiety during therapy. He can provide decompression for those working through trauma or those experiencing sensory challenges.
(980) 270-2140 View (980) 270-2140
Photo of Dr. Susan MacDonald Roddey, DMin, NCFBPPC, Pastoral Counselor
Dr. Susan MacDonald Roddey
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, NCFBPPC
Verified Verified
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
I am trained in EMDR, an evidence based trauma therapy.
It is miserable to feel stuck. Stuck in the past, stuck in moving forward, stuck in depression or anxiety. We want to feel a sense of purpose, and that we can live fully in the present and have a vision for the future, no matter our circumstances. There are a number of things that can make us feel stuck, such as trauma, unresolved grief, shame, broken relationships, a fear of failure, and spiritual struggles. Sometimes couples feel stuck in working through difficult issues and the resulting anger and hurt. We all go through these times in our lives and may come to a point when we realize that we need some help to move forward.
I am trained in EMDR, an evidence based trauma therapy.
It is miserable to feel stuck. Stuck in the past, stuck in moving forward, stuck in depression or anxiety. We want to feel a sense of purpose, and that we can live fully in the present and have a vision for the future, no matter our circumstances. There are a number of things that can make us feel stuck, such as trauma, unresolved grief, shame, broken relationships, a fear of failure, and spiritual struggles. Sometimes couples feel stuck in working through difficult issues and the resulting anger and hurt. We all go through these times in our lives and may come to a point when we realize that we need some help to move forward.
(704) 389-8702 View (704) 389-8702
Photo of Jessica McCall, MS, LMFT-S, CSAT, CPTT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jessica McCall
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, CSAT, CPTT, EMDR
Verified Verified
17 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and trauma therapist ( EMDR). I walk with clients through emotional healing, addiction recovery, and relationship repair. I help individuals and couples struggling with infidelity, betrayal, trust, intimacy, sex, process addictions (sex/porn, love, work, etc.), communication, and complex or attachment-oriented trauma. I am also Certified to work with premarital couples as a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and I am trained in Discernment Counseling to help couples considering divorce.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Supervisor (LMFT-S), Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and trauma therapist ( EMDR). I walk with clients through emotional healing, addiction recovery, and relationship repair. I help individuals and couples struggling with infidelity, betrayal, trust, intimacy, sex, process addictions (sex/porn, love, work, etc.), communication, and complex or attachment-oriented trauma. I am also Certified to work with premarital couples as a Prepare/Enrich Facilitator and I am trained in Discernment Counseling to help couples considering divorce.
(980) 255-5335 View (980) 255-5335
Photo of Robyn Nicholson, MA, LPC, NBCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Robyn Nicholson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
I find that using EMDR as part of the therapy process enhances and often accelerates the healing of PTSD symptoms.
I am delighted you found your way to my profile. My work is with adults from ages 25 and up. I specialize in the treatment of simple and complex trauma. I am trained in EMDR and also use a variety of trauma-informed interventions. I also have experience working with clients with chemical dependency. I work with clients experiencing marital difficulties, grief, anxiety and depression. Lastly, I work with clients experiencing spiritual difficulties and doubts in their faith walk.
I find that using EMDR as part of the therapy process enhances and often accelerates the healing of PTSD symptoms.
I am delighted you found your way to my profile. My work is with adults from ages 25 and up. I specialize in the treatment of simple and complex trauma. I am trained in EMDR and also use a variety of trauma-informed interventions. I also have experience working with clients with chemical dependency. I work with clients experiencing marital difficulties, grief, anxiety and depression. Lastly, I work with clients experiencing spiritual difficulties and doubts in their faith walk.
(803) 373-7080 View (803) 373-7080
Photo of Hallie Gardner, LCMHC, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hallie Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
I'm trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, Reiki and Hypnotherapy.
Feeling overwhelmed or dissatisfied with your life? Or maybe you'd like to heal and grow to your maximum potential. I support you in exploring ways to increase happiness and well-being while you integrate lasting, positive changes to decrease anxiety. Healing and growth support connection in your relationships with others, and most importantly, with yourself.
I'm trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, Reiki and Hypnotherapy.
Feeling overwhelmed or dissatisfied with your life? Or maybe you'd like to heal and grow to your maximum potential. I support you in exploring ways to increase happiness and well-being while you integrate lasting, positive changes to decrease anxiety. Healing and growth support connection in your relationships with others, and most importantly, with yourself.
(980) 217-6894 View (980) 217-6894
Photo of Tina Wehner, MTSC, LCMHCS, CSAT-S, CHFP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tina Wehner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MTSC, LCMHCS, CSAT-S, CHFP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
I currently hold the following Certifications - CSAT-S, CPTT-S, CCBRT (candidate), CHFP, and I am also trained in all levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, EMDR with FSAP, ERCEM, and skilled in 12-step therapy.
Are you interested in accelerating your treatment? I specialize and exclusively offer 3 Day Intensive Therapy in my practice. If you are interested in achieving 6 months of therapy in 3 Days and have a desire and willingness to dig deep, roll up your sleeves and work on your issues then our practice might be a good option for you. Hope & Freedom specializes in treating sexual addiction recovery therapy, betrayal trauma treatment for betrayed partners, and provides top quality couples recovery treatment for couples hoping to restore after betrayal. Our website has lots of helpful information and an application for consideration.
I currently hold the following Certifications - CSAT-S, CPTT-S, CCBRT (candidate), CHFP, and I am also trained in all levels of Gottman Method Couples Therapy, EMDR with FSAP, ERCEM, and skilled in 12-step therapy.
Are you interested in accelerating your treatment? I specialize and exclusively offer 3 Day Intensive Therapy in my practice. If you are interested in achieving 6 months of therapy in 3 Days and have a desire and willingness to dig deep, roll up your sleeves and work on your issues then our practice might be a good option for you. Hope & Freedom specializes in treating sexual addiction recovery therapy, betrayal trauma treatment for betrayed partners, and provides top quality couples recovery treatment for couples hoping to restore after betrayal. Our website has lots of helpful information and an application for consideration.
(980) 372-3255 View (980) 372-3255
Photo of Mary York, MSW, LCSWA
Mary York
LCSW Associate, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
I am also trained in EMDR and Attachment-Based Family Therapy.
In our therapeutic space, you will find warmth, understanding, and a non-judgmental atmosphere where your unique experiences are honored. I believe in the power of collaboration, and together, we'll create a safe haven where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. My approach is centered on you – your strengths, your resilience, and your aspirations. Through our work together, we'll navigate challenges, process emotions, and uncover the tools and coping skills that resonate with you. Each session is crafted with your individual needs in mind, ensuring a personalized and empowering experience.
I am also trained in EMDR and Attachment-Based Family Therapy.
In our therapeutic space, you will find warmth, understanding, and a non-judgmental atmosphere where your unique experiences are honored. I believe in the power of collaboration, and together, we'll create a safe haven where you can explore your thoughts and feelings. My approach is centered on you – your strengths, your resilience, and your aspirations. Through our work together, we'll navigate challenges, process emotions, and uncover the tools and coping skills that resonate with you. Each session is crafted with your individual needs in mind, ensuring a personalized and empowering experience.
(704) 426-3639 View (704) 426-3639
Photo of Elizabeth Adamovich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Adamovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
I have training in EMDR and specialize in helping people identify the inneer roadblocks that are getting in the way of building the life that they want to have.
Hey there! My name is Liz, I have multiple years experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. I believe that each of us has the capability to improve our mental health and wellbeing, and I'm here to help you make a plan to address the specific challenges you're facing.
I have training in EMDR and specialize in helping people identify the inneer roadblocks that are getting in the way of building the life that they want to have.
Hey there! My name is Liz, I have multiple years experience working with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, and mood disorders. I believe that each of us has the capability to improve our mental health and wellbeing, and I'm here to help you make a plan to address the specific challenges you're facing.
(704) 810-2378 View (704) 810-2378
Photo of Millie Drake, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Millie Drake
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
Additionally, I am trained in EMDR, which can be beneficial for those uninterested in traditional talk therapy.
I understand that navigating the hardships of life can be incredibly stressful. It's important to find a safe space where you can work through these struggles, and that is what I am here to help you do! The thought of starting therapy can be overwhelming and finding the right therapist can feel like a big challenge. My approach is warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental because I genuinely believe in creating a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I am dedicated to helping you achieve personal growth, develop coping skills, and build healthier relationships.
Additionally, I am trained in EMDR, which can be beneficial for those uninterested in traditional talk therapy.
I understand that navigating the hardships of life can be incredibly stressful. It's important to find a safe space where you can work through these struggles, and that is what I am here to help you do! The thought of starting therapy can be overwhelming and finding the right therapist can feel like a big challenge. My approach is warm, empathetic, and non-judgmental because I genuinely believe in creating a safe and supportive space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. I am dedicated to helping you achieve personal growth, develop coping skills, and build healthier relationships.
(980) 338-2918 View (980) 338-2918
Photo of Frank E Gantz - Dr. Gantz- Davidson Psychological Consulting, PC, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Dr. Gantz- Davidson Psychological Consulting, PC
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
"Since every person is unique, I use an integrative psychotherapy approach combining evidence based treatments including clinical hypnosis and EMDR as appropriate.
ALL SERVICE PROVIDED VIA VIDEO TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Gantz is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, achieved by only 4% of eligible psychologists. With over 40 years of mental health experience and 33 years as a licensed psychologist, he specializes in working with people dealing with anxiety issues (including test and performance anxiety), post-traumatic stress (including combat, accidents and assaults), depression & mood disorders, chronic pain, medical disorders, conversion disorders, interpersonal problems and more. See https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-e-gantz-psyd-abpp-93a944185/ or https://davidsonpsychology.wordpress.com/
"Since every person is unique, I use an integrative psychotherapy approach combining evidence based treatments including clinical hypnosis and EMDR as appropriate.
ALL SERVICE PROVIDED VIA VIDEO TELE-HEALTH. Dr. Gantz is a Board Certified Clinical Psychologist, achieved by only 4% of eligible psychologists. With over 40 years of mental health experience and 33 years as a licensed psychologist, he specializes in working with people dealing with anxiety issues (including test and performance anxiety), post-traumatic stress (including combat, accidents and assaults), depression & mood disorders, chronic pain, medical disorders, conversion disorders, interpersonal problems and more. See https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-e-gantz-psyd-abpp-93a944185/ or https://davidsonpsychology.wordpress.com/
(980) 243-0781 View (980) 243-0781
Photo of Cecilia Stonebraker, M Ed, LCAS, LCMHC, NCC, CCS, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Cecilia Stonebraker
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, M Ed, LCAS, LCMHC, NCC, CCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
I have additional training in trauma, EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy, victim advocacy for survivors of gender based violence, and in providing affirming and responsive treatment to BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and Neurodivergent populations.
Do you feel powerless, anxious, or depressed? Do you have trouble identifying goals, staying motivated, or feeling connected with friends or family? Do you use coping mechanisms that aren't always healthy to feel better? Do you want to change but don't know how or where to begin? You have options and choices; my job is to help you rediscover your potential and connect to your agency so you can make informed choices for how you want to live your life. You don't have to settle; you can break old patterns or habits and heal past traumas and hurts. We have lots of opportunities to make choices in life; are you ready to choose you?
I have additional training in trauma, EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy, victim advocacy for survivors of gender based violence, and in providing affirming and responsive treatment to BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and Neurodivergent populations.
Do you feel powerless, anxious, or depressed? Do you have trouble identifying goals, staying motivated, or feeling connected with friends or family? Do you use coping mechanisms that aren't always healthy to feel better? Do you want to change but don't know how or where to begin? You have options and choices; my job is to help you rediscover your potential and connect to your agency so you can make informed choices for how you want to live your life. You don't have to settle; you can break old patterns or habits and heal past traumas and hurts. We have lots of opportunities to make choices in life; are you ready to choose you?
(984) 203-7136 View (984) 203-7136
Photo of Amanda Adams - University Psychological Associates, P.A., Psychologist
University Psychological Associates, P.A.
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
CBT, EMDR.
We are a group of fifteen highly qualified, caring professionals dedicated to helping people achieve their goals for personal growth and emotional well-being. All of our clinicians are licensed professionals. We can usually get clients scheduled within a few days.
CBT, EMDR.
We are a group of fifteen highly qualified, caring professionals dedicated to helping people achieve their goals for personal growth and emotional well-being. All of our clinicians are licensed professionals. We can usually get clients scheduled within a few days.
(704) 312-4394 View (704) 312-4394
Photo of Rachel Phillips Tenny, MA, LPC, LCMHCS
Rachel Phillips Tenny
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28211
I have extensive training and experience in trauma including EMDR, SSP, and Embodied Recovery.
My practice as a clinician focuses on eating disorders/disordered eating, perinatal mental health, complex trauma, and dissociative disorders. Clients typically come to me wanting to heal their relationship with food and better understand their relationship with their body. I help my clients begin to notice the ways in which their past experiences impact their current experience of safety.
I have extensive training and experience in trauma including EMDR, SSP, and Embodied Recovery.
My practice as a clinician focuses on eating disorders/disordered eating, perinatal mental health, complex trauma, and dissociative disorders. Clients typically come to me wanting to heal their relationship with food and better understand their relationship with their body. I help my clients begin to notice the ways in which their past experiences impact their current experience of safety.
(704) 644-0991 View (704) 644-0991
Photo of John A Burns - Montgomery Counseling Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Montgomery Counseling Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
I work primarily with those who are battling depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If this is you, you are not alone. Estimates of those who fight this battle every day are as high as 40 million or 18.1% of adults annually.
I work primarily with those who are battling depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). If this is you, you are not alone. Estimates of those who fight this battle every day are as high as 40 million or 18.1% of adults annually.
(980) 208-1322 View (980) 208-1322
Photo of Carrie Barto, LCMHC, NCC
Carrie Barto
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
Waitlist for new clients
Life is always changing direction keeping us in a constant state of transition. At times these changes can become overwhelming. Some of these changes include death of a loved one, relationship status, identity issues, and unresolved childhood pain. You don't need to struggle through these hard times on your own. You deserve support, understanding, and care in a non-judgmental environment. You don't have to be alone; I'm here for you.
Life is always changing direction keeping us in a constant state of transition. At times these changes can become overwhelming. Some of these changes include death of a loved one, relationship status, identity issues, and unresolved childhood pain. You don't need to struggle through these hard times on your own. You deserve support, understanding, and care in a non-judgmental environment. You don't have to be alone; I'm here for you.
(704) 259-7180 View (704) 259-7180
Photo of Deborah A Leighton, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah A Leighton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
I began working in the fields of Addiction/Dual Diagnosis more than 35 years ago. Graduated from Syracuse University in Psychology; completed a master's program at ASU in Clinical Psychology. Graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (MSW). Extensively trained/experience with family systems, addiction, dual diagnosis, expressive arts, grief/bereavement therapy, clinical supervision & relapse prevention. I enjoy creative challenges and have an innovative approach with clients that emphasize individuality, personal growth and change. Accepting Medicare, Tricare, CBHA, BCBS (PPO), UHC, & Optum.
I began working in the fields of Addiction/Dual Diagnosis more than 35 years ago. Graduated from Syracuse University in Psychology; completed a master's program at ASU in Clinical Psychology. Graduated from the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill (MSW). Extensively trained/experience with family systems, addiction, dual diagnosis, expressive arts, grief/bereavement therapy, clinical supervision & relapse prevention. I enjoy creative challenges and have an innovative approach with clients that emphasize individuality, personal growth and change. Accepting Medicare, Tricare, CBHA, BCBS (PPO), UHC, & Optum.
(704) 729-7214 View (704) 729-7214
Photo of Caroline Biber, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline Biber
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
Are you struggling in your relationship? Feeling like things just aren't clicking the way they used to? It's tough when you're holding on by a thread, trying to meet everyone's needs while feeling like yours are being overlooked. Maybe you're wondering if it's normal to feel this way, or if there's something more you could be doing. You're not alone. Many couples find themselves in this situation, where it seems like no matter how hard they try, they can't seem to communicate effectively or meet each other's needs. But there is hope.
Are you struggling in your relationship? Feeling like things just aren't clicking the way they used to? It's tough when you're holding on by a thread, trying to meet everyone's needs while feeling like yours are being overlooked. Maybe you're wondering if it's normal to feel this way, or if there's something more you could be doing. You're not alone. Many couples find themselves in this situation, where it seems like no matter how hard they try, they can't seem to communicate effectively or meet each other's needs. But there is hope.
(704) 750-8279 View (704) 750-8279
Photo of Nicole Wallace, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, PMH-C
Nicole Wallace
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, NCC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
Are you struggling with stress and anxiety and/or depressive symptoms? I provide caring, non-judgmental mental health services. I wish to help you grow to learn more about yourself and your journey. I specialize in working with women who are experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, domestic violence, grief and loss, managing stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and developing effective parenting skills.
Are you struggling with stress and anxiety and/or depressive symptoms? I provide caring, non-judgmental mental health services. I wish to help you grow to learn more about yourself and your journey. I specialize in working with women who are experiencing anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, trauma, domestic violence, grief and loss, managing stress, life transitions, relationship difficulties, and developing effective parenting skills.
(984) 208-2545 View (984) 208-2545
Photo of Remi Ewharekuko, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Remi Ewharekuko
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209  (Online Only)
Looking for clarity, struggling with substance use, fighting with depression and anxiety, or any other mental health issues. I can assist. I help my clients in navigating the stressors of their individual lives. I identify the different values and ideologies of all my clients. Together we map a situation and figure out a solution that is in line with their personal desires so they are able to reach goals set. The three theories I use most in my practice are humanistic/self-determination, behaviorism and psychodynamic theory. With humanistic/self-determination theory I can ensure I help my clients achieve their highest potential.
Looking for clarity, struggling with substance use, fighting with depression and anxiety, or any other mental health issues. I can assist. I help my clients in navigating the stressors of their individual lives. I identify the different values and ideologies of all my clients. Together we map a situation and figure out a solution that is in line with their personal desires so they are able to reach goals set. The three theories I use most in my practice are humanistic/self-determination, behaviorism and psychodynamic theory. With humanistic/self-determination theory I can ensure I help my clients achieve their highest potential.
(704) 610-6068 View (704) 610-6068
Photo of Julia Tabor - Reclaim Counseling & Wellness, LCMHC, LCSW, LCSWA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reclaim Counseling & Wellness
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ashbrook-Clawson Village, Charlotte, NC 28209
Our clinicians offer a wide range of specialties and provides a comprehensive array of therapeutic modalities. Our team aims to fosters a supportive environment where clients feel understood, validated, and empowered to navigate their mental health challenges with resilience and hope. We recognize that healing is multifaceted, where we meet our clients where they are and provide a safe place for healing and purpose. That recognizes the impact of connection, faith and purpose in each client's life. Our desire is to always keep those values in how we operate this practice and continue to serve our clients in our community.
Our clinicians offer a wide range of specialties and provides a comprehensive array of therapeutic modalities. Our team aims to fosters a supportive environment where clients feel understood, validated, and empowered to navigate their mental health challenges with resilience and hope. We recognize that healing is multifaceted, where we meet our clients where they are and provide a safe place for healing and purpose. That recognizes the impact of connection, faith and purpose in each client's life. Our desire is to always keep those values in how we operate this practice and continue to serve our clients in our community.
(980) 332-2736 View (980) 332-2736
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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.