EMDR Therapists in Providence Park, Charlotte, NC

Photo of Robin Navarro, PsyD, Psychologist
Robin Navarro
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Providence Park, Charlotte, NC 28211
Have you ever considered an EMDR intensive? EMDR therapy is an evidence-based practice that assists individuals with all types of hurts to work through them.
Are you tired of working hard in therapy for months or years without seeing results? If only you could move past your past, process childhood hurts or that recent abusive relationship, or recover from the memories that haunt you at night. You may have become perfectionistic, people pleasing, or overly fearful, afraid of everything. Perhaps your mood has suffered, and your self-esteem is non-existent. Maybe it feels that no one understands and now that you think about it, there's so much confusion about your thoughts and feelings, you're lacking life direction. There's a lot and you're not sure where to start!
Have you ever considered an EMDR intensive? EMDR therapy is an evidence-based practice that assists individuals with all types of hurts to work through them.
Are you tired of working hard in therapy for months or years without seeing results? If only you could move past your past, process childhood hurts or that recent abusive relationship, or recover from the memories that haunt you at night. You may have become perfectionistic, people pleasing, or overly fearful, afraid of everything. Perhaps your mood has suffered, and your self-esteem is non-existent. Maybe it feels that no one understands and now that you think about it, there's so much confusion about your thoughts and feelings, you're lacking life direction. There's a lot and you're not sure where to start!
(704) 774-0459 View (704) 774-0459
Photo of Claudia Marra Jacobson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia Marra Jacobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence Park, Charlotte, NC 28211
I truly believe that all of us have the tools and potential to face life's challenges, adversities, and pains. Relationship issues, divorce as well as life and professional changes may bring anxiety, stress, and depression. For over 20 years I have been working with individuals, couples, and families. I will create a warm, safe, and confidential environment for you and I will be a passionate listener to your story. Together we will find your own ability to live a better life with yourself and with others. I am trained to use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to treat trauma and difficult issues.
I truly believe that all of us have the tools and potential to face life's challenges, adversities, and pains. Relationship issues, divorce as well as life and professional changes may bring anxiety, stress, and depression. For over 20 years I have been working with individuals, couples, and families. I will create a warm, safe, and confidential environment for you and I will be a passionate listener to your story. Together we will find your own ability to live a better life with yourself and with others. I am trained to use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to treat trauma and difficult issues.
(704) 981-8630 View (704) 981-8630
Photo of Ami Patel, MS, LCMHC
Ami Patel
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Providence Park, Charlotte, NC 28211
She is also certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) for clients with trauma.
Ami Patel is a licensed professional counselor providing individual therapy to adults. She understands the courage it takes to reach out for help and her goal is to help you create a safe space where vulnerability and honesty are valued. Ami provides counseling for those who wish to create long lasting and positive changes in their lives and relationships. She treats mental health through the lens of the whole person: emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual. She believes in promoting healing through positive changes and recognition of one’s strengths.
She is also certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) for clients with trauma.
Ami Patel is a licensed professional counselor providing individual therapy to adults. She understands the courage it takes to reach out for help and her goal is to help you create a safe space where vulnerability and honesty are valued. Ami provides counseling for those who wish to create long lasting and positive changes in their lives and relationships. She treats mental health through the lens of the whole person: emotional, relational, physical, and spiritual. She believes in promoting healing through positive changes and recognition of one’s strengths.
(704) 251-6550 View (704) 251-6550
Photo of Hallie Gardner, LCMHC, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Hallie Gardner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Providence Park, Charlotte, NC 28211
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 Amanda K Crowder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda K Crowder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Providence Park, Charlotte, NC 28211
My approach to therapy is to treat the whole person through a collaborative process. I am a firm believer in that everyone goes through "ups" and "downs" throughout life. I also believe that no matter how one may view a problem, how that person feels and how that person thinks is what is most important. I believe that problems and issues can be resolved, especially when one is invested in his/her treatment. I enjoy working with my clients to find solutions and assist in learning how to find happiness, enjoyment, and a sense of control. I find creative ways to engage with my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
My approach to therapy is to treat the whole person through a collaborative process. I am a firm believer in that everyone goes through "ups" and "downs" throughout life. I also believe that no matter how one may view a problem, how that person feels and how that person thinks is what is most important. I believe that problems and issues can be resolved, especially when one is invested in his/her treatment. I enjoy working with my clients to find solutions and assist in learning how to find happiness, enjoyment, and a sense of control. I find creative ways to engage with my clients throughout the therapeutic process.
(704) 774-4106 View (704) 774-4106
Photo of Rob Adelman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rob Adelman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Providence Park, Charlotte, NC 28211
I have 30+ years as both a psychotherapist and executive and life coach. I work with individuals, couples, families, leaders and teams to improve mood and achieve positive change. My work is solution focused helping clients resolve inner and relational conflicts, alter bad habits promoting healthy life choices and lifestyles. I utilize well researched methods including CBT, IFS and mindfulness, assisting with issues including ADHD, anxiety, communication and sleep problems. I help clients learn how to live more intentionally and passionately thru mindfulness, problem solving and by developing positive habits.
I have 30+ years as both a psychotherapist and executive and life coach. I work with individuals, couples, families, leaders and teams to improve mood and achieve positive change. My work is solution focused helping clients resolve inner and relational conflicts, alter bad habits promoting healthy life choices and lifestyles. I utilize well researched methods including CBT, IFS and mindfulness, assisting with issues including ADHD, anxiety, communication and sleep problems. I help clients learn how to live more intentionally and passionately thru mindfulness, problem solving and by developing positive habits.
(704) 675-7846 x2 View (704) 675-7846 x2
Photo of Kaelyn Alexander, MA, LCMHCA, Counselor
Kaelyn Alexander
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence Park, Charlotte, NC 28211
I found my passion for counseling through my own experiences with mental health. Life is a tough journey, and no one is meant to go through it alone, though it can often feel very lonely. My goal and hope is to provide a safe, welcoming, non-judgmental space for you to process your experiences, heal your wounds, and continue to grow on your journey. Counseling allows you to process your experiences and feelings, which often leads to better relationships, solutions to specific problems, and relief from feelings of distress. Seeking help is a brave decision to make and I’m glad you’re here!
I found my passion for counseling through my own experiences with mental health. Life is a tough journey, and no one is meant to go through it alone, though it can often feel very lonely. My goal and hope is to provide a safe, welcoming, non-judgmental space for you to process your experiences, heal your wounds, and continue to grow on your journey. Counseling allows you to process your experiences and feelings, which often leads to better relationships, solutions to specific problems, and relief from feelings of distress. Seeking help is a brave decision to make and I’m glad you’re here!
(704) 459-8236 View (704) 459-8236
Photo of Christine F Simpson, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, PMH-C, CIMHP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine F Simpson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, PMH-C, CIMHP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Providence Park, Charlotte, NC 28211
For over 32 yrs I have worked to bring healing to people of all ages. I provide individual & family therapy for adolescents & adults. My specialties are the treatment of anxiety, depression, life transition issues, relationship issues & parenting challenges. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner & I believe in the importance of the mind/body connection. I especially enjoy working with highly sensitive persons (HSP). You will experience my authentic self in therapy sessions, a warm, nurturing & direct approach as I help you achieve your goals. I am honored to be part of a client's journey to wellness.
For over 32 yrs I have worked to bring healing to people of all ages. I provide individual & family therapy for adolescents & adults. My specialties are the treatment of anxiety, depression, life transition issues, relationship issues & parenting challenges. I am a Certified Integrative Mental Health Practitioner & I believe in the importance of the mind/body connection. I especially enjoy working with highly sensitive persons (HSP). You will experience my authentic self in therapy sessions, a warm, nurturing & direct approach as I help you achieve your goals. I am honored to be part of a client's journey to wellness.
(704) 870-0215 View (704) 870-0215
Photo of Kim Matone - Matone Counseling and Testing, LCMHC
Matone Counseling and Testing
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence Park, Charlotte, NC 28211
Matone Counseling operates two locations in Charlotte, and two in Asheville, NC. Our staff of over 50 clinicians includes psychologists, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and licensed mental health counselors. We offer evidence based approaches to help couples and individuals of all ages effectively address life challenges through a collaborative relationship. Our experienced staff will offer an environment that will feel safe, neutral, non judgmental and supportive.
Matone Counseling operates two locations in Charlotte, and two in Asheville, NC. Our staff of over 50 clinicians includes psychologists, marriage and family therapists, clinical social workers, and licensed mental health counselors. We offer evidence based approaches to help couples and individuals of all ages effectively address life challenges through a collaborative relationship. Our experienced staff will offer an environment that will feel safe, neutral, non judgmental and supportive.
(704) 270-6595 View (704) 270-6595
Photo of Mary Lou Albano, PhD, LCSW, CEAP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Lou Albano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CEAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Providence Park, Charlotte, NC 28211
Not accepting new clients
Discovering a vital resource is a big step to a better life. The choice for personal development begins with finding a professional counselor or coach with whom you have rapport and can build trust.
Discovering a vital resource is a big step to a better life. The choice for personal development begins with finding a professional counselor or coach with whom you have rapport and can build trust.
(704) 322-4768 View (704) 322-4768

Online Therapists

Photo of Karen Rogich, LCMHCA, MAC, MEd
Karen Rogich
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate, LCMHCA, MAC, MEd
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28204
Karen is trained in EMDR, EFT, Nutrition and integrative Mental Health Counseling, and Somatic Attachment Therapy.
Karen Rogich is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate practicing in the heart of Charlotte, NC. Karen’s therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic/psychoanalytic therapy, which is insight-oriented. This model explores how our early life experiences relate to current life functioning and relationships to offer choices for change. In her practice, therapy is tailored to each individual. Karen utilizes an integrative model incorporating somatic work, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, health and nutrition, to help clients make lasting changes for meaningful life. Karen enjoys working with adults and couples.
Karen is trained in EMDR, EFT, Nutrition and integrative Mental Health Counseling, and Somatic Attachment Therapy.
Karen Rogich is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate practicing in the heart of Charlotte, NC. Karen’s therapeutic approach is grounded in psychodynamic/psychoanalytic therapy, which is insight-oriented. This model explores how our early life experiences relate to current life functioning and relationships to offer choices for change. In her practice, therapy is tailored to each individual. Karen utilizes an integrative model incorporating somatic work, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, health and nutrition, to help clients make lasting changes for meaningful life. Karen enjoys working with adults and couples.
(704) 666-8823 View (704) 666-8823
Photo of Stacy L Dixon, MA, LMFT, QMHP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stacy L Dixon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, QMHP
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28206
I use cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, emotionally-focused and solution-focused therapy.
Transitions can be difficult. The decision to change is both challenging and rewarding. I provide an atmosphere of confidentiality, warmth and respect where you can ask questions and explore solutions. I will listen and provide tools to help you. We can address difficulties in your work, home and social settings. Therapy offers you a supportive place where you can process your experiences, gain perspective and make decisions that help you move forward.
I use cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, emotionally-focused and solution-focused therapy.
Transitions can be difficult. The decision to change is both challenging and rewarding. I provide an atmosphere of confidentiality, warmth and respect where you can ask questions and explore solutions. I will listen and provide tools to help you. We can address difficulties in your work, home and social settings. Therapy offers you a supportive place where you can process your experiences, gain perspective and make decisions that help you move forward.
(605) 250-3947 View (605) 250-3947
Photo of Olivia Hildreth, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia Hildreth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28287
Olivia uses a client-centered approach by using therapeutic interventions such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Olivia is passionate about working with children and families to better understand family dynamics, and behavioral and emotional issues occurring within the family system. She utilizes play therapy techniques to step into the child’s world and make sense of what your child is feeling. Olivia enjoys working with teens that are finding their path in life by exploring their values, self-worth, and growth. When the path seems winding and unpredictable, she will work with teens to find the coping strategies that work for their journey.
Olivia uses a client-centered approach by using therapeutic interventions such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Acceptance Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Olivia is passionate about working with children and families to better understand family dynamics, and behavioral and emotional issues occurring within the family system. She utilizes play therapy techniques to step into the child’s world and make sense of what your child is feeling. Olivia enjoys working with teens that are finding their path in life by exploring their values, self-worth, and growth. When the path seems winding and unpredictable, she will work with teens to find the coping strategies that work for their journey.
(704) 272-4537 View (704) 272-4537
Photo of Christopher A. Cook, PhD, MA, LCMHC, QS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christopher A. Cook
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MA, LCMHC, QS
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
Therapy includes body work, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and story processing.
If you need help healing from painful past experiences or developing healthy relationships, I can help. I work with clients who have been harmed by past experiences, from prolonged childhood neglect or abuse to adult experiences that you are just having difficulty moving past. I also work with couples who are trying to work through conflict or grow closer. I help clients find calm and peace in their current lives, healing from past pain, a renewed sense of meaning, purpose, and identity. I will partner with you to discover where you are on the healing journey and develop a plan for moving you forward in healing and growth.
Therapy includes body work, EMDR, Internal Family Systems, and story processing.
If you need help healing from painful past experiences or developing healthy relationships, I can help. I work with clients who have been harmed by past experiences, from prolonged childhood neglect or abuse to adult experiences that you are just having difficulty moving past. I also work with couples who are trying to work through conflict or grow closer. I help clients find calm and peace in their current lives, healing from past pain, a renewed sense of meaning, purpose, and identity. I will partner with you to discover where you are on the healing journey and develop a plan for moving you forward in healing and growth.
(828) 348-0736 View (828) 348-0736
Photo of Debra Neisler, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debra Neisler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I also use EMDR and other methods to reduce and resolve symptoms and improve your quality of life.
I’ve been a psychotherapist for almost twenty years and have worked with individuals, families, and children.  I find my work with adult females to be the most rewarding because I can relate to the issues that women experience. I have traveled my path through childhood trauma to become the expression of my true self, and I continue to learn more every day. With my personal experience and knowledge of psychological theories and therapies, I can help you with your self-discovery and challenges.  This is a lifelong journey, not a race.
I also use EMDR and other methods to reduce and resolve symptoms and improve your quality of life.
I’ve been a psychotherapist for almost twenty years and have worked with individuals, families, and children.  I find my work with adult females to be the most rewarding because I can relate to the issues that women experience. I have traveled my path through childhood trauma to become the expression of my true self, and I continue to learn more every day. With my personal experience and knowledge of psychological theories and therapies, I can help you with your self-discovery and challenges.  This is a lifelong journey, not a race.
(704) 413-0319 View (704) 413-0319
Photo of Melissa Marie Stokes, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Marie Stokes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
I'm also now certified in EMDR and can provide this treatment at no extra charge.
ONLY Providing Virtual Therapy in NC. I'm a fully licensed clinical social worker with 7 years of professional experience in an outpatient therapy setting. I work with a wide range of disorders but I'm most experienced at working with females dealing with depression, anxiety, adhd, family conflict, and relationship issues/abuse. I have a relaxed style of therapy where clients can attend sessions in whatever setting they need to. Need to do a session during your lunch break while you eat? No problem. Kids running around in the background? That's fine, just wear your earbuds. I get it. It's hard to find time, but I will work with you.
I'm also now certified in EMDR and can provide this treatment at no extra charge.
ONLY Providing Virtual Therapy in NC. I'm a fully licensed clinical social worker with 7 years of professional experience in an outpatient therapy setting. I work with a wide range of disorders but I'm most experienced at working with females dealing with depression, anxiety, adhd, family conflict, and relationship issues/abuse. I have a relaxed style of therapy where clients can attend sessions in whatever setting they need to. Need to do a session during your lunch break while you eat? No problem. Kids running around in the background? That's fine, just wear your earbuds. I get it. It's hard to find time, but I will work with you.
(910) 621-2098 View (910) 621-2098
Photo of Tiffany Austin, LCMHCA, NCC, RN
Tiffany Austin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28226
These may include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Client Centered Therapy, TraumaPlay, and Sandtray.
Tiffany is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. She works with clients across the Lifespan beginning at 3 years old, focusing on struggles with life adjustments, anxiety, trauma, depression, behavioral concerns, identity and self awareness, relationship concerns, as well as grief and loss. Tiffany believes that psychological wellness is about connection to and awareness of our self and relating well with others. Tiffany will work with you to process complicated thoughts and feelings and bring about meaningful awareness that lead to deeper connections in relationships.
These may include EMDR, Internal Family Systems, Mindfulness, Client Centered Therapy, TraumaPlay, and Sandtray.
Tiffany is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Associate in the state of North Carolina. She works with clients across the Lifespan beginning at 3 years old, focusing on struggles with life adjustments, anxiety, trauma, depression, behavioral concerns, identity and self awareness, relationship concerns, as well as grief and loss. Tiffany believes that psychological wellness is about connection to and awareness of our self and relating well with others. Tiffany will work with you to process complicated thoughts and feelings and bring about meaningful awareness that lead to deeper connections in relationships.
(704) 270-8514 View (704) 270-8514
Photo of Katrina Creech, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katrina Creech
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR) which are evidenced based treatments in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Are you wanting to make changes, but not really sure where to begin? We all experience life challenges that can sometimes leave us feeling hopeless, frustrated, and overwhelmed. I provide an accepting space for you to share your story, process your emotions, and develop tangible skills that you can incorporate into your daily life. We'll explore what truly matters to you while celebrating your victories and learning from challenges side by side. It is important to feel connected to your therapist. I utilize humor and candidness in session.
I have specialized training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR) which are evidenced based treatments in treating anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Are you wanting to make changes, but not really sure where to begin? We all experience life challenges that can sometimes leave us feeling hopeless, frustrated, and overwhelmed. I provide an accepting space for you to share your story, process your emotions, and develop tangible skills that you can incorporate into your daily life. We'll explore what truly matters to you while celebrating your victories and learning from challenges side by side. It is important to feel connected to your therapist. I utilize humor and candidness in session.
(910) 606-6480 View (910) 606-6480
Photo of Amy Gregor, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amy Gregor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I have training in the Trauma Resiliency Model and EMDR to assist in healing from trauma.
After 10 years of experience I have found a passion working with adolescents and young adults. I spent much of my time working in acute settings with self-harm and suicidal thoughts as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and a variety of other diagnoses. I enjoy helping my clients gain a better understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how they are connected. We work together to gain skills to better manage, cope, and communicate difficult emotions in a health way. In addition, I enjoy helping teens strengthen their ability to communicate to parents and their supports. I currently see ages 13-25
I have training in the Trauma Resiliency Model and EMDR to assist in healing from trauma.
After 10 years of experience I have found a passion working with adolescents and young adults. I spent much of my time working in acute settings with self-harm and suicidal thoughts as a result of trauma, depression, anxiety, and a variety of other diagnoses. I enjoy helping my clients gain a better understanding of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and how they are connected. We work together to gain skills to better manage, cope, and communicate difficult emotions in a health way. In addition, I enjoy helping teens strengthen their ability to communicate to parents and their supports. I currently see ages 13-25
(704) 529-9019 View (704) 529-9019
Photo of Elizabeth Adamovich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Adamovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (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

See more therapy options for Providence Park, Charlotte

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.