EMDR Therapists in Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC
Griffin Moore
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPC, LCMHC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
I am trained in EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectal behavioral therapy and interpersonal process therapy all of which I use in sessions.
It takes extreme strength to admit our need for help. It is my honor and privilege to walk alongside you through your highest and lowest points. I tailor my approach to your unique, individual needs and background. I desire to be a place where you feel nurtured, unconditionally accepted, safe, and supported. I work with clients in the midst of life and family transitions and relationship distress. I also enjoy treating children, adolescents and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, and spirituality issues.
I am trained in EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectal behavioral therapy and interpersonal process therapy all of which I use in sessions.
It takes extreme strength to admit our need for help. It is my honor and privilege to walk alongside you through your highest and lowest points. I tailor my approach to your unique, individual needs and background. I desire to be a place where you feel nurtured, unconditionally accepted, safe, and supported. I work with clients in the midst of life and family transitions and relationship distress. I also enjoy treating children, adolescents and adults with trauma, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, body image concerns, and spirituality issues.
Lily Mudry
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS, MAC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
I have extensive training in trauma related therapies including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Mindfulness.
I am a highly skilled and compassionate Trauma Therapist dedicated to providing exceptional care within a holistic framework. I have 30 years of professional counseling experience and have implemented effective treatment for adolescents and adults enduring a variety of mental health and/or substance use disorders. As a Counselor in the healing profession, my emphasis is on furthering your Wellness and Growth. At Eagle Eye Counseling the focus is on a Keeness for Excellence through Healing, Stability and Empowerment. I am also certified as a Master Addictions Counselor and provide Clinical Supervision for both Mental Health Counselors and Addiction Counselors who are seeking licensure.
I have extensive training in trauma related therapies including Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and Mindfulness.
I am a highly skilled and compassionate Trauma Therapist dedicated to providing exceptional care within a holistic framework. I have 30 years of professional counseling experience and have implemented effective treatment for adolescents and adults enduring a variety of mental health and/or substance use disorders. As a Counselor in the healing profession, my emphasis is on furthering your Wellness and Growth. At Eagle Eye Counseling the focus is on a Keeness for Excellence through Healing, Stability and Empowerment. I am also certified as a Master Addictions Counselor and provide Clinical Supervision for both Mental Health Counselors and Addiction Counselors who are seeking licensure.
Dr. Susan MacDonald Roddey
Pastoral Counselor, DMin, NCFBPPC
Verified Verified
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
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.
Agape Christian Counseling Center
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
Some have advanced trainings in EMDR for trauma counseling, Gottman Method or Prepare-Enrich for marriage counseling, CBT, DBT.
We are a group of counselors who are dedicated to the well-being of our clients as we practice professional counseling from a Christian perspective. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, losing a loved one, challenges at work, having hard time parenting your children or dissatisfaction in your marriage - we provide a safe place for you to come individually, as a family, or as a couple to explore the issues you might be experiencing, gain new perspective, and work on overcoming your difficulties. While taking an integrative approach to therapy, we welcome all people who seek counseling, regardless of religious background.
Some have advanced trainings in EMDR for trauma counseling, Gottman Method or Prepare-Enrich for marriage counseling, CBT, DBT.
We are a group of counselors who are dedicated to the well-being of our clients as we practice professional counseling from a Christian perspective. Whether it's anxiety, depression, trauma, losing a loved one, challenges at work, having hard time parenting your children or dissatisfaction in your marriage - we provide a safe place for you to come individually, as a family, or as a couple to explore the issues you might be experiencing, gain new perspective, and work on overcoming your difficulties. While taking an integrative approach to therapy, we welcome all people who seek counseling, regardless of religious background.
Kristin Dickie
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
At Silver Lining Counseling, we use a variety of proven modalities to foster healing including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and meditation techniques, behavioral therapies, solution focused therapy, family of origin and inner child work, and trauma therapy such as EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
We are so glad you’re here. You have just taken the first step in your healing journey. From this day forward, the therapists at Silver Lining Counseling will help you develop positive thoughts and beliefs about yourself, will help you reduce anxiety so you can feel empowered to accomplish your goals and dreams, and will help you change unhealthy patterns of behavior that are affecting your life in negative ways.
At Silver Lining Counseling, we use a variety of proven modalities to foster healing including cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness and meditation techniques, behavioral therapies, solution focused therapy, family of origin and inner child work, and trauma therapy such as EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
We are so glad you’re here. You have just taken the first step in your healing journey. From this day forward, the therapists at Silver Lining Counseling will help you develop positive thoughts and beliefs about yourself, will help you reduce anxiety so you can feel empowered to accomplish your goals and dreams, and will help you change unhealthy patterns of behavior that are affecting your life in negative ways.
Stefanie Mann
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
Stefanie Mann is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2015. Stefanie's passion is helping children, teens, and their families heal through Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. As an Adoption-Competent Therapist, Stephanie helps families navigate through the adoption process, encouraging healing and stability within the changing family unit. For adults, EMDR therapy provides the inner child with an opportunity to heal from past trauma.
Stefanie Mann is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2015. Stefanie's passion is helping children, teens, and their families heal through Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. As an Adoption-Competent Therapist, Stephanie helps families navigate through the adoption process, encouraging healing and stability within the changing family unit. For adults, EMDR therapy provides the inner child with an opportunity to heal from past trauma.
Caroline McCloud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
I've received formal training & have years of practice using specific evidence based practices such as Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) & EMDR as well as traditional Psychotherapy.
Trauma is interwoven through so many of your experiences and you continue to experience the effects to this day. You are looking for a therapist that can help you attain goals of healing, processing of the past events, and fulfilled living. My skill & passion is working with clients like you on the central theme of Trauma that often starts, then reinforces your problems. Treating this trauma is the solution. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated and ready for therapy while appreciating a nurturing therapist who is consistent & direct when needed. My work moves easily between modalities that are effective and supportive.
I've received formal training & have years of practice using specific evidence based practices such as Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) & EMDR as well as traditional Psychotherapy.
Trauma is interwoven through so many of your experiences and you continue to experience the effects to this day. You are looking for a therapist that can help you attain goals of healing, processing of the past events, and fulfilled living. My skill & passion is working with clients like you on the central theme of Trauma that often starts, then reinforces your problems. Treating this trauma is the solution. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated and ready for therapy while appreciating a nurturing therapist who is consistent & direct when needed. My work moves easily between modalities that are effective and supportive.
Katie Burnett
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
Waitlist for new clients
Additionally, I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Gottman Method, and Play Therapy.
Do you find yourself exhausted trying to juggle all of the demands? Are you struggling in your relationships? Are you an overwhelmed parent with no time leftover to care for yourself? Whatever the circumstances that brought you to this page, I'm glad you are here. You deserve more joy and connection. Whether you are feeling anxious and burnt out or insecure and self-critical, I can help. My role is to support you in finding the unique set of strengths and resources within yourself that will bring you more peace. Through curiosity and compassion, deeper levels of self-exploration and growth are possible.
Additionally, I am trained in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Gottman Method, and Play Therapy.
Do you find yourself exhausted trying to juggle all of the demands? Are you struggling in your relationships? Are you an overwhelmed parent with no time leftover to care for yourself? Whatever the circumstances that brought you to this page, I'm glad you are here. You deserve more joy and connection. Whether you are feeling anxious and burnt out or insecure and self-critical, I can help. My role is to support you in finding the unique set of strengths and resources within yourself that will bring you more peace. Through curiosity and compassion, deeper levels of self-exploration and growth are possible.
Latasha G. Gary
Counselor, LCMHC, MACC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
I am an EMDR Certified + Brainspotting Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, dissociation, and BPD.
Trauma doesn’t often show it's effects immediately or plainly. It is often hidden in patterns of sleepless nights, negative thinking, anxious worry, and feelings of despair and emptiness. It casts a long shadow that begins to de-color every aspect of life. Activities that were previously enjoyed are scheduled less often. You've noticed not only effects but that it has changed who you are. You’ve noticed that the way you feel about the world & others is very different. The thoughts you have about yourself are no better. And every part of life is categorized by whether it happened “before”. “Before the accident, before the bullying".
I am an EMDR Certified + Brainspotting Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, dissociation, and BPD.
Trauma doesn’t often show it's effects immediately or plainly. It is often hidden in patterns of sleepless nights, negative thinking, anxious worry, and feelings of despair and emptiness. It casts a long shadow that begins to de-color every aspect of life. Activities that were previously enjoyed are scheduled less often. You've noticed not only effects but that it has changed who you are. You’ve noticed that the way you feel about the world & others is very different. The thoughts you have about yourself are no better. And every part of life is categorized by whether it happened “before”. “Before the accident, before the bullying".
Thriveworks Counseling & Child Therapy Charlotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Lindsey M McIntyre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211 (Online Only)
I use a holistic, evidenced-based combination of CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness-based techniques to individualize treatment and collaborate with clients of all ages and identities.
I spent the first part of my career in non-profit and private practice settings in a rural area. These experiences provided a wide range of clinical growth and led to specializations in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. I quickly build rapport with clients and am particularly passionate about working with those who are apprehensive about the therapeutic process. In addition, I have an extensive background working with the LGBTQ+ community, from individual and group counseling to training clinicians in LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
I use a holistic, evidenced-based combination of CBT, Person-Centered Therapy, EMDR, and mindfulness-based techniques to individualize treatment and collaborate with clients of all ages and identities.
I spent the first part of my career in non-profit and private practice settings in a rural area. These experiences provided a wide range of clinical growth and led to specializations in complex trauma, anxiety, depression, and eating disorders. I quickly build rapport with clients and am particularly passionate about working with those who are apprehensive about the therapeutic process. In addition, I have an extensive background working with the LGBTQ+ community, from individual and group counseling to training clinicians in LGBTQ+ inclusivity.
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Amy Gregor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
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
Queen City Counseling & Consulting, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
Our Clinicians will be providing a variety of trauma focused treatments including EMDR and TRM (Trauma Resiliency Model) in a safe and nurturing environment.
"Empowering Young Minds Through Healing and Wellness" We are a psychotherapy practice conveniently located in the South Park area providing individual and group therapy for adolescents and young adults ages 13 to 25 . We have a strong focus on parent support and family involvement and a special interest in trauma focused therapy. Our clinicians have immediate availability in both the group and individual settings.
Our Clinicians will be providing a variety of trauma focused treatments including EMDR and TRM (Trauma Resiliency Model) in a safe and nurturing environment.
"Empowering Young Minds Through Healing and Wellness" We are a psychotherapy practice conveniently located in the South Park area providing individual and group therapy for adolescents and young adults ages 13 to 25 . We have a strong focus on parent support and family involvement and a special interest in trauma focused therapy. Our clinicians have immediate availability in both the group and individual settings.
Tiffany Austin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHCA, NCC, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
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.
Angela Hathaway
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
I specialize in PTSD, perinatal issues, and couples counseling using a wide range of evidence-based approaches, including "talk therapy," and neuro-based approaches such as EMDR. Trauma, such as child abuse, sexual violence, and domestic violence can create chaos in many areas of your life, including relationships, parenting, work/school, and even your physical health. We'll look at your "whole self." Who are you as a person, beyond your symptoms? What does your "best life" look like? What's getting between you and your goals? Together, we'll identify your goals, and start your journey to being the best version of yourself!
I specialize in PTSD, perinatal issues, and couples counseling using a wide range of evidence-based approaches, including "talk therapy," and neuro-based approaches such as EMDR. Trauma, such as child abuse, sexual violence, and domestic violence can create chaos in many areas of your life, including relationships, parenting, work/school, and even your physical health. We'll look at your "whole self." Who are you as a person, beyond your symptoms? What does your "best life" look like? What's getting between you and your goals? Together, we'll identify your goals, and start your journey to being the best version of yourself!
Marguerita Blaker & Associates, PLLC
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adults and families, with a focus on younger children and those dealing with trauma. I am accepting new clients with my group practice. We have clinicians specializing in young children, teens, adults, and LGBTQ+ clients of all ages. We are now excited to offer couples therapy as well!
I have over 25 years of experience working with children, adults and families, with a focus on younger children and those dealing with trauma. I am accepting new clients with my group practice. We have clinicians specializing in young children, teens, adults, and LGBTQ+ clients of all ages. We are now excited to offer couples therapy as well!
Patricia Butler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina for over 25 years. I take seriously the trust that clients place in me when choosing to work with me in psychotherapy and as a result I create a safe, non-judgmental space where life's challenges can be examined and explored and where a sense of health and well being can be found or reestablished. My specialties include relationship/couples counseling, trauma resolution, and the integration of spirituality and psychotherapy using the spiritual framework of my clients.
I have been a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in North Carolina for over 25 years. I take seriously the trust that clients place in me when choosing to work with me in psychotherapy and as a result I create a safe, non-judgmental space where life's challenges can be examined and explored and where a sense of health and well being can be found or reestablished. My specialties include relationship/couples counseling, trauma resolution, and the integration of spirituality and psychotherapy using the spiritual framework of my clients.
Karen M Quigley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BCPC, PCC
Verified Verified
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211 (Online Only)
True Form Coaching & Counseling is customized high-quality skillful consultation, life coaching, and counseling services. Do you feel stressed, tired, stuck, frustrated, and ready to make some changes? I can help you develop healthy coping skills, better boundaries, learn to manage your emotions, and improve your relationships. Together we help you clarify what's really important to you and help you achieve your goals. We collaborate to help eliminate the unpleasant symptoms you're experiencing and create a fulfilling and purposeful life. Being authentically yourself, aligned with your purpose is what it means to live in True Form.
True Form Coaching & Counseling is customized high-quality skillful consultation, life coaching, and counseling services. Do you feel stressed, tired, stuck, frustrated, and ready to make some changes? I can help you develop healthy coping skills, better boundaries, learn to manage your emotions, and improve your relationships. Together we help you clarify what's really important to you and help you achieve your goals. We collaborate to help eliminate the unpleasant symptoms you're experiencing and create a fulfilling and purposeful life. Being authentically yourself, aligned with your purpose is what it means to live in True Form.
Elise Comber
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
I provide counseling services for women and teen girls seeking compassionate and practical support navigating life’s challenges. You may feel stuck painful cycles, held back by self-doubt, or overwhelmed by intense emotions. Struggles with trauma, anxiety, relationships, and complex emotions can often lead to confusion and shame. Meeting with a counselor can help you find clarity and renew your confidence.
I provide counseling services for women and teen girls seeking compassionate and practical support navigating life’s challenges. You may feel stuck painful cycles, held back by self-doubt, or overwhelmed by intense emotions. Struggles with trauma, anxiety, relationships, and complex emotions can often lead to confusion and shame. Meeting with a counselor can help you find clarity and renew your confidence.
Eve Tabor-Woodall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT
Verified Verified
Sherwood Forest, Charlotte, NC 28211
Eve is located in Dilworth, and specializes in working to assist those who struggle with anxiety, depression, or residual trauma symptoms. Treatment is delivered through a biologically, developmentally and experientially respectful approach, taking into account each individual's neurodevelopment and diversity. Treatment is built upon client strengths, working to develop an individualized plan to meet your needs and address presenting concerns. Life has stages that can be difficult, making it even more important to identify and process through individual thoughts and feelings, in order to develop a plan to best handle the situation.
Eve is located in Dilworth, and specializes in working to assist those who struggle with anxiety, depression, or residual trauma symptoms. Treatment is delivered through a biologically, developmentally and experientially respectful approach, taking into account each individual's neurodevelopment and diversity. Treatment is built upon client strengths, working to develop an individualized plan to meet your needs and address presenting concerns. Life has stages that can be difficult, making it even more important to identify and process through individual thoughts and feelings, in order to develop a plan to best handle the situation.
See more therapy options for Sherwood Forest, Charlotte
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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.