EMDR Therapists in University City North, Charlotte, NC

Photo of Brianna Knox | Trauma Specialist | Emdr Therapist, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Brianna Knox | Trauma Specialist | Emdr Therapist
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
I enjoy using EMDR to advance this therapeutic processing.
What could your life be without the shame and guilt of childhood trauma? You are struggling to feel worthy of love. You are uncertain of how to give it and often wondering if you will ever find a relationship that just feels good. I get it. It is so difficult to surround yourself with love in adulthood when the people who raised you didn't do so for you in childhood. Come and work with me. I'll help you heal your inner child and break cycles of intergenerational trauma, so that you can build a life and relationships that you will love.
I enjoy using EMDR to advance this therapeutic processing.
What could your life be without the shame and guilt of childhood trauma? You are struggling to feel worthy of love. You are uncertain of how to give it and often wondering if you will ever find a relationship that just feels good. I get it. It is so difficult to surround yourself with love in adulthood when the people who raised you didn't do so for you in childhood. Come and work with me. I'll help you heal your inner child and break cycles of intergenerational trauma, so that you can build a life and relationships that you will love.
(704) 610-3278 View (704) 610-3278
Photo of Loredana Pampinella - P & G Clinical Services, PhD, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
P & G Clinical Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28213  (Online Only)
PhD in Advance Study in Human Behavior, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS), Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist, and EMDR consultant.
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
PhD in Advance Study in Human Behavior, Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LCMHCS), Certified Sex Offender Treatment Specialist, and EMDR consultant.
We are accepting new patients! Hablamos y ofrecemos servicios en Español. Estamos aceptando nuevos pacientes. I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) and bicultural professional who has worked with abused children, adolescents, adults and their families who have experienced trauma. I have also worked with individuals with other mental health disorders (e.g., anxiety disorders, mood disorders, psychotic disorders, eating disorders, impulse control, addiction disorders, personality disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, etc.).
(704) 207-0995 View (704) 207-0995
Photo of Tasha Boileau, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tasha Boileau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28213
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW) providing mental health services to Adolescents, and Adults. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences from the University of Florida in 2011. I went on to receive my Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of South Florida in 2013. I have been working in the mental health field for about five years. I have received my training in Level II EMDR by EMDRIA and is currently participating in the prestigious North Carolina Child Treatment Program for Certification and Rostering in TF-CBT.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Work (LCSW) providing mental health services to Adolescents, and Adults. I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Family, Youth, and Community Sciences from the University of Florida in 2011. I went on to receive my Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of South Florida in 2013. I have been working in the mental health field for about five years. I have received my training in Level II EMDR by EMDRIA and is currently participating in the prestigious North Carolina Child Treatment Program for Certification and Rostering in TF-CBT.
(704) 270-2893 View (704) 270-2893
Photo of Claudia Marra Jacobson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Claudia Marra Jacobson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28213
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 Alexis Brightman, MA, LPA, Psychological Associate
Alexis Brightman
Psychological Associate, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28213  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I'm trained in EMDR and currently incorporate the technique.
Hello there! I'm Alexis, your potential partner-in-growth on this exciting journey of self-discovery and healing. As a passionate therapist, I specialize in creating warm, open spaces where honesty thrives, vulnerability unfolds, and true self-reflection happens. My knack for helping others feel safe allows the magic of unraveling and discovery to take place. I respect the therapeutic process and am thrilled you're taking these initial steps to prioritize yourself and embark on a path of healing. Let's navigate this journey together with warmth, wit, and a sprinkle of humor. Welcome to a space where you can truly be you!
I'm trained in EMDR and currently incorporate the technique.
Hello there! I'm Alexis, your potential partner-in-growth on this exciting journey of self-discovery and healing. As a passionate therapist, I specialize in creating warm, open spaces where honesty thrives, vulnerability unfolds, and true self-reflection happens. My knack for helping others feel safe allows the magic of unraveling and discovery to take place. I respect the therapeutic process and am thrilled you're taking these initial steps to prioritize yourself and embark on a path of healing. Let's navigate this journey together with warmth, wit, and a sprinkle of humor. Welcome to a space where you can truly be you!
(980) 949-0274 View (980) 949-0274
Photo of Jamarr J Funderburg, CSOTS, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamarr J Funderburg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSOTS, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28262
I am specifically trained to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Behavior Modification (BMod) with children and adults with mental health and or substance use disorders.
I provide treatment for diverse individuals who have diverse life experiences. I have the education and training to address a wide range of treatment issues however I specialize in treating addictions, trauma(s), and challenging relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My primary client's are adults over the age of 18.
I am specifically trained to use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Trauma Focused CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Behavior Modification (BMod) with children and adults with mental health and or substance use disorders.
I provide treatment for diverse individuals who have diverse life experiences. I have the education and training to address a wide range of treatment issues however I specialize in treating addictions, trauma(s), and challenging relationships. I work with individuals, couples, and families. My primary client's are adults over the age of 18.
(704) 594-5092 View (704) 594-5092
Photo of Kwanza Winn, LISW-CP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kwanza Winn
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, LCSW
Verified Verified
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28262  (Online Only)
Have you or your child been feeling stuck? Have you started to question who you are and what it will take for your circumstances to change? Have difficult memories from the past started to creep back into your mind? Has the voice of outsiders and social media started to make you question your success? Maybe you're in the midst of a major life transition. Holding these thoughts inside while balancing daily tasks can be stressful. Being able to express yourself in a safe space can make all the difference while you begin to view yourself and your circumstances with new lenses.
Have you or your child been feeling stuck? Have you started to question who you are and what it will take for your circumstances to change? Have difficult memories from the past started to creep back into your mind? Has the voice of outsiders and social media started to make you question your success? Maybe you're in the midst of a major life transition. Holding these thoughts inside while balancing daily tasks can be stressful. Being able to express yourself in a safe space can make all the difference while you begin to view yourself and your circumstances with new lenses.
(704) 610-6608 View (704) 610-6608
Photo of Dawn Johnson - Turning Point Family Services, LCMHC, LCSW, LMFT, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Turning Point Family Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCMHC, LCSW, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28262
Turning Point Family Services offers a variety of outpatient services. These services include individual and family therapy, group therapy, comprehensive clinical assessments, substance abuse therapy, and psychiatric medication management. These services are customized to meet the needs of the children and families that we serve, and can be conducted via telehealth as well.
Turning Point Family Services offers a variety of outpatient services. These services include individual and family therapy, group therapy, comprehensive clinical assessments, substance abuse therapy, and psychiatric medication management. These services are customized to meet the needs of the children and families that we serve, and can be conducted via telehealth as well.
(704) 851-8228 View (704) 851-8228
Photo of Dawn Johnson - Turning Point Family Services, LCMHC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Turning Point Family Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCMHC, LCSW
Verified Verified
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28262
Turning Point Family Services offers a variety of outpatient services. These services include individual and family therapy, group therapy, comprehensive clinical assessments, and psychiatric medication management. These services are customized to meet the needs of the children and families that we serve, and can be conducted via telehealth as well.
Turning Point Family Services offers a variety of outpatient services. These services include individual and family therapy, group therapy, comprehensive clinical assessments, and psychiatric medication management. These services are customized to meet the needs of the children and families that we serve, and can be conducted via telehealth as well.
(980) 237-9731 View (980) 237-9731
Photo of Sheila Maitland Relationship Enrichment Center, LCMHCS, LCMHCA, LCSW, CSAT, CPTT, Counselor
Sheila Maitland Relationship Enrichment Center
Counselor, LCMHCS, LCMHCA, LCSW, CSAT, CPTT
Verified Verified
26 Endorsed
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28213
Many of our clients look good on the outside, yet feel mildly miserable on the inside. Pain is motivating and when clients are hurting, they call to schedule an appointment. It takes more than intellect to change behavior. Most of our clients are intelligent and know what they "should" do, yet struggle to take action. Our team works with people (or partners) who struggle with substances and behavioral medicators such as alcohol, porn, overeating and codependency. We treat individuals, couples and families that need help with addiction, mental illness, infidelity or simply feeling stuck. It is a relief to not have to do it alone.
Many of our clients look good on the outside, yet feel mildly miserable on the inside. Pain is motivating and when clients are hurting, they call to schedule an appointment. It takes more than intellect to change behavior. Most of our clients are intelligent and know what they "should" do, yet struggle to take action. Our team works with people (or partners) who struggle with substances and behavioral medicators such as alcohol, porn, overeating and codependency. We treat individuals, couples and families that need help with addiction, mental illness, infidelity or simply feeling stuck. It is a relief to not have to do it alone.
(704) 325-5863 View (704) 325-5863
Photo of Amanda K Crowder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda K Crowder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28213
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 Melvin Battle - Surviving The Battle, PLLC, LCMHCS, TFCBT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Surviving The Battle, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, TFCBT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28213
Hope all is well, Thank You for visiting our page and thank you for the opportunity of allowing us to possibly assist you, a referral, your child or your loved one with their mental health needs. In my own words "I am a Mentor by Nature and a Therapist by profession. Through my work experiences and education, I realized there is a significant difference between mentoring & counseling. So I decided to create a clinical platform to better assist our community with their mental health needs". In addition, I also provide Clinical Supervision. Please visit us at www.survivingthebattle.com for additional information.
Hope all is well, Thank You for visiting our page and thank you for the opportunity of allowing us to possibly assist you, a referral, your child or your loved one with their mental health needs. In my own words "I am a Mentor by Nature and a Therapist by profession. Through my work experiences and education, I realized there is a significant difference between mentoring & counseling. So I decided to create a clinical platform to better assist our community with their mental health needs". In addition, I also provide Clinical Supervision. Please visit us at www.survivingthebattle.com for additional information.
(980) 201-4829 View (980) 201-4829
Photo of Kayla Patterson, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Kayla Patterson
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
University City North, Charlotte, NC 28213
Waitlist for new clients
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
You are the adult child of a family often filled with dysfunction. You were handed responsibility at an early age due to familial circumstances, and you have built your identity on being the "strong one" in your relationships. You struggle with expressing your needs, emotions, and boundaries with others. You worry that, if left unchecked, one day you will continue to repeat the patterns of generational trauma expressed by others in your family. If you resonate with the above statements, I think it is incredibly brave of you to consider seeking help. It is never too late to rewrite the story you wish to tell with your life.
(704) 389-5748 View (704) 389-5748

Online Therapists

Photo of Tim Martin, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tim Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSAT, CMAT, CPTT, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? These issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions and compulsive behavior, as well as substance addictions. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR trauma therapy, as well. There is hope.
Infidelity? Porn addiction? Sex addiction? Trauma? These issues can be tough to deal with, but I can help. I have specialized training so that you're not wasting your time and money. Not just talk, talk, talk that gets you nowhere. I used evidence-based treatments so that you're feeling better soon. As a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist (CSAT), a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist (CPTT), and a Certified Multiple Addiction Therapist (CMAT), I'm trained in many addictions and compulsive behavior, as well as substance addictions. Most therapists aren't trained in all these issues. I offer EMDR trauma therapy, as well. There is hope.
(704) 397-3669 View (704) 397-3669
Photo of Jaclyn Martinez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaclyn Martinez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28211  (Online Only)
I find EMDR is a very effective method to help my clients work through their past so they can truly be in the present.
I help individuals who have experienced anxiety and/or trauma reclaim their lives. Trauma can take many forms whether it be: witnessing/experiencing domestic violence, sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, community violence or tragic loss of a loved one- to name a few. For many, the end result is flashbacks, nightmares, dissociation, irritability, low-self-esteem and feeling disconnected from yourself and those around you. My clients have seen and been through some serious stuff. Despite being determined, caring and hard-working, they feel like they cannot get back to life before what happened- well happened.
I find EMDR is a very effective method to help my clients work through their past so they can truly be in the present.
I help individuals who have experienced anxiety and/or trauma reclaim their lives. Trauma can take many forms whether it be: witnessing/experiencing domestic violence, sexual abuse, physical abuse, emotional abuse, community violence or tragic loss of a loved one- to name a few. For many, the end result is flashbacks, nightmares, dissociation, irritability, low-self-esteem and feeling disconnected from yourself and those around you. My clients have seen and been through some serious stuff. Despite being determined, caring and hard-working, they feel like they cannot get back to life before what happened- well happened.
(704) 842-9775 View (704) 842-9775
Photo of Stephanie Freeman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Freeman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Her approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy, EMDR, and motivational interviewing.
Stephanie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina with over 6 years of experience. She has worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression and anxiety. She has also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
Her approach combines cognitive-behavioral, dialectical behavioral therapy, EMDR, and motivational interviewing.
Stephanie is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in North Carolina with over 6 years of experience. She has worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression and anxiety. She has also helped many people who have experienced physical trauma or emotional abuse.
(704) 610-3552 View (704) 610-3552
Photo of Andrea Exley, LMFT, LCAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Andrea Exley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
Waitlist for new clients
I have training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, somatic experiences, play therapy, and other evidence based practices that can assist in breaking down walls, reprocessing trauma, and changing the things that has kept individuals in darkness.
I am not afraid of hearing the hard truths that you don't share with others. I find it an honor and a privilege to come along side someone who trusts me enough to share their life, the good and the bad. I have supported people who have experienced things that they believe others think to be unreal, people who believe there is no reason to keep living, people who partake in activities they know are not good for them, people who struggle to have healthy relationships, and people that have been living in darkness. I want to help you break away from that darkness. I want to provide a space that fosters security, hope, and healing.
I have training in EMDR, CBT, DBT, somatic experiences, play therapy, and other evidence based practices that can assist in breaking down walls, reprocessing trauma, and changing the things that has kept individuals in darkness.
I am not afraid of hearing the hard truths that you don't share with others. I find it an honor and a privilege to come along side someone who trusts me enough to share their life, the good and the bad. I have supported people who have experienced things that they believe others think to be unreal, people who believe there is no reason to keep living, people who partake in activities they know are not good for them, people who struggle to have healthy relationships, and people that have been living in darkness. I want to help you break away from that darkness. I want to provide a space that fosters security, hope, and healing.
(704) 396-8736 View (704) 396-8736
Photo of Molly Carroll, LCSWA
Molly Carroll
LCSW Associate , LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28204
Waitlist for new clients
I provide individual therapy utilizing Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Sandtray therapy, and other modalities to support clients in their therapeutic journey.
My name is Molly (she/her) and I am here to support you in your unfolding story. Starting therapy can be extremely daunting. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space for individuals to attend to pain and move towards healing. I approach therapy with a person-centered, trauma-informed perspective, striving to create an environment where vulnerability feels accessible and empowering. You are the expert of your experience and it is my hope that you feel this throughout our time together.
I provide individual therapy utilizing Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Sandtray therapy, and other modalities to support clients in their therapeutic journey.
My name is Molly (she/her) and I am here to support you in your unfolding story. Starting therapy can be extremely daunting. My goal as a therapist is to create a safe space for individuals to attend to pain and move towards healing. I approach therapy with a person-centered, trauma-informed perspective, striving to create an environment where vulnerability feels accessible and empowering. You are the expert of your experience and it is my hope that you feel this throughout our time together.
View
Photo of Blake Clemmons - Agape Christian Counseling Center, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Agape Christian Counseling Center
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28227
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.
(704) 448-0762 View (704) 448-0762
Photo of Sheena Vallabh, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheena Vallabh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
No matter where you are in life currently, you have undoubtedly faced challenges and difficulty. If you are coping with past trauma, you may notice situations in the past may be playing a role in your current concerns or significantly impacting your life and relationships. Feelings of shame, guilt, and worries for the future can hold you back from knowing and achieving what you want for your life. Regardless of what you have experienced, I believe you are capable of moving forward with courage and resilience. I seek to provide you with a safe space to share your story and to write them together.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR).
No matter where you are in life currently, you have undoubtedly faced challenges and difficulty. If you are coping with past trauma, you may notice situations in the past may be playing a role in your current concerns or significantly impacting your life and relationships. Feelings of shame, guilt, and worries for the future can hold you back from knowing and achieving what you want for your life. Regardless of what you have experienced, I believe you are capable of moving forward with courage and resilience. I seek to provide you with a safe space to share your story and to write them together.
(980) 377-2833 View (980) 377-2833
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.