EMDR Therapists in Fort Bragg, NC

Photo of Farid Awad, DMin, MDiv, MA, LCMHC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Farid Awad
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, MDiv, MA, LCMHC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fort Bragg, NC 28310
My approach for each client is personalized and eclectic which includes: Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Solution Focused Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Existential Therapy as we work towards a fulfilling, gratifying, and purposeful life.
I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University in 2020. I also completed my Doctorate of Ministry in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University Theological Seminary in 2011. From 2008 to 2017, I served on active duty as an Army Chaplain, where I conducted 3,000+ hours providing pastoral counseling for Soldiers and their Family members dealing with marital conflict, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, moral injuries, anxiety, depression, and numerous other issues. I trained 62 weekend marriage retreats for thousands of couples. I continue to serve as a Chaplain in the North Carolina National Guard.
My approach for each client is personalized and eclectic which includes: Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Solution Focused Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and Existential Therapy as we work towards a fulfilling, gratifying, and purposeful life.
I received my Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Liberty University in 2020. I also completed my Doctorate of Ministry in Pastoral Counseling from Liberty University Theological Seminary in 2011. From 2008 to 2017, I served on active duty as an Army Chaplain, where I conducted 3,000+ hours providing pastoral counseling for Soldiers and their Family members dealing with marital conflict, Post-traumatic Stress Disorder, moral injuries, anxiety, depression, and numerous other issues. I trained 62 weekend marriage retreats for thousands of couples. I continue to serve as a Chaplain in the North Carolina National Guard.
(910) 659-8173 View (910) 659-8173
Photo of Kari Whirry, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kari Whirry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Bragg, NC 28307  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained and have experience using a multitude of modalities to help clients achieve their goals.
As a clinical social worker, I believe in meeting clients where they are. I strive to provide a therapeutic environment that helps you achieve your goals and become the best version of yourself. I have a casual approach to therapy and believe that you are the expert in your own life experience. I want to work collaboratively, combining our shared expertise to help you become the most healthy version of yourself.
I am EMDR trained and have experience using a multitude of modalities to help clients achieve their goals.
As a clinical social worker, I believe in meeting clients where they are. I strive to provide a therapeutic environment that helps you achieve your goals and become the best version of yourself. I have a casual approach to therapy and believe that you are the expert in your own life experience. I want to work collaboratively, combining our shared expertise to help you become the most healthy version of yourself.
(910) 877-8990 View (910) 877-8990
Photo of Renee B Wilson, MA, LCMHC , NCC, LCAS, RYT
Renee B Wilson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC , NCC, LCAS, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Bragg, NC 28307
Successful Therapy is conducted utilizing evidence-based modalities including: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Informed Interventions, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR and Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and Emotional Freedom.
It is my pleasure to work with adolescents, adults, couples, veterans, and active-duty military, as well as with groups. I enjoy collaborating with people of diverse racial, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds who have experienced trauma either in childhood, adulthood, or through the military service and who are seeking a safe place to overcome life’s adversities, learn a new way to function, and live a victorious life. I work with issues related to ADHD, anger, anxiety, drug/alcohol use, panic, PTSD, personal growth, racial identity, self-esteem, sexual assault, stress, stressor-related disorders, and career development.
Successful Therapy is conducted utilizing evidence-based modalities including: Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy Informed Interventions, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Motivational Interviewing, Narrative Therapy, Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR and Yoga, Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and Emotional Freedom.
It is my pleasure to work with adolescents, adults, couples, veterans, and active-duty military, as well as with groups. I enjoy collaborating with people of diverse racial, spiritual, and cultural backgrounds who have experienced trauma either in childhood, adulthood, or through the military service and who are seeking a safe place to overcome life’s adversities, learn a new way to function, and live a victorious life. I work with issues related to ADHD, anger, anxiety, drug/alcohol use, panic, PTSD, personal growth, racial identity, self-esteem, sexual assault, stress, stressor-related disorders, and career development.
(910) 714-5052 View (910) 714-5052
Photo of Dr. Mei-Chuan Wang - Wang Psychological Services PLLC, PhD, HSP-P, LP, LCMHCS, Psychologist
Wang Psychological Services PLLC
Psychologist, PhD, HSP-P, LP, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fort Bragg, NC 28307
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression, anger, anxiety, or major life changes? You don’t have to handle everything on your own, that’s why we’re here to help. Let’s get you back to a place of fulfillment, self-discovery, and acceptance. We are licensed Psychologists and Clinical Mental Health Counselor. We are here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Our goal for therapy is to help and empower you to use your strengths to find new ways of coping with life's challenges.
Are you struggling with issues related to trauma, depression, anger, anxiety, or major life changes? You don’t have to handle everything on your own, that’s why we’re here to help. Let’s get you back to a place of fulfillment, self-discovery, and acceptance. We are licensed Psychologists and Clinical Mental Health Counselor. We are here to support you on your journey toward healing and self-discovery. Our goal for therapy is to help and empower you to use your strengths to find new ways of coping with life's challenges.
(910) 238-3609 View (910) 238-3609
Photo of Verna Dority - Carolina Counseling Services, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carolina Counseling Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Bragg, NC 28307
Here at Carolina Counseling Services, your goals are our goals. Everyone is unique which is why we contract with experienced, licensed therapists with a variety of specialties. Our independently contracted therapists enjoy working with couples, adults, teens and children. We also respect and enjoy working with the military, understanding the unique challenges of military life.
Here at Carolina Counseling Services, your goals are our goals. Everyone is unique which is why we contract with experienced, licensed therapists with a variety of specialties. Our independently contracted therapists enjoy working with couples, adults, teens and children. We also respect and enjoy working with the military, understanding the unique challenges of military life.
(910) 485-6336 View (910) 485-6336
Photo of Shenae Whitehead - Heart to Heart Counseling & Wellness Ctr PLLC, PhD, MA, LPA, Counselor
Heart to Heart Counseling & Wellness Ctr PLLC
Counselor, PhD, MA, LPA
Verified Verified
Fort Bragg, NC 28307
Through the use of individual and family therapy, our agency works with individuals and families in order to promote optimal emotional, physical, social, and mental well-being. The overall goal for therapy is to provide the opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and insight within a safe, supportive environment. The therapeutic approaches that we use are client-specific and tailored to meet the individual's needs. We use an eclectic approach that facilitates personal growth and positive change. Our expertise extends across a variety of populations.
Through the use of individual and family therapy, our agency works with individuals and families in order to promote optimal emotional, physical, social, and mental well-being. The overall goal for therapy is to provide the opportunity for growth, self-discovery, and insight within a safe, supportive environment. The therapeutic approaches that we use are client-specific and tailored to meet the individual's needs. We use an eclectic approach that facilitates personal growth and positive change. Our expertise extends across a variety of populations.
(910) 817-2650 View (910) 817-2650
Photo of Maria D. Marquez - Inner Pathways Counseling Service, MA, LMFT, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Inner Pathways Counseling Service
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Bragg, NC 28307
We provide child, adolescent, family, couples, individual, and group counseling. Periodically we facilitate psycho-educational groups on various topics. We are a bilingual group in Fayetteville NC. and North Myrtle Beach with combined experience working with individuals with anger management, assertiveness, parenting, stress management, sexual dysfunction, and self-esteem issues.
We provide child, adolescent, family, couples, individual, and group counseling. Periodically we facilitate psycho-educational groups on various topics. We are a bilingual group in Fayetteville NC. and North Myrtle Beach with combined experience working with individuals with anger management, assertiveness, parenting, stress management, sexual dysfunction, and self-esteem issues.
(910) 218-8060 View (910) 218-8060
Photo of Amber Kennedy, MA, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Kennedy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Fort Bragg, NC 28310
I know that making the decision to contact a therapist can be difficult for some and my goal is to make the time spent as welcoming as possible.
I know that making the decision to contact a therapist can be difficult for some and my goal is to make the time spent as welcoming as possible.
(910) 387-4423 View (910) 387-4423
Photo of Dr. Bianca Ramosdelrio Elliott The Conversation Location Pllc, LMFT, LMFTS, EMDR, Trauma, Reiki, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Bianca Ramosdelrio Elliott The Conversation Location Pllc
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LMFTS, EMDR, Trauma, Reiki
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fort Bragg, NC 28307
We all carry baggage. Both the past and the present can weigh us down. Make time for self-care whenever you can. Why not get going right now? I/We can serve you to be the best version of yourself or in relationships. We are connected to Cumberland, Moore, Harnett, Robinson, New Hanover, and Lee counties in North Carolina. Through Dr Bs involvement in and with the military and 1st responder community, we understand the unique challenges that 1st responder, military personnel, and their families face and are proud to serve those who serve us. Call or email me to let go of the past, take control of the present, and plan for the future.
We all carry baggage. Both the past and the present can weigh us down. Make time for self-care whenever you can. Why not get going right now? I/We can serve you to be the best version of yourself or in relationships. We are connected to Cumberland, Moore, Harnett, Robinson, New Hanover, and Lee counties in North Carolina. Through Dr Bs involvement in and with the military and 1st responder community, we understand the unique challenges that 1st responder, military personnel, and their families face and are proud to serve those who serve us. Call or email me to let go of the past, take control of the present, and plan for the future.
(828) 600-5226 View (828) 600-5226
Photo of Lantz Smith, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lantz Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fort Bragg, NC 28307  (Online Only)
Service Members, Veterans, and their Families- It's important to acknowledge that serving our Great Nation comes with its fair share of challenges. These challenges can have a lasting impact on our nation's heroes and their loved ones. The process of reintegrating after deployments, the loss of community during transitions and relocations, and exposure to traumatic events are just a few examples of the difficulties that individuals, couples, and families may face.
Service Members, Veterans, and their Families- It's important to acknowledge that serving our Great Nation comes with its fair share of challenges. These challenges can have a lasting impact on our nation's heroes and their loved ones. The process of reintegrating after deployments, the loss of community during transitions and relocations, and exposure to traumatic events are just a few examples of the difficulties that individuals, couples, and families may face.
(910) 812-9569 View (910) 812-9569
Photo of Richard Charles Kurr, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, ICAADC, NCC
Richard Charles Kurr
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS, ICAADC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fort Bragg, NC 28310  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma and addictive use disorders. I often work with all populations and concerns from the age of thirteen and above. Other counseling work I perform is family, couples, and LGBTQA+ concerns. I believe strongly in a people-first approach! We are all endowed with great resiliency and strength. I want to help you realize your potential, overcome challenges, and feel empowered to deal with future obstacles. The aim of every good therapist is to encourage autonomy and self-reliance. Ofrezco psicoterapia en Español.
I specialize in trauma and addictive use disorders. I often work with all populations and concerns from the age of thirteen and above. Other counseling work I perform is family, couples, and LGBTQA+ concerns. I believe strongly in a people-first approach! We are all endowed with great resiliency and strength. I want to help you realize your potential, overcome challenges, and feel empowered to deal with future obstacles. The aim of every good therapist is to encourage autonomy and self-reliance. Ofrezco psicoterapia en Español.
(910) 247-9050 View (910) 247-9050
Photo of Kari Bustillos - Align Counseling and Wellness, PLLC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Align Counseling and Wellness, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fort Bragg, NC 28307
Welcome to Align Counseling and Wellness, PLLC! We are dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and empowering space for individuals seeking support and guidance on their mental health journey. Our practice is founded on a holistic and client-centered approach, acknowledging the unique needs of each individual who comes to us. We are devoted to providing a secure, inviting, and supportive atmosphere for those seeking help and direction on their path to mental wellness.
Welcome to Align Counseling and Wellness, PLLC! We are dedicated to creating a safe, welcoming, and empowering space for individuals seeking support and guidance on their mental health journey. Our practice is founded on a holistic and client-centered approach, acknowledging the unique needs of each individual who comes to us. We are devoted to providing a secure, inviting, and supportive atmosphere for those seeking help and direction on their path to mental wellness.
(910) 773-4421 View (910) 773-4421

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Lynette Davis, LCMHC
Lynette Davis
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Please know that I have education in using EMDR, CPT, CBT, ACT, DBT, and Solution-Focused.
Exploring the stuck places of your life with someone who is nonjudgmental and goal-focused can be a real game changer, moving you forward toward your hopes and dreams. I not only listen, but help you to solve problems. I am a psychotherapist working with individuals and families to reduce mood, relationship conflicts, and parenting concerns. We target specific goals of change and identify steps toward those goals. I use science-based interventions exploring past and current patterns that hold you back from making progress. Most of my clinical experience has been treating depression, anxiety, grief, bipolar, trauma, and PTSD.
Please know that I have education in using EMDR, CPT, CBT, ACT, DBT, and Solution-Focused.
Exploring the stuck places of your life with someone who is nonjudgmental and goal-focused can be a real game changer, moving you forward toward your hopes and dreams. I not only listen, but help you to solve problems. I am a psychotherapist working with individuals and families to reduce mood, relationship conflicts, and parenting concerns. We target specific goals of change and identify steps toward those goals. I use science-based interventions exploring past and current patterns that hold you back from making progress. Most of my clinical experience has been treating depression, anxiety, grief, bipolar, trauma, and PTSD.
(910) 387-4393 View (910) 387-4393
Photo of Lauren Beeman, LCSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Lauren Beeman
Pre-Licensed Professional, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314
EMDR has been successfully used to treat the following: Anxiety and Panic attacks, Depression, PTSD, Anger, Phobias, Sleep Problems, Grief and Loss, Additions, Pain, Performance Anxiety, and Feelings of Worthless/Low Self-Esteem.
Welcome! My name is Lauren Bissette. I have been a social worker since 2015 with experience with many diverse populations. I am a great listener, patient, and here for you!
EMDR has been successfully used to treat the following: Anxiety and Panic attacks, Depression, PTSD, Anger, Phobias, Sleep Problems, Grief and Loss, Additions, Pain, Performance Anxiety, and Feelings of Worthless/Low Self-Esteem.
Welcome! My name is Lauren Bissette. I have been a social worker since 2015 with experience with many diverse populations. I am a great listener, patient, and here for you!
(857) 578-1710 View (857) 578-1710
Photo of Meagan C Mccabe, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Meagan C Mccabe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303  (Online Only)
I have completed the Level 1 and Level 2 Training for EMDR and use it in sessions.
I am a virtual only therapist with over 15 years of experience seeing clients throughout the North Carolina region. I specialize in empowering individuals or couples working through life transitions. Whether it is healing past traumas, prioritizing self-care, setting healthy boundaries, or identifying and breaking unhealthy patterns; I work from a strength-based and client-centered stance that focuses on helping clients create or enhance healthy and holistic relationships with themselves and others. To quote Brene Brown, I believe "owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do".
I have completed the Level 1 and Level 2 Training for EMDR and use it in sessions.
I am a virtual only therapist with over 15 years of experience seeing clients throughout the North Carolina region. I specialize in empowering individuals or couples working through life transitions. Whether it is healing past traumas, prioritizing self-care, setting healthy boundaries, or identifying and breaking unhealthy patterns; I work from a strength-based and client-centered stance that focuses on helping clients create or enhance healthy and holistic relationships with themselves and others. To quote Brene Brown, I believe "owning our story and loving ourselves through that process is the bravest thing that we will ever do".
(910) 302-5392 View (910) 302-5392
Photo of Elizabeth Meredith, MS, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Elizabeth Meredith
Counselor, MS, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained and am a Nationally Certified Counselor.
I attended Radford University College of Graduate Studies and Research and hold a master's of science in Counseling and Human Development. My experience comes from working with adults and adolescents in varying walks of life. I have worked primarily with active duty service members and their family members. I strive to provide an environment free of judgment that honors race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and religion. My clients deal with PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and attachment or codependency issues.
I am EMDR trained and am a Nationally Certified Counselor.
I attended Radford University College of Graduate Studies and Research and hold a master's of science in Counseling and Human Development. My experience comes from working with adults and adolescents in varying walks of life. I have worked primarily with active duty service members and their family members. I strive to provide an environment free of judgment that honors race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, and religion. My clients deal with PTSD, anxiety, depression, grief, loss, and attachment or codependency issues.
(910) 569-9380 View (910) 569-9380
Photo of Bria White, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bria White
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28303  (Online Only)
I am also EMDR trained.
Immediate daytime availability virtually on Monday through Thursday. There are many obstacles life may throw at us. Often these obstacles are unexpected and throw us off our desired path. Sometimes it may even feel that we have lost our way and our original path is out of sight, unable to be found. You may start to feel defeated or overwhelmed by what to do next. But with a little help, there is hope that you can rediscover your path or create an even better one!
I am also EMDR trained.
Immediate daytime availability virtually on Monday through Thursday. There are many obstacles life may throw at us. Often these obstacles are unexpected and throw us off our desired path. Sometimes it may even feel that we have lost our way and our original path is out of sight, unable to be found. You may start to feel defeated or overwhelmed by what to do next. But with a little help, there is hope that you can rediscover your path or create an even better one!
(984) 305-3762 View (984) 305-3762
Photo of Dawn Shea-Frick, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dawn Shea-Frick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28314
I am an IFS trained therapist; with training also in EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and NARM.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed, depressed or disconnected and wanting to make lasting change in your life and relationships? Feel like you have tried everything you know to do? Still nothing seems to work and you just want to feel better. I believe that many symptoms and problems are actually survival strategies that emerge from our need to cope with the hardships of life. These could be depression, shame, perfectionism and fear of rejection to name a few. My passion is helping people identify and understand their survival strategies and create new patterns that improve their lives and connection to self and others.
I am an IFS trained therapist; with training also in EMDR, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and NARM.
Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed, depressed or disconnected and wanting to make lasting change in your life and relationships? Feel like you have tried everything you know to do? Still nothing seems to work and you just want to feel better. I believe that many symptoms and problems are actually survival strategies that emerge from our need to cope with the hardships of life. These could be depression, shame, perfectionism and fear of rejection to name a few. My passion is helping people identify and understand their survival strategies and create new patterns that improve their lives and connection to self and others.
(910) 797-4404 View (910) 797-4404
Photo of Debra Johnson - Life Matrix NC, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Life Matrix NC, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28301
Other specialty training includes, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), eye movement desensitization reprocessing ( EMDR) and emotionally focused therapy (EFT).
Navigating life's transitions can be challenging at times. During those times, when you are living in overwhelm and wondering about which decision is best for you in that moment, who do you rely on to process that information? Where and who is your support system? Do you know what you need or want in that moment? You need a person and space where safety abounds and judgement does not exist. Let's talk!
Other specialty training includes, trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (TF-CBT), eye movement desensitization reprocessing ( EMDR) and emotionally focused therapy (EFT).
Navigating life's transitions can be challenging at times. During those times, when you are living in overwhelm and wondering about which decision is best for you in that moment, who do you rely on to process that information? Where and who is your support system? Do you know what you need or want in that moment? You need a person and space where safety abounds and judgement does not exist. Let's talk!
(910) 356-9441 x00 View (910) 356-9441 x00
Photo of Michelle R Walters, MA, LCMHC
Michelle R Walters
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28305
Evidence based trauma training such as: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), and The ARAMMU relationship checkup for couples.
Licensed in New Jersey and North Carolina. Easy scheduling and intake process. If you want to grow, create, "thrive instead of survive", improve your work, life, relationship, marriage, or just try to problem solve stuck areas, the tools are here! I especially enjoy using evidence-based treatments that empower clients and produce RESULTS! My motto is: My job is to work myself out of a job! If this resonates with you, call or email today!
Evidence based trauma training such as: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), and The ARAMMU relationship checkup for couples.
Licensed in New Jersey and North Carolina. Easy scheduling and intake process. If you want to grow, create, "thrive instead of survive", improve your work, life, relationship, marriage, or just try to problem solve stuck areas, the tools are here! I especially enjoy using evidence-based treatments that empower clients and produce RESULTS! My motto is: My job is to work myself out of a job! If this resonates with you, call or email today!
(910) 886-1595 View (910) 886-1595

See more therapy options for Fort Bragg

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.