EMDR Therapists in Lenoir, NC

Photo of Angela Quigley, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A, Counselor
Angela Quigley
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
I have been trained in several evidenced based modalities including EMDR, DBT, CBT, and Trauma Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Life can be hard and overwhelming. Do you need help in processing what you have experienced and in developing the skills to help you move forward in your life? I believe connection plays an important role in the healing process. Connection to self and others can be created through the therapeutic relationship and experiencing someone who listens intently, without judgment, offering a reflection of your unexpressed wants and needs. I enjoy working with people who have an interest in their own personal growth, taking a journey, and trying something new.
I have been trained in several evidenced based modalities including EMDR, DBT, CBT, and Trauma Focused Equine Assisted Psychotherapy.
Life can be hard and overwhelming. Do you need help in processing what you have experienced and in developing the skills to help you move forward in your life? I believe connection plays an important role in the healing process. Connection to self and others can be created through the therapeutic relationship and experiencing someone who listens intently, without judgment, offering a reflection of your unexpressed wants and needs. I enjoy working with people who have an interest in their own personal growth, taking a journey, and trying something new.
(828) 554-7703 View (828) 554-7703
Photo of Jo Ann Orr, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jo Ann Orr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
Waitlist for new clients
I use a mix of EMDR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, body centered practices, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Polyvagal Theory and traditional psychotherapy.
*Wait list only* I enjoy working with and supporting individuals who are curious and motivated to move through the "stuck places" we all find ourselves in from time to time. I believe that our bodies have an inherent wisdom that, when listened to through mindfulness, will help direct and focus the therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and presenting issues including anxiety, depression, relationship/personal growth challenges, as well as people dealing with unresolved overwhelming experiences. I find great joy in walking with people on their journeys towards a more authentic, vibrant self...your own "True North"!
I use a mix of EMDR, Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction, body centered practices, Internal Family Systems, CBT, Polyvagal Theory and traditional psychotherapy.
*Wait list only* I enjoy working with and supporting individuals who are curious and motivated to move through the "stuck places" we all find ourselves in from time to time. I believe that our bodies have an inherent wisdom that, when listened to through mindfulness, will help direct and focus the therapy. I enjoy working with a wide variety of clients and presenting issues including anxiety, depression, relationship/personal growth challenges, as well as people dealing with unresolved overwhelming experiences. I find great joy in walking with people on their journeys towards a more authentic, vibrant self...your own "True North"!
(828) 394-2417 View (828) 394-2417
Photo of Leslie Mckenna, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Mckenna
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
I have been trained in EMDR, which is a specialized approach in treating trauma.
I have been passionate about the care and wellness of adult women since I began practicing in the early 1990's. I have worked in a variety of settings that have given me helpful experience in treating issues that women commonly face such as body shame, unhealthy eating patterns, unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, domestic and verbal abuse. I follow the latest research findings related to the neurological basis behind therapeutic change and make it a point to empower my clients by teaching them everything that I have learned about healthy change and skills that have been shown to nurture a sense of peace and wellbeing.
I have been trained in EMDR, which is a specialized approach in treating trauma.
I have been passionate about the care and wellness of adult women since I began practicing in the early 1990's. I have worked in a variety of settings that have given me helpful experience in treating issues that women commonly face such as body shame, unhealthy eating patterns, unresolved trauma, anxiety, depression, domestic and verbal abuse. I follow the latest research findings related to the neurological basis behind therapeutic change and make it a point to empower my clients by teaching them everything that I have learned about healthy change and skills that have been shown to nurture a sense of peace and wellbeing.
(828) 354-4624 View (828) 354-4624
Photo of Ken Doyle, MA, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Ken Doyle
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
I offer EMDR, Brainspotting, as well as a range of other therapeutic interventions.
My ideal client is anyone who is in need of help, wants to make a change, or interested in bettering their lives. Anyone looking for a therapist who is understanding, accepting, and cares about their overall forward progress.
I offer EMDR, Brainspotting, as well as a range of other therapeutic interventions.
My ideal client is anyone who is in need of help, wants to make a change, or interested in bettering their lives. Anyone looking for a therapist who is understanding, accepting, and cares about their overall forward progress.
(828) 268-3778 View (828) 268-3778
Photo of Lori Breland, MA, NCC, LCMHC, C-DBT, Counselor
Lori Breland
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28645
I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), and Trauma Focused Therapy to ensure the best quality of treatment for you.
I specialize in juvenile females aged 11-17 (18 if still in high school), but also enjoy working with adults. I work with anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, anger management, and a variety of other concerns that come with life. I incorporate a variety of modalities to create a treatment plan specific to your needs. I work closely with persons considered at risk to themselves or others, along with unhealthy sexualized behaviors in teens and adults to ensure a healthy, legal, and safe life.
I also utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), and Trauma Focused Therapy to ensure the best quality of treatment for you.
I specialize in juvenile females aged 11-17 (18 if still in high school), but also enjoy working with adults. I work with anyone struggling with anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, anger management, and a variety of other concerns that come with life. I incorporate a variety of modalities to create a treatment plan specific to your needs. I work closely with persons considered at risk to themselves or others, along with unhealthy sexualized behaviors in teens and adults to ensure a healthy, legal, and safe life.
(828) 319-2897 View (828) 319-2897
Photo of Catherine Herron, LCMHC
Catherine Herron
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645  (Online Only)
Hi! I am Catherine Herron and I am a Licenced Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina. I have been practicing for almost 4 years. I gravitated towards this career because of the joy I find helping others. I
Hi! I am Catherine Herron and I am a Licenced Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC) in North Carolina. I have been practicing for almost 4 years. I gravitated towards this career because of the joy I find helping others. I
(828) 439-0776 View (828) 439-0776
Photo of Liza M. Shaw, MA, LMFT, ACHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liza M. Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28645
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
(828) 202-3074 View (828) 202-3074
Photo of Debra Kay Peters - Wisdom Path, PLLC, Psychologist
Wisdom Path, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28633
If you are looking for quality therapy by clinicians who treat you as a whole, unique person (body, mind, and spirit), Wisdom Path is a good fit for you. Everyone is exposed to multiple stresses, and we struggle with the demands of a fast-paced society. Often, we develop unhealthy ways of compulsively numbing ourselves though work, food, sex, gambling, shopping, substances, or social media. At Wisdom Path, we facilitate you becoming fully present in your life, creating meaning, and developing intimate connections with others. We don't just treat mental health issues; we promote wellness and growth.
If you are looking for quality therapy by clinicians who treat you as a whole, unique person (body, mind, and spirit), Wisdom Path is a good fit for you. Everyone is exposed to multiple stresses, and we struggle with the demands of a fast-paced society. Often, we develop unhealthy ways of compulsively numbing ourselves though work, food, sex, gambling, shopping, substances, or social media. At Wisdom Path, we facilitate you becoming fully present in your life, creating meaning, and developing intimate connections with others. We don't just treat mental health issues; we promote wellness and growth.
(828) 475-8940 View (828) 475-8940
Photo of Kristen Skulicz, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristen Skulicz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28633
Waitlist for new clients
Hello, I have been working in therapy, or mental health and addictions recovery, for the past 20 years. I enjoy working with adults who are going through a transition, change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. Some areas I specialize in include managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, bi-polar, past trauma, parenting struggles, pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders, relationship issues, coping with a loved one's mental health or addiction, and addictions recovery.
Hello, I have been working in therapy, or mental health and addictions recovery, for the past 20 years. I enjoy working with adults who are going through a transition, change, need extra support, or are dealing with on-going struggles. Some areas I specialize in include managing symptoms of depression, anxiety, anger, bi-polar, past trauma, parenting struggles, pregnancy and postpartum mood disorders, relationship issues, coping with a loved one's mental health or addiction, and addictions recovery.
(716) 271-5208 View (716) 271-5208
Photo of Gwynn J Austin, MA, LCMHC
Gwynn J Austin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
People are complex and sometimes need help sorting through difficulties. Do you find yourself stuck in a pattern--a relationship malfunction or an unhealthy life-style--which you have tried to change, and cannot? The key to unlocking the process of change is to develop awareness of the underlying meanings behind these patterns, the "the how and why" of the patterns. When you compassionately understand how your implicit beliefs inform your actions and experience, you can help your system heal. All parts of your system need conscious connection with you, It is designed to heal. My role is to facilitate that natural process.
People are complex and sometimes need help sorting through difficulties. Do you find yourself stuck in a pattern--a relationship malfunction or an unhealthy life-style--which you have tried to change, and cannot? The key to unlocking the process of change is to develop awareness of the underlying meanings behind these patterns, the "the how and why" of the patterns. When you compassionately understand how your implicit beliefs inform your actions and experience, you can help your system heal. All parts of your system need conscious connection with you, It is designed to heal. My role is to facilitate that natural process.
(828) 332-5553 View (828) 332-5553
Photo of Breathe Wellness Counseling - Breathe Wellness Counseling PLLC
Breathe Wellness Counseling PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645  (Online Only)
Empower Your Journey: From Inner Balance to Outer Peace. Healing is a journey that requires understanding, patience, and support.
Empower Your Journey: From Inner Balance to Outer Peace. Healing is a journey that requires understanding, patience, and support.
(828) 662-8922 View (828) 662-8922
Photo of Allison Lane, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lenoir, NC 28633
Not accepting new clients
I specialize in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR and TIST and have received extensive training in each modality.
It takes courage to take the first step to participate in therapy. I begin my work with a focus on relationship building as the therapeutic relationship is essential to a successful therapy experience. I believe it is critical to view clients from a non-judgmental perspective, and recognize that each individual is capable of obtaining a meaningful life. I provide a safe space for clients to address the challenges that prevent them from living the life they desire. My role is to facilitate growth and meaning-making of those experiences that are most relevant to the clients I serve.
I specialize in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, EMDR and TIST and have received extensive training in each modality.
It takes courage to take the first step to participate in therapy. I begin my work with a focus on relationship building as the therapeutic relationship is essential to a successful therapy experience. I believe it is critical to view clients from a non-judgmental perspective, and recognize that each individual is capable of obtaining a meaningful life. I provide a safe space for clients to address the challenges that prevent them from living the life they desire. My role is to facilitate growth and meaning-making of those experiences that are most relevant to the clients I serve.
(828) 471-4590 View (828) 471-4590
Photo of Patricia E Cone, MA, LCMHC
Patricia E Cone
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
Not accepting new clients
I am certified in EMDR Therapy which can be a highly effective, efficient and empowering treatment in dealing with relational "triggers" a person may encounter in day to day living.
**NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME - Working as a licensed counselor for over 30 years has tenderized my heart towards those who want to get "unstuck" from patterns and places we all can find ourselves in. Though I specialize in trauma work and family systems, I work with clients who have anxiety issues, depression, abuse, addictions, sexual trauma, disturbing life events, self concept and life change adjustments. I love what I do and am passionate about walking with people through their pain, shame and fear to a place of hope.
I am certified in EMDR Therapy which can be a highly effective, efficient and empowering treatment in dealing with relational "triggers" a person may encounter in day to day living.
**NOT TAKING NEW CLIENTS AT THIS TIME - Working as a licensed counselor for over 30 years has tenderized my heart towards those who want to get "unstuck" from patterns and places we all can find ourselves in. Though I specialize in trauma work and family systems, I work with clients who have anxiety issues, depression, abuse, addictions, sexual trauma, disturbing life events, self concept and life change adjustments. I love what I do and am passionate about walking with people through their pain, shame and fear to a place of hope.
(305) 290-4308 View (305) 290-4308
Photo of Anquinett L Burnett, MA,  , LCMHC, Counselor
Anquinett L Burnett
Counselor, MA, , LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lenoir, NC 28645
Not accepting new clients
We all have obstacles in this life that we must navigate. The part that falls on us is how we cope with these obstacles. You have to make decisions that could hinder our growth. You may become overwhelmed and do nothing. But guess what, that is still a decision. My role is to help guide you to the path that is best for you. I offer different techniques that are shaped to help you obtain the answers that you are seeking. As a team we will develop coping skills, identify patterns and learn to make better decisions.
We all have obstacles in this life that we must navigate. The part that falls on us is how we cope with these obstacles. You have to make decisions that could hinder our growth. You may become overwhelmed and do nothing. But guess what, that is still a decision. My role is to help guide you to the path that is best for you. I offer different techniques that are shaped to help you obtain the answers that you are seeking. As a team we will develop coping skills, identify patterns and learn to make better decisions.
(828) 528-3381 View (828) 528-3381

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Jessica Spears, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Spears
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Granite Falls, NC 28630
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) through EMDRIA.
My journey of helping individuals and families began as a hospice social worker. I worked closely with individuals and families to provide a "total care" approach while offering guidance through the emotional process of death. Now in private practice, I have worked with many cases and continue to use the "total care" approach with each client. I welcome all individuals and find incorporating your values/beliefs in therapy is supportive of the healing process. As I share with clients, we have to embrace our past, present and future to begin the healing process.
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) through EMDRIA.
My journey of helping individuals and families began as a hospice social worker. I worked closely with individuals and families to provide a "total care" approach while offering guidance through the emotional process of death. Now in private practice, I have worked with many cases and continue to use the "total care" approach with each client. I welcome all individuals and find incorporating your values/beliefs in therapy is supportive of the healing process. As I share with clients, we have to embrace our past, present and future to begin the healing process.
(828) 705-3431 View (828) 705-3431

Online Therapists

Photo of Nancy Padron, LCHMC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nancy Padron
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCHMC
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Waitlist for new clients
I offer a client-centered approach and believe counseling is a process by which we gain insight into ourselves. I often utilize a holistic approach with clients, working on the mind and body connection. Through the process, I incorporate other approaches that best fit the client. The approaches I may use are Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Reality Therapy, Existential, and EMDR. Regardless of the approach, I will help clients identify goals, obstacles, and ways to meet his/her goals and overcome obstacles.
I offer a client-centered approach and believe counseling is a process by which we gain insight into ourselves. I often utilize a holistic approach with clients, working on the mind and body connection. Through the process, I incorporate other approaches that best fit the client. The approaches I may use are Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Behavior Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Reality Therapy, Existential, and EMDR. Regardless of the approach, I will help clients identify goals, obstacles, and ways to meet his/her goals and overcome obstacles.
(828) 759-5538 x1 View (828) 759-5538 x1
Photo of Kristin Franks, MS, LCMHC, CLC, Counselor
Kristin Franks
Counselor, MS, LCMHC, CLC
Verified Verified
Greensboro, NC 27403
I'm skilled in attachment styles, Imago Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, PREPARE/ENRICH, & EMDR, which I implement with a balanced, dynamic, Christian approach.
Are you searching for relationship satisfaction? Has dating been difficult for you? Do you feel unable to experience a mutually loving bond with someone who wants the same things as you do? As an attachment therapist, I love helping people achieve relational fulfillment. Intimacy is challenging, yet rewarding, when you have healthy and secure attachments with others. Whether you're single, dating, or newly married, I'd love to work with you! I can help you understand your attachment style, and how that plays a key role in the formation and development of a healthy, fulfilling relationship with the person you love.
I'm skilled in attachment styles, Imago Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy, PREPARE/ENRICH, & EMDR, which I implement with a balanced, dynamic, Christian approach.
Are you searching for relationship satisfaction? Has dating been difficult for you? Do you feel unable to experience a mutually loving bond with someone who wants the same things as you do? As an attachment therapist, I love helping people achieve relational fulfillment. Intimacy is challenging, yet rewarding, when you have healthy and secure attachments with others. Whether you're single, dating, or newly married, I'd love to work with you! I can help you understand your attachment style, and how that plays a key role in the formation and development of a healthy, fulfilling relationship with the person you love.
(336) 443-9464 View (336) 443-9464
Photo of Lindsey M McIntyre, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey M McIntyre
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (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.
(704) 459-5010 View (704) 459-5010
Photo of Taylor Houchens, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Houchens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28804
In my practice, I utilize a number of trauma informed approaches such as EMDR (Online or In-Person), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, and more to help you resolve these early childhood traumas so that you can experience the peace, joy, and freedom in your life that you are desiring and worthy of having.
I specialize in working with boys, teenagers, men, women, and families. If this is you, it is my goal to help you overcome the barriers and problems in your life that are keeping you from experiencing the freedom you are desiring. Often times, these problems are the result of trauma from childhood that is still unresolved. Perhaps you're experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, sexual abuse, addiction (sexual, drug/alcohol, work), lack of self confidence, family issues, relationship difficulties, negative coping habits, physical or auto-immune disorders, or more. If so, I can help.
In my practice, I utilize a number of trauma informed approaches such as EMDR (Online or In-Person), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, and more to help you resolve these early childhood traumas so that you can experience the peace, joy, and freedom in your life that you are desiring and worthy of having.
I specialize in working with boys, teenagers, men, women, and families. If this is you, it is my goal to help you overcome the barriers and problems in your life that are keeping you from experiencing the freedom you are desiring. Often times, these problems are the result of trauma from childhood that is still unresolved. Perhaps you're experiencing anxiety, depression, grief, PTSD, sexual abuse, addiction (sexual, drug/alcohol, work), lack of self confidence, family issues, relationship difficulties, negative coping habits, physical or auto-immune disorders, or more. If so, I can help.
(828) 622-4184 View (828) 622-4184
Photo of Kenya Lenae Ingram - Mind Wellness Solutions, PLLC, EdS, LCMHC, LCAS-A, CCTP-II, EMDR
Mind Wellness Solutions, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, EdS, LCMHC, LCAS-A, CCTP-II, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28215  (Online Only)
I am also an EMDR trained therapist.
Do you suffer from excessive worry, fear, anxiety, sadness? Are you disconnected or overwhelmed? Are they keeping you from the happiness and success that you want out of life? If you feel unsure how to navigate through daily life stress; you are not alone. Being a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor I have the skills and training to help you overcome life’s toughest challenges.
I am also an EMDR trained therapist.
Do you suffer from excessive worry, fear, anxiety, sadness? Are you disconnected or overwhelmed? Are they keeping you from the happiness and success that you want out of life? If you feel unsure how to navigate through daily life stress; you are not alone. Being a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor I have the skills and training to help you overcome life’s toughest challenges.
(704) 946-5890 View (704) 946-5890

See more therapy options for Lenoir

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.