EMDR Therapists in Lumberton, NC

Photo of Megan Hammonds, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Megan Hammonds
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28360  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR.
I have been working as a counselor since 2017 and have experience in multiple settings including higher education, private practice, and community nonprofit. My heart for survivors of interpersonal violence, including sexual assault, is what led me to counseling. However, I serve clients with many struggles and concerns. I do not want anyone's past experiences or negative core beliefs to hold them back from living a meaningful life.
I am trained in EMDR.
I have been working as a counselor since 2017 and have experience in multiple settings including higher education, private practice, and community nonprofit. My heart for survivors of interpersonal violence, including sexual assault, is what led me to counseling. However, I serve clients with many struggles and concerns. I do not want anyone's past experiences or negative core beliefs to hold them back from living a meaningful life.
(910) 807-7803 View (910) 807-7803
Photo of Christopher J Ketchman - Haymount Institute for Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Haymount Institute for Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
We have clinicians skilled in Clinical Hypnosis and EMDR just to name a few.
The power to make positive changes is within us all. The goal of holistic wellness is to "change the lens" and give a healthier perspective for a peaceful and more content life. Our intention is to provide a confidential, professional and supportive environment in which individuals and families can identify problem areas, explore what prevents the problem from being solved, and help you develop and learn skills that can enhance your quality of life.
We have clinicians skilled in Clinical Hypnosis and EMDR just to name a few.
The power to make positive changes is within us all. The goal of holistic wellness is to "change the lens" and give a healthier perspective for a peaceful and more content life. Our intention is to provide a confidential, professional and supportive environment in which individuals and families can identify problem areas, explore what prevents the problem from being solved, and help you develop and learn skills that can enhance your quality of life.
(910) 719-3087 View (910) 719-3087
Photo of Denise Bostick-Fairley - Symmetry Health Services, PLLC, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, RPT, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Symmetry Health Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, LCAS, RPT, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lumberton, NC 28358
Hello! Welcome to Symmetry Health Services, PLLC (SHS). During the therapeutic process at SHS, our goal is to provide our clients with guidance, insight, and tools that will result in self-empowerment and wellness. We are equipped and ready to make a special effort to advance each person to uncover the best solution for his or her problem. Our approach to therapy is to help individuals, families, and couples make sense of what has happened in their life, recognize how it continues to affect them, and make changes that allow them to move forward to accomplish their goals.
Hello! Welcome to Symmetry Health Services, PLLC (SHS). During the therapeutic process at SHS, our goal is to provide our clients with guidance, insight, and tools that will result in self-empowerment and wellness. We are equipped and ready to make a special effort to advance each person to uncover the best solution for his or her problem. Our approach to therapy is to help individuals, families, and couples make sense of what has happened in their life, recognize how it continues to affect them, and make changes that allow them to move forward to accomplish their goals.
(910) 501-2436 View (910) 501-2436
Photo of Laura Gose, MA, LCMHC
Laura Gose
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358
The first step into counseling can be difficult one, but I will provide you with a caring and safe environment which will make a positive difference in your life. My goal is to enhance your life and give you the skills to deal with today's challenges. I strive to be a place of help, hope, and healing for families and individuals experiencing emotional, relational, spiritual, and marital distress by providing promote healthy relationships and improve the overall well being of our clients through high-quality mental health services which focus on the needs of families and individuals.
The first step into counseling can be difficult one, but I will provide you with a caring and safe environment which will make a positive difference in your life. My goal is to enhance your life and give you the skills to deal with today's challenges. I strive to be a place of help, hope, and healing for families and individuals experiencing emotional, relational, spiritual, and marital distress by providing promote healthy relationships and improve the overall well being of our clients through high-quality mental health services which focus on the needs of families and individuals.
(910) 416-5925 View (910) 416-5925
Photo of Enjonae Anderson - Mended Hearts Counseling, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS
Mended Hearts Counseling
MA, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
Lumberton, NC 28358
We find great joy in working with women, adolescents, young adults and families. We offer therapeutic support for challenges and transitions that may occur across the life span. Since 2011 we have specialized in treating women during their reproductive and mothering years. This includes challenges not limited to fertility concerns, prenatal/postpartum mood disorders and trauma.
We find great joy in working with women, adolescents, young adults and families. We offer therapeutic support for challenges and transitions that may occur across the life span. Since 2011 we have specialized in treating women during their reproductive and mothering years. This includes challenges not limited to fertility concerns, prenatal/postpartum mood disorders and trauma.
(336) 717-0352 View (336) 717-0352

Online Therapists

Photo of Marina Cline - Hearth Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, MA, LCMHCS, PMH-C
Hearth Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Raleigh, NC 27615
I am a Certified Perinatal Mental Health and EMDR therapist.
Motherhood can be challenging, and adjusting to your new life can be more complicated than expected. Whether you're facing the aftermath of a traumatic birth experience, struggling with the challenges of postpartum depression, or navigating the complexities of parenthood, I am committed to walking alongside you every step of the way. Struggling with infertility can be a profoundly emotional and isolating experience. Whether you're facing difficulties conceiving, undergoing fertility treatments, or coping with pregnancy loss, know that you're not alone.
I am a Certified Perinatal Mental Health and EMDR therapist.
Motherhood can be challenging, and adjusting to your new life can be more complicated than expected. Whether you're facing the aftermath of a traumatic birth experience, struggling with the challenges of postpartum depression, or navigating the complexities of parenthood, I am committed to walking alongside you every step of the way. Struggling with infertility can be a profoundly emotional and isolating experience. Whether you're facing difficulties conceiving, undergoing fertility treatments, or coping with pregnancy loss, know that you're not alone.
(984) 213-5506 View (984) 213-5506
Photo of Deborah Ann King - Zoe Services, PLLC, MA, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zoe Services, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chapel Hill, NC 27516
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) by the EMDR Institute.
Sometimes in life we need someone to come along side us and walk with us for a while on our journey. I would describe myself as a sojourner. I provide a positive, nonjudgmental environment to see individuals as they work on addressing challenges they are facing. I work with teens and adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, infertility, life transitions, grief and loss along with parenting related stressors. Some of my speciality areas include: Postpartum issues, maternal mental health and EMDR. I also provide help to other professionals to address secondary trauma, compassion fatigue and "burn out".
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) by the EMDR Institute.
Sometimes in life we need someone to come along side us and walk with us for a while on our journey. I would describe myself as a sojourner. I provide a positive, nonjudgmental environment to see individuals as they work on addressing challenges they are facing. I work with teens and adults to address issues including depression, anxiety, infertility, life transitions, grief and loss along with parenting related stressors. Some of my speciality areas include: Postpartum issues, maternal mental health and EMDR. I also provide help to other professionals to address secondary trauma, compassion fatigue and "burn out".
(984) 201-7693 View (984) 201-7693
Photo of Joseph Leblanc, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joseph Leblanc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified EMDR therapist and I use EMDR to treat PTSD issues, depression, anxiety and couples issues.
I enjoy working with clients who are ready to make changes in their lives, whether this be around mental health, substance, or couples issues. I also enjoy working with clients who need help in figuring out a direction they want to go with their life.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and I use EMDR to treat PTSD issues, depression, anxiety and couples issues.
I enjoy working with clients who are ready to make changes in their lives, whether this be around mental health, substance, or couples issues. I also enjoy working with clients who need help in figuring out a direction they want to go with their life.
(910) 653-1257 View (910) 653-1257
Photo of Buffy Taylor, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Buffy Taylor
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
My therapeutic approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Reality-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I specialize in supporting individuals who face depression, anxiety, mood/behavioral issues, and trauma. My expertise lies in working with survivors of sexual trauma and abuse, offering compassionate guidance and utilizing evidence-based therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help process and overcome past barriers. Additionally, as an Addictions Specialist, I am committed to assisting those navigating substance use and recovery.
My therapeutic approach combines Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Reality-Based Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
I specialize in supporting individuals who face depression, anxiety, mood/behavioral issues, and trauma. My expertise lies in working with survivors of sexual trauma and abuse, offering compassionate guidance and utilizing evidence-based therapies such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to help process and overcome past barriers. Additionally, as an Addictions Specialist, I am committed to assisting those navigating substance use and recovery.
(910) 812-3496 View (910) 812-3496
Photo of Katy Murphy, LCMHCA, LCAS-A, Counselor
Katy Murphy
Counselor, LCMHCA, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Durham, NC 27713  (Online Only)
I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment and Polyvagal theories, somatic and mindfulness-based practices, and EMDR.
I believe you are the expert on whatever it is you’re going through. You know best what you need, even if it feels unclear right now. I will work with you at your pace, wherever you may be at this moment, to help you feel supported, empowered, and at peace as you move toward your goals. With a foundation of trust and mutual respect, we will create a treatment plan that honors who you are, what you value, and where you want to be.
I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches, including Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Attachment and Polyvagal theories, somatic and mindfulness-based practices, and EMDR.
I believe you are the expert on whatever it is you’re going through. You know best what you need, even if it feels unclear right now. I will work with you at your pace, wherever you may be at this moment, to help you feel supported, empowered, and at peace as you move toward your goals. With a foundation of trust and mutual respect, we will create a treatment plan that honors who you are, what you value, and where you want to be.
(984) 339-0632 View (984) 339-0632
Photo of Ella Deaver, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ella Deaver
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I offer EMDR Therapy as a specialized tool to address prior Trauma.
Accepting New Clients! It is brave to work on yourself in therapy. Therapy is helpful for all kinds of people. It helps to address issues you are facing & can help with setting other life goals in the journey of self-improvement. Therapy is for anybody- even if you've never considered it before. My passion is helping people to address their needs, to teach skills for improved emotional functioning and to ensure that therapy is a safe place and space for my client.
I offer EMDR Therapy as a specialized tool to address prior Trauma.
Accepting New Clients! It is brave to work on yourself in therapy. Therapy is helpful for all kinds of people. It helps to address issues you are facing & can help with setting other life goals in the journey of self-improvement. Therapy is for anybody- even if you've never considered it before. My passion is helping people to address their needs, to teach skills for improved emotional functioning and to ensure that therapy is a safe place and space for my client.
(910) 541-5603 View (910) 541-5603
Photo of Charles Noles, MDiv, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Charles Noles
Counselor, MDiv, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540  (Online Only)
I specialize in using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), and solution-focused therapy to help my clients achieve their goals.
As a licensed therapist and military veteran, I am particularly drawn to helping active duty service members, veterans, retirees, and their families overcome mental health issues. My ideal clients are seeking support and guidance in overcoming challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. They are ready to commit to the therapeutic process to make positive life changes. They value honesty, openness, and the opportunity to explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment.
I specialize in using cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), and solution-focused therapy to help my clients achieve their goals.
As a licensed therapist and military veteran, I am particularly drawn to helping active duty service members, veterans, retirees, and their families overcome mental health issues. My ideal clients are seeking support and guidance in overcoming challenges such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and relationship problems. They are ready to commit to the therapeutic process to make positive life changes. They value honesty, openness, and the opportunity to explore their thoughts and feelings in a safe, supportive, and non-judgmental environment.
(910) 504-9365 View (910) 504-9365
Photo of Alexis Gunipero Bunt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Gunipero Bunt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pittsboro, NC 27312
I am EMDR trained, Level 2 training in Gottman Method for Couples, Sandtray trained, as well as a plethora of experience in other modalities including CBT and DBT.
I am honored you are here and I am hopeful that together, we can collaboratively begin a journey in which we help you to find a sense of balance, validation and relief. I am an LCSW with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and families struggling with a vast range of concerns. In my experience, presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, social concerns, difficult family dynamics and significant life transitions can impact individuals in all spheres of one’s life.
I am EMDR trained, Level 2 training in Gottman Method for Couples, Sandtray trained, as well as a plethora of experience in other modalities including CBT and DBT.
I am honored you are here and I am hopeful that together, we can collaboratively begin a journey in which we help you to find a sense of balance, validation and relief. I am an LCSW with over 10 years of experience working with children, adolescents, young adults, adults and families struggling with a vast range of concerns. In my experience, presenting issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, social concerns, difficult family dynamics and significant life transitions can impact individuals in all spheres of one’s life.
(984) 334-1612 View (984) 334-1612
Photo of Elnita Ottey, LCMHC
Elnita Ottey
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Monroe, NC 28110
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor specializing in trauma, chronic pain, and grief issues in children and adults. With decades of experience working with families in many different life situations, I can help you learn skills to help cope with life stressors. As a national certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral therapist and an EMDR therapist, I am trained in evidenced-based therapies that will help your family work through difficult situations. I also treat adults struggling to adapt after the sudden, traumatic death of a loved one and adults who experience chronic pain.
I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor specializing in trauma, chronic pain, and grief issues in children and adults. With decades of experience working with families in many different life situations, I can help you learn skills to help cope with life stressors. As a national certified Trauma-Focused Cognitive-Behavioral therapist and an EMDR therapist, I am trained in evidenced-based therapies that will help your family work through difficult situations. I also treat adults struggling to adapt after the sudden, traumatic death of a loved one and adults who experience chronic pain.
(704) 850-6461 View (704) 850-6461
Photo of Mackenzie Quinton, MSW, LCSWA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mackenzie Quinton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSWA
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28405
I'm passionate about, and experienced in, working with children (5+), adolescents, and adults. I specialize in working with individual struggling with all types of anxiety and using EMDR to help individuals process traumatic experiences, regain control over their lives, and pave the way for a brighter future. I am dedicated and committed to helping trauma survivors young and old pave their path towards healing and recovery.
I'm passionate about, and experienced in, working with children (5+), adolescents, and adults. I specialize in working with individual struggling with all types of anxiety and using EMDR to help individuals process traumatic experiences, regain control over their lives, and pave the way for a brighter future. I am dedicated and committed to helping trauma survivors young and old pave their path towards healing and recovery.
(571) 520-0970 View (571) 520-0970
Photo of Merideth Tomlinson, PhD, LP, Psychologist
Merideth Tomlinson
Psychologist, PhD, LP
Verified Verified
Hillsborough, NC 27278
One of my goals as your therapist would be to provide a relationship of trust, respect and warmth. I want to understand your frame of reference, needs and goals, and tailor my work with you accordingly. To do this, I draw from a wide array of traditions and skills, including psychodynamic therapies, hypnosis, Cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness/meditation training, EMDR, Trauma therapy, relational work, and dream work.
One of my goals as your therapist would be to provide a relationship of trust, respect and warmth. I want to understand your frame of reference, needs and goals, and tailor my work with you accordingly. To do this, I draw from a wide array of traditions and skills, including psychodynamic therapies, hypnosis, Cognitive-behavioral, mindfulness/meditation training, EMDR, Trauma therapy, relational work, and dream work.
(919) 648-2173 View (919) 648-2173
Photo of Edward J Hanks - Inventive Counseling, MA, LMFT, CCTP, BC-TMH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Inventive Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Cary, NC 27511
I work with trauma and post traumatic stress treatments utilizing CPT and EMDR.
People of all ages can be helped by speaking to a professional about challenges in daily life. The value of the services you receive is related to the effectiveness of the services in meeting your goals. I am committed to providing effective services by maintaining a smaller number of clients, increasing the amount of time I am able to devote to each couple, family, or individual I work with. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or are just ready to move in a different direction, I look forward to working with you.
I work with trauma and post traumatic stress treatments utilizing CPT and EMDR.
People of all ages can be helped by speaking to a professional about challenges in daily life. The value of the services you receive is related to the effectiveness of the services in meeting your goals. I am committed to providing effective services by maintaining a smaller number of clients, increasing the amount of time I am able to devote to each couple, family, or individual I work with. If you are looking for extra support and guidance through a challenging situation or are just ready to move in a different direction, I look forward to working with you.
(919) 429-8830 View (919) 429-8830
Photo of Christine Adams, MSW, LCSW
Christine Adams
MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Durham, NC 27707
The modalities I use in my practice are Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Psychodynamic Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am scheduling clients for September 2024 for in-person in Durham, NC or virtual sessions (in both North Carolina and South Carolina). Are you needing support with navigating and healing from attachment and relational trauma, struggling with family of origin issues and family estrangement, or in the process of exploring your sexuality, identity, and queerness? Then you may find a therapeutic home with me. I also focus on issues that arise in ethical non-monogamy (I have 7 years of personal experience with ENM), boundary and communication work, and affect phobia (fear of feeling your emotions and you need help feeling them).
The modalities I use in my practice are Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Psychodynamic Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy.
I am scheduling clients for September 2024 for in-person in Durham, NC or virtual sessions (in both North Carolina and South Carolina). Are you needing support with navigating and healing from attachment and relational trauma, struggling with family of origin issues and family estrangement, or in the process of exploring your sexuality, identity, and queerness? Then you may find a therapeutic home with me. I also focus on issues that arise in ethical non-monogamy (I have 7 years of personal experience with ENM), boundary and communication work, and affect phobia (fear of feeling your emotions and you need help feeling them).
(919) 737-7335 View (919) 737-7335
Photo of Brittany Sundblom - Brittany Sundblom, PLLC, MA, LCMHC
Brittany Sundblom, PLLC
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ramseur, NC 27316
Hi, I'm Brittany! With eight years of experience helping individuals of all ages pursue positive change, I am here to help you also! I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to each person, including solution-focused therapy, CBT, bibliotherapy, play therapy, art therapy, narrative therapy, and EMDR.
Reaching out for help shows bravery and takes courage. It takes a strong person to ask for support, and if you're reading this, that's you. Going to therapy doesn't mean there's something wrong with you or that you're weak. In fact, it's just the opposite. It shows that you're ready to face your challenges head-on and work towards being your true self. We will create a safe and welcoming space where you can figure out what you need and want, and what your goals are. Together, we'll focus on helping you reach those goals and overcome any obstacles in your way. This journey is all about you.
Hi, I'm Brittany! With eight years of experience helping individuals of all ages pursue positive change, I am here to help you also! I utilize a variety of therapeutic techniques tailored to each person, including solution-focused therapy, CBT, bibliotherapy, play therapy, art therapy, narrative therapy, and EMDR.
Reaching out for help shows bravery and takes courage. It takes a strong person to ask for support, and if you're reading this, that's you. Going to therapy doesn't mean there's something wrong with you or that you're weak. In fact, it's just the opposite. It shows that you're ready to face your challenges head-on and work towards being your true self. We will create a safe and welcoming space where you can figure out what you need and want, and what your goals are. Together, we'll focus on helping you reach those goals and overcome any obstacles in your way. This journey is all about you.
(336) 489-8456 View (336) 489-8456
Photo of Natasha M Nunes, LCMHCS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natasha M Nunes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
I am trained in Gestalt therapy, CBT, EMDR and utilize these and other modalities with success.
If you are struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, traumatic events or parenting difficulties, I can help. I have been providing counseling to all ages for 30 years. I have helped people cope with & overcome anxiety, depression, relationship problems, parenting struggles & trauma. I am trained in EMDR for traumatic events and am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, supervising LCMHCAs. I believe in the mind/body/spirit connection and work to help people create health in all areas of their life. I believe that we all have the ability to make our lives joyful, healthy and productive.
I am trained in Gestalt therapy, CBT, EMDR and utilize these and other modalities with success.
If you are struggling with relationship issues, depression, anxiety, traumatic events or parenting difficulties, I can help. I have been providing counseling to all ages for 30 years. I have helped people cope with & overcome anxiety, depression, relationship problems, parenting struggles & trauma. I am trained in EMDR for traumatic events and am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, supervising LCMHCAs. I believe in the mind/body/spirit connection and work to help people create health in all areas of their life. I believe that we all have the ability to make our lives joyful, healthy and productive.
(910) 557-9754 View (910) 557-9754

See more therapy options for Lumberton

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.