EMDR Therapists in Mint Hill, NC

Photo of Myriam Rabaste, LCMHC, EMDR, II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Myriam Rabaste
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC, EMDR, II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
I use an integrative approach tailored to each individual's needs, including, Brainspotting, EMDR, the Flash Method, existential, and DBT.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
I use an integrative approach tailored to each individual's needs, including, Brainspotting, EMDR, the Flash Method, existential, and DBT.
Every life trauma and struggle can be transformed into strength and beauty. My passion is to work alongside those who are determined to face their pain, fears, and limitations and discover their purpose in life. I specialize in the treatment of trauma, grief, adjustment issues, anxiety, and BPD. Every week, we have a DBT group meeting online. Additionally, I also work with people (artists, and athletes) who wish to develop their performance and creativity.
(704) 870-2290 View (704) 870-2290
Photo of Kayla Kaesmeyer, MA, LCMHC
Kayla Kaesmeyer
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mint Hill, NC 28227
There is no better time than now to start your healing journey. I have a passion for helping people and desire to create a comfortable, safe environment for people to come just as they are and process the burdens they carry. I recognize how brave of a step it is to reach out for help and my approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe that each person’s story is unique and deserves to be heard and understood. I use many effective treatment modalities, such as EMDR, DBT, and CBT to bring lasting change. I consider it a great honor to be able to walk alongside each and every one of my clients.
There is no better time than now to start your healing journey. I have a passion for helping people and desire to create a comfortable, safe environment for people to come just as they are and process the burdens they carry. I recognize how brave of a step it is to reach out for help and my approach is rooted in empathy, respect, and collaboration. I believe that each person’s story is unique and deserves to be heard and understood. I use many effective treatment modalities, such as EMDR, DBT, and CBT to bring lasting change. I consider it a great honor to be able to walk alongside each and every one of my clients.
(704) 228-7844 View (704) 228-7844
Photo of Myriam Rabaste - Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC, LPC, EMDR II, Counselor
Neuronnection Counseling, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, EMDR II
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
My approach includes EMDR, Brainspotting, The Flash Method, and DBT.
Neuronnection Counseling is a privately owned practice that guides individuals through their healing journeys. My mission is to create a warm and supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore your experiences and rediscover your inner strength and capacity for self-healing and growth. With over 18 years of experience, I specialize in helping adults and adolescents who are dealing with trauma, grief, anxiety, difficult & overwhelming emotions, BPD, and cultural challenges.
My approach includes EMDR, Brainspotting, The Flash Method, and DBT.
Neuronnection Counseling is a privately owned practice that guides individuals through their healing journeys. My mission is to create a warm and supportive environment where you can feel safe to explore your experiences and rediscover your inner strength and capacity for self-healing and growth. With over 18 years of experience, I specialize in helping adults and adolescents who are dealing with trauma, grief, anxiety, difficult & overwhelming emotions, BPD, and cultural challenges.
(980) 291-4993 View (980) 291-4993
Photo of Destiny Pistone - Rise Counseling and Wellness, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rise Counseling and Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
I most often utilize narrative therapy however I also often utilize EMDR therapy with a focus on trauma.
I believe that therapy is for everyone! So often we minimize our struggles by comparing them to those faced by others when we all deserve the opportunity to work through our challenges so we can live the best version of our own lives. I work hard to provide a safe, judgement free atmosphere that promotes healing and personal growth. Life is unpredictable and having someone to help us rise though the hard parts can make all the difference in achieving the wellness we desire.
I most often utilize narrative therapy however I also often utilize EMDR therapy with a focus on trauma.
I believe that therapy is for everyone! So often we minimize our struggles by comparing them to those faced by others when we all deserve the opportunity to work through our challenges so we can live the best version of our own lives. I work hard to provide a safe, judgement free atmosphere that promotes healing and personal growth. Life is unpredictable and having someone to help us rise though the hard parts can make all the difference in achieving the wellness we desire.
(704) 486-5674 View (704) 486-5674
Photo of Christa B Phipps - Tabonuco Counseling and Consulting, PLLC, LCMHCS, RPTS, EMDR
Tabonuco Counseling and Consulting, PLLC
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, RPTS, EMDR
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
We are also trained to do EMDR with both children and adults.
Our motto at Tabonuco is "Growing Deep Roots." We understand that life can come at you and your family making life feel unmanageable. You may be facing challenges brought on from the past. You may sometimes be uncertain about your future. You may not know how to help your child manage hard things. All this can cause distress. Our therapists are all trained to assist you in your journey using a multi-modal approach that can be adapted to you depending on your developmental level.
We are also trained to do EMDR with both children and adults.
Our motto at Tabonuco is "Growing Deep Roots." We understand that life can come at you and your family making life feel unmanageable. You may be facing challenges brought on from the past. You may sometimes be uncertain about your future. You may not know how to help your child manage hard things. All this can cause distress. Our therapists are all trained to assist you in your journey using a multi-modal approach that can be adapted to you depending on your developmental level.
(704) 769-9787 View (704) 769-9787
Photo of McCloud Acosta Clinical Services - MACS (McCloud Acosta Clinical Services PLLC), Clinical Social Work/Therapist
MACS (McCloud Acosta Clinical Services PLLC)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Assessments, Screenings, Treatment Planning, to specialized Trauma Treatment Modalities- TF-CBT, Evidenced Based Modules such as EMDR, DBT Adherent Groups/Individual for Pre-Teens, Teens & Adults, Family, Individual & Group Therapy.
We are a Group of Trauma Specialist working with a variety of ages (8-100+) who have experienced trauma & have mental health needs. Our team of 15 therapists have a variety of specialties, experience & methods along with life experiences that can address most challenges. We love to work with clients who are ready to take the healing journey, are open, motivated & committed. Therapy is work & it is something we are honored to help you do. If you are ready to improve your life- please reach out. Virtual (in NC) and In-Person Sessions Available in Matthews & Mint Hill.
Assessments, Screenings, Treatment Planning, to specialized Trauma Treatment Modalities- TF-CBT, Evidenced Based Modules such as EMDR, DBT Adherent Groups/Individual for Pre-Teens, Teens & Adults, Family, Individual & Group Therapy.
We are a Group of Trauma Specialist working with a variety of ages (8-100+) who have experienced trauma & have mental health needs. Our team of 15 therapists have a variety of specialties, experience & methods along with life experiences that can address most challenges. We love to work with clients who are ready to take the healing journey, are open, motivated & committed. Therapy is work & it is something we are honored to help you do. If you are ready to improve your life- please reach out. Virtual (in NC) and In-Person Sessions Available in Matthews & Mint Hill.
(704) 368-3609 View (704) 368-3609
Photo of Caroline McCloud, MSW, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caroline McCloud
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
I've received formal training & have years of practice using specific evidence based practices such as Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) & EMDR as well as traditional Psychotherapy.
Trauma is interwoven through so many of your experiences and you continue to experience the effects to this day. You are looking for a therapist that can help you attain goals of healing, processing of the past events, and fulfilled living. My skill & passion is working with clients like you on the central theme of Trauma that often starts, then reinforces your problems. Treating this trauma is the solution. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated and ready for therapy while appreciating a nurturing therapist who is consistent & direct when needed. My work moves easily between modalities that are effective and supportive.
I've received formal training & have years of practice using specific evidence based practices such as Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) & EMDR as well as traditional Psychotherapy.
Trauma is interwoven through so many of your experiences and you continue to experience the effects to this day. You are looking for a therapist that can help you attain goals of healing, processing of the past events, and fulfilled living. My skill & passion is working with clients like you on the central theme of Trauma that often starts, then reinforces your problems. Treating this trauma is the solution. I enjoy working with clients who are motivated and ready for therapy while appreciating a nurturing therapist who is consistent & direct when needed. My work moves easily between modalities that are effective and supportive.
(980) 366-2643 View (980) 366-2643
Photo of Stephanie D. Beard, MS, LCMHC, Counselor
Stephanie D. Beard
Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Waitlist for new clients
In order to achieve this, I use an eclectic approach to therapy by utilizing evidence-based modalities, such as EMDR and emotion-focused psychotherapy.
Throughout life’s journey, we may find ourselves feeling lost, unsure of where to start of where to go. We realize that past experiences have shaped our worldview, and how we relate to and connect with others. We may recognize that there are patterns within our family system that we want to break, but aren’t sure how. When we have experienced trauma, we may find it easier to leave it in the past; however, these experiences can change how we think and feel about ourselves and our surroundings. Through therapy, we can learn new skills to strengthen our relationships and establish secure attachment patterns.
In order to achieve this, I use an eclectic approach to therapy by utilizing evidence-based modalities, such as EMDR and emotion-focused psychotherapy.
Throughout life’s journey, we may find ourselves feeling lost, unsure of where to start of where to go. We realize that past experiences have shaped our worldview, and how we relate to and connect with others. We may recognize that there are patterns within our family system that we want to break, but aren’t sure how. When we have experienced trauma, we may find it easier to leave it in the past; however, these experiences can change how we think and feel about ourselves and our surroundings. Through therapy, we can learn new skills to strengthen our relationships and establish secure attachment patterns.
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Photo of Natalie Forouzad, LCSW-A, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Natalie Forouzad
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A, MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Mint Hill, NC 28227
I am trained in EMDR.
Sometimes unexpected things or events happen to us that can make our happiness feel out of our grasp. Things like life & family transitions, chronic physical or mental illness, autoimmune disorders, romantic and familial relationships, trauma, abuse, cyber/social media related anxiety, disabilities or depression can lead you to feeling extremely overwhelmed and as if your life is out of control. This may cause you to feel trapped, alone, unsafe, or stuck in a dark chapter of your life that sometimes feels unbearable or unending. I am here to help you turn the page and progress to a new chapter of your story without judgment.
I am trained in EMDR.
Sometimes unexpected things or events happen to us that can make our happiness feel out of our grasp. Things like life & family transitions, chronic physical or mental illness, autoimmune disorders, romantic and familial relationships, trauma, abuse, cyber/social media related anxiety, disabilities or depression can lead you to feeling extremely overwhelmed and as if your life is out of control. This may cause you to feel trapped, alone, unsafe, or stuck in a dark chapter of your life that sometimes feels unbearable or unending. I am here to help you turn the page and progress to a new chapter of your story without judgment.
(704) 237-6781 View (704) 237-6781
Photo of Marissa Johnson, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
Marissa Johnson
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
As an EMDR and DBT therapist, I help clients work through past trauma and learn to regulate their emotions in the present.
Are you struggling to regulate your emotions and meet your goals? Do you feel stuck in life? Is your past interfering with your life in the present? I am trained in EMDR and DBT, and help clients who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I want to help you work through difficulties to live your best life. Life right now is particularly stressful, and and I want to give you a place to process your emotions and learn skills to handle stress.
As an EMDR and DBT therapist, I help clients work through past trauma and learn to regulate their emotions in the present.
Are you struggling to regulate your emotions and meet your goals? Do you feel stuck in life? Is your past interfering with your life in the present? I am trained in EMDR and DBT, and help clients who are struggling with mood and anxiety disorders, life transitions, and past trauma. I want to help you work through difficulties to live your best life. Life right now is particularly stressful, and and I want to give you a place to process your emotions and learn skills to handle stress.
(704) 610-3970 View (704) 610-3970
Photo of Meg Telfer, LCMHCA, LCASA, EMDR, Counselor
Meg Telfer
Counselor, LCMHCA, LCASA, EMDR
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
I believe the role of a therapist is to offer unconditional acceptance and walk alongside each client as they work through their issues. There are many different tools to help each client achieve their goals. Setting up a treatment plan with attainable goals with clear direction is essential in the counseling process. Each client comes with their own belief system. I am committed to helping clients find the inner peace that comes through relationships with people and a higher power. I am trained in biblical principles and a Christian, but I am committed to helping each person find their own path and their own beliefs.
I believe the role of a therapist is to offer unconditional acceptance and walk alongside each client as they work through their issues. There are many different tools to help each client achieve their goals. Setting up a treatment plan with attainable goals with clear direction is essential in the counseling process. Each client comes with their own belief system. I am committed to helping clients find the inner peace that comes through relationships with people and a higher power. I am trained in biblical principles and a Christian, but I am committed to helping each person find their own path and their own beliefs.
(704) 703-2770 View (704) 703-2770
Photo of Christopher West, MA, LCMHC, Counselor
Christopher West
Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Waitlist for new clients
Life can be stressful. The demands we, as well as others, place upon us can steal our peace and happiness and leave us feeling overwhelmed. Often, we struggle to achieve some sense of balance while simultaneously feeling confused and discouraged. Anxiety, depression and trauma can affect every aspect of our lives – relationships, family life, work, schooling, even self-care and physical well-being. Therapy offers a time away from daily life and provides a comfortable place to reflect and regain a healthy perspective for living life fully.
Life can be stressful. The demands we, as well as others, place upon us can steal our peace and happiness and leave us feeling overwhelmed. Often, we struggle to achieve some sense of balance while simultaneously feeling confused and discouraged. Anxiety, depression and trauma can affect every aspect of our lives – relationships, family life, work, schooling, even self-care and physical well-being. Therapy offers a time away from daily life and provides a comfortable place to reflect and regain a healthy perspective for living life fully.
(704) 702-6810 View (704) 702-6810
Photo of Jennifer Macchia, MA, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Macchia
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Mint Hill, NC 28227
There is power in asking for help. It takes courage to admit that you don't have it all figured out. Life provides each of us the opportunity and freedom to learn, grow, and change. I offer a safe therapeutic time and space where clients are free to explore their relationships, feelings, and thoughts.
There is power in asking for help. It takes courage to admit that you don't have it all figured out. Life provides each of us the opportunity and freedom to learn, grow, and change. I offer a safe therapeutic time and space where clients are free to explore their relationships, feelings, and thoughts.
(704) 459-3677 View (704) 459-3677
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
Mint Hill, NC 28227
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 Eve Rogerson, LCMHC, NCC, MA, PGDE, BSc
Eve Rogerson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, NCC, MA, PGDE, BSc
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Waitlist for new clients
You may be struggling with an important relationship; being overwhelmed by the impact of past trauma; exploring your sexuality or gender identity; navigating the world safely because of systemic oppression and injustice; facing financial hardship; feeling lost; learning to manage a health condition; feeling unable to connect with family; experiencing unexplained anger; or a thousand other things that there isn't room to list. It is my job and my hope to empower you by providing an empathic, safe, and supportive environment in which to explore struggles, pain, and roadblocks such that opportunities for help and growth can emerge.
You may be struggling with an important relationship; being overwhelmed by the impact of past trauma; exploring your sexuality or gender identity; navigating the world safely because of systemic oppression and injustice; facing financial hardship; feeling lost; learning to manage a health condition; feeling unable to connect with family; experiencing unexplained anger; or a thousand other things that there isn't room to list. It is my job and my hope to empower you by providing an empathic, safe, and supportive environment in which to explore struggles, pain, and roadblocks such that opportunities for help and growth can emerge.
(704) 870-0930 View (704) 870-0930
Photo of Caitlin Hubbard, LCSWA, EMT-B, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caitlin Hubbard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSWA, EMT-B
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Seeking therapy can be a daunting task, but one that takes a lot of courage. I am dedicated to providing a warm, safe, and supportive environment for you. I offer individual counseling services to children and adults between 9-55+. I specialize in working with adolescents who have experienced significant grief and loss. I understand that the pain of loss can be overwhelming. Grief is like a fingerprint – entirely unique to the individual and their journey.
Seeking therapy can be a daunting task, but one that takes a lot of courage. I am dedicated to providing a warm, safe, and supportive environment for you. I offer individual counseling services to children and adults between 9-55+. I specialize in working with adolescents who have experienced significant grief and loss. I understand that the pain of loss can be overwhelming. Grief is like a fingerprint – entirely unique to the individual and their journey.
(980) 946-6199 View (980) 946-6199
Photo of Kimberly Weaver, LCMHCA, Counselor
Kimberly Weaver
Counselor, LCMHCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mint Hill, NC 28227
Not accepting new clients
You deserve to heal! You are worthy of love, support, and the freedom found in healing. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma, or relational wounds there is hope. The storm won’t last always and I am here to help navigate you through it. We'll work together to: identify wounds and experiences that may be keeping you stuck or burdening you; heal the areas that may seem fractured by teaching you new skills and coping techniques; and celebrate accomplishing goals, becoming a more authentic you, and achieving freedom.
You deserve to heal! You are worthy of love, support, and the freedom found in healing. Whether you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved trauma, or relational wounds there is hope. The storm won’t last always and I am here to help navigate you through it. We'll work together to: identify wounds and experiences that may be keeping you stuck or burdening you; heal the areas that may seem fractured by teaching you new skills and coping techniques; and celebrate accomplishing goals, becoming a more authentic you, and achieving freedom.
(980) 449-2337 View (980) 449-2337

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nivee Roy - Chai Clinical Concepts, PLLC Nivee Roy, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chai Clinical Concepts, PLLC Nivee Roy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHCS, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28227  (Online Only)
I utilize these therapy modalities: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, CPT to assist my clients work through their life struggles, traumatic experiences and embrace the richness of their lives.
Life feeling like an emotional rollercoaster? Hard not to people please and put others first while feeling miserable inside. You don't have to figure it out alone or feel stuck, I can help. I am licensed to provide both mental health and addiction counseling in NC, with 20yrs experience. My specialties: trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, family stress, LGBTQA+, grief/loss, inter-generational cultural issues, and premarital counseling. My lived experience as a first generation South Asian immigrant, a working parent, who has faced transitions to seek meaningful growth, shapes my authentic counseling style.
I utilize these therapy modalities: EMDR, IFS, ACT, DBT, CPT to assist my clients work through their life struggles, traumatic experiences and embrace the richness of their lives.
Life feeling like an emotional rollercoaster? Hard not to people please and put others first while feeling miserable inside. You don't have to figure it out alone or feel stuck, I can help. I am licensed to provide both mental health and addiction counseling in NC, with 20yrs experience. My specialties: trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, life transitions, family stress, LGBTQA+, grief/loss, inter-generational cultural issues, and premarital counseling. My lived experience as a first generation South Asian immigrant, a working parent, who has faced transitions to seek meaningful growth, shapes my authentic counseling style.
(828) 332-5695 View (828) 332-5695
Kristi Knox
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28227
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for treating PTSD and CPTSD, and am currently working toward certification in EMDR.
I have a vested interest and the expertise of 20+ years to help patients improve self-esteem, self-worth, & mood symptoms, as well as navigate the complexities of relationships and trauma. Whether you have been in therapy extensively throughout the years or are a beginning client, you may have emotional, interpersonal, thinking and behavioral patterns you would like to make significant and lasting changes to. This is why treatment with me spans several research based stages including skill building; accessing internal resources for bringing about change; and accessing and changing neural networks to bring about healing.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for treating PTSD and CPTSD, and am currently working toward certification in EMDR.
I have a vested interest and the expertise of 20+ years to help patients improve self-esteem, self-worth, & mood symptoms, as well as navigate the complexities of relationships and trauma. Whether you have been in therapy extensively throughout the years or are a beginning client, you may have emotional, interpersonal, thinking and behavioral patterns you would like to make significant and lasting changes to. This is why treatment with me spans several research based stages including skill building; accessing internal resources for bringing about change; and accessing and changing neural networks to bring about healing.
(704) 753-8849 View (704) 753-8849
Photo of Courtney Newton, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Courtney Newton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28227
Waitlist for new clients
I am a certified sex addictions therapist as well as fully trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) for the treatment of singe-incident or complex trauma.
When we experience extreme stress or distressing events that leave us afraid, disconnected, or out of control, it is the telling of our story that creates the change we choose. My goal is to help you understand your past so you can move towards the life desired. By providing a supportive and collaborative approach to therapy, you will be able to develop your own goals, rediscover your values, find meaning, and conquer obstacles.
I am a certified sex addictions therapist as well as fully trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing) for the treatment of singe-incident or complex trauma.
When we experience extreme stress or distressing events that leave us afraid, disconnected, or out of control, it is the telling of our story that creates the change we choose. My goal is to help you understand your past so you can move towards the life desired. By providing a supportive and collaborative approach to therapy, you will be able to develop your own goals, rediscover your values, find meaning, and conquer obstacles.
(980) 248-2975 View (980) 248-2975

See more therapy options for Mint Hill

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.