EMDR Therapists in Morganton, NC

Photo of Jill Brooks, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Brooks
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
I am trained in EMDR and can help walk people through and heal from recent or past trauma.
Many of my clients say that, in one way or another, their life just seems disjointed, frustrating, overwhelming, lonely and confusing. Sometimes that is a description of their inner state of mind, or it could describe how they feel within their most personal relationships. Others report a significant life change that has thrown them off course. It could be a career crossroad, a traumatic event/upbringing, a relational struggle, or a spiritual battle that brings them to seek therapy.
I am trained in EMDR and can help walk people through and heal from recent or past trauma.
Many of my clients say that, in one way or another, their life just seems disjointed, frustrating, overwhelming, lonely and confusing. Sometimes that is a description of their inner state of mind, or it could describe how they feel within their most personal relationships. Others report a significant life change that has thrown them off course. It could be a career crossroad, a traumatic event/upbringing, a relational struggle, or a spiritual battle that brings them to seek therapy.
(828) 414-2505 View (828) 414-2505
Photo of Jolene R Gervasi, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS, Counselor
Jolene R Gervasi
Counselor, MS, LCMHCS, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655  (Online Only)
I do not believe in a cookie-cutter approach but use techniques such as EMDR, Hypnotherapy,Mindfulness, Emotional Freedom Technique, Positive Psychotherapy, ACT, and Brainspotting.
Currently accepting new clients for remote sessions only "What's past is prologue" PROLOGUE, which means your past is not the whole story! You are the author of your future. You can heal, grow, and learn. You can "dwell in possibility." I believe that you possess the raw materials for growth, I believe you possess strengths and skills to heal, and I believe you have a unique story to tell and a right to be heard. I will strive to provide a safe and sacred space for you to share your story. I believe that mutual respect and trust between counselor and client makes all the difference.
I do not believe in a cookie-cutter approach but use techniques such as EMDR, Hypnotherapy,Mindfulness, Emotional Freedom Technique, Positive Psychotherapy, ACT, and Brainspotting.
Currently accepting new clients for remote sessions only "What's past is prologue" PROLOGUE, which means your past is not the whole story! You are the author of your future. You can heal, grow, and learn. You can "dwell in possibility." I believe that you possess the raw materials for growth, I believe you possess strengths and skills to heal, and I believe you have a unique story to tell and a right to be heard. I will strive to provide a safe and sacred space for you to share your story. I believe that mutual respect and trust between counselor and client makes all the difference.
(828) 338-2029 View (828) 338-2029
Photo of Tami Grossens, LCSW, ACSW, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tami Grossens
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, ACSW, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
Through multiple therapeutic techniques including EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution focused, mindfulness, play therapy, and Motivational Interviewing I work with each client to assist them in developing their own insight and positive change.
Every situation presents us with the opportunity to view things from 2 perspectives. My goal is to help each client find their own clear perspective. I work with the person's own strengths and abilities to help each person achieve their fullest potential. I have experience working with and enjoy treating a variety of symptoms and issues including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, victims of abuse, PTSD, stress management, phase of life issues, grief and loss, relationship stressors, academic and vocational issues.
Through multiple therapeutic techniques including EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, solution focused, mindfulness, play therapy, and Motivational Interviewing I work with each client to assist them in developing their own insight and positive change.
Every situation presents us with the opportunity to view things from 2 perspectives. My goal is to help each client find their own clear perspective. I work with the person's own strengths and abilities to help each person achieve their fullest potential. I have experience working with and enjoy treating a variety of symptoms and issues including depression and other mood disorders, anxiety, victims of abuse, PTSD, stress management, phase of life issues, grief and loss, relationship stressors, academic and vocational issues.
(828) 615-4074 View (828) 615-4074
Photo of Tami Grossens - Clear Perspective, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clear Perspective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
We have training in EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness, hypnosis, and play therapy.
Are you having difficulty moving forward from a trauma in your past? Do you feel that anxiety prevents you from living the life you would like to live? Do you feel that parenting offers challenges that you could use some help working through? These are only a few of the issues that the clinicians at Clear Perspective can help you with. The clinicians at Clear Perspective use a client centered approach matching the skills and methods to meet your individual needs. We want to help our clients live up to their fullest potential and find their own clear perspective.
We have training in EMDR, cognitive behavioral therapy, solution focused therapy, mindfulness, hypnosis, and play therapy.
Are you having difficulty moving forward from a trauma in your past? Do you feel that anxiety prevents you from living the life you would like to live? Do you feel that parenting offers challenges that you could use some help working through? These are only a few of the issues that the clinicians at Clear Perspective can help you with. The clinicians at Clear Perspective use a client centered approach matching the skills and methods to meet your individual needs. We want to help our clients live up to their fullest potential and find their own clear perspective.
(828) 475-1452 View (828) 475-1452
Photo of Jacqueline Van Arnold, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jacqueline Van Arnold
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655  (Online Only)
I use a client-centered approach with all of my clients and I am trained in EMDR, CBT, Mindfulness, and other complementary approaches, allowing me to tailor sessions to your needs.
Asking for help can be scary, but taking that first step can change your life for the better. If you are ready to start taking control of your life, I am here to help. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients create the life they envision for themselves. For some, that may be having stronger and healthier relationships. For others, it may be developing a deeper love for oneself. You may wish to advance in your career, be a better parent, or heal the wounds of trauma. If you are picturing a different life for yourself, now may the time to start making that picture a reality.
I use a client-centered approach with all of my clients and I am trained in EMDR, CBT, Mindfulness, and other complementary approaches, allowing me to tailor sessions to your needs.
Asking for help can be scary, but taking that first step can change your life for the better. If you are ready to start taking control of your life, I am here to help. My goal as a therapist is to help my clients create the life they envision for themselves. For some, that may be having stronger and healthier relationships. For others, it may be developing a deeper love for oneself. You may wish to advance in your career, be a better parent, or heal the wounds of trauma. If you are picturing a different life for yourself, now may the time to start making that picture a reality.
(828) 532-3915 View (828) 532-3915
Photo of Kayla Brehm, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kayla Brehm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LCAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655  (Online Only)
I have extensive experience with trauma-informed care & use approaches such as EMDR, MI, & CBT.
As a clinical social worker, I value a strengths-based approach in meeting folks wherever they are in pursuing growth & recovery. I believe we all thrive in open & authentic relationships & it is important to accept people as they are. True healing is fostered through trusting relationships without judgment or shame. After 8 years of practicing in community mental health settings, I am beginning a private practice to continue supporting the community. I have worked with adolescents, families, & young adults with mental health concerns, trauma related distress, & substance use issues. I am open to working with adults of any age.
I have extensive experience with trauma-informed care & use approaches such as EMDR, MI, & CBT.
As a clinical social worker, I value a strengths-based approach in meeting folks wherever they are in pursuing growth & recovery. I believe we all thrive in open & authentic relationships & it is important to accept people as they are. True healing is fostered through trusting relationships without judgment or shame. After 8 years of practicing in community mental health settings, I am beginning a private practice to continue supporting the community. I have worked with adolescents, families, & young adults with mental health concerns, trauma related distress, & substance use issues. I am open to working with adults of any age.
(814) 527-3849 View (814) 527-3849
Photo of Lauren Duerson, MEd, LPCC, LCMHC, Counselor
Lauren Duerson
Counselor, MEd, LPCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655  (Online Only)
I employ a comprehensive approach, drawing from a fusion of therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Havening, and Polyvagal Theory.
Are you struggling to navigate each day, weighed down by exhaustion, persistent low mood, excessive worry, or a state of hypervigilance? Have you battled anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use challenges, or struggled with your self-esteem? I want to assure you that you're not alone in your journey. I firmly believe that one of life's most courageous acts is to embark on a path of self-discovery, to gain insight into your personal journey, and to open the door to healing and growth. A central theme running through the modalities I utilize is mindfulness, self-compassion, and heightened awareness of both the body and emotions
I employ a comprehensive approach, drawing from a fusion of therapeutic techniques such as EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Havening, and Polyvagal Theory.
Are you struggling to navigate each day, weighed down by exhaustion, persistent low mood, excessive worry, or a state of hypervigilance? Have you battled anxiety, depression, trauma, substance use challenges, or struggled with your self-esteem? I want to assure you that you're not alone in your journey. I firmly believe that one of life's most courageous acts is to embark on a path of self-discovery, to gain insight into your personal journey, and to open the door to healing and growth. A central theme running through the modalities I utilize is mindfulness, self-compassion, and heightened awareness of both the body and emotions
(310) 362-9418 View (310) 362-9418
Photo of Sara Nafziger-Shelly, LCSW, BCD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Nafziger-Shelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
I have expertise in traditional modalities (psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, DBT) as well as non-traditional ones like sandtray therapy, art therapy, EMDR, dreamwork and spiritual direction.
We each have the wisdom within ourselves to guide us on our life journey. However, we often forget to listen when life around us is loud, confusing or perplexing. Additionally, childhood trauma or old baggage interferes with our listening ability. These distractions prevent us from hearing our own inner wisdom. I am a sojourner with my clients as I help them learn to listen to their own internal wisdom. Together, we work to discover inner healing, peace and life balance in their lives.
I have expertise in traditional modalities (psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, DBT) as well as non-traditional ones like sandtray therapy, art therapy, EMDR, dreamwork and spiritual direction.
We each have the wisdom within ourselves to guide us on our life journey. However, we often forget to listen when life around us is loud, confusing or perplexing. Additionally, childhood trauma or old baggage interferes with our listening ability. These distractions prevent us from hearing our own inner wisdom. I am a sojourner with my clients as I help them learn to listen to their own internal wisdom. Together, we work to discover inner healing, peace and life balance in their lives.
(828) 332-5831 View (828) 332-5831
Photo of Chrissy Holiday, MDiv, MA/EdS, NCC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Chrissy Holiday
Licensed Professional Counselor, MDiv, MA/EdS, NCC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that change is hard but not impossible. I work especially well with people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and spirituality. I work mainly through trauma-informed therapy, reality therapy, EMDR, and internal family systems therapy, though I am open to other approaches to counseling. Individuals and families are welcome in my office to receive empathetic and intentional mental health care. Although I am not able to prescribe medication, I understand it is often a major part of mental wellness and I can coordinate with any prescribing doctors who may already be part of your wellness team.
I believe that change is hard but not impossible. I work especially well with people who are struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, and spirituality. I work mainly through trauma-informed therapy, reality therapy, EMDR, and internal family systems therapy, though I am open to other approaches to counseling. Individuals and families are welcome in my office to receive empathetic and intentional mental health care. Although I am not able to prescribe medication, I understand it is often a major part of mental wellness and I can coordinate with any prescribing doctors who may already be part of your wellness team.
(980) 404-2360 View (980) 404-2360
Photo of Angela Quigley, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A, Counselor
Angela Quigley
Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS-A
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28680
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 Elizabeth Whitesides, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Whitesides
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
I utilize a variety of psychodynamic approaches including CBT, solution-focused, narrative therapy, EMDR, brainspotting, and transpersonal psychology.
Ready to take the first step towards creating the life you want? It takes courage and awareness. Make the changes within yourself to improve life's journey. I am here to help you realize your inherent strength, wisdom, and access to your own inner healer... all the while providing encouragement and support along the way. Licensed as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Addictions Specialist, I have 15 years of experience working with women, men, and couples, of all ages and backgrounds. I believe in your ability to create transformation for yourself through commitment and our work together.
I utilize a variety of psychodynamic approaches including CBT, solution-focused, narrative therapy, EMDR, brainspotting, and transpersonal psychology.
Ready to take the first step towards creating the life you want? It takes courage and awareness. Make the changes within yourself to improve life's journey. I am here to help you realize your inherent strength, wisdom, and access to your own inner healer... all the while providing encouragement and support along the way. Licensed as a Clinical Mental Health Counselor and Clinical Addictions Specialist, I have 15 years of experience working with women, men, and couples, of all ages and backgrounds. I believe in your ability to create transformation for yourself through commitment and our work together.
(828) 548-1514 View (828) 548-1514
Photo of Rikki L. Rogers, MSW, LCSW, CFT-I™, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rikki L. Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CFT-I™
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
Waitlist for new clients
Using EMDR therapy intensively over several hours of treatment allows you to heal old feelings, patterns, and crippling negative beliefs that have kept you stuck and hurting for a long time.
You've tried a lot of things to try to feel better... self-care, breathing exercises, stress management, maybe you've even seen a couple of therapists. But the things you struggle with like worry, depression, anger, loneliness, self-criticism and fear that things won't ever change just keep coming back up. Maybe you've lost some relationships or turned to something harmful to make you feel temporarily better. You're not messed up or broken. At some point in life, maybe as a child, your body learned how to protect itself from hurt when you needed protection most. Time has moved on but you still feel stuck. That's where EMDR comes in.
Using EMDR therapy intensively over several hours of treatment allows you to heal old feelings, patterns, and crippling negative beliefs that have kept you stuck and hurting for a long time.
You've tried a lot of things to try to feel better... self-care, breathing exercises, stress management, maybe you've even seen a couple of therapists. But the things you struggle with like worry, depression, anger, loneliness, self-criticism and fear that things won't ever change just keep coming back up. Maybe you've lost some relationships or turned to something harmful to make you feel temporarily better. You're not messed up or broken. At some point in life, maybe as a child, your body learned how to protect itself from hurt when you needed protection most. Time has moved on but you still feel stuck. That's where EMDR comes in.
(828) 330-9145 View (828) 330-9145
Photo of Ron Whicker, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ron Whicker
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
I utilize a wide range of therapeutic techniques, such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and others.
In my experience, I find that I am a good fit for clients who are interested in exploring their own internal processes, are at least mildly self-driven, and are into exploring existential truths. I've been helpful to those who deal with depression, anxiety, self-image issues/negative self beliefs, trauma, grief, and other needs.
I utilize a wide range of therapeutic techniques, such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and others.
In my experience, I find that I am a good fit for clients who are interested in exploring their own internal processes, are at least mildly self-driven, and are into exploring existential truths. I've been helpful to those who deal with depression, anxiety, self-image issues/negative self beliefs, trauma, grief, and other needs.
(828) 373-2680 View (828) 373-2680
Photo of Lori Breland, MA, NCC, LCMHC, C-DBT, Counselor
Lori Breland
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCMHC, C-DBT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Morganton, NC 28655
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 Katie Hadden, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katie Hadden
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655  (Online Only)
I offer trauma informed models including EMDR, CBT, Mindfulness, and somatic techniques.
I specialize in wholistic trauma therapy for adults who want to understand and resolve the ways their past is affecting their current relationships, jobs, and life roles. On the surface, you might be holding it all together. And at the heart of it, you're stuck - not feeling like your true self. Anger, depression, anxiety, difficulty focusing, overwhelm, and/or drugs or alcohol abuse might be more a part of your life than you’d like. This is not how you imagined it. You want, you NEED, to find your way back again.
I offer trauma informed models including EMDR, CBT, Mindfulness, and somatic techniques.
I specialize in wholistic trauma therapy for adults who want to understand and resolve the ways their past is affecting their current relationships, jobs, and life roles. On the surface, you might be holding it all together. And at the heart of it, you're stuck - not feeling like your true self. Anger, depression, anxiety, difficulty focusing, overwhelm, and/or drugs or alcohol abuse might be more a part of your life than you’d like. This is not how you imagined it. You want, you NEED, to find your way back again.
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Photo of Christina Crim, MS, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christina Crim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
I seek to create an open, safe space for others to truly feel comfortable exploring their struggles, their hopes and themselves. Using the healing power of connection and community, I believe the therapeutic relationship can be one that facilitates self-growth, resiliency, and empowerment of one's authentic self.
I seek to create an open, safe space for others to truly feel comfortable exploring their struggles, their hopes and themselves. Using the healing power of connection and community, I believe the therapeutic relationship can be one that facilitates self-growth, resiliency, and empowerment of one's authentic self.
(828) 554-2367 View (828) 554-2367
Photo of Debra Kay Peters - Wisdom Path, PLLC, Psychologist
Wisdom Path, PLLC
Psychologist
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
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 Gwynn J Austin, MA, LCMHC
Gwynn J Austin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
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 J Grey Johnson, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
J Grey Johnson
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
My ideal client is someone that is working to make changes in their life even if they are not sure what those changes should be.
My ideal client is someone that is working to make changes in their life even if they are not sure what those changes should be.
(828) 415-5466 View (828) 415-5466
Photo of Shan Bassion - CTSHealth Integrated Wellness, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
CTSHealth Integrated Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Morganton, NC 28655
CTSHealth Integrative Wellness Clinic supports the clinical views of the Integrated Care Model, Person Centered Thinking, System of Care and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. With these approaches, we’re able to identify and increase the emotional, cognitive, social, and psychological functioning of our clients. We provide guidance, education, and skills to caregivers to become better equipped to assist individuals in their care. Our professional teams are committed to safeguarding the continuity of care through collaboration with all participants involved in assisting the client through the treatment process.
CTSHealth Integrative Wellness Clinic supports the clinical views of the Integrated Care Model, Person Centered Thinking, System of Care and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. With these approaches, we’re able to identify and increase the emotional, cognitive, social, and psychological functioning of our clients. We provide guidance, education, and skills to caregivers to become better equipped to assist individuals in their care. Our professional teams are committed to safeguarding the continuity of care through collaboration with all participants involved in assisting the client through the treatment process.
(828) 655-7849 View (828) 655-7849
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.