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More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Liza M. Shaw, MA, LMFT, ACHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liza M. Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ACHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carolina Beach, NC 28428
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
I consider it my personal mission to reduce the divorce rate in the United States, 1 couple at a time. But preventing divorce will only be succesful if, in place of unfulfilling or chronically dysfunctional marriages, couples develop truly thriving marriages & deeply fulfilling relationships. Even in the most hopeless-seeming cases, couples can heal the damage from the past and move forward in a healthier way. Not all marriages can be saved, but when couples do the work to heal the past, their future can be happier, no matter what the outcome for the relationship.
(828) 202-3074 View (828) 202-3074

Online Therapists

Photo of Kim Morris, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kim Morris
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morehead City, NC 28557
I use evidence-based practices – EMDR, ACT, CISM, Heartmath, Alpha Stim, Resilience & Stress First Aid skills - to help you meet your goals.
REEL therapy for REAL change. Would you like to transform the way you respond to life’s stress? Learn tactics that help you show up as the best REAL version of yourself at home and at work? It’s my mission to create a therapeutic space where you will leave feeling heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of your health, mental well-being, and achieve your goals. Let’s strengthen your capacity to manage stress, symptoms, or trauma that may be holding you back from pursuing a life that aligns with your REAL value, your core values.
I use evidence-based practices – EMDR, ACT, CISM, Heartmath, Alpha Stim, Resilience & Stress First Aid skills - to help you meet your goals.
REEL therapy for REAL change. Would you like to transform the way you respond to life’s stress? Learn tactics that help you show up as the best REAL version of yourself at home and at work? It’s my mission to create a therapeutic space where you will leave feeling heard, understood, and empowered to take charge of your health, mental well-being, and achieve your goals. Let’s strengthen your capacity to manage stress, symptoms, or trauma that may be holding you back from pursuing a life that aligns with your REAL value, your core values.
(252) 253-6105 View (252) 253-6105
Photo of Seana Pernice, LCMHC
Seana Pernice
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hope Mills, NC 28348  (Online Only)
I am EMDR Trained.
Whether you are going through grief, healing from trauma, struggling with relationship issues or need assistance navigating life’s challenges and changes, I am here to help you achieve the clarity, confidence, and momentum necessary to get from where you are to where you want to be. Together, we will work to identify and address the issues and obstacles keeping you from moving forward and getting what you want out of your life.
I am EMDR Trained.
Whether you are going through grief, healing from trauma, struggling with relationship issues or need assistance navigating life’s challenges and changes, I am here to help you achieve the clarity, confidence, and momentum necessary to get from where you are to where you want to be. Together, we will work to identify and address the issues and obstacles keeping you from moving forward and getting what you want out of your life.
(910) 812-9922 View (910) 812-9922
Photo of Venita Wiley Wright, MS, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Venita Wiley Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kinston, NC 28501
I am EMDR Trained working toward EMDR Certification.
First, congratulations on taking the first step toward healing. Recognizing a problem is the first step toward finding solutions. Depression, anxiety, insecurity, fear, doubt and other feelings can weigh you down. These feelings can stem from trauma such as any form of abuse, neglect, domestic violence, infertility, divorce, loss of loved ones, medical problems, and other forms of trauma. You want change and need someone to help. You need a partner that understands and will walk with you on the journey of growth and healing. You have made the first step and you are ready to take the next. How do you get your life back?
I am EMDR Trained working toward EMDR Certification.
First, congratulations on taking the first step toward healing. Recognizing a problem is the first step toward finding solutions. Depression, anxiety, insecurity, fear, doubt and other feelings can weigh you down. These feelings can stem from trauma such as any form of abuse, neglect, domestic violence, infertility, divorce, loss of loved ones, medical problems, and other forms of trauma. You want change and need someone to help. You need a partner that understands and will walk with you on the journey of growth and healing. You have made the first step and you are ready to take the next. How do you get your life back?
(252) 775-8378 View (252) 775-8378
Photo of Ronald D. Blanchard, MS, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Ronald D. Blanchard
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28562
I blend my techniques carefully, utilizing my extensive knowledge of EMDR (I am certified in EMDR), CBT, REBT, and gestalt therapy to allow you to delve deep into your emotions and experiences.
I am trauma focused and work with people suffering from PTSD, trauma, (especially veterans and first responders). depression, anxiety, grief, transition, military issues, separation or divorce and substance use disorders/recovery. During our initial sessions, we will form a therapeutic partnership and delve deeply into the issues at hand and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a significant lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement thereafter. My philosophy of counseling is built on unconditional positive regard.
I blend my techniques carefully, utilizing my extensive knowledge of EMDR (I am certified in EMDR), CBT, REBT, and gestalt therapy to allow you to delve deep into your emotions and experiences.
I am trauma focused and work with people suffering from PTSD, trauma, (especially veterans and first responders). depression, anxiety, grief, transition, military issues, separation or divorce and substance use disorders/recovery. During our initial sessions, we will form a therapeutic partnership and delve deeply into the issues at hand and collaborate to create a plan for addressing them in a way that helps you get your life back. Most of my clients see a significant lifting of symptoms within the first month and sustained improvement thereafter. My philosophy of counseling is built on unconditional positive regard.
(252) 424-6401 x207 View (252) 424-6401 x207
Photo of Marilea D. Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marilea D. Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403
By integrating movement-based therapy activities, along with the use of EMDR and Sandtray, you’ll be able to heal your mind, body, and soul.
Going through grief and loss has made it feel like the ground has been pulled out from under you. Now, you’re navigating major life transitions while feeling as if you’re in a haze. The days blur together as you find yourself feeling lost and looking for an anchor, something to hold onto in the midst of the emotional storm. Some days, most days, it’s hard to even get out of bed. You wish you had the space just to breathe, cry, and yell out all your overwhelming emotions. It's as if the world keeps moving around you, but you're stuck in a place where everything feels different, even unrecognizable.
By integrating movement-based therapy activities, along with the use of EMDR and Sandtray, you’ll be able to heal your mind, body, and soul.
Going through grief and loss has made it feel like the ground has been pulled out from under you. Now, you’re navigating major life transitions while feeling as if you’re in a haze. The days blur together as you find yourself feeling lost and looking for an anchor, something to hold onto in the midst of the emotional storm. Some days, most days, it’s hard to even get out of bed. You wish you had the space just to breathe, cry, and yell out all your overwhelming emotions. It's as if the world keeps moving around you, but you're stuck in a place where everything feels different, even unrecognizable.
(910) 698-8119 View (910) 698-8119
Photo of Leigh Carter - Leigh Carter, LMFT, PLLC , MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leigh Carter, LMFT, PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR to help people target the roots of their distress and truly heal for the long run. After taking part in this therapy, emotions settle down, thoughts become more reasonable, and peace and relaxation are more easily experienced. EMDR is appropriate for a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger issues, and grief/loss. I provide EMDR therapy online through a HIPAA-compliant secure video platform.
I utilize EMDR to help people target the roots of their distress and truly heal for the long run. After taking part in this therapy, emotions settle down, thoughts become more reasonable, and peace and relaxation are more easily experienced. EMDR is appropriate for a variety of conditions including anxiety, depression, PTSD, anger issues, and grief/loss. I provide EMDR therapy online through a HIPAA-compliant secure video platform.
(910) 387-0644 View (910) 387-0644
Photo of Tracey R Frink, MS, LMFT-S, CST, EMDR, EAMH, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tracey R Frink
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT-S, CST, EMDR, EAMH
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28306
Tracey is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with additional training in trauma recovery, post-traumatic stress disorder/symptoms (PTSD), Sensory Processing Disorders, Equine Assisted Mental Health (EAMH), and Sex Therapy. Her unique experience embodies a holistic approach. She combines traditional talk therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), equine therapy, and somatic techniques for effective symptom relief and client empowerment. Tracey works with military personnel and their families, couples, and the LGBTQIA community. Tracey is knowledgeable of world religions, Native American spirituality and Christian faiths; she is understanding of individuals who consider themselves atheist, humanist, agnostic, seeker, or other.
Tracey is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with additional training in trauma recovery, post-traumatic stress disorder/symptoms (PTSD), Sensory Processing Disorders, Equine Assisted Mental Health (EAMH), and Sex Therapy. Her unique experience embodies a holistic approach. She combines traditional talk therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), equine therapy, and somatic techniques for effective symptom relief and client empowerment. Tracey works with military personnel and their families, couples, and the LGBTQIA community. Tracey is knowledgeable of world religions, Native American spirituality and Christian faiths; she is understanding of individuals who consider themselves atheist, humanist, agnostic, seeker, or other.
(910) 479-4710 View (910) 479-4710
Photo of Renee Martin McCauley, MEd, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Renee Martin McCauley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
I employ various therapeutic approaches such as, Insight-Oriented Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Therapy and Mindfulness practices.
Hi there, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 18 years of experience in the mental health field. My primary goal as a therapist is to authentically connect with my clients. I believe being present is the fundamental element in building successful therapeutic relationships. It is a privilege to be entrusted with clients' most intimate challenges and dreams. I work with individuals dealing with a vast array of issues. A few of my special interests include: life transitions, mood disorders, working with artists/creative thinkers, the LGBT+ community, addiction & recovery, women’s issues and holistic health.
I employ various therapeutic approaches such as, Insight-Oriented Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Gestalt Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Therapy and Mindfulness practices.
Hi there, I am a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor with 18 years of experience in the mental health field. My primary goal as a therapist is to authentically connect with my clients. I believe being present is the fundamental element in building successful therapeutic relationships. It is a privilege to be entrusted with clients' most intimate challenges and dreams. I work with individuals dealing with a vast array of issues. A few of my special interests include: life transitions, mood disorders, working with artists/creative thinkers, the LGBT+ community, addiction & recovery, women’s issues and holistic health.
(910) 556-6009 View (910) 556-6009
Photo of Jason Timothy Martin, MAC, LCMHC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason Timothy Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAC, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, NC 28303
Asking for help can be difficult, but it's something we all need to do at some point in our lives. It can take a great deal of courage to make that first call, but I'm here to help.
Asking for help can be difficult, but it's something we all need to do at some point in our lives. It can take a great deal of courage to make that first call, but I'm here to help.
(910) 994-7971 View (910) 994-7971
Photo of Janelle Fleck, MAEd, LCMHC
Janelle Fleck
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MAEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with relationship challenges, or just feeling held back by past emotional wounds or self-limiting beliefs? If outdated patterns are keeping you stuck, if you're looking for clarity and are ready for change and growth, you're in the right place! I specialize in relational trauma, anxiety disorders, family of origin dynamics, and intimate relationships. I offer person-centered, compassionate guidance that is empowering and strength-focused. Additionally, I have extensive training in evidence-based and trauma-informed practices, including Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems approaches.
Are you struggling with relationship challenges, or just feeling held back by past emotional wounds or self-limiting beliefs? If outdated patterns are keeping you stuck, if you're looking for clarity and are ready for change and growth, you're in the right place! I specialize in relational trauma, anxiety disorders, family of origin dynamics, and intimate relationships. I offer person-centered, compassionate guidance that is empowering and strength-focused. Additionally, I have extensive training in evidence-based and trauma-informed practices, including Trauma-focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems approaches.
(704) 270-2701 View (704) 270-2701
Photo of Karen R Liddell, PhD, LCPC, Rev, Pastoral Counselor
Karen R Liddell
Pastoral Counselor, PhD, LCPC, Rev
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
New Bern, NC 28560  (Online Only)
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
My program is most successful with people who recognize they need change, are ready to change, and believe it’s possible. They can identify at least one problem or unreached goal and are committed to learning something new. The clients that experience the fastest changes are those most willing to consider new perspectives about their pain or people and try new approaches. We're not going to talk a lot about the whys, we'll address the what - what is wrong and what you want instead. If you're ready to release the trauma and embrace joy, forgiveness, and freedom, you're a great fit!
(980) 372-8371 View (980) 372-8371
Photo of Tracy R Perez, MS, LCMHC
Tracy R Perez
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jacksonville, NC 28546
Are you looking for a specialist in trauma, anxiety, relationships, and sex therapy? Maybe your partner is now just your roommate? Wonder why you have a racing heart and can't control the worry? What if you feel like your trauma is taking over your entire life? Rather isolate than continue to swipe right into empty relationships? Is your sexual "performance" preventing you from showing up in the bedroom? These are stories I hear often. Elevated worry, unprocessed trauma events, and sexual concerns can be overwhelming!
Are you looking for a specialist in trauma, anxiety, relationships, and sex therapy? Maybe your partner is now just your roommate? Wonder why you have a racing heart and can't control the worry? What if you feel like your trauma is taking over your entire life? Rather isolate than continue to swipe right into empty relationships? Is your sexual "performance" preventing you from showing up in the bedroom? These are stories I hear often. Elevated worry, unprocessed trauma events, and sexual concerns can be overwhelming!
(910) 240-4157 View (910) 240-4157
Photo of Christopher Floro - Thrive Counseling & Consulting PLLC, LCMHC, LMFT, MSW, LCAS, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thrive Counseling & Consulting PLLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LCMHC, LMFT, MSW, LCAS, RPT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fayetteville, NC 28304
Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We all experience moments that leave us feeling hopeless, sad, frustrated, angry, or frightened. However, life is not meant to be lived in that place of darkness. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Using complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will help unearth old behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're ready to take steps forward, we are ready to help.
Our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. We all experience moments that leave us feeling hopeless, sad, frustrated, angry, or frightened. However, life is not meant to be lived in that place of darkness. While we can't change the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. Using complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will help unearth old behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're ready to take steps forward, we are ready to help.
(910) 483-5884 View (910) 483-5884
Photo of Janice Mann, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Janice Mann
Lic Clinical Mental Health Counselor Supervisor, LCMHCS, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
Wilmington, NC 28403
Waitlist for new clients
It is hard to focus on the current moment. It is a challenge to stay attached and connected to your body. There are so many things going on, and all you can experience are images, smells, and feelings of times when you were forced to survive. You may think, "How do I let go" "How do I find connection" There may be times that you lose hours or days, and come to ask yourself, "How did I get here" and "How do I talk about what's going on without feeling like a burden?" There may be times when you feel you cannot connect to others as your life experiences feel too big. You may feel shame in your experiences, and others may not relate to
It is hard to focus on the current moment. It is a challenge to stay attached and connected to your body. There are so many things going on, and all you can experience are images, smells, and feelings of times when you were forced to survive. You may think, "How do I let go" "How do I find connection" There may be times that you lose hours or days, and come to ask yourself, "How did I get here" and "How do I talk about what's going on without feeling like a burden?" There may be times when you feel you cannot connect to others as your life experiences feel too big. You may feel shame in your experiences, and others may not relate to
(910) 210-6160 View (910) 210-6160
Photo of Kimberly DePue, LCSW, LCAS, CCS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly DePue
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS, CCS
Verified Verified
New Bern, NC 28562
Waitlist for new clients
Welcome! I am a warm, non-judgmental and real person. One of my basic tenants is we, as people, are doing the best we can, and sometimes our conscious or subconscious "plan" to take care of ourselves is just not working anymore. Sometimes we need to develop a new “plan” but that can be difficult and we need help. The relationship with ourselves, family, friends and our community is a pillar to good health and well being. However things get in the way….like trauma, substance use, addiction, depression, anxiety, loneliness, illness, & fear. I want to support your concerns and help you improve your sense of wellbeing.
Welcome! I am a warm, non-judgmental and real person. One of my basic tenants is we, as people, are doing the best we can, and sometimes our conscious or subconscious "plan" to take care of ourselves is just not working anymore. Sometimes we need to develop a new “plan” but that can be difficult and we need help. The relationship with ourselves, family, friends and our community is a pillar to good health and well being. However things get in the way….like trauma, substance use, addiction, depression, anxiety, loneliness, illness, & fear. I want to support your concerns and help you improve your sense of wellbeing.
(252) 460-2825 View (252) 460-2825
Photo of Andrea Lee Abbott - Healing Hearts Therapeutic Services PLLC, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Hearts Therapeutic Services PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Raeford, NC 28376
Ask about video sessions. With the current evolving nature of COVID-19, we are now offering telemental health (TMH) sessions for all clients. It is an effective means of meeting your mental health needs when a trip to the office is not possible. ALSO OFFERING TELE-PLAY THERAPY- The premise of play therapy is to meet children where they are and to speak their language. Technology is the modern facilitator of that language. Ultimately, while the work is slightly modified virtually, the therapeutic effects of having a space to process all that is presently occurring for them is invaluable. We're here to help!
Ask about video sessions. With the current evolving nature of COVID-19, we are now offering telemental health (TMH) sessions for all clients. It is an effective means of meeting your mental health needs when a trip to the office is not possible. ALSO OFFERING TELE-PLAY THERAPY- The premise of play therapy is to meet children where they are and to speak their language. Technology is the modern facilitator of that language. Ultimately, while the work is slightly modified virtually, the therapeutic effects of having a space to process all that is presently occurring for them is invaluable. We're here to help!
(910) 828-2483 View (910) 828-2483
Photo of Mary F Summerlin - Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Brighter Life Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, LCAS, CCMC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Jacksonville, NC 28540
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
Life can be very difficult at times, and I want to help. I have had the opportunity to train in a variety of therapeutic modalities, making me uniquely qualified to utilize the interventions that are most appropriate for each of my clients. In order to determine the most appropriate form of treatment, I collaborate with each of my clients to determine the issues they would like to address and the goals they would like to achieve. We are then in a better position to determine the most efficacious treatment modality.
(910) 378-3685 View (910) 378-3685
Photo of Cathy Ann Cosentino, LMFT, Esq, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cathy Ann Cosentino
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, Esq
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28401
Kevin Bacon was once asked, “What makes your marriage last?” He didn’t miss a beat: “Clean fighting and dirty sex.” He has a point. The way a couple fights truly impacts their health and their relationship. There are additional influences that create disharmony between two people. Loss of connection, loneliness and conflict avoidance are all precursors to infidelity. I work with couples in crisis from the recent discovery of betrayal and/or past addictions and other relationship struggles. Healing won’t be easy, but it is possible. It’s a painful journey that will take time. I work to make that journey easier.
Kevin Bacon was once asked, “What makes your marriage last?” He didn’t miss a beat: “Clean fighting and dirty sex.” He has a point. The way a couple fights truly impacts their health and their relationship. There are additional influences that create disharmony between two people. Loss of connection, loneliness and conflict avoidance are all precursors to infidelity. I work with couples in crisis from the recent discovery of betrayal and/or past addictions and other relationship struggles. Healing won’t be easy, but it is possible. It’s a painful journey that will take time. I work to make that journey easier.
(910) 765-8910 View (910) 765-8910
Photo of Lauren Rodgers - Women's Integrative Counseling, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CMHIMP, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Women's Integrative Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC, LCAS, CMHIMP, CCATP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wilmington, NC 28403  (Online Only)
Many women struggle with anxious feelings, isolation, and stress. Too often, though, such feelings are pushed by the wayside. We understand that women face a myriad of challenges and transitions in their lives, from navigating relationships and motherhood, to managing career demands and societal expectations. That is where Women’s Integrative Counseling comes in to help. We are a therapy practice dedicated to providing compassionate and empowering support to women on their unique journeys towards mental and emotional well-being. We are deeply committed to creating a safe and nurturing space where women can explore, heal, and thrive.
Many women struggle with anxious feelings, isolation, and stress. Too often, though, such feelings are pushed by the wayside. We understand that women face a myriad of challenges and transitions in their lives, from navigating relationships and motherhood, to managing career demands and societal expectations. That is where Women’s Integrative Counseling comes in to help. We are a therapy practice dedicated to providing compassionate and empowering support to women on their unique journeys towards mental and emotional well-being. We are deeply committed to creating a safe and nurturing space where women can explore, heal, and thrive.
(910) 338-4168 View (910) 338-4168

See more therapy options for Saint James

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.