EMDR Therapists in Piedmont, SC
Xpressions Therapy, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Piedmont, SC 29673 (Online Only)
Book Today for A Better Life. Accepting clients in SC and FL. I am a LISW-CP in the state of SC who has 8 years plus of experience providing clinical care services to individuals and couples in a multitude of healthcare and therapeutic environments. I completed a Bachelor of Science in Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina – Upstate in 2013 and a Master of Social Work from the University of South Carolina – Columbia in 2016. Moreover, I completed various trainings in trauma ( EMDR), relationship/sexual issues, and depression/anxiety.
Book Today for A Better Life. Accepting clients in SC and FL. I am a LISW-CP in the state of SC who has 8 years plus of experience providing clinical care services to individuals and couples in a multitude of healthcare and therapeutic environments. I completed a Bachelor of Science in Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina – Upstate in 2013 and a Master of Social Work from the University of South Carolina – Columbia in 2016. Moreover, I completed various trainings in trauma ( EMDR), relationship/sexual issues, and depression/anxiety.
My trainings include EMDR, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, teen and women’s issues .
I believe we have the answers to our biggest challenges within us. My approach to counseling is best decribed as highly relational, believing that the most important aspect of the counseling process is our relationship. By providing empathy, understanding and mutual respect I walk with my clients in their path of self discovery. I incorporate cognitive-behavioral practices with my knowledge of physical wellness to promote a well-being that is not only emotionally healthy, but physically too. My practice is devoted to helping others live life to their fullest.
My trainings include EMDR, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, teen and women’s issues .
I believe we have the answers to our biggest challenges within us. My approach to counseling is best decribed as highly relational, believing that the most important aspect of the counseling process is our relationship. By providing empathy, understanding and mutual respect I walk with my clients in their path of self discovery. I incorporate cognitive-behavioral practices with my knowledge of physical wellness to promote a well-being that is not only emotionally healthy, but physically too. My practice is devoted to helping others live life to their fullest.
Yadira Baez-Lockard, Psy.D. Forensic
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, Legal
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Piedmont, SC 29673
Dr. Lockard was awarded her Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, Illinois. She completed her internship at the Kentucky Department of Corrections where she focused on the treatment of male and female sex offender treatment. Her experience includes years of forensic and clinical treatment and evaluation in out-patient, in-patient, and correctional settings. Such experiences include: Community Mental Health Clinics, Autism Clinics, County and Psychiatric Hospitals, and state behavioral and social services agencies. Her areas of expertise (all bilingual) include: clinical, criminal forensic, psychosexual, and neuropsychological assessment and treatment.
Dr. Lockard was awarded her Doctor of Psychology (Psy.D.) degree from the Adler School of Professional Psychology in Chicago, Illinois. She completed her internship at the Kentucky Department of Corrections where she focused on the treatment of male and female sex offender treatment. Her experience includes years of forensic and clinical treatment and evaluation in out-patient, in-patient, and correctional settings. Such experiences include: Community Mental Health Clinics, Autism Clinics, County and Psychiatric Hospitals, and state behavioral and social services agencies. Her areas of expertise (all bilingual) include: clinical, criminal forensic, psychosexual, and neuropsychological assessment and treatment.
John E. Epps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Piedmont, SC 29673 (Online Only)
I am accepting new patients for Telehealth appointments. Please email me and I will get back with you ASAP! You're welcome to call, but emails are easier to respond to. I love working with clients to help them see their inherent human value and to help them achieve their goals. I believe that healing is absolutely possible and will commit to helping clients on that journey. Together, we will address those critical self-thoughts and work towards replacing them with authentic and affirming thoughts. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to learn and grow and heal. I work with clients ages 16 and older.
I am accepting new patients for Telehealth appointments. Please email me and I will get back with you ASAP! You're welcome to call, but emails are easier to respond to. I love working with clients to help them see their inherent human value and to help them achieve their goals. I believe that healing is absolutely possible and will commit to helping clients on that journey. Together, we will address those critical self-thoughts and work towards replacing them with authentic and affirming thoughts. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to learn and grow and heal. I work with clients ages 16 and older.
Christine Dowling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Piedmont, SC 29673
Not accepting new clients
Specialty trainings I have completed include a 200-hour, Yoga Alliance certified teacher training, an EMDRIA approved EMDR training utilizing a somatic, attachment focused (S.
A guiding principle in working with any client is to see that person as a unique individual with strengths and potential far greater than the problem that has brought them to my door. My job is to tap into those strengths, to help you see your potential, and to support you in making the change you are seeking to achieve. I incorporate a holistic approach that looks at a client from a whole person, mind-body perspective, focusing on identifying relational, lifestyle, or cognitive changes that may be beneficial to reaching your identified goals.
Specialty trainings I have completed include a 200-hour, Yoga Alliance certified teacher training, an EMDRIA approved EMDR training utilizing a somatic, attachment focused (S.
A guiding principle in working with any client is to see that person as a unique individual with strengths and potential far greater than the problem that has brought them to my door. My job is to tap into those strengths, to help you see your potential, and to support you in making the change you are seeking to achieve. I incorporate a holistic approach that looks at a client from a whole person, mind-body perspective, focusing on identifying relational, lifestyle, or cognitive changes that may be beneficial to reaching your identified goals.
More Therapists Nearby
Sarah Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601 (Online Only)
She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a model used to treat trauma-related symptoms and issues such as anxiety and mood disorders.
Do you feel stuck? Like you are only living a half-life, barely able to keep your head up, sinking beneath the waves of life? You may find yourself struggling to cope with work, school or family life. Whether you are experiencing the pain of depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or have experienced trauma, you don't have to do this alone. It is possible to feel better again and counseling can help.
She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a model used to treat trauma-related symptoms and issues such as anxiety and mood disorders.
Do you feel stuck? Like you are only living a half-life, barely able to keep your head up, sinking beneath the waves of life? You may find yourself struggling to cope with work, school or family life. Whether you are experiencing the pain of depression, anxiety, grief, loss, or have experienced trauma, you don't have to do this alone. It is possible to feel better again and counseling can help.
Jennifer Walker
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601 (Online Only)
Safety is always first and it is my job to teach you how to trust yourself to regulate through EMDR therapy as well as cognitive restructuring techniques.
As a trauma therapist, I work with clients to develop healthy coping strategies to promote wellness as it relates to the impact of trauma or stressful experiences from the past. I typically incorporate various techniques including art, nature, and breath-work into traditional evidence based therapies. I will start by asking you to think about what you will be doing, thinking, and feeling differently when you don't need therapy anymore. We can then collaborate to create a roadmap to meet your goals. Sometimes even thinking about the end goal can be scary; that's ok, we can figure it out together!
Safety is always first and it is my job to teach you how to trust yourself to regulate through EMDR therapy as well as cognitive restructuring techniques.
As a trauma therapist, I work with clients to develop healthy coping strategies to promote wellness as it relates to the impact of trauma or stressful experiences from the past. I typically incorporate various techniques including art, nature, and breath-work into traditional evidence based therapies. I will start by asking you to think about what you will be doing, thinking, and feeling differently when you don't need therapy anymore. We can then collaborate to create a roadmap to meet your goals. Sometimes even thinking about the end goal can be scary; that's ok, we can figure it out together!
Her expertise in these areas is grounded in her compassionate approach and her training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a powerful therapy for trauma and related issues.
Candee Martin, LISWCP, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health in South Carolina, committed to empowering clients to advocate for themselves, build confidence, and embrace their resilience. She helps clients navigate the complexities of anxiety, grief, low selfesteem, and sadness, guiding them toward selfactualization and a thriving life. Candee specializes in trauma processing, working closely with individuals to explore and heal from past experiences, so they can move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.
Her expertise in these areas is grounded in her compassionate approach and her training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a powerful therapy for trauma and related issues.
Candee Martin, LISWCP, is a dedicated therapist at LifeStance Health in South Carolina, committed to empowering clients to advocate for themselves, build confidence, and embrace their resilience. She helps clients navigate the complexities of anxiety, grief, low selfesteem, and sadness, guiding them toward selfactualization and a thriving life. Candee specializes in trauma processing, working closely with individuals to explore and heal from past experiences, so they can move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.
Megan Black
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29605
I am very proud to offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy and find this to be very effective for trauma and a variety of issues.
I have found it an honor to play a role in the lives of those who have entrusted me with the truth of their internal world and the unique experiences that shape and enrich their lives. I always am amazed as I hear stories of pain and obstacles and strengths from clients. While it is intense work at times, it is very rewarding for clients to encounter the experiences of the past and present with support in the "here and now". Helping those with a history of trauma, losses/grief and the after-effects like depression, anxiety, dissociation and addiction, and relationship issues is very meaningful to me. Healing is possible!
I am very proud to offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Therapy and find this to be very effective for trauma and a variety of issues.
I have found it an honor to play a role in the lives of those who have entrusted me with the truth of their internal world and the unique experiences that shape and enrich their lives. I always am amazed as I hear stories of pain and obstacles and strengths from clients. While it is intense work at times, it is very rewarding for clients to encounter the experiences of the past and present with support in the "here and now". Helping those with a history of trauma, losses/grief and the after-effects like depression, anxiety, dissociation and addiction, and relationship issues is very meaningful to me. Healing is possible!
John Lloyd Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607
I also use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to facilitate recovery from trauma and OCD.
Are you looking to make meaningful, permanent changes in your life with things that matter: Developing deep, trusting relationships, overcoming self-defeating patterns and past trauma, finding meaning in your life? In my practice I focus on creating deep insight and long-lasting change. My method - psychodynamic therapy - typically lasts between 6 months to 2 years. It is a complex, time-proven treatment method that makes profound, enduring change in your life. Studies show that psychodynamic therapy is not only as effective as other therapies, but that unlike other therapies, you continue to improve, even years after therapy ends.
I also use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to facilitate recovery from trauma and OCD.
Are you looking to make meaningful, permanent changes in your life with things that matter: Developing deep, trusting relationships, overcoming self-defeating patterns and past trauma, finding meaning in your life? In my practice I focus on creating deep insight and long-lasting change. My method - psychodynamic therapy - typically lasts between 6 months to 2 years. It is a complex, time-proven treatment method that makes profound, enduring change in your life. Studies show that psychodynamic therapy is not only as effective as other therapies, but that unlike other therapies, you continue to improve, even years after therapy ends.
Talia Toback
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29604 (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and utilize evidenced-based treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy.
I am passionate about helping people develop hope and meaning in their lives and working together to create an individualized plan to meet their goals. Therapy is an opportunity to work on healthy relationships, build self-esteem, navigate life transitions, overcome how trauma, depression, and/or anxiety have impacted daily life and more. I work with individuals as well as couples and families and offer a sliding fee scale. When you are ready to restore wellness in your life, please reach out to schedule an appointment.
I am a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker and utilize evidenced-based treatment modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Mindfulness-Based Therapy.
I am passionate about helping people develop hope and meaning in their lives and working together to create an individualized plan to meet their goals. Therapy is an opportunity to work on healthy relationships, build self-esteem, navigate life transitions, overcome how trauma, depression, and/or anxiety have impacted daily life and more. I work with individuals as well as couples and families and offer a sliding fee scale. When you are ready to restore wellness in your life, please reach out to schedule an appointment.
Available for both telehealth and in-person sessions! My practice interests are in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, bi-polar disorders, workplace bullying, and relationship problems. I am an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Trained Psychotherapist. EMDR is a treatment technique that facilitates the reprocessing of traumatic memories. Scientific research has established EMDR as effective for the treatment of post-traumatic stress, phobias, panic attacks, anxiety disorders, stress, sexual and physical abuse, disturbing memories, complicated grief, and addictions.
Available for both telehealth and in-person sessions! My practice interests are in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, grief, bi-polar disorders, workplace bullying, and relationship problems. I am an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Trained Psychotherapist. EMDR is a treatment technique that facilitates the reprocessing of traumatic memories. Scientific research has established EMDR as effective for the treatment of post-traumatic stress, phobias, panic attacks, anxiety disorders, stress, sexual and physical abuse, disturbing memories, complicated grief, and addictions.
David Rosenberg
Pre-Licensed Professional, NCRC, NCLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601
Using EMDR, mindfulness, narrative therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, I can help you build a better path for yourself.
Do you feel trapped in a story that you don't like? Do you feel powerless, misunderstood, or lacking in some way? So much of what we experience is the result of the stories we believe about ourselves. Often, we don't examine these stories to see if they're true. I want to help you break through to a more genuine understanding of yourself. We'll look for your strengths, abilities, and true interests and we'll work to discover how you can rise above the limitations you currently perceive. I have years of experience successfully coaching people with anxiety, mental health challenges and addictions. I'd be honored to work with you.
Using EMDR, mindfulness, narrative therapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, I can help you build a better path for yourself.
Do you feel trapped in a story that you don't like? Do you feel powerless, misunderstood, or lacking in some way? So much of what we experience is the result of the stories we believe about ourselves. Often, we don't examine these stories to see if they're true. I want to help you break through to a more genuine understanding of yourself. We'll look for your strengths, abilities, and true interests and we'll work to discover how you can rise above the limitations you currently perceive. I have years of experience successfully coaching people with anxiety, mental health challenges and addictions. I'd be honored to work with you.
Karen Strange
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CST, CSAT, CPTT, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601
I am also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy & certified in EMDR.
As a Certified Sex Addictions Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and co-founder of the Center for Sexual and Relational Health, I specialize in helping individuals and couples struggling with sexual/porn addiction, compulsive sexual behaviors, infidelity, and the associated trauma from those behaviors. Because sexual/porn addiction impacts the entire family system, I am also a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist as I help partners navigate the emotional impact created by the problematic behaviors of their loved ones. I journey alongside my clients to help them create a new narrative for themselves so they can move forward.
I am also trained in Accelerated Resolution Therapy & certified in EMDR.
As a Certified Sex Addictions Therapist, Certified Sex Therapist, and co-founder of the Center for Sexual and Relational Health, I specialize in helping individuals and couples struggling with sexual/porn addiction, compulsive sexual behaviors, infidelity, and the associated trauma from those behaviors. Because sexual/porn addiction impacts the entire family system, I am also a Certified Partner Trauma Therapist as I help partners navigate the emotional impact created by the problematic behaviors of their loved ones. I journey alongside my clients to help them create a new narrative for themselves so they can move forward.
Wendi Norris
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29601
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) integrated with evidence-based supportive therapy techniques.
Have you been feeling lost & wondering why life seems so hard? Do you want to be happier, less stressed, feel more at ease? It can be so painful when you know that you want something different, but you feel "stuck" and unsure of how to make a change. I am passionate about helping you unlock these answers that are already inside of you. I am committed to creating a safe space where you are heard and feel understood. I bring my expertise, you bring your self-knowledge, and together we get you mobilized towards more of what you want to be experiencing.
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) integrated with evidence-based supportive therapy techniques.
Have you been feeling lost & wondering why life seems so hard? Do you want to be happier, less stressed, feel more at ease? It can be so painful when you know that you want something different, but you feel "stuck" and unsure of how to make a change. I am passionate about helping you unlock these answers that are already inside of you. I am committed to creating a safe space where you are heard and feel understood. I bring my expertise, you bring your self-knowledge, and together we get you mobilized towards more of what you want to be experiencing.
Shiri Kaczur, MA, LPC - Whole Body Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am professionally trained and experienced in a number of proven modalities which target this, including EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems.
I specialize in healing from deeply-rooted trauma and distressing life events. If you've been in therapy before and still struggle with problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors which interfere in day-to-day life, a more comprehensive approach may help. Research has shown that present day mental health challenges which originate from earlier life experiences often require intervention with the parts of our system which hold verbal and pre-verbal conditioning. Using both cognitive (brain-focused) AND somatic (body-focused) interventions ensures that all parts of our body are integrated into the healing process.
I am professionally trained and experienced in a number of proven modalities which target this, including EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, and Internal Family Systems.
I specialize in healing from deeply-rooted trauma and distressing life events. If you've been in therapy before and still struggle with problematic thoughts, feelings, and behaviors which interfere in day-to-day life, a more comprehensive approach may help. Research has shown that present day mental health challenges which originate from earlier life experiences often require intervention with the parts of our system which hold verbal and pre-verbal conditioning. Using both cognitive (brain-focused) AND somatic (body-focused) interventions ensures that all parts of our body are integrated into the healing process.
Kelsey Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29601
This interference can be combated using EMDR; assisting you in breaking these negative beliefs and help enhance performance.
I believe when you are struggling with traumatic stress, negative-false beliefs often stick and prohibit you from change. Through talk therapy and EMDR, I believe there is a benefit in addressing the issue(s) head on; along with looking in ourselves for processing potentials. Through collaborative work, goals will be met and a more positive, realistic outlook on life will hold true. Traumatic Stress is an intrusion that can manifest within you as any number of symptoms (flashbacks, intense emotions, somatic sensations, nightmares, pervasive life themes, and character styles).
This interference can be combated using EMDR; assisting you in breaking these negative beliefs and help enhance performance.
I believe when you are struggling with traumatic stress, negative-false beliefs often stick and prohibit you from change. Through talk therapy and EMDR, I believe there is a benefit in addressing the issue(s) head on; along with looking in ourselves for processing potentials. Through collaborative work, goals will be met and a more positive, realistic outlook on life will hold true. Traumatic Stress is an intrusion that can manifest within you as any number of symptoms (flashbacks, intense emotions, somatic sensations, nightmares, pervasive life themes, and character styles).
Kimberly is trained in EMDR, the HEART Model, TF-CBT, and many other modalities to treat couples, families, and individuals with a variety of needs.
Kimberly Lewis, LPC Kimberly Lewis is a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2015. She is currently on her Ph.D. at Walden University in Clinical Education and Supervision. She has a MA from Regent University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a BA in Human Services. Kimberly is an empathetic, genuine, and warm therapist offering unconditional positive regard to all of her clients. She has a variety of trauma certifications to treat PTSD, sexual trauma, acute stress, anxiety disorders, depression, panic disorders, and more.
Kimberly is trained in EMDR, the HEART Model, TF-CBT, and many other modalities to treat couples, families, and individuals with a variety of needs.
Kimberly Lewis, LPC Kimberly Lewis is a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2015. She is currently on her Ph.D. at Walden University in Clinical Education and Supervision. She has a MA from Regent University in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a BA in Human Services. Kimberly is an empathetic, genuine, and warm therapist offering unconditional positive regard to all of her clients. She has a variety of trauma certifications to treat PTSD, sexual trauma, acute stress, anxiety disorders, depression, panic disorders, and more.
My therapeutic approach includes elements of Internal Family Systems, EMDR (Eye movement desensitization reprocessing), mindfulness, body awareness, and expressive art techniques.
I work best with individuals who are tired of feeling exhausted and weighed down by anxious thoughts. My clients often find themselves stuck in unhealthy cycles, struggling with the impacts of trauma, or having difficulty articulating their needs and desires or managing ADHD symptoms. They may feel lost and unsure of what they truly want, but they are ready for a change. As a guide, I focus on helping these individuals reconnect with their wise, compassionate, and loving selves. Through this process, my clients gain the clarity, confidence, and compassion they seek, fostering deeper connections both with themselves and others.
My therapeutic approach includes elements of Internal Family Systems, EMDR (Eye movement desensitization reprocessing), mindfulness, body awareness, and expressive art techniques.
I work best with individuals who are tired of feeling exhausted and weighed down by anxious thoughts. My clients often find themselves stuck in unhealthy cycles, struggling with the impacts of trauma, or having difficulty articulating their needs and desires or managing ADHD symptoms. They may feel lost and unsure of what they truly want, but they are ready for a change. As a guide, I focus on helping these individuals reconnect with their wise, compassionate, and loving selves. Through this process, my clients gain the clarity, confidence, and compassion they seek, fostering deeper connections both with themselves and others.
I am trained in EMDR and use a strength-based approach to help empower clients to find the courage within themselves to grow and change.
I enjoy working with individuals as they navigate their way through challenging life experiences. I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients are able to develop a better understanding of themselves and their world. I feel it is imperative to form relationships built on trust, and believe that real progress can only be achieved when such a relationship exists.
I am trained in EMDR and use a strength-based approach to help empower clients to find the courage within themselves to grow and change.
I enjoy working with individuals as they navigate their way through challenging life experiences. I am committed to creating a safe and welcoming environment where clients are able to develop a better understanding of themselves and their world. I feel it is imperative to form relationships built on trust, and believe that real progress can only be achieved when such a relationship exists.
See more therapy options for Piedmont
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Piedmont
- Anderson
- Boiling Springs
- Clemson
- Easley
- Greenville
- Greer
- Inman
- Mauldin
- Seneca
- Simpsonville
- Taylors
- Travelers Rest
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.