EMDR Therapists in West Columbia, SC

Photo of Laly Jannette Rodriguez, EdD, LPC, LCAS, NCC, MAC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laly Jannette Rodriguez
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, LCAS, NCC, MAC
Verified Verified
West Columbia, SC 29169
Hola! Los servicios son ofrecidos en ambos Idiomas; Ingles y Español. Laly Rodriguez has over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Laly is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the states of North Carolina and South Carolina. She is also a Nationally Certified Master Addiction Counselor (MAC). She received her undergraduate degree in Social Work, and her graduate degrees in, Psychology and Mental Health Counseling. She holds a Doctorate degree, and is certified in Addictions, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Solution focused, PTSD, and TBI
Hola! Los servicios son ofrecidos en ambos Idiomas; Ingles y Español. Laly Rodriguez has over 15 years of experience providing therapeutic services to children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Laly is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in the states of North Carolina and South Carolina. She is also a Nationally Certified Master Addiction Counselor (MAC). She received her undergraduate degree in Social Work, and her graduate degrees in, Psychology and Mental Health Counseling. She holds a Doctorate degree, and is certified in Addictions, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Solution focused, PTSD, and TBI
(803) 610-2974 View (803) 610-2974
Photo of Kenneth R. Taylor, LPC, LPCS, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kenneth R. Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCS, CSAT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169  (Online Only)
I am Dr. Ken Taylor, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPCS) and a Certified Sexual Addictions Therapist (CSAT). I specialize in helping men overcome Problematic Sexual Behavior (PSB) through secure and private telehealth sessions. Utilizing advanced telehealth platforms, I offer confidential therapy from the comfort of your own space. This approach ensures you receive high-quality professional care without worrying about entering a public office setting. My methods include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR, and specialized strategies to address PSB effectively.
I am Dr. Ken Taylor, a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor (LPCS) and a Certified Sexual Addictions Therapist (CSAT). I specialize in helping men overcome Problematic Sexual Behavior (PSB) through secure and private telehealth sessions. Utilizing advanced telehealth platforms, I offer confidential therapy from the comfort of your own space. This approach ensures you receive high-quality professional care without worrying about entering a public office setting. My methods include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR, and specialized strategies to address PSB effectively.
(803) 310-2101 View (803) 310-2101
Photo of Ronald Patrick Pellicer, MRC, LPC, LAC, LPC/S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ronald Patrick Pellicer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC, LAC, LPC/S
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169
I am most comfortable with EMDR/CPT, but I occasionally use some aspects of Psychodynamic, and Gestalt techniques.
My ideal client would be someone who is prepared to complete tasks that are agreed upon in-session between the client and the therapist. The client would complete these tasks, on their own, away from the session, and would review the results in the next weekly session. I believe that any change that is made in a client's life, even the tiniest, has the potential to be a positive force for overall change. These series of small changes can build momentum, session to session, that ultimately empowers the client to live the life that they want to live. I believe in the power of therapy to provide recovery for anyone who tries.
I am most comfortable with EMDR/CPT, but I occasionally use some aspects of Psychodynamic, and Gestalt techniques.
My ideal client would be someone who is prepared to complete tasks that are agreed upon in-session between the client and the therapist. The client would complete these tasks, on their own, away from the session, and would review the results in the next weekly session. I believe that any change that is made in a client's life, even the tiniest, has the potential to be a positive force for overall change. These series of small changes can build momentum, session to session, that ultimately empowers the client to live the life that they want to live. I believe in the power of therapy to provide recovery for anyone who tries.
(803) 825-4674 View (803) 825-4674
Photo of Devin James Dotter, LPCA
Devin James Dotter
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169
I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Hello! I’m Devin, a Licensed Professional Counseling Associate (LPCA), and I’m passionate about helping people navigate through life’s challenges. At the heart of my practice is a client-centered approach. This means that together, we’ll explore what type of therapy works best for you. My goal is to create a supportive and personalized space where we can work as a team to find the solutions that feel right for you.
I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Hello! I’m Devin, a Licensed Professional Counseling Associate (LPCA), and I’m passionate about helping people navigate through life’s challenges. At the heart of my practice is a client-centered approach. This means that together, we’ll explore what type of therapy works best for you. My goal is to create a supportive and personalized space where we can work as a team to find the solutions that feel right for you.
(803) 710-4511 View (803) 710-4511
Photo of Morgan Lee Pellicer, LPCA
Morgan Lee Pellicer
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPCA
Verified Verified
West Columbia, SC 29169
I am EMDR informed and trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy,.
Sometimes, life gets in the way. But other times, we get in the way of it. I remember what it feels like to wonder if things would always be this way, or if things were like this for everyone else too. I still don't have that answer. But what I have now that I didn't have then is insight, motivation for change and accountability. Whether you are struggling with anxiety/depression, relationship issues, co-dependency, coping skills, personality or mood disorders, intrusive thoughts, or insert whatever feels right here, I want to help you encourage yourself to self-reflect with realistic and achievable expectations for your life today.
I am EMDR informed and trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy,.
Sometimes, life gets in the way. But other times, we get in the way of it. I remember what it feels like to wonder if things would always be this way, or if things were like this for everyone else too. I still don't have that answer. But what I have now that I didn't have then is insight, motivation for change and accountability. Whether you are struggling with anxiety/depression, relationship issues, co-dependency, coping skills, personality or mood disorders, intrusive thoughts, or insert whatever feels right here, I want to help you encourage yourself to self-reflect with realistic and achievable expectations for your life today.
(803) 681-2752 View (803) 681-2752
Photo of Cal Hilsman, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cal Hilsman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169
Waitlist for new clients
Also, Cal is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), a unique treatment proven to alleviate problem symptoms rapidly.
Mental health is steadily gaining global recognition. Fortunately, with exposure comes greater access to treatment for those with mental health concerns. Unfortunately, the flip-side to increased exposure is standardization; society is quick to turn to diagnoses and labels to simplify the complexities of human beings. Although diagnoses can be helpful, it is important to remember: you are not just not a label or a diagnosis. With Cal Hilsman at Compassionate Acceptance for Life (CAL), you will find a therapist that prizes each client as unique and encourages self exploration beyond the standard internet search.
Also, Cal is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), a unique treatment proven to alleviate problem symptoms rapidly.
Mental health is steadily gaining global recognition. Fortunately, with exposure comes greater access to treatment for those with mental health concerns. Unfortunately, the flip-side to increased exposure is standardization; society is quick to turn to diagnoses and labels to simplify the complexities of human beings. Although diagnoses can be helpful, it is important to remember: you are not just not a label or a diagnosis. With Cal Hilsman at Compassionate Acceptance for Life (CAL), you will find a therapist that prizes each client as unique and encourages self exploration beyond the standard internet search.
(803) 219-8704 View (803) 219-8704
Photo of Maggie Malaney, LPC, Counselor
Maggie Malaney
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Columbia, SC 29172
She often utilizes EMDR, CBT, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused techniques.
Maggie Malaney is a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2015. She has an MA CMHC from South University and a BA Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina. Ready for change? Maggie believes change begins to happen when you feel seen, heard, and understood in the situations you are struggling with. Without this support, people often feel isolated, irritable, confused, shame, or helpless that their situation will get better. Maggie strives to create a safe and non-judgmental space so that you do not have to face things alone. You don't have to feel stuck.
She often utilizes EMDR, CBT, Mindfulness, and Solution-Focused techniques.
Maggie Malaney is a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2015. She has an MA CMHC from South University and a BA Experimental Psychology from the University of South Carolina. Ready for change? Maggie believes change begins to happen when you feel seen, heard, and understood in the situations you are struggling with. Without this support, people often feel isolated, irritable, confused, shame, or helpless that their situation will get better. Maggie strives to create a safe and non-judgmental space so that you do not have to face things alone. You don't have to feel stuck.
(803) 809-3018 View (803) 809-3018
Photo of Dr. Mari Bloing-Hart, PhD, LMSW
Dr. Mari Bloing-Hart
Master Social Worker, PhD, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29170
Certified in EMDR Therapy.
I understand how important emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health are for each of us, and I am dedicated to the process and journey to see that this is accomplished to the best of my abilities. I have been a practicing therapist for over 30 years. I have a breadth of training and experience.I am ethical,promoting high professional standards. I am caring and thorough, with a significant amount of compassion. My style is somewhat straight-forward, and I tend to tell it like I see it, hoping to help people move forward in a positive, but short term way.
Certified in EMDR Therapy.
I understand how important emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual health are for each of us, and I am dedicated to the process and journey to see that this is accomplished to the best of my abilities. I have been a practicing therapist for over 30 years. I have a breadth of training and experience.I am ethical,promoting high professional standards. I am caring and thorough, with a significant amount of compassion. My style is somewhat straight-forward, and I tend to tell it like I see it, hoping to help people move forward in a positive, but short term way.
(803) 596-0173 View (803) 596-0173
Photo of Darius Poitier, LCSW, LISW-CP, MBA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Darius Poitier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP, MBA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169
I utilize client centered, solution focused, CBT, DBT, and EMDR to assist clients in overcoming mental, emotional, and relational distress.
Are you having difficulty navigating your life currently? Are you experiencing anxiety and/or depression? Are you struggling to figure out the next steps in your life? Are you unhappy in your current relationship? Are struggling with the "new" normal? Are you asking yourself, why is this happening to me? Do you ask yourself "Now what" ? Having self-esteem issues? Are you struggling with anger management? If you answer yes to any of these questions I am the therapist for you. I am an experienced therapist who has assisted many clients in overcoming mental, emotional, and relational distress.
I utilize client centered, solution focused, CBT, DBT, and EMDR to assist clients in overcoming mental, emotional, and relational distress.
Are you having difficulty navigating your life currently? Are you experiencing anxiety and/or depression? Are you struggling to figure out the next steps in your life? Are you unhappy in your current relationship? Are struggling with the "new" normal? Are you asking yourself, why is this happening to me? Do you ask yourself "Now what" ? Having self-esteem issues? Are you struggling with anger management? If you answer yes to any of these questions I am the therapist for you. I am an experienced therapist who has assisted many clients in overcoming mental, emotional, and relational distress.
(803) 212-0392 View (803) 212-0392
Photo of Buffy Chapman, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Buffy Chapman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169
Through a compassionate and collaborative approach, I use evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Polyvagal Theory to help you heal and regain a sense of control over your life.
Have you had experiences of traumatic events leading to symptoms like flashbacks, hypervigilance, avoidance, and difficulty managing emotions? Do you have persistent feelings of worry, fear, sadness, or hopelessness that significantly impact your daily life? Do you experience chronic stress and exhaustion resulting from work-related demands, leading to decreased productivity, job dissatisfaction, and physical and mental health issues?
Through a compassionate and collaborative approach, I use evidence-based techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Polyvagal Theory to help you heal and regain a sense of control over your life.
Have you had experiences of traumatic events leading to symptoms like flashbacks, hypervigilance, avoidance, and difficulty managing emotions? Do you have persistent feelings of worry, fear, sadness, or hopelessness that significantly impact your daily life? Do you experience chronic stress and exhaustion resulting from work-related demands, leading to decreased productivity, job dissatisfaction, and physical and mental health issues?
(803) 592-6315 View (803) 592-6315
Photo of Dallas W. Kuhn, MRC, LPC, AADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dallas W. Kuhn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MRC, LPC, AADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169
Feeling stuck, depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, and misunderstood? Does your life lack meaning and purpose? Are you struggling with substance abuse, alcohol, or other addictions and feel your life is out of control? Are you not living the life you want? I know how you feel, and I can help. Our journey in life can sometimes be difficult, frightening, and painful. However, it’s through these moments that we find opportunity for our greatest growth, to become our genuine self, who we are meant to be.
Feeling stuck, depressed, anxious, overwhelmed, and misunderstood? Does your life lack meaning and purpose? Are you struggling with substance abuse, alcohol, or other addictions and feel your life is out of control? Are you not living the life you want? I know how you feel, and I can help. Our journey in life can sometimes be difficult, frightening, and painful. However, it’s through these moments that we find opportunity for our greatest growth, to become our genuine self, who we are meant to be.
(803) 310-2890 View (803) 310-2890
Photo of Shannon Wright, LISW-CP, ADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Wright
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP, ADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169
Deciding to start therapy can be scary and not knowing where to start can exasperate these feelings. However, whether you are looking to heal past trauma(s) or work towards personal growth, I’m glad you are here. I strive to offer individualized, client-centered services to help you work towards your goals in a safe environment.
Deciding to start therapy can be scary and not knowing where to start can exasperate these feelings. However, whether you are looking to heal past trauma(s) or work towards personal growth, I’m glad you are here. I strive to offer individualized, client-centered services to help you work towards your goals in a safe environment.
(803) 805-7139 View (803) 805-7139
Photo of Wynn Dupkoski - Yew Belong Community Services, Inc., PhD, LCMHC-S, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Yew Belong Community Services, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LCMHC-S, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
West Columbia, SC 29169
I support persons who are impacted by emotional, psychological, and/or spiritual barriers to achieving overall wellness. I work with persons who may feel hesitant to see a professional counselor due to inexperience with the process, negative experiences with counseling related to their identities, cultural/spiritual practices, or specific issues they would like to address. I offer a supportive space to explore how to integrate mind, body, and spirit goals through integrating professional counseling with each client's values to meet their goals and needs. You are the expert of you, and I am here to support you in being wholly YOU!
I support persons who are impacted by emotional, psychological, and/or spiritual barriers to achieving overall wellness. I work with persons who may feel hesitant to see a professional counselor due to inexperience with the process, negative experiences with counseling related to their identities, cultural/spiritual practices, or specific issues they would like to address. I offer a supportive space to explore how to integrate mind, body, and spirit goals through integrating professional counseling with each client's values to meet their goals and needs. You are the expert of you, and I am here to support you in being wholly YOU!
(803) 828-0205 View (803) 828-0205
Photo of Sherry Lewis, MA, LPCS, LPC, LAC, CACII, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sherry Lewis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, LPC, LAC, CACII
Verified Verified
West Columbia, SC 29169
Anastasis is the Greek word for which we derive the word "resurrection" meaning "raising up or rising up." Finding the ability to rise above life's challenges can leave you feeling hopeless and the journey to reconnect with life can often be a difficult one, especially when your journey includes recovery from traumatic events or struggles with substance addiction. I am here to walk along side you and help equip you for the bright future that awaits you. I believe you can hope again, you can dream again, your joy will be restored and your strength renewed. Yes, you can get up again!!!
Anastasis is the Greek word for which we derive the word "resurrection" meaning "raising up or rising up." Finding the ability to rise above life's challenges can leave you feeling hopeless and the journey to reconnect with life can often be a difficult one, especially when your journey includes recovery from traumatic events or struggles with substance addiction. I am here to walk along side you and help equip you for the bright future that awaits you. I believe you can hope again, you can dream again, your joy will be restored and your strength renewed. Yes, you can get up again!!!
(803) 302-3596 View (803) 302-3596
Photo of Carol E. O. Anderson - Palmetto Center for Change, LLC, MSW, LISW-CP, ACSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Palmetto Center for Change, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169  (Online Only)
Sometimes it can feel like we are treading water in a turbulent sea of emotion, bound by unhelpful thoughts and unrealistic expectations. A helping hand, a listening ear, and a vision of a new horizon can make all the difference. Therapy can be that safe harbor. My priority is for you to be seen, heard, and accepted as you strive toward your goals. I have a holistic approach and over 20 years of experience in helping clients navigate a variety of circumstances, whether that is recovering from traumatic experiences or navigating a neurotypical world while being neurodivergent. Change can be frightening, but change can be beautiful.
Sometimes it can feel like we are treading water in a turbulent sea of emotion, bound by unhelpful thoughts and unrealistic expectations. A helping hand, a listening ear, and a vision of a new horizon can make all the difference. Therapy can be that safe harbor. My priority is for you to be seen, heard, and accepted as you strive toward your goals. I have a holistic approach and over 20 years of experience in helping clients navigate a variety of circumstances, whether that is recovering from traumatic experiences or navigating a neurotypical world while being neurodivergent. Change can be frightening, but change can be beautiful.
(803) 459-1618 View (803) 459-1618
Photo of Theresa M Bonesteel - Theresa M. Bonesteel, LLC Counseling & Consulting, MA, NCC, LPC-S, LMFT-SC, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Theresa M. Bonesteel, LLC Counseling & Consulting
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC-S, LMFT-SC, CSAT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169
Waitlist for new clients
Do any of these statements sound familiar? "I feel like I'm going crazy!" "Life feels out of control!" "I'm a mess!" Sometimes life feels out of control and you may feel "crazy" or a "mess". Unloading the burden with a trusted person in a safe and confidential environment, knowing you aren't being judged, condemned or criticized can be freeing. Life can be hard! Some seasons are more difficult than others. My passion is to serve individuals, couples and families in a way that influences the whole family toward growth and health.
Do any of these statements sound familiar? "I feel like I'm going crazy!" "Life feels out of control!" "I'm a mess!" Sometimes life feels out of control and you may feel "crazy" or a "mess". Unloading the burden with a trusted person in a safe and confidential environment, knowing you aren't being judged, condemned or criticized can be freeing. Life can be hard! Some seasons are more difficult than others. My passion is to serve individuals, couples and families in a way that influences the whole family toward growth and health.
(803) 610-4733 View (803) 610-4733
Photo of Michelle Benson - LifeStance Health, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LifeStance Health
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Columbia, SC 29172
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
Making your first appointment can be one of the most challenging steps in your mental health journey. At LifeStance, we make it simple by offering both online and in-person therapy and psychiatry services, covered by major insurance plans.
(844) 235-2734 View (844) 235-2734
Photo of Doreen Vosburg - Vosburg Counseling, MEd, LPCC, LMHC, LPC, Counselor
Vosburg Counseling
Counselor, MEd, LPCC, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
West Columbia, SC 29169
You’re tired of waking up with cement on your chest. It’s hard to breathe. You’re exhausted before you even get out of bed, and when you do, you’re walking on eggshells in your own home. The isolation is mentally and physically exhausting. Friends don’t understand you, and your family can’t relate. As you become further isolated, you grow resentful, bitter, and angry.
You’re tired of waking up with cement on your chest. It’s hard to breathe. You’re exhausted before you even get out of bed, and when you do, you’re walking on eggshells in your own home. The isolation is mentally and physically exhausting. Friends don’t understand you, and your family can’t relate. As you become further isolated, you grow resentful, bitter, and angry.
(206) 785-3355 View (206) 785-3355
Photo of Patricia Card, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patricia Card
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169
Patricia Card is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience in the mental health profession and many life experiences which have enabled her to provide empathy, unconditional positive regard, and acceptance for each client’s perspective. She aspires to provide a safe space for individuals to realize their present and future potential through acknowledgment of past realities, and recognition of hope for the present and future. Patricia believes the client is the expert regarding their life and promotes clients to take control over their life to elevate themselves and build healthy relationships.
Patricia Card is a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with over 6 years of experience in the mental health profession and many life experiences which have enabled her to provide empathy, unconditional positive regard, and acceptance for each client’s perspective. She aspires to provide a safe space for individuals to realize their present and future potential through acknowledgment of past realities, and recognition of hope for the present and future. Patricia believes the client is the expert regarding their life and promotes clients to take control over their life to elevate themselves and build healthy relationships.
(803) 882-3793 View (803) 882-3793
Photo of Crystal H Berry, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal H Berry
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Columbia, SC 29169  (Online Only)
My clients are often dealing with symptoms associated with trauma. This may include domestic violence, marital issues, life changes, and other events. They are depressed, anxious, and unsure of where to turn. With the aid of coping skills, knowledge, and self-awareness, these symptoms can be alleviated and allow you to be your most authentic self. Many clients have goals that they wish to achieve and I work with them to accomplish those goals. Through talk therapy and proven techniques, we can work together to address any issues you are experiencing.
My clients are often dealing with symptoms associated with trauma. This may include domestic violence, marital issues, life changes, and other events. They are depressed, anxious, and unsure of where to turn. With the aid of coping skills, knowledge, and self-awareness, these symptoms can be alleviated and allow you to be your most authentic self. Many clients have goals that they wish to achieve and I work with them to accomplish those goals. Through talk therapy and proven techniques, we can work together to address any issues you are experiencing.
(803) 525-1765 View (803) 525-1765
1

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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.