EMDR Therapists in York, SC

Photo of Sharon Hoyng, MS, LPC, PLLC
Sharon Hoyng
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LPC, PLLC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
York, SC 29745
I am trained in: EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for treating PTSD, Trauma and Abuse); EFT ( Emotional Freedom Techniques) and The Quick Pulse ( a technique developed by Jo Dunning to clear unwanted physical / emotional issues,beliefs, past experiences or anything that you want to change in your life).
I enjoy working with children and adults.I have twenty years of experience in the mental health field. I know it's difficult to make that decision to ask for help.My job is to put you at ease, really listen, and help you find a way to move forward, whether that means resolving an issue from the past; changing a behavior or creating a plan for the future. My goal is to improve your quality of life. What's most important is the what happens outside therapy. The best client is ready and willing to make that change.
I am trained in: EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for treating PTSD, Trauma and Abuse); EFT ( Emotional Freedom Techniques) and The Quick Pulse ( a technique developed by Jo Dunning to clear unwanted physical / emotional issues,beliefs, past experiences or anything that you want to change in your life).
I enjoy working with children and adults.I have twenty years of experience in the mental health field. I know it's difficult to make that decision to ask for help.My job is to put you at ease, really listen, and help you find a way to move forward, whether that means resolving an issue from the past; changing a behavior or creating a plan for the future. My goal is to improve your quality of life. What's most important is the what happens outside therapy. The best client is ready and willing to make that change.
(704) 665-0328 View (704) 665-0328
Photo of Dr. Dorothy McCoy, EdD, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Dorothy McCoy
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
York, SC 29745
The 21st Century is fast paced and high tech. Today is very different from just a few years ago. We have been forced to modify our behaviors and expectations to accommodate technology. We are accessible 24/7 thanks to cell phones & blackberries. Though we juggle new demands none of the old stressors have disappeared. We still have jobs, families, friends & all the joys and responsibilities that accompany these relationships. It is easy to understand how our lives & resources can be stretched to the breaking point. Stop. Let's take the road less traveled. Truism # 1: Life can be joyful.
The 21st Century is fast paced and high tech. Today is very different from just a few years ago. We have been forced to modify our behaviors and expectations to accommodate technology. We are accessible 24/7 thanks to cell phones & blackberries. Though we juggle new demands none of the old stressors have disappeared. We still have jobs, families, friends & all the joys and responsibilities that accompany these relationships. It is easy to understand how our lives & resources can be stretched to the breaking point. Stop. Let's take the road less traveled. Truism # 1: Life can be joyful.
(803) 918-5133 View (803) 918-5133
Photo of Dorothy McCoy - Charlotte Counseling and Therapy, EdD, SCLPC, NCLPC, NCC, AAETS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte Counseling and Therapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, SCLPC, NCLPC, NCC, AAETS
Verified Verified
York, SC 29745
Do you wake every morning refreshed and ready to experience an amazing new day? Or, are there problems that hover over your life blocking the light? Therapy is a unique experience that helps you begin each day with hope and joyous anticipation. You and I will work together to resolve the problems that rob your life of joy and healthy energy.Therapy sessions are calming & often fun. Is your workplace stressful? I specialize in changing that stress to success. Change happens every day and we can make it work in your life. Begin your wellness journey-- call today. Concierge Services.
Do you wake every morning refreshed and ready to experience an amazing new day? Or, are there problems that hover over your life blocking the light? Therapy is a unique experience that helps you begin each day with hope and joyous anticipation. You and I will work together to resolve the problems that rob your life of joy and healthy energy.Therapy sessions are calming & often fun. Is your workplace stressful? I specialize in changing that stress to success. Change happens every day and we can make it work in your life. Begin your wellness journey-- call today. Concierge Services.
(919) 648-4309 View (919) 648-4309
Photo of Markley Hawkins, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Markley Hawkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
York, SC 29745
Markley Hawkins is a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2009. She has a Masters in Social Work degree from Winthrop University. Markley values building meaningful therapeutic relationships with kids, teens, and adults that she works with for therapy. She believes that people who feel safe are more able to be vulnerable in ways that are tough but necessary for growth. Markley wants to understand what the world looks like to each client. She uses a bio-psych-social perspective in her assessment and treatment of a client's circumstances.
Markley Hawkins is a Licensed Independent Social Worker-Clinical Practice in South Carolina who has been practicing since 2009. She has a Masters in Social Work degree from Winthrop University. Markley values building meaningful therapeutic relationships with kids, teens, and adults that she works with for therapy. She believes that people who feel safe are more able to be vulnerable in ways that are tough but necessary for growth. Markley wants to understand what the world looks like to each client. She uses a bio-psych-social perspective in her assessment and treatment of a client's circumstances.
(803) 962-7507 View (803) 962-7507
Photo of Ernesta Adams, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ernesta Adams
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
York, SC 29745
Waitlist for new clients
The idea of counseling can be intimidating. The thought of being vulnerable and sharing significant life experiences with a stranger can be downright overwhelming. I get it! My goal at Adams Clinical Services, LLC is to provide a safe, welcoming and nurturing environment for each person. The dynamic between myself and the individuals that I work with is very important because it helps to foster the relationship of trust and support. I will work with you to navigate through traumatic experiences, intrusive, self-defeating thoughts, overwhelming anxiety and the ebb and flow of symptoms created by life stressors.
The idea of counseling can be intimidating. The thought of being vulnerable and sharing significant life experiences with a stranger can be downright overwhelming. I get it! My goal at Adams Clinical Services, LLC is to provide a safe, welcoming and nurturing environment for each person. The dynamic between myself and the individuals that I work with is very important because it helps to foster the relationship of trust and support. I will work with you to navigate through traumatic experiences, intrusive, self-defeating thoughts, overwhelming anxiety and the ebb and flow of symptoms created by life stressors.
(803) 879-5418 View (803) 879-5418
Photo of Cynthia Vasilas - Rock of Refuge Counseling Center, Counselor
Rock of Refuge Counseling Center
Counselor
Verified Verified
York, SC 29745
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
ROCK of REFUGE began as a way to bring the message of Hope and Restoration to those seeking answers in the day to day storms and challenges that life throws us. As a professional counseling and training center, we are committed to serving our communities in North and South Carolina, through the provision of psychological, spiritual, educational and training opportunities.
(980) 246-4177 View (980) 246-4177

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Veronica Del Pino - Veronica Del Pino Psychotherapy LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Del Pino Psychotherapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rock Hill, SC 29732  (Online Only)
EMDR therapy, journal writing and yoga is what I utilize to help moms.
The pressure to be more joyful and present is your goal as a mother who loves her children. You are a mother that doubts herself and the guilt creeps in quickly. However, being a survivor of sexual abuse always leaves you weary of where you drop off your children. School no longer feels safe. You may have a dysfunctional family that is estranged you struggle with isolation. Your anxiety is keeping you up late at night or waking you up in the middle of the night. You want to start healing from your past childhood wounds that are creeping into the present. You want to be thriving rather than just surviving.
EMDR therapy, journal writing and yoga is what I utilize to help moms.
The pressure to be more joyful and present is your goal as a mother who loves her children. You are a mother that doubts herself and the guilt creeps in quickly. However, being a survivor of sexual abuse always leaves you weary of where you drop off your children. School no longer feels safe. You may have a dysfunctional family that is estranged you struggle with isolation. Your anxiety is keeping you up late at night or waking you up in the middle of the night. You want to start healing from your past childhood wounds that are creeping into the present. You want to be thriving rather than just surviving.
(803) 991-6682 View (803) 991-6682
Integrative Counseling Services, Inc.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CEAP
Verified Verified
Clover, SC 29710
He is trained in the areas of Employee's Assistance Programs(EAP), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing( EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy(DBT) and Collaborative Law Process.
Depression/anxiety, addiction/substance abuse, conflict in interpersonal relationships (including Collaborative Law Process), athletics/sports & other mental-health related issues are often signs of the destructive and dysfunctional ways individuals/families cope with life's stressors and anxieties. The goal is to devise a customized treatment plan that will weaken or eliminate the patterns, cycles, and habits that keep the individual/family from living a more successful, productive, and emotionally fulfilling life. Dr. Kevin Wickes has written numerous articles for professional journals, and has presented at national conferences.
He is trained in the areas of Employee's Assistance Programs(EAP), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing( EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy(DBT) and Collaborative Law Process.
Depression/anxiety, addiction/substance abuse, conflict in interpersonal relationships (including Collaborative Law Process), athletics/sports & other mental-health related issues are often signs of the destructive and dysfunctional ways individuals/families cope with life's stressors and anxieties. The goal is to devise a customized treatment plan that will weaken or eliminate the patterns, cycles, and habits that keep the individual/family from living a more successful, productive, and emotionally fulfilling life. Dr. Kevin Wickes has written numerous articles for professional journals, and has presented at national conferences.
(843) 889-7539 View (843) 889-7539
Photo of Claire Jones, MS, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claire Jones
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Wylie, SC 29710
I use a wide range of evidence-based modalities, including traditional "talk therapy," and neuro-based approaches such as EMDR.
Many people find themselves "coping" with life as opposed to LIVING it. With the many competing demands of our busy lifestyles, it is not uncommon to lose connection with your authentic self and to feel discouraged, unwell or just..."off". When we discover that our health and wellbeing are suffering, or feel “stuck”, we often need support to change thought patterns, and empower ourselves to make different choices, so that we can live in a more meaningful and fulfilling capacity. Whether you have specific goals, or simply know that you just want to feel better but don't know where to begin, the first step is to reach out for help.
I use a wide range of evidence-based modalities, including traditional "talk therapy," and neuro-based approaches such as EMDR.
Many people find themselves "coping" with life as opposed to LIVING it. With the many competing demands of our busy lifestyles, it is not uncommon to lose connection with your authentic self and to feel discouraged, unwell or just..."off". When we discover that our health and wellbeing are suffering, or feel “stuck”, we often need support to change thought patterns, and empower ourselves to make different choices, so that we can live in a more meaningful and fulfilling capacity. Whether you have specific goals, or simply know that you just want to feel better but don't know where to begin, the first step is to reach out for help.
(704) 228-2129 View (704) 228-2129
Photo of Amy C.l. Kulbok, MACC, LPC, LPC-S, NCC, , Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy C.l. Kulbok
Licensed Professional Counselor, MACC, LPC, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rock Hill, SC 29732
I am a trained trauma intervention, EMDR, and telehealth provider.
The basis of my practice is rooted in the promise of hope. I believe that we are all capable of moving toward healthier versions of ourselves that can result in more functional emotional responses, deeper, more satisfying relationships, and redeemed living. My goal is to be a helper that provides a safe place to begin to move toward positive change. I partner well with individuals and couples who are tired of dealing with dysfunction and are motivated to work toward being a better version of themselves.
I am a trained trauma intervention, EMDR, and telehealth provider.
The basis of my practice is rooted in the promise of hope. I believe that we are all capable of moving toward healthier versions of ourselves that can result in more functional emotional responses, deeper, more satisfying relationships, and redeemed living. My goal is to be a helper that provides a safe place to begin to move toward positive change. I partner well with individuals and couples who are tired of dealing with dysfunction and are motivated to work toward being a better version of themselves.
(803) 630-3695 View (803) 630-3695
Photo of Kathleen Farrell Perrini, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathleen Farrell Perrini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
McConnells, SC 29726  (Online Only)
Kathleen’s treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Alpha-Stim, the Gottman Method, Mindfulness, Psychotherapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy.
Kathleen has served as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 25 years. She works with clients from the age of 18 through the wisdom years, including individuals and couples.
Kathleen’s treatment modalities include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Alpha-Stim, the Gottman Method, Mindfulness, Psychotherapy, Gestalt Therapy, and Client-Centered Therapy.
Kathleen has served as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 25 years. She works with clients from the age of 18 through the wisdom years, including individuals and couples.
(803) 590-0970 View (803) 590-0970
Photo of Rich Schlauch - Palmetto Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC, MSW, LISW-CP, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Palmetto Counseling & Consulting Services, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-CP, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rock Hill, SC 29732
Palmetto Counseling is an established outpatient behavioral healthcare clinic with two locations — Rock Hill, SC, and Fort Mill, SC, both less than 30 miles from downtown Charlotte, NC. Opening in 2008, we are one of the largest mental health practices committed to offering the highest quality, accessible care, catered to all individuals across our widespread community. To schedule appointment Call 803-329-9639. tion.
Palmetto Counseling is an established outpatient behavioral healthcare clinic with two locations — Rock Hill, SC, and Fort Mill, SC, both less than 30 miles from downtown Charlotte, NC. Opening in 2008, we are one of the largest mental health practices committed to offering the highest quality, accessible care, catered to all individuals across our widespread community. To schedule appointment Call 803-329-9639. tion.
(803) 666-8150 View (803) 666-8150
Photo of Anna Dresdow - Dresdow Counseling Services, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dresdow Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Clover, SC 29710  (Online Only)
I provide a safe place and support to help manage changes and challenges that life throws at us. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina who works with individuals 13 years old and up. I specialize in anxiety, but work with a variety of concerns and offer therapy that is directed towards completing your goals. I provide telehealth online counseling for the convenience of my clients.
I provide a safe place and support to help manage changes and challenges that life throws at us. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor in South Carolina and Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina who works with individuals 13 years old and up. I specialize in anxiety, but work with a variety of concerns and offer therapy that is directed towards completing your goals. I provide telehealth online counseling for the convenience of my clients.
(803) 866-7699 View (803) 866-7699
Photo of Kim Engel-Hughes, MA, NCC, LPC, LCMHC, LPCS-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Engel-Hughes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LCMHC, LPCS-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rock Hill, SC 29732
Waitlist for new clients
Are you struggling to cope with stress or a major life transition? Have you experienced trauma, loss, or grief? Are you searching for more meaningful work or relationships? While it’s common to have obstacles and challenges, you don’t have to figure it out all on your own.
Are you struggling to cope with stress or a major life transition? Have you experienced trauma, loss, or grief? Are you searching for more meaningful work or relationships? While it’s common to have obstacles and challenges, you don’t have to figure it out all on your own.
(803) 373-1816 View (803) 373-1816
Photo of Dania Alshafei, MA, LCMHC
Dania Alshafei
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Wylie, SC 29710  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Looking for a counselor can be a stressful experience, so let me start by saying congratulations on taking the first step. I believe life is a series of transitions & adaptations to our environment, & sometimes we find it difficult to deal with those changes. I enjoy my work as a therapist and strive to help my clients reach their highest potential & to live a life that they value, free of the symptoms that come along with things like anxiety & depression. I aspire to create an environment that will allow my clients to gain greater clarity, acceptance, courage, hope, balance, & serenity.
Looking for a counselor can be a stressful experience, so let me start by saying congratulations on taking the first step. I believe life is a series of transitions & adaptations to our environment, & sometimes we find it difficult to deal with those changes. I enjoy my work as a therapist and strive to help my clients reach their highest potential & to live a life that they value, free of the symptoms that come along with things like anxiety & depression. I aspire to create an environment that will allow my clients to gain greater clarity, acceptance, courage, hope, balance, & serenity.
(704) 842-9152 View (704) 842-9152
Photo of Laura Jagiello - Simpson, LPC, MEd, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laura Jagiello - Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rock Hill, SC 29732
Have you ever felt alone in a crowded room? Do you have friends and family who mean well, but don’t know how to support you? You never have to feel like a burden. Sharing your problems with a non-judgmental, empathetic person can feel freeing. Many people struggle with finding their path in life and sometimes feel lost and alone. Seeking guidance is not always easy. You do not have to struggle alone. I’m here to help you reach your full potential and to help you find the path toward total fulfillment.
Have you ever felt alone in a crowded room? Do you have friends and family who mean well, but don’t know how to support you? You never have to feel like a burden. Sharing your problems with a non-judgmental, empathetic person can feel freeing. Many people struggle with finding their path in life and sometimes feel lost and alone. Seeking guidance is not always easy. You do not have to struggle alone. I’m here to help you reach your full potential and to help you find the path toward total fulfillment.
(803) 590-3692 View (803) 590-3692
Photo of Amber Tolbert - The Healing Collective, MPH, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Healing Collective
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MPH, MSW, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Rock Hill, SC 29732  (Online Only)
Our mission is to walk alongside as you reclaim your power, heal the origin of your pain, and step out of those repetitive cycles that are no longer serving you. Healing is about rediscovering your true essence, embracing your beauty, and guiding you back to your truest and highest self. It's time to transform the pain into power, and paint your life with the vibrant hues of who YOU are. At The Healing Collective, we are women in recovery supporting highly successful and driven people struggling to find joy drowning in the demands of life. At The Healing Collective, we work with the whole person to heal and feel.
Our mission is to walk alongside as you reclaim your power, heal the origin of your pain, and step out of those repetitive cycles that are no longer serving you. Healing is about rediscovering your true essence, embracing your beauty, and guiding you back to your truest and highest self. It's time to transform the pain into power, and paint your life with the vibrant hues of who YOU are. At The Healing Collective, we are women in recovery supporting highly successful and driven people struggling to find joy drowning in the demands of life. At The Healing Collective, we work with the whole person to heal and feel.
(864) 396-5347 View (864) 396-5347
Photo of Kim Antoinette Gray, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Kim Antoinette Gray
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Wylie, SC 29710  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist, I enjoy working with individuals, ages 3 and up, couples and families. I have a master's degree in Conflict Studies and Dispute Resolution and am also a trained mediator, which aids in my passion for helping others reach their goals. Are you struggling to set and consistently meet your goals? Are you re-entering society, from the military or prison? Do you have periods of anxiety or sadness? Are you frustrated with your mate, family or other relationships? Let's chat about your specific needs and see how we can work together.
As a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Therapist, I enjoy working with individuals, ages 3 and up, couples and families. I have a master's degree in Conflict Studies and Dispute Resolution and am also a trained mediator, which aids in my passion for helping others reach their goals. Are you struggling to set and consistently meet your goals? Are you re-entering society, from the military or prison? Do you have periods of anxiety or sadness? Are you frustrated with your mate, family or other relationships? Let's chat about your specific needs and see how we can work together.
(704) 610-7236 View (704) 610-7236
Photo of Wendy L. Johnston, MA, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Wendy L. Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lake Wylie, SC 29710
Not accepting new clients
By using the tools of EMDR, hypnosis, mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & solution-focused techniques, my clients often see improvement in just a few sessions.
Are you struggling with anxiety and stress, depression, or past trauma or abuse? Do you need support to move forward and reclaim your life? If so, you're not alone. Because I've fought through my own issues in therapy, I understand that it takes courage to ask for help. As your therapist, it's my pledge to be non-judgmental, present, and authentic as I join with you, support you, and provide effective tools and strategies for change.
By using the tools of EMDR, hypnosis, mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) & solution-focused techniques, my clients often see improvement in just a few sessions.
Are you struggling with anxiety and stress, depression, or past trauma or abuse? Do you need support to move forward and reclaim your life? If so, you're not alone. Because I've fought through my own issues in therapy, I understand that it takes courage to ask for help. As your therapist, it's my pledge to be non-judgmental, present, and authentic as I join with you, support you, and provide effective tools and strategies for change.
(980) 276-2417 View (980) 276-2417

Online Therapists

Photo of Dr. Denise K Crockett, PhD, CTTS, LPC, CCTP I, CCTP II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Denise K Crockett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, CTTS, LPC, CCTP I, CCTP II
Verified Verified
Taylors, SC 29687
Are you sick of being tired & stuck? Dr. Crockett specializes in assessing Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), and PTSD. She works with clients that have been victims of assault and battery, gaslighting, abandonment issues from childhood, sexual abuse, human trafficking, accidents that cause TBI and PTSD, etc. Dr. Crockett also has been certified from SEAK as an expert witness and is certified to use EMDR. Dr. Crockett's passion is helping people with critical and sensitive issues by assessing their current symptoms providing them with a treatment plan that can help facilitate the beginning steps to their recovery.
Are you sick of being tired & stuck? Dr. Crockett specializes in assessing Complex Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), and PTSD. She works with clients that have been victims of assault and battery, gaslighting, abandonment issues from childhood, sexual abuse, human trafficking, accidents that cause TBI and PTSD, etc. Dr. Crockett also has been certified from SEAK as an expert witness and is certified to use EMDR. Dr. Crockett's passion is helping people with critical and sensitive issues by assessing their current symptoms providing them with a treatment plan that can help facilitate the beginning steps to their recovery.
(864) 501-5938 View (864) 501-5938

See more therapy options for York

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.