EMDR Therapists in Alcoa, TN

Photo of Kendra Hart, MHSP, LADAC 2, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kendra Hart
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP, LADAC 2
Verified Verified
Alcoa, TN 37701
I am also licensed in substance use counseling and use EMDR, CBT, DBT and Solution Focused Therapy.
Life has brought you here and I believe it is for a reason. Are you ready to start your journey towards healing? I think you are! You have been suffering long enough. Whether you have been tormented by your anxiety, oppressed by your depression, lost in your addiction or felt unsafe from your trauma, I am here to help. Is anger or other uncomfortable emotions controlling your life? Maybe it's the deep pain from the sadness of losing someone you love? Do you want help to stop those racing thoughts? Or maybe you just feel stuck and unmotivated? You are certainly not alone and there are ways to help overcome your struggles.
I am also licensed in substance use counseling and use EMDR, CBT, DBT and Solution Focused Therapy.
Life has brought you here and I believe it is for a reason. Are you ready to start your journey towards healing? I think you are! You have been suffering long enough. Whether you have been tormented by your anxiety, oppressed by your depression, lost in your addiction or felt unsafe from your trauma, I am here to help. Is anger or other uncomfortable emotions controlling your life? Maybe it's the deep pain from the sadness of losing someone you love? Do you want help to stop those racing thoughts? Or maybe you just feel stuck and unmotivated? You are certainly not alone and there are ways to help overcome your struggles.
(865) 217-2508 View (865) 217-2508
Photo of Meghan Rasnake, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Rasnake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alcoa, TN 37701
First of all, there is nothing wrong with you, okay? You are inherently whole and worthy just as you are. You are so much more than what has happened to you or what you are struggling with right now. Even if it feels like that’s all you can think about, there are time-tested tools we can use to get you or your child back to living the life you want to live. I am passionate about ending the cycle of generational anxiety and trauma by guiding parents through the landmines of their past and supporting children and families to become more connected and more present with each other. I would love to work with you if…
First of all, there is nothing wrong with you, okay? You are inherently whole and worthy just as you are. You are so much more than what has happened to you or what you are struggling with right now. Even if it feels like that’s all you can think about, there are time-tested tools we can use to get you or your child back to living the life you want to live. I am passionate about ending the cycle of generational anxiety and trauma by guiding parents through the landmines of their past and supporting children and families to become more connected and more present with each other. I would love to work with you if…
(865) 344-1065 View (865) 344-1065
Photo of Shannon McBride, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Alcoa, TN 37701  (Online Only)
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
(865) 324-0783 View (865) 324-0783
Photo of Emma Poole, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emma Poole
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alcoa, TN 37701
Not accepting new clients
I am not currently accepting new clients until August 2024. Hi there! I specialize in working with adults who have had difficult relationship experiences throughout their lives. Maybe you had a difficult childhood. Maybe you struggle with your current romantic relationship. Maybe you have a difficult time trusting yourself or others. Maybe your relationship is struggling to survive the impact of old wounds. Maybe you do not know how to find relief from the pain of the past.
I am not currently accepting new clients until August 2024. Hi there! I specialize in working with adults who have had difficult relationship experiences throughout their lives. Maybe you had a difficult childhood. Maybe you struggle with your current romantic relationship. Maybe you have a difficult time trusting yourself or others. Maybe your relationship is struggling to survive the impact of old wounds. Maybe you do not know how to find relief from the pain of the past.
(865) 238-4043 View (865) 238-4043

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Sabrina Peterson, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sabrina Peterson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37803
I am fully trained and experienced in both EMDR and TFCBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
Welcome to my practice! You inspire me! It takes a great deal of courage to reach out and ask for help and I admire that! Sometimes our expected life path shifts and it can feel extremely overwhelming to find our footing and get back on track to living the life we deserve. My blended therapeutic approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness can help you do just that. I strongly believe that in order to make meaningful changes in our lives, we have to get to the core beliefs (both about the self and about the world we live in) that are driving our behaviors.
I am fully trained and experienced in both EMDR and TFCBT (Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy).
Welcome to my practice! You inspire me! It takes a great deal of courage to reach out and ask for help and I admire that! Sometimes our expected life path shifts and it can feel extremely overwhelming to find our footing and get back on track to living the life we deserve. My blended therapeutic approach of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness can help you do just that. I strongly believe that in order to make meaningful changes in our lives, we have to get to the core beliefs (both about the self and about the world we live in) that are driving our behaviors.
(865) 737-2887 View (865) 737-2887
Photo of Jocelyn Ivy, LPC-S, MHSP, C-PD, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jocelyn Ivy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, MHSP, C-PD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
Waitlist for new clients
I have extensive trauma-informed care training including EMDR, Brainspotting, and TF-CBT.
I have always been interested in understanding the world from other people's points of view. I view my job as a therapist is to understand your story and how your worldview informs the way you react to life stressors. My goal is to help you utilize your own strengths and insight to feel calm, centered, and content in a world that often isn't. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and the LGBTQ/alternative lifestyle community.
I have extensive trauma-informed care training including EMDR, Brainspotting, and TF-CBT.
I have always been interested in understanding the world from other people's points of view. I view my job as a therapist is to understand your story and how your worldview informs the way you react to life stressors. My goal is to help you utilize your own strengths and insight to feel calm, centered, and content in a world that often isn't. I enjoy working with adults of all ages and the LGBTQ/alternative lifestyle community.
(865) 344-2326 View (865) 344-2326
Photo of Jo Clark, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jo Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in TFCBT and EMDR.
I have worked for the past 19 years with adults, adolescents and children, addressing a variety of issues to include behavioral concerns, a variety of mental health diagnoses, trauma, addiction, self-harm, depression, anxiety, family issues, and more. I have also worked with adults in a variety of settings to address marriage and family concerns as well as addiction, trauma, and parenting skills.
I am trained in TFCBT and EMDR.
I have worked for the past 19 years with adults, adolescents and children, addressing a variety of issues to include behavioral concerns, a variety of mental health diagnoses, trauma, addiction, self-harm, depression, anxiety, family issues, and more. I have also worked with adults in a variety of settings to address marriage and family concerns as well as addiction, trauma, and parenting skills.
(865) 290-2026 View (865) 290-2026
Photo of Michelle Portman Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Portman Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
Waitlist for new clients
I offer therapy utilizing Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) ; Eye Movement Desentization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Mindfulness.
My clients often are experiencing a life that feels without meaning and control. A life that is filled with chronic stress. This stress results from conflict in our relationships and multiple roles in life. At other times,this stress is residue from unresolved life events that have depleted the ability to see through a lens of love. Life then naturally becomes driven by fear. If you are seeking to learn a way to create a life that feels worth living, despite any circumstance. I can teach you the way. The majority of my clients are experiencing anxiety, anger and depression in their daily life.
I offer therapy utilizing Dialectal Behavior Therapy (DBT) ; Eye Movement Desentization Reprocessing (EMDR) and Mindfulness.
My clients often are experiencing a life that feels without meaning and control. A life that is filled with chronic stress. This stress results from conflict in our relationships and multiple roles in life. At other times,this stress is residue from unresolved life events that have depleted the ability to see through a lens of love. Life then naturally becomes driven by fear. If you are seeking to learn a way to create a life that feels worth living, despite any circumstance. I can teach you the way. The majority of my clients are experiencing anxiety, anger and depression in their daily life.
(865) 269-6125 View (865) 269-6125
Photo of Jordan Haynes, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jordan Haynes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Parent Child Interaction Training (PCIT) & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Welcome! For the past seven years, my passion has been to help facilitate personal growth in young children, adolescents, and teens. My primary focus is to be someone you can turn to in a time of need. The stress of growing up in today's ever-changing society can be overwhelming. I would like to join you on your journey to develop the skills necessary to overcome those stressors by teaching you the skills needed. I like to practice from an unconditional, supportive therapist role, in a relaxing environment. I am dedicated to using all my resources to help achieve peace & happiness in your lives!
I am trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Parent Child Interaction Training (PCIT) & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Welcome! For the past seven years, my passion has been to help facilitate personal growth in young children, adolescents, and teens. My primary focus is to be someone you can turn to in a time of need. The stress of growing up in today's ever-changing society can be overwhelming. I would like to join you on your journey to develop the skills necessary to overcome those stressors by teaching you the skills needed. I like to practice from an unconditional, supportive therapist role, in a relaxing environment. I am dedicated to using all my resources to help achieve peace & happiness in your lives!
(865) 205-6277 View (865) 205-6277
Photo of Carol Omos Crawley, MA, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carol Omos Crawley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I draw on a variety of modalities including EMDR, DBT, Schema Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, The Gottman Method, Integrative Christian Counseling and mindfulness practices to create a customized treatment plan that is both effective and empowering.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
I draw on a variety of modalities including EMDR, DBT, Schema Therapy, Trauma-Informed Therapy, Attachment Theory, The Gottman Method, Integrative Christian Counseling and mindfulness practices to create a customized treatment plan that is both effective and empowering.
My focus is working with survivors of narcissistic abuse, first responders, and couples looking to recover from infidelity. I see individuals as well as couples and if appropriate, will alternate seeing a couple together and then separately for individual sessions. I use an integrative approach that combines evidence-based practices with a personalized, holistic perspective. Whether you are struggling with infidelity, trauma, anxiety, depression, or other challenges, I am here to provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space where you can explore your experiences and develop the skills and tools you need to achieve your goals.
(865) 509-9254 View (865) 509-9254
Photo of Megan MacNamara, PhD, Psychologist
Megan MacNamara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
I use EMDR therapy to release limiting mindsets so you can manifest results quickly.
I help empower women to love themselves. You may be a struggling mom, creative, business owner, empath, or trauma survivor that is ready to get past survive and start to thrive. My speciality is trauma recovery. My experience as an EMDR therapist & DBT psychologist helps you to deal with anxiety and depression. My clients say they feel immediate relief, a deep connection, & I open up worlds they never thought was possible. New virtual women's empowerment group and mindset membership!
I use EMDR therapy to release limiting mindsets so you can manifest results quickly.
I help empower women to love themselves. You may be a struggling mom, creative, business owner, empath, or trauma survivor that is ready to get past survive and start to thrive. My speciality is trauma recovery. My experience as an EMDR therapist & DBT psychologist helps you to deal with anxiety and depression. My clients say they feel immediate relief, a deep connection, & I open up worlds they never thought was possible. New virtual women's empowerment group and mindset membership!
(865) 383-1322 View (865) 383-1322
Photo of Mekenzie Russell, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mekenzie Russell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
I am EMDR trained and offer these services to my clients.
As a therapist, I believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are in their healing journey. Ultimately, I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing grief or other life transitions that are having trouble navigating new terrain. I also work with those who may be experiencing anxiety and depression and need assistance in creating coping skills. Additionally, I love to help men and women explore their own attachment style and work through early trauma.
I am EMDR trained and offer these services to my clients.
As a therapist, I believe in meeting my clients exactly where they are in their healing journey. Ultimately, I enjoy working with individuals who are experiencing grief or other life transitions that are having trouble navigating new terrain. I also work with those who may be experiencing anxiety and depression and need assistance in creating coping skills. Additionally, I love to help men and women explore their own attachment style and work through early trauma.
(865) 401-6453 View (865) 401-6453
Photo of Shannon Brown, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shannon Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37801
We are a Queer-owned, LGBTQ+, QBIPOC, body positive, kink positive, ENM/Poly safe & affirming practice. Shannon has almost 20 years experience in trauma & LGBTQ+ mental health for all ages, family dynamics, & religious structures, is a Certified Emergency Responder & Public Safety Clinician for Queer LEOs, EMS, 911 Operators, Fire Fighters & Vets. Eden is especially focused on addressing trauma, queer mental health for teens, adults & families, and is kink positive. Laila specializes in working with women, mothers & postpartum issues. Logan is skilled in working with children & teens with behavioral issues & is certified in EMDR.
We are a Queer-owned, LGBTQ+, QBIPOC, body positive, kink positive, ENM/Poly safe & affirming practice. Shannon has almost 20 years experience in trauma & LGBTQ+ mental health for all ages, family dynamics, & religious structures, is a Certified Emergency Responder & Public Safety Clinician for Queer LEOs, EMS, 911 Operators, Fire Fighters & Vets. Eden is especially focused on addressing trauma, queer mental health for teens, adults & families, and is kink positive. Laila specializes in working with women, mothers & postpartum issues. Logan is skilled in working with children & teens with behavioral issues & is certified in EMDR.
(865) 590-8003 View (865) 590-8003
Photo of Stephanie McClanahan, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Stephanie McClanahan
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37802
I am a SYMBIS certified facilitator working with couples, and I am also trained in EMDR.
As a mental health therapist, I enjoy working with individual adults and teenagers, as well couples. I want to help provide space for people to heal and improve their lives, and I work toward this by viewing each client as unique individuals and tailoring counseling to fit their goals and needs. I particularly enjoying working with people who are working to resolve trauma and issues with emotional regulation.
I am a SYMBIS certified facilitator working with couples, and I am also trained in EMDR.
As a mental health therapist, I enjoy working with individual adults and teenagers, as well couples. I want to help provide space for people to heal and improve their lives, and I work toward this by viewing each client as unique individuals and tailoring counseling to fit their goals and needs. I particularly enjoying working with people who are working to resolve trauma and issues with emotional regulation.
(865) 432-6963 View (865) 432-6963
Photo of John Chandler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Chandler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Maryville, TN 37801
I have certificates in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure (PE).
“If you do what you have always done, you will get what you always got.” Are you tired of being stuck in the same old cycles? Whether the problem is self-sabotaging behavior, feelings of worthlessness, constant family squabbling, or the like, let me help you break free from the madness and put you on a path to mental and emotional wellness. I will come along side you with encouraging insight, practical wisdom and competent care to jumpstart your journey to become your very best self.
I have certificates in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) and Prolonged Exposure (PE).
“If you do what you have always done, you will get what you always got.” Are you tired of being stuck in the same old cycles? Whether the problem is self-sabotaging behavior, feelings of worthlessness, constant family squabbling, or the like, let me help you break free from the madness and put you on a path to mental and emotional wellness. I will come along side you with encouraging insight, practical wisdom and competent care to jumpstart your journey to become your very best self.
(865) 432-1015 View (865) 432-1015
Photo of Joel Bain, MEd, LMFT, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joel Bain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
When helping clients process past traumatic experiences, I utilize a trauma focused psychotherapy approach that may include EMDR, DBT, and elements from CPT.
Many individuals are confronted at certain times in their life with a set of challenges and difficulties that seem insurmountable or overwhelming. Others are seeking guidance or insight in how to rediscover a sense of direction or purpose in their lives. Seeking out help is an act of courage and self-validation. Stop putting it off.
When helping clients process past traumatic experiences, I utilize a trauma focused psychotherapy approach that may include EMDR, DBT, and elements from CPT.
Many individuals are confronted at certain times in their life with a set of challenges and difficulties that seem insurmountable or overwhelming. Others are seeking guidance or insight in how to rediscover a sense of direction or purpose in their lives. Seeking out help is an act of courage and self-validation. Stop putting it off.
(865) 205-6067 View (865) 205-6067
Photo of Amanda Whichard, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Whichard
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Maryville, TN 37804
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help those who feel stuck and haven’t seen progress with other talk therapy methods.
You may find you're walking through a difficult season of life. But whether you feel sad, stuck, anxious, lost, afraid or just tired of trying to figure things out on your own; I really love the process of walking with people through difficult transitions or as they are stepping into new changes in their lives. I am passionate in working with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, are who are in the middle of life transitions (such as grief, loss of pet/dream/job, moving), and/or are working through their mental health wellbeing in the context of work and career.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to help those who feel stuck and haven’t seen progress with other talk therapy methods.
You may find you're walking through a difficult season of life. But whether you feel sad, stuck, anxious, lost, afraid or just tired of trying to figure things out on your own; I really love the process of walking with people through difficult transitions or as they are stepping into new changes in their lives. I am passionate in working with those who suffer from anxiety, depression, are who are in the middle of life transitions (such as grief, loss of pet/dream/job, moving), and/or are working through their mental health wellbeing in the context of work and career.
(865) 217-7716 View (865) 217-7716
Photo of Katherine Myers, LCSW, LICSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Katherine Myers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and certified in equine-assisted psychotherapy.
Maybe you have waited a long time to seek help and suffered in silence. Perhaps you've become accustomed to this discomfort or a pain. Or maybe you desire change through seeking understanding and want a greater sense of wellbeing. Therapy may help you with this process of personal growth and healing. Whether you have a crisis, traumatic experience, significant life challenge or are wanting to experience greater fulfillment therapy may be for you.
I am trained in EMDR and certified in equine-assisted psychotherapy.
Maybe you have waited a long time to seek help and suffered in silence. Perhaps you've become accustomed to this discomfort or a pain. Or maybe you desire change through seeking understanding and want a greater sense of wellbeing. Therapy may help you with this process of personal growth and healing. Whether you have a crisis, traumatic experience, significant life challenge or are wanting to experience greater fulfillment therapy may be for you.
(336) 203-0760 View (336) 203-0760
Photo of Dr. Chandra Feltman, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Chandra Feltman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
My approach is person-centered and rooted in attachment theory, while also utilizing techniques from EMDR and DBT.
Being human is hard. It’s messy. And it can feel totally overwhelming at times. However, when we learn to give voice to these inner experiences, they start to become more manageable. We begin to realize the feelings and symptoms we experience aren’t random, they’re telling us something. As your therapist, I can help you learn how to better connect with, understand, and express painful emotions, while also providing tools to help you cope. Through it all, I will offer you compassion, warmth, empathy - maybe even a well timed curse word if necessary. I’ll bring my whole authentic self to the therapy room and invite you to do the same.
My approach is person-centered and rooted in attachment theory, while also utilizing techniques from EMDR and DBT.
Being human is hard. It’s messy. And it can feel totally overwhelming at times. However, when we learn to give voice to these inner experiences, they start to become more manageable. We begin to realize the feelings and symptoms we experience aren’t random, they’re telling us something. As your therapist, I can help you learn how to better connect with, understand, and express painful emotions, while also providing tools to help you cope. Through it all, I will offer you compassion, warmth, empathy - maybe even a well timed curse word if necessary. I’ll bring my whole authentic self to the therapy room and invite you to do the same.
(865) 412-4138 View (865) 412-4138
Photo of Laura Catherine Eddlemon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Catherine Eddlemon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR, PET, ICBT & EXRP.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field I strive to provide informed and evidence based treatment to clients of diverse backgrounds in a safe, supportive, and accepting environment. Therapy is a unique experience in which we can create the space that we don't often make for ourselves otherwise to stay with and explore our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I recognize that seeking support can be difficult and I truly value the positive feedback my clients have provided regarding their feelings of comfort and safety in their work with me.
EMDR, PET, ICBT & EXRP.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field I strive to provide informed and evidence based treatment to clients of diverse backgrounds in a safe, supportive, and accepting environment. Therapy is a unique experience in which we can create the space that we don't often make for ourselves otherwise to stay with and explore our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I recognize that seeking support can be difficult and I truly value the positive feedback my clients have provided regarding their feelings of comfort and safety in their work with me.
(865) 761-3319 View (865) 761-3319

See more therapy options for Alcoa

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.