EMDR Therapists in Clarksville, TN

Photo of Betsy Abrams, LMSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Betsy Abrams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
I utilize a variety of treatment techniques to include but not limited to, EMDR, Brainspotting, Experiential and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy).
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self esteem, depression or relationship issues? Does life seem overwhelming to you? Emotional pain and stress can affect our lives in many ways, negatively contributing to our emotional, physical and spiritual health. I view each client as a unique person and develop the best therapeutic approach for their needs. My passion is to help individuals identify healthy coping skills and beliefs to deal with everyday life issues or past difficulties that impact their lives today.
I utilize a variety of treatment techniques to include but not limited to, EMDR, Brainspotting, Experiential and EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy).
Are you struggling with anxiety, low self esteem, depression or relationship issues? Does life seem overwhelming to you? Emotional pain and stress can affect our lives in many ways, negatively contributing to our emotional, physical and spiritual health. I view each client as a unique person and develop the best therapeutic approach for their needs. My passion is to help individuals identify healthy coping skills and beliefs to deal with everyday life issues or past difficulties that impact their lives today.
(931) 227-4212 View (931) 227-4212
Photo of Jennifer Lynn Dressler, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Lynn Dressler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
I am an EMDR certified clinician and can use many other modalities, such as CBT, DBT to help my clients work through their past into a place of health.
I enjoy working with people from all walks of life. It is my desire to help people who have difficulty in daily life due to mental health issues and past traumas move to a place of healing and wholeness. I will guide your journey into healing and give you tools to become the person you have always imagined....the person who is not controlled by their past, fear, sadness or worry.
I am an EMDR certified clinician and can use many other modalities, such as CBT, DBT to help my clients work through their past into a place of health.
I enjoy working with people from all walks of life. It is my desire to help people who have difficulty in daily life due to mental health issues and past traumas move to a place of healing and wholeness. I will guide your journey into healing and give you tools to become the person you have always imagined....the person who is not controlled by their past, fear, sadness or worry.
(931) 391-3319 View (931) 391-3319
Photo of Tamara Boone, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamara Boone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37040
I will utilize different modalities to find one that resonates with you to include EMDR and DBT where appropriate.
Giving up on a goal because of a setback is like slashing your other three tires because you have a flat; I live by this quote because it is so simplistic yet speaks volumes. I feel that in life you will always have setbacks, but that is essential to understanding that it is a process but that it is your process that we will work through together in a strong therapeutic relationship.
I will utilize different modalities to find one that resonates with you to include EMDR and DBT where appropriate.
Giving up on a goal because of a setback is like slashing your other three tires because you have a flat; I live by this quote because it is so simplistic yet speaks volumes. I feel that in life you will always have setbacks, but that is essential to understanding that it is a process but that it is your process that we will work through together in a strong therapeutic relationship.
(931) 218-7098 x1 View (931) 218-7098 x1
Photo of Amber Heggie, MA, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Amber Heggie
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
Treatments like EMDR boost the effectiveness of therapy interventions.
Taking the first step toward seeking support can feel daunting, but I'm here to offer you a compassionate and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I'm committed to providing personalized support that meets you where you are. Whether you're facing difficulties related to relationships, trauma, stress, or anything else, I'm here to support you.
Treatments like EMDR boost the effectiveness of therapy interventions.
Taking the first step toward seeking support can feel daunting, but I'm here to offer you a compassionate and non-judgmental space to explore your thoughts, feelings, and concerns. I'm committed to providing personalized support that meets you where you are. Whether you're facing difficulties related to relationships, trauma, stress, or anything else, I'm here to support you.
(931) 295-6234 View (931) 295-6234
Photo of Barbara L. Schmitt, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barbara L. Schmitt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37042  (Online Only)
I have training and experience working with victims of trauma and offer EMDR Therapy.
Emotional pain is hurtful. Sometimes life circumstances overwhelm us and we lose our way and our peace of mind. Therapy can help heal relationships with others but most importantly with ourselves. We need an objective partner who can identify problematic issues and assist with development of coping skills and healing. I've named my practice Tranquility Counseling because I hope to help my clients enter a space of peacefulness, calm, and safety - even amidst chaotic times.
I have training and experience working with victims of trauma and offer EMDR Therapy.
Emotional pain is hurtful. Sometimes life circumstances overwhelm us and we lose our way and our peace of mind. Therapy can help heal relationships with others but most importantly with ourselves. We need an objective partner who can identify problematic issues and assist with development of coping skills and healing. I've named my practice Tranquility Counseling because I hope to help my clients enter a space of peacefulness, calm, and safety - even amidst chaotic times.
(615) 656-7209 View (615) 656-7209
Photo of Muriel Petersheim, MSW, CCTP
Muriel Petersheim
MSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
Waitlist for new clients
In my therapeutic practice, I incorporate elements of Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Gestalt, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in a strengths-based and trauma-informed fashion.
Life can feel overwhelming, and we can sometimes be plagued by painful experiences. While obstacles are ever-constant, feeling overwhelmed by them doesn't have to be. Throughout my years as a social worker, I have gladly supported clients across a variety of issues and backgrounds, though I am especially drawn to working with adolescents, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ folks.
In my therapeutic practice, I incorporate elements of Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Gestalt, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in a strengths-based and trauma-informed fashion.
Life can feel overwhelming, and we can sometimes be plagued by painful experiences. While obstacles are ever-constant, feeling overwhelmed by them doesn't have to be. Throughout my years as a social worker, I have gladly supported clients across a variety of issues and backgrounds, though I am especially drawn to working with adolescents, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ folks.
(931) 345-4164 View (931) 345-4164
Photo of Alison Goad - Mindful Methods Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindful Methods Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Clarksville, TN 37043  (Online Only)
We will build on your existing strengths, and utilize CBT, mindfulness practices, and when appropriate, EMDR to address traumatic memories.
I am Alison Goad, a licensed clinical social worker in Tennessee with over 20 years of clinical practice experience addressing issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, CPTSD, and trauma. My approach is client centered which means we begin therapy where you are. I want to learn all I can about you so we can work together to develop a treatment plan that is perfectly tailored to suit your particular needs. We will work together toward your goals so that your overall achievement through this process will be YOU at your best. I believe I can help you get there.
We will build on your existing strengths, and utilize CBT, mindfulness practices, and when appropriate, EMDR to address traumatic memories.
I am Alison Goad, a licensed clinical social worker in Tennessee with over 20 years of clinical practice experience addressing issues including depression, anxiety, self-esteem, relationships, CPTSD, and trauma. My approach is client centered which means we begin therapy where you are. I want to learn all I can about you so we can work together to develop a treatment plan that is perfectly tailored to suit your particular needs. We will work together toward your goals so that your overall achievement through this process will be YOU at your best. I believe I can help you get there.
(931) 442-0762 View (931) 442-0762
Photo of Lauren Cobb, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Cobb
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
Waitlist for new clients
I also utilize exposure therapy, internal family systems informed EMDR, acceptance and commitment therapy, expressive art techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Are you ready for change? Are you tired of the ways things are going? Let's work together to create a plan, an action plan, of how we can get you to where you want to be. I work with children, teens, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, trauma, parenting, behavioral issues, emotion regulation, grief, life transitions, anger, children in divorce / custody situations, and stress. I am a great fit for someone who is seeking a supportive, engaging, empowering, confidential, goal focused, and healing space.
I also utilize exposure therapy, internal family systems informed EMDR, acceptance and commitment therapy, expressive art techniques, and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Are you ready for change? Are you tired of the ways things are going? Let's work together to create a plan, an action plan, of how we can get you to where you want to be. I work with children, teens, and adults who are dealing with anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, phobias, trauma, parenting, behavioral issues, emotion regulation, grief, life transitions, anger, children in divorce / custody situations, and stress. I am a great fit for someone who is seeking a supportive, engaging, empowering, confidential, goal focused, and healing space.
(931) 546-1049 View (931) 546-1049
Photo of Janelle Urban, MA, LPCMHSP, (Temp), Pre-Licensed Professional
Janelle Urban
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, LPCMHSP, (Temp)
Verified Verified
Clarksville, TN 37040
My primary approach is person-centered focusing on attachment through a trauma-informed lens, identifying ones’ core beliefs, somatics, expressive art therapy, and EMDR.
It is my passion to work alongside individuals on issues related to the pervasive impacts of trauma. This includes childhood sexual abuse, attachment wounds, anxiety, panic, depression, self-esteem concerns, relational discord, infidelity, and grief. I am also drawn to offering support for those effected by the gaps in our systems related to military/families, as well as those struggling with postpartum related issues. My passion for these areas has driven me to help fill in those gaps through the support and psycho education that lacks in these important populations.
My primary approach is person-centered focusing on attachment through a trauma-informed lens, identifying ones’ core beliefs, somatics, expressive art therapy, and EMDR.
It is my passion to work alongside individuals on issues related to the pervasive impacts of trauma. This includes childhood sexual abuse, attachment wounds, anxiety, panic, depression, self-esteem concerns, relational discord, infidelity, and grief. I am also drawn to offering support for those effected by the gaps in our systems related to military/families, as well as those struggling with postpartum related issues. My passion for these areas has driven me to help fill in those gaps through the support and psycho education that lacks in these important populations.
(931) 329-4346 View (931) 329-4346
Photo of Bobbie M. Davis, PhD, LCSW, RPT-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bobbie M. Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Clarksville, TN 37043
I am trained in psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy models, and a variety of child Play therapy techniques to include Sand Tray therapy.
I am practicing as an Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychoanalyst Candidate under the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute. Since 2003 my work experience includes a diverse range of trauma; military, sexual, childhood, domestic violence, as well as a variety of mental health and behavioral challenges. I have served in nursing homes, school systems, psychiatric hospital, Department of Defense in Child Adolescent Psychiatry Services, Adult Behavioral Health, and the Family Advocacy Program. I enjoy working with children, families, soldiers, and individuals to help them to reach their goals by overcoming the challenges that we all face.
I am trained in psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy models, and a variety of child Play therapy techniques to include Sand Tray therapy.
I am practicing as an Adult and Child/Adolescent Psychoanalyst Candidate under the Chicago Psychoanalytic Institute. Since 2003 my work experience includes a diverse range of trauma; military, sexual, childhood, domestic violence, as well as a variety of mental health and behavioral challenges. I have served in nursing homes, school systems, psychiatric hospital, Department of Defense in Child Adolescent Psychiatry Services, Adult Behavioral Health, and the Family Advocacy Program. I enjoy working with children, families, soldiers, and individuals to help them to reach their goals by overcoming the challenges that we all face.
(931) 771-8249 View (931) 771-8249
Photo of Emily Shelton, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emily Shelton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37042  (Online Only)
I use a variety of therapeutic methods for my clients including EMDR, CBT, and other trauma informed modalities.
If you're ready for healing and growth, I'm ready to help. I'm Emily Shelton, a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and substance use disorders. My mission is to create a warm and welcoming environment where you can embark on a journey toward self-discovery and well-being. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with the challenges of anxiety or depression, the pain of grief, and the struggles related to substance use.
I use a variety of therapeutic methods for my clients including EMDR, CBT, and other trauma informed modalities.
If you're ready for healing and growth, I'm ready to help. I'm Emily Shelton, a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) with a passion for helping individuals navigate the complexities of anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, and substance use disorders. My mission is to create a warm and welcoming environment where you can embark on a journey toward self-discovery and well-being. I specialize in supporting individuals dealing with the challenges of anxiety or depression, the pain of grief, and the struggles related to substance use.
(931) 288-5420 View (931) 288-5420
Photo of Laura Meadow, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laura Meadow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
Hi My name is Laura Meadow. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. I am EMDR trained. I also use a lot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. Within the past 10 years my focus has been primarily on working with adult women ages 18 and up.
Hi My name is Laura Meadow. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I have over 15 years of experience in the field of mental health. I am EMDR trained. I also use a lot of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy techniques. Within the past 10 years my focus has been primarily on working with adult women ages 18 and up.
(931) 345-4598 View (931) 345-4598
Photo of Michelle Barnhart, LPC, MHSP, ACS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michelle Barnhart
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, ACS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
My specialization of practice includes trauma, and varied mental health issues. I seek to provide a safe, comfortable space for counseling where clients feel supported, heard and can be open to learn about themselves and embrace the journey of change. To better serve those I work with, I have begun to incorporate EMDR and Sand tray to address many issues in the therapeutic setting. I also have experience with use of CBT, TFCBT, DBT and will use the modality that best suits the need of the person I am working with. I tend to be solution focused in my approach but choose the best approach for each individual client.
My specialization of practice includes trauma, and varied mental health issues. I seek to provide a safe, comfortable space for counseling where clients feel supported, heard and can be open to learn about themselves and embrace the journey of change. To better serve those I work with, I have begun to incorporate EMDR and Sand tray to address many issues in the therapeutic setting. I also have experience with use of CBT, TFCBT, DBT and will use the modality that best suits the need of the person I am working with. I tend to be solution focused in my approach but choose the best approach for each individual client.
(931) 295-0958 View (931) 295-0958
Photo of Shelly Louise Steel - Shelly Steel, LMFT, MMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shelly Steel
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37040
My focus includes depression, anxiety and grief for which I use Brainspotting, EMDR and CBT interventions.
I am a Certified Grief Educator , trained by David Kessler. I was honored to be contracted by the TV show "THE DOCTORS" to work with one of their case studies. I have completed Levels 1-3 of Gottman Training for couples. I practice eclectic therapy styles to meet clients within their comfort zone. My trauma therapy techniques include EMDR and Brainspotting. I have been in practice since 2009. I love what I do so I am a big believer in continuous trainings that will make me the best that I can be.
My focus includes depression, anxiety and grief for which I use Brainspotting, EMDR and CBT interventions.
I am a Certified Grief Educator , trained by David Kessler. I was honored to be contracted by the TV show "THE DOCTORS" to work with one of their case studies. I have completed Levels 1-3 of Gottman Training for couples. I practice eclectic therapy styles to meet clients within their comfort zone. My trauma therapy techniques include EMDR and Brainspotting. I have been in practice since 2009. I love what I do so I am a big believer in continuous trainings that will make me the best that I can be.
(615) 538-5449 View (615) 538-5449
Photo of Kevin Cuchia, LCSW, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kevin Cuchia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
As a certified EMDR and complex trauma therapist, I help adults, couples, and adolescents address the core of their issues to resolve high-stress symptoms including anger, insomnia, depression, anxiety, grief, intrusive memories, substance misuse, suicidal thoughts, and relationship distress.
Is stress, burnout, anxiety, anger, depression, or substance misuse impacting your daily life and affecting your relationships? Therapy should be a proactive process that empowers you to experience results instead of just talking about it over and over again. I specialize in helping you take back control by addressing high-performance stress & environments, burnout, and traumatic events that disrupt your life. Many of my clients lead during emergencies and never thought that they’d be looking for help themselves including military service members, veterans, first responders, medical professionals, and their family members.
As a certified EMDR and complex trauma therapist, I help adults, couples, and adolescents address the core of their issues to resolve high-stress symptoms including anger, insomnia, depression, anxiety, grief, intrusive memories, substance misuse, suicidal thoughts, and relationship distress.
Is stress, burnout, anxiety, anger, depression, or substance misuse impacting your daily life and affecting your relationships? Therapy should be a proactive process that empowers you to experience results instead of just talking about it over and over again. I specialize in helping you take back control by addressing high-performance stress & environments, burnout, and traumatic events that disrupt your life. Many of my clients lead during emergencies and never thought that they’d be looking for help themselves including military service members, veterans, first responders, medical professionals, and their family members.
(615) 314-6788 View (615) 314-6788
Photo of Dr. King A Counts, DMin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. King A Counts
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMin, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37040
My aim is to serve my clients by providing excellent caring and effective therapy while respecting each client's individuality. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a Christian minister. I love helping people heal and progress. I provide online therapy. I have extensive experience helping people not only as a clinical therapist but also as a consultant and approved supervisor. I am very experienced helping with trauma, anxiety, depression, and anger using EMDR and many other approaches. I am also highly skilled in doing marriage and family therapy and have helped many couples and families develop happy relationships.
My aim is to serve my clients by providing excellent caring and effective therapy while respecting each client's individuality. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist and a Christian minister. I love helping people heal and progress. I provide online therapy. I have extensive experience helping people not only as a clinical therapist but also as a consultant and approved supervisor. I am very experienced helping with trauma, anxiety, depression, and anger using EMDR and many other approaches. I am also highly skilled in doing marriage and family therapy and have helped many couples and families develop happy relationships.
(615) 697-4077 View (615) 697-4077
Photo of Jazzmin Cohen Psyd, MA, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
Jazzmin Cohen Psyd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37040
My specialties are focused on Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a therapeutic approach used to relieve the distress caused by traumatic experiences or memories.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples on various issues. Some of the specific areas I excel at are with clients looking to conquer life's obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. During our time together, I will create a supportive environment and assist you in establishing goals and skills needed to achieve your desired lifestyle.
My specialties are focused on Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) which is a therapeutic approach used to relieve the distress caused by traumatic experiences or memories.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples on various issues. Some of the specific areas I excel at are with clients looking to conquer life's obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. During our time together, I will create a supportive environment and assist you in establishing goals and skills needed to achieve your desired lifestyle.
(615) 909-2384 View (615) 909-2384
Photo of Ana Jarrett, MA, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ana Jarrett
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37042
Growing up, you dreamed of being a mom. You were sure you'd always love being with your kids, make healthy meals they'd love, and have fun, educational activities planned every day. Turns out, parenting is exhausting, kids ask the same questions all day every day, and you also have to take care of your household which leaves you drained and irritated. This was not the dream! You don't want to yell at your kids to clean up every day. You want to still have energy for your partner to be the fun person you used to be. You've lost yourself and you want to find your way back to that dream life you imagined.
Growing up, you dreamed of being a mom. You were sure you'd always love being with your kids, make healthy meals they'd love, and have fun, educational activities planned every day. Turns out, parenting is exhausting, kids ask the same questions all day every day, and you also have to take care of your household which leaves you drained and irritated. This was not the dream! You don't want to yell at your kids to clean up every day. You want to still have energy for your partner to be the fun person you used to be. You've lost yourself and you want to find your way back to that dream life you imagined.
(931) 534-9352 View (931) 534-9352
Photo of Lauren Cobb - Inspired Counseling Services, PLLC, LCSW, LPC, RPT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Inspired Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Clarksville, TN 37043
Inspired is a dedicated group practice offering mental health counseling for children, individuals, families, and couples. We believe in everyone’s potential to lead a fulfilling life. Our skilled providers use evidence-based treatment approaches to help you achieve your goals and overcome challenges. Let us assist you in finding your inner peace and living your best life. Reach out to us today!
Inspired is a dedicated group practice offering mental health counseling for children, individuals, families, and couples. We believe in everyone’s potential to lead a fulfilling life. Our skilled providers use evidence-based treatment approaches to help you achieve your goals and overcome challenges. Let us assist you in finding your inner peace and living your best life. Reach out to us today!
(931) 343-6256 View (931) 343-6256
Photo of John DeMarco, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
John DeMarco
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Clarksville, TN 37043
Do you often feel like something is wrong with you? Do you wonder why other people seem to be happy while you can’t be? Are you tormented by excessive worry and overthinking? Does being social and vulnerable even with people you trust terrify you? Life by itself can be hard. Instead of parties and parades, it’s often obstacles, infidelity, fighting, betrayal, moves, funerals, and divorces. But every day, people just like you, are starting therapy and finding many accessible paths to joy, peace of mind, and a grounding that is their birthright. Are you in need of this type of relief?
Do you often feel like something is wrong with you? Do you wonder why other people seem to be happy while you can’t be? Are you tormented by excessive worry and overthinking? Does being social and vulnerable even with people you trust terrify you? Life by itself can be hard. Instead of parties and parades, it’s often obstacles, infidelity, fighting, betrayal, moves, funerals, and divorces. But every day, people just like you, are starting therapy and finding many accessible paths to joy, peace of mind, and a grounding that is their birthright. Are you in need of this type of relief?
(931) 807-2509 View (931) 807-2509
1

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.