EMDR Therapists in Hardin County, TN

Photo of Suanna Kay Cummings - A Beautiful Mind LLC, LPCMHSP, CPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
A Beautiful Mind LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, CPC
Verified Verified
Savannah, TN 38372
A Beautiful Mind is located in Las Vegas, NV & Savannah, TN. We are not just another therapy practice. We provide support and guidance for people who face difficulties, a safe place where recovery starts, and opportunities for positive change. Our team of dedicated therapists is united by a passion for helping others navigate the complexities of mental health with grace and resilience. Each therapist brings their own unique gifts and specialties to the table, creating a rich tapestry of healing modalities including CBT, DBT, TFCBT, IFS, and EMDR.
A Beautiful Mind is located in Las Vegas, NV & Savannah, TN. We are not just another therapy practice. We provide support and guidance for people who face difficulties, a safe place where recovery starts, and opportunities for positive change. Our team of dedicated therapists is united by a passion for helping others navigate the complexities of mental health with grace and resilience. Each therapist brings their own unique gifts and specialties to the table, creating a rich tapestry of healing modalities including CBT, DBT, TFCBT, IFS, and EMDR.
(731) 503-3190 View (731) 503-3190
Photo of Stephanie Howell- Braveeagle, LCSW, CCTP-II, C-DBT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Howell- Braveeagle
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II, C-DBT
Verified Verified
Savannah, TN 38372  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, and mindfulness and grounding techniques.
I am an experienced psychotherapist specializing in trauma treatment. With over 12 years of clinical practice, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals overcome the deep and often complex impacts of trauma. I hold a master’s degree in social work and have been independently licensed by the state of Tennessee since 2021. I am a certified trauma specialist with extensive training in evidence-based therapies. My approach is client-centered and compassionate, yet straight forward. Trauma affects each person differently, and therefore, I tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs of each client.
I utilize EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, and mindfulness and grounding techniques.
I am an experienced psychotherapist specializing in trauma treatment. With over 12 years of clinical practice, I have dedicated my career to helping individuals overcome the deep and often complex impacts of trauma. I hold a master’s degree in social work and have been independently licensed by the state of Tennessee since 2021. I am a certified trauma specialist with extensive training in evidence-based therapies. My approach is client-centered and compassionate, yet straight forward. Trauma affects each person differently, and therefore, I tailor my therapeutic interventions to meet the unique needs of each client.
(731) 749-7602 View (731) 749-7602

Online Therapists

Photo of Paul M Hambrick, MEd, MAC, SEP, Counselor
Paul M Hambrick
Counselor, MEd, MAC, SEP
Verified Verified
Bartlett, TN 38134
Treatments includes Mindfulness, EMDR and SE - Somatic Experiencing along with a very caring & listening ear.
TRAUMA: An overwhelming experience that is too much, too fast. If too stressed or truly overwhelmed, our natural survival responses can be blocked. If unable to complete our body’s survival responses, trauma can occur and often symptoms emerge. We can feel stuck in the fear of flight, the anger of fight or the depression of freeze. As one who facilitates healing from emotional, spiritual, and physical pain and suffering, I am dedicated to working compassionately, non-judgmentally and collaboratively with you to become "unstuck" and find a greater sense of healing and wholeness.
Treatments includes Mindfulness, EMDR and SE - Somatic Experiencing along with a very caring & listening ear.
TRAUMA: An overwhelming experience that is too much, too fast. If too stressed or truly overwhelmed, our natural survival responses can be blocked. If unable to complete our body’s survival responses, trauma can occur and often symptoms emerge. We can feel stuck in the fear of flight, the anger of fight or the depression of freeze. As one who facilitates healing from emotional, spiritual, and physical pain and suffering, I am dedicated to working compassionately, non-judgmentally and collaboratively with you to become "unstuck" and find a greater sense of healing and wholeness.
(901) 310-1789 View (901) 310-1789
Photo of Shadeau Rhodes, LCSW, CFTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shadeau Rhodes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CFTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Cordova, TN 38018
Waitlist for new clients
My areas of training include ARC, EMDR, TFCBT, ego states, and NMT.
I became a therapist to help make sense of life and the struggles and challenges we all face. I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others so that they did not feel alone in facing stress, trauma, and hurts. I believe therapy is for everyone and people deserve spaces where they can feel safe, heard, and understood. My goal is to treat the whole person and meet clients where they are in the healing journey. I believe each person is the expert of their own experience and that everyone deserves to live their most beautiful life despite the many challenges and struggles that life brings.
My areas of training include ARC, EMDR, TFCBT, ego states, and NMT.
I became a therapist to help make sense of life and the struggles and challenges we all face. I wanted to make a difference in the lives of others so that they did not feel alone in facing stress, trauma, and hurts. I believe therapy is for everyone and people deserve spaces where they can feel safe, heard, and understood. My goal is to treat the whole person and meet clients where they are in the healing journey. I believe each person is the expert of their own experience and that everyone deserves to live their most beautiful life despite the many challenges and struggles that life brings.
(901) 308-6991 View (901) 308-6991
Photo of Nona Kelly - Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy Nashville, Marriage & Family Therapist
Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy Nashville
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Nashville, TN 37215
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(855) 524-5193 View (855) 524-5193
Photo of Dr. Nicole Breeding, EdD, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr. Nicole Breeding
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Henderson, TN 38340
I am trained in EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, which helps people with trauma.
Women and men who have experienced trauma in any way are the clients I work with most and enjoy helping. I want to help them release some of the pain and tension their bodies hold. I would like to honor where they have been and where they would like to be. I know that living with pain and grief is difficult and I would like to help people heal from things without losing the most precious parts of themselves.
I am trained in EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, which helps people with trauma.
Women and men who have experienced trauma in any way are the clients I work with most and enjoy helping. I want to help them release some of the pain and tension their bodies hold. I would like to honor where they have been and where they would like to be. I know that living with pain and grief is difficult and I would like to help people heal from things without losing the most precious parts of themselves.
(731) 327-6047 View (731) 327-6047
Photo of Kaye Bradley Williams, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kaye Bradley Williams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I use EMDR as needed.
May I offer you a place to vent, process and renew? Maybe you are holding a tired head in your hands saying “what is happening with me?” My belief is that sharing your precious inner thoughts and emotions in a safe setting is a worthy effort. I can help to make sense of it alongside you. I work with those in recovery from narcissistic and traumatic abuse, those trying to change their "people pleasing" behaviors, and with those seeking growth and awareness during major life transitions. You may find that after the first session you feel great relief. In person/ Video sessions are available for anyone living in TN.
I use EMDR as needed.
May I offer you a place to vent, process and renew? Maybe you are holding a tired head in your hands saying “what is happening with me?” My belief is that sharing your precious inner thoughts and emotions in a safe setting is a worthy effort. I can help to make sense of it alongside you. I work with those in recovery from narcissistic and traumatic abuse, those trying to change their "people pleasing" behaviors, and with those seeking growth and awareness during major life transitions. You may find that after the first session you feel great relief. In person/ Video sessions are available for anyone living in TN.
(615) 208-5098 View (615) 208-5098
Photo of Cayce Jeanes, MA, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cayce Jeanes
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
Follow this link to hear more of Cayce's work with EMDR: https://www.
Cayce views counseling as a sacred process that involves connection, recovery, and hope. Through her own clinical experience, she recognizes the courage it takes for clients to allow their vulnerability to overpower the paralysis of shame and fear. As Brene Brown once wrote, "You either walk into your story and own your truth, or you live outside of your story, hustling for your worthiness." Cayce's ultimate desire is to provide a safe place for you to come, be heard, and walk through your own story towards healing.
Follow this link to hear more of Cayce's work with EMDR: https://www.
Cayce views counseling as a sacred process that involves connection, recovery, and hope. Through her own clinical experience, she recognizes the courage it takes for clients to allow their vulnerability to overpower the paralysis of shame and fear. As Brene Brown once wrote, "You either walk into your story and own your truth, or you live outside of your story, hustling for your worthiness." Cayce's ultimate desire is to provide a safe place for you to come, be heard, and walk through your own story towards healing.
(901) 531-9963 View (901) 531-9963
Photo of Dave Saunders, LPC-MHS, NCC, MA, EMDR, BSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dave Saunders
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-MHS, NCC, MA, EMDR, BSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I specialize in helping adults (age 18 and up) suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, and trauma using EMDR, Brainspotting, and other evidence based approaches.
My typical client feels drained at the end of each day due to anxiety or trauma. Trying to appear “normal” can be a full time job if your mind is constantly racing and you haven’t had a good night’s sleep in a long time. Maybe you are tired of overreacting to those around you or you think you just have to live with the trauma of past events.
I specialize in helping adults (age 18 and up) suffering from anxiety, panic attacks, and trauma using EMDR, Brainspotting, and other evidence based approaches.
My typical client feels drained at the end of each day due to anxiety or trauma. Trying to appear “normal” can be a full time job if your mind is constantly racing and you haven’t had a good night’s sleep in a long time. Maybe you are tired of overreacting to those around you or you think you just have to live with the trauma of past events.
(615) 488-7562 View (615) 488-7562
Photo of Traci Skinner, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Traci Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117
I am trauma focused ( EMDR trained) to provide support and individually tailored techniques, strategies and solutions to help you feel better quickly.
Feeling uncertain, alone, sad, lonely, invisible, or isolated about life, relationships or work/school? Have anxiety, depression, or trauma left you with a lack of motivation or negative self talk that prevents you from meeting your goals?
I am trauma focused ( EMDR trained) to provide support and individually tailored techniques, strategies and solutions to help you feel better quickly.
Feeling uncertain, alone, sad, lonely, invisible, or isolated about life, relationships or work/school? Have anxiety, depression, or trauma left you with a lack of motivation or negative self talk that prevents you from meeting your goals?
(901) 675-6447 View (901) 675-6447
Photo of Britt Palmer, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Britt Palmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Germantown, TN 38138
Yeah, I do have extensive training & certifications ( EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, Family Systems Therapy, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Trauma Conscious Yoga, and Eating Disorders), but more importantly, I know how to help you make changes!.
You want to change behaviors, and change negative feelings, not just understand them. Building insight is important, but that's not enough. Most of us know why we do what we do, where that comes from (our old stuff). It is not enough to just understand behavior. There's something that keeps us stuck - whether its a cycle within ourselves, or a cycle with another person. We have got to change our old patterns by embodying a new truth for ourselves, from our head to our toes. That takes a ton of trust in something foreign and new.
Yeah, I do have extensive training & certifications ( EMDR, Safe and Sound Protocol, Family Systems Therapy, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Trauma Conscious Yoga, and Eating Disorders), but more importantly, I know how to help you make changes!.
You want to change behaviors, and change negative feelings, not just understand them. Building insight is important, but that's not enough. Most of us know why we do what we do, where that comes from (our old stuff). It is not enough to just understand behavior. There's something that keeps us stuck - whether its a cycle within ourselves, or a cycle with another person. We have got to change our old patterns by embodying a new truth for ourselves, from our head to our toes. That takes a ton of trust in something foreign and new.
(901) 660-2110 View (901) 660-2110
Photo of Nesha McMullen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nesha McMullen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Greenfield, TN 38230  (Online Only)
I have honed my skills in EMDR therapy, a powerful modality that deeply resonates with my commitment to holistic healing.
Hi! I'm Nesha McMullen, a clinician dedicated to supporting individuals on their journeys towards improved well-being. I have experience working with individuals facing a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, life transitions, and trauma. I truly believe in each individual's inherent capacity for resilience and healing. I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing space where individuals feel empowered to explore their emotions and experiences. I look forward to offering you my support, guidance, and compassion as you embark on a path towards healing and growth.
I have honed my skills in EMDR therapy, a powerful modality that deeply resonates with my commitment to holistic healing.
Hi! I'm Nesha McMullen, a clinician dedicated to supporting individuals on their journeys towards improved well-being. I have experience working with individuals facing a variety of challenges such as depression, anxiety, life transitions, and trauma. I truly believe in each individual's inherent capacity for resilience and healing. I am dedicated to creating a safe and nurturing space where individuals feel empowered to explore their emotions and experiences. I look forward to offering you my support, guidance, and compassion as you embark on a path towards healing and growth.
(731) 251-4850 View (731) 251-4850
Photo of Lori Weiss Inkrot - Kimberly Shultz Counseling, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kimberly Shultz Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37067
I integrate EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), IFS, and polyvagal therapy based on neurobiology.
I see my clients through the humanistic psychology lens. I stress the inherent value of human beings and focus on their ability and willingness to maintain dignity while growing in self-respect and competence. I take the holistic approach (Salutogensis), integrating a sense of coherence between health, stress, and coping versus the pathogenic system that looks for a problem to be fixed. The wellness model sees the world as understandable, manageable, and meaningful.
I integrate EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), IFS, and polyvagal therapy based on neurobiology.
I see my clients through the humanistic psychology lens. I stress the inherent value of human beings and focus on their ability and willingness to maintain dignity while growing in self-respect and competence. I take the holistic approach (Salutogensis), integrating a sense of coherence between health, stress, and coping versus the pathogenic system that looks for a problem to be fixed. The wellness model sees the world as understandable, manageable, and meaningful.
(615) 903-0478 View (615) 903-0478
Photo of Dyani Saxby, PhD, ABPP, DBSM, Psychologist
Dyani Saxby
Psychologist, PhD, ABPP, DBSM
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37064
I help people suffering with insomnia, chronic medical conditions, pain, anxiety, depression, and trauma who want more out of their lives. Having board certifications in both health psychology and behavioral sleep medicine, I am prepared to work with clients who have complex health and sleep concerns such as insomnia. I also use EMDR to help clients work through traumatic events that are affecting physical health. I strive to offer compassionate, responsive, collaborative, and high quality treatments to improve health, well-being, and functioning. With gentle guidance, everyone has the capacity to restore balance and peaceful sleep.
I help people suffering with insomnia, chronic medical conditions, pain, anxiety, depression, and trauma who want more out of their lives. Having board certifications in both health psychology and behavioral sleep medicine, I am prepared to work with clients who have complex health and sleep concerns such as insomnia. I also use EMDR to help clients work through traumatic events that are affecting physical health. I strive to offer compassionate, responsive, collaborative, and high quality treatments to improve health, well-being, and functioning. With gentle guidance, everyone has the capacity to restore balance and peaceful sleep.
(629) 280-3117 x2 View (629) 280-3117 x2
Photo of Joseph Douglas Kinnard, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Joseph Douglas Kinnard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
My practice is trauma based and I offer EMDR to help deal with the trauma in the lives of my clients.
I am a licensed professional counselor who works with adults using cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, with a focus on somatic and experiential approaches to treatment as well. My passion is to help people who have spent their lives helping others.
My practice is trauma based and I offer EMDR to help deal with the trauma in the lives of my clients.
I am a licensed professional counselor who works with adults using cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, with a focus on somatic and experiential approaches to treatment as well. My passion is to help people who have spent their lives helping others.
(629) 276-3968 View (629) 276-3968
Photo of Kimery Cockrell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimery Cockrell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37069
I am an EMDR and EFIT trained trauma informed therapist with a specialty for adults experiencing mental health concerns related issues such as perinatal depression/anxiety/OCD, parenthood, domestic violence recovery, and interpersonal relationships.
Hi! I am Kimery with Sonderhaus Counseling. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in perinatal mental health, I offer compassionate and collaborative support to individuals navigating the challenges of prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety as well as complex trauma and attachment wounds. I tend to see adult clients who are navigating the challenges of these concerns as well as issues related to parenthood/parenting, domestic violence, and interpersonal relationships. I utilize a variety of approaches to help you learn, cope, process and heal.
I am an EMDR and EFIT trained trauma informed therapist with a specialty for adults experiencing mental health concerns related issues such as perinatal depression/anxiety/OCD, parenthood, domestic violence recovery, and interpersonal relationships.
Hi! I am Kimery with Sonderhaus Counseling. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in perinatal mental health, I offer compassionate and collaborative support to individuals navigating the challenges of prenatal and postpartum depression and anxiety as well as complex trauma and attachment wounds. I tend to see adult clients who are navigating the challenges of these concerns as well as issues related to parenthood/parenting, domestic violence, and interpersonal relationships. I utilize a variety of approaches to help you learn, cope, process and heal.
(629) 205-0513 View (629) 205-0513
Photo of Kristi Nobbman Dunaway, PhD, NCC, LPC (t), Counselor
Kristi Nobbman Dunaway
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC (t)
Verified Verified
Cordova, TN 38018
I am trained in Perinatal Mental Health, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), grief/bereavement, and teletherapy.
Life transitions can be difficult and dysregulating. Clients typically come in feeling overwhelmed or numb to what is going on in their life. Other clients feel stuck because of a past or recent trauma. My clients are open to exploring the mind-body connection as we collaboratively work together to find what works for them to create stability and joy in their everyday lives.
I am trained in Perinatal Mental Health, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), grief/bereavement, and teletherapy.
Life transitions can be difficult and dysregulating. Clients typically come in feeling overwhelmed or numb to what is going on in their life. Other clients feel stuck because of a past or recent trauma. My clients are open to exploring the mind-body connection as we collaboratively work together to find what works for them to create stability and joy in their everyday lives.
(901) 329-3711 View (901) 329-3711
Photo of Liz Perez - Liz Perez Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Liz Perez Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Franklin, TN 37069
I am also trained in Brainspotting and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) for clients with trauma.
My passion is working with couples that feel stuck and pulled into destructive communication patterns in their relationship. I help couples heal from deep hurts and move towards intimate connection using Emotionally Focused Therapy, which is backed by research and a highly effective model for helping couples rebuild intimacy.
I am also trained in Brainspotting and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) for clients with trauma.
My passion is working with couples that feel stuck and pulled into destructive communication patterns in their relationship. I help couples heal from deep hurts and move towards intimate connection using Emotionally Focused Therapy, which is backed by research and a highly effective model for helping couples rebuild intimacy.
(615) 645-3758 View (615) 645-3758
Photo of Taylor Eades, LPC, MHSP(T), NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Taylor Eades
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP(T), NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Brentwood, TN 37027
I am fully trained in EMDR and Brainspotting I and II, in order to further treat complex trauma.
Starting the therapeutic journey can sometimes feel overwhelming. I am here to hopefully make the process feel as easy as possible and to meet you wherever you are finding yourself. I have experience working with teenagers as young as 15, to adults in their late 70s. My specialties include working with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, chronic health issues and I have experience working with those who have a TBI. Together we can step towards identifying how your own unique story has impacted you, and work to give you the tools that you need in order to accomplish your goals.
I am fully trained in EMDR and Brainspotting I and II, in order to further treat complex trauma.
Starting the therapeutic journey can sometimes feel overwhelming. I am here to hopefully make the process feel as easy as possible and to meet you wherever you are finding yourself. I have experience working with teenagers as young as 15, to adults in their late 70s. My specialties include working with trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, chronic health issues and I have experience working with those who have a TBI. Together we can step towards identifying how your own unique story has impacted you, and work to give you the tools that you need in order to accomplish your goals.
(615) 488-3573 View (615) 488-3573
Photo of Jeanetta Reston - Jeanetta Reston, LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jeanetta Reston, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Franklin, TN 37067
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist with EMDRIA.
I know the courage it takes to walk into someone's office for the first time, so I strive to create an encouraging environment. My life experience has given me compassion and empathy for people who are hurting and are in need of help. I know how the past can influence the present and how the future can seem less hopeful. I believe hope is a powerful force. So if your lacking hope, I have extra you can borrow. Allot of my practice involves trauma work with individuals and couples and I utilize EMDR and Gottman method.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist with EMDRIA.
I know the courage it takes to walk into someone's office for the first time, so I strive to create an encouraging environment. My life experience has given me compassion and empathy for people who are hurting and are in need of help. I know how the past can influence the present and how the future can seem less hopeful. I believe hope is a powerful force. So if your lacking hope, I have extra you can borrow. Allot of my practice involves trauma work with individuals and couples and I utilize EMDR and Gottman method.
(615) 205-6694 View (615) 205-6694

See more therapy options for Hardin County

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.