EMDR Therapists in Henderson, TN

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 Julia L Mobiglia, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Julia L Mobiglia
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Henderson, TN 38340
I am also certified in EMDR.
It takes a lot of courage to take the first step in asking for help. I am committed to helping my clients address their needs and I like to meet them where they are. It is important to get to know my clients in order to help them work toward a healthier and more productive lifestyle. I am a licensed practical counselor and mental health specialist and have been in the field for over 6 years.
I am also certified in EMDR.
It takes a lot of courage to take the first step in asking for help. I am committed to helping my clients address their needs and I like to meet them where they are. It is important to get to know my clients in order to help them work toward a healthier and more productive lifestyle. I am a licensed practical counselor and mental health specialist and have been in the field for over 6 years.
(901) 295-6060 View (901) 295-6060
Photo of Taylor Bell, MS, LPC-MHS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taylor Bell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-MHS
Verified Verified
Henderson, TN 38340
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider designation (LPC-MHSP) based in the state of Tennessee. I received my Masters from Freed-Hardeman University five years ago and have been working with people struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression since that time. I am passionate about helping my clients reclaim purpose and joy in their lives.
Hello! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with a Mental Health Service Provider designation (LPC-MHSP) based in the state of Tennessee. I received my Masters from Freed-Hardeman University five years ago and have been working with people struggling with trauma, grief, anxiety, and depression since that time. I am passionate about helping my clients reclaim purpose and joy in their lives.
(731) 318-0499 View (731) 318-0499
Photo of Cinda Gee, MS, NCC, LPC/, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cinda Gee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC/, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Henderson, TN 38340
I am a licensed therapist with 16-years’ experience and a passion for working with individuals who have experienced trauma and crisis, including adult survivors of childhood trauma and individuals traumatized as adults by dangerous or life-threatening situations such as natural disasters, accidents, injuries, illness, abuse or violence including professionals that deal with such trauma (veterans, law enforce, fire and rescue, and medical personnel). I am also experienced working with adults who are struggling with other challenges including dissociation, profound grief, divorce, adjustment, depression, anxiety, job issues.
I am a licensed therapist with 16-years’ experience and a passion for working with individuals who have experienced trauma and crisis, including adult survivors of childhood trauma and individuals traumatized as adults by dangerous or life-threatening situations such as natural disasters, accidents, injuries, illness, abuse or violence including professionals that deal with such trauma (veterans, law enforce, fire and rescue, and medical personnel). I am also experienced working with adults who are struggling with other challenges including dissociation, profound grief, divorce, adjustment, depression, anxiety, job issues.
(731) 236-3623 View (731) 236-3623

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Todd Johnston, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Todd Johnston
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jackson, TN 38301
I offer personalized therapy using CBT, DBT, and EMDR among other modalities.
I am a dedicated counselor with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate their mental health journeys. With over 12 years of experience working in various service and social work fields, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals through trauma, abuse, neglect, family conflict, and behavioral challenges. I specialize in a wide range of mental health issues such as Depression, ODD, ADHD, Anxiety, Substance Use, and more. Whether you are dealing with trauma, behavioral issues, or seeking guidance for personal growth, I am here to help. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals.
I offer personalized therapy using CBT, DBT, and EMDR among other modalities.
I am a dedicated counselor with a passion for helping individuals and families navigate their mental health journeys. With over 12 years of experience working in various service and social work fields, I have had the privilege of supporting individuals through trauma, abuse, neglect, family conflict, and behavioral challenges. I specialize in a wide range of mental health issues such as Depression, ODD, ADHD, Anxiety, Substance Use, and more. Whether you are dealing with trauma, behavioral issues, or seeking guidance for personal growth, I am here to help. Together, we can work towards achieving your mental health goals.
(731) 472-8192 View (731) 472-8192

Online Therapists

Photo of Mary Hilgeman Neal, PhD, LPC, MHSP, S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Hilgeman Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP, S
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38117  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy, have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and am trained in perinatal mental health, including working with pregnant and post-partum women and their families.
Hi! I have a passion for working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and work life balance. I meet you where you are and challenge you as we work together to make needed changes in your life and heal from past experiences. I help you help yourself to improve your life for long lasting progress that will sustain past our time together. I strive to help you find joy in multiple areas of your life, improve your relationships, identify coping skills, and help you become a better communicator.
I am trained in EMDR trauma therapy, have advanced training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and am trained in perinatal mental health, including working with pregnant and post-partum women and their families.
Hi! I have a passion for working with clients who are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and work life balance. I meet you where you are and challenge you as we work together to make needed changes in your life and heal from past experiences. I help you help yourself to improve your life for long lasting progress that will sustain past our time together. I strive to help you find joy in multiple areas of your life, improve your relationships, identify coping skills, and help you become a better communicator.
(901) 460-2704 View (901) 460-2704
Photo of Elizabeth Dessify, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Dessify
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Dickson, TN 37055  (Online Only)
With a warm, empathetic and trauma-informed approach, I integrate various therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), and mindfulness-based practices to tailor treatment to each individual's needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, always behind, stuck, or at a loss? Navigating life is challenging and presents with seasons of overwhelming challenges. Maybe you don't know when it started to feel like this, maybe nothing signifiant occurred to change the course of life, but you know that you want to take back control. We will always be faced with challenges, but you don't have to feel exhausted, anxious, depression, or defeated daily. It takes courage to take this first step, but you can and you will live your best life.
With a warm, empathetic and trauma-informed approach, I integrate various therapeutic modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), and mindfulness-based practices to tailor treatment to each individual's needs.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, always behind, stuck, or at a loss? Navigating life is challenging and presents with seasons of overwhelming challenges. Maybe you don't know when it started to feel like this, maybe nothing signifiant occurred to change the course of life, but you know that you want to take back control. We will always be faced with challenges, but you don't have to feel exhausted, anxious, depression, or defeated daily. It takes courage to take this first step, but you can and you will live your best life.
(615) 701-3874 x740 View (615) 701-3874 x740
Photo of Caroline Schratz Lovett, LPC, MHSP, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Schratz Lovett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38117
I am a trauma-informed yoga instructor as well as trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR.
I am a holistic integrative wellness practitioner. I specialize in helping clients struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I particularly love helping those individuals who may be struggling with low self-esteem and self-worth. I enjoy guiding my clients to identify their own strengths and unlock the hidden potential that each of us possesses. I love working with individuals who are ready for change but are in need of some extrinsic motivation and guidance. For those parents who are looking for assistance for their children, I have extensive experience working with all ages, ranging from 4 to 18 years old.
I am a trauma-informed yoga instructor as well as trained in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR.
I am a holistic integrative wellness practitioner. I specialize in helping clients struggling with symptoms of anxiety, depression, and trauma. I particularly love helping those individuals who may be struggling with low self-esteem and self-worth. I enjoy guiding my clients to identify their own strengths and unlock the hidden potential that each of us possesses. I love working with individuals who are ready for change but are in need of some extrinsic motivation and guidance. For those parents who are looking for assistance for their children, I have extensive experience working with all ages, ranging from 4 to 18 years old.
(901) 460-2969 View (901) 460-2969
Photo of Terry Bernardini, MS, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Terry Bernardini
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Germantown, TN 38138
I am EMDR trained and find that this therapy helps with many areas clients want to address.
Are anxiety and depression constant companions in your life? Do you wonder if fulfillment in life, relationships, and work are possible? It could be that your life was going quite well until an unwelcome visitor such as chronic pain, a diagnosis, loss, addiction, betrayal, or trauma showed up to stay. Or, it could be that you have rarely if ever enjoyed a sense of well-being. My greatest joy is in helping people find strength, hope, and happiness despite the darkest of life’s experiences.
I am EMDR trained and find that this therapy helps with many areas clients want to address.
Are anxiety and depression constant companions in your life? Do you wonder if fulfillment in life, relationships, and work are possible? It could be that your life was going quite well until an unwelcome visitor such as chronic pain, a diagnosis, loss, addiction, betrayal, or trauma showed up to stay. Or, it could be that you have rarely if ever enjoyed a sense of well-being. My greatest joy is in helping people find strength, hope, and happiness despite the darkest of life’s experiences.
(901) 371-4711 View (901) 371-4711
Photo of Valerie Mckinney - Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy Memphis, Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Therapy Memphis
Counselor
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104
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 Kelsey Fields Caprio, LPC, MHSP, (Temp), Pre-Licensed Professional
Kelsey Fields Caprio
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, (Temp)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38119
I utilize aspects of SFT, CBT, EMDR, and DBT to help you reach your therapeutic goals.
Brené Brown once said, "Let go of who you think you're supposed to be. Embrace who you are." I would love to walk with you on this journey of embracing who you are as an individual, and who you want to become. Healing is never easy, but you will never have to do it alone. I have a huge passion for seeing people heal and grow into the person they didn’t feel they could become. I strive to create a safe space for anyone who takes the courageous step to share their story with me, as I know this is not an easy ask from anyone.
I utilize aspects of SFT, CBT, EMDR, and DBT to help you reach your therapeutic goals.
Brené Brown once said, "Let go of who you think you're supposed to be. Embrace who you are." I would love to walk with you on this journey of embracing who you are as an individual, and who you want to become. Healing is never easy, but you will never have to do it alone. I have a huge passion for seeing people heal and grow into the person they didn’t feel they could become. I strive to create a safe space for anyone who takes the courageous step to share their story with me, as I know this is not an easy ask from anyone.
(901) 245-5242 View (901) 245-5242
Photo of Susan Ham, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Susan Ham
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Dickson, TN 37055
I utilize techniques from cognitive-behavioral,experiential, psychoanalytic and family models, and I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing( EMDR) which is especially effective for treating trauma and PTSD.
I would be honored to assist and support you on your journey to a happier, more fufilled life with healthier relationships. With compassion and empathy I will help you discover the basis of your anger, anxiety, depression and other difficult feelings that have precipitated your struggles. Together we will explore your behaviors which have resulted from your hidden conflict and help you foster insight so that you do not repeat painful patterns that affect you and your relationships in the future. We will help you discover strength, clarity and confidence to resolve your issues and embrace a self-assured, empowered and positive life.
I utilize techniques from cognitive-behavioral,experiential, psychoanalytic and family models, and I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing( EMDR) which is especially effective for treating trauma and PTSD.
I would be honored to assist and support you on your journey to a happier, more fufilled life with healthier relationships. With compassion and empathy I will help you discover the basis of your anger, anxiety, depression and other difficult feelings that have precipitated your struggles. Together we will explore your behaviors which have resulted from your hidden conflict and help you foster insight so that you do not repeat painful patterns that affect you and your relationships in the future. We will help you discover strength, clarity and confidence to resolve your issues and embrace a self-assured, empowered and positive life.
(615) 270-9971 View (615) 270-9971
Photo of Gayden McFarlin Fite, MEd, LPC, MHSP, LICDC, TTS, Counselor
Gayden McFarlin Fite
Counselor, MEd, LPC, MHSP, LICDC, TTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kingston Springs, TN 37082
I have over 20 years experience in private practice and institutional settings. I work with individuals and couples. I use traditional talk therapy methods as well as instituting new approaches such as the use of EMDR for those suffering from trauma.
I have over 20 years experience in private practice and institutional settings. I work with individuals and couples. I use traditional talk therapy methods as well as instituting new approaches such as the use of EMDR for those suffering from trauma.
(615) 576-0972 View (615) 576-0972
Photo of Kristina S Curtiss, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kristina S Curtiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
I have received extensive trainings, including EMDR and TF-CBT, which enables me to create individualized treatment plans to help you develop essential life skills.
As a therapist, I strive to create an environment that affirms who you are as a person. Therapy involves some of our most vulnerable experiences and my practice centers on being supportive so you feel secure while exploring ways to improve your daily life. So much of a positive human experience involves being heard and validated by others, especially in our own homes. I will work with you and your loved ones to learn healthy communication skills to improve your relationships, increase acceptance and understanding in the home, and learn to manage conflict in a healthy manner.
I have received extensive trainings, including EMDR and TF-CBT, which enables me to create individualized treatment plans to help you develop essential life skills.
As a therapist, I strive to create an environment that affirms who you are as a person. Therapy involves some of our most vulnerable experiences and my practice centers on being supportive so you feel secure while exploring ways to improve your daily life. So much of a positive human experience involves being heard and validated by others, especially in our own homes. I will work with you and your loved ones to learn healthy communication skills to improve your relationships, increase acceptance and understanding in the home, and learn to manage conflict in a healthy manner.
(901) 582-6596 View (901) 582-6596
Photo of Jill N Fields, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill N Fields
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Columbia, TN 38401
My specialty is working with the adult population providing EMDR in 50-minute sessions or 1-3 day intensives.
It is my pleasure to offer therapeutic counseling in a comfortable, supportive environment where untapped resources abound and individuals experience renewed hope and confidence in self. If you or a loved one is currently experiencing a difficult season in life and feel prompted to explore therapeutic options, please feel free to email with any questions or concerns you may have.
My specialty is working with the adult population providing EMDR in 50-minute sessions or 1-3 day intensives.
It is my pleasure to offer therapeutic counseling in a comfortable, supportive environment where untapped resources abound and individuals experience renewed hope and confidence in self. If you or a loved one is currently experiencing a difficult season in life and feel prompted to explore therapeutic options, please feel free to email with any questions or concerns you may have.
(931) 208-4807 View (931) 208-4807
Photo of Jay Allen Stone, BS, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jay Allen Stone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, BS, LCSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38120
I pull from a variety of approaches including talk therapy, ego state/inner child work, emotionally focused therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and EMDR (a highly effective therapeutic intervention for trauma).
As a therapist I strive to provide a safe and nurturing space where you feel free to explore what it means to be you and navigate life’s struggles without judgement. Therapy brings us to some of our most vulnerable moments, and I make it my mission for you to feel heard, validated, and free to discover, maybe for the first time or perhaps again, who you are or who you’d like to become. I help clients navigate ways to improve their lives while also treating trauma-related issues, grief, relational and interpersonal challenges, family of origin issues, depression, and anxiety.
I pull from a variety of approaches including talk therapy, ego state/inner child work, emotionally focused therapy, mindfulness-based cognitive therapy, and EMDR (a highly effective therapeutic intervention for trauma).
As a therapist I strive to provide a safe and nurturing space where you feel free to explore what it means to be you and navigate life’s struggles without judgement. Therapy brings us to some of our most vulnerable moments, and I make it my mission for you to feel heard, validated, and free to discover, maybe for the first time or perhaps again, who you are or who you’d like to become. I help clients navigate ways to improve their lives while also treating trauma-related issues, grief, relational and interpersonal challenges, family of origin issues, depression, and anxiety.
(901) 403-6807 View (901) 403-6807
Photo of Dr. Eliyahu Reich, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Eliyahu Reich
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38134
In particular, I have certification and/or advanced training in the following treatments: For PTSD: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR); Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT); Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice, with previous experience working as a clinician at the Memphis VA Medical Center (2010-2022) as well as the Memphis Police Department (2022-2024). I offer individual and couples psychotherapy sessions, in-person or via telehealth video. I am currently an independent clinician working within a group practice called "Memphis Center for Women and Families" (but we see men as well!). I am licensed in Tennessee and Mississippi, and also hold PSYPACT authorization to conduct telehealth sessions to over 25 other states.
In particular, I have certification and/or advanced training in the following treatments: For PTSD: Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR); Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT); Prolonged Exposure Therapy (PE).
I am a clinical psychologist in private practice, with previous experience working as a clinician at the Memphis VA Medical Center (2010-2022) as well as the Memphis Police Department (2022-2024). I offer individual and couples psychotherapy sessions, in-person or via telehealth video. I am currently an independent clinician working within a group practice called "Memphis Center for Women and Families" (but we see men as well!). I am licensed in Tennessee and Mississippi, and also hold PSYPACT authorization to conduct telehealth sessions to over 25 other states.
(901) 673-3169 View (901) 673-3169
Photo of Grace Tierney, LPC, MHSP(T), MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Grace Tierney
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP(T), MA
Verified Verified
Columbia, TN 38401
I utilize CBT, family systems, and EMDR therapy.
Hello! Are you constantly worried about what others think of you? Do you struggle to set boundaries or feel weighed down by anxiety that never seems to leave? Or do you feel like you give of yourself until you have nothing left? I specialize in working with individuals who feel socially anxious, unsure of how to navigate relationships, or are overwhelmed by day-to-day worries that sit like a weight on their chest. My approach is warm, nonjudgmental, and focused on helping you regain control, find peace, and live a more confident, empowered life.
I utilize CBT, family systems, and EMDR therapy.
Hello! Are you constantly worried about what others think of you? Do you struggle to set boundaries or feel weighed down by anxiety that never seems to leave? Or do you feel like you give of yourself until you have nothing left? I specialize in working with individuals who feel socially anxious, unsure of how to navigate relationships, or are overwhelmed by day-to-day worries that sit like a weight on their chest. My approach is warm, nonjudgmental, and focused on helping you regain control, find peace, and live a more confident, empowered life.
(931) 281-8607 View (931) 281-8607
Photo of Charles E Winton Jr, LPC, MMFT, EMDR-II, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charles E Winton Jr
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MMFT, EMDR-II, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38119
Trauma Certified ( EMDR-II).
Concentrations:Marriage and Family Counseling Premarital Counseling Couple Therapy Trauma Adolescents Individual Anger Management Group Therapy
Trauma Certified ( EMDR-II).
Concentrations:Marriage and Family Counseling Premarital Counseling Couple Therapy Trauma Adolescents Individual Anger Management Group Therapy
(901) 295-0484 View (901) 295-0484
Photo of Tori Rogers, LPC-, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tori Rogers
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-, MHSP
Verified Verified
Columbia, TN 38401
I incorporate a combination of treatment modalities including EMDR, Trauma Sensitive Yoga, Psychodrama, Somatic Therapy, and Experiential Therapy.
My name is Tori Rogers. I am passionate about helping people move through pain, find empowerment, regulate their nervous systems, and connect to themselves in a more meaningful way. I believe, at times, we all feel like strangers to ourselves. I believe we are already whole and can feel shattered at the same time. I believe that the antidote to shame is self love. I believe that there is no better vehicle to connection to oneself than the natural world. I believe in chasing dreams. I believe that tapping into one’s intuition is the key to empowerment. I believe in holistic healing (which occurs mostly OUTSIDE of the therapy office).
I incorporate a combination of treatment modalities including EMDR, Trauma Sensitive Yoga, Psychodrama, Somatic Therapy, and Experiential Therapy.
My name is Tori Rogers. I am passionate about helping people move through pain, find empowerment, regulate their nervous systems, and connect to themselves in a more meaningful way. I believe, at times, we all feel like strangers to ourselves. I believe we are already whole and can feel shattered at the same time. I believe that the antidote to shame is self love. I believe that there is no better vehicle to connection to oneself than the natural world. I believe in chasing dreams. I believe that tapping into one’s intuition is the key to empowerment. I believe in holistic healing (which occurs mostly OUTSIDE of the therapy office).
(931) 213-7343 x3 View (931) 213-7343 x3

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EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.