EMDR Therapists in Jefferson City, TN

Photo of Alexis Castle, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Castle
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm Alexis, a creative therapist with a direct approach. I enjoy working side by side with my clients to help them reach their goals. Starting therapy is a difficult step for many and I aim to present a welcoming and safe environment for each of my clients. My clinical focus is working with individuals who have experienced trauma, have complex PTSD, or are working through dissociative disorders. In addition, I work with women who have ADHD— especially those that have been diagnosed in adulthood. I am trained in EMDR and in DBR levels 1-3 as well as adjunctive DBR trainings.
Hello! I'm Alexis, a creative therapist with a direct approach. I enjoy working side by side with my clients to help them reach their goals. Starting therapy is a difficult step for many and I aim to present a welcoming and safe environment for each of my clients. My clinical focus is working with individuals who have experienced trauma, have complex PTSD, or are working through dissociative disorders. In addition, I work with women who have ADHD— especially those that have been diagnosed in adulthood. I am trained in EMDR and in DBR levels 1-3 as well as adjunctive DBR trainings.
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Photo of Morgan Daniels Dudash, MA, NCC, LPC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan Daniels Dudash
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jefferson City, TN 37760
I use a combination of CBT, mindfulness techniques, and EMDR to help clients identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs, develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation, and process past traumas to move forward in their lives.
I am driven to support individuals in their personal growth and development, as well as help them make positive changes in their lives. I enjoy working with those who have a strong desire to understand themselves better, identify their core values and beliefs, and develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance. I appreciate individuals who are open to exploring their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and who are willing to challenge themselves to try new things and take risks. I understand that it can be difficult to step out of one’s comfort zone, but I am here to support and encourage individuals.
I use a combination of CBT, mindfulness techniques, and EMDR to help clients identify and challenge negative thoughts and beliefs, develop greater self-awareness and emotional regulation, and process past traumas to move forward in their lives.
I am driven to support individuals in their personal growth and development, as well as help them make positive changes in their lives. I enjoy working with those who have a strong desire to understand themselves better, identify their core values and beliefs, and develop a greater sense of self-awareness and self-acceptance. I appreciate individuals who are open to exploring their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, and who are willing to challenge themselves to try new things and take risks. I understand that it can be difficult to step out of one’s comfort zone, but I am here to support and encourage individuals.
(865) 375-9257 View (865) 375-9257
Photo of Kristel Headley, PhD, LPCMHSP, ACS, RPT-S, BC-TMH, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristel Headley
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCMHSP, ACS, RPT-S, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760  (Online Only)
I work with clients using a combination of talk therapy approaches, sandtray therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting.
You find yourself operating on autopilot most days - perhaps you're still getting things done, but not connecting to meaning, purpose, or your authentic self. Perhaps life is getting the best of you and you can't seem to come out on top any longer. It may be that anxiety attacks or panic dot the landscape of your life, or that you're feeling the steady creep of depression. Unwanted memories from the past may be taking their toll. You're ready to live a connected, joyful, authentic life, free from the fog of whatever might be holding you back.
I work with clients using a combination of talk therapy approaches, sandtray therapy, EMDR, and Brainspotting.
You find yourself operating on autopilot most days - perhaps you're still getting things done, but not connecting to meaning, purpose, or your authentic self. Perhaps life is getting the best of you and you can't seem to come out on top any longer. It may be that anxiety attacks or panic dot the landscape of your life, or that you're feeling the steady creep of depression. Unwanted memories from the past may be taking their toll. You're ready to live a connected, joyful, authentic life, free from the fog of whatever might be holding you back.
(865) 674-9527 View (865) 674-9527
Photo of Kay C Free - KCF Counseling LLC, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
KCF Counseling LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Additionally, I am a trauma informed EMDR trained therapist.
Greetings! My name is Kay C Free, and I am here to help you on your journey to wellness. Life on life's terms can be challenging at best. Experiencing life's hardships, whether current or past, grief, anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma or drug/alcohol struggles, can only add to those challenges. I believe, however, that everyone has the capacity to move beyond those challenges and experience strong, healthy lives and relationships! Taking the first step toward seeking help is often the hardest part of the journey but seeking in itself shows inner strength and the capacity for resilience.
Additionally, I am a trauma informed EMDR trained therapist.
Greetings! My name is Kay C Free, and I am here to help you on your journey to wellness. Life on life's terms can be challenging at best. Experiencing life's hardships, whether current or past, grief, anxiety, depression, relationships, trauma or drug/alcohol struggles, can only add to those challenges. I believe, however, that everyone has the capacity to move beyond those challenges and experience strong, healthy lives and relationships! Taking the first step toward seeking help is often the hardest part of the journey but seeking in itself shows inner strength and the capacity for resilience.
(865) 344-1191 View (865) 344-1191
Photo of Edna (Kathleen) Clark, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Edna (Kathleen) Clark
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW-S, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jefferson City, TN 37760
Over the past 16 years, I have successfully guided clients in the achievement of emotional well-being and personal growth in the areas of A.D.H.D., Anxiety, and Trauma.
Over the past 16 years, I have successfully guided clients in the achievement of emotional well-being and personal growth in the areas of A.D.H.D., Anxiety, and Trauma.
(865) 737-1962 View (865) 737-1962
Photo of Shannon McBride, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shannon McBride
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Jefferson City, TN 37760  (Online Only)
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
One of the things life has taught me is to not believe everything you think because our mind can really play tricks on us. There is hope even when you think there is none. There are solutions even when you cannot see them, because you have more power than you know.
(865) 324-0783 View (865) 324-0783
Photo of Morgan Frazier Bowlin, MS, NCC, LPCMHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Morgan Frazier Bowlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Jefferson City, TN 37760
I have experience working with infants/toddlers, children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Child-Parent Psychotherapy. I offer a compassionate, encouraging, patient, and supportive nature when working with clients. I am able to sit with clients in their struggles and explore their goals of how they want life to be improved as we work through their issues together.
I have experience working with infants/toddlers, children, adolescents, young adults, and adults. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and Child-Parent Psychotherapy. I offer a compassionate, encouraging, patient, and supportive nature when working with clients. I am able to sit with clients in their struggles and explore their goals of how they want life to be improved as we work through their issues together.
(865) 276-8178 View (865) 276-8178

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Claudia Hirsemann Lcsw, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Hirsemann Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Dandridge, TN 37725
Limited openings online or in person. I treat severe trauma, complex/developmental trauma, toxic relationship trauma, wayward and misfit people, substance abuse, and am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I work with people 16 years and older. Whether you are dealing with a recent or life long issue your experiences have a great impact on your life. Often we are given mixed or untrue messages & labels that follow us throughout life. I want to help you differentiate who YOU really are from who you have been told you "should be." Together we can find your Authentic You. The fastest way to begin is to fill out this form: forms.gle/56kW2sB42UwQd6DAA
Limited openings online or in person. I treat severe trauma, complex/developmental trauma, toxic relationship trauma, wayward and misfit people, substance abuse, and am LGBTQIA+ affirming. I work with people 16 years and older. Whether you are dealing with a recent or life long issue your experiences have a great impact on your life. Often we are given mixed or untrue messages & labels that follow us throughout life. I want to help you differentiate who YOU really are from who you have been told you "should be." Together we can find your Authentic You. The fastest way to begin is to fill out this form: forms.gle/56kW2sB42UwQd6DAA
(865) 328-7975 View (865) 328-7975
Photo of Esmilsa Elizabeth Alford-Christian - Esmilsa Alford-Christian, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Esmilsa Alford-Christian
Licensed Professional Counselor, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Talbott, TN 37877  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Not accepting clients at this time! Seeking help can be scary, but the decision to initiate therapy is an important step. Often, we struggle in silence, feeling alone, overwhelmed with depression & anxiety.
Not accepting clients at this time! Seeking help can be scary, but the decision to initiate therapy is an important step. Often, we struggle in silence, feeling alone, overwhelmed with depression & anxiety.
(865) 213-9120 View (865) 213-9120

Online Therapists

Photo of Amy L Dilworth, MS, LPC, MHSP, AS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy L Dilworth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, AS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37921
I use EMDR, Expressive Arts, movement, and other techniques.
I serve individuals who have encountered trauma in their lives. They typically struggle with getting easily triggered and being in fight, flight or freeze mode a lot of the time. It often feels like anxiety so many of my clients come in saying they suffer with anxiety. Many of my clients also struggle with making decisions.
I use EMDR, Expressive Arts, movement, and other techniques.
I serve individuals who have encountered trauma in their lives. They typically struggle with getting easily triggered and being in fight, flight or freeze mode a lot of the time. It often feels like anxiety so many of my clients come in saying they suffer with anxiety. Many of my clients also struggle with making decisions.
(865) 346-6015 View (865) 346-6015
Photo of Claire Ward, Licensed Professional Counselor
Claire Ward
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37917
I offer talk therapy (primarily CBT, DBT, & ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hi there! I'm Claire, a licensed professional counselor living and working in Knoxville, TN. I know the journey to finding a therapist can be daunting and think you should be proud of yourself for taking this step! I have been working as a therapist for five years, three of those working exclusively with sexual trauma survivors. Through this experience, I realized my passion is creating safe spaces for people to explore their experiences without fear of judgment. I would consider it a privilege to create a space like this for you.
I offer talk therapy (primarily CBT, DBT, & ACT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hi there! I'm Claire, a licensed professional counselor living and working in Knoxville, TN. I know the journey to finding a therapist can be daunting and think you should be proud of yourself for taking this step! I have been working as a therapist for five years, three of those working exclusively with sexual trauma survivors. Through this experience, I realized my passion is creating safe spaces for people to explore their experiences without fear of judgment. I would consider it a privilege to create a space like this for you.
(865) 276-8289 View (865) 276-8289
Photo of Angelyn Nicholson, LCSW, RMT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angelyn Nicholson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RMT
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37918
I am an EMDR II practitioner and often pair this methodology with traditional talk therapy and Master level Reiki.
I am a seasoned therapist who highly values customizing your experience for the most effective path to success. I specialize in treating adults recovering from relationships with personality disordered people (Borderline PD and Narcissistic PD), complex trauma recovery, adults with ADHD and those who seek transformation. I'm a metaphysical teacher and healer, and use my intuitive ability to help assist in energy work as well as therapeutic work.
I am an EMDR II practitioner and often pair this methodology with traditional talk therapy and Master level Reiki.
I am a seasoned therapist who highly values customizing your experience for the most effective path to success. I specialize in treating adults recovering from relationships with personality disordered people (Borderline PD and Narcissistic PD), complex trauma recovery, adults with ADHD and those who seek transformation. I'm a metaphysical teacher and healer, and use my intuitive ability to help assist in energy work as well as therapeutic work.
(865) 268-4450 View (865) 268-4450
Photo of Laura Catherine Eddlemon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Catherine Eddlemon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR, PET, ICBT & EXRP.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field I strive to provide informed and evidence based treatment to clients of diverse backgrounds in a safe, supportive, and accepting environment. Therapy is a unique experience in which we can create the space that we don't often make for ourselves otherwise to stay with and explore our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I recognize that seeking support can be difficult and I truly value the positive feedback my clients have provided regarding their feelings of comfort and safety in their work with me.
EMDR, PET, ICBT & EXRP.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 20 years of experience in the field I strive to provide informed and evidence based treatment to clients of diverse backgrounds in a safe, supportive, and accepting environment. Therapy is a unique experience in which we can create the space that we don't often make for ourselves otherwise to stay with and explore our thoughts, feelings, and experiences. I recognize that seeking support can be difficult and I truly value the positive feedback my clients have provided regarding their feelings of comfort and safety in their work with me.
(865) 761-3319 View (865) 761-3319
Photo of Sybil R Smith - The Journey Center for Healing Arts, PLLC, MA, LPCS, FAMI, MT-BC, MHSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
The Journey Center for Healing Arts, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS, FAMI, MT-BC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37604
(Some of our training includes: EMDR, Brainspotting, Bonny Method GIM, Hakomi, Somatic Mindfulness, MARI and therapeutic Art, Sand Tray and Play therapy, and attachment work.
At The Journey Center for Healing Arts, we are passionate about helping people move beyond their past and into a full, authentic life. Trauma affects us all at some level - surviving physical pain, emotional pain, or spiritual pain - and it can keep us from living the life we want. We want to see you thrive through your healing process instead of continuing to struggle with worry, overwhelm, anxiety, depression, grief, and unhealthy relationships.
(Some of our training includes: EMDR, Brainspotting, Bonny Method GIM, Hakomi, Somatic Mindfulness, MARI and therapeutic Art, Sand Tray and Play therapy, and attachment work.
At The Journey Center for Healing Arts, we are passionate about helping people move beyond their past and into a full, authentic life. Trauma affects us all at some level - surviving physical pain, emotional pain, or spiritual pain - and it can keep us from living the life we want. We want to see you thrive through your healing process instead of continuing to struggle with worry, overwhelm, anxiety, depression, grief, and unhealthy relationships.
(423) 408-8041 View (423) 408-8041
Photo of Jimmy Hill, LPC, MHSP, CSAT, cPA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jimmy Hill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, CSAT, cPA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37919
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a trauma-informed IFS and EMDR therapist. I work with clients who are struggling with sexually compulsive and addictive behaviors including compulsive porn use, infidelity, sexual aversions, and other problematic behaviors. I offer a non-judgmental, empirically-based approach to help work through and resolve behaviors. If you have any questions about whether or not a compulsion or addiction is present, I would be happy to assess those behaviors and provide recommendations.
Visit my website for real-time availability and to request an appointment. I am a Certified Sex Addiction Therapist and a trauma-informed IFS and EMDR therapist. I work with clients who are struggling with sexually compulsive and addictive behaviors including compulsive porn use, infidelity, sexual aversions, and other problematic behaviors. I offer a non-judgmental, empirically-based approach to help work through and resolve behaviors. If you have any questions about whether or not a compulsion or addiction is present, I would be happy to assess those behaviors and provide recommendations.
(865) 390-7656 View (865) 390-7656
Photo of Fran Palin, PhD, HSP, Psychologist
Fran Palin
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37919
Waitlist for new clients
Training highlights include EMDR; Past Life Regression Therapy (with Dr.
Life is now. We all experience inner and outer obstacles that interfere with living life to its fullest. Growth / progress usually stems from understanding who we are, what needs to change within ourselves and our relationships, learning new ways to heal, forgive, and communicate, and letting go of patterns that interfere. Therapy is unique for each of us. I integrate and tailor various approaches to address the mind, body, and spirit. We will partner together to address your goals. I will bring compassion, creativity, sensitivity, warmth, accountability, and insight to our work together.
Training highlights include EMDR; Past Life Regression Therapy (with Dr.
Life is now. We all experience inner and outer obstacles that interfere with living life to its fullest. Growth / progress usually stems from understanding who we are, what needs to change within ourselves and our relationships, learning new ways to heal, forgive, and communicate, and letting go of patterns that interfere. Therapy is unique for each of us. I integrate and tailor various approaches to address the mind, body, and spirit. We will partner together to address your goals. I will bring compassion, creativity, sensitivity, warmth, accountability, and insight to our work together.
(865) 551-6913 View (865) 551-6913
Photo of Megan Loving - Loving Counseling and Consultation LLC, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC, Counselor
Loving Counseling and Consultation LLC
Counselor, MA, LPCMHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Greeneville, TN 37745
At LCC, we work with trauma and we place a focus of getting our counselors trained in EMDR Therapy since we believe in what it can help us do for our clients.
At Loving Counseling, our ideal client is one who's motivated to change their lives in a positive way and who just need some assistance to get there. All of our counselors want to support and help you nourish the skills necessary to be successful no matter what challenges you're facing. We see individuals of all ages, couples, and families in our offices. We will work with any issue that comes through our door if our clients think we can be a good fit for them and build a solid relationship to help them heal.
At LCC, we work with trauma and we place a focus of getting our counselors trained in EMDR Therapy since we believe in what it can help us do for our clients.
At Loving Counseling, our ideal client is one who's motivated to change their lives in a positive way and who just need some assistance to get there. All of our counselors want to support and help you nourish the skills necessary to be successful no matter what challenges you're facing. We see individuals of all ages, couples, and families in our offices. We will work with any issue that comes through our door if our clients think we can be a good fit for them and build a solid relationship to help them heal.
(423) 250-1898 View (423) 250-1898
Photo of Alexander Jose Velez, t-LPC, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alexander Jose Velez
Pre-Licensed Professional, t-LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Knoxville, TN 37922
I primarily use a combination of evidence based treatment approaches such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR Therapy to deliver a unique and personalized approach to therapy.
Although my background is in trauma, I have clinical experience and training in assisting all people in dealing with the variety of life struggles. We all face different challenges in life and respond to them in our own ways. As such, each approach in treatment should be unique and person centered. My goal is to help each person along their journey in processing and overcoming their unique challenges so that they can thrive on their own.
I primarily use a combination of evidence based treatment approaches such as Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR Therapy to deliver a unique and personalized approach to therapy.
Although my background is in trauma, I have clinical experience and training in assisting all people in dealing with the variety of life struggles. We all face different challenges in life and respond to them in our own ways. As such, each approach in treatment should be unique and person centered. My goal is to help each person along their journey in processing and overcoming their unique challenges so that they can thrive on their own.
(865) 505-8113 View (865) 505-8113
Photo of Susan Stirewalt, LPC, MHSP, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Susan Stirewalt
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, NCC
Verified Verified
Knoxville, TN 37909
Susan is an EMDR-trained clinician (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy) and has a certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in TN and National Certified Counselor (NCC). She specializes in treating individuals with anxiety, complex trauma, and managing stress and relationship issues. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the Townsend Institute, where she studied the Competence & Character Growth Model, integrating the latest in neuroscience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions with a foundation of Christian faith and Biblical principles.
Susan is an EMDR-trained clinician (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy) and has a certification in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Susan is a Licensed Professional Counselor - Mental Health Service Provider (LPC-MHSP) in TN and National Certified Counselor (NCC). She specializes in treating individuals with anxiety, complex trauma, and managing stress and relationship issues. She earned her Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at the Townsend Institute, where she studied the Competence & Character Growth Model, integrating the latest in neuroscience and evidence-based therapeutic interventions with a foundation of Christian faith and Biblical principles.
(865) 276-8921 View (865) 276-8921
Photo of Summer Ahmed, MSW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Summer Ahmed
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Johnson City, TN 37601
Specializing in holistic practices of EMDR, mindfulness, bodywork, and inner child connection, I can provide personalized support for trauma healing, stress reduction, and self-discovery.
Are you someone who is grappling with life’s struggles, seeking to untangle the knots of anxiety and self-doubt, and yearning for a deeper connection with your authentic self? Someone who's endured trauma, from childhood, relationships, or life events, burdened by unresolved emotions and limiting beliefs. Your goal is not just to heal wounds but to emerge stronger, more resilient, and empowered to live a fulfilling life. You want to break free from the chains of your past, reclaim inner peace, and step into a future filled with purpose and joy. Seeking understanding, validation, and compassionate guidance, you aim to feel empowered.
Specializing in holistic practices of EMDR, mindfulness, bodywork, and inner child connection, I can provide personalized support for trauma healing, stress reduction, and self-discovery.
Are you someone who is grappling with life’s struggles, seeking to untangle the knots of anxiety and self-doubt, and yearning for a deeper connection with your authentic self? Someone who's endured trauma, from childhood, relationships, or life events, burdened by unresolved emotions and limiting beliefs. Your goal is not just to heal wounds but to emerge stronger, more resilient, and empowered to live a fulfilling life. You want to break free from the chains of your past, reclaim inner peace, and step into a future filled with purpose and joy. Seeking understanding, validation, and compassionate guidance, you aim to feel empowered.
(423) 537-6521 View (423) 537-6521

See more therapy options for Jefferson City

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.