EMDR Therapists in East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN
Haley Alsaffar
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, NCC, ACS
Verified Verified
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38117
I am trained in EMDR, emotion focused therapy for couples and I am a perinatal mental health trained provider.
It has been shown time and again the relationship between client and counselor is the most important part of a therapy experience. It is always on my mind to ensure that our relationship remains entirely focused on you, but as a part of the collaborative duo that will become client and therapist I’m happy to share a bit about myself. Relationally, I have been described as down-to-earth, authentic and sincere and I enjoy laughing and celebrating with clients in the therapy space as well. With humility and curiosity I am eager to hear about your life experiences. Licensed in TN (license 3396) & Virginia (license 0701010748)
I am trained in EMDR, emotion focused therapy for couples and I am a perinatal mental health trained provider.
It has been shown time and again the relationship between client and counselor is the most important part of a therapy experience. It is always on my mind to ensure that our relationship remains entirely focused on you, but as a part of the collaborative duo that will become client and therapist I’m happy to share a bit about myself. Relationally, I have been described as down-to-earth, authentic and sincere and I enjoy laughing and celebrating with clients in the therapy space as well. With humility and curiosity I am eager to hear about your life experiences. Licensed in TN (license 3396) & Virginia (license 0701010748)
Natalie Pritchard
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38117
Waitlist for new clients
I meet clients where they are with compassion, curiosity, and authenticity. I am trained in Internal Family Systems Level 1 and EMDR. I work with clients through the IFS framework in order to help them explore how they became who they are today and experience relief from feeling stuck. We might be a good fit if you desire genuine connection, self-acceptance, and alleviation from unhelpful thought and behavioral patterns in a safe, non-judgmental environment. My clients often find themselves in need of exploring how past trauma from their childhood, family of origin, or relationships is impacting their present day life.
I meet clients where they are with compassion, curiosity, and authenticity. I am trained in Internal Family Systems Level 1 and EMDR. I work with clients through the IFS framework in order to help them explore how they became who they are today and experience relief from feeling stuck. We might be a good fit if you desire genuine connection, self-acceptance, and alleviation from unhelpful thought and behavioral patterns in a safe, non-judgmental environment. My clients often find themselves in need of exploring how past trauma from their childhood, family of origin, or relationships is impacting their present day life.
Brittany Wood
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38119 (Online Only)
l strive to provide a compassionate and safe space for individuals to explore their experiences and work towards healing, and I am dedicated to the well-being of my clients. Drawing upon evidence-based therapeutic approaches, I tailor my counseling sessions to meet the unique needs of each client. I believe in the power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where individuals feel empowered and supported as they navigate their healing process. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, IFS, IFT, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy.
l strive to provide a compassionate and safe space for individuals to explore their experiences and work towards healing, and I am dedicated to the well-being of my clients. Drawing upon evidence-based therapeutic approaches, I tailor my counseling sessions to meet the unique needs of each client. I believe in the power of a collaborative therapeutic relationship, where individuals feel empowered and supported as they navigate their healing process. I am trained in a variety of therapeutic approaches, including EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, IFS, IFT, Motivational Interviewing, and Person-Centered Therapy.
Clare Campbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38117
I AM currently accepting new BCBS and cash-pay clients. I prefer clients who have already had some therapy. We will dive deep into the barriers that keep you from peace. I utilize a lot of different modalities. EMDR, EFT tapping, IFS, DBT, CBT, and KAP (ketamine-assisted psychotherapy). I am a spiritual person who values that there is not one truth and I can hold space for all traditions that have love at their core.
I AM currently accepting new BCBS and cash-pay clients. I prefer clients who have already had some therapy. We will dive deep into the barriers that keep you from peace. I utilize a lot of different modalities. EMDR, EFT tapping, IFS, DBT, CBT, and KAP (ketamine-assisted psychotherapy). I am a spiritual person who values that there is not one truth and I can hold space for all traditions that have love at their core.
Heather Thomasson
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38119
Heather offers support from a client-centered perspective that includes positive affirmations, heavy emphasis on self-compassion, challenging of unhealthy thoughts, and building upon skills to allow you to live your best life. Heather has extensive training to promote trauma resolution through EMDR and TF-CBT trainings. Heather has a strong passion for working with people as they navigate both pregnancy and postpartum adjustments. She works with fertility struggles, pregnancy loss and infant loss, in addition to perinatal/postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.
Heather offers support from a client-centered perspective that includes positive affirmations, heavy emphasis on self-compassion, challenging of unhealthy thoughts, and building upon skills to allow you to live your best life. Heather has extensive training to promote trauma resolution through EMDR and TF-CBT trainings. Heather has a strong passion for working with people as they navigate both pregnancy and postpartum adjustments. She works with fertility struggles, pregnancy loss and infant loss, in addition to perinatal/postpartum mood and anxiety disorders.
Kelsey Fields Caprio
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, (Temp)
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, 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.
Kristina S Curtiss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, 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.
Rita Jorgensen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38117
Waitlist for new clients
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR to help clients address patterns keeping them stuck.
My ideal client is motivated and ready for change. I work with adults and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, eating disorders, perfectionism, self-criticism, and trauma. I offer a warm and accepting presence to help clients resolve trauma, improve their relationship with themselves, increase trust in themselves, and improve quality of life. I also offer caregiver coaching to help caregivers address love-based fears, increase caregiving efficacy, and improve their relationship with their child or loved-one, thereby improving caregiver wellbeing.
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS) and EMDR to help clients address patterns keeping them stuck.
My ideal client is motivated and ready for change. I work with adults and teens experiencing anxiety, depression, eating disorders, perfectionism, self-criticism, and trauma. I offer a warm and accepting presence to help clients resolve trauma, improve their relationship with themselves, increase trust in themselves, and improve quality of life. I also offer caregiver coaching to help caregivers address love-based fears, increase caregiving efficacy, and improve their relationship with their child or loved-one, thereby improving caregiver wellbeing.
Mary Hilgeman Neal
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP, S
Verified Verified
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, 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.
Molly K. Fleming
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, YT
Verified Verified
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38112
Mindfulness-based modalities including EMDR are central to my perspective and the support I offer.
There is no substitute for compassion in the counseling relationship. I believe in a whole-person approach. This means that everything is relevant: family of origin, unwanted life events, current relationships, physical health and well being, and everyday coping challenges. I assist my clients with life transitions, grief, early childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, chronic pain, relationship challenges, and spiritual issues. I endorse and have expertise in mindfulness-based practices and 12+ years of Hospice experience. Strengths: trusting relationships with my clients.
Mindfulness-based modalities including EMDR are central to my perspective and the support I offer.
There is no substitute for compassion in the counseling relationship. I believe in a whole-person approach. This means that everything is relevant: family of origin, unwanted life events, current relationships, physical health and well being, and everyday coping challenges. I assist my clients with life transitions, grief, early childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, chronic pain, relationship challenges, and spiritual issues. I endorse and have expertise in mindfulness-based practices and 12+ years of Hospice experience. Strengths: trusting relationships with my clients.
Jill Budynas DePriest
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38119
I work out of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, psychoanalysis, and I am trained in EMDR.
Today you took the first step in seeking help and that is a brave thing. I am honored to be one of the people you are thinking about. I am attachment and system based and healing happens when we look at all of ourselves; our whole selves and our whole family system whether born to it or finding it. Healing can happen at any age and it’s never too early or too late to work on the array of trauma and experiences that have gotten us to the point we are at. Through psychoeducation, learning better coping skills or communication skills and regulating our nervous system we can find some peace.
I work out of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, psychoanalysis, and I am trained in EMDR.
Today you took the first step in seeking help and that is a brave thing. I am honored to be one of the people you are thinking about. I am attachment and system based and healing happens when we look at all of ourselves; our whole selves and our whole family system whether born to it or finding it. Healing can happen at any age and it’s never too early or too late to work on the array of trauma and experiences that have gotten us to the point we are at. Through psychoeducation, learning better coping skills or communication skills and regulating our nervous system we can find some peace.
15 Second Videos
Clare Campbell
Channelle Johnson
Memphis Center for Mindful Living, LLC
Forward Counseling
Anne Marie Schoenherr
Jamieka Harris
Martha Ferguson Burke
Adriene Dulaney
Glen Matthew Stamps Jr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38119
I have additional trainings in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Searching for someone to help when we are struggling can be difficult and uncomfortable. I want to make that process a little bit easier by employing a non-judgmental approach to meet someone where they are. My name is Matt Stamps, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider. I believe in an empathic approach to therapy in which I work with my clients as partners to heal and recover from mental health issues. I utilize evidence-based approaches to assist clients in developing coping skills and new perspectives to improve day-to-day life.
I have additional trainings in Dialectical Behavior Therapy and Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Searching for someone to help when we are struggling can be difficult and uncomfortable. I want to make that process a little bit easier by employing a non-judgmental approach to meet someone where they are. My name is Matt Stamps, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor-Mental Health Service Provider. I believe in an empathic approach to therapy in which I work with my clients as partners to heal and recover from mental health issues. I utilize evidence-based approaches to assist clients in developing coping skills and new perspectives to improve day-to-day life.
Jasmine A Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38117
I use a mix of Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, ERP, ACT, Ecotherapy, Yoga, Somatic Processing and DBT to help them find peace with the hard stuff.
Sometimes life just gets messy. I enjoy supporting both minors and adults in finding self compassion and growth while experiencing the uncomfortable. In sessions together, we can learn to do this by navigating trauma responses, depression, anxiety, life transitions, suicidal thoughts, relationships, body-image challanges, disordered eating, behavioral issues, and stress. Through both doing my own work and spending time with clients, I wholeheartedly feel we can find so much healing by getting curious about our emotions and greeting whatever arises with kindness, respect, and a bit of humor
I use a mix of Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Mindfulness, Play Therapy, ERP, ACT, Ecotherapy, Yoga, Somatic Processing and DBT to help them find peace with the hard stuff.
Sometimes life just gets messy. I enjoy supporting both minors and adults in finding self compassion and growth while experiencing the uncomfortable. In sessions together, we can learn to do this by navigating trauma responses, depression, anxiety, life transitions, suicidal thoughts, relationships, body-image challanges, disordered eating, behavioral issues, and stress. Through both doing my own work and spending time with clients, I wholeheartedly feel we can find so much healing by getting curious about our emotions and greeting whatever arises with kindness, respect, and a bit of humor
George Tsirgiotis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, MAR, LMFT, LPCMHSP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38111
I have practiced Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) since 2009.
Many of the people that I meet in my practice are feeling "stuck" in some area of life - they can't seem to get traction in making change happen. Addictions, co-dependence, anxiety, depression, anger, poor self-image, lack of assertiveness, lack of closeness in relationships, and struggles with getting past major life traumas are many of the issues we focus on in sessions.
I have practiced Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) since 2009.
Many of the people that I meet in my practice are feeling "stuck" in some area of life - they can't seem to get traction in making change happen. Addictions, co-dependence, anxiety, depression, anger, poor self-image, lack of assertiveness, lack of closeness in relationships, and struggles with getting past major life traumas are many of the issues we focus on in sessions.
Channelle Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38119 (Online Only)
I utilize a holistic approach that incorporates CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, mindfulness, and somatic experiencing.
I work with individuals facing challenges related to trauma, addiction, and attachment. Whether you’re struggling with past experiences, seeking recovery, or navigating relationship dynamics, I’m here to support you through your journey.
I utilize a holistic approach that incorporates CBT, DBT, EMDR, IFS, mindfulness, and somatic experiencing.
I work with individuals facing challenges related to trauma, addiction, and attachment. Whether you’re struggling with past experiences, seeking recovery, or navigating relationship dynamics, I’m here to support you through your journey.
Shelby Shaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38117
My therapeutic approach is rooted in person-centered and psychodynamic methods, complemented by IFS, EMDR, and other trauma-informed modalities.
Welcome! I am a trauma and attachment based therapist dedicated to walking with those who are ready to begin their healing journey, those who want to heal but don’t know how, and those who just need someone to sit with them in the unknown. I bring an expertise to understanding and healing from eating disorders and body image issues, sexual and domestic violence, symptoms of PTSD, and childhood trauma. I place an emphasis on repairing inner child wounds and building a sense of self. I also frequently work with mood and personality disorders.
My therapeutic approach is rooted in person-centered and psychodynamic methods, complemented by IFS, EMDR, and other trauma-informed modalities.
Welcome! I am a trauma and attachment based therapist dedicated to walking with those who are ready to begin their healing journey, those who want to heal but don’t know how, and those who just need someone to sit with them in the unknown. I bring an expertise to understanding and healing from eating disorders and body image issues, sexual and domestic violence, symptoms of PTSD, and childhood trauma. I place an emphasis on repairing inner child wounds and building a sense of self. I also frequently work with mood and personality disorders.
Jeff Killion
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, (TEMP), NCC
Verified Verified
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38119
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy which can be used for many mental health issues.
This is what I believe, love God and love people and people today are indescribably busy. Busy with family, work, social schedules, social media...just keeping up with life and with all that there is little time for the individual who is often left exhausted, feeling lonely, isolated perhaps unseen. To me, loving people means meeting them where they are so they can be seen and heard. Also, I am a retired law enforcement officer of 25 years and as such I understand the unique needs of first responders, and have experience working with emergency services personnel and family members of emergency responders.
I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy which can be used for many mental health issues.
This is what I believe, love God and love people and people today are indescribably busy. Busy with family, work, social schedules, social media...just keeping up with life and with all that there is little time for the individual who is often left exhausted, feeling lonely, isolated perhaps unseen. To me, loving people means meeting them where they are so they can be seen and heard. Also, I am a retired law enforcement officer of 25 years and as such I understand the unique needs of first responders, and have experience working with emergency services personnel and family members of emergency responders.
Fredrick Gillam Jr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38119
I utilize evidence based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Trauma Therapy ( EMDR).
Challenges are a part of life. When challenges cause grief, trauma, excessive stress, sadness, anxiety, and or unmanaged anger, counseling can be an affective tool to help get you through it. If you are looking to improve your mood, build self esteem, strenghthen relationship(s), or work through problems in school or at work, Aesthetic Life Counseling Services is the resource for you.
I utilize evidence based modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and Trauma Therapy ( EMDR).
Challenges are a part of life. When challenges cause grief, trauma, excessive stress, sadness, anxiety, and or unmanaged anger, counseling can be an affective tool to help get you through it. If you are looking to improve your mood, build self esteem, strenghthen relationship(s), or work through problems in school or at work, Aesthetic Life Counseling Services is the resource for you.
Memphis Center for Mindful Living, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis, TN 38117
We also offer EMDR and IFS for trauma, mindfulness interventions, and yoga.
A genuine, trusting relationship is the essential basis for psychological healing and growth. Within that framework, we incorporate the tools and strategies for change that seem most suited to each individual's preferences, worldview and primary concerns. We believe in partnering with individuals by combining our training in evidence-based interventions with the strengths and resources they possess to best facilitate change. We believe in addressing all areas of a person's life: emotional, physical, social, and spiritual.
We also offer EMDR and IFS for trauma, mindfulness interventions, and yoga.
A genuine, trusting relationship is the essential basis for psychological healing and growth. Within that framework, we incorporate the tools and strategies for change that seem most suited to each individual's preferences, worldview and primary concerns. We believe in partnering with individuals by combining our training in evidence-based interventions with the strengths and resources they possess to best facilitate change. We believe in addressing all areas of a person's life: emotional, physical, social, and spiritual.
Caroline Schratz Lovett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, RYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, 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.
See more therapy options for East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis
Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for East Memphis-Colonial-Yorkshire, Memphis
- Binghampton
- Central Gardens
- Eastwood Manor
- Massey Hill
- Midtown
- Oakhaven
- Pleasant Acres
- River Oaks
- River Oaks-Kirby-Balmoral
- White Station
- Whitmar
- Yates
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.