EMDR Therapists in Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN
Molly Soper Yates
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize evidence based and trauma informed tools such as CBT, EMDR, IFS and mindfulness for body-mind regulation and the support of spiritual exploration.
Accepting new clients in Tennessee. I'm glad you're reaching out and hope we can work together. I've been an LCSW for 28 years and genuinely love connecting with people to develop skills that find greater stability, serenity and internal strength. Emphasizing strengths and resilience, while understanding larger patterns, working through trauma and developing skills to reduce anxiety, emotional reactions, relationship breakdown, substance abuse and overwhelm. I love building relationships with people to learn practices that can change self defeating patterns and live in a way that is more life giving, open, balanced and stable.
I utilize evidence based and trauma informed tools such as CBT, EMDR, IFS and mindfulness for body-mind regulation and the support of spiritual exploration.
Accepting new clients in Tennessee. I'm glad you're reaching out and hope we can work together. I've been an LCSW for 28 years and genuinely love connecting with people to develop skills that find greater stability, serenity and internal strength. Emphasizing strengths and resilience, while understanding larger patterns, working through trauma and developing skills to reduce anxiety, emotional reactions, relationship breakdown, substance abuse and overwhelm. I love building relationships with people to learn practices that can change self defeating patterns and live in a way that is more life giving, open, balanced and stable.
Apart from the relational style that I typically employ in individual therapy, I am EMDR-trained and SomEx Level II trained.
As your therapist, I will offer you presence, focused attention and a collaborative effort to understand and make meaning of your inner life and conflicts. Together, we will work to bring about the changes necessary to empower you to live authentically, with purpose, and to achieve your full potential. I tend to work well with individuals who see their mental health as a journey or who are motivated to understand and work through the underlying causes of their difficulties in longer-term therapeutic relationships.
Apart from the relational style that I typically employ in individual therapy, I am EMDR-trained and SomEx Level II trained.
As your therapist, I will offer you presence, focused attention and a collaborative effort to understand and make meaning of your inner life and conflicts. Together, we will work to bring about the changes necessary to empower you to live authentically, with purpose, and to achieve your full potential. I tend to work well with individuals who see their mental health as a journey or who are motivated to understand and work through the underlying causes of their difficulties in longer-term therapeutic relationships.
Irena Stjepic
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
I combine Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR therapy with Safe and Sound Protocol and Neurofeedback, offering a comprehensive, body-mind approach that addresses trauma from multiple angles.
Unlock Healing with Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR Therapy. Are you struggling with current or past pain and discomfort? I specialize in Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR therapy, combining body-mind techniques to support healing. I also integrate the Safe and Sound Protocol and Neurofeedback into my practice. As a Certified EMDR Therapist and Approved Consultant, I work with young adults (16+) and adults facing recent trauma, Complex PTSD from unhealed childhood experiences, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depressive disorders, medical trauma, and more.
I combine Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR therapy with Safe and Sound Protocol and Neurofeedback, offering a comprehensive, body-mind approach that addresses trauma from multiple angles.
Unlock Healing with Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR Therapy. Are you struggling with current or past pain and discomfort? I specialize in Somatic Attachment-Focused EMDR therapy, combining body-mind techniques to support healing. I also integrate the Safe and Sound Protocol and Neurofeedback into my practice. As a Certified EMDR Therapist and Approved Consultant, I work with young adults (16+) and adults facing recent trauma, Complex PTSD from unhealed childhood experiences, anxiety, bipolar disorder, depressive disorders, medical trauma, and more.
Stephen Navyac
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
Certified in EMDR to treat trauma issues.
I work with individuals and couples and families who seek to improve their communication, intimacy and overall health in their own lives and relationships. I offer respectful, non-shaming, honest and insightful help for interacting with others in romantic, social and work environments. I have compassion, wisdom and insights for those that have experienced trauma, addiction, blurred boundaries and all levels (too much, or lack) of emotions in their upbringing, and current life situations and relationships. Life can be stressful, I offer tools and insights to help you navigate challenges.
Certified in EMDR to treat trauma issues.
I work with individuals and couples and families who seek to improve their communication, intimacy and overall health in their own lives and relationships. I offer respectful, non-shaming, honest and insightful help for interacting with others in romantic, social and work environments. I have compassion, wisdom and insights for those that have experienced trauma, addiction, blurred boundaries and all levels (too much, or lack) of emotions in their upbringing, and current life situations and relationships. Life can be stressful, I offer tools and insights to help you navigate challenges.
Helen Tarleton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, Ed, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
I'm EMDR-trained, a Certified Mental Health Integrative Practitioner, & utilize psychodynamic, intersubjective, and methods influenced by Eastern Psychology.
I have 30+ years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and couples overcome challenges, heal from painful experiences, repair relationships, and ultimately thrive. I bring thoughtfulness, curiosity, and respect to each interaction with my clients, as I deeply understand the importance of a compassionate therapeutic relationship for successful outcomes in therapy.
I'm EMDR-trained, a Certified Mental Health Integrative Practitioner, & utilize psychodynamic, intersubjective, and methods influenced by Eastern Psychology.
I have 30+ years of experience helping adults, adolescents, and couples overcome challenges, heal from painful experiences, repair relationships, and ultimately thrive. I bring thoughtfulness, curiosity, and respect to each interaction with my clients, as I deeply understand the importance of a compassionate therapeutic relationship for successful outcomes in therapy.
Jazzmin Cohen Psyd
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
My specialties are focused on Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) which is a therapeutic approach used to relieve the distress caused by traumatic experiences or memories.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples on various issues. Some of the specific areas I excel at are with clients looking to conquer life's obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. During our time together, I will create a supportive environment and assist you in establishing goals and skills needed to achieve your desired lifestyle.
My specialties are focused on Client-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) which is a therapeutic approach used to relieve the distress caused by traumatic experiences or memories.
I work with adults, adolescents, and couples on various issues. Some of the specific areas I excel at are with clients looking to conquer life's obstacles caused by trauma, anxiety, depression, eating disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder. During our time together, I will create a supportive environment and assist you in establishing goals and skills needed to achieve your desired lifestyle.
Brian T Murphy
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
I am certified in EMDR and Trauma-Sensitive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), both of which I frequently use to help clients process and heal from trauma.
I am passionate about offering the best therapy experience possible by meeting clients where they are and drawing from a variety of approaches depending on the unique needs of each individual. I work with clients facing a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, spirituality concerns, gender issues, LGBTQIA concerns, chronic pain, relationship challenges, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), sexual abuse (adult), grief and mourning, professional burnout, attachment disorders, addiction and anger management.
I am certified in EMDR and Trauma-Sensitive Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), both of which I frequently use to help clients process and heal from trauma.
I am passionate about offering the best therapy experience possible by meeting clients where they are and drawing from a variety of approaches depending on the unique needs of each individual. I work with clients facing a wide range of difficulties, including anxiety, depression, self-esteem issues, spirituality concerns, gender issues, LGBTQIA concerns, chronic pain, relationship challenges, post-traumatic stress (PTSD), sexual abuse (adult), grief and mourning, professional burnout, attachment disorders, addiction and anger management.
Dr. Alissa Beuerlein
Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
I am trained in EMDR and have an appreciation for it for clients who are interested.
I have had the privilege of helping many different people through a range of different issues. I am well versed with complex trauma, anxiety, PTSD, depression, donor conceived people, adoptees, and other issues.
I am trained in EMDR and have an appreciation for it for clients who are interested.
I have had the privilege of helping many different people through a range of different issues. I am well versed with complex trauma, anxiety, PTSD, depression, donor conceived people, adoptees, and other issues.
Skye Clark
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, LCPC
Verified Verified
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212 (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR therapy, a tool that helps people recover from trauma and distressing life experiences.
Therapy is about having a safe space to process. You deserve to have a safe space where you feel accepted. You can have a life full of abundance, peace, and joy. Life may be more overwhelming than you could ever imagine. I get it! We will work together to identify sources of stress, difficult emotions, & limiting thoughts and behavior patterns in order to develop resources for more satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy in your life. My goal is to be deeply present with your experiences in order to help you become more expansive, self- aware, confident, and validated so that you can find your path that leads to your most authentic self.
I am trained in EMDR therapy, a tool that helps people recover from trauma and distressing life experiences.
Therapy is about having a safe space to process. You deserve to have a safe space where you feel accepted. You can have a life full of abundance, peace, and joy. Life may be more overwhelming than you could ever imagine. I get it! We will work together to identify sources of stress, difficult emotions, & limiting thoughts and behavior patterns in order to develop resources for more satisfaction, fulfillment, and joy in your life. My goal is to be deeply present with your experiences in order to help you become more expansive, self- aware, confident, and validated so that you can find your path that leads to your most authentic self.
Trauma Therapy of Nashville
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
Modalities include, EMDR, Brainspotting, EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Art Therapy, DBT, Trauma Informed Yoga and more! Melanie Reese also provides Group and Individual Supervision for MFT's & LPC's seeking licensure.
CURRENT AVAILABILITY!! Trauma Therapy of Nashville is currently accepting new clients! Our therapists are highly skilled to work with trauma and integrative in their work with clients. Using evidenced-based and holistic therapy methods, clients receive an integrative treatment approach that is tailored to their individual needs. We would love to connect with you! Contact our Client Care Coordinator, Jenna, at Admin@TraumaTherapyNashville.com.
Modalities include, EMDR, Brainspotting, EFT (Emotionally Focused Therapy), Art Therapy, DBT, Trauma Informed Yoga and more! Melanie Reese also provides Group and Individual Supervision for MFT's & LPC's seeking licensure.
CURRENT AVAILABILITY!! Trauma Therapy of Nashville is currently accepting new clients! Our therapists are highly skilled to work with trauma and integrative in their work with clients. Using evidenced-based and holistic therapy methods, clients receive an integrative treatment approach that is tailored to their individual needs. We would love to connect with you! Contact our Client Care Coordinator, Jenna, at Admin@TraumaTherapyNashville.com.
Will Radford Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
I offer traditional CRM, DBT, CBT and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field of behavioral health for many years. My formal education is a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s in Clinical Social Work. I am trained in CRM, EMDR, DBT, CBT (described in services and website) and have worked in the addictions field for over 30 years. My experience includes working with adolescents, couples, families and individuals dealing with issues from addiction to anxiety and depression. I normally work with people 18 and older but in the right circumstance will see younger. I see families and couples. I also offer Recovery Coaching.
I offer traditional CRM, DBT, CBT and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field of behavioral health for many years. My formal education is a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s in Clinical Social Work. I am trained in CRM, EMDR, DBT, CBT (described in services and website) and have worked in the addictions field for over 30 years. My experience includes working with adolescents, couples, families and individuals dealing with issues from addiction to anxiety and depression. I normally work with people 18 and older but in the right circumstance will see younger. I see families and couples. I also offer Recovery Coaching.
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Ellen Wilkins Counseling and Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
Waitlist for new clients
My techniques include mindfulness, EMDR, and Emotionally Focused therapy.
Are you struggling with a difficult, significant person in your life? Do you stuff your feelings, trying to keep the peace then, in frustration, overreact? I have a passion for healthy relationships and believe a strong, therapeutic relationship can provide the context for transformative healing & growth. I work well with people who feel stuck in the way they handle conflict-either avoiding it or repeating unhealthy patterns or behaviors. I can help you expand your awareness about how the past is effecting the present so you can respond to those you love without losing yourself.
My techniques include mindfulness, EMDR, and Emotionally Focused therapy.
Are you struggling with a difficult, significant person in your life? Do you stuff your feelings, trying to keep the peace then, in frustration, overreact? I have a passion for healthy relationships and believe a strong, therapeutic relationship can provide the context for transformative healing & growth. I work well with people who feel stuck in the way they handle conflict-either avoiding it or repeating unhealthy patterns or behaviors. I can help you expand your awareness about how the past is effecting the present so you can respond to those you love without losing yourself.
Julie F Mangus
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCMHSP, MS, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
I'm trained in EMDR Levels I & II, Brainspotting Level I & II, Internal Family Systems and The Gottman Method.
I believe that WE are in charge of the story we tell ourselves about the world around us...we get to decide. I use an eclectic, integrative approach to personalize therapy to fit your needs. I view it a privilege to join with you on your journey towards healing, growth & relief from whatever struggle you are facing. I aim to balance encouragement & support with effective therapy; working to help you remove the wreckage standing in your way. Life is tough enough & sometimes we need someone to help us regain our strength & confidence, and help us get back on track.
I'm trained in EMDR Levels I & II, Brainspotting Level I & II, Internal Family Systems and The Gottman Method.
I believe that WE are in charge of the story we tell ourselves about the world around us...we get to decide. I use an eclectic, integrative approach to personalize therapy to fit your needs. I view it a privilege to join with you on your journey towards healing, growth & relief from whatever struggle you are facing. I aim to balance encouragement & support with effective therapy; working to help you remove the wreckage standing in your way. Life is tough enough & sometimes we need someone to help us regain our strength & confidence, and help us get back on track.
Abby Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
My approach is based in attachment theory and utilizes EMDR, mindful self-compassion, and cognitive-based interventions including ACT and DBT.
Hi, I’m Abby. I help people find ways of moving through pain more effectively and wholeheartedly. Experience working with psychiatric crises and severe & persistent mental illness taught me that presence and connection are possible amid deep emotional pain and the human capacity for meaningful change is remarkable. “You know that the antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest? … The antidote to exhaustion is wholeheartedness.” - David Whyte
My approach is based in attachment theory and utilizes EMDR, mindful self-compassion, and cognitive-based interventions including ACT and DBT.
Hi, I’m Abby. I help people find ways of moving through pain more effectively and wholeheartedly. Experience working with psychiatric crises and severe & persistent mental illness taught me that presence and connection are possible amid deep emotional pain and the human capacity for meaningful change is remarkable. “You know that the antidote to exhaustion is not necessarily rest? … The antidote to exhaustion is wholeheartedness.” - David Whyte
Gena Leone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
Using evidenced-based interventions like, CBT, DBT, Brainspotting and EMDR, you will gain insight and practical tools that can create immediate relief and freedom.
NOW accepting new clients! You ask yourself, "will it ever stop?" The racing thoughts, the paralyzing self-doubt and the overwhelm. You’re easily triggered. It feels like you're on an emotional roller coaster. That intrusive voice is telling you that you’re not enough—you’ll never measure up. Perfectionism and procrastination keep you stuck. You find yourself in an unfulfilling job or relationship yet again. You long for connection, but are afraid of rejection. You seek comfort with alcohol, food, social media, work or shopping, but the feelings keep coming back.
Using evidenced-based interventions like, CBT, DBT, Brainspotting and EMDR, you will gain insight and practical tools that can create immediate relief and freedom.
NOW accepting new clients! You ask yourself, "will it ever stop?" The racing thoughts, the paralyzing self-doubt and the overwhelm. You’re easily triggered. It feels like you're on an emotional roller coaster. That intrusive voice is telling you that you’re not enough—you’ll never measure up. Perfectionism and procrastination keep you stuck. You find yourself in an unfulfilling job or relationship yet again. You long for connection, but are afraid of rejection. You seek comfort with alcohol, food, social media, work or shopping, but the feelings keep coming back.
Hannah Peterson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
I have experience using CBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, ACT, DBT, Brainspotting, EMDR, and Sandplay Therapy.
Whether a client is someone brand new to therapy, someone with previous negative experiences in therapy, or someone who is ready to begin therapy again, my goal as a counselor is to meet them where they are. I have experience working with clients from a wide range of ages, gender, background, and areas of concern.
I have experience using CBT, Motivational Interviewing, IFS, ACT, DBT, Brainspotting, EMDR, and Sandplay Therapy.
Whether a client is someone brand new to therapy, someone with previous negative experiences in therapy, or someone who is ready to begin therapy again, my goal as a counselor is to meet them where they are. I have experience working with clients from a wide range of ages, gender, background, and areas of concern.
Marissa Stone
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
Waitlist for new clients
I am formally trained in EMDR, Attachment, Self Regulation, and Competency (ARC), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Life stressors and trauma can impact our lives in unexpected ways and reaching out for support takes courage. I value collaborating with individuals to curate space for their healing journey. As a therapist, I am committed to establishing an environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. I practice from a trauma informed, relational, and anti-oppressive perspective and believe that each person's journey is unique and deserving of respect. My approach is rooted in an appreciation for the diverse backgrounds and identities that each person brings to the therapeutic relationship.
I am formally trained in EMDR, Attachment, Self Regulation, and Competency (ARC), and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT).
Life stressors and trauma can impact our lives in unexpected ways and reaching out for support takes courage. I value collaborating with individuals to curate space for their healing journey. As a therapist, I am committed to establishing an environment where you can explore your thoughts, emotions, and experiences without judgment. I practice from a trauma informed, relational, and anti-oppressive perspective and believe that each person's journey is unique and deserving of respect. My approach is rooted in an appreciation for the diverse backgrounds and identities that each person brings to the therapeutic relationship.
Marlena S McClure
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, LADACII, QCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
Therapy may include a combination of experiential, EMDR, mindfulness, parts work, and/or solution-focused therapy.
Whether you are new to therapy and/or recovery, or are struggling with new obstacles or relapse, welcome. Sometimes part of us wants to make a change and part of us holds us back. Sometimes we can connect the dots to our past and sometimes it feels less clear why we feel and react the way we do. When we are feeling stuck, we can feel feel anxious, overwhelmed, disoriented or uncertain. Know it is possible to move through the discomfort and regain our sense of empowerment. Our process may feel at times like a struggle but we don't have to go through it alone.
Therapy may include a combination of experiential, EMDR, mindfulness, parts work, and/or solution-focused therapy.
Whether you are new to therapy and/or recovery, or are struggling with new obstacles or relapse, welcome. Sometimes part of us wants to make a change and part of us holds us back. Sometimes we can connect the dots to our past and sometimes it feels less clear why we feel and react the way we do. When we are feeling stuck, we can feel feel anxious, overwhelmed, disoriented or uncertain. Know it is possible to move through the discomfort and regain our sense of empowerment. Our process may feel at times like a struggle but we don't have to go through it alone.
Jessie Risman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
I am passionate about the heart and deeply committed to seeing you live more fully by engaging yours. Because your needs are as unique and valuable as your story, my therapy is grounded in Person-Centered Theory. I trust you to be the expert on your own life, and thus the expert in the room. My approach to therapy is integrative and trauma-informed. While drawing from Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR and Play and Expressive Arts Therapy, my focus remains on the most powerful tool, the relationship. From my own healing journey, I have come to believe we're wounded in the context of relationship, and we heal in relationship, too.
I am passionate about the heart and deeply committed to seeing you live more fully by engaging yours. Because your needs are as unique and valuable as your story, my therapy is grounded in Person-Centered Theory. I trust you to be the expert on your own life, and thus the expert in the room. My approach to therapy is integrative and trauma-informed. While drawing from Somatic and Attachment Focused EMDR and Play and Expressive Arts Therapy, my focus remains on the most powerful tool, the relationship. From my own healing journey, I have come to believe we're wounded in the context of relationship, and we heal in relationship, too.
Maddie Boerste
Licensed Professional Counselor, (temp), MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville, TN 37212
I utilize the Healing Our Core Issues model in partnership with EMDR to achieve that goal.
I consider it a privilege to enter into every therapeutic relationship with an open mind and flexibility. You are the author of your story and it’s an honor to partner with you. With that being said, your unique experience requires an individualized approach. Whether you're walking through grief, anxiety, depression, or exploring your identity as a whole, your goals will evolve as you grow and it is important for your therapeutic journey to shift alongside them in order to achieve them and maximize your time. While symptoms may look the same, I never look at two individuals as identical and love to approach each new client afresh.
I utilize the Healing Our Core Issues model in partnership with EMDR to achieve that goal.
I consider it a privilege to enter into every therapeutic relationship with an open mind and flexibility. You are the author of your story and it’s an honor to partner with you. With that being said, your unique experience requires an individualized approach. Whether you're walking through grief, anxiety, depression, or exploring your identity as a whole, your goals will evolve as you grow and it is important for your therapeutic journey to shift alongside them in order to achieve them and maximize your time. While symptoms may look the same, I never look at two individuals as identical and love to approach each new client afresh.
See more therapy options for Bellmont Hillsboro, Nashville
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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.