EMDR Therapists in Shelby County, TN

Photo of Jasmine A Sullivan, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jasmine A Sullivan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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
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Photo of Kristi Nobbman Dunaway, PhD, NCC, LPC (t), Counselor
Kristi Nobbman Dunaway
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LPC (t)
Verified Verified
Cordova, TN 38018
I am trained in Perinatal Mental Health, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), grief/bereavement, and teletherapy.
Life transitions can be difficult and dysregulating. Clients typically come in feeling overwhelmed or numb to what is going on in their life. Other clients feel stuck because of a past or recent trauma. My clients are open to exploring the mind-body connection as we collaboratively work together to find what works for them to create stability and joy in their everyday lives.
I am trained in Perinatal Mental Health, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), grief/bereavement, and teletherapy.
Life transitions can be difficult and dysregulating. Clients typically come in feeling overwhelmed or numb to what is going on in their life. Other clients feel stuck because of a past or recent trauma. My clients are open to exploring the mind-body connection as we collaboratively work together to find what works for them to create stability and joy in their everyday lives.
(901) 329-3711 View (901) 329-3711
Photo of Paul M. Berkes, MA, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Paul M. Berkes
Counselor, MA, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bartlett, TN 38134
Paul has extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and provides DBT adherent therapy as well as trauma-focused therapies including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Paul has been a licensed professional counselor since 2012 with over 20 years experience working in mental health treatment centers. Paul works with a variety of counseling issues that include: pervasive developmental conditions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief as well as identity development. In many cases, Paul provides an experiential counseling experience that includes expressive arts and music therapies. Paul provides counseling services within a Christian context.
Paul has extensive training in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and provides DBT adherent therapy as well as trauma-focused therapies including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Paul has been a licensed professional counselor since 2012 with over 20 years experience working in mental health treatment centers. Paul works with a variety of counseling issues that include: pervasive developmental conditions, trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief as well as identity development. In many cases, Paul provides an experiential counseling experience that includes expressive arts and music therapies. Paul provides counseling services within a Christian context.
(901) 878-9928 View (901) 878-9928
Photo of Amy Balentine - Memphis Center for Mindful Living, LLC, PhD, Psychologist
Memphis Center for Mindful Living, LLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
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.
(901) 245-5285 View (901) 245-5285
Photo of Ebony Bailey Lpc Mhsp, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Ebony Bailey Lpc Mhsp
Counselor, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38120  (Online Only)
I offer Cognitive Processing Therapy and EMDR to assist individuals with reducing symptoms associated with trauma.
I enjoy working with individuals who are at a crossroads in life. Whose goal is to move through life’s challenges. My ideal clients are those who are dealing with anxiety, adverse childhood experiences, codependency, communication, depression, life transitions, relationship stress, self-defeating beliefs, stress & traumatic experiences. Who are currently desiring support, balance & peace, but certain blocks have gotten in the way of finding enjoyment in life. Overtime, these blocks have disrupted your state of balance. Calming the nervous system is the foundation for this process. Choosing to invest in yourself is where you begin.
I offer Cognitive Processing Therapy and EMDR to assist individuals with reducing symptoms associated with trauma.
I enjoy working with individuals who are at a crossroads in life. Whose goal is to move through life’s challenges. My ideal clients are those who are dealing with anxiety, adverse childhood experiences, codependency, communication, depression, life transitions, relationship stress, self-defeating beliefs, stress & traumatic experiences. Who are currently desiring support, balance & peace, but certain blocks have gotten in the way of finding enjoyment in life. Overtime, these blocks have disrupted your state of balance. Calming the nervous system is the foundation for this process. Choosing to invest in yourself is where you begin.
(901) 881-7843 View (901) 881-7843
Photo of Jennifer Phillips, LCSW, LISW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Germantown, TN 38138
I provide EMDR and also have advanced training in Attachment Focused EMDR.
Making the decision to seek therapy is one of the bravest steps you can take. It requires great courage to change, and keeping that in mind, I feel honored to assist you in taking that step. I have extensive experience working with both adolescents and adults on a wide range of issues, and I welcome diversity in my clients. I believe in providing a warm, supportive, judgement free environment for the therapy process, and I use a variety of therapeutic approaches based on your specific needs.
I provide EMDR and also have advanced training in Attachment Focused EMDR.
Making the decision to seek therapy is one of the bravest steps you can take. It requires great courage to change, and keeping that in mind, I feel honored to assist you in taking that step. I have extensive experience working with both adolescents and adults on a wide range of issues, and I welcome diversity in my clients. I believe in providing a warm, supportive, judgement free environment for the therapy process, and I use a variety of therapeutic approaches based on your specific needs.
(901) 612-2472 View (901) 612-2472
Photo of Jill Hampton - Jill Hampton, LPC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill Hampton, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Germantown, TN 38138
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! I'm Jill. I received my masters in counseling from the University of Memphis in 2009. I have been practicing since that time. I am experienced with anxiety, depression, trauma work and eating disorders. I am trained in EMDR and very experienced with the treatment of eating disorders, as I have worked at various levels of care. Please note my doodle Maisie is being trained and will join us as an emotional support pup in the office once she is ready. Thus for your safety, NO dog allergies.
Hi! I'm Jill. I received my masters in counseling from the University of Memphis in 2009. I have been practicing since that time. I am experienced with anxiety, depression, trauma work and eating disorders. I am trained in EMDR and very experienced with the treatment of eating disorders, as I have worked at various levels of care. Please note my doodle Maisie is being trained and will join us as an emotional support pup in the office once she is ready. Thus for your safety, NO dog allergies.
(901) 881-4899 View (901) 881-4899
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 Sandra Anne Hobson, MS, LPC, Counselor
Sandra Anne Hobson
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104
I am trained in somatic techniques, hypnosis and EMDR.
Do you work too much but don't feel like you do enough? Can't leave the office? Find it hard to relax in healthy ways? Do you have dreams? What did you want to do when you were a little kid? Have you met your goals for yourself? Do you have nightmares? Rigid behaviors you would like to change? I can help you to understand yourself better. In doing so you can learn to access your internal powers to make changes in your life. I can help you discover and affirm your unique self.
I am trained in somatic techniques, hypnosis and EMDR.
Do you work too much but don't feel like you do enough? Can't leave the office? Find it hard to relax in healthy ways? Do you have dreams? What did you want to do when you were a little kid? Have you met your goals for yourself? Do you have nightmares? Rigid behaviors you would like to change? I can help you to understand yourself better. In doing so you can learn to access your internal powers to make changes in your life. I can help you discover and affirm your unique self.
(901) 878-3207 View (901) 878-3207
Photo of George Tsirgiotis, MSEd, MAR, LMFT, LPCMHSP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
George Tsirgiotis
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, MAR, LMFT, LPCMHSP, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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.
(901) 458-6291 View (901) 458-6291
Photo of Candace Hadley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Candace Hadley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Millington, TN 38053  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Candace Hadley, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Mindfulness, Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). I have provided services in numerous settings and serve children/families, teenagers, and adults.
Hi, I am Candace Hadley, Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Mindfulness, Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR). I have provided services in numerous settings and serve children/families, teenagers, and adults.
(901) 445-6639 View (901) 445-6639
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 Angie Hurlow, MS, NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Angie Hurlow
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Cordova, TN 38018
I am trained in ERP, IFS, and EMDR.
My training and experience grant me the skills to walk alongside as you learn to relieve anxiety and OCD, recover from an eating disorder, and resolve trauma. I am well-versed in various presentations of anxiety and can support healing through education and experiential triumph. I have worked with eating disorders and trauma at high levels of care for adults and adolescents.
I am trained in ERP, IFS, and EMDR.
My training and experience grant me the skills to walk alongside as you learn to relieve anxiety and OCD, recover from an eating disorder, and resolve trauma. I am well-versed in various presentations of anxiety and can support healing through education and experiential triumph. I have worked with eating disorders and trauma at high levels of care for adults and adolescents.
(901) 665-0977 View (901) 665-0977
Photo of Shelly L Wilkerson, PhD,  MS, MHSP, CSP-S, CSAT-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Shelly L Wilkerson
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, MS, MHSP, CSP-S, CSAT-C
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38104
I have additional training in the areas of grief, breath work, and EMDR, as well as certification through the Consortium on Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) as an AAT therapist.
I believe connection to self & others is central to human life. As a result, I prioritize cultivating a secure, therapeutic relationship characterized by safety, authenticity, & consistency. From this base, I have the honor of supporting clients as they foster a deep level of restoration & growth. I have worked with a variety of individuals across multiple settings, guiding them on a healing journey from familial/relational dysfunction, grief/loss, attachment wounds, & various forms of dependency (chemical & process), among other things.
I have additional training in the areas of grief, breath work, and EMDR, as well as certification through the Consortium on Animal-Assisted Therapy (AAT) as an AAT therapist.
I believe connection to self & others is central to human life. As a result, I prioritize cultivating a secure, therapeutic relationship characterized by safety, authenticity, & consistency. From this base, I have the honor of supporting clients as they foster a deep level of restoration & growth. I have worked with a variety of individuals across multiple settings, guiding them on a healing journey from familial/relational dysfunction, grief/loss, attachment wounds, & various forms of dependency (chemical & process), among other things.
(901) 403-7718 View (901) 403-7718
Photo of Susanna Thompson, LPC, MHSP, (Temp), NCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Susanna Thompson
Pre-Licensed Professional, LPC, MHSP, (Temp), NCC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
I specialize in client centered care through the use of Emotional Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR.
I am on mission to provide hope and healing for women, of all ages, who have experienced trauma including: childhood emotional neglect, attachment wounds, abuse, toxic relationships, traumatic experience, and sexual betrayal trauma.
I specialize in client centered care through the use of Emotional Focused Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR.
I am on mission to provide hope and healing for women, of all ages, who have experienced trauma including: childhood emotional neglect, attachment wounds, abuse, toxic relationships, traumatic experience, and sexual betrayal trauma.
(901) 446-2128 View (901) 446-2128
Photo of LeAnn Farris, LPC, MHSP, (temp), NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LeAnn Farris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP, (temp), NCC
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38119
I have a passion for providing guidance and support to teens and adults who want to experience hope, healing, and growth in life. I am trained in EMDR therapy, which is a psychotherapy technique that helps individuals process through and work towards freedom from anxiety, grief, OCD, codependence, and past physical, sexual, and emotional trauma. I am committed to helping people explore their emotions, manage stress and anxiety, build healthy relationships, and heal from trauma.
I have a passion for providing guidance and support to teens and adults who want to experience hope, healing, and growth in life. I am trained in EMDR therapy, which is a psychotherapy technique that helps individuals process through and work towards freedom from anxiety, grief, OCD, codependence, and past physical, sexual, and emotional trauma. I am committed to helping people explore their emotions, manage stress and anxiety, build healthy relationships, and heal from trauma.
(901) 582-8117 View (901) 582-8117
Photo of Fredrick Gillam Jr., LPC, MHSP-S, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Fredrick Gillam Jr.
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MHSP-S, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
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.
(901) 877-2469 View (901) 877-2469
Photo of Roslyn Postlewaite, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roslyn Postlewaite
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Memphis, TN 38120
I am trained in EMDR.
Have you been feeling like something is wrong but you cannot pinpoint why? Do you find that you hid behind your accomplishments and don’t feel like you know yourself fully? Do you feel emotionally burnt out and not sure how to begin to take care of yourself? Do you often feel stressed, lack balance, and don’t know who you can talk to about it? I think I can help you! I believe everyone deserves to feel heard, seen ​, and understood so that they can be confident in who they are, what they want ​to do, and ultimately who they want to be. Therapy can be your first step to FEELING better and SEEING ​ better.
I am trained in EMDR.
Have you been feeling like something is wrong but you cannot pinpoint why? Do you find that you hid behind your accomplishments and don’t feel like you know yourself fully? Do you feel emotionally burnt out and not sure how to begin to take care of yourself? Do you often feel stressed, lack balance, and don’t know who you can talk to about it? I think I can help you! I believe everyone deserves to feel heard, seen ​, and understood so that they can be confident in who they are, what they want ​to do, and ultimately who they want to be. Therapy can be your first step to FEELING better and SEEING ​ better.
(901) 459-5649 View (901) 459-5649
Photo of Peter Longoria, MS, LPC, MHSP, (Temp), NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Peter Longoria
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, MHSP, (Temp), NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Memphis, TN 38119
Through trauma informed counseling and EMDR, we'll explore your story with compassion and curiosity, taking time to explore how the past effects your present, and learning resources that allow you to move beyond your past.
I specialize in helping adults who are struggling with trauma, adverse experiences, codependency, and anxiety to find healing and freedom by establishing healthy boundaries and self-compassion, enabling them to live more fully and authentically. I am passionate about helping people overcome these obstacles in their lives that just get in the way. I want to help you find healing and freedom, whether it be from relational issues, grief, anxiety, experiences of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma, adverse life experiences, loneliness, depression, shame, compulsive unwanted behaviors, and anything else.
Through trauma informed counseling and EMDR, we'll explore your story with compassion and curiosity, taking time to explore how the past effects your present, and learning resources that allow you to move beyond your past.
I specialize in helping adults who are struggling with trauma, adverse experiences, codependency, and anxiety to find healing and freedom by establishing healthy boundaries and self-compassion, enabling them to live more fully and authentically. I am passionate about helping people overcome these obstacles in their lives that just get in the way. I want to help you find healing and freedom, whether it be from relational issues, grief, anxiety, experiences of physical, emotional, or sexual trauma, adverse life experiences, loneliness, depression, shame, compulsive unwanted behaviors, and anything else.
(901) 621-8628 View (901) 621-8628
Photo of Paul M Dunaway, PhD, LPC, MHSP, CCMHC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paul M Dunaway
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, MHSP, CCMHC, CRC
Verified Verified
Cordova, TN 38018
I am trained in EMDR and animal assisted therapy, as well as traditional modes of therapy.
Change can be a difficult thing to accomplish on your own when the methods you have tried in the past have been unsuccessful. Sometimes it requires someone asking the hard questions that you have avoided or the questions you didn't know to ask yourself. If you are looking to make positive changes in your life then it may be time to enlist the help of a licensed counselor.
I am trained in EMDR and animal assisted therapy, as well as traditional modes of therapy.
Change can be a difficult thing to accomplish on your own when the methods you have tried in the past have been unsuccessful. Sometimes it requires someone asking the hard questions that you have avoided or the questions you didn't know to ask yourself. If you are looking to make positive changes in your life then it may be time to enlist the help of a licensed counselor.
(901) 446-2914 View (901) 446-2914
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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.