EMDR Therapists in South Austin, Austin, TX

Photo of Emily O'Shea - A Way Out Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A Way Out Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Austin, Austin, TX 78748
I am versed in EMDR, DBT, Safe and Sound protocol, acudetox.
Have you ever felt stuck? Do you ever think unhelpful thoughts are controlling your life? Recovery is possible!
I am versed in EMDR, DBT, Safe and Sound protocol, acudetox.
Have you ever felt stuck? Do you ever think unhelpful thoughts are controlling your life? Recovery is possible!
(512) 229-9692 View (512) 229-9692
Photo of Brenna Ansley, MA, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brenna Ansley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78748
I am EMDR certified, and also incorporate parts work and sandtray therapy to help clients move towards their goals.
My work is relationally focused and I often utilize EMDR to help individuals resolve trauma that is being triggered in their relationships and change negative beliefs that are impacting their daily lives. I often work with individuals that are hoping to change behavior that is impacting their relationships and couples that are hoping to shift out of dynamics that are not working for them. I help individuals meet the goals that are most important to them, and I work to help improve the relationship of couples. I believe our partners can guide us to be our best selves, and show us what is unresolved for us from our history.
I am EMDR certified, and also incorporate parts work and sandtray therapy to help clients move towards their goals.
My work is relationally focused and I often utilize EMDR to help individuals resolve trauma that is being triggered in their relationships and change negative beliefs that are impacting their daily lives. I often work with individuals that are hoping to change behavior that is impacting their relationships and couples that are hoping to shift out of dynamics that are not working for them. I help individuals meet the goals that are most important to them, and I work to help improve the relationship of couples. I believe our partners can guide us to be our best selves, and show us what is unresolved for us from our history.
(512) 861-8787 View (512) 861-8787
Photo of Paige Majko, MA , LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paige Majko
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA , LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
South Austin, Austin, TX 78745  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR and Natural Processing to treat PTSD/chronic pain.
Hey I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD utilizing EMDR. I am also a spiritual medium and can help you connect with your loved ones who have passed on.
I utilize EMDR and Natural Processing to treat PTSD/chronic pain.
Hey I specialize in treating trauma/PTSD utilizing EMDR. I am also a spiritual medium and can help you connect with your loved ones who have passed on.
(832) 307-3463 View (832) 307-3463
Photo of Sarita C Molinar, LPC, ATR, ERYT200, YACEP, Art Therapist
Sarita C Molinar
Art Therapist, LPC, ATR, ERYT200, YACEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78745
I offer a holistic approach to client’s needs including EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Art therapy, Trauma Conscious Yoga Method, iRest/Yoga Nidra, LENS Neurofeedback, and Comprehensive Resource Model.
I support adolescents, adults, couples and groups in Texas and Colorado who are seeking relief with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep issues, ptsd, trauma, including generational trauma, Parts work, phobias and somatic issues. My focus is to collaborate with my clients to reach their goals of overcoming obstacles, finding comfort and peace in their lives, and relationships.
I offer a holistic approach to client’s needs including EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Art therapy, Trauma Conscious Yoga Method, iRest/Yoga Nidra, LENS Neurofeedback, and Comprehensive Resource Model.
I support adolescents, adults, couples and groups in Texas and Colorado who are seeking relief with stress, anxiety, depression, ADHD, sleep issues, ptsd, trauma, including generational trauma, Parts work, phobias and somatic issues. My focus is to collaborate with my clients to reach their goals of overcoming obstacles, finding comfort and peace in their lives, and relationships.
(512) 890-9947 View (512) 890-9947
Photo of Kevin C Eby, MA, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kevin C Eby
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78748
When working with clients I meet them where they are at in their journey for change- whether they are unsure of what in life needs to be different or if they are already maintaining progress and change. Wherever a client is starting their therapy journey I am here to help increase insight and understanding into problems and help people come up with effective ways to manage symptoms, relationships, or seasons of transition. Areas of focus I help most clients with include skills-based anxiety and depression symptom management, trauma recovery with EMDR or talk therapy, and post-break up or divorce recovery.
When working with clients I meet them where they are at in their journey for change- whether they are unsure of what in life needs to be different or if they are already maintaining progress and change. Wherever a client is starting their therapy journey I am here to help increase insight and understanding into problems and help people come up with effective ways to manage symptoms, relationships, or seasons of transition. Areas of focus I help most clients with include skills-based anxiety and depression symptom management, trauma recovery with EMDR or talk therapy, and post-break up or divorce recovery.
(512) 559-1978 View (512) 559-1978
Photo of Magdalen Marrone, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Magdalen Marrone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78745
Among other modalities, I practice Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy to heal trauma and address unhelpful beliefs that contribute to anxiety and depression.
If you're reading this, you may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck. Perhaps your important relationships are suffering. Maybe you know exactly what is causing your distress, or maybe something just feels off. These could be new feelings or feelings you've experienced your entire life. Often, the work I do involves exploring how earlier experiences may be impacting current symptoms, building an understanding of what is happening in the brain, and learning strategies to help regulate the nervous system.
Among other modalities, I practice Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy to heal trauma and address unhelpful beliefs that contribute to anxiety and depression.
If you're reading this, you may be feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck. Perhaps your important relationships are suffering. Maybe you know exactly what is causing your distress, or maybe something just feels off. These could be new feelings or feelings you've experienced your entire life. Often, the work I do involves exploring how earlier experiences may be impacting current symptoms, building an understanding of what is happening in the brain, and learning strategies to help regulate the nervous system.
(737) 204-2229 View (737) 204-2229
Photo of Melanie Grace Babbitt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Grace Babbitt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78745  (Online Only)
Not accepting clients at this time, check back later please. Hello beautiful people, I operate Three Sisters Healing Collective; an online mental health clinic that specializes in trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and anger. I am dedicated to serving people who would otherwise not be able to afford or have access to therapy. I am experienced in providing support to people with mental health needs ranging from mild anxiety to deep psychosis. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Trauma Informed Yoga, and EMDR. My goal as your therapist is to guide you to increase the joy and connection you feel in your daily life.
Not accepting clients at this time, check back later please. Hello beautiful people, I operate Three Sisters Healing Collective; an online mental health clinic that specializes in trauma, grief, anxiety, depression, and anger. I am dedicated to serving people who would otherwise not be able to afford or have access to therapy. I am experienced in providing support to people with mental health needs ranging from mild anxiety to deep psychosis. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Trauma Informed Yoga, and EMDR. My goal as your therapist is to guide you to increase the joy and connection you feel in your daily life.
(512) 598-6781 View (512) 598-6781
Photo of Jason York, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jason York
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
South Austin, Austin, TX 78745
In my practice I utilize mindfulness-based approaches, existential psychotherapy, EMDR, and other theories to help you develop the tools needed to be your best self.
Everyone goes through difficult times in their lives where they feel unsettled and unsure of their direction. These moments often come with feelings of anxiety and depression that can weigh you down and make you feel stuck. I want to help you move past these feelings and work toward the life you have always wanted. To do this I work from a person-centered perspective and feel that the relationship between therapist and client is of the utmost importance. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples dealing with depression, social anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, addiction, and relationship issues, just to name a few.
In my practice I utilize mindfulness-based approaches, existential psychotherapy, EMDR, and other theories to help you develop the tools needed to be your best self.
Everyone goes through difficult times in their lives where they feel unsettled and unsure of their direction. These moments often come with feelings of anxiety and depression that can weigh you down and make you feel stuck. I want to help you move past these feelings and work toward the life you have always wanted. To do this I work from a person-centered perspective and feel that the relationship between therapist and client is of the utmost importance. I enjoy working with adolescents, adults, and couples dealing with depression, social anxiety, ADHD, life transitions, addiction, and relationship issues, just to name a few.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Barb Matijevich, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Barb Matijevich
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78745
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that trauma is the universal experience --we all carry trauma with us--which is why I'm a trauma therapist with a focus on complex PTSD. I am EMDR-trained but I draw on many therapeutic modalities to meet my client's needs. To me, therapy is about releasing the things that prevent us from moving toward ease in our daily lives, in our relationships, and in the way we show up in the world.
I believe that trauma is the universal experience --we all carry trauma with us--which is why I'm a trauma therapist with a focus on complex PTSD. I am EMDR-trained but I draw on many therapeutic modalities to meet my client's needs. To me, therapy is about releasing the things that prevent us from moving toward ease in our daily lives, in our relationships, and in the way we show up in the world.
(512) 975-2161 View (512) 975-2161
Photo of Roxana Ortega-Hart, MSW, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roxana Ortega-Hart
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. I provide free consultations so you can get an idea if we are a good fit. It has been my passion the last 17 years to help people after experiencing traumatic events. I am trained in EMDR which is also known as "no talk therapy". You can share as much or as little as you like making it a preferable type of therapy for those struggling with trauma but not comfortable talking about it. I have also worked closely with first responders for the last 10 years making me familiar with the culture. I also provide consultation and subject matter testimony for domestic violence trials.
Finding the right therapist can be overwhelming. I provide free consultations so you can get an idea if we are a good fit. It has been my passion the last 17 years to help people after experiencing traumatic events. I am trained in EMDR which is also known as "no talk therapy". You can share as much or as little as you like making it a preferable type of therapy for those struggling with trauma but not comfortable talking about it. I have also worked closely with first responders for the last 10 years making me familiar with the culture. I also provide consultation and subject matter testimony for domestic violence trials.
(737) 300-9232 View (737) 300-9232
Photo of Cynthia S Penwell, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia S Penwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78745
I integrate therapeutic approaches that will work best for your experiences, including psychodynamic, family systems, EMDR, and Gottman.
My ideal client is one who is ready to begin the journey towards a better functioning family, and/or a happier life. That person wishes to move through their past experiences and begin the healing process. Healing may require a level of discomfort, but my ideal client has likely been uncomfortable before. That person is ready to feel safe and find the strength and comfort to provide connection with this clinician needed for goals like improved intimacy, decreased sadness or motivation, work-life balance, couples, family of origin issues, and trauma.
I integrate therapeutic approaches that will work best for your experiences, including psychodynamic, family systems, EMDR, and Gottman.
My ideal client is one who is ready to begin the journey towards a better functioning family, and/or a happier life. That person wishes to move through their past experiences and begin the healing process. Healing may require a level of discomfort, but my ideal client has likely been uncomfortable before. That person is ready to feel safe and find the strength and comfort to provide connection with this clinician needed for goals like improved intimacy, decreased sadness or motivation, work-life balance, couples, family of origin issues, and trauma.
(512) 642-8646 View (512) 642-8646
Photo of William Maria Rain-Shadid, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
William Maria Rain-Shadid
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Austin, Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I received my Masters in Social Work (MSW) from The University of Southern California in 2020, and am trained in Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization ( EMDR), an evidence-based treatment modality for trauma recovery.
I provide a positive and strengths-based approach to healing, and have skills and knowledge in working with trauma, child abuse, domestic abuse and sexual violence, dissociation, oppression, and stress. I have over twenty years of experience mentoring and supporting people living with: trauma and dissociation; disability and neurodivergence; and LGBTQ+ identity.
I received my Masters in Social Work (MSW) from The University of Southern California in 2020, and am trained in Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization ( EMDR), an evidence-based treatment modality for trauma recovery.
I provide a positive and strengths-based approach to healing, and have skills and knowledge in working with trauma, child abuse, domestic abuse and sexual violence, dissociation, oppression, and stress. I have over twenty years of experience mentoring and supporting people living with: trauma and dissociation; disability and neurodivergence; and LGBTQ+ identity.
(512) 675-6598 View (512) 675-6598
Photo of Natalie Harvey, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Natalie Harvey
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS
Verified Verified
South Austin, Austin, TX 78745
Offering EMDR and CBT, is a great way to begin to reduce unwanted symptoms and start focusing on what you really want!.
A couple having marriage trouble, a teenager struggling with self esteem, a functioning adult who is working but is struggling with depression or anxiety. These people want to feel normal, they want to feel like their not a burden and that they can live a happy life.
Offering EMDR and CBT, is a great way to begin to reduce unwanted symptoms and start focusing on what you really want!.
A couple having marriage trouble, a teenager struggling with self esteem, a functioning adult who is working but is struggling with depression or anxiety. These people want to feel normal, they want to feel like their not a burden and that they can live a happy life.
(512) 714-3403 View (512) 714-3403
Photo of Sarah L Gremillion, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah L Gremillion
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Austin, Austin, TX 78748
I draw from formal training in EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal process therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, and Gottman method couples' therapy.
I have 10 years' clinical experience providing individual and couples therapy to adults. Every step we take has its mirror in the brain; in therapy you have a chance to re-write important parts of your story and support to move in new directions. I have extensive experience as a generalist mental health provider, working with anxiety, depression, major life changes, and relationship struggles. My clinical work has specialized in the LGBTQ+ community and I am comfortable with diverse sexual, gender, and relationship presentations.
I draw from formal training in EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, interpersonal process therapy, interpersonal neurobiology, and Gottman method couples' therapy.
I have 10 years' clinical experience providing individual and couples therapy to adults. Every step we take has its mirror in the brain; in therapy you have a chance to re-write important parts of your story and support to move in new directions. I have extensive experience as a generalist mental health provider, working with anxiety, depression, major life changes, and relationship struggles. My clinical work has specialized in the LGBTQ+ community and I am comfortable with diverse sexual, gender, and relationship presentations.
(737) 210-5498 View (737) 210-5498
Photo of Kim Johnson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kim Johnson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78704  (Online Only)
My training utilizes EMDR, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Narrative Therapy, and CBT.
First I'd like to say that I'm glad you're here. Prioritizing yourself and your mental health is a vulnerable process. It is my intention to create a space with choice, encouragement, and warmth. The time we have together is set aside to address whatever stressors are most present in your life. I have experience supporting individuals of all ages struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, ADHD, and grief. In addition to counseling, I have provided advocacy and trial prep to survivors of sexual assault and other violent crimes. I'm a staunch advocate for women's rights, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities.
My training utilizes EMDR, Mindfulness, Interpersonal Neurobiology, Narrative Therapy, and CBT.
First I'd like to say that I'm glad you're here. Prioritizing yourself and your mental health is a vulnerable process. It is my intention to create a space with choice, encouragement, and warmth. The time we have together is set aside to address whatever stressors are most present in your life. I have experience supporting individuals of all ages struggling with PTSD, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, ADHD, and grief. In addition to counseling, I have provided advocacy and trial prep to survivors of sexual assault and other violent crimes. I'm a staunch advocate for women's rights, LGBTQIA+, and other marginalized communities.
(325) 309-5568 View (325) 309-5568
Photo of Rebecca Huston, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Huston
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
South Austin, Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
I am certified in EMDR, and Hypnotherapy.
Have life or world events caused you to lose sight of your goals or identity? Do you question your place in the world, struggle with authenticity, walk on eggshells or have a history of being considered the black sheep or scapegoat in your family, marriage or relationship? Gaining perspective can be a powerful tool in examining your life and choices. Many of my clients seek help understanding their relationship to traumatic events, life changes, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, chronic illness/pain, grief, communication, spiritual beliefs or recovery from narcissistic abuse. I utilize a holistic approach, encompassing mind, body and spirit.
I am certified in EMDR, and Hypnotherapy.
Have life or world events caused you to lose sight of your goals or identity? Do you question your place in the world, struggle with authenticity, walk on eggshells or have a history of being considered the black sheep or scapegoat in your family, marriage or relationship? Gaining perspective can be a powerful tool in examining your life and choices. Many of my clients seek help understanding their relationship to traumatic events, life changes, anxiety, ADHD, PTSD, chronic illness/pain, grief, communication, spiritual beliefs or recovery from narcissistic abuse. I utilize a holistic approach, encompassing mind, body and spirit.
(512) 271-5252 View (512) 271-5252
Photo of Michele Quintin Quill, LCSW, BSP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michele Quintin Quill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, BSP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78745
Combining revolutionary techniques such as brainspotting & EMDR with traditional talk therapy, we will connect with the hurt parts of yourself.
I specialize in doing the deep work that helps people heal from complex trauma and PTSD, childhood abuse/neglect and other big wounds. You may struggle inside, even if you look put together on the outside. My style is caring, compassionate, and direct. Expect me to listen deeply and help you heal from the inside out. We will work together to help you gain insight and learn new skills for managing difficult situations. You will learn to attune to how your body is experiencing the world and how to let emotions move through you. So much is possible when you have determination and the right guide. Together, let's make good shift happen!
Combining revolutionary techniques such as brainspotting & EMDR with traditional talk therapy, we will connect with the hurt parts of yourself.
I specialize in doing the deep work that helps people heal from complex trauma and PTSD, childhood abuse/neglect and other big wounds. You may struggle inside, even if you look put together on the outside. My style is caring, compassionate, and direct. Expect me to listen deeply and help you heal from the inside out. We will work together to help you gain insight and learn new skills for managing difficult situations. You will learn to attune to how your body is experiencing the world and how to let emotions move through you. So much is possible when you have determination and the right guide. Together, let's make good shift happen!
(512) 763-7002 View (512) 763-7002
Photo of Crystal Lynn Suchyta, MA, LPC , Licensed Professional Counselor
Crystal Lynn Suchyta
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78748  (Online Only)
I utilize a collaborative approach while offering modalities of both EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Hi! I'm Crystal. I'm a Licensed professional counselor who loves working with women, college age and adolescent girls. I know it is not easy at times; trying to balance school/work , friendships, home life, and extracurricular activities. Many individual struggle to do those things while living with symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress and/or trauma. My goal is to help you overcome these difficult times by connecting and walking along side you in your journey toward growth and change. I provide a safe, warm place for clients to explore, challenge and replace those unhelpful thoughts and behaviors utilizing CBT and EMDR.
I utilize a collaborative approach while offering modalities of both EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Hi! I'm Crystal. I'm a Licensed professional counselor who loves working with women, college age and adolescent girls. I know it is not easy at times; trying to balance school/work , friendships, home life, and extracurricular activities. Many individual struggle to do those things while living with symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress and/or trauma. My goal is to help you overcome these difficult times by connecting and walking along side you in your journey toward growth and change. I provide a safe, warm place for clients to explore, challenge and replace those unhelpful thoughts and behaviors utilizing CBT and EMDR.
(737) 637-4278 View (737) 637-4278
Photo of Olivia-Beth Horak, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Olivia-Beth Horak
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Austin, Austin, TX 78745
I offer EMDR Intensives; learn more at my website.
Welcome! I'm OB, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping children, teens, adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community navigate the complexity and stress in their lives. I know what it’s like to feel both too much and not enough. I became a therapist because I do not want anyone to feel as alone as I did in my darkest moments. I want to watch you walk away lighter, freer, and more excited to live your own personal journey after healing from wounds and obstacles in your path. My areas of clinical focus are in depression and trauma. I am trained in EMDR, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy.
I offer EMDR Intensives; learn more at my website.
Welcome! I'm OB, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to helping children, teens, adults, and the LGBTQIA+ community navigate the complexity and stress in their lives. I know what it’s like to feel both too much and not enough. I became a therapist because I do not want anyone to feel as alone as I did in my darkest moments. I want to watch you walk away lighter, freer, and more excited to live your own personal journey after healing from wounds and obstacles in your path. My areas of clinical focus are in depression and trauma. I am trained in EMDR, Trauma-Informed Therapy, and Mindfulness-Based Psychotherapy.
(737) 510-7242 View (737) 510-7242
Photo of Emma Weissfeld, LMSW
Emma Weissfeld
Licensed Master Social Worker, LMSW
Verified Verified
South Austin, Austin, TX 78748
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
The willingness to start mental health counseling is a courageous step towards creating positive change in your life. I create a warm, trusting, and collaborative atmosphere, where you can express yourself without worry of judgment. You are the expert of your life, and as your therapist, I will be here with a sense of curiosity and support. I work best with people who are highly motivated to understand their patterns and achieve their goals.
I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
The willingness to start mental health counseling is a courageous step towards creating positive change in your life. I create a warm, trusting, and collaborative atmosphere, where you can express yourself without worry of judgment. You are the expert of your life, and as your therapist, I will be here with a sense of curiosity and support. I work best with people who are highly motivated to understand their patterns and achieve their goals.
(512) 722-7008 View (512) 722-7008
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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.