EMDR Therapists in M Streets, Dallas, TX

Photo of Jennifer Miller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75204  (Online Only)
She primarily utilizes CBT and EMDR as her main approaches in therapy.
Jennifer specializes in treating adults struggling with anxiety, depression and trauma. She equips individuals with essential skills to manage and overcome the challenges posed by overwhelming symptoms. Jennifer is known for her engaging and empathetic approach, and she is dedicated to establishing a therapeutic setting where clients can feel fully accepted, safe, and nurtured.
She primarily utilizes CBT and EMDR as her main approaches in therapy.
Jennifer specializes in treating adults struggling with anxiety, depression and trauma. She equips individuals with essential skills to manage and overcome the challenges posed by overwhelming symptoms. Jennifer is known for her engaging and empathetic approach, and she is dedicated to establishing a therapeutic setting where clients can feel fully accepted, safe, and nurtured.
(512) 768-2731 View (512) 768-2731
Photo of Sophie Grace Stevens, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sophie Grace Stevens
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
I am Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) certified as well as trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) , Play Therapy and Problematic Sexual Behavior Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB- CBT).
Sometimes, Life can be unpredictable and out of our control. During times of chaos, I aim to help my clients find hope, joy and humor; with a renewed enthusiasm for life. My goal is to create a safe place for you to land and make meaning of the hardships you encounter in those seasons. I believe people are resilient and have the capability for healing and growth, they often just need support uncovering their strength within. I specialize in working with trauma, grief and bereavement, anxiety and depression, life transitions and autism spectrum disorders.
I am Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) certified as well as trained in Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) , Play Therapy and Problematic Sexual Behavior Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (PSB- CBT).
Sometimes, Life can be unpredictable and out of our control. During times of chaos, I aim to help my clients find hope, joy and humor; with a renewed enthusiasm for life. My goal is to create a safe place for you to land and make meaning of the hardships you encounter in those seasons. I believe people are resilient and have the capability for healing and growth, they often just need support uncovering their strength within. I specialize in working with trauma, grief and bereavement, anxiety and depression, life transitions and autism spectrum disorders.
(214) 225-8905 View (214) 225-8905
Photo of Bryan Ritchie, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bryan Ritchie
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
Do you find yourself overwhelmed, no matter what you do? Are you may be fed up? You might not even remember a time when things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to experience peace again. Clients I work with see quick results using EMDR and solution-focused therapeutic methods.
Do you find yourself overwhelmed, no matter what you do? Are you may be fed up? You might not even remember a time when things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to experience peace again. Clients I work with see quick results using EMDR and solution-focused therapeutic methods.
(682) 223-4278 View (682) 223-4278
Photo of Erin Wysong-Warren, LPC-S, NCC, CSAT, CPTT, SEP, Counselor
Erin Wysong-Warren
Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, CSAT, CPTT, SEP
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75204
Some modalities I use include EMDR and Somatic Experiencing (SE).
If you struggle with sexually compulsive behaviors, sexual addiction, or have a partner who has caused devastation in your life, I can help. Trying to stop compulsive behaviors on your own is difficult, and you may find yourself failing and experiencing shame because you don't have the tools you need. Whether these compulsive behaviors come from being betrayed by a partner, experiencing PTSD, being enmeshed with a partner or parent, or grieving a divorce, I can teach you the necessary skills to handle life's challenges. I'm passionate about my work and want to help you.
Some modalities I use include EMDR and Somatic Experiencing (SE).
If you struggle with sexually compulsive behaviors, sexual addiction, or have a partner who has caused devastation in your life, I can help. Trying to stop compulsive behaviors on your own is difficult, and you may find yourself failing and experiencing shame because you don't have the tools you need. Whether these compulsive behaviors come from being betrayed by a partner, experiencing PTSD, being enmeshed with a partner or parent, or grieving a divorce, I can teach you the necessary skills to handle life's challenges. I'm passionate about my work and want to help you.
(469) 518-2342 View (469) 518-2342
Photo of Lauren Elizabeth Sanchez, LPC, Counselor
Lauren Elizabeth Sanchez
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
I am use Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization, (EMDR.
Do you feel stuck? Have you been struggling with the same triggers, poor relationships patterns and low self esteem? I am here to help you flourish and grow! We get caught in thought and behavior ruts that continue to lead to in difficulty with relationships, jobs and overall health. Changing the memories that form the way we see ourselves also changes the way we view others. Therefore, our relationships, job performance, what we are willing to do or are able to resist, all move in a positive direction.
I am use Eye Movement Reprocessing and Desensitization, (EMDR.
Do you feel stuck? Have you been struggling with the same triggers, poor relationships patterns and low self esteem? I am here to help you flourish and grow! We get caught in thought and behavior ruts that continue to lead to in difficulty with relationships, jobs and overall health. Changing the memories that form the way we see ourselves also changes the way we view others. Therefore, our relationships, job performance, what we are willing to do or are able to resist, all move in a positive direction.
(469) 949-6175 View (469) 949-6175
Photo of Faith M. Nouri, PhD, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Faith M. Nouri
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
I use modalities including but not limited to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy, Mind/Body Modalities, Somatic-Emotional Processing, and Existential/Spiritual navigation and growth.
NOW is the time! Unlock the path to enriched relationships, peak performance, and inner serenity with cutting-edge therapeutic techniques from a bio-psycho-socio-spiritual lens tailored to guide you through transformative change. As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) and Clinical Assistant Professor at Southern Methodist University (SMU), author of numerous publications including the book "So Long, Depression", and an international speaker on various topics related to wellness and mental health, I am dedicated to helping you navigate your path toward a fulfilling life.
I use modalities including but not limited to Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy, Mind/Body Modalities, Somatic-Emotional Processing, and Existential/Spiritual navigation and growth.
NOW is the time! Unlock the path to enriched relationships, peak performance, and inner serenity with cutting-edge therapeutic techniques from a bio-psycho-socio-spiritual lens tailored to guide you through transformative change. As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor (LPC-S) and Clinical Assistant Professor at Southern Methodist University (SMU), author of numerous publications including the book "So Long, Depression", and an international speaker on various topics related to wellness and mental health, I am dedicated to helping you navigate your path toward a fulfilling life.
(214) 949-4671 View (214) 949-4671
Photo of Stephanie Lindsey - Stephanie Lindsey, MS, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stephanie Lindsey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206  (Online Only)
I utilize EMDR, sport psych, & CBT methods to help you identify areas of growth, make healthy and positive changes, as well as repair your relationships, environments, and self-worth.
You feel lost, stuck, and unsure of how to make things better. Bad things have happened, or keep happening, and you ask yourself “why me?” You feel stuck, frustrated, sad, and worried a lot. You struggle with the fear of something bad happening again and your confidence has dwindled. You just aren't happy with how life worked out and you want it to look different. Dating also feels impossible/your marriage isn't how you thought it would be - and you're exhausted! The people in your life also don't understand you - and maybe sometimes you don't understand yourself either. Let's work together to increase awareness and make changes.
I utilize EMDR, sport psych, & CBT methods to help you identify areas of growth, make healthy and positive changes, as well as repair your relationships, environments, and self-worth.
You feel lost, stuck, and unsure of how to make things better. Bad things have happened, or keep happening, and you ask yourself “why me?” You feel stuck, frustrated, sad, and worried a lot. You struggle with the fear of something bad happening again and your confidence has dwindled. You just aren't happy with how life worked out and you want it to look different. Dating also feels impossible/your marriage isn't how you thought it would be - and you're exhausted! The people in your life also don't understand you - and maybe sometimes you don't understand yourself either. Let's work together to increase awareness and make changes.
(214) 225-3922 View (214) 225-3922
Photo of Vianka V Davila - Journey with Pegasus Therapy PLLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Journey with Pegasus Therapy PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
I use standard talk therapy and have specialized training in EMDR and certified in Eagala for equine assisted therapy.
Let's create a safe place for you to be able to explore; whether you need to explore your anxiety, self-esteem, or even past trauma. I enjoy helping others work on understanding and learning how to manage anxiety. I have insight within the Latinx community and enjoy working on stopping generational trauma. Trauma is a difficult journey to work through, however, it is not impossible. We will begin this journey by allowing yourself to be open and curious throughout this process. Let's set realistic goals and take one step at a time.
I use standard talk therapy and have specialized training in EMDR and certified in Eagala for equine assisted therapy.
Let's create a safe place for you to be able to explore; whether you need to explore your anxiety, self-esteem, or even past trauma. I enjoy helping others work on understanding and learning how to manage anxiety. I have insight within the Latinx community and enjoy working on stopping generational trauma. Trauma is a difficult journey to work through, however, it is not impossible. We will begin this journey by allowing yourself to be open and curious throughout this process. Let's set realistic goals and take one step at a time.
(214) 367-5021 View (214) 367-5021
Photo of Michal A. Whitcomb, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michal A. Whitcomb
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
I have a Master of Arts in Counseling and have been counseling adults, children, teens, and families since 2008. Working with clients struggling with anxiety and grief and loss is a special interest of mine, but I have experience treating a wide variety of issues including depression, adjustment, self-esteem issues, crisis, domestic violence, abuse, and trauma. I am Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I am also an EMDR Consultant-in-Training (EMDRIA).
I have a Master of Arts in Counseling and have been counseling adults, children, teens, and families since 2008. Working with clients struggling with anxiety and grief and loss is a special interest of mine, but I have experience treating a wide variety of issues including depression, adjustment, self-esteem issues, crisis, domestic violence, abuse, and trauma. I am Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I am also an EMDR Consultant-in-Training (EMDRIA).
(214) 390-5997 View (214) 390-5997
Photo of Holley Craft, MMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holley Craft
Marriage & Family Therapist, MMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
I am a collaborative, trauma-informed therapist who has been trained in EMDR and EFT.
My goal as a therapist is to meet you where you are at. All emotions, thoughts and experiences are welcomed in this space. I want to help you realize that you are not alone in your experiences and that you have the capacity to revisit and process those experiences in a safe way. Throughout treatment, my hope is that you are able to find confidence and deeper connections within yourself and your relationships.
I am a collaborative, trauma-informed therapist who has been trained in EMDR and EFT.
My goal as a therapist is to meet you where you are at. All emotions, thoughts and experiences are welcomed in this space. I want to help you realize that you are not alone in your experiences and that you have the capacity to revisit and process those experiences in a safe way. Throughout treatment, my hope is that you are able to find confidence and deeper connections within yourself and your relationships.
(214) 466-2646 View (214) 466-2646
Photo of Deena Harbaugh, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deena Harbaugh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
I am a trained EMDR clinician.
Hello! I am Deena Harbaugh. My practice focuses on adults struggling with the aftereffects of incest/sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, trauma, family of origin issues, divorce, marriage conflict, and LGBTQ issues.
I am a trained EMDR clinician.
Hello! I am Deena Harbaugh. My practice focuses on adults struggling with the aftereffects of incest/sexual abuse, domestic violence, depression, anxiety, trauma, family of origin issues, divorce, marriage conflict, and LGBTQ issues.
(469) 892-8917 View (469) 892-8917
Photo of Kimberly Stapert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Stapert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
Common theoretical approaches that I utilize include CBT, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, and motivational interviewing.
Kimberly Stapert Beard, MSW, LCSW has over 20 years of clinical experience. Kimberly strives to build authentic relationships founded on unconditional positive regard in order to facilitate holistic growth, hope, and healing. Whether you are struggling with a temporary setback or an ongoing problem, I can assist you; there is HOPE. It is my belief that, as human beings, we all face life challenges, be they relational, personal, emotional, spiritual, or physical, and our mental health affects how we respond to these challenges. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling for youth (age 10+) and adults.
Common theoretical approaches that I utilize include CBT, trauma-informed therapy, EMDR, and motivational interviewing.
Kimberly Stapert Beard, MSW, LCSW has over 20 years of clinical experience. Kimberly strives to build authentic relationships founded on unconditional positive regard in order to facilitate holistic growth, hope, and healing. Whether you are struggling with a temporary setback or an ongoing problem, I can assist you; there is HOPE. It is my belief that, as human beings, we all face life challenges, be they relational, personal, emotional, spiritual, or physical, and our mental health affects how we respond to these challenges. I offer individual, couples, and family counseling for youth (age 10+) and adults.
(832) 281-4304 View (832) 281-4304
Photo of Callie Curtin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Callie Curtin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
If you are feeling something is not right in your life, it can help to talk to someone who is not involved in the situation. You can come in to therapy, talk about your life, leave with a new outlook and leave some of the problem behind. Callie is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) which is used to treat trauma and anxiety, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is a Certified Clinical Child and Adolescent Anxiety Treatment Professional.
If you are feeling something is not right in your life, it can help to talk to someone who is not involved in the situation. You can come in to therapy, talk about your life, leave with a new outlook and leave some of the problem behind. Callie is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR) which is used to treat trauma and anxiety, Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and is a Certified Clinical Child and Adolescent Anxiety Treatment Professional.
(214) 393-7415 x3 View (214) 393-7415 x3
Photo of Tabatha Gunn, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tabatha Gunn
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
Modalities I use include: Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and I am an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) trained therapist.
My primary focus is trauma survivors. I have experience with survivors of domestic violence, sexual and physical assault, and traumatic grief (i.e. individuals who have lost loved ones to homicide, suicide, or sudden deaths). I also work with clients experiencing major life transitions and issues with self-esteem. I work primarily with adults from all backgrounds.
Modalities I use include: Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TFCBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, and I am an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) trained therapist.
My primary focus is trauma survivors. I have experience with survivors of domestic violence, sexual and physical assault, and traumatic grief (i.e. individuals who have lost loved ones to homicide, suicide, or sudden deaths). I also work with clients experiencing major life transitions and issues with self-esteem. I work primarily with adults from all backgrounds.
(817) 717-4706 View (817) 717-4706
Photo of Rachel Beal, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Beal
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
I am an EMDR and TF-CBT trained therapist.
Trauma of any amount greatly impacts our development and ability to thrive. Creating issues within the family system, depression, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness. My practice holds space to heal and enable growth to cope with these symptoms.
I am an EMDR and TF-CBT trained therapist.
Trauma of any amount greatly impacts our development and ability to thrive. Creating issues within the family system, depression, anxiety, and feelings of hopelessness. My practice holds space to heal and enable growth to cope with these symptoms.
(469) 253-7620 View (469) 253-7620
Photo of Amy Ann Porras, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Ann Porras
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
My goal for my clients is to guide them from a place of pain and suffering toward growth and healing. I am a LPC who specializes in helping clients navigate challenges of pre and post divorce, infidelity recovery, couples seeking healing, understanding, and intimacy. I also support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/complex trauma, codependency, anger management, bipolar disorder, self-harm behaviors, and lack of assertiveness by helping them develop a healthier self-concept. I am EMDR trained and work with first responders.
My goal for my clients is to guide them from a place of pain and suffering toward growth and healing. I am a LPC who specializes in helping clients navigate challenges of pre and post divorce, infidelity recovery, couples seeking healing, understanding, and intimacy. I also support individuals struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma/complex trauma, codependency, anger management, bipolar disorder, self-harm behaviors, and lack of assertiveness by helping them develop a healthier self-concept. I am EMDR trained and work with first responders.
(469) 240-5251 View (469) 240-5251
Photo of Cassandra Holt Kimbell, MSEd, LPCC-S, NCC, EMDR, CIT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cassandra Holt Kimbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LPCC-S, NCC, EMDR, CIT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
Everyone deserves to feel balanced and deserves to have a safe space to let go and share. Nobody should ever feel alone or always have to be “the strong one”. I use an eclectic model- combining pieces of CBT, SFBT, EMDR and Mindfulness-Based Practices and customize them to fit the person in front of me. I am listening, taking it all in, and deciding which pieces may be of most help to you and your life. I specialize in working with creatives and neurodivergent humans. I go above and beyond to provide the best care for my clients free of judgement. (Only scheduling EMDR intensives and Autism/ADHD Assessments, or group signups).
Everyone deserves to feel balanced and deserves to have a safe space to let go and share. Nobody should ever feel alone or always have to be “the strong one”. I use an eclectic model- combining pieces of CBT, SFBT, EMDR and Mindfulness-Based Practices and customize them to fit the person in front of me. I am listening, taking it all in, and deciding which pieces may be of most help to you and your life. I specialize in working with creatives and neurodivergent humans. I go above and beyond to provide the best care for my clients free of judgement. (Only scheduling EMDR intensives and Autism/ADHD Assessments, or group signups).
(214) 480-4943 View (214) 480-4943
Photo of Kathy McDonald, MS, LPC, RYT-200, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathy McDonald
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RYT-200
Verified Verified
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75206
Among my skills are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Gottman Therapy.
I am passionate about helping clients find the awareness, insight, and resilience they need to overcome challenges and live a joyful, meaningful, and fulfilling life. My approach in counseling is based on ensuring you feel you are in a supportive space so you can explore your current thoughts and feelings, process past experiences, and envision and achieve your goals. Clients describe me as calm, caring, and understanding. My goal is to offer fresh perspectives to those seeking change along with the collaboration, skills, and tools needed to create a path forward.
Among my skills are: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy (MBCT), EMDR, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Gottman Therapy.
I am passionate about helping clients find the awareness, insight, and resilience they need to overcome challenges and live a joyful, meaningful, and fulfilling life. My approach in counseling is based on ensuring you feel you are in a supportive space so you can explore your current thoughts and feelings, process past experiences, and envision and achieve your goals. Clients describe me as calm, caring, and understanding. My goal is to offer fresh perspectives to those seeking change along with the collaboration, skills, and tools needed to create a path forward.
(214) 225-5937 View (214) 225-5937
Photo of Veronica Ehret, LPC-TX, LPC-AZ, CSAT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Veronica Ehret
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-TX, LPC-AZ, CSAT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75204
I am qualified and have experience in Sexual Addiction Therapy (CSAT), Post Induction Therapy (PIT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
My job is to help you mend your relationship with yourself so that you can find and grow healthy connections with others. Together, we will work to discover the root of the problem while also investigating other issues often tied to intimacy disorders, such as addiction in all its forms, including substances, workaholism, sex, pornography, poor spending habits, and other addictive behaviors.
I am qualified and have experience in Sexual Addiction Therapy (CSAT), Post Induction Therapy (PIT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
My job is to help you mend your relationship with yourself so that you can find and grow healthy connections with others. Together, we will work to discover the root of the problem while also investigating other issues often tied to intimacy disorders, such as addiction in all its forms, including substances, workaholism, sex, pornography, poor spending habits, and other addictive behaviors.
(469) 425-8946 View (469) 425-8946
Photo of Wendy Watts, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Wendy Watts
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
M Streets, Dallas, TX 75204
I specialize in treating children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I'm a compassionate and empathetic therapist who guides my clients with understanding and care. I specialize in EMDR and Family Systems Therapy, tailoring my approach to address each client’s unique needs and goals.
I specialize in treating children, teens, and adults struggling with anxiety, depression, and PTSD. I'm a compassionate and empathetic therapist who guides my clients with understanding and care. I specialize in EMDR and Family Systems Therapy, tailoring my approach to address each client’s unique needs and goals.
(972) 597-1791 View (972) 597-1791
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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.