EMDR Therapists in Huntsville, TX

Photo of Iesha Sylvester - Rise and Shine Education & Counseling Enterprise , MEd, CSC, EMDR, Trained, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rise and Shine Education & Counseling Enterprise
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, CSC, EMDR, Trained
Verified Verified
Huntsville, TX 77320
With this mindset, I counsel using an integrative approach with Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, SSP, Mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, EMDR, and Adolescent & Child Centered Play Therapy.
Hello! I AM Iesha Sylvester, a Counselor who Cares! Are you struggling to manage the stresses or changes in work/school, marriage, family? Are you at a place in life where you seem out of balance? Are you stuck in an unwanted pattern? Are you tired of your past repeating itself? Well, I am here to meet you where you are to help you get to where YOU want to BE! As a professional helper, I have served as an educator and certified school counselor for 2 decades. NOW I transfer those skills to individuals in a therapeutic setting. I help children/adolescents/adults and families with a dedicated heart. I want everyone be their best!
With this mindset, I counsel using an integrative approach with Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, SSP, Mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, EMDR, and Adolescent & Child Centered Play Therapy.
Hello! I AM Iesha Sylvester, a Counselor who Cares! Are you struggling to manage the stresses or changes in work/school, marriage, family? Are you at a place in life where you seem out of balance? Are you stuck in an unwanted pattern? Are you tired of your past repeating itself? Well, I am here to meet you where you are to help you get to where YOU want to BE! As a professional helper, I have served as an educator and certified school counselor for 2 decades. NOW I transfer those skills to individuals in a therapeutic setting. I help children/adolescents/adults and families with a dedicated heart. I want everyone be their best!
(936) 226-0194 View (936) 226-0194
Photo of Ashley F Ward-Hines, EdD, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley F Ward-Hines
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntsville, TX 77320  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Dr. Ashley Ward, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment so you can rediscover your strengths. I am EMDR-trained and CBT certified.
Hi, my name is Dr. Ashley Ward, I am a Licensed Professional Counselor. My goal is to provide a safe, supportive, and collaborative environment so you can rediscover your strengths. I am EMDR-trained and CBT certified.
(281) 532-8494 View (281) 532-8494
Photo of Gloria E. Kessler, MEd, LPC, LCDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gloria E. Kessler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, TX 77340
Allowing my clients to experience the world of counseling in a positive way. I practice positive psychology, which will give my clients a whole new way of looking at their lives, even though the world may not be the most positive place they see. My clients will be introduced to skills that will help them move forward in a life they thought they were "stuck" in. I help my clients see their strengths as their motivators for life's uneasy situations. I am a counselor that is a Christian, and can assist those clients that use faith as a basis for handling life's obstacles.
Allowing my clients to experience the world of counseling in a positive way. I practice positive psychology, which will give my clients a whole new way of looking at their lives, even though the world may not be the most positive place they see. My clients will be introduced to skills that will help them move forward in a life they thought they were "stuck" in. I help my clients see their strengths as their motivators for life's uneasy situations. I am a counselor that is a Christian, and can assist those clients that use faith as a basis for handling life's obstacles.
(936) 755-5198 View (936) 755-5198
Photo of Brandon Louis Morgan - CourageousCounseling.org / Brandon L. Morgan, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
CourageousCounseling.org / Brandon L. Morgan
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntsville, TX 77320
Do you fume when someone cuts you off in traffic? Does your blood pressure rocket when your child refuses to cooperate? Anger is a normal and even healthy emotion — but it's important to deal with it in a positive way. Uncontrolled anger can take a toll on both your health and your relationships. Ready to get your anger under control?
Do you fume when someone cuts you off in traffic? Does your blood pressure rocket when your child refuses to cooperate? Anger is a normal and even healthy emotion — but it's important to deal with it in a positive way. Uncontrolled anger can take a toll on both your health and your relationships. Ready to get your anger under control?
(210) 960-8065 View (210) 960-8065
Photo of Lindsey Taylor - Best You Counseling Services, LPC, NCC, CCATP, CTMH, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Best You Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CCATP, CTMH, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntsville, TX 77320  (Online Only)
Each person who seeks counseling is on a unique journey with their own needs. We start by understanding what brings them to counseling and then set goals together. Every session may present different challenges, but we work on connecting everything we discuss, using techniques and strategies learned during our time together. This ensures that clients gain skills they can carry with them long after counseling ends.
Each person who seeks counseling is on a unique journey with their own needs. We start by understanding what brings them to counseling and then set goals together. Every session may present different challenges, but we work on connecting everything we discuss, using techniques and strategies learned during our time together. This ensures that clients gain skills they can carry with them long after counseling ends.
(936) 259-3179 View (936) 259-3179
Photo of Sophia Fouche - Southeastern Psychology Group, PhD, LCSW, Psychologist
Southeastern Psychology Group
Psychologist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntsville, TX 77320
We provide psychotherapy for adults, children and families experiencing a variety of presenting issues. Our approach to therapy is individually tailored to address your specific needs. We draw on a range of techniques to help you align with your goals. We do not see any one model as having all the answers, but believe that the most effective therapy integrates multiple theoretical perspectives. We provide a safe place for authentic connection on your journey to healing.
We provide psychotherapy for adults, children and families experiencing a variety of presenting issues. Our approach to therapy is individually tailored to address your specific needs. We draw on a range of techniques to help you align with your goals. We do not see any one model as having all the answers, but believe that the most effective therapy integrates multiple theoretical perspectives. We provide a safe place for authentic connection on your journey to healing.
(346) 482-3008 View (346) 482-3008

Online Therapists

Photo of Charles Hallmark - Hallmark Psychological Services, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Hallmark Psychological Services, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77027  (Online Only)
EMDR trained; also trained in integrative approaches, including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Welcome! As a Licensed Psychologist, I bring warmth, empathy, and years of experience. With a focus on both adolescents and adults, I specialize in evidence-based therapy, including EMDR, for a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, autism, grief and loss, ADHD, codependency, and trauma. My approach is integrative and neurodivergent-affirmative, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs of every individual. Please note email and/or the Headway portal are the most effective ways to contact me.
EMDR trained; also trained in integrative approaches, including cognitive behavioral, dialectical behavioral, and acceptance and commitment therapy.
Welcome! As a Licensed Psychologist, I bring warmth, empathy, and years of experience. With a focus on both adolescents and adults, I specialize in evidence-based therapy, including EMDR, for a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, autism, grief and loss, ADHD, codependency, and trauma. My approach is integrative and neurodivergent-affirmative, tailoring each session to meet the unique needs of every individual. Please note email and/or the Headway portal are the most effective ways to contact me.
(281) 957-1939 View (281) 957-1939
Photo of Carla Barnes, LPC, NCC, EdD, MS, Counselor
Carla Barnes
Counselor, LPC, NCC, EdD, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77084  (Online Only)
I started my career as an educator over 25 years ago. I work as a mental health professional and a professional school counselor. I am a strong believer in self care, mental health , nutrition, and wellness as instrumental in our quality of life. In addition to being a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor and certified school teacher, my qualifications include a master of science in nutrition and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) certification. I am a strong believer in healthy living using a holistic approach for physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing.
I started my career as an educator over 25 years ago. I work as a mental health professional and a professional school counselor. I am a strong believer in self care, mental health , nutrition, and wellness as instrumental in our quality of life. In addition to being a Licensed Professional Mental Health Counselor and certified school teacher, my qualifications include a master of science in nutrition and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) certification. I am a strong believer in healthy living using a holistic approach for physical, emotional, social and spiritual wellbeing.
(281) 609-7641 View (281) 609-7641
Photo of Josalynn Cartagena, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Josalynn Cartagena
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Houston, TX 77056  (Online Only)
I use the modalities of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Person Centered Theory and EMDR to process negative memories.
Are you seeking a counselor who will guide you through your life's journey, helping you uncover your purpose? My goal as your counselor is to team up with you as you journey through this thing called life. I hope to help you find your purpose and reason for living. I cannot do all the work for you, but I can guide you, link arms with you and encourage you towards a brighter mentality, way and future. Being a teacher to very little ones for a decade, and a school counselor currently, and having worked with adult clients in my practicum, I feel very comfortable with all age groups.
I use the modalities of CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), Person Centered Theory and EMDR to process negative memories.
Are you seeking a counselor who will guide you through your life's journey, helping you uncover your purpose? My goal as your counselor is to team up with you as you journey through this thing called life. I hope to help you find your purpose and reason for living. I cannot do all the work for you, but I can guide you, link arms with you and encourage you towards a brighter mentality, way and future. Being a teacher to very little ones for a decade, and a school counselor currently, and having worked with adult clients in my practicum, I feel very comfortable with all age groups.
(346) 202-3825 View (346) 202-3825
Photo of Jackie Sarager, LPC-A
Jackie Sarager
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, LPC-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
I use EMDR, IFS, and neuroscience modalities, and I work somatically as a trauma certified yoga instructor.
Are you dealing with family of origin issues, childhood trauma, or family conflict? Are your current relationships struggling? Has anxiety or depression taken over a part of your life? Your experiences are real and your concerns are valid. Breaking the cycle is possible. As you navigate your journey, a facilitator is someone who makes travel easier, and that is how I see my role. My greatest strength is in connecting with my clients and creating a safe relationship to facilitate deep healing. I specialize in an approach to healing that builds overall wellness so you can feel your best.
I use EMDR, IFS, and neuroscience modalities, and I work somatically as a trauma certified yoga instructor.
Are you dealing with family of origin issues, childhood trauma, or family conflict? Are your current relationships struggling? Has anxiety or depression taken over a part of your life? Your experiences are real and your concerns are valid. Breaking the cycle is possible. As you navigate your journey, a facilitator is someone who makes travel easier, and that is how I see my role. My greatest strength is in connecting with my clients and creating a safe relationship to facilitate deep healing. I specialize in an approach to healing that builds overall wellness so you can feel your best.
(281) 324-8780 View (281) 324-8780
Photo of Tami Dinh, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tami Dinh
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Friendswood, TX 77546
Waitlist for new clients
I use expressive arts and EMDR therapy and tarot while also exploring the early events that make us who we are currently.
I love to work with queer, neurodivergent people of color and otherwise marginalized adolescents and adults, because of my interest in our collective liberation. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort and that clients are the experts in their own lives. They have the ability to choose how to resolve their problems. Of course, many issues are systemic, but what choices can we make of the things within our control? I use experiential awareness and expressive arts to create a space to develop insight in order to grow and heal.
I use expressive arts and EMDR therapy and tarot while also exploring the early events that make us who we are currently.
I love to work with queer, neurodivergent people of color and otherwise marginalized adolescents and adults, because of my interest in our collective liberation. I believe therapy is a collaborative effort and that clients are the experts in their own lives. They have the ability to choose how to resolve their problems. Of course, many issues are systemic, but what choices can we make of the things within our control? I use experiential awareness and expressive arts to create a space to develop insight in order to grow and heal.
(281) 868-5037 View (281) 868-5037
Photo of Rachel M Abrman, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel M Abrman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77098
Sometimes we find ourselves feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and sad with the way we've been living life. My clients seek transformation in their anxieties, relationships, traumas and personal life. We explore who we are and how relationships, conflicts or insecurities effect our well being. I utilize EMDR, DBT, and CBT modalities with clients to work through challenges. I invite you to embrace courage and bravery to find meaning. "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves” - Victor Frankl.
Sometimes we find ourselves feeling anxious, overwhelmed, and sad with the way we've been living life. My clients seek transformation in their anxieties, relationships, traumas and personal life. We explore who we are and how relationships, conflicts or insecurities effect our well being. I utilize EMDR, DBT, and CBT modalities with clients to work through challenges. I invite you to embrace courage and bravery to find meaning. "When we are no longer able to change a situation, we are challenged to change ourselves” - Victor Frankl.
(281) 843-3486 View (281) 843-3486
Photo of Mylie Greenbach, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mylie Greenbach
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Sugar Land, TX 77498  (Online Only)
I am a licensed professional counselor and a Ph.D. candidate with clinical experience starting in 2005. I assist individuals, couples, and families in resolving issues such as ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Behavioral Issues, Aging, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Career Counseling, Codependency, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Life Coaching, Family Conflict, Emotional Disturbance, Life Transitions, Job Stress, Grief, and many more. I use a mix of Couples ACT, EFT, EMDR, DBT, CBT, MBCT, and many more. I believe in building on my client's strengths to attain the growth and changes they want to achieve.
I am a licensed professional counselor and a Ph.D. candidate with clinical experience starting in 2005. I assist individuals, couples, and families in resolving issues such as ADHD, Anger Management, Anxiety, Coping Skills, Behavioral Issues, Aging, Bipolar Disorder, Borderline Personality, Career Counseling, Codependency, Depression, Domestic Abuse/Violence, Life Coaching, Family Conflict, Emotional Disturbance, Life Transitions, Job Stress, Grief, and many more. I use a mix of Couples ACT, EFT, EMDR, DBT, CBT, MBCT, and many more. I believe in building on my client's strengths to attain the growth and changes they want to achieve.
(682) 342-2713 View (682) 342-2713
Photo of Alison Childers, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alison Childers
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
I utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, and I am EMDR Certified, an EMDR Consultant, & EMDR Trainer.
I enjoy collaborating with clients to help them in their journey toward healing, growing ... and thriving! Therapy is both a partnership and process which can empower clients to experience such changes as healing of past hurts/abuse/trauma, increased self-management of emotions and stressors, healthier relationships, behavior and thought process changes, and individual growth.
I utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy, and I am EMDR Certified, an EMDR Consultant, & EMDR Trainer.
I enjoy collaborating with clients to help them in their journey toward healing, growing ... and thriving! Therapy is both a partnership and process which can empower clients to experience such changes as healing of past hurts/abuse/trauma, increased self-management of emotions and stressors, healthier relationships, behavior and thought process changes, and individual growth.
(281) 816-4673 View (281) 816-4673
Photo of Courtney Shaw, MS, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Courtney Shaw
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77058
I am trained in many therapeutic modalities including Person-Centered Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I believe that individuals are unique; each possessing their OWN worldview, which, ultimately, would make you the expert of your own life. Sometimes in life, we need assistance in our journey towards the realization and fulfillment of our own talents and potentials: self-actualization. I assist my clients by enabling them to move towards openness, developing a greater trust in themselves, building the willingness to process, and increase self-realization. All while providing a non-judgmental environment where your personal life experiences are heard, and you are valued as the unique human being that you are.
I am trained in many therapeutic modalities including Person-Centered Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT).
I believe that individuals are unique; each possessing their OWN worldview, which, ultimately, would make you the expert of your own life. Sometimes in life, we need assistance in our journey towards the realization and fulfillment of our own talents and potentials: self-actualization. I assist my clients by enabling them to move towards openness, developing a greater trust in themselves, building the willingness to process, and increase self-realization. All while providing a non-judgmental environment where your personal life experiences are heard, and you are valued as the unique human being that you are.
(281) 688-5030 View (281) 688-5030
Photo of Cole Kiker, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Cole Kiker
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77056  (Online Only)
I operate from a person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral approach and also utilize EMDR therapy so that I can tailor my approach to best fit your needs.
Are you experiencing challenging and complicated emotional issues associated with depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, or addiction? Do you need a space where you can be open and raw? Are you a first responder, overwhelmed parent, busy entrepreneur, or mental health professional? If any of this is true, you're in the right place. We all go through life with our own individual struggles and our own lived life experiences, and by default, we know ourselves better than anyone else. Utilizing my 13 years of experience, my goal is to guide you and help you succeed in managing the issues that life has put in your path.
I operate from a person-centered, solution-focused, cognitive behavioral approach and also utilize EMDR therapy so that I can tailor my approach to best fit your needs.
Are you experiencing challenging and complicated emotional issues associated with depression, bipolar, anxiety, trauma, grief/loss, or addiction? Do you need a space where you can be open and raw? Are you a first responder, overwhelmed parent, busy entrepreneur, or mental health professional? If any of this is true, you're in the right place. We all go through life with our own individual struggles and our own lived life experiences, and by default, we know ourselves better than anyone else. Utilizing my 13 years of experience, my goal is to guide you and help you succeed in managing the issues that life has put in your path.
(409) 204-7712 View (409) 204-7712
Photo of Jodi Arego, MA, LPC
Jodi Arego
MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Spring, TX 77379
I'm EMDR trained & integrate Biblically-guided Christian counseling if requested.
Life can be much different than what we expected it would be like, right? Sure, on the outside, it might look to others like you have it all together... but no matter how hard you try, the reality you're experiencing is actually far from that. Your emotional energy is totally depleted. Your relationships are strained. You fight feelings of emptiness or that you're not enough. You're plagued with indecision and feel stuck. Maybe you even feel guilty that someone like you should be able to just "get over it" or "deal with it" on your own— and this guilt only perpetuates the negative cycle you’re stuck in.
I'm EMDR trained & integrate Biblically-guided Christian counseling if requested.
Life can be much different than what we expected it would be like, right? Sure, on the outside, it might look to others like you have it all together... but no matter how hard you try, the reality you're experiencing is actually far from that. Your emotional energy is totally depleted. Your relationships are strained. You fight feelings of emptiness or that you're not enough. You're plagued with indecision and feel stuck. Maybe you even feel guilty that someone like you should be able to just "get over it" or "deal with it" on your own— and this guilt only perpetuates the negative cycle you’re stuck in.
(832) 402-7284 View (832) 402-7284
Photo of Matthew Bailey, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Matthew Bailey
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Spring, TX 77379
He is fully trained in EMDR.
With almost 30 years of experience in Christian ministry, Matthew has transitioned to counsel in the private practice setting. He is passionately pursuing the goal of helping others heal from past hurts, find freedom in areas of struggle, grow in confidence, and thrive in life and relationships. He has provided counseling for individuals, families, and groups in church settings, private practices, a psychiatric hospital, and an outpatient mental health facility. He has been married for 24 years and is a father to 5 children.
He is fully trained in EMDR.
With almost 30 years of experience in Christian ministry, Matthew has transitioned to counsel in the private practice setting. He is passionately pursuing the goal of helping others heal from past hurts, find freedom in areas of struggle, grow in confidence, and thrive in life and relationships. He has provided counseling for individuals, families, and groups in church settings, private practices, a psychiatric hospital, and an outpatient mental health facility. He has been married for 24 years and is a father to 5 children.
(281) 767-2714 View (281) 767-2714
Photo of Priscilla Carrera, MAEdS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Priscilla Carrera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MAEdS, LPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
The Woodlands, TX 77380
Waitlist for new clients
I tend to utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to work with clients but tailor my approach to each individual client.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I have always known that helping people was what I wanted to do. I believe that we all do the best that we can with what is presented to us but can get stuck trying to manage life's challenges and dealing with past, impactful experiences. I believe that, with a willingness to reflect on self and to try new skills, anyone can change and regain control of his or her life. I really enjoy helping clients work through traumatic experiences but also work with general anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and everyday stress.
I tend to utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to work with clients but tailor my approach to each individual client.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and I have always known that helping people was what I wanted to do. I believe that we all do the best that we can with what is presented to us but can get stuck trying to manage life's challenges and dealing with past, impactful experiences. I believe that, with a willingness to reflect on self and to try new skills, anyone can change and regain control of his or her life. I really enjoy helping clients work through traumatic experiences but also work with general anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and everyday stress.
(281) 954-3685 View (281) 954-3685
Photo of Mary Spurlin, MA, LPC, CAMS-I, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Spurlin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CAMS-I
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Houston, TX 77002
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps you learn healthy coping skills and desensitize the effects of traumatic memories.
Are you struggling with painful memories that keep you up at night? Are you wondering if life will ever be normal again? Do you feel like no one understands? You are not alone. Many adults wonder if life will ever get better, after experiencing trauma, grief or difficult relationships. Imagine if you didn’t have to feel this way. It can be a challenge, but people do experience joy again. I make it my goal to be a safe place for those who want to explore concerns, work through painful memories, increase insight and learn healthier ways of coping with life’s challenges.
Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) helps you learn healthy coping skills and desensitize the effects of traumatic memories.
Are you struggling with painful memories that keep you up at night? Are you wondering if life will ever be normal again? Do you feel like no one understands? You are not alone. Many adults wonder if life will ever get better, after experiencing trauma, grief or difficult relationships. Imagine if you didn’t have to feel this way. It can be a challenge, but people do experience joy again. I make it my goal to be a safe place for those who want to explore concerns, work through painful memories, increase insight and learn healthier ways of coping with life’s challenges.
(430) 243-5505 View (430) 243-5505
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.