EMDR Therapists in Johnson City, TX

Photo of Kristine S. Miller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristine S. Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Johnson City, TX 78636
Pssst! Hey there! Yes, YOU! The one feeling stressed, exhausted and beyond overwhelmed! Your life may have been in balance before, with time for family, friends, and a successful career, but now everything has become so chaotic. Your fights are intensifying, infidelity may be present, your workload is insane, and loneliness pervades your days. You are on edge or shut down most of the time. And you're worried because no matter how hard you try, nothing seems to work. You just want it all to stop. This could be a sign of unresolved trauma - I get it, and I'm here to help. Don't give up, I'm here to listen and guide you through.
Pssst! Hey there! Yes, YOU! The one feeling stressed, exhausted and beyond overwhelmed! Your life may have been in balance before, with time for family, friends, and a successful career, but now everything has become so chaotic. Your fights are intensifying, infidelity may be present, your workload is insane, and loneliness pervades your days. You are on edge or shut down most of the time. And you're worried because no matter how hard you try, nothing seems to work. You just want it all to stop. This could be a sign of unresolved trauma - I get it, and I'm here to help. Don't give up, I'm here to listen and guide you through.
(830) 219-4377 View (830) 219-4377

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Melissa Forrest-Garcia, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Forrest-Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78665  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or difficulty overcoming patterns that keep you from living your best life? I specialize in helping clients address many issues related to emotional balance and well being. We may work on healing self-sabotaging beliefs, building healthy boundaries, managing anxiety, feeling into layers of grief, forming healthy coping strategies for everyday stressors, and learning effective and authentic communication skills. I offer attachment-focused EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to address trauma and PTSD complexes.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression or difficulty overcoming patterns that keep you from living your best life? I specialize in helping clients address many issues related to emotional balance and well being. We may work on healing self-sabotaging beliefs, building healthy boundaries, managing anxiety, feeling into layers of grief, forming healthy coping strategies for everyday stressors, and learning effective and authentic communication skills. I offer attachment-focused EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to address trauma and PTSD complexes.
(512) 957-6292 View (512) 957-6292
Photo of Caroline Williams, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Caroline Williams
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78665
If you are experiencing difficulties in your life and ready to start exploring how to create a different path, therapy is a great place to start. I have experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. Trauma, big and small, can play a large role in how we view our world and how we react and interact in our daily lives. There are a lot of tools that can be helpful in creating a life that feels different and more manageable. EMDR therapy is one of the tools I use most often in my work and have found it helpful in addressing a variety of primary concerns.
If you are experiencing difficulties in your life and ready to start exploring how to create a different path, therapy is a great place to start. I have experience working with individuals from diverse backgrounds and life experiences. Trauma, big and small, can play a large role in how we view our world and how we react and interact in our daily lives. There are a lot of tools that can be helpful in creating a life that feels different and more manageable. EMDR therapy is one of the tools I use most often in my work and have found it helpful in addressing a variety of primary concerns.
(512) 764-3476 View (512) 764-3476
Photo of Danielle Dawson, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Dawson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78665
I use EMDR, Attachment-based & Trauma-informed approaches, Trust Based Relational Intervention, Person-Centered Therapy, psychological education, Prepare/Enrich Premarital Counseling, & Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Life can be beautiful and wonderful! It can also be overwhelming and painful at times. Feeling understood, cared about & listened to are profound human needs that are often neglected. Starting therapy can be intimidating; however, having a supportive, safe & comfortable outlet can be helpful in working toward healing, growing and thriving. I am here to listen and help you process what is weighing on you with EMDR & other evidence-based approaches. I will encourage your strengths, offer information (knowledge is power) to help you grow, collaborate with you to form your goals and help you with practical steps to achieve those goals.
I use EMDR, Attachment-based & Trauma-informed approaches, Trust Based Relational Intervention, Person-Centered Therapy, psychological education, Prepare/Enrich Premarital Counseling, & Emotionally Focused Therapy.
Life can be beautiful and wonderful! It can also be overwhelming and painful at times. Feeling understood, cared about & listened to are profound human needs that are often neglected. Starting therapy can be intimidating; however, having a supportive, safe & comfortable outlet can be helpful in working toward healing, growing and thriving. I am here to listen and help you process what is weighing on you with EMDR & other evidence-based approaches. I will encourage your strengths, offer information (knowledge is power) to help you grow, collaborate with you to form your goals and help you with practical steps to achieve those goals.
(737) 215-3982 View (737) 215-3982
Photo of Steven Thornhill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Steven Thornhill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
With expertise in EMDR, CBT, and mindfulness-based techniques, I offer a holistic approach to healing.
With strong dedication to serving those who have served our nation and communities, I bring a unique blend of personal experience and professional expertise to my practice. As a Veteran of the United States Army, an amputee, and a seasoned first responder with 15 years of service, I have developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in these roles and their families. Having navigated the complexities of military life, the adjustments of living as an amputee, and the stressfulness of first responder duties, I am well-equipped to empathize with and support individuals dealing with a multitude of challenges.
With expertise in EMDR, CBT, and mindfulness-based techniques, I offer a holistic approach to healing.
With strong dedication to serving those who have served our nation and communities, I bring a unique blend of personal experience and professional expertise to my practice. As a Veteran of the United States Army, an amputee, and a seasoned first responder with 15 years of service, I have developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in these roles and their families. Having navigated the complexities of military life, the adjustments of living as an amputee, and the stressfulness of first responder duties, I am well-equipped to empathize with and support individuals dealing with a multitude of challenges.
(737) 352-5216 View (737) 352-5216
Photo of James Maxwell, LPC, MEd, MA, RYT, Licensed Professional Counselor
James Maxwell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MEd, MA, RYT
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
Over 30 years of experience in counseling couples and individuals, I use my skills and training in Imago therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, Ericksonian Hypnosis, and Self-Relations Therapy to help you navigate changes in your life and relationships.
A quote by Milton Erickson that inspires us to view therapy as a way to manage change: "People come for therapy not to change their past but their future." - and there are so many changes these days! Managing change with creativity and insight creates new opportunities and revitalizes relationships. When experiencing change do you struggle with lack of motivation, depressive moods, self-defeating self talk, or poor self-confidence? Counseling helps you gain insight into your underlying feelings and motivations, envision new possibilities for yourself or your relationship, and clarify conflicting emotions.
Over 30 years of experience in counseling couples and individuals, I use my skills and training in Imago therapy, EMDR, Brainspotting, Ericksonian Hypnosis, and Self-Relations Therapy to help you navigate changes in your life and relationships.
A quote by Milton Erickson that inspires us to view therapy as a way to manage change: "People come for therapy not to change their past but their future." - and there are so many changes these days! Managing change with creativity and insight creates new opportunities and revitalizes relationships. When experiencing change do you struggle with lack of motivation, depressive moods, self-defeating self talk, or poor self-confidence? Counseling helps you gain insight into your underlying feelings and motivations, envision new possibilities for yourself or your relationship, and clarify conflicting emotions.
(512) 548-4405 View (512) 548-4405
Photo of Griselda Pattillo, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Griselda Pattillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
I am also EMDR trained.
Currently accepting new clients, in person & virtually! Life is tough but you are not alone. When you feel it is time to talk, I am here to listen. Together we can find a path of healing and recovery out of difficult situations. As we discuss your situation, I am always listening for a solution. Healing is a journey and it starts now. I am your advocate for navigating through life’s challenges. Please call/text for a free 10min consultation. For faster response, please email or text 512-887-2760.
I am also EMDR trained.
Currently accepting new clients, in person & virtually! Life is tough but you are not alone. When you feel it is time to talk, I am here to listen. Together we can find a path of healing and recovery out of difficult situations. As we discuss your situation, I am always listening for a solution. Healing is a journey and it starts now. I am your advocate for navigating through life’s challenges. Please call/text for a free 10min consultation. For faster response, please email or text 512-887-2760.
(512) 488-5234 View (512) 488-5234
Photo of Matthew Harmon - Good Reason Therapy PLLC; Therapy and Supervision, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Good Reason Therapy PLLC; Therapy and Supervision
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665  (Online Only)
Have you found yourself caught in a cycle of thinking that you aren't capable or that things won't improve? Do you experience intense anxiety, feel on edge or worry what others think about you? Do relationship challenges leave you feeling isolated or misunderstood? Together, we'll analyze your situation and take easy practical steps towards improving your life. I am a solution-oriented therapist who primarily uses a new form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TEAM-CBT. I also offer EMDR . In addition to private practice, I am a Texas board approved clinical supervisor, and am currently accepting LMSWs seeking supervision.
Have you found yourself caught in a cycle of thinking that you aren't capable or that things won't improve? Do you experience intense anxiety, feel on edge or worry what others think about you? Do relationship challenges leave you feeling isolated or misunderstood? Together, we'll analyze your situation and take easy practical steps towards improving your life. I am a solution-oriented therapist who primarily uses a new form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TEAM-CBT. I also offer EMDR . In addition to private practice, I am a Texas board approved clinical supervisor, and am currently accepting LMSWs seeking supervision.
(512) 572-9381 View (512) 572-9381
Photo of Katie Keeney, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Katie Keeney
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78665  (Online Only)
Katie utilizes an eclectic approach specifically designed to meet each clients individual needs and uses techniques from Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Expressive Art Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Somatic Therapy, among others.
Katie Keeney is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from University of Texas-Arlington and her Master's degree in Education from Duquesne University. Katie helps individuals, children, couples, and families in their journey toward peace and healing. Katie's counseling style is rooted in compassion, allowing clients a safe place to feel heard, known, and accepted as they face the struggles they experience.
Katie utilizes an eclectic approach specifically designed to meet each clients individual needs and uses techniques from Dialectic Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotional Focused Therapy (EFT), Expressive Art Therapy, Attachment Theory, and Somatic Therapy, among others.
Katie Keeney is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Texas who has been practicing since 2019. She earned her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from University of Texas-Arlington and her Master's degree in Education from Duquesne University. Katie helps individuals, children, couples, and families in their journey toward peace and healing. Katie's counseling style is rooted in compassion, allowing clients a safe place to feel heard, known, and accepted as they face the struggles they experience.
(737) 252-4066 View (737) 252-4066
Photo of Kelli Magallon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelli Magallon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78665
I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and EMDR.
We are all human, and that means we have a whole wheelhouse of emotions on any given day. Sometimes we find ourselves not feeling like anything is wrong, but more so feeling like nothing is really right. We feel stuck, isolated and like no matter how hard we try we aren't living the life we imagined. If that is you, I would love to work with you. My favorite piece of therapy is unsticking ourselves from our emotions and experiences, learning how to live in the here and now, and beginning to thrive, not just survive in our lives.
I am trained in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Gottman Couples Therapy, and EMDR.
We are all human, and that means we have a whole wheelhouse of emotions on any given day. Sometimes we find ourselves not feeling like anything is wrong, but more so feeling like nothing is really right. We feel stuck, isolated and like no matter how hard we try we aren't living the life we imagined. If that is you, I would love to work with you. My favorite piece of therapy is unsticking ourselves from our emotions and experiences, learning how to live in the here and now, and beginning to thrive, not just survive in our lives.
(737) 345-3328 View (737) 345-3328
Photo of Patrice Hinton Oswalt, EdS, LPC, MHSP, Counselor
Patrice Hinton Oswalt
Counselor, EdS, LPC, MHSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78665
I am an Certified EMDR provider.
NOTICE: Teletherapy for all of Tennessee and Texas. In office for Texas only. I bring over 20 years of experience to my virtual personal and career counseling practice, offering you the opportunity to learn skills and maintain your progress. We are the same person at home that we are at work. I am able to diagnose and treat multiple mental health issues and help you create balance in your life. I approach our relationship by asking "if I helped you today, what would it look like?". More than "you talk, I listen", counseling with a purpose!
I am an Certified EMDR provider.
NOTICE: Teletherapy for all of Tennessee and Texas. In office for Texas only. I bring over 20 years of experience to my virtual personal and career counseling practice, offering you the opportunity to learn skills and maintain your progress. We are the same person at home that we are at work. I am able to diagnose and treat multiple mental health issues and help you create balance in your life. I approach our relationship by asking "if I helped you today, what would it look like?". More than "you talk, I listen", counseling with a purpose!
(512) 277-6535 View (512) 277-6535
Photo of Billy Stone, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Billy Stone
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
Bill is eclectic in his approach to therapy and pulls from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), compassionfocused therapy (CFT), culturallysensitive therapy (CSAT) eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulnessbased cognitive therapy (MBCT), and more.
Bill Stone is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas who has been practicing since 2005. He has a Master of Arts, Counseling and Student Personnel Services from Northwestern State University of Louisiana. Bill has worked with a mix of clientele in a variety of clinical settings and prefers working with adolescents, adults, and seniors who are struggling to cope with addiction, substance use, anxiety, depression, gender identity, transgender concerns, trauma LGBTQIA, and PTSD, among many other issues.
Bill is eclectic in his approach to therapy and pulls from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), compassionfocused therapy (CFT), culturallysensitive therapy (CSAT) eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), mindfulnessbased cognitive therapy (MBCT), and more.
Bill Stone is a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in Texas who has been practicing since 2005. He has a Master of Arts, Counseling and Student Personnel Services from Northwestern State University of Louisiana. Bill has worked with a mix of clientele in a variety of clinical settings and prefers working with adolescents, adults, and seniors who are struggling to cope with addiction, substance use, anxiety, depression, gender identity, transgender concerns, trauma LGBTQIA, and PTSD, among many other issues.
(737) 258-3941 View (737) 258-3941
Photo of Easton Falke, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Easton Falke
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
I am also trained in EMDR, a therapy that uses Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to help individuals recover from traumatic experience.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor having provided mental health services for the past 10 years as a dedicated therapist offering individual, group and family counseling to address issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, personality disorder, substance abuse, marriage/family, and many other cognitive and behavioral difficulties.
I am also trained in EMDR, a therapy that uses Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing to help individuals recover from traumatic experience.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor having provided mental health services for the past 10 years as a dedicated therapist offering individual, group and family counseling to address issues related to anxiety, depression, trauma, psychosis, personality disorder, substance abuse, marriage/family, and many other cognitive and behavioral difficulties.
(512) 688-4303 View (512) 688-4303
Photo of Isabel Velazquez, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Isabel Velazquez
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
I'm also trained in EMDR and CPT to treat trauma.
You may have been a pro at "white knuckling" through all the chaos life threw your way, but now find yourself feeling depleted, overwhelmed, and unable to express or control your emotions. Maybe you never thought you would "need" therapy, but now you find yourself searching for help, unsure where to start, and let's be real, most of our therapy profiles seem the same. I get how overwhelming this is, but it doesn't need to be. I'll meet you where you're at, whether you need to ease into this therapy process or you want to cut straight to the source of whatever is disturbing you.
I'm also trained in EMDR and CPT to treat trauma.
You may have been a pro at "white knuckling" through all the chaos life threw your way, but now find yourself feeling depleted, overwhelmed, and unable to express or control your emotions. Maybe you never thought you would "need" therapy, but now you find yourself searching for help, unsure where to start, and let's be real, most of our therapy profiles seem the same. I get how overwhelming this is, but it doesn't need to be. I'll meet you where you're at, whether you need to ease into this therapy process or you want to cut straight to the source of whatever is disturbing you.
(512) 548-8551 View (512) 548-8551
Photo of Marwa Kelley - Marwa Kelley Counseling PLLC, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Marwa Kelley Counseling PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78665
My Ideal client is someone who wants to create change, be the best version of themselves they can be, and live a more healthy positive life.
My Ideal client is someone who wants to create change, be the best version of themselves they can be, and live a more healthy positive life.
(361) 238-5056 View (361) 238-5056
Photo of Ruben J Garcia - Doable Recovery Institute, MA, LCDC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Doable Recovery Institute
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MA, LCDC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78665
RJ García is a Central Texan with over thirty-five years of serving the recovery community. RJ earned a Master of Arts in Addiction Counseling from the world-renowned Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies at the Center City, Minnesota alcohol and drug addiction treatment center. HGSAS offered a unique curriculum that integrates theory, science and clinical practice. RJ is a member of the American Counseling Association. RJ is bilingual in both English and Spanish. RJ has a special blend of experience in recovery in educational services, health expertise in interventions, therapy, and heroic habits coaching.
RJ García is a Central Texan with over thirty-five years of serving the recovery community. RJ earned a Master of Arts in Addiction Counseling from the world-renowned Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School of Addiction Studies at the Center City, Minnesota alcohol and drug addiction treatment center. HGSAS offered a unique curriculum that integrates theory, science and clinical practice. RJ is a member of the American Counseling Association. RJ is bilingual in both English and Spanish. RJ has a special blend of experience in recovery in educational services, health expertise in interventions, therapy, and heroic habits coaching.
(512) 540-5033 View (512) 540-5033
Photo of Jennifer Yoon, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Yoon
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
Looking for some peace? Joy? Making the decision to start counseling is a brave one. With all the unknowns, it's important to know what your counselor brings to the table. I offer compassion, truth, structure, and accountability. We will work together to create a plan that meets your needs, highlights your strengths, and encourages growth. That being said, my clients should come prepared to engage, learn, and work through new skills and techniques. Counseling may be challenging at times, but I am always rooting for you to succeed. Lasting change is the goal. There is no need to tiptoe around any issues, let's get to work!
Looking for some peace? Joy? Making the decision to start counseling is a brave one. With all the unknowns, it's important to know what your counselor brings to the table. I offer compassion, truth, structure, and accountability. We will work together to create a plan that meets your needs, highlights your strengths, and encourages growth. That being said, my clients should come prepared to engage, learn, and work through new skills and techniques. Counseling may be challenging at times, but I am always rooting for you to succeed. Lasting change is the goal. There is no need to tiptoe around any issues, let's get to work!
(512) 337-1106 View (512) 337-1106
Photo of Lindsey Heselbarth, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lindsey Heselbarth
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78665
My passion and experience for helping others create a warm, trusting atmosphere where clients can share their stories and process their feelings. Each person is the expert on their own life, and so, together, we develop healthy strategies that will lead to emotional health, greater self-esteem, and improved relationships. My work is guided by the belief that all people have inherent value and can experience positive change.
My passion and experience for helping others create a warm, trusting atmosphere where clients can share their stories and process their feelings. Each person is the expert on their own life, and so, together, we develop healthy strategies that will lead to emotional health, greater self-esteem, and improved relationships. My work is guided by the belief that all people have inherent value and can experience positive change.
(512) 402-3037 View (512) 402-3037
Photo of Erasmo Trevino Jr - Vital Insight- Grow With Coach Mo, MEd, BSP
Vital Insight- Grow With Coach Mo
MEd, BSP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Round Rock, TX 78665
I specialize in facilitating clients’ self-growth by helping them create and carry out life changing goals. If you are feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands or stuck in an unwanted place, my services aim to introduce clarity and self-motivation. Learn how to get rid of negative emotions and old patterns to empower yourself and get what you want! Sometimes failures, rejections and baggage can deeply hurt and create discomfort or negative emotions creating stuck states. We have ALL been there!
I specialize in facilitating clients’ self-growth by helping them create and carry out life changing goals. If you are feeling overwhelmed by life’s demands or stuck in an unwanted place, my services aim to introduce clarity and self-motivation. Learn how to get rid of negative emotions and old patterns to empower yourself and get what you want! Sometimes failures, rejections and baggage can deeply hurt and create discomfort or negative emotions creating stuck states. We have ALL been there!
(512) 598-9764 View (512) 598-9764
Photo of Linda Mikesic - Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Three Oaks Counseling & Psychiatry
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Round Rock, TX 78665
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
We are a group of talented and experienced mental health clinicians that provides counseling and medication management all across Austin and greater Texas. We have offices in West Lake Hills, Georgetown, and Dripping Springs. We also provide telehealth service anywhere in Texas.
(512) 675-1823 View (512) 675-1823

See more therapy options for Johnson City

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.