EMDR Therapists in Murphy, TX

Photo of Shania Alexander, MS, LMFT-A, EMDR-t, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Shania Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, LMFT-A, EMDR-t
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Murphy, TX 75094
I focus on solutions, action, and change; I also offer EMDR therapy.
Everyone needs somebody to lean on. But what happens when the pressure is too much or goes unnoticed? I see it, I acknowledge the weight and sacrifice. A lot of the time, I believe, humans just need a little validation; a reminder that they matter and their efforts mean something. I've seen that the people with the biggest hearts suffer the most, out of protection for others and unfortunately put their quality of life on the backburner. I remind my clients of the beauty of their own heart, their innate potential, and the power of self worth. We have one life to live, why not truly live it.
I focus on solutions, action, and change; I also offer EMDR therapy.
Everyone needs somebody to lean on. But what happens when the pressure is too much or goes unnoticed? I see it, I acknowledge the weight and sacrifice. A lot of the time, I believe, humans just need a little validation; a reminder that they matter and their efforts mean something. I've seen that the people with the biggest hearts suffer the most, out of protection for others and unfortunately put their quality of life on the backburner. I remind my clients of the beauty of their own heart, their innate potential, and the power of self worth. We have one life to live, why not truly live it.
(972) 694-7117 View (972) 694-7117
Photo of Vanessa Gill - Counseling Center of North Texas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Counseling Center of North Texas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Murphy, TX 75094
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
***Now offering telehealth services*** Counseling Center of North Texas has multiple therapists with the education, experience, and desire to help you or a loved one with whatever obstacles you may face including conflict with family, relationships, school, and/or work, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other mental health disorders, grief/trauma, stressful life events, adoptions, domestic violence, child abuse and neglect, and self-harm/other unhealthy coping skills. Christian counseling is available. We see children 3 and up, adolescents, adults, and seniors for individual, marital, family, and group counseling.
(469) 275-4107 View (469) 275-4107
Photo of Abigail (Abby) Dowell, MA, NCC
Abigail (Abby) Dowell
LPC Associate, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Murphy, TX 75094
Embarking on a journey to healing involves exploring the intricacies of the mind, and I'm here to be your compassionate companion. You are here because you are searching for something. I understand what it feels like to be stuck and hope to help my clients achieve those full-circle moments to gain new footing. Each client brings their unique story, and together with the therapist, they embark on a collaborative journey to cultivate strength, resilience, and a sense of well-being. I aim to create a warm, approachable environment where healing unfolds as shared exploration, fostering growth and empowerment.
Embarking on a journey to healing involves exploring the intricacies of the mind, and I'm here to be your compassionate companion. You are here because you are searching for something. I understand what it feels like to be stuck and hope to help my clients achieve those full-circle moments to gain new footing. Each client brings their unique story, and together with the therapist, they embark on a collaborative journey to cultivate strength, resilience, and a sense of well-being. I aim to create a warm, approachable environment where healing unfolds as shared exploration, fostering growth and empowerment.
(214) 239-1231 View (214) 239-1231
Photo of Rachael Taliancich, MA, LPC, RPT
Rachael Taliancich
MA, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Murphy, TX 75094
Are you noticing any changes in your child's behavior or emotions that you'd like to explore further? Have you considered how play therapy could support your child's social and emotional development? Have you and your child gone through changes that have impacted their overall well-being? As a registered play therapist, I specialize in working with children aged 4 and older. I believe in the significance of supporting parents by offering parenting guidance, a compassionate presence, and empathetic understanding as we address the concerns you may have.
Are you noticing any changes in your child's behavior or emotions that you'd like to explore further? Have you considered how play therapy could support your child's social and emotional development? Have you and your child gone through changes that have impacted their overall well-being? As a registered play therapist, I specialize in working with children aged 4 and older. I believe in the significance of supporting parents by offering parenting guidance, a compassionate presence, and empathetic understanding as we address the concerns you may have.
(972) 433-9763 View (972) 433-9763
Photo of Reagan L Daniel, AuD, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Reagan L Daniel
Licensed Professional Counselor, AuD, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Murphy, TX 75094
Where do you need healing and connection in your life? Let's work together through the beauty and pain of your unique identity to discover who you truly are. Let's unearth your past, examine your present, and explore what needs to change for your future. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing care in the Plano, TX area where I strive to create a safe place of authenticity, compassion, and life-changing work.
Where do you need healing and connection in your life? Let's work together through the beauty and pain of your unique identity to discover who you truly are. Let's unearth your past, examine your present, and explore what needs to change for your future. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor providing care in the Plano, TX area where I strive to create a safe place of authenticity, compassion, and life-changing work.
(972) 474-1496 View (972) 474-1496
Photo of Nance' Ann Headley, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nance' Ann Headley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Murphy, TX 75094
I firmly believe in the power of personal connection. I understand that each individual is unique, with their own set of experiences, struggles, and aspirations. It is through fostering a genuine and empathetic relationship that I can truly help my clients navigate their challenges. In today's fast-paced world, where technology often replaces face-to-face interactions, personal connection has become more crucial than ever. I prioritize creating a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can freely express themselves.
I firmly believe in the power of personal connection. I understand that each individual is unique, with their own set of experiences, struggles, and aspirations. It is through fostering a genuine and empathetic relationship that I can truly help my clients navigate their challenges. In today's fast-paced world, where technology often replaces face-to-face interactions, personal connection has become more crucial than ever. I prioritize creating a safe and non-judgmental space where individuals can freely express themselves.
(469) 833-4433 View (469) 833-4433

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christian Gray Hering, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christian Gray Hering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75083  (Online Only)
My approach combines compassionate listening with proven techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and EMDR.
Do you feel trapped by irrational fears and worries? Are you avoiding places or activities because of anxiety? Have obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors started to control your life? Anxiety and panic can make daily life feel like a constant battle. Obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors may offer some relief in the moment but end up taking over your life. If you're tired of living on edge, avoiding social situations, or feeling trapped in cycles of obsessive thinking and behavior, I can help.
My approach combines compassionate listening with proven techniques like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), exposure and response prevention (ERP), and EMDR.
Do you feel trapped by irrational fears and worries? Are you avoiding places or activities because of anxiety? Have obsessive thoughts or compulsive behaviors started to control your life? Anxiety and panic can make daily life feel like a constant battle. Obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors may offer some relief in the moment but end up taking over your life. If you're tired of living on edge, avoiding social situations, or feeling trapped in cycles of obsessive thinking and behavior, I can help.
(972) 619-9605 View (972) 619-9605
Photo of Dr. Tancy C. Horn Johnson Lcsw-S, EMDRCIT, SEP, DARTT, CEDS-C, TCTSY-F, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Tancy C. Horn Johnson Lcsw-S
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EMDRCIT, SEP, DARTT, CEDS-C, TCTSY-F
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75002
These include: EMDR/EMDRIA, Somatic Experiencing, , Interpersonal Neurobiology, Intuitive Eating, Exposure Therapy, TCTSY Yoga, HOCI/PIT, Gestalt, Empty Chair work.
ERP Certified for OCD, EMDR-Consultant-In-Training; Accepting TX LMSW for LCSW Clinical Supervision; Accepting LCSW, LPC or LMFT in USA for Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) with International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP). As a CEDS-C, I’m here to guide you in changing your relationship with food. For anyone ready to address past trauma experiences, I am use an eclectic approach, and may use the Healing Our Core Issues (HOCI) model, to examine family of origin trauma, the work of Jan Bergstrom, LMHC, SEP, DARTT, and Dr. Rick Butts, who were intensely trained by Pia Mellody/The Meadows.
These include: EMDR/EMDRIA, Somatic Experiencing, , Interpersonal Neurobiology, Intuitive Eating, Exposure Therapy, TCTSY Yoga, HOCI/PIT, Gestalt, Empty Chair work.
ERP Certified for OCD, EMDR-Consultant-In-Training; Accepting TX LMSW for LCSW Clinical Supervision; Accepting LCSW, LPC or LMFT in USA for Certified Eating Disorder Specialist (CEDS) with International Association of Eating Disorder Professionals (IAEDP). As a CEDS-C, I’m here to guide you in changing your relationship with food. For anyone ready to address past trauma experiences, I am use an eclectic approach, and may use the Healing Our Core Issues (HOCI) model, to examine family of origin trauma, the work of Jan Bergstrom, LMHC, SEP, DARTT, and Dr. Rick Butts, who were intensely trained by Pia Mellody/The Meadows.
(254) 239-0784 View (254) 239-0784
Photo of Janie Stubblefield - Janie Stubblefield - Mobile Counseling, PLLC, MA, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janie Stubblefield - Mobile Counseling, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
Richardson, TX 75080  (Online Only)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma.
Now scheduling telehealth sessions. The goal of Mobile Counseling is to create a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can explore their own emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential by meeting each client where they are most comfortable - in our office, at their home, or online. I have professionally served individuals, families, and children for more than a decade. Using cognitive therapy techniques and psycho-education as the backbone for treatment planning, I can help you develop a clear plan for improving your life and important life relationships.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma.
Now scheduling telehealth sessions. The goal of Mobile Counseling is to create a supportive therapeutic environment where clients can explore their own emotional needs and overcome barriers that limit their full potential by meeting each client where they are most comfortable - in our office, at their home, or online. I have professionally served individuals, families, and children for more than a decade. Using cognitive therapy techniques and psycho-education as the backbone for treatment planning, I can help you develop a clear plan for improving your life and important life relationships.
(214) 307-8853 View (214) 307-8853
Photo of Ashley L. Moulton, MA, LPC, LCDC, ADHD-CC, EMDR-T, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ashley L. Moulton
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC, ADHD-CC, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
Frisco, TX 75036  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, ADHD-CCSP Certified, and EMDR-trained (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I graduated from the University of Houston-Victoria, I use a faith-based approach with a professional focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, specializing in ADHD therapy and ADHD coaching.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, ADHD-CCSP Certified, and EMDR-trained (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). I graduated from the University of Houston-Victoria, I use a faith-based approach with a professional focus on Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, specializing in ADHD therapy and ADHD coaching.
(361) 272-3780 View (361) 272-3780
Photo of Sarah Stoddard - Sarah Stoddard Re-Solution Journey, LMFT-A, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sarah Stoddard Re-Solution Journey
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, LMFT-A
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75025
Her state of the art treatment includes therapies like EMDR, mindfulness, IFS, and Trauma Focused CBT.
Do you find that some parts of your life feel stuck despite everything you try? No matter how strong someone is, we can all get stuck. When that happens, it can be tricky to see solutions and move forward to being the person you want to be. Relationship struggles can leave you feeling frustrated and disconnected-hungry for deeper, more meaningful connections with the people you care about. You aren’t sure what’s getting in the way, and you wonder what else you can possibly do. You want to appear like you have it all together and that your relationships are solid, but deep down, the struggle is real, and you are ready to change!
Her state of the art treatment includes therapies like EMDR, mindfulness, IFS, and Trauma Focused CBT.
Do you find that some parts of your life feel stuck despite everything you try? No matter how strong someone is, we can all get stuck. When that happens, it can be tricky to see solutions and move forward to being the person you want to be. Relationship struggles can leave you feeling frustrated and disconnected-hungry for deeper, more meaningful connections with the people you care about. You aren’t sure what’s getting in the way, and you wonder what else you can possibly do. You want to appear like you have it all together and that your relationships are solid, but deep down, the struggle is real, and you are ready to change!
(945) 273-0793 View (945) 273-0793
Photo of Lauren Gastorf, MEd, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lauren Gastorf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC-S
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
I also offer EMDR.
Whether you're seeking to know yourself on a deeper level, healing from trauma, or experiencing a difficult transition, counseling is an incredible source of support. I believe in a collaborative, compassionate, holistic approach to help you feel your best and live your best life.
I also offer EMDR.
Whether you're seeking to know yourself on a deeper level, healing from trauma, or experiencing a difficult transition, counseling is an incredible source of support. I believe in a collaborative, compassionate, holistic approach to help you feel your best and live your best life.
(972) 347-0782 View (972) 347-0782
Photo of Lily Ha, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lily Ha
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75013
Additionally, I am EMDR Certified and focus a lot of my work on trauma related issues.
Through my experience, I have to come to learn that counseling is most beneficial when possibilities of hope, healing, and action are developed through meaningful conversations. I see that my role as a therapist is to help patients to explore their life's narratives such that it enables them to explore new alternatives in order to develop new meaning in theirs lives.
Additionally, I am EMDR Certified and focus a lot of my work on trauma related issues.
Through my experience, I have to come to learn that counseling is most beneficial when possibilities of hope, healing, and action are developed through meaningful conversations. I see that my role as a therapist is to help patients to explore their life's narratives such that it enables them to explore new alternatives in order to develop new meaning in theirs lives.
(972) 770-4853 View (972) 770-4853
Photo of Tammy Blodgett, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tammy Blodgett
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75025
Waitlist for new clients
Therapies used are cognitive behavioral, DBT, insight oriented, solution focused therapy, education and EMDR.
My passion is to identify the root cause of distress and resolve those issues that may be preventing you from experiencing life fully. I provide counseling services for adults experiencing a crisis, recent trauma, or on-going distress, while others may seek personal growth and development. Treatment is customized to meet your individual goals and unique needs.
Therapies used are cognitive behavioral, DBT, insight oriented, solution focused therapy, education and EMDR.
My passion is to identify the root cause of distress and resolve those issues that may be preventing you from experiencing life fully. I provide counseling services for adults experiencing a crisis, recent trauma, or on-going distress, while others may seek personal growth and development. Treatment is customized to meet your individual goals and unique needs.
(214) 717-6797 View (214) 717-6797
Photo of Lesbian Therapist-Cara Waters, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lesbian Therapist-Cara Waters
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
I use IFS and EMDR, among other modalities, to help clients heal from traumatic experiences.
I serve the LGBTQ+ community, but my practice is welcoming to everyone. I provide individual and couple counseling to those dealing with trauma, addiction and codependence/relational issues. I incorporate experiential therapy when talk therapy isn't enough. Clients will not only gain self-awareness during our sessions but will also begin to understand the "why" that influences their behaviors. Clients will be educated and empowered throughout our sessions together. You can learn more information about me and my practice by visiting www.healingwaters111.com.
I use IFS and EMDR, among other modalities, to help clients heal from traumatic experiences.
I serve the LGBTQ+ community, but my practice is welcoming to everyone. I provide individual and couple counseling to those dealing with trauma, addiction and codependence/relational issues. I incorporate experiential therapy when talk therapy isn't enough. Clients will not only gain self-awareness during our sessions but will also begin to understand the "why" that influences their behaviors. Clients will be educated and empowered throughout our sessions together. You can learn more information about me and my practice by visiting www.healingwaters111.com.
(469) 770-7544 View (469) 770-7544
Photo of Casey Leamy, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Casey Leamy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
Nothing in life is one size fits all; therapy is no exception. My first priority is to establish a trusting relationship with you, then together create goals tailored to your individual needs. As humans, we tend to shy away from uncomfortable, unwanted, or overwhelming feelings/thoughts. We all develop habits to cope; sometimes those habits may no longer be helpful. In a non-judgmental and safe environment, we will work together, unlock your potential and create the change you desire. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor and fully trained in EMDR in Texas.
(469) 778-4625 View (469) 778-4625
Photo of Kelley Connell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelley Connell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75094
I am also trained in EMDR.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. I am privileged to counsel with adolescents age 15 and above, individuals and couples. Through counseling, I provide increased awareness and understanding of one's thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how one can develop more positive experiences in many areas of life. My therapy approach is interactive and solution focused utilizing various counseling methods to help you learn new skills and gain new insights. I collaborate with you to achieve healing and growth, emotionally, intellectually, behaviorally and spiritually.
I am also trained in EMDR.
I have been in private practice for over 30 years. I am privileged to counsel with adolescents age 15 and above, individuals and couples. Through counseling, I provide increased awareness and understanding of one's thoughts, feelings and behaviors and how one can develop more positive experiences in many areas of life. My therapy approach is interactive and solution focused utilizing various counseling methods to help you learn new skills and gain new insights. I collaborate with you to achieve healing and growth, emotionally, intellectually, behaviorally and spiritually.
(972) 532-9535 View (972) 532-9535
Photo of Elen Redford, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR TR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elen Redford
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, EMDR TR
Verified Verified
Allen, TX 75002
I am EMDR trained, CSAT candidate and DBT skills trained to provide a comprehensive approach to address life's transitions, addictions, help you identify and build boundaries.
Addiction has been a large part of my life and career, I have enjoyed helping families understand and set boundaries with their loved ones in addiction, and those working towards sobriety or reevaluating their relationship with alcohol and substances. I believe in keeping a direct, open and honest environment when working together to identify the best course of action and coping skills to help you reduce and manage depression, anxiety. Let's see if together we find the path to achieve your goals and help create boundaries in order to improve quality of life.
I am EMDR trained, CSAT candidate and DBT skills trained to provide a comprehensive approach to address life's transitions, addictions, help you identify and build boundaries.
Addiction has been a large part of my life and career, I have enjoyed helping families understand and set boundaries with their loved ones in addiction, and those working towards sobriety or reevaluating their relationship with alcohol and substances. I believe in keeping a direct, open and honest environment when working together to identify the best course of action and coping skills to help you reduce and manage depression, anxiety. Let's see if together we find the path to achieve your goals and help create boundaries in order to improve quality of life.
(972) 764-8902 View (972) 764-8902
Photo of Laurie Todd, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Laurie Todd
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Allen, TX 75002
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor Supervisor in the state of Texas. I graduated with a MS in Counseling from Southern Methodist University. Throughout my career I have had experience in working with clients who have depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, personality disorders, dissociative identity disorder, schizoaffective disorder, gender/identity struggles, life adjustment stressors, grief, phobias, and PTSD/trauma. I am trained to treat clients with PTSD and trauma through Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM).
(702) 766-4674 View (702) 766-4674
Photo of Vanessa Vaughter, LCSW, MDiv, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa Vaughter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MDiv
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Richardson, TX 75080
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and consultant, equipped to treat trauma in teens and adults of all orientations and identities.
Some days life is great, others we get bogged down in our busyness, work stress, family conflicts, school pressures and well, just drama. Coping some days is easy - others, it's tough just to get out of bed. Whether you just need a sounding board, struggle with anxiety/depression, have a history of trauma or you're not sure why life is tough, there is help. I seek to create an open, accepting environment to listen. I offer treatment options that bring health and wholeness. My goal is to create safe space for you to achieve yours.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and consultant, equipped to treat trauma in teens and adults of all orientations and identities.
Some days life is great, others we get bogged down in our busyness, work stress, family conflicts, school pressures and well, just drama. Coping some days is easy - others, it's tough just to get out of bed. Whether you just need a sounding board, struggle with anxiety/depression, have a history of trauma or you're not sure why life is tough, there is help. I seek to create an open, accepting environment to listen. I offer treatment options that bring health and wholeness. My goal is to create safe space for you to achieve yours.
(972) 299-8593 View (972) 299-8593

See more therapy options for Murphy

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.