EMDR Therapists in Plano, TX

Photo of Karoline Argo Riech, BA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karoline Argo Riech
Licensed Professional Counselor, BA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
My counseling approach is collaborative in nature, with the goal of providing a comfortable, warm environment for my clients. I incorporate different counseling techniques from a wide range of theories, but tend to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This type of therapy helps people overcome irrational, dysfunctional, and unhealthy thought processes that tend to add to and prolong emotional strain, trauma, and tension. I combine aspects such as EMDR, expressive arts, fitness, nutrition and nervous system regulation strategies into sessions.
My counseling approach is collaborative in nature, with the goal of providing a comfortable, warm environment for my clients. I incorporate different counseling techniques from a wide range of theories, but tend to work most heavily from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). This type of therapy helps people overcome irrational, dysfunctional, and unhealthy thought processes that tend to add to and prolong emotional strain, trauma, and tension. I combine aspects such as EMDR, expressive arts, fitness, nutrition and nervous system regulation strategies into sessions.
(214) 736-7493 View (214) 736-7493
Photo of Riley Nyberg, LPC-A, NCC, LPC Intern
Riley Nyberg
LPC Intern, LPC-A, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I have completed EMDR basic training.
Riley Nyberg is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate in the state of Texas and is under the supervision of Megan Krizan, M.Ed., LPC-S, RPT-S at Nova Cesta Counseling. She graduated with a M.S. in Counseling from Southern Methodist University in 2022.
I have completed EMDR basic training.
Riley Nyberg is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Associate in the state of Texas and is under the supervision of Megan Krizan, M.Ed., LPC-S, RPT-S at Nova Cesta Counseling. She graduated with a M.S. in Counseling from Southern Methodist University in 2022.
(469) 564-4641 View (469) 564-4641
Photo of Karen Cummings - Karen Cummings, LPC-S , MS, LPC-S, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Cummings, LPC-S
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I am also EMDR trained.
We all encounter various life challenges; maybe at different stages or under different circumstances but none of us should have to endure them alone. Sometimes we may need short-term support and sometimes ongoing support. Whether you simply need to hit the "restart" button to get back on track or "pause" for time to sort everything out, working together we can create and implement a plan to help you safely reach your personal dreams, desires and destination at your pace.
I am also EMDR trained.
We all encounter various life challenges; maybe at different stages or under different circumstances but none of us should have to endure them alone. Sometimes we may need short-term support and sometimes ongoing support. Whether you simply need to hit the "restart" button to get back on track or "pause" for time to sort everything out, working together we can create and implement a plan to help you safely reach your personal dreams, desires and destination at your pace.
(469) 425-2539 View (469) 425-2539
Photo of Julie Ann Gray, PsyD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Julie Ann Gray
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I am an empathic individual who is passionate about assisting others to achieve their fullest potential. I believe that every person has the power to change and to heal. I am open and receptive to working with people of all genders, faiths, ethnic groups and sexual orientations. I am confident that together we will work to resolve any issues you bring. I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR and have seen many clients heal from traumatic events using this modality. I also love working with people impacted by depression, anxiety and family issues surrounding addictions.
I am an empathic individual who is passionate about assisting others to achieve their fullest potential. I believe that every person has the power to change and to heal. I am open and receptive to working with people of all genders, faiths, ethnic groups and sexual orientations. I am confident that together we will work to resolve any issues you bring. I specialize in treating trauma using EMDR and have seen many clients heal from traumatic events using this modality. I also love working with people impacted by depression, anxiety and family issues surrounding addictions.
(469) 812-5670 View (469) 812-5670
Photo of John-Mark Meulman, MA, LPC, LCDC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John-Mark Meulman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCDC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist and I am trained in Brainspotting for resolving trauma.
Counseling is a second career for me after service in the US Navy and a successful business career. I have done extensive work in my own recovery and bring many insights from this to my practice. I love watching clients get curious about themselves and begin doing the work which will set them free. My diversity of life experiences helps me connect with virtually any one. I am doing what I was born to do and my passion fuels my drive and empathy.
I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist and I am trained in Brainspotting for resolving trauma.
Counseling is a second career for me after service in the US Navy and a successful business career. I have done extensive work in my own recovery and bring many insights from this to my practice. I love watching clients get curious about themselves and begin doing the work which will set them free. My diversity of life experiences helps me connect with virtually any one. I am doing what I was born to do and my passion fuels my drive and empathy.
(214) 277-3676 View (214) 277-3676
Photo of Earnell McGhaney, MS, NCC, VSP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Earnell McGhaney
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, VSP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75024  (Online Only)
I have received training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Somatic Experiencing, Trauma Focused CBT, and Gottman Couples Counseling.
“You are the expert on you.” This is a statement that I love sharing with my clients because I feel it emphasizes that you are the most important part of this relationship. Therapy is an opportunity to grow and explore oneself and I feel that the relationship between a client and therapist is of the utmost importance. I hold this relationship in high regard and look forward to walking along side you during this journey. I specialize in trauma counseling and marriage counseling. My goal in therapy is not just symptom reduction but liberation from suffering.
I have received training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Somatic Experiencing, Trauma Focused CBT, and Gottman Couples Counseling.
“You are the expert on you.” This is a statement that I love sharing with my clients because I feel it emphasizes that you are the most important part of this relationship. Therapy is an opportunity to grow and explore oneself and I feel that the relationship between a client and therapist is of the utmost importance. I hold this relationship in high regard and look forward to walking along side you during this journey. I specialize in trauma counseling and marriage counseling. My goal in therapy is not just symptom reduction but liberation from suffering.
(972) 694-6733 View (972) 694-6733
Photo of Tamara Ljubisic, MA, LPC, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tamara Ljubisic
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CST
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75074
I offer support in the form of traditional talk therapy, coupled with EMDR and/or Somatic Experiencing.
My belief around therapy is to focus on what you want to accomplish, drawing from strengths you already possess. My style tends to be more active and interactive. Often individuals and couples face an impasse & may realize they might not have the tools to move forward. For some, it may be an ongoing concern like managing anxiety/depression, enhancing communication, healing from 'the past'. For some, there is an experience or event that is prohibiting forward movement.
I offer support in the form of traditional talk therapy, coupled with EMDR and/or Somatic Experiencing.
My belief around therapy is to focus on what you want to accomplish, drawing from strengths you already possess. My style tends to be more active and interactive. Often individuals and couples face an impasse & may realize they might not have the tools to move forward. For some, it may be an ongoing concern like managing anxiety/depression, enhancing communication, healing from 'the past'. For some, there is an experience or event that is prohibiting forward movement.
(214) 935-3922 View (214) 935-3922
Photo of Tuba Fidan, MA, LPC-A, EMDR
Tuba Fidan
Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, MA, LPC-A, EMDR
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
Services Offered: Adolescent Counseling, EMDR Trauma counseling, Guidance Depression and Anxiety Therapy, and Career Counseling for teens &adults.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, cultural issues, or a challenging relationship that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, and career? Do you feel overwhelmed, and frustrated by just getting through the day, with the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? I specialize in helping passionate professional people who are struggling with anxiety and burnout to learn to put themselves first by setting healthy boundaries and leading more fulfilling lives.As an experienced counselor, I understand your fear. I believe living better shouldn’t be so hard.
Services Offered: Adolescent Counseling, EMDR Trauma counseling, Guidance Depression and Anxiety Therapy, and Career Counseling for teens &adults.
Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, cultural issues, or a challenging relationship that affects your day-to-day life, relationships, ability to function, and career? Do you feel overwhelmed, and frustrated by just getting through the day, with the thought that there’s no light at the end of the tunnel? I specialize in helping passionate professional people who are struggling with anxiety and burnout to learn to put themselves first by setting healthy boundaries and leading more fulfilling lives.As an experienced counselor, I understand your fear. I believe living better shouldn’t be so hard.
(972) 200-3861 View (972) 200-3861
Photo of Jodi Payson, MS, LPC, RPT, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jodi Payson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
Additionally, she has received training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Gestalt Therapy and Humanistic Sandtray Therapy.
Practice is accepting new clients at this time. Counseling begins with having the courage to take the first step toward change. Jodi's initial focus is to provide a safe, trusting environment to explore avenues of growth and development. Using a combination of techniques and activities, she strives to meet the individual needs of her clients. Jodi's experiences within the counseling field have allowed her to work in a variety of settings helping clients of diverse backgrounds, ages, and presenting concerns. Jodi earned a B.A. in Psychology from The University of Oklahoma and her M.S. in Counseling at Southern Methodist University.
Additionally, she has received training in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Gestalt Therapy and Humanistic Sandtray Therapy.
Practice is accepting new clients at this time. Counseling begins with having the courage to take the first step toward change. Jodi's initial focus is to provide a safe, trusting environment to explore avenues of growth and development. Using a combination of techniques and activities, she strives to meet the individual needs of her clients. Jodi's experiences within the counseling field have allowed her to work in a variety of settings helping clients of diverse backgrounds, ages, and presenting concerns. Jodi earned a B.A. in Psychology from The University of Oklahoma and her M.S. in Counseling at Southern Methodist University.
(972) 845-5554 View (972) 845-5554
Photo of Christy Doering, MSSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christy Doering
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you are suffering from trauma, grief, depression or mood and anxiety issues, you CAN feel better. You’re making a brave decision to seek help. I am honored to work every day with people who are making progress because of therapy. My 12 years of experience have equipped me with multiple tools to guide the process. I’m EMDRIA-certified in EMDR, and specially trained by Postpartum Support International in Maternal Mental Health. And I have extensive experience with Motherless Daughters and Survivors of Suicide.
If you are suffering from trauma, grief, depression or mood and anxiety issues, you CAN feel better. You’re making a brave decision to seek help. I am honored to work every day with people who are making progress because of therapy. My 12 years of experience have equipped me with multiple tools to guide the process. I’m EMDRIA-certified in EMDR, and specially trained by Postpartum Support International in Maternal Mental Health. And I have extensive experience with Motherless Daughters and Survivors of Suicide.
(972) 992-7937 View (972) 992-7937
Photo of Lynn McCracken, MS, LPC-S, LMFT-S, KAP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lynn McCracken
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S, LMFT-S, KAP
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75093
EMDR is also offered by one of my talented associates.
If you have been feeling "off", numb, lacking purpose, overwhelmed and burned out, you are not broken, you are just "out of tune"! Life can get us ALL out of tune from time to time, especially during times of transition, just like a guitar, we have to listen and adjust each string one by one. When we lose touch with your authentic selves, our thoughts, feelings and actions are not in alignment, we feel dissonant and it causes dis-ease in our bodies. I specialize in helping my clients navigate life transitions (such as loss of a loved one, divorce, a career pivot, retirement, health issues) to gain clarity and become more attuned.
EMDR is also offered by one of my talented associates.
If you have been feeling "off", numb, lacking purpose, overwhelmed and burned out, you are not broken, you are just "out of tune"! Life can get us ALL out of tune from time to time, especially during times of transition, just like a guitar, we have to listen and adjust each string one by one. When we lose touch with your authentic selves, our thoughts, feelings and actions are not in alignment, we feel dissonant and it causes dis-ease in our bodies. I specialize in helping my clients navigate life transitions (such as loss of a loved one, divorce, a career pivot, retirement, health issues) to gain clarity and become more attuned.
(469) 949-1142 View (469) 949-1142
Photo of Qian 'Mimi' Desmarais, MS, LPC, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Qian 'Mimi' Desmarais
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075
Thank you for your visit! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, parents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I specialize in play therapy and EMDR trauma counseling. With a set of skills, a sense of humor, and a genuine heart to help, I aim to help achieve your optimal emotional state and self-exploration in a safe environment. I will assist you or your child to instill hope, learn coping skills, manage symptoms, and have a newfound perspective on the path of healing.
Thank you for your visit! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Play Therapist who enjoys working with children, adolescents, parents, and adults with a variety of concerns. I specialize in play therapy and EMDR trauma counseling. With a set of skills, a sense of humor, and a genuine heart to help, I aim to help achieve your optimal emotional state and self-exploration in a safe environment. I will assist you or your child to instill hope, learn coping skills, manage symptoms, and have a newfound perspective on the path of healing.
(940) 220-3854 View (940) 220-3854
Photo of Kim Kopenhaver, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kim Kopenhaver
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience providing impactful, intelligent, and compassionate therapy to clients of varying ages and presenting concerns. I utilize a collaborative and engaging style to create a space for therapy to become an expansion of how clients perceive their struggles in a broader view. I am certified in EMDR therapy which is an effective treatment for trauma, anxiety, depression, and for when people feel stuck in other treatments. I also provide individual, family, and couple's therapy.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 15 years of experience providing impactful, intelligent, and compassionate therapy to clients of varying ages and presenting concerns. I utilize a collaborative and engaging style to create a space for therapy to become an expansion of how clients perceive their struggles in a broader view. I am certified in EMDR therapy which is an effective treatment for trauma, anxiety, depression, and for when people feel stuck in other treatments. I also provide individual, family, and couple's therapy.
(469) 382-5790 View (469) 382-5790
Photo of Joan Weathersbee Ellason - Dr Joan Weathersbee Ellason PhD LPC, PhD, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dr Joan Weathersbee Ellason PhD LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75074
I am EMDR certified and trained in treating issues involving relationships, stress, and trauma.
My primary goal is to help people achieve their highest potential and purpose in life, with the freedom to be who they were meant to be. Having worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 3 decades, it is my dedicated honor to be able to help people grow and heal both emotionally and spiritually. I have published a sound, innovative approach to healing and recovery. More information is available at www.drjwe.com and drjoanweathersbee.com Best way to reach me is by phone.
I am EMDR certified and trained in treating issues involving relationships, stress, and trauma.
My primary goal is to help people achieve their highest potential and purpose in life, with the freedom to be who they were meant to be. Having worked with individuals, couples, and families for over 3 decades, it is my dedicated honor to be able to help people grow and heal both emotionally and spiritually. I have published a sound, innovative approach to healing and recovery. More information is available at www.drjwe.com and drjoanweathersbee.com Best way to reach me is by phone.
(469) 529-8969 View (469) 529-8969
Photo of Amy Doar, MS, LPC-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amy Doar
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC-S
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
I'm so glad you stopped by! I am a solution focused, person-centered, EMDR trained counselor who offers a wide variety of approaches. Counseling should never be a "one size fits all" solution. Working with me is a journey into mindfulness, self-awareness, and personal growth. My office is a safe space, and I would be delighted to see you there. I provide Telehealth to the entire state of Texas, and in-person counseling to Collin and Dallas counties. I also provide Supervision to LPC-Associates. I have an easily accessible and comfortable private office situated on 190 between Hwy 75 and the Dallas North Tollway.
I'm so glad you stopped by! I am a solution focused, person-centered, EMDR trained counselor who offers a wide variety of approaches. Counseling should never be a "one size fits all" solution. Working with me is a journey into mindfulness, self-awareness, and personal growth. My office is a safe space, and I would be delighted to see you there. I provide Telehealth to the entire state of Texas, and in-person counseling to Collin and Dallas counties. I also provide Supervision to LPC-Associates. I have an easily accessible and comfortable private office situated on 190 between Hwy 75 and the Dallas North Tollway.
(469) 966-2117 View (469) 966-2117
Photo of Kristen Cairns, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristen Cairns
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75023
I am trained in EMDR and utilize it as a supplement for trauma work, when appropriate and desired by the client.
I specialize in working with women with eating disorders, pregnancy and postpartum challenges, and trauma (of all kinds). I use a collaborative counseling approach and highly value the therapist-client relationship. As a therapist, I am committed to establishing a safe place for you to process current struggles, identify and explore the deeper “root issues,” and improve coping and daily functioning.
I am trained in EMDR and utilize it as a supplement for trauma work, when appropriate and desired by the client.
I specialize in working with women with eating disorders, pregnancy and postpartum challenges, and trauma (of all kinds). I use a collaborative counseling approach and highly value the therapist-client relationship. As a therapist, I am committed to establishing a safe place for you to process current struggles, identify and explore the deeper “root issues,” and improve coping and daily functioning.
(972) 441-7718 View (972) 441-7718
Photo of Alyssa Nicole Williamson, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alyssa Nicole Williamson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75093
If you have been through multiple rounds of treatment for your eating disorder, and never found relief, I would love to work together. I have had the JOY of helping many of my clients find hope and healing for the first time using a trauma focused approach and EMDR. I founded Embodied Counseling, where we specialize in last ditch attempts at recovery. We know chronic illness, trauma, or other complicating factors make traditional treatment less effective, and want you to have the individualized care you need. Our team believes that eating disorders are not a choice, but that full recovery is possible with the right support!
If you have been through multiple rounds of treatment for your eating disorder, and never found relief, I would love to work together. I have had the JOY of helping many of my clients find hope and healing for the first time using a trauma focused approach and EMDR. I founded Embodied Counseling, where we specialize in last ditch attempts at recovery. We know chronic illness, trauma, or other complicating factors make traditional treatment less effective, and want you to have the individualized care you need. Our team believes that eating disorders are not a choice, but that full recovery is possible with the right support!
(972) 268-7839 View (972) 268-7839
Photo of Lisa R Davisson - Lisa Davisson, LPC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa Davisson, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75024
If you find yourself saying, "I know I shouldn't feel or think this way, but I just do," then EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy may be the treatment approach for you.
I strive to create a caring, compassionate, understanding, and supportive environment where you can feel safe and comfortable enough to discuss your important issues. I deeply respect you and your inner resources and ability to move towards growth and wholeness. My goal is to help you mobilize your hidden strengths while affirming your ability to grow using a custom tailored approach that will best fit your needs and help you reach your goals. During our initial sessions we will work together to create a treatment plan and set goals for therapy.
If you find yourself saying, "I know I shouldn't feel or think this way, but I just do," then EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy may be the treatment approach for you.
I strive to create a caring, compassionate, understanding, and supportive environment where you can feel safe and comfortable enough to discuss your important issues. I deeply respect you and your inner resources and ability to move towards growth and wholeness. My goal is to help you mobilize your hidden strengths while affirming your ability to grow using a custom tailored approach that will best fit your needs and help you reach your goals. During our initial sessions we will work together to create a treatment plan and set goals for therapy.
(214) 919-5163 View (214) 919-5163
Photo of Carolyn Arnold, MA, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Carolyn Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Plano, TX 75075  (Online Only)
I am EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy trained and have a background in higher education counseling as well.
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, or depressed? Having trouble finding your purpose? Are you ready for the next step but not sure where to start? Maybe you have been through something that you know it's time to process. Whether you know what you want to work on or you need some help figuring it out, I can help you get started on your journey. I am passionate about helping people live happier, healthier, more productive lives. I believe that each client is unique and deserves individualized therapy based on what works best for them.
I am EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy trained and have a background in higher education counseling as well.
Are you feeling stuck, anxious, or depressed? Having trouble finding your purpose? Are you ready for the next step but not sure where to start? Maybe you have been through something that you know it's time to process. Whether you know what you want to work on or you need some help figuring it out, I can help you get started on your journey. I am passionate about helping people live happier, healthier, more productive lives. I believe that each client is unique and deserves individualized therapy based on what works best for them.
(214) 972-0722 View (214) 972-0722
Photo of Dr. Enny Torres, PsyD, LP, Psychologist
Dr. Enny Torres
Psychologist, PsyD, LP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Plano, TX 75075
Waitlist for new clients
I also incorporate CBT, mindfulness, EMDR, and coping skills.
It takes a lot of courage and bravery to seek out support and take the first step to make personal changes. I am here to help you begin a new journey towards more of your authentic self. This path will focus on self-compassion, acceptance, empowerment, and self-love. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space that encourages healing, growth, honesty, and unconditional regard. I want you to know that multicultural, diversity, and affirming therapy root and drives my practice and work with clients. I strive to provide a place you can explore current and past unresolved experiences including interpersonal unhealthy relationships.
I also incorporate CBT, mindfulness, EMDR, and coping skills.
It takes a lot of courage and bravery to seek out support and take the first step to make personal changes. I am here to help you begin a new journey towards more of your authentic self. This path will focus on self-compassion, acceptance, empowerment, and self-love. I strive to provide a safe and supportive space that encourages healing, growth, honesty, and unconditional regard. I want you to know that multicultural, diversity, and affirming therapy root and drives my practice and work with clients. I strive to provide a place you can explore current and past unresolved experiences including interpersonal unhealthy relationships.
(940) 514-8823 View (940) 514-8823
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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.