EMDR Therapists in San Marcos, TX

Photo of Kimberly Cross, LCSW, MHR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Cross
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MHR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
I am an EMDR trained, trauma-informed, warrior therapist who has had to face difficult situations myself, have learned from my own trauma, have grown in ways I never thought possible. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist not only do I use my educational background, but also life lessons to assist other women who are in the midst of their journey, no matter what that journey is; depression, anxiety or fear. Fear comes in many forms. Trauma comes in many forms. Micro-aggressions leveled at you from work and home all can play a role in how you have navigated life; how you have lost your way at times.
I am an EMDR trained, trauma-informed, warrior therapist who has had to face difficult situations myself, have learned from my own trauma, have grown in ways I never thought possible. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Psychotherapist not only do I use my educational background, but also life lessons to assist other women who are in the midst of their journey, no matter what that journey is; depression, anxiety or fear. Fear comes in many forms. Trauma comes in many forms. Micro-aggressions leveled at you from work and home all can play a role in how you have navigated life; how you have lost your way at times.
(830) 283-5383 View (830) 283-5383
Photo of Jenn Popovich, LPCS, EMDRCIT, SAP, TCYM, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jenn Popovich
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCS, EMDRCIT, SAP, TCYM
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
I've been trained in EMDR since 2013, certified since 2019, and a CIT (consultant in training) since 2023.
**NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** "I just need a break!" Are you stuck in a pattern and can't find your way out? It can seem like you can't stop doing things that will hurt you in the long run. You find yourself saying, "This is just how I am." The story you believe about yourself- about what you deserve - is what will manifest. That narrative will run your life until you dismantle it, & rewrite it. If you aren't running it, it is running you. " The story always wins™ ". My approach is to help you figure out where you learned these things, & discard those that cause you pain & are no longer productive.
I've been trained in EMDR since 2013, certified since 2019, and a CIT (consultant in training) since 2023.
**NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS** "I just need a break!" Are you stuck in a pattern and can't find your way out? It can seem like you can't stop doing things that will hurt you in the long run. You find yourself saying, "This is just how I am." The story you believe about yourself- about what you deserve - is what will manifest. That narrative will run your life until you dismantle it, & rewrite it. If you aren't running it, it is running you. " The story always wins™ ". My approach is to help you figure out where you learned these things, & discard those that cause you pain & are no longer productive.
(512) 549-6810 View (512) 549-6810
Photo of Karen Pace Poland, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Karen Pace Poland
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
I also have extra training is the area of trauma, using EMDR therapy.
Hi, I am Karen Pace Poland, Texas Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been a counselor for 15 years in the Houston area and recently moved to San Marcos. I enjoy working with clients in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I also have interest in life transitions and how changes cause us to reevaluate areas such as relationships, faith, or personal boundaries.
I also have extra training is the area of trauma, using EMDR therapy.
Hi, I am Karen Pace Poland, Texas Licensed Professional Counselor. I have been a counselor for 15 years in the Houston area and recently moved to San Marcos. I enjoy working with clients in the areas of trauma, anxiety, depression, and relationship issues. I also have interest in life transitions and how changes cause us to reevaluate areas such as relationships, faith, or personal boundaries.
(512) 982-6291 View (512) 982-6291
Photo of Lora Hufton, LPC, EMDR , Licensed Professional Counselor
Lora Hufton
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I can also offer EMDR work.
"I don't want to do these unhealthy things, but I just feel like I can't stop." Sound like something you have thought or said lately? If we don't process why we are doing the behaviors that cause us pain, we will just keep doing it. If we don't trace back where our abusive internal dialogue came from, we continue those thoughts. Are you tired? I can help.
In addition to traditional talk therapy, I can also offer EMDR work.
"I don't want to do these unhealthy things, but I just feel like I can't stop." Sound like something you have thought or said lately? If we don't process why we are doing the behaviors that cause us pain, we will just keep doing it. If we don't trace back where our abusive internal dialogue came from, we continue those thoughts. Are you tired? I can help.
(512) 229-9968 View (512) 229-9968
Photo of Ashley Richey, LCSW-S, EMDR, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ashley Richey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, EMDR, PLLC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
I believe that our most basic human instinct is to feel connected to others and to ourselves, and I will use evidence-based practices to help you improve these connections. I understand that fear, anxiety, pain, and grief can all block our paths towards connection and healing, and I realize how broken relationships can turn into life-long regret and hurt. My goal is to individualize each treatment plan to your personal needs and areas of growth by emphasizing strengths, unlearning negative beliefs, overcoming fears, and inspiring you to create new paths towards healing. I am fully trained in EMDR and ERP to better meet your needs.
I believe that our most basic human instinct is to feel connected to others and to ourselves, and I will use evidence-based practices to help you improve these connections. I understand that fear, anxiety, pain, and grief can all block our paths towards connection and healing, and I realize how broken relationships can turn into life-long regret and hurt. My goal is to individualize each treatment plan to your personal needs and areas of growth by emphasizing strengths, unlearning negative beliefs, overcoming fears, and inspiring you to create new paths towards healing. I am fully trained in EMDR and ERP to better meet your needs.
(512) 764-1585 View (512) 764-1585
Photo of Christian Mitchell, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Christian Mitchell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
In addition, I have helped many feel less trapped by their trauma and the negative thoughts about themselves using EMDR.
Change is not easy sometimes and we will go through it with love towards self. It is our self-doubt and often our lack of confidence in our basic goodness that hinders our progress. I have helped many find the self-compassion needed for self-healing and with that a much more mindful approach to life. I have been down the road of mental health challenges. There are many ways I used therapy technics and mindfulness practice to help develop a much more balanced self. I am confident I can help you find the richness in life that you deserve.
In addition, I have helped many feel less trapped by their trauma and the negative thoughts about themselves using EMDR.
Change is not easy sometimes and we will go through it with love towards self. It is our self-doubt and often our lack of confidence in our basic goodness that hinders our progress. I have helped many find the self-compassion needed for self-healing and with that a much more mindful approach to life. I have been down the road of mental health challenges. There are many ways I used therapy technics and mindfulness practice to help develop a much more balanced self. I am confident I can help you find the richness in life that you deserve.
(512) 379-6879 View (512) 379-6879
Photo of Emari Smith, LPC, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Emari Smith
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR trained and HAES informed.
Whenever we experience interpersonal betrayal or abuse, we often feel as if we have lost a part of ourselves. We can experience a range of feelings such as shame, isolation and have difficulty offering ourselves compassion. After such pain, it can be hard to trust other people again as well as yourself. You may have trouble forming a healthy relationship with yourself and creating deep connections with other people. Together, we can create a safe space for you to find your voice, discover who you are, and build meaningful experiences again. My approach is to meet you where you are by working from your values and belief system.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor, EMDR trained and HAES informed.
Whenever we experience interpersonal betrayal or abuse, we often feel as if we have lost a part of ourselves. We can experience a range of feelings such as shame, isolation and have difficulty offering ourselves compassion. After such pain, it can be hard to trust other people again as well as yourself. You may have trouble forming a healthy relationship with yourself and creating deep connections with other people. Together, we can create a safe space for you to find your voice, discover who you are, and build meaningful experiences again. My approach is to meet you where you are by working from your values and belief system.
(512) 862-0842 View (512) 862-0842
Photo of Janel Scholtz, SEP, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Janel Scholtz
Licensed Professional Counselor, SEP, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
I am EMDR trained, Internal Family Systems trained (IFS) and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner.
Welcome! I am accepting new clients. I offer in person therapy in San Marcos, Texas. I offer online therapy for individuals and couples living in California. I am passionate about helping people live a full life, where they are not just surviving but thriving. How we interpret our experiences can cause us to become panicked, anxious, fearful, angry, depressed, numb or alone.
I am EMDR trained, Internal Family Systems trained (IFS) and a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner.
Welcome! I am accepting new clients. I offer in person therapy in San Marcos, Texas. I offer online therapy for individuals and couples living in California. I am passionate about helping people live a full life, where they are not just surviving but thriving. How we interpret our experiences can cause us to become panicked, anxious, fearful, angry, depressed, numb or alone.
(858) 264-3065 View (858) 264-3065
Photo of Lisa Hanusch - Lisa Hanusch PhD, PhD, Psychologist
Lisa Hanusch PhD
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
I am Trauma informed, EMDR trained, ETT trained, Gottman trained, and DEEP Experiential Trained.
I work with couples, women, and young adults (18+). I enjoy helping couples enhance their connection by identifying barriers and teaching skills. I have special training and experience helping couples recover from the trauma of infidelity. I work also with women (of all ages) with a variety of issues including self-esteem, boundaries, codependency, parenting, relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief - to name a few. I desire to see women fulfilled, whole, and empowered.
I am Trauma informed, EMDR trained, ETT trained, Gottman trained, and DEEP Experiential Trained.
I work with couples, women, and young adults (18+). I enjoy helping couples enhance their connection by identifying barriers and teaching skills. I have special training and experience helping couples recover from the trauma of infidelity. I work also with women (of all ages) with a variety of issues including self-esteem, boundaries, codependency, parenting, relationships, trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief - to name a few. I desire to see women fulfilled, whole, and empowered.
(512) 354-1591 View (512) 354-1591
Photo of Kristina Aiello, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristina Aiello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, LCDC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, EMDR Practitioner, US Air Force Vet, and mom.
Do you feel overwhelmed by negative thoughts and constant worry? Are you struggling to keep up with life's many demands? Do you need help processing complex emotions, working through grief or trauma, or just need someone to listen objectively? Healing from the pain of trauma and overcoming life's many hurdles is very much a part of my story. It is my own journey with counseling that helps lend to my passion for helping others. I believe we all have more power than we know. Helping people identify their barriers and grow beyond them is the best part of my work.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, EMDR Practitioner, US Air Force Vet, and mom.
Do you feel overwhelmed by negative thoughts and constant worry? Are you struggling to keep up with life's many demands? Do you need help processing complex emotions, working through grief or trauma, or just need someone to listen objectively? Healing from the pain of trauma and overcoming life's many hurdles is very much a part of my story. It is my own journey with counseling that helps lend to my passion for helping others. I believe we all have more power than we know. Helping people identify their barriers and grow beyond them is the best part of my work.
(512) 575-8653 View (512) 575-8653
Photo of Alice M Seitzer, LCSW, LCDC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alice M Seitzer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
I specialize in wilderness therapy, expressive arts therapies, and EMDR.
People and their stories have always inspired and humbled me. Helping others to walk through their shadows and experience the light is a true gift. Earlier in my life I went through some difficult experiences. The wilderness, music, art, and movement helped me to feel and learn to move through those hardships. My connection with the natural world has revealed my inner potential and helped me to heal from traumas. I am dedicated to incorporating my knowledge of therapy, relationship to the natural world, yoga and expressive arts for each person I work with. I believe in feeling all of the human emotions with balance and intention.
I specialize in wilderness therapy, expressive arts therapies, and EMDR.
People and their stories have always inspired and humbled me. Helping others to walk through their shadows and experience the light is a true gift. Earlier in my life I went through some difficult experiences. The wilderness, music, art, and movement helped me to feel and learn to move through those hardships. My connection with the natural world has revealed my inner potential and helped me to heal from traumas. I am dedicated to incorporating my knowledge of therapy, relationship to the natural world, yoga and expressive arts for each person I work with. I believe in feeling all of the human emotions with balance and intention.
(513) 307-2463 View (513) 307-2463
Photo of Collin Weekes, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Collin Weekes
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666  (Online Only)
I am a therapist, EMDR Therapist, Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, and proud graduate of Regent University where I earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I also have a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University. My focus includes depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. I conduct Immigration Evaluations using an integrative approach to therapy that includes various treatment modalities based on your therapeutic and personal needs. Because of my service in ministry, I am uniquely positioned to offer spiritual counseling from a Christian perspective at your request.
I am a therapist, EMDR Therapist, Certified Forensic Mental Health Evaluator, and proud graduate of Regent University where I earned a master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. I also have a Master's in Clinical Psychology from Fielding Graduate University. My focus includes depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD. I conduct Immigration Evaluations using an integrative approach to therapy that includes various treatment modalities based on your therapeutic and personal needs. Because of my service in ministry, I am uniquely positioned to offer spiritual counseling from a Christian perspective at your request.
(380) 207-1462 View (380) 207-1462
Photo of LeAnna Coulter, MA, LPC-S, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
LeAnna Coulter
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
I also utilize EMDR to address trauma that is possibly impacting your daily life.
Having a baby is a huge life transition individually and for the family. Change can happen in an instant but navigating your personal transition in response to that change takes time so it is important to nurture yourself through pregnancy and postpartum. During the perinatal period, anxiety can feel overwhelming especially if you are having scary thoughts and difficulty regulating emotions. You are not alone and at times motherhood is hard. It's okay to make yourself a priority and be mindful of what you are feeling and needing. When we take care of ourselves, we are then better equipped to be there for others in our life.
I also utilize EMDR to address trauma that is possibly impacting your daily life.
Having a baby is a huge life transition individually and for the family. Change can happen in an instant but navigating your personal transition in response to that change takes time so it is important to nurture yourself through pregnancy and postpartum. During the perinatal period, anxiety can feel overwhelming especially if you are having scary thoughts and difficulty regulating emotions. You are not alone and at times motherhood is hard. It's okay to make yourself a priority and be mindful of what you are feeling and needing. When we take care of ourselves, we are then better equipped to be there for others in our life.
(830) 268-4070 View (830) 268-4070
Photo of Andrew Michael Greene, LCSW, LCDC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Andrew Michael Greene
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCDC, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
I also offer EMDR therapy for unresolved trauma, CBT-I for sleep problems, and am currently in school completing my Doctorate in Psychology.
"Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated." -Confucius. My philosophy is this; you already know the answers to your problems, you just don't know that you know them yet. My job is to help you unlock the secrets to your own happiness and productivity. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families, and get tremendous fulfillment in seeing my clients succeed. No problem is unsolvable. Working with me will grant you greater stress tolerance and emotional resilience, as well as "mind-hacks" that will change how you deal with normal day-to-day life.
I also offer EMDR therapy for unresolved trauma, CBT-I for sleep problems, and am currently in school completing my Doctorate in Psychology.
"Life is really simple, but we insist on making it complicated." -Confucius. My philosophy is this; you already know the answers to your problems, you just don't know that you know them yet. My job is to help you unlock the secrets to your own happiness and productivity. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, and families, and get tremendous fulfillment in seeing my clients succeed. No problem is unsolvable. Working with me will grant you greater stress tolerance and emotional resilience, as well as "mind-hacks" that will change how you deal with normal day-to-day life.
(469) 515-7903 View (469) 515-7903
Photo of Rebecca Cook, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Cook
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
I have been certified in EMDR therapy for 5 years.
Are you struggling with trauma triggers, shame, anxiety, low mood, difficulty managing emotions, or unresolved challenges? Are you looking for a clear, direct, and effective path to healing from trauma or stressful events? Would you like to gain insight into your present behaviors and relationships? I help people with a variety of issues including trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, chronic illness, stress, life transitions, personal growth, grief and loss, self -esteem issues, and self-injurious behaviors.
I have been certified in EMDR therapy for 5 years.
Are you struggling with trauma triggers, shame, anxiety, low mood, difficulty managing emotions, or unresolved challenges? Are you looking for a clear, direct, and effective path to healing from trauma or stressful events? Would you like to gain insight into your present behaviors and relationships? I help people with a variety of issues including trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, chronic illness, stress, life transitions, personal growth, grief and loss, self -esteem issues, and self-injurious behaviors.
(512) 782-0044 View (512) 782-0044
Photo of Linda McGee Calvert, PhD, Psychologist
Linda McGee Calvert
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
I am certified in EMDR and have advanced training in Clinical Hypnosis.
I see good psychotherapy as a collaborative process guided by your needs. I strongly believe that individuals and families have inherent strengths that can help them deal effectively with their problems and make meaningful change. However, many people are too busy or too overwhelmed to figure out what changes they would like to make or to develop the strengths needed to make those changes. Fortunately, we've learned a lot in recent years about creating change--psychological, emotional, and behavioral. When you come in, we will work together to decide what changes you want to make and how.
I am certified in EMDR and have advanced training in Clinical Hypnosis.
I see good psychotherapy as a collaborative process guided by your needs. I strongly believe that individuals and families have inherent strengths that can help them deal effectively with their problems and make meaningful change. However, many people are too busy or too overwhelmed to figure out what changes they would like to make or to develop the strengths needed to make those changes. Fortunately, we've learned a lot in recent years about creating change--psychological, emotional, and behavioral. When you come in, we will work together to decide what changes you want to make and how.
(512) 948-3071 View (512) 948-3071
Photo of Jill A Lee, MA, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jill A Lee
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
When you are struggling, one of the most difficult things to do is ask for help. It takes courage, faith, and trust to reach out when life feels unmanageable or overwhelming. Yet taking that one step is often the very best thing you can do for yourself and those you love. I provide compassionate, competent counseling to teens and adults in individual, and family/group settings. I use individualized talk, play, and EMDR techniques to help clients set therapeutic goals and reach them.
When you are struggling, one of the most difficult things to do is ask for help. It takes courage, faith, and trust to reach out when life feels unmanageable or overwhelming. Yet taking that one step is often the very best thing you can do for yourself and those you love. I provide compassionate, competent counseling to teens and adults in individual, and family/group settings. I use individualized talk, play, and EMDR techniques to help clients set therapeutic goals and reach them.
(830) 266-5584 View (830) 266-5584
Photo of Stephanie Pinson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Pinson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Marcos, TX 78666
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Perhaps you've been struggling with painful emotions, communicating in your relationships, managing stress and anxiety, or working through previous painful experiences. I know how difficult life can feel and I believe in providing a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment in which we can collaboratively work to solve problems, improve coping skills, and find you the support you need. I also offer specialized treatment for individuals who experience painful emotions related to adverse life experiences through EMDR.
I am also trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Perhaps you've been struggling with painful emotions, communicating in your relationships, managing stress and anxiety, or working through previous painful experiences. I know how difficult life can feel and I believe in providing a supportive and nonjudgmental therapeutic environment in which we can collaboratively work to solve problems, improve coping skills, and find you the support you need. I also offer specialized treatment for individuals who experience painful emotions related to adverse life experiences through EMDR.
(512) 862-7515 View (512) 862-7515
Photo of Jill Hokanson, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill Hokanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
I also offer EMDR for resolving past trauma.
Hi! I am honored that you would consider entrusting me with your story. People usually come to me when they are feeling exhausted, unsure, or fed up with how things are going in their lives and hoping for relief and renewal. I specialize in therapy for helpers, pleasers, folks with anxiety, parents, adult children of immigrants, and women with difficult moms. I help people practice searching inside themselves to make sense of their feelings, discover what they need and want, create better boundaries, and bloom with confidence to go after their biggest goals.
I also offer EMDR for resolving past trauma.
Hi! I am honored that you would consider entrusting me with your story. People usually come to me when they are feeling exhausted, unsure, or fed up with how things are going in their lives and hoping for relief and renewal. I specialize in therapy for helpers, pleasers, folks with anxiety, parents, adult children of immigrants, and women with difficult moms. I help people practice searching inside themselves to make sense of their feelings, discover what they need and want, create better boundaries, and bloom with confidence to go after their biggest goals.
(737) 302-5029 View (737) 302-5029
Photo of Kerry Williamson - Abundant Life Counseling Services, PA, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST, Licensed Professional Counselor
Abundant Life Counseling Services, PA
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST
Verified Verified
San Marcos, TX 78666
Each therapist on our staff of 12 has unique specialties, including therapy for adults and teens, play therapy, marriage counseling, sex therapy, affair recovery, EFT, EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, family therapy, and premarital counseling.
Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., is a professional Christian counseling practice seeking to help people live and love more abundantly through practicing faith-based and traditional counseling methods. Each therapist on our staff is committed to helping you discover life beyond broken relationships, impaired thinking, painful behavior patterns, and debilitating intense emotions. You will be seen and known in your relational, emotional, psychological, or spiritual struggle, experiencing what it's like to be accepted, understood, and deeply challenged as your therapist joins you on a journey toward God's hope and healing.
Each therapist on our staff of 12 has unique specialties, including therapy for adults and teens, play therapy, marriage counseling, sex therapy, affair recovery, EFT, EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, family therapy, and premarital counseling.
Abundant Life Counseling Services, P.A., is a professional Christian counseling practice seeking to help people live and love more abundantly through practicing faith-based and traditional counseling methods. Each therapist on our staff is committed to helping you discover life beyond broken relationships, impaired thinking, painful behavior patterns, and debilitating intense emotions. You will be seen and known in your relational, emotional, psychological, or spiritual struggle, experiencing what it's like to be accepted, understood, and deeply challenged as your therapist joins you on a journey toward God's hope and healing.
(512) 846-9396 View (512) 846-9396
1
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.