EMDR Therapists in West Lake Hills, TX

Photo of Colin Moss, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Colin Moss
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
I also use EMDR to facilitate the brains natural healing ability.
The life we live and the life we want do not always match up. Funny enough, life some times gets in the way of the life we want. I believe that we can live an authentic life with meaningful connections that makes suffering through hard stuff worth it. A person is more than their problems, thoughts, and feelings. I like to work with individuals on figuring out what kind of life they want, and how to persist through tough times to achieve it.
I also use EMDR to facilitate the brains natural healing ability.
The life we live and the life we want do not always match up. Funny enough, life some times gets in the way of the life we want. I believe that we can live an authentic life with meaningful connections that makes suffering through hard stuff worth it. A person is more than their problems, thoughts, and feelings. I like to work with individuals on figuring out what kind of life they want, and how to persist through tough times to achieve it.
(737) 204-8094 View (737) 204-8094
Photo of Juli Hartmann, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Juli Hartmann
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746  (Online Only)
With over two decades background of knowledge, I can use various specialties such as EMDR, holistic approaches, etc.
Life can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to. Are you looking for someone who will listen to you when you talk, to actually hear what you are saying and understand you as a whole person, by learning what you've been through? Maybe you could benefit from a scientific point of view that helps you unbiasedly reassess your current thinking and allow you to be more aware of your personal values.
With over two decades background of knowledge, I can use various specialties such as EMDR, holistic approaches, etc.
Life can feel overwhelming, but it doesn't have to. Are you looking for someone who will listen to you when you talk, to actually hear what you are saying and understand you as a whole person, by learning what you've been through? Maybe you could benefit from a scientific point of view that helps you unbiasedly reassess your current thinking and allow you to be more aware of your personal values.
(817) 592-9293 View (817) 592-9293
Photo of Carla Pelcastre, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carla Pelcastre
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
My expertise lies in complex trauma, skills building, and behavioral management, supported by training in modalities such as TBRI, Somatic therapy, and EMDR.
Immediate availability. As a seasoned therapist specializing in supporting teens navigating big emotions, parents seeking guidance, and adults facing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and burnout, I understand the complexities of the human experience. My passion lies in supporting neurodivergent individuals in a neurotypical world, offering individual therapy, parent coaching, and family therapy. In our sessions, we delve into the impact of your lived experiences and cultural influences, empowering you to understand and care for yourself on a deeper level.
My expertise lies in complex trauma, skills building, and behavioral management, supported by training in modalities such as TBRI, Somatic therapy, and EMDR.
Immediate availability. As a seasoned therapist specializing in supporting teens navigating big emotions, parents seeking guidance, and adults facing life transitions, anxiety, depression, and burnout, I understand the complexities of the human experience. My passion lies in supporting neurodivergent individuals in a neurotypical world, offering individual therapy, parent coaching, and family therapy. In our sessions, we delve into the impact of your lived experiences and cultural influences, empowering you to understand and care for yourself on a deeper level.
(737) 258-8608 View (737) 258-8608
Photo of Maxine Bettis-Arnold, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Maxine Bettis-Arnold
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
I am a certified EMDR therapist.
It takes courage to seek help and it is important to feel heard, understood and safe in the therapy relationship. I focus on building a strong relationship with the client that allows us to explore areas of concern and start the healing process. My belief in the capacity to change thinking patterns, emotional reactions and behaviors helps clients identify strengths, gain insight and help develop coping strategies. We work with therapeutic resources to help families, couples and individuals accomplish their goals.
I am a certified EMDR therapist.
It takes courage to seek help and it is important to feel heard, understood and safe in the therapy relationship. I focus on building a strong relationship with the client that allows us to explore areas of concern and start the healing process. My belief in the capacity to change thinking patterns, emotional reactions and behaviors helps clients identify strengths, gain insight and help develop coping strategies. We work with therapeutic resources to help families, couples and individuals accomplish their goals.
(720) 307-3797 View (720) 307-3797
Photo of Marissa Blankenship, LCSW
Marissa Blankenship
LCSW
Verified Verified
West Lake Hills, TX 78746  (Online Only)
I am certified in CBT, TBRI, and EMDR.
Welcome! Often I hear am I broken? Is there hope? Will it get better? Will I get better? Can I get through my past? The answer is yes. This is the first step to become a better you. My end goal is to empower you to address the struggles head on and then overcome them. I will then support you on your journey to reach the goals that you desire.
I am certified in CBT, TBRI, and EMDR.
Welcome! Often I hear am I broken? Is there hope? Will it get better? Will I get better? Can I get through my past? The answer is yes. This is the first step to become a better you. My end goal is to empower you to address the struggles head on and then overcome them. I will then support you on your journey to reach the goals that you desire.
(512) 598-6593 View (512) 598-6593
Photo of Hannah Neely, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Neely
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
My commonly used therapeutic modalities are DBT, ACT, CBT and EMDR.
If you want to work on your relationship to food & body, heal pain in your history, and increase self-compassion, I'd love to walk with you. In our sessions, we will explore who you are and what matters to you. We will tackle thought patterns that aren't serving you and work on new ways to interact with your thoughts and feelings that serve you more effectively. I have found that the clients I am most "in my element" with are teens and young adults. When working with teens, I also work with parents to help them navigate supporting their teen at home.
My commonly used therapeutic modalities are DBT, ACT, CBT and EMDR.
If you want to work on your relationship to food & body, heal pain in your history, and increase self-compassion, I'd love to walk with you. In our sessions, we will explore who you are and what matters to you. We will tackle thought patterns that aren't serving you and work on new ways to interact with your thoughts and feelings that serve you more effectively. I have found that the clients I am most "in my element" with are teens and young adults. When working with teens, I also work with parents to help them navigate supporting their teen at home.
(512) 883-6646 View (512) 883-6646
Photo of Ben Meyers
Ben Meyers
LPC Associate
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
We all attempt to live a good life, but sometimes we feel empty, hopeless or like we're holding ourselves back. I utilize a combination of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment-based therapy, EMDR, and somatic work to empower you to be your authentic self no matter the trauma. In my work I collaborate with my clients to find ways of being that are sustainable and long-term. Whether it's addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or trauma, we will hold space to grow our ability to be mindful, to be in tune with our bodies, and be connected with those around us.
We all attempt to live a good life, but sometimes we feel empty, hopeless or like we're holding ourselves back. I utilize a combination of Internal Family Systems (IFS), Attachment-based therapy, EMDR, and somatic work to empower you to be your authentic self no matter the trauma. In my work I collaborate with my clients to find ways of being that are sustainable and long-term. Whether it's addiction, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, or trauma, we will hold space to grow our ability to be mindful, to be in tune with our bodies, and be connected with those around us.
(512) 714-2275 View (512) 714-2275
Photo of Grace Gould - Moonstone Counseling PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Moonstone Counseling PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
We can provide EMDR Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) as well.
These are unprecedented times. You may find your usual ways of coping with stress and uncertainty are no longer helping you. Moonstone Counseling is here to support you, whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or any other emotional issue. COVID-19 has challenged us to seek support in new and unconventional ways. We offer in-person and teletherapy sessions to people who need an outlet and guide during this global pandemic. We are here to help you through this tough time.
We can provide EMDR Therapy and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) as well.
These are unprecedented times. You may find your usual ways of coping with stress and uncertainty are no longer helping you. Moonstone Counseling is here to support you, whether you are dealing with depression, anxiety, or any other emotional issue. COVID-19 has challenged us to seek support in new and unconventional ways. We offer in-person and teletherapy sessions to people who need an outlet and guide during this global pandemic. We are here to help you through this tough time.
(512) 580-8377 View (512) 580-8377
Photo of David Jenkins, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Jenkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
This might include various mindfulness practices, emotion and body awareness, EMDR, cognitive-behavioral work, or various other approaches.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or anxious in your life or relationship? My understanding is that life involves all of who we are - the interplay between mind, emotions, body, and spirit. If something feels out of balance or lacking in your life, causing you anxiety, depression, anger, self-doubt, confusion, or a feeling of things being out of control, then my approach to counseling can help. I have found that increasing one's self awareness and self acceptance are the building blocks of any change process, and I will work with you to honor your process while identifying your preferred direction for positive change.
This might include various mindfulness practices, emotion and body awareness, EMDR, cognitive-behavioral work, or various other approaches.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stuck, or anxious in your life or relationship? My understanding is that life involves all of who we are - the interplay between mind, emotions, body, and spirit. If something feels out of balance or lacking in your life, causing you anxiety, depression, anger, self-doubt, confusion, or a feeling of things being out of control, then my approach to counseling can help. I have found that increasing one's self awareness and self acceptance are the building blocks of any change process, and I will work with you to honor your process while identifying your preferred direction for positive change.
(512) 430-5234 View (512) 430-5234
Photo of Ana Maria Cabezas, LPC-S, SEP, RPT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ana Maria Cabezas
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, SEP, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
In addition, I have specialized training in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Play Therapy and Sandtray Therapy.
At Austin Bilingual Therapy, you will find a safe and trusting place to explore your concerns. Through nurturing, curiosity and playfulness, you will become aware of what keeps you from believing, feeling or doing what you want to reach in life. I see myself as a companion to you or to your family and children in this journey that is life. I feel honored that you are choosing me to be a witness to your growth as an individual, parent, child, sibling, and partner.
In addition, I have specialized training in Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, Play Therapy and Sandtray Therapy.
At Austin Bilingual Therapy, you will find a safe and trusting place to explore your concerns. Through nurturing, curiosity and playfulness, you will become aware of what keeps you from believing, feeling or doing what you want to reach in life. I see myself as a companion to you or to your family and children in this journey that is life. I feel honored that you are choosing me to be a witness to your growth as an individual, parent, child, sibling, and partner.
(512) 357-7414 View (512) 357-7414
Photo of Marie-Michele Atkinson, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marie-Michele Atkinson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746  (Online Only)
You might have tried talk therapy or EMDR and found those to be helpful yet are still struggling with the same symptoms you had come to therapy for. I can help you with that. Through integrating all of your "parts," you can come to experience more ease and a sense of internal coherence that in turn supports you in making some of the changes that you're longing for in your life. I use "parts work" and other trauma focused modalities to address issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, people pleasing, shame, dissociation, difficulties with communication and creative blocks.
You might have tried talk therapy or EMDR and found those to be helpful yet are still struggling with the same symptoms you had come to therapy for. I can help you with that. Through integrating all of your "parts," you can come to experience more ease and a sense of internal coherence that in turn supports you in making some of the changes that you're longing for in your life. I use "parts work" and other trauma focused modalities to address issues such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, people pleasing, shame, dissociation, difficulties with communication and creative blocks.
(424) 348-6612 View (424) 348-6612
Photo of Bruno Gabriel Lepore, MA, LPCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Bruno Gabriel Lepore
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPCS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
My name is Bruno Lepore, MA, LPCS. I am a psychotherapist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Mediator, and a Certified Critical Incident Debriefing facilitator. I am trained to use a variety of compassionate and empirically validated interventions, including EMDR, Internal Family System, hypnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and acceptance commitment therapy. These modalities are proven to help patients cope with a variety of problems and crises. My approach to treatment is collaborative, solution-oriented, and interactive.
My name is Bruno Lepore, MA, LPCS. I am a psychotherapist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology, a Licensed Professional Counselor, a Certified Mediator, and a Certified Critical Incident Debriefing facilitator. I am trained to use a variety of compassionate and empirically validated interventions, including EMDR, Internal Family System, hypnosis, cognitive behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and acceptance commitment therapy. These modalities are proven to help patients cope with a variety of problems and crises. My approach to treatment is collaborative, solution-oriented, and interactive.
(512) 400-2038 View (512) 400-2038
Photo of Arielle Sokoll-Ward, LCSW-S, CCTP-II, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Arielle Sokoll-Ward
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
I'm a Level Two Certified Complex Trauma Professional and trained in both EMDR and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and find both extremely helpful for a variety of issues and needs.
Congratulations on taking the first step to a more authentic, self-compassionate, and healed YOU. I work with my clients in a warm, comfortable, inviting, and non-judgmental environment. I like to provide a space where clients feel comfortable processing difficult emotions so they can leave the session feeling a greater sense of resilience, confidence, and happiness. I primarily specialize in grief/loss/bereavement and trauma/PTSD. I also have extensive experience and training in eating disorders, LGBTQ+, domestic violence and sexual violence, depression, anxiety, relationship and interpersonal struggles, and life transitions.
I'm a Level Two Certified Complex Trauma Professional and trained in both EMDR and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy and find both extremely helpful for a variety of issues and needs.
Congratulations on taking the first step to a more authentic, self-compassionate, and healed YOU. I work with my clients in a warm, comfortable, inviting, and non-judgmental environment. I like to provide a space where clients feel comfortable processing difficult emotions so they can leave the session feeling a greater sense of resilience, confidence, and happiness. I primarily specialize in grief/loss/bereavement and trauma/PTSD. I also have extensive experience and training in eating disorders, LGBTQ+, domestic violence and sexual violence, depression, anxiety, relationship and interpersonal struggles, and life transitions.
(512) 515-9577 View (512) 515-9577
Photo of Carly Bassett, LCSW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carly Bassett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-S
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in grief, loss and trauma and can provide EMDR therapy and Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
Sometimes life transitions, even celebrated ones such as the birth of a child or retirement, can create feelings of loss, new roles and questioning. I help people through all life transitions, grief & loss, and trauma. I also enjoy working with couples navigating challenges of parenting, work/life stressors, communication, and understanding partner's anxiety or depression. Clients who work with me tend to need support to break out of negative patterns, understand themselves and partners' needs better, and have a desire to achieve a higher quality of life & relationships.
I specialize in grief, loss and trauma and can provide EMDR therapy and Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
Sometimes life transitions, even celebrated ones such as the birth of a child or retirement, can create feelings of loss, new roles and questioning. I help people through all life transitions, grief & loss, and trauma. I also enjoy working with couples navigating challenges of parenting, work/life stressors, communication, and understanding partner's anxiety or depression. Clients who work with me tend to need support to break out of negative patterns, understand themselves and partners' needs better, and have a desire to achieve a higher quality of life & relationships.
(512) 270-6170 View (512) 270-6170
Photo of Ron J. Artis, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ron J. Artis
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S
Verified Verified
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
In addition to working with a diverse adult population, I have been trained in EMDR, life transitions, career development, spiritual growth, Jungian Dreamwork, Hypnosis, mens issues, step parenting and blended families.
Change in our lives is inevitable. The transition periods between times of stability in our lives are more common then we often care to admit. These transitions can trigger stress, anxiety, depression and other current and long standing psychological issues. I started my clinical practice in 1989 in Austin, Texas and specialize in helping adult individuals and couples who are experiencing transitions due to significant changes occurring in their lives.
In addition to working with a diverse adult population, I have been trained in EMDR, life transitions, career development, spiritual growth, Jungian Dreamwork, Hypnosis, mens issues, step parenting and blended families.
Change in our lives is inevitable. The transition periods between times of stability in our lives are more common then we often care to admit. These transitions can trigger stress, anxiety, depression and other current and long standing psychological issues. I started my clinical practice in 1989 in Austin, Texas and specialize in helping adult individuals and couples who are experiencing transitions due to significant changes occurring in their lives.
(512) 262-9603 View (512) 262-9603
Photo of Jan Phillips, LPC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jan Phillips
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
I utilize EMDR to help clients as well.
You're struggling with parts of your life right now and aren't sure what to do. Perhaps it's your relationships that are struggling; you may be in the middle of a life change or transition; you may be grieving. There may be other factors in your life which are creating problems. Perhaps you're struggling with addictive behavior; your past is affecting your present; a trauma may be clouding your life. You feel like you don't matter, that you aren't worthy of love. Nobody is listening and you can't figure out how to be heard.
I utilize EMDR to help clients as well.
You're struggling with parts of your life right now and aren't sure what to do. Perhaps it's your relationships that are struggling; you may be in the middle of a life change or transition; you may be grieving. There may be other factors in your life which are creating problems. Perhaps you're struggling with addictive behavior; your past is affecting your present; a trauma may be clouding your life. You feel like you don't matter, that you aren't worthy of love. Nobody is listening and you can't figure out how to be heard.
(512) 337-4897 View (512) 337-4897
Photo of Leslie Larson, MA, LPC-S, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Leslie Larson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
I am certified in EMDR and have had the opportunity to see survivors find relief in a few sessions rather than a few months.
I believe therapy is a process helps people to fully participate in their lives. I use several therapeutic styles and a collaborative approach. Together, we identify "the problem," then explore obstacles that block the process. The goal is wholeness and healing and you, as the client, decide what that looks like. Building a safe, respectful and trusting relationship is essential for success ---- as the client defines "success." I also believe that even in the most dire of circumstances, we can find joy, hope and even laughter. I enjoy playing a part in that with my clients.
I am certified in EMDR and have had the opportunity to see survivors find relief in a few sessions rather than a few months.
I believe therapy is a process helps people to fully participate in their lives. I use several therapeutic styles and a collaborative approach. Together, we identify "the problem," then explore obstacles that block the process. The goal is wholeness and healing and you, as the client, decide what that looks like. Building a safe, respectful and trusting relationship is essential for success ---- as the client defines "success." I also believe that even in the most dire of circumstances, we can find joy, hope and even laughter. I enjoy playing a part in that with my clients.
(512) 540-5595 View (512) 540-5595
Photo of Marissa Engel, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marissa Engel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
Using the Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Parts work, and EMDR approaches I help client's find ways to ease the sharp edges of relationships and life.
Like most of my clients I have my own share of childhood trauma. I’ve had to deconstruct childhood messages of not being good enough. I’ve had to learn to set boundaries and learn that I’m not required to put others' needs above my own. I think learning that I'm loved and worthy, even when other's are angry with me has been the most difficult lesson of all. The very path that many of you are starting out on, I have walked myself. This journey isn't about reliving your worst memories, it's about taking away their power. I’ve worked hard to reclaim my own story, now I want to help you reclaim yours.
Using the Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Parts work, and EMDR approaches I help client's find ways to ease the sharp edges of relationships and life.
Like most of my clients I have my own share of childhood trauma. I’ve had to deconstruct childhood messages of not being good enough. I’ve had to learn to set boundaries and learn that I’m not required to put others' needs above my own. I think learning that I'm loved and worthy, even when other's are angry with me has been the most difficult lesson of all. The very path that many of you are starting out on, I have walked myself. This journey isn't about reliving your worst memories, it's about taking away their power. I’ve worked hard to reclaim my own story, now I want to help you reclaim yours.
(512) 943-6350 View (512) 943-6350
Photo of Nicole Moore, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicole Moore
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
West Lake Hills, TX 78746  (Online Only)
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, and neurodiverse couples. Using attachment theory, mindfulness, traditional and alternative modalities (including EMDR) to personalize every treatment plan, I strive to make a genuine connection with each individual to help inform my approach.
I specialize in the treatment of trauma, depression, anxiety, neurodiversity, and neurodiverse couples. Using attachment theory, mindfulness, traditional and alternative modalities (including EMDR) to personalize every treatment plan, I strive to make a genuine connection with each individual to help inform my approach.
(512) 764-0717 View (512) 764-0717
Photo of Caileigh Chadwick, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Caileigh Chadwick
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
West Lake Hills, TX 78746
I incorporate a variety of lens including EMDR, IFS, AEDP, attachment theory, somatic practices, ACT, Imago, and DBT for a personalized fit for you.
Do you feel trapped in patterns that no longer serve you? Do you feel disconnected from yourself, others, or in your relationship? Are there old wounds showing up in the present? Are you struggling with relationships and not quite sure why? When we encounter trauma or adverse experiences, we often find ourselves stuck in unhealthy cycles as a way of shielding ourselves from reliving that pain. Together, we will approach the difficulties you're facing with compassion, fostering lasting transformation. My therapeutic style is characterized by warmth, creating a space where we can explore how you can cultivate a more fulfilling life.
I incorporate a variety of lens including EMDR, IFS, AEDP, attachment theory, somatic practices, ACT, Imago, and DBT for a personalized fit for you.
Do you feel trapped in patterns that no longer serve you? Do you feel disconnected from yourself, others, or in your relationship? Are there old wounds showing up in the present? Are you struggling with relationships and not quite sure why? When we encounter trauma or adverse experiences, we often find ourselves stuck in unhealthy cycles as a way of shielding ourselves from reliving that pain. Together, we will approach the difficulties you're facing with compassion, fostering lasting transformation. My therapeutic style is characterized by warmth, creating a space where we can explore how you can cultivate a more fulfilling life.
(512) 772-5651 View (512) 772-5651

See more therapy options for West Lake Hills

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.