EMDR Therapists in Danville, VA

Photo of Darryl Gerard Mccarroll - Family Health SolutionsLLC, LCSW, (DSW), CHT, LCAS-A, MM, Counselor
Family Health SolutionsLLC
Counselor, LCSW, (DSW), CHT, LCAS-A, MM
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24541
The awesome Metaphysical Store "The Cabin" where we share space is allowing us to share their their unique space for our unique therapies, such as EMDR, Hypnosis, EFT, DBT, or CBT trauma related therapies.
Covid 19 has made it clear that many people are experiencing issues with depression,loneliness, and anxiety. Family Health Solutions LLC (FHS) offers an easy strategy to tackle the tough emotions and feelings. FHS offer's therapies that may not require pharmaceuticals are easy to access and are designed not take forever to learn to manage
The awesome Metaphysical Store "The Cabin" where we share space is allowing us to share their their unique space for our unique therapies, such as EMDR, Hypnosis, EFT, DBT, or CBT trauma related therapies.
Covid 19 has made it clear that many people are experiencing issues with depression,loneliness, and anxiety. Family Health Solutions LLC (FHS) offers an easy strategy to tackle the tough emotions and feelings. FHS offer's therapies that may not require pharmaceuticals are easy to access and are designed not take forever to learn to manage
(434) 732-2695 View (434) 732-2695
Photo of Jon Winder, LPC, LSATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jon Winder
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LSATP
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24541
I am a certified EMDR therapist.
The two most important factors in effective psychotherapy are finding the right person with whom you can connect and knowing that the therapy is geared to your unique needs. My 45 years of counseling have taught me therapy is most effective when we work together. Therapy is a cooperative effort. I want to identify your strengths and apply them to your problems. If you have a history of trauma, I have found that EMDR therapy is the most effective way to treat trauma and am excited to offer this therapy.
I am a certified EMDR therapist.
The two most important factors in effective psychotherapy are finding the right person with whom you can connect and knowing that the therapy is geared to your unique needs. My 45 years of counseling have taught me therapy is most effective when we work together. Therapy is a cooperative effort. I want to identify your strengths and apply them to your problems. If you have a history of trauma, I have found that EMDR therapy is the most effective way to treat trauma and am excited to offer this therapy.
(434) 201-4388 View (434) 201-4388
Photo of Samara Bowser - 1 Journey Counseling Services, PLLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
1 Journey Counseling Services, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24540  (Online Only)
Welcome. I am an experienced therapist working in partnership with clients who are motivated to bring greater peace and healthy balance to their lives. Many of my clients are dealing with transitions or difficult life events. I certified and trained in Trauma-Based Therapy to address present trauma and/or childhood trauma. I believe once self-awareness increases it develops conscious awareness to behaviors. My approach is gentle, supportive, inclusive, highly informed and effective. I am accepting clients for online services only at this time. Most people find this works well for them.
Welcome. I am an experienced therapist working in partnership with clients who are motivated to bring greater peace and healthy balance to their lives. Many of my clients are dealing with transitions or difficult life events. I certified and trained in Trauma-Based Therapy to address present trauma and/or childhood trauma. I believe once self-awareness increases it develops conscious awareness to behaviors. My approach is gentle, supportive, inclusive, highly informed and effective. I am accepting clients for online services only at this time. Most people find this works well for them.
(434) 204-4268 View (434) 204-4268
Photo of Bethany Gravely - Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lifebulb Counseling & Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24540
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
Working with us you'll get results. Because we believe you're best served by a clinician who's passionate about not only their work, but who they work with as well. That's why we started Lifebulb - We're committed to building an organization that truly allows therapists to get back to enjoying their work, so you, our client, can receive the highest quality therapy services, whether in person at one of our locations or online through telehealth. We hire only highly trained and educated, licensed clinicians dedicated to the therapy process. We're confident we can help you achieve your therapy goals.
(434) 602-9758 View (434) 602-9758
Photo of Charlotte Miller - Charlotte B. Miller Counseling Services , MA, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Charlotte B. Miller Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24541
Emotional distress often surfaces in many different life situations including grief, loss of a job, infidelity, relationship issues, parenting concerns, constant worry, anxiety and depression and is often triggered by everyday life situations. I empathize with your need to get past your distressing thoughts and memories, and I will diligently and caringly work side-by- side with you to feel calm and safe again.
Emotional distress often surfaces in many different life situations including grief, loss of a job, infidelity, relationship issues, parenting concerns, constant worry, anxiety and depression and is often triggered by everyday life situations. I empathize with your need to get past your distressing thoughts and memories, and I will diligently and caringly work side-by- side with you to feel calm and safe again.
(434) 329-7081 View (434) 329-7081
Photo of Samara Bowser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Samara Bowser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Danville, VA 24540
My interactions with clients are grounded in compassion, respect, empathy, and an understanding of cultural impacts. I consider the role of a therapist as helping to educate and empower clients so that they develop the insight and skills necessary to overcome their own personal and situational challenges. Many of my clients are dealing with transitions or difficult life events. My approach is gentle, supportive, inclusive, highly informed and effective.
My interactions with clients are grounded in compassion, respect, empathy, and an understanding of cultural impacts. I consider the role of a therapist as helping to educate and empower clients so that they develop the insight and skills necessary to overcome their own personal and situational challenges. Many of my clients are dealing with transitions or difficult life events. My approach is gentle, supportive, inclusive, highly informed and effective.
(252) 888-7209 View (252) 888-7209

Online Therapists

Photo of Renata Huewitt - Ivy Bridge Counseling, LPC, LMHC, RPT, Counselor
Ivy Bridge Counseling
Counselor, LPC, LMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24017
We provide trauma-informed care and utilize approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Solution Focused, Play Therapy, Filial Play Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couple and Family Therapy, Family Centered Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Mindfulness to help build resiliency and increase protective factors to improve functioning,.
We believe that clients are the experts of their lives and strive to help use creative therapeutic avenues to create a space to help them meet their goals. Our experienced team has experience helping children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families address emotional and behavioral needs including anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, mood disorders, social and school issues, military related issues, PTSD, Reactive Attachment Disorder, and family conflict.
We provide trauma-informed care and utilize approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR Therapy, Solution Focused, Play Therapy, Filial Play Therapy, Emotionally Focused Couple and Family Therapy, Family Centered Therapy, Expressive Arts Therapy, and Mindfulness to help build resiliency and increase protective factors to improve functioning,.
We believe that clients are the experts of their lives and strive to help use creative therapeutic avenues to create a space to help them meet their goals. Our experienced team has experience helping children, adolescents, adults, couples, and families address emotional and behavioral needs including anxiety, depression, ADHD, anger management, mood disorders, social and school issues, military related issues, PTSD, Reactive Attachment Disorder, and family conflict.
(407) 565-7942 View (407) 565-7942
Photo of Olivia Oakley, MSW
Olivia Oakley
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cave Spring, VA 24018
I am currently completing training in EMDR.
I am a dedicated counselor with a strong commitment to providing personalized and effective therapeutic services to individuals aged 14+. I believe in the strength and resilience of every individual, and my goal is to provide strengths-based and person-centered care to empower my clients on their path to healing and self-discovery. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am deeply committed to creating a safe space for individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, offering unwavering support as they navigate the complexities of identity and mental health.
I am currently completing training in EMDR.
I am a dedicated counselor with a strong commitment to providing personalized and effective therapeutic services to individuals aged 14+. I believe in the strength and resilience of every individual, and my goal is to provide strengths-based and person-centered care to empower my clients on their path to healing and self-discovery. I have experience working with children, adolescents, and adults struggling with depression, anxiety, and trauma. I am deeply committed to creating a safe space for individuals within the LGBTQ+ community, offering unwavering support as they navigate the complexities of identity and mental health.
(540) 306-4707 View (540) 306-4707
Photo of Katie Noel Sherwood, MSW
Katie Noel Sherwood
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018
I use a combination of different therapy modalities such as Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), as well as EMDR.
Life can be overwhelming at times and sometimes you are in need of extra support, guidance and a safe space along the way. My hope is to walk alongside you in your journey and help you reach the goals you want for yourself and your life and provide a safe space for healing and growth. I have spent years developing my skills and knowledge by working with adults, adolescents and children who have experienced trauma and family issues. I have experience in working with individuals who have struggled with couple issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual exploitation, grief and loss. I am currently seeing clients aged 14+.
I use a combination of different therapy modalities such as Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Person-Centered Therapy (PCT), Dialectal Behavioral Therapy (DBT) and Motivational Interviewing (MI), as well as EMDR.
Life can be overwhelming at times and sometimes you are in need of extra support, guidance and a safe space along the way. My hope is to walk alongside you in your journey and help you reach the goals you want for yourself and your life and provide a safe space for healing and growth. I have spent years developing my skills and knowledge by working with adults, adolescents and children who have experienced trauma and family issues. I have experience in working with individuals who have struggled with couple issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, sexual exploitation, grief and loss. I am currently seeing clients aged 14+.
(540) 596-5670 View (540) 596-5670
Photo of Christy Hensley - Heart Of The Matter, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heart Of The Matter, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Floyd, VA 24091
I use many modalities including EMDR, Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, Interpersonal, and Person-Centered to provide holistic treatment.
I am passionate about helping people to free themselves from the effects of trauma & difficult childhoods. I also focus on helping individuals with chronic illness, ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, and with major life transitions and career and relationship challenges.
I use many modalities including EMDR, Psychodynamic, CBT, DBT, Interpersonal, and Person-Centered to provide holistic treatment.
I am passionate about helping people to free themselves from the effects of trauma & difficult childhoods. I also focus on helping individuals with chronic illness, ADHD, Anxiety, OCD, and with major life transitions and career and relationship challenges.
(540) 908-4816 View (540) 908-4816
Photo of Courtney Cooper, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Courtney Cooper
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Altavista, VA 24517  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
How Does EMDR Work? Instead of extensive verbal discussion, EMDR focuses on altering emotions, thoughts, & behaviors linked to distressing experiences.
If you've found yourself in the midst of trauma or past traumatic memories, I empathize with you and know how hard that can be. I encourage you to try something you may not have tried before: EMDR treatment. Clients on my caseload are frequently referred to me because of their need for a different type of therapy... something in addition to talk therapy with great scientific success rates. That's where EMDR comes in. It’s most renowned for addressing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, however, its applications extend to many other mental concerns as well.
How Does EMDR Work? Instead of extensive verbal discussion, EMDR focuses on altering emotions, thoughts, & behaviors linked to distressing experiences.
If you've found yourself in the midst of trauma or past traumatic memories, I empathize with you and know how hard that can be. I encourage you to try something you may not have tried before: EMDR treatment. Clients on my caseload are frequently referred to me because of their need for a different type of therapy... something in addition to talk therapy with great scientific success rates. That's where EMDR comes in. It’s most renowned for addressing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder, however, its applications extend to many other mental concerns as well.
(434) 432-6328 View (434) 432-6328
Photo of Karen Forbes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Forbes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
I know that no single approach is right for everyone, and for that reason I have been trained in several modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Reality Therapy, and Behavior Modification.
When you experience trauma or stressful life situation, it is not uncommon for your life to feel out of control. I have a passion to help others who have experienced a traumatic event or a stressful life situation. It is my goal to help others to find healthy perceptions of themselves, and to strengthen interpersonal relationships. If you're looking for extra support and guidance to help you know yourself better or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
I know that no single approach is right for everyone, and for that reason I have been trained in several modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Reality Therapy, and Behavior Modification.
When you experience trauma or stressful life situation, it is not uncommon for your life to feel out of control. I have a passion to help others who have experienced a traumatic event or a stressful life situation. It is my goal to help others to find healthy perceptions of themselves, and to strengthen interpersonal relationships. If you're looking for extra support and guidance to help you know yourself better or you're just ready to move in a new direction in your life, I look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(540) 277-9982 View (540) 277-9982
Photo of Evan Marc Collins, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Evan Marc Collins
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24011
Areas of therapeutic focus: anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, EMDR, spiritual trauma, spiritual abuse, LGBTQ+ affirming care.
Evan is a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate working towards full licensure in the state of Virginia. Evan holds a Bachelor of Arts in sociology with a minor in political science from Arizona State University and a Master of Education in clinical mental health counseling from Auburn University. Evan has worked in both community mental health as a school-based therapist in Asheville, NC and as a concierge therapist working virtually at the Veal Group, LLC. Evan practices from a relationship-focused perspective, influenced by psychodynamic, trauma-informed narrative, and relational cultural theories.
Areas of therapeutic focus: anxiety, depression, stress, trauma, EMDR, spiritual trauma, spiritual abuse, LGBTQ+ affirming care.
Evan is a licensed clinical mental health counselor associate working towards full licensure in the state of Virginia. Evan holds a Bachelor of Arts in sociology with a minor in political science from Arizona State University and a Master of Education in clinical mental health counseling from Auburn University. Evan has worked in both community mental health as a school-based therapist in Asheville, NC and as a concierge therapist working virtually at the Veal Group, LLC. Evan practices from a relationship-focused perspective, influenced by psychodynamic, trauma-informed narrative, and relational cultural theories.
(540) 824-4511 View (540) 824-4511
Photo of Jessica Overturf, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Overturf
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Christiansburg, VA 24073  (Online Only)
My training includes mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, CBT for anxiety, EMDR, and trauma-informed techniques.
I enjoy working with clients aged 16 and above. My approach is inclusive and client-centered, ensuring that each individual receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs. If you are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, or trauma, I would be honored to provide guidance and support on your journey of personal growth and well-being.
My training includes mindfulness-based cognitive behavioral therapy, CBT for anxiety, EMDR, and trauma-informed techniques.
I enjoy working with clients aged 16 and above. My approach is inclusive and client-centered, ensuring that each individual receives personalized support tailored to their unique needs. If you are struggling with anxiety, self-esteem issues, relationship challenges, or trauma, I would be honored to provide guidance and support on your journey of personal growth and well-being.
(757) 982-2931 View (757) 982-2931
Photo of Kathleen Van Allen, MS, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kathleen Van Allen
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Forest, VA 24551
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in therapy for college students, young adults and women struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, motherhood/parenting, relationship issues, and interpersonal life skills. I also specialize in couples/marital counseling, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, and trauma training with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR). I develop strong relationships with my clients and, together, we work towards finding their roadmaps in life, improving self-worth, identifying goals/objectives, reducing hard feelings and behaviors, and overall feeling better at managing daily life
I specialize in therapy for college students, young adults and women struggling with anxiety, depression, life transitions, stress management, motherhood/parenting, relationship issues, and interpersonal life skills. I also specialize in couples/marital counseling, Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders, and trauma training with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR). I develop strong relationships with my clients and, together, we work towards finding their roadmaps in life, improving self-worth, identifying goals/objectives, reducing hard feelings and behaviors, and overall feeling better at managing daily life
(434) 299-2809 View (434) 299-2809
Photo of Lisa McIntosh - Second Chance LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Second Chance LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Martinsville, VA 24112
In addition, I am trained to provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor Supervisee with over 20 years of experience helping adults and children to improve their wellbeing and enhance their quality of life. I offer individual, family or group therapy for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorder. I also offer individual or group therapy for children ages 5-17 years old experiencing anxiety, depression, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, mood disorder and trauma.
In addition, I am trained to provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Certified Substance Abuse Counselor Supervisee with over 20 years of experience helping adults and children to improve their wellbeing and enhance their quality of life. I offer individual, family or group therapy for adults experiencing depression, anxiety, grief, post-traumatic stress disorder and substance use disorder. I also offer individual or group therapy for children ages 5-17 years old experiencing anxiety, depression, conduct disorder, oppositional defiant disorder, attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder, mood disorder and trauma.
(276) 633-6658 View (276) 633-6658
Photo of Byron S. Branham, MA, NCC, CCTP, NPT-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Byron S. Branham
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, CCTP, NPT-C
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Member: Veterans Administration Community Care Network. I strive to create a safe and supportive experience in our work together as you move toward wholeness, stability, and peace. I use a number of proven strategies that are tailored to your needs to help you achieve your goals. Some of the techniques I use are EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotional Freedom Technique, to name a few.
Member: Veterans Administration Community Care Network. I strive to create a safe and supportive experience in our work together as you move toward wholeness, stability, and peace. I use a number of proven strategies that are tailored to your needs to help you achieve your goals. Some of the techniques I use are EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Emotional Freedom Technique, to name a few.
(540) 947-1814 View (540) 947-1814
Photo of Nina Dillon Cassada, PhD, LPC, VA, GA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nina Dillon Cassada
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, VA, GA
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24503  (Online Only)
Additionally, she has advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) coupled with Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to assist individuals healing from traumatic experiences.
Nina Cassada, PH.D., LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing outpatient therapy in Virginia and Georgia. She serves as an adjunct faculty to Southern New Hampshire University in the human services department. Dr. Cassada uses several evidence based techniques to address client needs. Dr. Cassada has a focused practice addressing: mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma related disorders, and emotional distress.
Additionally, she has advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) coupled with Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) to assist individuals healing from traumatic experiences.
Nina Cassada, PH.D., LPC is a Licensed Professional Counselor providing outpatient therapy in Virginia and Georgia. She serves as an adjunct faculty to Southern New Hampshire University in the human services department. Dr. Cassada uses several evidence based techniques to address client needs. Dr. Cassada has a focused practice addressing: mood disorders, anxiety, substance use disorders, trauma related disorders, and emotional distress.
(434) 201-7408 View (434) 201-7408
Photo of Pepper Martin, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Pepper Martin
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Martinsville, VA 24112
I am experienced in providing cognitive behavioral therapy for trauma, as well as exposure therapy, eye movement desensitization reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing and solution-focused brief therapy.
I firmly believe we all have the capacity to improve our quality of life, and I approach therapy as a way to achieve this. When working with me, my goal as a therapist is to provide genuine connection, empathy, and tools to navigate through life with success. You will be heard, valued, and supported, without judgement or dismissal.
I am experienced in providing cognitive behavioral therapy for trauma, as well as exposure therapy, eye movement desensitization reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy, acceptance and commitment therapy, motivational interviewing and solution-focused brief therapy.
I firmly believe we all have the capacity to improve our quality of life, and I approach therapy as a way to achieve this. When working with me, my goal as a therapist is to provide genuine connection, empathy, and tools to navigate through life with success. You will be heard, valued, and supported, without judgement or dismissal.
(276) 637-8016 View (276) 637-8016
Photo of Jennifer Keith, PhD, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer Keith
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lexington, VA 24450
Waitlist for new clients
I practice from a somatic, trauma informed perspective with EMDR, parts work, and Somatic Experiencing.
Currently only accepting clients for extended session/intensive trauma work. As a therapist, I believe everyone is capable of fulfilling their true authentic self and realizing their maximum potential. The therapeutic relationship can serve as a catalyst for this change and my role as a therapist is to partner with you on this journey and to offer support and guidance. My experience is in working with adults with complex trauma. I believe the core condition of being human is forming relationships and we experience dysfunction and unhappiness when we experience disconnection.
I practice from a somatic, trauma informed perspective with EMDR, parts work, and Somatic Experiencing.
Currently only accepting clients for extended session/intensive trauma work. As a therapist, I believe everyone is capable of fulfilling their true authentic self and realizing their maximum potential. The therapeutic relationship can serve as a catalyst for this change and my role as a therapist is to partner with you on this journey and to offer support and guidance. My experience is in working with adults with complex trauma. I believe the core condition of being human is forming relationships and we experience dysfunction and unhappiness when we experience disconnection.
(540) 274-2969 View (540) 274-2969
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.