EMDR Therapists in Floyd, VA

Photo of Rosana Lopez Haugh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosana Lopez Haugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Floyd, VA 24091
I work in the expressive arts and EMDR and am working towards certification in both.
I received my Masters in Social Work, Planning, and Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University have over 20 years of experience in the field of social work, advocating and serving people with disabilities in their community. I have extensive experience working with children and adults assisting them in both English and Spanish.
I work in the expressive arts and EMDR and am working towards certification in both.
I received my Masters in Social Work, Planning, and Administration from Virginia Commonwealth University have over 20 years of experience in the field of social work, advocating and serving people with disabilities in their community. I have extensive experience working with children and adults assisting them in both English and Spanish.
(804) 538-4681 View (804) 538-4681
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 Rhoda E Hurst, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhoda E Hurst
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Floyd, VA 24091
My ideal client will allow me to help him or her to grow and to heal. This requires the client believe in the possibility of trust, hope, and change. The ideal client is honest and willing to take some risk. Just coming to a counselor is a big risk!
My ideal client will allow me to help him or her to grow and to heal. This requires the client believe in the possibility of trust, hope, and change. The ideal client is honest and willing to take some risk. Just coming to a counselor is a big risk!
(540) 822-0914 View (540) 822-0914
Photo of Terra Alagna, LCSW, EMDR-C, CAGCS, DBT-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Terra Alagna
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-C, CAGCS, DBT-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Floyd, VA 24091
My goal is to help others find their life worth living through specific and measurable steps that can ease the stress of change and create long-lasting improvement in daily functioning.
My goal is to help others find their life worth living through specific and measurable steps that can ease the stress of change and create long-lasting improvement in daily functioning.
(540) 730-2793 View (540) 730-2793

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Thomas Bufano, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thomas Bufano
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Willis, VA 24380
Waitlist for new clients
In addition, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and have personally found this therapy to be life-changing to reprocess traumatic events.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious, irritable, or disillusioned? Life can be challenging, confusing, and painful, but it can also be full of meaning, satisfaction, and joy. My belief is that our deepest emotional wounds can also lead to our greatest inner growth: “Life doesn’t happen to us, it happens for us.” Whether you need support with a strained relationship, trauma, physical pain, self-esteem, divorce, illness, personal loss, or are suffering but unsure of how to cope, I will be honored to accompany you on your personal journey and will strive to develop a relaxed atmosphere of mutual trust.
In addition, I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and have personally found this therapy to be life-changing to reprocess traumatic events.
Are you feeling stressed, anxious, irritable, or disillusioned? Life can be challenging, confusing, and painful, but it can also be full of meaning, satisfaction, and joy. My belief is that our deepest emotional wounds can also lead to our greatest inner growth: “Life doesn’t happen to us, it happens for us.” Whether you need support with a strained relationship, trauma, physical pain, self-esteem, divorce, illness, personal loss, or are suffering but unsure of how to cope, I will be honored to accompany you on your personal journey and will strive to develop a relaxed atmosphere of mutual trust.
(540) 701-4404 View (540) 701-4404
Photo of Zari N Encarnacion-White, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Zari N Encarnacion-White
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Willis, VA 24380  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and Play Therapy.
I have been in the field of mental health for 12 years. I became a certified substance abuse counselor to help those dealing with substance abuse. I moved to work with children dealing with trauma from physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse in a residential facility. I worked with children and now adults that are Autistic that need someone to take the time and care to meet them where they are to help them reach their goals. I have worked with veterans and others with PTSD and utilize EMDR to assist with navigating their trauma. Throughout my career I have been able to work with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
I am trained in EMDR and Play Therapy.
I have been in the field of mental health for 12 years. I became a certified substance abuse counselor to help those dealing with substance abuse. I moved to work with children dealing with trauma from physical, emotional, and/or sexual abuse in a residential facility. I worked with children and now adults that are Autistic that need someone to take the time and care to meet them where they are to help them reach their goals. I have worked with veterans and others with PTSD and utilize EMDR to assist with navigating their trauma. Throughout my career I have been able to work with people from diverse ethnic backgrounds.
(540) 858-5822 View (540) 858-5822

Online Therapists

Photo of Andrew Savill, LPC, MDiv, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrew Savill
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MDiv
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24504
I take a whole person view of well being and draw from many approaches to assist my clients on a variety of issues including; Trauma informed care, CBT, Attachment theory, Emotionally focused therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, evidenced based mindfulness practices, and EMDR.
Welcome! If you are looking for someone who is deeply committed to listening and caring for you in your unique situation, who has been equipped with knowledge and skill to truly help you in your journey, and has had significant experience working with a wide variety of clients and issues, I may be a good fit for you. I have an undergraduate degree in psychology, an MDIV and a Masters in Counseling, and am a life long learner who engages my clients with warm evidenced based care.
I take a whole person view of well being and draw from many approaches to assist my clients on a variety of issues including; Trauma informed care, CBT, Attachment theory, Emotionally focused therapy, Acceptance and Commitment therapy, evidenced based mindfulness practices, and EMDR.
Welcome! If you are looking for someone who is deeply committed to listening and caring for you in your unique situation, who has been equipped with knowledge and skill to truly help you in your journey, and has had significant experience working with a wide variety of clients and issues, I may be a good fit for you. I have an undergraduate degree in psychology, an MDIV and a Masters in Counseling, and am a life long learner who engages my clients with warm evidenced based care.
(434) 838-3499 View (434) 838-3499
Photo of Sharon Sudol - Three Valley Wellness LLC, MA, LPC, Counselor
Three Valley Wellness LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
My usual tools are EMDR Therapy, Ego State Therapy, Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) and Neurofeedback.
I am a trauma-focused therapist who is ready to do the deeper work to clean out what gets in your way of having an easier life. My philosophy is to find the root cause of the problem and work on that instead of staying on the surface. I am ready to go deep. Are you feeling like something is wrong or holding you back, but you don’t know what it is? Are you aware of your past traumas and are ready to work on them? You might be surprised how much trauma is responsible for how we feel about ourselves and how we live our lives.
My usual tools are EMDR Therapy, Ego State Therapy, Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR) and Neurofeedback.
I am a trauma-focused therapist who is ready to do the deeper work to clean out what gets in your way of having an easier life. My philosophy is to find the root cause of the problem and work on that instead of staying on the surface. I am ready to go deep. Are you feeling like something is wrong or holding you back, but you don’t know what it is? Are you aware of your past traumas and are ready to work on them? You might be surprised how much trauma is responsible for how we feel about ourselves and how we live our lives.
(540) 202-1436 View (540) 202-1436
Photo of Alexandria Arthur - Hope Over My Experiences Llc (H.o.m.e.), LPC, MA, CCTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexandria Arthur - Hope Over My Experiences Llc (H.o.m.e.)
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, CCTP
Verified Verified
Abingdon, VA 24210  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing or EMDR, CBT, Crisis Intervention, crisis, and Victim/Witness advocation.
Hello, my name is Alexandria “Alex” Arthur. I am here to help guide you through your trauma recovery. Congratulations on taking that first step into your emotional wellness! Life is tough but so are you! You do not have to feel stuck, weighed down, unmotivated, or like you have lost your spark! Lets discover some of those new tools of success together. I provide a non-judgmental, reliable, compassionate, and committed environment. With my person-centered therapy techniques, you will be put at the center of all we do for your mental health. I adhere to all ethical principles and treat people with the dignity and respect they deserve.
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing or EMDR, CBT, Crisis Intervention, crisis, and Victim/Witness advocation.
Hello, my name is Alexandria “Alex” Arthur. I am here to help guide you through your trauma recovery. Congratulations on taking that first step into your emotional wellness! Life is tough but so are you! You do not have to feel stuck, weighed down, unmotivated, or like you have lost your spark! Lets discover some of those new tools of success together. I provide a non-judgmental, reliable, compassionate, and committed environment. With my person-centered therapy techniques, you will be put at the center of all we do for your mental health. I adhere to all ethical principles and treat people with the dignity and respect they deserve.
(276) 329-2115 View (276) 329-2115
Photo of Trauma-Informed Therapist Geoffrey Dill, MA, LMHP-R, NCC
Trauma-Informed Therapist Geoffrey Dill
Resident in Counseling, MA, LMHP-R, NCC
Verified Verified
Forest, VA 24551
My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, incorporating mindfulness and acceptance, EMDR, and other somatic interventions.
If you're reading this, I imagine you're feeling pretty stuck: stuck in negative emotions that feel inescapable, stuck in thoughts that are toxic and shaming, stuck in a cycle of behaviors that don't serve you. In moments like this, there is no shame in reaching out for help! Hi, I'm Geoffrey, and I'm a Resident Counselor who specializes in working with clients with eating disorders, trauma, depression and anxiety, and LGBTQIA+ needs.
My therapeutic approach is trauma-informed, incorporating mindfulness and acceptance, EMDR, and other somatic interventions.
If you're reading this, I imagine you're feeling pretty stuck: stuck in negative emotions that feel inescapable, stuck in thoughts that are toxic and shaming, stuck in a cycle of behaviors that don't serve you. In moments like this, there is no shame in reaching out for help! Hi, I'm Geoffrey, and I'm a Resident Counselor who specializes in working with clients with eating disorders, trauma, depression and anxiety, and LGBTQIA+ needs.
(855) 505-2880 View (855) 505-2880
Photo of Kristyna Lathem, MS, LPC, CTP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kristyna Lathem
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wytheville, VA 24382  (Online Only)
I’m trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy ( EMDR), which we can use if needed.
Are you having difficulty in situations with unexplained behavior? Do you want clarity? It can feel out of control when you’re unsure what to do or how to find help. I offer supportive therapy for teens and adults so they can better handle life, work through any crisis they’re dealing with, and learn to thrive. I treat people who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationships. I also have experience working with military families at all stages. We can focus on any goals that are important to you, ranging from overcoming symptoms to dealing with difficult life situations.
I’m trained in eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy ( EMDR), which we can use if needed.
Are you having difficulty in situations with unexplained behavior? Do you want clarity? It can feel out of control when you’re unsure what to do or how to find help. I offer supportive therapy for teens and adults so they can better handle life, work through any crisis they’re dealing with, and learn to thrive. I treat people who are struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationships. I also have experience working with military families at all stages. We can focus on any goals that are important to you, ranging from overcoming symptoms to dealing with difficult life situations.
(276) 222-6776 View (276) 222-6776
Photo of Amber Jean Eversole - Amber Eversole, LPC, PLLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amber Eversole, LPC, PLLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Blacksburg, VA 24060
I use EMDR therapy to help people work through their hardest experiences so they are able to live more rewarding lives.
I am honored to be able to work with individuals and couples and to be a part of their journey towards living a better life. I believe that everyone is doing the best they can and they are also able to do better given new perspectives and skills. I have experience working with young adults, adults, and couples. I believe it is difficult for many to take the first step and reach out for help. I strive to provide a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment in which you feel comfortable to discuss your story and to build an effective therapeutic relationship.
I use EMDR therapy to help people work through their hardest experiences so they are able to live more rewarding lives.
I am honored to be able to work with individuals and couples and to be a part of their journey towards living a better life. I believe that everyone is doing the best they can and they are also able to do better given new perspectives and skills. I have experience working with young adults, adults, and couples. I believe it is difficult for many to take the first step and reach out for help. I strive to provide a welcoming and nonjudgmental environment in which you feel comfortable to discuss your story and to build an effective therapeutic relationship.
(980) 222-0104 View (980) 222-0104
Photo of Jessica Palacios, MEd, LPC, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Palacios
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I emphasize a strengths-based and client-centered approach to therapy while utilizing a variety of theoretical perspectives including cognitive-behavioral, family systems, brief- supportive, solution-focused, trauma-focused, EMDR, among others.
My goal as your therapist is to help you create a life worth living. While we cannot change your past, we can work together to create a better today and a brighter future. Regardless, of where you are in life or what your circumstances may be, I offer unconditional acceptance, so that you can feel safe to share your story without fear of judgment.
I emphasize a strengths-based and client-centered approach to therapy while utilizing a variety of theoretical perspectives including cognitive-behavioral, family systems, brief- supportive, solution-focused, trauma-focused, EMDR, among others.
My goal as your therapist is to help you create a life worth living. While we cannot change your past, we can work together to create a better today and a brighter future. Regardless, of where you are in life or what your circumstances may be, I offer unconditional acceptance, so that you can feel safe to share your story without fear of judgment.
(434) 436-2803 View (434) 436-2803
Photo of Bailey Porter, MA, NCC
Bailey Porter
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
If you would like EMDR please indicate that as well! I look forward to talking with you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in life? I am here to guide you on your journey to emotional well-being and personal growth. The goal is not only to alleviate symptoms; I’m here to help you create lasting, positive changes in your life. I understand that every individual is unique. Counseling sessions are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the support and strategies that work best for you. I provide telehealth counseling throughout Virginia and in-person counseling in Roanoke, Virginia.
If you would like EMDR please indicate that as well! I look forward to talking with you.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or stuck in life? I am here to guide you on your journey to emotional well-being and personal growth. The goal is not only to alleviate symptoms; I’m here to help you create lasting, positive changes in your life. I understand that every individual is unique. Counseling sessions are tailored to your specific needs, ensuring you receive the support and strategies that work best for you. I provide telehealth counseling throughout Virginia and in-person counseling in Roanoke, Virginia.
(540) 453-8278 View (540) 453-8278
Photo of Adrien Monti, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Adrien Monti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
I am trained in EMDR, an evidence-based treatment that helps desensitize people to traumatic memories.
Relationships can be really hard! If you feel stuck having the same argument over and over that never goes anywhere, or if you feel more like roommates than romantic partners, please reach out. I can help you to reduce conflict, improve communication, and build connection. As a certified sex therapist, I have experience working with issues such as sexual incompatibility, desire discrepancy, performance anxiety, pain, sexual shame, and difficulty with orgasm. I help people overcome barriers so they can more freely experience confidence, intimacy, and pleasure. I offer individual and couples therapy.
I am trained in EMDR, an evidence-based treatment that helps desensitize people to traumatic memories.
Relationships can be really hard! If you feel stuck having the same argument over and over that never goes anywhere, or if you feel more like roommates than romantic partners, please reach out. I can help you to reduce conflict, improve communication, and build connection. As a certified sex therapist, I have experience working with issues such as sexual incompatibility, desire discrepancy, performance anxiety, pain, sexual shame, and difficulty with orgasm. I help people overcome barriers so they can more freely experience confidence, intimacy, and pleasure. I offer individual and couples therapy.
(540) 701-6010 View (540) 701-6010
Photo of Stephanie Messerly, MA, LMFT, LPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Stephanie Messerly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPC
Verified Verified
Lynchburg, VA 24502
Stephanie's 10 years in the mental health field has given her the opportunity to serve and counsel individuals, couples, and families working through depression, anxiety, marital stress, trauma, family strain, self harm, and suicidal ideation. She has worked on hospital psychiatric units and outpatient offices. She is trained as a facilitator in the premarital/marital assessment tools and education from SYMBIS, PREPARE/ENRICH, and Level I Gottman Training. She is trained in EMDR and uses it with clients working through trauma. Stephanie is also an AAMFT supervisor candidate who supervises students and residents.
Stephanie's 10 years in the mental health field has given her the opportunity to serve and counsel individuals, couples, and families working through depression, anxiety, marital stress, trauma, family strain, self harm, and suicidal ideation. She has worked on hospital psychiatric units and outpatient offices. She is trained as a facilitator in the premarital/marital assessment tools and education from SYMBIS, PREPARE/ENRICH, and Level I Gottman Training. She is trained in EMDR and uses it with clients working through trauma. Stephanie is also an AAMFT supervisor candidate who supervises students and residents.
(434) 595-3734 View (434) 595-3734
Photo of Mackenzie Coulson, LPC, Counselor
Mackenzie Coulson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
I use a combination of trauma focused approaches, parts work, and EMDR with a holistic model.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
I use a combination of trauma focused approaches, parts work, and EMDR with a holistic model.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
(276) 859-5673 View (276) 859-5673
Photo of Debbie Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hurt, VA 24563
Hi! My name is Debbie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. I specialize primarily in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but have also helped individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have spent the majority of my adult life developing and authenticating my skills to help those in need. I am very passionate about the work I do, and believe that all have the power within them to heal and recover, whatever that might look like.
Hi! My name is Debbie and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been practicing in the field for over 13 years. I specialize primarily in the treatment of trauma, depression, and anxiety, but have also helped individuals diagnosed with Bipolar Disorder, Schizoaffective Disorder, and Schizophrenia. I am trained in CBT, DBT, Cognitive Processing Therapy, and EMDR, and have spent the majority of my adult life developing and authenticating my skills to help those in need. I am very passionate about the work I do, and believe that all have the power within them to heal and recover, whatever that might look like.
(540) 616-2876 View (540) 616-2876
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), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) 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), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT) 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 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

See more therapy options for Floyd

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.