EMDR Therapists in Vinton, VA

Photo of Jennifer A Kessler, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jennifer A Kessler
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vinton, VA 24179  (Online Only)
I offer EMDR and talk therapy, which includes CBT, DBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. It is my privilige to walk alongside my clients and help them achieve their goals, whatever those goals may be. You don't have to walk through your journey alone.
I offer EMDR and talk therapy, which includes CBT, DBT, ACT, Motivational Interviewing, and Narrative Therapy.
Book with me now by clicking on my website! I enjoy working with clients of all ages and backgrounds. It is my privilige to walk alongside my clients and help them achieve their goals, whatever those goals may be. You don't have to walk through your journey alone.
(540) 517-6856 View (540) 517-6856
Photo of Karen Forbes, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen Forbes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vinton, VA 24179
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 Bailey Porter, MA, NCC
Bailey Porter
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vinton, VA 24179
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 Stacie Lumsden Long, NCC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Stacie Lumsden Long
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vinton, VA 24179
Waitlist for new clients
Are you searching for a silver lining? Sometimes life can seem like a constant struggle, when everything feels overwhelming. I want to help you find hope and peace of mind, even in challenging circumstances. My desire is for you to gain insight into your emotions, giving you a better sense of direction towards positive change.
Are you searching for a silver lining? Sometimes life can seem like a constant struggle, when everything feels overwhelming. I want to help you find hope and peace of mind, even in challenging circumstances. My desire is for you to gain insight into your emotions, giving you a better sense of direction towards positive change.
(540) 385-3691 View (540) 385-3691
Photo of Jennie Card, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennie Card
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Vinton, VA 24179  (Online Only)
Jennie Card (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Jennie is passionate about providing a variety of therapeutic services to adolescents, adults and couples. She focuses on empowering clients to learn about themselves and achieve their goals. Jennie is honest and will use tough love or be gentle based on your specific needs. She has been known to cuss and drops a few “F-bombs”. She creates a space to “sit” with feelings and experiences, help you process them, and support you in growing past those situations.
Jennie Card (she/her) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW). Jennie is passionate about providing a variety of therapeutic services to adolescents, adults and couples. She focuses on empowering clients to learn about themselves and achieve their goals. Jennie is honest and will use tough love or be gentle based on your specific needs. She has been known to cuss and drops a few “F-bombs”. She creates a space to “sit” with feelings and experiences, help you process them, and support you in growing past those situations.
(571) 603-7762 View (571) 603-7762
Photo of Karen Forbes - Mindful Healing Inc
Mindful Healing Inc
Verified Verified
Vinton, VA 24179
We are currently accepting clients ages 18 and up. Our therapists are experienced and have a passion to help others who have experienced traumatic events or stressful life situations. It is our goal to help with finding healthy perceptions of themselves, and to strengthen interpersonal relationships. We offer in person, and online counseling. We look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
We are currently accepting clients ages 18 and up. Our therapists are experienced and have a passion to help others who have experienced traumatic events or stressful life situations. It is our goal to help with finding healthy perceptions of themselves, and to strengthen interpersonal relationships. We offer in person, and online counseling. We look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(540) 318-2402 View (540) 318-2402

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Kara Jones, MAEd, Pre-Licensed Professional
Kara Jones
Pre-Licensed Professional, MAEd
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Waitlist for new clients
I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness.
Difficult life experiences often make us feel powerless, overwhelmed, and like our voice was taken from us. My goal is to help you find your voice and to empower you to make changes to reach your therapeutic goals as I support you with compassion, empathy, and non-judgment. First and foremost, I strive to make my clients feel seen, heard, and accepted.
I use a variety of techniques including EMDR, solution-focused therapy, and mindfulness.
Difficult life experiences often make us feel powerless, overwhelmed, and like our voice was taken from us. My goal is to help you find your voice and to empower you to make changes to reach your therapeutic goals as I support you with compassion, empathy, and non-judgment. First and foremost, I strive to make my clients feel seen, heard, and accepted.
(540) 506-4558 View (540) 506-4558
Photo of Heidi Ann Taylor, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Heidi Ann Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in helping clients find their personal path to healing and growth by utilizing a strength based approach that incorporates CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness-based techniques, guided imagery and expressive therapies.
Welcome. You have taken the first courageous step in seeking help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over thirty-five years of clinical experience. I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: stress, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transition issues and copendency. I have a master's degree in Counseling from West Virginia University and am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR). Additionally, I am a certified Clinical Supervisor and am open to supervising counseling residents as well as licensed professionals.
I specialize in helping clients find their personal path to healing and growth by utilizing a strength based approach that incorporates CBT, EMDR, Mindfulness-based techniques, guided imagery and expressive therapies.
Welcome. You have taken the first courageous step in seeking help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over thirty-five years of clinical experience. I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: stress, anxiety, relationship issues, grief and loss, life transition issues and copendency. I have a master's degree in Counseling from West Virginia University and am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR). Additionally, I am a certified Clinical Supervisor and am open to supervising counseling residents as well as licensed professionals.
(540) 782-3911 View (540) 782-3911
Photo of Olivia Oakley, MSW
Olivia Oakley
Supervisee in Clinical Social Work, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cave Spring, VA 24018
I am also trained in EMDR techniques.
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 also trained in EMDR techniques.
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 Anna Wright, PsyD, Psychologist
Anna Wright
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
I value life-long learning and am currently being trained in EMDR to better serve my clients.
My professional passions include helping clients recover from traumatic life experiences, creating welcoming spaces for LGBTQ people to live their fullest lives, and supporting folks in their pursuit of whole health and self-knowledge. My goal as a therapist is to meet you where you are and help equip you with tools that will allow you to face current stressors as well as previous difficult chapters of life. I believe a therapeutic relationship that offers a sense of welcome, acceptance, and safety is vital to embark upon the process of change.
I value life-long learning and am currently being trained in EMDR to better serve my clients.
My professional passions include helping clients recover from traumatic life experiences, creating welcoming spaces for LGBTQ people to live their fullest lives, and supporting folks in their pursuit of whole health and self-knowledge. My goal as a therapist is to meet you where you are and help equip you with tools that will allow you to face current stressors as well as previous difficult chapters of life. I believe a therapeutic relationship that offers a sense of welcome, acceptance, and safety is vital to embark upon the process of change.
(540) 573-2130 View (540) 573-2130
Photo of Erika Hughes, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erika Hughes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
I practice an eclectic therapeutic approach utilizing EMDR and Ego State Therapy (parts work) to help stabilize clients and to help clients work through trauma and attachment wounds.
Are you ready to make a change and improve your life? I If so, I can help. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, a certified EMDR therapist. I have over 15 years of counseling experience working with adolescents and adults. My area of expertise is treating substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and trauma including PTSD. I guide and support clients helping them process through traumatic events, adapt to life challenges, and improve their quality of life.
I practice an eclectic therapeutic approach utilizing EMDR and Ego State Therapy (parts work) to help stabilize clients and to help clients work through trauma and attachment wounds.
Are you ready to make a change and improve your life? I If so, I can help. I'm a Licensed Professional Counselor, a certified EMDR therapist. I have over 15 years of counseling experience working with adolescents and adults. My area of expertise is treating substance use disorders, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and trauma including PTSD. I guide and support clients helping them process through traumatic events, adapt to life challenges, and improve their quality of life.
(540) 210-1718 View (540) 210-1718
Photo of Stephanie D Hewitt - Clarity Counseling and Assessment, LCSW, CSOTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Clarity Counseling and Assessment
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CSOTP
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
I offer EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have special experience working with children and families involved in the child-welfare system and with children who have sexual behavior issues.
Whether you are a college student forging your own path while evaluating your childhood, a young adult striving to create meaningful relationships, a spouse with marital conflict, a parent trying to break intergenerational cycles, someone struggling with panic, anxiety, depression, or are looking to overcome a specific trauma, you don't have to do it alone. When therapy is honored as a collaborative relationship and is guided by effective practice, it has the power to change individual experiences and relationships.
I offer EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and have special experience working with children and families involved in the child-welfare system and with children who have sexual behavior issues.
Whether you are a college student forging your own path while evaluating your childhood, a young adult striving to create meaningful relationships, a spouse with marital conflict, a parent trying to break intergenerational cycles, someone struggling with panic, anxiety, depression, or are looking to overcome a specific trauma, you don't have to do it alone. When therapy is honored as a collaborative relationship and is guided by effective practice, it has the power to change individual experiences and relationships.
(540) 401-8863 View (540) 401-8863
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 Ida Parineetha Braford, MA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Ida Parineetha Braford
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24018  (Online Only)
I also offer EMDR interventions for individuals.
Do you worry about all the things you are juggling and losing sleep? Are you struggling in your relationships? Are you sad about the state of this world and finding that the stressors of life are beginning to get overwhelming? I am here to support you and walk with you through this season. Sometimes it can be difficult to express your needs and to look into your past. I help you explore yourself, your strengths, your difficulties, your desires, and your fears by creating a brave space where we focus on growth and building resilience with empathy.
I also offer EMDR interventions for individuals.
Do you worry about all the things you are juggling and losing sleep? Are you struggling in your relationships? Are you sad about the state of this world and finding that the stressors of life are beginning to get overwhelming? I am here to support you and walk with you through this season. Sometimes it can be difficult to express your needs and to look into your past. I help you explore yourself, your strengths, your difficulties, your desires, and your fears by creating a brave space where we focus on growth and building resilience with empathy.
(804) 596-6806 View (804) 596-6806
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 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 Dr. Mary Ann S. Callen, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Mary Ann S. Callen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24014
I have specialized training and 15 years of experience using evidence-based and integrative treatments that include Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Clinical Hypnosis .
For many, the approach of autumn signals change. The relaxed lifestyle of summer yields to eager anticipation of cooler weather and vibrant fall foliage. It’s a time to readjust our priorities to meet the demands of family, work, school, and sports. Many individuals feel wistful or melancholy as they shift from their relaxed summer routines back to the daily grind. If sadness or anxiety keep you from enjoying life, or if you are overwhelmed by feelings of grief or everyday expectations, it may be time to think about making personal changes. Invest in yourself. Let me help you learn to make changes that will work for you.
I have specialized training and 15 years of experience using evidence-based and integrative treatments that include Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), and Clinical Hypnosis .
For many, the approach of autumn signals change. The relaxed lifestyle of summer yields to eager anticipation of cooler weather and vibrant fall foliage. It’s a time to readjust our priorities to meet the demands of family, work, school, and sports. Many individuals feel wistful or melancholy as they shift from their relaxed summer routines back to the daily grind. If sadness or anxiety keep you from enjoying life, or if you are overwhelmed by feelings of grief or everyday expectations, it may be time to think about making personal changes. Invest in yourself. Let me help you learn to make changes that will work for you.
(540) 632-0847 View (540) 632-0847
Photo of Andrea Church Harris, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea Church Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Cave Spring, VA 24018
EMDR is a form of treatment that helps the brain change the way emotional information is stored and helps the mind figure out its own way to get resolution regarding negative feelings, distressing thoughts, and uncomfortable body sensations.
Andrea Church is a Resident in Counseling working towards licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She has over three years of clinical experience conducting both individual and group therapy in a variety of settings. She best serves children (ages 10 and up), adolescents, and adults with treatment needs such as anxiety, substance use, grief, depression, and trauma. Andrea is trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) to treat trauma symptoms.
EMDR is a form of treatment that helps the brain change the way emotional information is stored and helps the mind figure out its own way to get resolution regarding negative feelings, distressing thoughts, and uncomfortable body sensations.
Andrea Church is a Resident in Counseling working towards licensure as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC). She has over three years of clinical experience conducting both individual and group therapy in a variety of settings. She best serves children (ages 10 and up), adolescents, and adults with treatment needs such as anxiety, substance use, grief, depression, and trauma. Andrea is trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) to treat trauma symptoms.
(540) 802-5806 View (540) 802-5806
Photo of Jan Nicholson, EdD, Psychologist
Jan Nicholson
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
Waitlist for new clients
Our sessions can blend talk therapy with innovative integrative approaches such as hypnosis, EMDR, and awareness meditation, fostering the growth of your holistic well-being.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Jan, a compassionate Harvard-educated psychologist with many years of experience in the integration and healing of mind, body, and spirit. Whether we meet online or in person, my goal is to create a safe nurturing space for you to embark on a journey of discovery, self-awareness, and transformation. In my practice, I offer support to individuals of all ages navigating life's many challenges: to better manage anxiety, stress, and depression related to medical conditions, life transitions, loss, everyday struggles as well as trauma. Many people come to me specifically to pursue personal and spiritual growth.
Our sessions can blend talk therapy with innovative integrative approaches such as hypnosis, EMDR, and awareness meditation, fostering the growth of your holistic well-being.
Welcome! I'm Dr. Jan, a compassionate Harvard-educated psychologist with many years of experience in the integration and healing of mind, body, and spirit. Whether we meet online or in person, my goal is to create a safe nurturing space for you to embark on a journey of discovery, self-awareness, and transformation. In my practice, I offer support to individuals of all ages navigating life's many challenges: to better manage anxiety, stress, and depression related to medical conditions, life transitions, loss, everyday struggles as well as trauma. Many people come to me specifically to pursue personal and spiritual growth.
(540) 506-3713 View (540) 506-3713
Photo of Holly Humphreys - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Roanoke, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Roanoke
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24012
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(540) 698-4604 View (540) 698-4604

See more therapy options for Vinton

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.