EMDR Therapists in Warrenton, VA

Photo of Deborah Vara - Anxiety and Trauma Recovery Therapist Deborah Vara, MA, LPC, CCATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Anxiety and Trauma Recovery Therapist Deborah Vara
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, CCATP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
Clients come to me looking for a therapist who treats anxiety and trauma using various methods such as CBT, DBT, EMDR and Exposure, because therapy should be a place where you feel safe and heard.
Do you find yourself broken, uncertain with your future and how to heal from your trauma? You second guess your relationships, and have difficulty trusting others? You want to appear like you have it all together, but you are struggling to feel purpose, and life full of peace and happiness. You may be fed up with the inability to move forward from traumatic events, feeling alone or not enough. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to get unstuck and challenge yourself. Most of all, you’re ready to gain acceptance, confidence and peace.
Clients come to me looking for a therapist who treats anxiety and trauma using various methods such as CBT, DBT, EMDR and Exposure, because therapy should be a place where you feel safe and heard.
Do you find yourself broken, uncertain with your future and how to heal from your trauma? You second guess your relationships, and have difficulty trusting others? You want to appear like you have it all together, but you are struggling to feel purpose, and life full of peace and happiness. You may be fed up with the inability to move forward from traumatic events, feeling alone or not enough. You might not even remember a time things didn’t feel this way. But one thing is for sure: you’re ready for some relief. You’re ready to get unstuck and challenge yourself. Most of all, you’re ready to gain acceptance, confidence and peace.
(540) 405-6714 View (540) 405-6714
Photo of Heather Sauceda, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Sauceda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
I offer a range of evidence-based services including EMDR, with a strong educational beginning if this is your first time with a counselor.
When faced with questions like "Can I handle this?" or "Why do I keep making these choices?" and statements such as "I don't think I can move past this," it's important to know that you're not alone. Many clients I work with share similar feelings and thoughts. Specializing in trauma, together we will find ways to navigate hardships and build bridges to recovery. With a blend of therapy, laughter, and levity, I help clients reframe and rebuild their personal stories. Whether you're struggling with codependency, trauma, or simply looking for understanding and growth, I am here to support you.
I offer a range of evidence-based services including EMDR, with a strong educational beginning if this is your first time with a counselor.
When faced with questions like "Can I handle this?" or "Why do I keep making these choices?" and statements such as "I don't think I can move past this," it's important to know that you're not alone. Many clients I work with share similar feelings and thoughts. Specializing in trauma, together we will find ways to navigate hardships and build bridges to recovery. With a blend of therapy, laughter, and levity, I help clients reframe and rebuild their personal stories. Whether you're struggling with codependency, trauma, or simply looking for understanding and growth, I am here to support you.
(540) 546-5458 View (540) 546-5458
Photo of Debbie Anderson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Debbie Anderson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187
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 Patrick Lee Gibbons, LPC, MMFT, MAR, Licensed Professional Counselor
Patrick Lee Gibbons
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MMFT, MAR
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187
I am an LPC with a Master degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I also possess a Seminary Master degree in Biblical Studies to provide faith-based therapeutic support. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis. I am also trained in EMDR. Further trained to treat substance, alcohol and sexual issues. I work with individuals, couples and families. I have a passion for trauma work with all ages, knowing untreated trauma-events are emotional wounds that need be processed to allow for healing. I am currently paneled with most insurances in Virginia.
I am an LPC with a Master degree in Marriage and Family Therapy. I also possess a Seminary Master degree in Biblical Studies to provide faith-based therapeutic support. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy; Dialectical Behavioral Therapy and Applied Behavioral Analysis. I am also trained in EMDR. Further trained to treat substance, alcohol and sexual issues. I work with individuals, couples and families. I have a passion for trauma work with all ages, knowing untreated trauma-events are emotional wounds that need be processed to allow for healing. I am currently paneled with most insurances in Virginia.
(540) 579-0593 View (540) 579-0593
Photo of Ceres Artico Ph. D., PhD, LPC, LMFT, Licensed Professional Counselor
Ceres Artico Ph. D.
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
All of us have the ability and desire to heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling, lives. However, at times we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. Dr. Artico has over 20 years of experience helping couples, adults and teens become who they were meant to be. She is the director of Gainesville Family Counseling, has taught at George Mason University, and is the author of the book Latino Families Broken by Immigration. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), clinical supervision, and sandtray therapy.
All of us have the ability and desire to heal and lead meaningful, fulfilling, lives. However, at times we need professional help to overcome devastating feelings and life events. Dr. Artico has over 20 years of experience helping couples, adults and teens become who they were meant to be. She is the director of Gainesville Family Counseling, has taught at George Mason University, and is the author of the book Latino Families Broken by Immigration. She is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), has advanced training in Emotionally Focused Therapy for couples (EFT), clinical supervision, and sandtray therapy.
(703) 947-0838 View (703) 947-0838
Photo of Kate Ashley Lankford, MA, NCC
Kate Ashley Lankford
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
One of the modalities that I use to process trauma is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
There are many reasons people seek mental health care, perhaps they're going through a tough season in life or there has been complex trauma. Regardless of a client's reason for seeking therapy, my primary goal is to create a relationship supported by comfort and safety. I believe in collaborating with my clients to create a therapeutic plan that is specifically tailored to their individual needs and goals. For those interested I do offer a therapy animal to sit in on sessions and provide additional support.
One of the modalities that I use to process trauma is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
There are many reasons people seek mental health care, perhaps they're going through a tough season in life or there has been complex trauma. Regardless of a client's reason for seeking therapy, my primary goal is to create a relationship supported by comfort and safety. I believe in collaborating with my clients to create a therapeutic plan that is specifically tailored to their individual needs and goals. For those interested I do offer a therapy animal to sit in on sessions and provide additional support.
(540) 699-0073 View (540) 699-0073
Photo of Kate Yeutter - Paws2Heal Mental Health Counseling Services, PhD, LPC, CCTP II, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Paws2Heal Mental Health Counseling Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CCTP II, NCC
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
I specialize in trauma processing through EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with an emphasis on helping clients understand their own physiology and how it impacts them emotionally and cognitively.
Exploring therapy is not an easy decision; therefore it is our mission to make therapy as open, comfortable, and effective as possible for each client. The first goal for each individual entering my practice is to establish an environment of comfort and safety. For those interested, therapy animals are available to provide additional support throughout the experience. Each person who enters my practice is embraced as an individual, and the therapeutic experience is tailored specifically to best meet each person's needs.
I specialize in trauma processing through EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) with an emphasis on helping clients understand their own physiology and how it impacts them emotionally and cognitively.
Exploring therapy is not an easy decision; therefore it is our mission to make therapy as open, comfortable, and effective as possible for each client. The first goal for each individual entering my practice is to establish an environment of comfort and safety. For those interested, therapy animals are available to provide additional support throughout the experience. Each person who enters my practice is embraced as an individual, and the therapeutic experience is tailored specifically to best meet each person's needs.
(540) 426-3337 View (540) 426-3337
Photo of Mary Kirkpatrick, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, CATP, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mary Kirkpatrick
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, NCC, CCMHC, CATP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20187
I can help in many different ways including EMDR, talk therapy, and play therapy.
We have a few openings for adults and children at this time. We especially have availability for morning and mid-day appointments. I am an existential therapist dedicated to helping adults and children cope better with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life events, loss, trauma, and more. My goal is to help individuals, children, teens, adults, and couples solve their problems. I also help people of all ages manage their trauma, relieving bad memories with EMDR and parts work.
I can help in many different ways including EMDR, talk therapy, and play therapy.
We have a few openings for adults and children at this time. We especially have availability for morning and mid-day appointments. I am an existential therapist dedicated to helping adults and children cope better with anxiety, depression, mood disorders, life events, loss, trauma, and more. My goal is to help individuals, children, teens, adults, and couples solve their problems. I also help people of all ages manage their trauma, relieving bad memories with EMDR and parts work.
(540) 351-9685 View (540) 351-9685
Photo of Natalia Lueck - in Luck Counseling, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
in Luck Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186
Waitlist for new clients
Your journey in life has brought you to seek therapy from a professional. Therapy has the power to improve the quality of your life if you trust the process. Should you decide to hire us for this very important job, our focus will be on helping you feel strong and confident again. In the beginning, we will spend time listening to your story. We will then collaboratively identify realistic therapeutic goals.
Your journey in life has brought you to seek therapy from a professional. Therapy has the power to improve the quality of your life if you trust the process. Should you decide to hire us for this very important job, our focus will be on helping you feel strong and confident again. In the beginning, we will spend time listening to your story. We will then collaboratively identify realistic therapeutic goals.
(703) 997-6641 View (703) 997-6641
Photo of Mary Beth Williams, PhD, LCSW, CTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Beth Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, CTS
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
Working in the field of post-traumatic stress disorder with clients who have undergone a variety of events directly or indirectly has been both my specialty and my passion. I work with clients between the ages of 6 through seniors. I am the author of many articles and workbooks on trauma (The PTSD Workbook & Life After Trauma: A Workbook for Healing). I work a great deal with veterans of all wars and their families using a variety of techniques (cognitive behavioral therapy, belief challenging, narrative therapy and others.
Working in the field of post-traumatic stress disorder with clients who have undergone a variety of events directly or indirectly has been both my specialty and my passion. I work with clients between the ages of 6 through seniors. I am the author of many articles and workbooks on trauma (The PTSD Workbook & Life After Trauma: A Workbook for Healing). I work a great deal with veterans of all wars and their families using a variety of techniques (cognitive behavioral therapy, belief challenging, narrative therapy and others.
(540) 579-7225 View (540) 579-7225
Photo of Barry Lawlor - Youth For Tomorrow, LPC, NCC, DBTC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Youth For Tomorrow
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, DBTC
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
We provide behavioral health services with professional excellence, Christian integrity, professional insight, and genuine compassion. Our staff is comprised of therapists with various credentials, backgrounds, trainings, and specialties, so we are able to offer a wide variety of treatment, including play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and behavioral intervention. Our staff includes psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinicians, therapists, and nurses.
We provide behavioral health services with professional excellence, Christian integrity, professional insight, and genuine compassion. Our staff is comprised of therapists with various credentials, backgrounds, trainings, and specialties, so we are able to offer a wide variety of treatment, including play therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, and behavioral intervention. Our staff includes psychiatrists, psychologists, licensed clinicians, therapists, and nurses.
(571) 595-3876 View (571) 595-3876
Photo of Lorrie L Beyerl - Gainesville Professional Counseling Center, LPC, LCSW, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gainesville Professional Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20187
We realize that this past year has been overwhelming for everyone. We are here to help support you while we all continue to try to navigate uncharted waters. We want to help you find balance in your life.
We realize that this past year has been overwhelming for everyone. We are here to help support you while we all continue to try to navigate uncharted waters. We want to help you find balance in your life.
(571) 261-1921 View (571) 261-1921
Photo of Melissa B Shore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa B Shore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
As a therapist I work with you to find a clear path and better sense of self whether you have experienced depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship troubles, trauma, and/or attachment injuries. I work with adolescents, adults, parents, and couples from a contemporary relational depth perspective to help you find your direction and feel less alone.
As a therapist I work with you to find a clear path and better sense of self whether you have experienced depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, relationship troubles, trauma, and/or attachment injuries. I work with adolescents, adults, parents, and couples from a contemporary relational depth perspective to help you find your direction and feel less alone.
(434) 264-5386 View (434) 264-5386
Photo of Angela L. Conner - True Beginnings Therapy, LLC, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
True Beginnings Therapy, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Warrenton, VA 20186  (Online Only)
Welcome, and thank you for stopping by! My name is Angela Conner, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about helping children, adolescents and young adults create positive and purposeful relationships within themselves and others through the use of effective skills and inner strengths. As a woman of ambition and vision, I operate in alignment with my core values which are empowerment, resiliency, connection, and growth. These values greatly influence my ability to connect with my clients on a more meaningful level and demonstrate my determination and compassion as a catalyst for growth and promising change.
Welcome, and thank you for stopping by! My name is Angela Conner, and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor who is passionate about helping children, adolescents and young adults create positive and purposeful relationships within themselves and others through the use of effective skills and inner strengths. As a woman of ambition and vision, I operate in alignment with my core values which are empowerment, resiliency, connection, and growth. These values greatly influence my ability to connect with my clients on a more meaningful level and demonstrate my determination and compassion as a catalyst for growth and promising change.
(571) 583-4077 View (571) 583-4077
Photo of Stacey Philpot Of Life Repair Center, LPC, NCC, CRC, CCTP-II
Stacey Philpot Of Life Repair Center
LPC, NCC, CRC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Warrenton, VA 20186
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task and I am happy to answer questions along the way that might help you through the process. Joining with clients embarking on a path towards wholeness is one of my greatest joys! I use both values-based and strengths-based approaches, which allow me to meet you where you are and build a relationship while addressing your goals. I weave in CBT techniques, motivational interviewing skills, and humanistic interventions to help you move forward on your path. It is my hope that each individual I work with will find greater health and wholeness as we work together through their therapeutic journey.
Finding a therapist can be a daunting task and I am happy to answer questions along the way that might help you through the process. Joining with clients embarking on a path towards wholeness is one of my greatest joys! I use both values-based and strengths-based approaches, which allow me to meet you where you are and build a relationship while addressing your goals. I weave in CBT techniques, motivational interviewing skills, and humanistic interventions to help you move forward on your path. It is my hope that each individual I work with will find greater health and wholeness as we work together through their therapeutic journey.
(571) 601-2269 View (571) 601-2269

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bridget Kanz, CP, Psychologist
Bridget Kanz
Psychologist, CP
Verified Verified
Bealeton, VA 22712
However, my current work tends to be heavily influenced by Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR as well.
My name is Bridget Kanz and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I believe that every person has the desire and capacity to live a full and healthy life. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with the support and skills needed to realize your potential. I have worked with a wide variety of clients throughout my career and am very comfortable treating many conditions including anxiety/panic, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, personality disorders, and depression.
However, my current work tends to be heavily influenced by Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, and EMDR as well.
My name is Bridget Kanz and I am a licensed clinical psychologist. I believe that every person has the desire and capacity to live a full and healthy life. My goal as a therapist is to provide you with the support and skills needed to realize your potential. I have worked with a wide variety of clients throughout my career and am very comfortable treating many conditions including anxiety/panic, PTSD, bipolar, schizophrenia, schizoaffective, substance use, personality disorders, and depression.
(804) 361-8439 View (804) 361-8439
Photo of Kaitlin Westerman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaitlin Westerman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Haymarket, VA 20168
I use various modalities to fit the need of each person, including EMDR, Flash and CPT.
YOU can heal you! It’s not about what's wrong with you, it’s about what happened to you. Finding a safe space that encourages healing can be difficult to find and asking for help can be an intimidating prospect. I aim to help create a space where you can begin to reconnect with yourself, empowering all parts of you to choose the path YOU want. I want to help you approach emotions with curiosity and gentleness. Viewing behavior, thoughts, and feelings as techniques adapted to help us survive, we begin to move towards a place of acceptance. I want you to live a life free from emotional suffering, feeling stable in all areas of life.
I use various modalities to fit the need of each person, including EMDR, Flash and CPT.
YOU can heal you! It’s not about what's wrong with you, it’s about what happened to you. Finding a safe space that encourages healing can be difficult to find and asking for help can be an intimidating prospect. I aim to help create a space where you can begin to reconnect with yourself, empowering all parts of you to choose the path YOU want. I want to help you approach emotions with curiosity and gentleness. Viewing behavior, thoughts, and feelings as techniques adapted to help us survive, we begin to move towards a place of acceptance. I want you to live a life free from emotional suffering, feeling stable in all areas of life.
(571) 554-5246 View (571) 554-5246
Photo of Elayne Smith - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, GV
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital/precommitment therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, play therapy, trauma therapy, and EMDR.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital/precommitment therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, play therapy, trauma therapy, and EMDR.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
(703) 879-3275 View (703) 879-3275
Acadian Health Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Haymarket, VA 20169
We provide trauma care, play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, child behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, substance abuse counseling, motivational interviewing, LGBTQ community support, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR services and more.
We are dedicated to providing excellence with the highest quality mental health professionals. Each of our providers have specialized in distinct areas of care and provide unique forms of evidenced based techniques. This offers you variety and enables us to tailor to your specific needs. We believe in a multidisciplinary approach to mental health which involves Licensed Professional Counselors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Psychologists, Social Workers and Acupuncturist.
We provide trauma care, play therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy, child behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, substance abuse counseling, motivational interviewing, LGBTQ community support, cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR services and more.
We are dedicated to providing excellence with the highest quality mental health professionals. Each of our providers have specialized in distinct areas of care and provide unique forms of evidenced based techniques. This offers you variety and enables us to tailor to your specific needs. We believe in a multidisciplinary approach to mental health which involves Licensed Professional Counselors, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioners, Psychologists, Social Workers and Acupuncturist.
(571) 487-8206 View (571) 487-8206
Photo of Lisa McIntosh, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lisa McIntosh
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Jeffersonton, VA 22724
My most common theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) for trauma, Motivational Interviewing (MI) for alcohol and/or drug dependence, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for mood disorders and suicidal ideation.
My name is Lisa McIntosh, LPC License 0701008421. I have more than 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My holistic approach focuses on the individual's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. I also focus on rapport building, goal setting, and implementing evidence-based treatment to help individuals and families identify and change their troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
My most common theoretical approaches are Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) for trauma, Motivational Interviewing (MI) for alcohol and/or drug dependence, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) for mood disorders and suicidal ideation.
My name is Lisa McIntosh, LPC License 0701008421. I have more than 20 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults. My holistic approach focuses on the individual's emotional, psychological, and social well-being. I also focus on rapport building, goal setting, and implementing evidence-based treatment to help individuals and families identify and change their troubling emotions, thoughts, and behaviors.
(804) 805-4859 View (804) 805-4859
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.