EMDR Therapists in Dalton, GA

Photo of Maura S. Kalafut, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dalton, GA
Maura S. Kalafut
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, CCTP
Verified Verified
Dalton, GA 30720
I integrate IFS and EMDR strategies to assist clients with healing from trauma.
Sometimes life is messy and it can be difficult to manage the many daily stressors and responsibilities you face. Are you experiencing anxiety or depression? Are you having difficulty managing the effects of past or recent trauma? I will walk with you on your journey for improved health and well-being. I collaborate with you to set strengths-based goals to help you learn and practice techniques to reduce current difficulties. I will assist you in building hope for the future you desire. As the founder of Prelude Mental Health Counseling, I will begin seeing clients September 19th, 2022.
I integrate IFS and EMDR strategies to assist clients with healing from trauma.
Sometimes life is messy and it can be difficult to manage the many daily stressors and responsibilities you face. Are you experiencing anxiety or depression? Are you having difficulty managing the effects of past or recent trauma? I will walk with you on your journey for improved health and well-being. I collaborate with you to set strengths-based goals to help you learn and practice techniques to reduce current difficulties. I will assist you in building hope for the future you desire. As the founder of Prelude Mental Health Counseling, I will begin seeing clients September 19th, 2022.
(706) 229-7933 View (706) 229-7933
Photo of Paula Collins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dalton, GA
Paula Collins
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Dalton, GA 30719  (Online Only)
Are you feeling sad, depressed, or anxious? Struggling in your relationships? Whether it's a normal life transition or changes you did not ask for or expect, I would consider it a privilege to walk along side you through grief, trauma, or loss. I am a seasoned, trauma-informed counselor, certified in EMDR. Your healing journey begins with a phone call. Online sessions are convenient and it is easy to get started. Take the first step toward emotional healing by scheduling an appointment today.
Are you feeling sad, depressed, or anxious? Struggling in your relationships? Whether it's a normal life transition or changes you did not ask for or expect, I would consider it a privilege to walk along side you through grief, trauma, or loss. I am a seasoned, trauma-informed counselor, certified in EMDR. Your healing journey begins with a phone call. Online sessions are convenient and it is easy to get started. Take the first step toward emotional healing by scheduling an appointment today.
(706) 493-7431 View (706) 493-7431
Photo of Dr. Joel D. Lyon, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dalton, GA
Dr. Joel D. Lyon
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, CPS
Verified Verified
Dalton, GA 30721
Hi. My name is Joel. I have been practicing for 18 years working mostly with adolescents and adults effected by trauma, grief, depression and anger.
Hi. My name is Joel. I have been practicing for 18 years working mostly with adolescents and adults effected by trauma, grief, depression and anger.
(706) 659-9695 View (706) 659-9695
Photo of Balanced Living Counseling Center, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dalton, GA
Balanced Living Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Dalton, GA 30721
At Balanced Living Psychotherapy and Wellness, we are 100% committed to creating an environment that focuses on you. We are a group practice that has numerous clinicians with a variety of specialties that we can suit towards our clients needs. Our clinicians are seasoned counselors, and our committed to helping our clients on their journey. We offer same day, next day appointments, when available. Our practice accepts most insurance plans, and we can offer our clients an experience unique in NW Georgia.
At Balanced Living Psychotherapy and Wellness, we are 100% committed to creating an environment that focuses on you. We are a group practice that has numerous clinicians with a variety of specialties that we can suit towards our clients needs. Our clinicians are seasoned counselors, and our committed to helping our clients on their journey. We offer same day, next day appointments, when available. Our practice accepts most insurance plans, and we can offer our clients an experience unique in NW Georgia.
(762) 225-9228 View (762) 225-9228
Photo of Jeffrey S Eckert, Psychologist in Dalton, GA
Jeffrey S Eckert
Psychologist, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Dalton, GA 30720
Over the past 28 years, I have enjoyed working with individuals, couples and families from a relational perspective. I particularly enjoy working with men who struggle with issues of communication and intimacy. My counseling takes a dynamic, interpersonal approach to seeking healing, because I believe that we grow in the context of intentional community with one another. While I am a Christian, I welcome those into my office from all world views and perspectives.
Over the past 28 years, I have enjoyed working with individuals, couples and families from a relational perspective. I particularly enjoy working with men who struggle with issues of communication and intimacy. My counseling takes a dynamic, interpersonal approach to seeking healing, because I believe that we grow in the context of intentional community with one another. While I am a Christian, I welcome those into my office from all world views and perspectives.
(423) 758-8410 View (423) 758-8410
Photo of Sarah Gowin, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dalton, GA
Sarah Gowin
Licensed Professional Counselor, MCOUN, LPC
Verified Verified
Dalton, GA 30720
Not accepting new clients
I am also trained in EMDR, which is a highly effective therapy for PTSD.
********I regret that at the moment I'm unable to accept new clients.************ You may be in the middle of a difficult time. Whether it is grief, anxiety, a major transition, or just life, I believe that there is hope for things to get better. Helping people find ways to change and grow is my passion. I am a fully licensed therapist and I have had nine years of experience working with many different kinds of people in diverse settings. I create a compassionate and safe place for you to work on what is most important to you.
I am also trained in EMDR, which is a highly effective therapy for PTSD.
********I regret that at the moment I'm unable to accept new clients.************ You may be in the middle of a difficult time. Whether it is grief, anxiety, a major transition, or just life, I believe that there is hope for things to get better. Helping people find ways to change and grow is my passion. I am a fully licensed therapist and I have had nine years of experience working with many different kinds of people in diverse settings. I create a compassionate and safe place for you to work on what is most important to you.
(762) 200-1882 x702 View (762) 200-1882 x702
Photo of Pam Guess, Psychologist in Dalton, GA
Pam Guess
Psychologist, PhD, HSP
Verified Verified
Dalton, GA 30720
Not accepting new clients
As a Psychologist with over thirty years of practice, I have had the opportunity to work alongside individuals and families as they have faced physical, emotional, interpersonal, and intrapersonal life challenges. I often see clients with issues such as depression, anxiety/stress, life transitions, and adjustments to changes in health. While life challenges often shift our focus to what may feel fragile within, I passionately believe that we can find a place of inner strength and regain a sense of .wellness. Thank you for your time in reading about my practice; I look forward to the possibility of meeting with you.
As a Psychologist with over thirty years of practice, I have had the opportunity to work alongside individuals and families as they have faced physical, emotional, interpersonal, and intrapersonal life challenges. I often see clients with issues such as depression, anxiety/stress, life transitions, and adjustments to changes in health. While life challenges often shift our focus to what may feel fragile within, I passionately believe that we can find a place of inner strength and regain a sense of .wellness. Thank you for your time in reading about my practice; I look forward to the possibility of meeting with you.
(423) 415-4220 View (423) 415-4220

Online Therapists

Photo of Shannon Mathis Meyer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dalton, GA
Shannon Mathis Meyer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Powder Springs, GA 30127
I am a licensed clinical social worker and a trauma-informed therapist with twelve years of clinical experience. I use techniques such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, ERP, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal psychotherapy to identify and address your concerns collaboratively. I work best with clients 13 years and above, and My areas of expertise include trauma, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, interpersonal conflicts, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I whole-heartedly believe that people can change and grow and heal from trauma and any other experience they have in their past.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and a trauma-informed therapist with twelve years of clinical experience. I use techniques such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, ERP, Motivational Interviewing, and Interpersonal psychotherapy to identify and address your concerns collaboratively. I work best with clients 13 years and above, and My areas of expertise include trauma, depressive disorders, bipolar disorder, anxiety disorders, OCD, interpersonal conflicts, life transitions, and LGBTQIA+ issues. I whole-heartedly believe that people can change and grow and heal from trauma and any other experience they have in their past.
(678) 726-5773 View (678) 726-5773
Photo of Jessica Henry, Psychologist in Dalton, GA
Jessica Henry
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30329  (Online Only)
, EMDR, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, PCIT) to youth, families, and adults coping with traumatic stress (e.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years of therapy experience. I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
, EMDR, Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavior Therapy, PCIT) to youth, families, and adults coping with traumatic stress (e.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist with more than 10 years of therapy experience. I am passionate about the mental health of individuals struggling with Posttraumatic Stress Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I have successfully helped children, families, and adults with adjustment difficulties, traumatic stress exposure, and other concerns that impact their daily functioning.
(770) 824-0690 View (770) 824-0690
Photo of Dr. Chyna Hill, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dalton, GA
Dr. Chyna Hill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, MA/MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30305  (Online Only)
Whether you searched “EMDR therapists near me”, “Therapy for Black Girls”, or “therapists who take insurance”, you’re probably in the right place.
Before we go any further, I want you to know that you are deserving of the person you’re trying to become. Got it? Cool. So here we go. I’m Dr. Hill and I’m here to heal (see what I did there?). I’m audacious, authentic, and unapologetic. I believe in boundaries, transparency, and owning your shit. If you broke the egg? You broke the egg and that's okay because healing isn't always bubble baths and yoga. Sometimes it's messy. If you’re looking to process the childhood you never recovered from, your mother’s inability to nurture you, or a toxic workplace environment? You've met your match! I service clients in California & Georgia.
Whether you searched “EMDR therapists near me”, “Therapy for Black Girls”, or “therapists who take insurance”, you’re probably in the right place.
Before we go any further, I want you to know that you are deserving of the person you’re trying to become. Got it? Cool. So here we go. I’m Dr. Hill and I’m here to heal (see what I did there?). I’m audacious, authentic, and unapologetic. I believe in boundaries, transparency, and owning your shit. If you broke the egg? You broke the egg and that's okay because healing isn't always bubble baths and yoga. Sometimes it's messy. If you’re looking to process the childhood you never recovered from, your mother’s inability to nurture you, or a toxic workplace environment? You've met your match! I service clients in California & Georgia.
(949) 649-6334 View (949) 649-6334
Photo of Anne Moss, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dalton, GA
Anne Moss
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LCAS, CAADC
Verified Verified
Smyrna, GA 30080  (Online Only)
Racing thoughts? Having a hard time concentrating? Zero motivation? Stress in your relationship? Overwhelmed? Scared to ask or seek help? I get it. I will listen and help you learn effective tools that will begin your journey to feeling more in control and regaining the quality of life that is important to you. I have over 18 years of experience with mental health issues as well as substance abuse. I am available for a free phone consultation. We can work together to help you find the control and quality of life you are looking for. Please give me a call, it's the first step to feeling better! (+ EMDR for trauma related symptoms).
Racing thoughts? Having a hard time concentrating? Zero motivation? Stress in your relationship? Overwhelmed? Scared to ask or seek help? I get it. I will listen and help you learn effective tools that will begin your journey to feeling more in control and regaining the quality of life that is important to you. I have over 18 years of experience with mental health issues as well as substance abuse. I am available for a free phone consultation. We can work together to help you find the control and quality of life you are looking for. Please give me a call, it's the first step to feeling better! (+ EMDR for trauma related symptoms).
(678) 883-7340 View (678) 883-7340
Photo of Allison Bienenfeld, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dalton, GA
Allison Bienenfeld
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Conyers, GA 30094  (Online Only)
I am EMDR certified; I draw from a variety of evidenced-based practices & clinical intuition.
Has traditional talk therapy not felt like "enough"? Do you find it difficult to put words together to describe your experiences? Have you found yourself stuck in patterns, situations, or relationships that don't quite make sense but continue to play out in your life? Or you may be concerned about the functioning of an important young person in your life. If you are curious about accessing your individual wisdom and unique strengths to overcome obstacles and work towards personal, family, academic, or professional goals, I encourage you to read on.
I am EMDR certified; I draw from a variety of evidenced-based practices & clinical intuition.
Has traditional talk therapy not felt like "enough"? Do you find it difficult to put words together to describe your experiences? Have you found yourself stuck in patterns, situations, or relationships that don't quite make sense but continue to play out in your life? Or you may be concerned about the functioning of an important young person in your life. If you are curious about accessing your individual wisdom and unique strengths to overcome obstacles and work towards personal, family, academic, or professional goals, I encourage you to read on.
(770) 336-6798 View (770) 336-6798
Photo of Monique Wischusen, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dalton, GA
Monique Wischusen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Scottdale, GA 30079  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Session times are 9 am-12 pm M-F. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Georgia. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of New Orleans and my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern Mississippi. I also earned the TeleMental Health Training Certificate (THTC) through the completion of the comprehensive THTC program. I have training in EMDR and Internal Family Systems and also am an adjunct faculty at the University of Southern New Hampshire in the Psychology Department.
Session times are 9 am-12 pm M-F. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the State of Georgia. I received my Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of New Orleans and my Master of Science in Marriage and Family Therapy from the University of Southern Mississippi. I also earned the TeleMental Health Training Certificate (THTC) through the completion of the comprehensive THTC program. I have training in EMDR and Internal Family Systems and also am an adjunct faculty at the University of Southern New Hampshire in the Psychology Department.
(404) 369-1041 View (404) 369-1041
Photo of Carleen Marie Newsome, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dalton, GA
Carleen Marie Newsome
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPCS, ACS
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
I am a Certified Daring Way Facilitator specializing in the work of Brené Brown, an intensively trained DBT therapist who works extensively with dysregulated emotions, self-harming behaviors and suicidal ideation and a certified in EMDR practitioner.
Are you struggling or feeling stuck? Are you having difficulty creating the life you have always imagined? Do you feel that despite your best efforts it is never enough? I fundamentally believe that we are all doing the best we can at any given moment, that we are innately driven towards positive growth and that sometimes we need help along the way. I find it an honor to walk beside my clients as they navigate their journey towards increased hope, enhanced life satisfaction, greater spirituality and sustainable peace.
I am a Certified Daring Way Facilitator specializing in the work of Brené Brown, an intensively trained DBT therapist who works extensively with dysregulated emotions, self-harming behaviors and suicidal ideation and a certified in EMDR practitioner.
Are you struggling or feeling stuck? Are you having difficulty creating the life you have always imagined? Do you feel that despite your best efforts it is never enough? I fundamentally believe that we are all doing the best we can at any given moment, that we are innately driven towards positive growth and that sometimes we need help along the way. I find it an honor to walk beside my clients as they navigate their journey towards increased hope, enhanced life satisfaction, greater spirituality and sustainable peace.
(678) 345-0349 View (678) 345-0349
Photo of Sonia Maxwell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Dalton, GA
Sonia Maxwell
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Alpharetta, GA 30022
Another one of my specialties is EMDR, a physiologically based therapy for the treatment of conditions such as PTSD, various anxiety disorders, complicated grief, adult or childhood trauma, combat trauma, and physical or emotional abuse.
In my work with couples, adults, and teens, my hope is that clients will leave therapy confident in their strengths, equipped to make wise choices, and empowered to maintain healthier lives and relationships. While the content of sessions depends on client needs/preferences, I typically work to alleviate negative symptoms within the context of current circumstances, help identify the root of challenges, and modify unhealthy cognitive and emotional processes. I use interventions that help clients break through an impasse and equip them with practical solutions for future problem-solving. I offer targeted short-term counseling or in-depth therapy that identifies and replaces negative patterns.
Another one of my specialties is EMDR, a physiologically based therapy for the treatment of conditions such as PTSD, various anxiety disorders, complicated grief, adult or childhood trauma, combat trauma, and physical or emotional abuse.
In my work with couples, adults, and teens, my hope is that clients will leave therapy confident in their strengths, equipped to make wise choices, and empowered to maintain healthier lives and relationships. While the content of sessions depends on client needs/preferences, I typically work to alleviate negative symptoms within the context of current circumstances, help identify the root of challenges, and modify unhealthy cognitive and emotional processes. I use interventions that help clients break through an impasse and equip them with practical solutions for future problem-solving. I offer targeted short-term counseling or in-depth therapy that identifies and replaces negative patterns.
(678) 967-3959 View (678) 967-3959
Photo of Janice McLeroy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dalton, GA
Janice McLeroy
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdS, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Peachtree City, GA 30269
Today's teens face different types of stressors than those to which we adults were exposed. Our culture, with its social media and overly committed lifestyle of busyness, sets our young people up for increased anxiety, depression, and a lack of genuine understanding of who they are. I am passionate about helping young people live life in wholeness. I see ages nine and up. My areas of specialty are ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, stress management, school-related issues, and family transitions. I'm trained in EMDR, a therapy technique for those who've experienced trauma.
Today's teens face different types of stressors than those to which we adults were exposed. Our culture, with its social media and overly committed lifestyle of busyness, sets our young people up for increased anxiety, depression, and a lack of genuine understanding of who they are. I am passionate about helping young people live life in wholeness. I see ages nine and up. My areas of specialty are ADHD, anxiety, depression, self-harming behaviors, stress management, school-related issues, and family transitions. I'm trained in EMDR, a therapy technique for those who've experienced trauma.
(470) 823-7363 View (470) 823-7363
Photo of Charmaine Walker, Center of You Counseling, EMDR, Licensed Professional Counselor in Dalton, GA
Charmaine Walker, Center of You Counseling, EMDR
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McDonough, GA 30253
At Center of You Counseling, I specialize in assisting accomplished and successful women who find themselves trapped by their anxiety, depression, or past traumatic experiences. Despite their achievements, they may feel dissatisfied with their lives even after trying various self-improvement methods and consulting different therapists. Now is the ideal time to experience success internally as well as externally. By combining solution-focused brief therapy, EMDR, and clinical hypnotherapy with yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices, I enable clients to process and heal from their past experiences.
At Center of You Counseling, I specialize in assisting accomplished and successful women who find themselves trapped by their anxiety, depression, or past traumatic experiences. Despite their achievements, they may feel dissatisfied with their lives even after trying various self-improvement methods and consulting different therapists. Now is the ideal time to experience success internally as well as externally. By combining solution-focused brief therapy, EMDR, and clinical hypnotherapy with yoga, meditation, and mindfulness practices, I enable clients to process and heal from their past experiences.
(770) 249-4468 View (770) 249-4468
Photo of Shambria Stoll, Counselor in Dalton, GA
Shambria Stoll
Counselor, MEd, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30318  (Online Only)
I am certified in Brainspotting and trained in EMDR.
Welcome! My name is Shambria Stoll, my goal is to create a safe space for my clients to thrive and embrace their healing journey. I understand that taking the first step in your therapeutic journey can be overwhelming, therefore creating a safe and comfortable space is my priority. I work with teens and young adults providing a safe, affirming, non-judgmental space for healing and support. I specialize working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma that may manifest as people-pleasing tendencies, perfectionism, or poor boundaries.
I am certified in Brainspotting and trained in EMDR.
Welcome! My name is Shambria Stoll, my goal is to create a safe space for my clients to thrive and embrace their healing journey. I understand that taking the first step in your therapeutic journey can be overwhelming, therefore creating a safe and comfortable space is my priority. I work with teens and young adults providing a safe, affirming, non-judgmental space for healing and support. I specialize working with individuals who have experienced various forms of trauma that may manifest as people-pleasing tendencies, perfectionism, or poor boundaries.
(833) 432-5285 x11 View (833) 432-5285 x11
Photo of Kelley Delchamps, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dalton, GA
Kelley Delchamps
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Decatur, GA 30030
I'm EMDR trained, which is powerful for clients processing trauma.
Are you looking for a place to work through trauma's impact, heal amidst anxiety, and find peace as your authentic self? I would be honored to cultivate space for you to share your story and be met with compassion. Seeking out therapy is courageous and rewarding. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, as we all face challenges in this life. My vision is to journey with clients as we lean into the truths that our stories and experiences are valid, and finding compassion for our imperfections is often where we find our greatest strength.
I'm EMDR trained, which is powerful for clients processing trauma.
Are you looking for a place to work through trauma's impact, heal amidst anxiety, and find peace as your authentic self? I would be honored to cultivate space for you to share your story and be met with compassion. Seeking out therapy is courageous and rewarding. I believe everyone can benefit from therapy, as we all face challenges in this life. My vision is to journey with clients as we lean into the truths that our stories and experiences are valid, and finding compassion for our imperfections is often where we find our greatest strength.
(404) 974-3676 View (404) 974-3676
Photo of Tom Liu, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Dalton, GA
Tom Liu
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP, IFS, EMDR, EFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Atlanta, GA 30345
I have 600 hours of post-graduate certifications in: EMDR, IFS, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing and Positive Psychology.
Are you feeling under-motivated, stuck in a career you don't want, in an emotionally draining relationship, and not feeling any zest for life? Are you a high performer who doesn’t know how to quiet your anxiety? Does the life you dream of seem very far from where you are today? Are your past traumas continuously affecting your present life? I can help you! If you are between the ages of 18 to 60 and have faced significant challenges, you need a therapist/coach who is passionate about his profession and uses the best, scientifically backed methodologies to help you heal from the past, engage in your present, and reshape your future!
I have 600 hours of post-graduate certifications in: EMDR, IFS, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Somatic Experiencing and Positive Psychology.
Are you feeling under-motivated, stuck in a career you don't want, in an emotionally draining relationship, and not feeling any zest for life? Are you a high performer who doesn’t know how to quiet your anxiety? Does the life you dream of seem very far from where you are today? Are your past traumas continuously affecting your present life? I can help you! If you are between the ages of 18 to 60 and have faced significant challenges, you need a therapist/coach who is passionate about his profession and uses the best, scientifically backed methodologies to help you heal from the past, engage in your present, and reshape your future!
(310) 307-8104 View (310) 307-8104

Nearby EMDR Therapists Searches for Dalton

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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.