EMDR Therapists in Roanoke, VA

Photo of Bailey Ratliff, Resident in Counseling in Roanoke, VA
Bailey Ratliff
Resident in Counseling, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
I have a clinical focus in trauma (EMDR), life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship counseling (Gottman level 1), and premarital counseling (SYMBIS).
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.
I have a clinical focus in trauma (EMDR), life transitions, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, relationship counseling (Gottman level 1), and premarital counseling (SYMBIS).
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 Whitney Artutis, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Whitney Artutis
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
I work with adults on adjustment to life issues, self-exploration, and offer EMDR and trauma-informed treatment.
I have NO availability for new clients, though our practice does have openings for new clients with Medicaid insurance or ability to self-pay! I believe that the relationship between client and counselor is the most important factor in how successful counseling will be. I want you to feel comfortable sharing details of your life with me so that we can move toward change together. I believe therapy is an incredible tool to know yourself, heal, and move toward change. I have been in therapy for many years and continue to participate in my own therapeutic journey as a client.
I work with adults on adjustment to life issues, self-exploration, and offer EMDR and trauma-informed treatment.
I have NO availability for new clients, though our practice does have openings for new clients with Medicaid insurance or ability to self-pay! I believe that the relationship between client and counselor is the most important factor in how successful counseling will be. I want you to feel comfortable sharing details of your life with me so that we can move toward change together. I believe therapy is an incredible tool to know yourself, heal, and move toward change. I have been in therapy for many years and continue to participate in my own therapeutic journey as a client.
(540) 274-2261 View (540) 274-2261
Photo of Mackenzie Coulson, Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Mackenzie Coulson
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016  (Online Only)
I use a combination of trauma focused approaches, parts work, and EMDR with a holistic model.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
I use a combination of trauma focused approaches, parts work, and EMDR with a holistic model.
Hey, my name is Mackenzie, but you can call me Max (I'm not much for formalities)! I'm glad you are here. I help women who struggle with depression, anxiety, and trauma to improve their quality of life. I am passionate about supporting people in overcoming barriers to living the way you want to live. You may be looking for support in building confidence, boundary setting, you may be looking for support in processing past trauma in a safe space, or you may be looking to connect with your inner child. Maybe it is something entirely different. Either way, you are on the right track, therapy is an amazing tool at every life stage.
(276) 859-5673 View (276) 859-5673
Photo of Felicia Lane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Felicia Lane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
Felicia utilizes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
Every individual has the power and ability to make positive changes and improve their life. Sometimes you just need extra support from an individual who is willing to meet you on your level and help you to obtain your own personal goals. Felicia has experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. She approaches counseling from a person centered perspective providing a safe, non-judgmental environment to process transitions, life events, trauma, and the means to strengthen your personal mental health.
Felicia utilizes a combination of cognitive behavioral therapy, trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy, cognitive processing therapy, and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy.
Every individual has the power and ability to make positive changes and improve their life. Sometimes you just need extra support from an individual who is willing to meet you on your level and help you to obtain your own personal goals. Felicia has experience working with adolescents, adults, and families. She approaches counseling from a person centered perspective providing a safe, non-judgmental environment to process transitions, life events, trauma, and the means to strengthen your personal mental health.
(540) 277-9353 View (540) 277-9353
Photo of Erika Hughes, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Erika Hughes
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24018
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, and a certified acudetox specialist. 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.
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, and a certified acudetox specialist. 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 Impact Living Services, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Impact Living Services
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24012
Are you tired of trying to handle the stresses of life alone? Do you feel like there is something holding you back from helping you reach your full potential? We believe that everyone can benefit from counseling with a skilled and caring professional. We want to help you make meaningful and extraordinary advances in your life, career, relationships, and happiness. We offer EMDR in Fairfax, Harrisonburg, and Lynchburg.
Are you tired of trying to handle the stresses of life alone? Do you feel like there is something holding you back from helping you reach your full potential? We believe that everyone can benefit from counseling with a skilled and caring professional. We want to help you make meaningful and extraordinary advances in your life, career, relationships, and happiness. We offer EMDR in Fairfax, Harrisonburg, and Lynchburg.
(434) 280-3093 View (434) 280-3093
Photo of Renae Hall, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Renae Hall
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24014
Life isn't always easy, and when the hard times come, it is nice to have a non-judgmental place to go where you feel heard and are comfortable. My hope is you will come as you are and begin to work through your "hard time," so that you leave feeling empowered, validated, safe, and recognize you are on your journey to healing. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and my trauma-informed background includes working with and treating children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD, oppositional defiance, anxiety, stress, depression, life changes, addiction, and trauma.
Life isn't always easy, and when the hard times come, it is nice to have a non-judgmental place to go where you feel heard and are comfortable. My hope is you will come as you are and begin to work through your "hard time," so that you leave feeling empowered, validated, safe, and recognize you are on your journey to healing. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and my trauma-informed background includes working with and treating children, adolescents, and adults with ADHD, oppositional defiance, anxiety, stress, depression, life changes, addiction, and trauma.
(540) 252-3151 View (540) 252-3151
Photo of Clarity Counseling and Assessment, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
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 Victor Rivera, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Victor Rivera
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24012  (Online Only)
I specialize in utilizing EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral and Person Centered theories to help individuals find the most effective ways to cope, find closure and move forward.
You have the ability to feel better! That is the core principle of my therapeutic approach. My job is to help you maximize your potential and build the skills to improve on your experience. It takes courage to explore your own story, and discussions will be genuine and humanistic. I want you to find hope, and feel free of the burden that life's struggles often bring. I speak both, Spanish and English. I believe the foundation of counseling is empathy and positive client regard, and will always work toward a positive outcome. Counseling is a safe space that is free of judgment, and it is the core of my approach with all clients
I specialize in utilizing EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral and Person Centered theories to help individuals find the most effective ways to cope, find closure and move forward.
You have the ability to feel better! That is the core principle of my therapeutic approach. My job is to help you maximize your potential and build the skills to improve on your experience. It takes courage to explore your own story, and discussions will be genuine and humanistic. I want you to find hope, and feel free of the burden that life's struggles often bring. I speak both, Spanish and English. I believe the foundation of counseling is empathy and positive client regard, and will always work toward a positive outcome. Counseling is a safe space that is free of judgment, and it is the core of my approach with all clients
(540) 584-8332 View (540) 584-8332
Photo of James Dayton Olsen, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
James Dayton Olsen
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24016
I am professionally trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and also provide more traditional talk-therapy.
I am a young therapist, and I am very passionate about my profession and the lives of my patients. I hail from Fredericksburg, VA, but am proud to call the Southwestern portion of the state my home. I have a diverse background, having worked in substance abuse, community clinics, and a private practice. I perform most forms of traditional talk therapy, though I am not very concerned with theories of counseling (they don't matter much anyways :) ). I strive to develop close, meaningful connections with my patients, and these relationships are the driving force in my work.
I am professionally trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and also provide more traditional talk-therapy.
I am a young therapist, and I am very passionate about my profession and the lives of my patients. I hail from Fredericksburg, VA, but am proud to call the Southwestern portion of the state my home. I have a diverse background, having worked in substance abuse, community clinics, and a private practice. I perform most forms of traditional talk therapy, though I am not very concerned with theories of counseling (they don't matter much anyways :) ). I strive to develop close, meaningful connections with my patients, and these relationships are the driving force in my work.
(540) 516-4730 View (540) 516-4730
Photo of Heidi Ann Taylor, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Heidi Ann Taylor
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015
Welcome. You have taken the first courageous step in seeking help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over thirty years of clinical experience. I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, family of origin issues and codependency. 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.
Welcome. You have taken the first courageous step in seeking help. I am a Licensed Professional Counselor with over thirty years of clinical experience. I work with adults and couples who are dealing with: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, family of origin issues and codependency. 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) 253-1479 View (540) 253-1479
Photo of Linnie Daniel, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Linnie Daniel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24015  (Online Only)
I am a certified EMDR therapist and also utilize other modalities including parts work and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Life throws us challenges that can feel like you're stuck in survival mode. You might feel disconnected from the world, having difficulty with relationships, or a sense of confusion about the future.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and also utilize other modalities including parts work and cognitive behavioral therapy.
Life throws us challenges that can feel like you're stuck in survival mode. You might feel disconnected from the world, having difficulty with relationships, or a sense of confusion about the future.
(757) 517-8364 View (757) 517-8364
Photo of Emily Newcomb, Pre-Licensed Professional in Roanoke, VA
Emily Newcomb
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24016
I am trained in EMDR, Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Solution- Focused and Person- Centered Therapy.
I love to work with children, adolescents and adults. I am passionate and enjoy working with perinatal individuals and anyone dealing with postpartum anxiety or depression. My hope is to help individuals discover their values in order to help them live a value driven life rather than one focused centrally on acheiving goals.
I am trained in EMDR, Cognitive- Behavioral Therapy, Solution- Focused and Person- Centered Therapy.
I love to work with children, adolescents and adults. I am passionate and enjoy working with perinatal individuals and anyone dealing with postpartum anxiety or depression. My hope is to help individuals discover their values in order to help them live a value driven life rather than one focused centrally on acheiving goals.
(540) 900-1494 View (540) 900-1494
Photo of Dr. Mary Ann S. Callen, Psychologist in Roanoke, VA
Dr. Mary Ann S. Callen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24014
I have specialized training and years of experience using evidence-based and integrative treatments that include Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Clinical Hypnosis .
It’s summertime “…and the livin’ is easy” or at least it’s supposed to be. If you are feeling tired, down and even a little lost or if you’re feeling anxious or on edge, it may be time to make a change and learn skills with the help of a licensed psychologist and evidence-based treatments. These are treatments that use the most effective, economic, and available therapeutic interventions and they are cultivated within a healthy therapeutic relationship that blends mutual respect, supportive candor and gentle humor to foster personal healing, health and growth. So, let’s work together and learn to make the livin’ easy again !
I have specialized training and years of experience using evidence-based and integrative treatments that include Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT) and Clinical Hypnosis .
It’s summertime “…and the livin’ is easy” or at least it’s supposed to be. If you are feeling tired, down and even a little lost or if you’re feeling anxious or on edge, it may be time to make a change and learn skills with the help of a licensed psychologist and evidence-based treatments. These are treatments that use the most effective, economic, and available therapeutic interventions and they are cultivated within a healthy therapeutic relationship that blends mutual respect, supportive candor and gentle humor to foster personal healing, health and growth. So, let’s work together and learn to make the livin’ easy again !
(540) 632-0847 View (540) 632-0847
Photo of Jan Nicholson, Psychologist in Roanoke, VA
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 Three Valley Wellness LLC, Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Three Valley Wellness LLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015
Our favorite go-to’s are a combination of EMDR Therapy, Ego State Therapy (parts work), and LENS Neurofeedback.
Immediate openings for both therapy and neurofeedback! We are a trauma-focused small group of therapists who are ready to do the deeper work in therapy to clean out what gets in your way of having an easier life. Our philosophy is to find the root cause of the problem and work on that instead of staying on the surface. We are ready to go deep. Are you feeling like something is wrong or holding you back, but you don’t know what it is? Are you aware of your past traumas and are ready to work on them? You might be surprised how much trauma is responsible for how we feel about ourselves and how we live our lives.
Our favorite go-to’s are a combination of EMDR Therapy, Ego State Therapy (parts work), and LENS Neurofeedback.
Immediate openings for both therapy and neurofeedback! We are a trauma-focused small group of therapists who are ready to do the deeper work in therapy to clean out what gets in your way of having an easier life. Our philosophy is to find the root cause of the problem and work on that instead of staying on the surface. We are ready to go deep. Are you feeling like something is wrong or holding you back, but you don’t know what it is? Are you aware of your past traumas and are ready to work on them? You might be surprised how much trauma is responsible for how we feel about ourselves and how we live our lives.
(540) 202-1436 View (540) 202-1436
Photo of Michele L Bachman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Michele L Bachman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24014
Waitlist for new clients
Most of us go through times that can be helped by conferring with an unbiased, supportive, listening ear. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and EMDR techniques that have a high level of scientific support. By balancing compassion and honest feedback, I help my clients change unhelpful patterns of behavior. I love to teach practical tools to help my clients face fears...to not only cope with life but to flourish.
Most of us go through times that can be helped by conferring with an unbiased, supportive, listening ear. I specialize in cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and EMDR techniques that have a high level of scientific support. By balancing compassion and honest feedback, I help my clients change unhelpful patterns of behavior. I love to teach practical tools to help my clients face fears...to not only cope with life but to flourish.
(281) 747-5692 View (281) 747-5692
Photo of Joanna Nichols, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Joanna Nichols
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24015  (Online Only)
As an experienced trauma therapist trained in EMDR and IFS, I believe that healing is possible and the capacity for healing is already within you.
Are you looking for therapy that will take you deeper into your inner experience? Do you find yourself thinking about painful past experiences, feel disconnected from others, or find you are holding harsh beliefs about yourself? I work with adults who may feel successful in many areas of life yet still find themselves feeling not quite fulfilled or complete. I use evidence-based practices that are designed to help you get to the core of the issues that are holding you back and allow for transformation and healing.
As an experienced trauma therapist trained in EMDR and IFS, I believe that healing is possible and the capacity for healing is already within you.
Are you looking for therapy that will take you deeper into your inner experience? Do you find yourself thinking about painful past experiences, feel disconnected from others, or find you are holding harsh beliefs about yourself? I work with adults who may feel successful in many areas of life yet still find themselves feeling not quite fulfilled or complete. I use evidence-based practices that are designed to help you get to the core of the issues that are holding you back and allow for transformation and healing.
(215) 709-3739 View (215) 709-3739
Photo of Season Childress, Licensed Professional Counselor in Roanoke, VA
Season Childress
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Roanoke, VA 24001
Taking new clients for neurofeedback only. If you are interested in pursuing EMDR in 2025, I am happy to put you on my waiting list. If you are wanting more immediate or long term therapy, I can refer you to another practitioner in my practice. Have you had a traumatic incident(s) and still experiencing the symptoms? Are loss of sleep, unexplainable emotions, low self esteem, poor concentration or panic keeping you from enjoying your life? You may be working with a therapist and feel that your brain will just not allow you to implement the strategies. Trauma wires the brain, neurofeedback and EMDR rewire it.
Taking new clients for neurofeedback only. If you are interested in pursuing EMDR in 2025, I am happy to put you on my waiting list. If you are wanting more immediate or long term therapy, I can refer you to another practitioner in my practice. Have you had a traumatic incident(s) and still experiencing the symptoms? Are loss of sleep, unexplainable emotions, low self esteem, poor concentration or panic keeping you from enjoying your life? You may be working with a therapist and feel that your brain will just not allow you to implement the strategies. Trauma wires the brain, neurofeedback and EMDR rewire it.
(540) 328-9526 View (540) 328-9526
Photo of Cole Armbrust, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Roanoke, VA
Cole Armbrust
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MAEd, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Roanoke, VA 24004
I am also trained in TF-CBT and EMDR and am happy to support individuals through those modalities.
I am casual and tattooed, and that tends to work for most people... even if it's vastly different from how people picture a typical 'therapist'. I feel very privileged to work with members of the LGBTQ+ community and believe I offer a unique perspective as a trans man (that also happens to be a therapist). I really enjoy providing support to folks while they explore components of their authentic identities. I am comfortable working with folks that identify with being poly and/or kinky (No shaming here!).
I am also trained in TF-CBT and EMDR and am happy to support individuals through those modalities.
I am casual and tattooed, and that tends to work for most people... even if it's vastly different from how people picture a typical 'therapist'. I feel very privileged to work with members of the LGBTQ+ community and believe I offer a unique perspective as a trans man (that also happens to be a therapist). I really enjoy providing support to folks while they explore components of their authentic identities. I am comfortable working with folks that identify with being poly and/or kinky (No shaming here!).
(828) 333-5004 View (828) 333-5004
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.