EMDR Therapists in Arkansas

Photo of Tara Prestridge, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Tara Prestridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, NCC, LPC-S, TAC-S, EMDR
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Farmington, AR 72730
Waitlist for new clients
After my Master's, I completed 5 years of doctoral-level coursework and I am trained in EMDR.
I create a respectful, safe, caring, brave, and judgement-free space for my clients through the use of warmth, kindness, empathy, and genuineness. I appreciate and welcome raw, unfiltered honesty from my clients because our problem areas are best addressed with authenticity. There are many places in this world where we feel like we must behave a certain way in order to fit in. I don't want you to feel that way with me. I want you to feel completely comfortable revealing your true self, unmasked, just as you are. I'm here to offer secular, compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming, and LGBTQIA2+ affirming therapy to fellow humans.
After my Master's, I completed 5 years of doctoral-level coursework and I am trained in EMDR.
I create a respectful, safe, caring, brave, and judgement-free space for my clients through the use of warmth, kindness, empathy, and genuineness. I appreciate and welcome raw, unfiltered honesty from my clients because our problem areas are best addressed with authenticity. There are many places in this world where we feel like we must behave a certain way in order to fit in. I don't want you to feel that way with me. I want you to feel completely comfortable revealing your true self, unmasked, just as you are. I'm here to offer secular, compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming, and LGBTQIA2+ affirming therapy to fellow humans.
(479) 888-8206 View (479) 888-8206
Photo of Hollie Lynch, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Hollie Lynch
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Rogers, AR 72758
I work with children (10+), adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population providing individual, play, & relational therapy along with parent education with biological, foster, and adopted children. I am trained in EMDR therapy; a therapy designed specifically for anxiety and trauma in both children and adults. I have a therapy dog, Dietrich, a standard poodle. His focus is helping to calm anxiety when he senses it by being present and tranquil.
I work with children (10+), adolescents, adults, and the geriatric population providing individual, play, & relational therapy along with parent education with biological, foster, and adopted children. I am trained in EMDR therapy; a therapy designed specifically for anxiety and trauma in both children and adults. I have a therapy dog, Dietrich, a standard poodle. His focus is helping to calm anxiety when he senses it by being present and tranquil.
(479) 777-0986 View (479) 777-0986
Photo of Traci Barrios, Counselor in Arkansas
Traci Barrios
Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Are you looking for more out of this life? Anxiety hits all of us differently. ADHD, OCD, addiction, and grief are just a few sources of anxiety that can get in the way. I specialize in helping detangle you from your anxiety, and help people walk away with skills to experience calm and peace. My clients often set goals and achieve them with the right support. I offer EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing) for clients who continue to have PTSD-like symptoms after traumatic event(s). It is an honor to walk alongside those who have been stuck, and help free them from what has kept them captive.
Are you looking for more out of this life? Anxiety hits all of us differently. ADHD, OCD, addiction, and grief are just a few sources of anxiety that can get in the way. I specialize in helping detangle you from your anxiety, and help people walk away with skills to experience calm and peace. My clients often set goals and achieve them with the right support. I offer EMDR (eye-movement desensitization and reprocessing) for clients who continue to have PTSD-like symptoms after traumatic event(s). It is an honor to walk alongside those who have been stuck, and help free them from what has kept them captive.
(479) 385-6958 View (479) 385-6958
Photo of Gale Henrard, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Gale Henrard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hot Springs, AR 71901  (Online Only)
The techniques I use are grounded in neuroscience- like EMDR, Coherence Therapy, and internal Family Systems.
Rationally, you know you want to make a change. But emotionally you're stuck. You just can't get yourself to move forward and you may not know why. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief, you sense you need more than insight alone to achieve lasting change.
The techniques I use are grounded in neuroscience- like EMDR, Coherence Therapy, and internal Family Systems.
Rationally, you know you want to make a change. But emotionally you're stuck. You just can't get yourself to move forward and you may not know why. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, or grief, you sense you need more than insight alone to achieve lasting change.
(833) 394-6587 View (833) 394-6587
Photo of Amy Muse, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Amy Muse
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72204
I am trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction(MBSR), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing(EMDR), Attachment Based Family Therapy(ABFT), and Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk(AMSR).
Nobody is immune to life problems and the toll they can take on our mental health. With more than 10 years experience, I provide professional and confidential mental health counseling services to diverse persons. I do not discriminate based on ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation or personal identification and believe that through connection and compassion we can resolve any problem together. Our problems and past experiences do not define us and our future is not yet written. Help is available and you are not alone. Let's work towards building your life the way it was always meant to be: authentic, fulfilling and empowered.
I am trained in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction(MBSR), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing(EMDR), Attachment Based Family Therapy(ABFT), and Assessing and Managing Suicide Risk(AMSR).
Nobody is immune to life problems and the toll they can take on our mental health. With more than 10 years experience, I provide professional and confidential mental health counseling services to diverse persons. I do not discriminate based on ethnicity, religion, disability, sexual orientation or personal identification and believe that through connection and compassion we can resolve any problem together. Our problems and past experiences do not define us and our future is not yet written. Help is available and you are not alone. Let's work towards building your life the way it was always meant to be: authentic, fulfilling and empowered.
(501) 566-4465 View (501) 566-4465
Photo of Walter I Klopner, Counselor in Arkansas
Walter I Klopner
Counselor, MA, LAC, EMDR, ASAT, SSP
Verified Verified
Searcy, AR 72143
I primarily work with adolescent males (i.e., ages 13-26), but I also have experience working with young adults who are single or married. I also have experience providing pre-marital through Prepare/Enrich for couples that are considering marriage. My work with clients addresses a range of issues, including family conflict, addiction, depression, anxiety, and other issues. I am trained to provide EMDR and Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) to my clients in addition to bringing my training as a Certified Trauma Therapist (CTT-Intern) and a Sex Addiction Therapist (ASAT)to bear on these issues.
I primarily work with adolescent males (i.e., ages 13-26), but I also have experience working with young adults who are single or married. I also have experience providing pre-marital through Prepare/Enrich for couples that are considering marriage. My work with clients addresses a range of issues, including family conflict, addiction, depression, anxiety, and other issues. I am trained to provide EMDR and Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP) to my clients in addition to bringing my training as a Certified Trauma Therapist (CTT-Intern) and a Sex Addiction Therapist (ASAT)to bear on these issues.
(501) 594-4796 View (501) 594-4796
Photo of Holly Skinner, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Holly Skinner
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LMHC, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
Additionally, I am EMDR trained.
I realize that coming to therapy takes courage. I will meet you where you are and work with you on your journey toward healing and thriving. Therapy is a process of self-exploration and can certainly be difficult at times, but can yield life changing results. I believe that everyone is worthy of feeling whole and that often, there are both internal and external roadblocks in the way of knowing our true selves and being at peace with ourself and others. I strive to help client’s find and be their authentic selves while navigating through the many difficult phases life can bring.
Additionally, I am EMDR trained.
I realize that coming to therapy takes courage. I will meet you where you are and work with you on your journey toward healing and thriving. Therapy is a process of self-exploration and can certainly be difficult at times, but can yield life changing results. I believe that everyone is worthy of feeling whole and that often, there are both internal and external roadblocks in the way of knowing our true selves and being at peace with ourself and others. I strive to help client’s find and be their authentic selves while navigating through the many difficult phases life can bring.
(479) 333-2131 View (479) 333-2131
Photo of Laura Carpenter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Laura Carpenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child Parent Psychotherapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Welcome! My name is Laura Carpenter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Fayetteville, Arkansas. My specialties include working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. My goal for our time together is to provide a warm, safe environment for you to find relief and healing.
I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Child Parent Psychotherapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Welcome! My name is Laura Carpenter and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) in Fayetteville, Arkansas. My specialties include working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families. My goal for our time together is to provide a warm, safe environment for you to find relief and healing.
(479) 269-4373 View (479) 269-4373
Photo of Teresa Hardy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Teresa Hardy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I am trained in EMDR-II and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Teresa is a Licensed Professional Counselor who provides faith-based professional counseling. Teresa is passionate about helping children, adolescents, women, and families. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, life transitions and ready to heal, grow, and reach your full potential in life?
I am trained in EMDR-II and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Teresa is a Licensed Professional Counselor who provides faith-based professional counseling. Teresa is passionate about helping children, adolescents, women, and families. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, stress, life transitions and ready to heal, grow, and reach your full potential in life?
(501) 697-4033 View (501) 697-4033
Photo of Cory D Dobbins, Counselor in Arkansas
Cory D Dobbins
Counselor, MS MFT, LPC, LAMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034  (Online Only)
I implement EMDR, CBT, and Solution Focused therapeutic modalities to effectively assist clients in finding direction and resolving their problems.
As a marriage and family therapist, my hope is to help each couple and family to overcome the unique struggles that they face. I want to help everyone recognize and appreciate the valuable qualities that each person contributes to the relationship. Also, for them to understand how their differences can be the building block in becoming a foundation of comfort, strength, and peace. I share these same aspirations for my individual clients as well, so they can reach their personal, relational, and life ambitions through achieving mental health and wellbeing.
I implement EMDR, CBT, and Solution Focused therapeutic modalities to effectively assist clients in finding direction and resolving their problems.
As a marriage and family therapist, my hope is to help each couple and family to overcome the unique struggles that they face. I want to help everyone recognize and appreciate the valuable qualities that each person contributes to the relationship. Also, for them to understand how their differences can be the building block in becoming a foundation of comfort, strength, and peace. I share these same aspirations for my individual clients as well, so they can reach their personal, relational, and life ambitions through achieving mental health and wellbeing.
(501) 382-7647 View (501) 382-7647
Photo of Brittni Huckabay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Brittni Huckabay
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, RPT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72703
I have specialty training in Play Therapy, Child-Parent Psychotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I specialize in working with children and adolescents and I tailor my approach to meet their unique needs. I can assist people of all ages in managing stressors, anxiety, depression and overcoming trauma, however my true passion is providing play therapy to children. I recognize the significance of building a strong connection with my clients and aim to provide them with a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore their emotions and experiences.
I have specialty training in Play Therapy, Child-Parent Psychotherapy and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
I specialize in working with children and adolescents and I tailor my approach to meet their unique needs. I can assist people of all ages in managing stressors, anxiety, depression and overcoming trauma, however my true passion is providing play therapy to children. I recognize the significance of building a strong connection with my clients and aim to provide them with a safe and nonjudgmental space to explore their emotions and experiences.
(479) 239-8718 View (479) 239-8718
Photo of Lauren Hannah, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Lauren Hannah
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jonesboro, AR 72401
I am trained in KAP, EMDR, MBSR and Motivational Interviewing.
Have you ever felt like no matter what you do you just cannot get to a place of peace? Often, the hardest part of managing mental health is learning to live after you survived whatever caused pain in the first place. It's easier to expect the worst than hope for the best when you've been through trauma. I'm here to help my people identify self-limiting beliefs and unwanted behavior. We find the root of the problem, and begin to re-process negative belief systems then replace those with healthier views. It may seem impossible, but with the right approach I believe everyone can find joy.
I am trained in KAP, EMDR, MBSR and Motivational Interviewing.
Have you ever felt like no matter what you do you just cannot get to a place of peace? Often, the hardest part of managing mental health is learning to live after you survived whatever caused pain in the first place. It's easier to expect the worst than hope for the best when you've been through trauma. I'm here to help my people identify self-limiting beliefs and unwanted behavior. We find the root of the problem, and begin to re-process negative belief systems then replace those with healthier views. It may seem impossible, but with the right approach I believe everyone can find joy.
(870) 359-6287 View (870) 359-6287
Photo of Shelby Freeman, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Shelby Freeman
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
As a trained EMDR practitioner and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, one of my specialities is working at the intersection of trauma and LGBTQ+ identities.
Taking in-person & telehealth clients - I’m happy you have made it here and can’t wait to see how therapy might improve your life. I enjoy working with adults, teenagers, and couples. While I work with the full spectrum of mental health difficulties, I have specific experience working with trauma, abuse, anxiety, attachment/relationship dynamics, identity development, and adjustment to life changes. Often people who are seeking therapy are hoping to find a sense of control in their life and assurance that they are not alone in their experiences. No matter what brings you to seek therapy, I am here for your journey.
As a trained EMDR practitioner and a member of the LGBTQ+ community, one of my specialities is working at the intersection of trauma and LGBTQ+ identities.
Taking in-person & telehealth clients - I’m happy you have made it here and can’t wait to see how therapy might improve your life. I enjoy working with adults, teenagers, and couples. While I work with the full spectrum of mental health difficulties, I have specific experience working with trauma, abuse, anxiety, attachment/relationship dynamics, identity development, and adjustment to life changes. Often people who are seeking therapy are hoping to find a sense of control in their life and assurance that they are not alone in their experiences. No matter what brings you to seek therapy, I am here for your journey.
(479) 326-7803 View (479) 326-7803
Photo of Nancy S. Kay, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Nancy S. Kay
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CPC, CDWF, RN
Verified Verified
Fayetteville, AR 72703
Waitlist for new clients
Areas of Specialty: Marital/Relationship Counseling, Grief, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Mood Management, Blended Families, Gender Identity, Trauma, EMDR and Physical/Sexual Abuse.
I consider it a privilege to work with and walk beside each of my clients. I utilize Cognitive Behavior and Solution Focused Therapy to provide quality care in the shortest time frame possible. I use psychological and personality assessments and practical tools to help individuals and couples live a more fulfilled, intentional, and aware life. I believe the way to live your best fulfilled life is to understand your "why" and increase your self-awareness. My experience as a therapist for over 25 years and being an RN allows me to consider each of my client's emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
Areas of Specialty: Marital/Relationship Counseling, Grief, Anxiety, OCD, Depression, Mood Management, Blended Families, Gender Identity, Trauma, EMDR and Physical/Sexual Abuse.
I consider it a privilege to work with and walk beside each of my clients. I utilize Cognitive Behavior and Solution Focused Therapy to provide quality care in the shortest time frame possible. I use psychological and personality assessments and practical tools to help individuals and couples live a more fulfilled, intentional, and aware life. I believe the way to live your best fulfilled life is to understand your "why" and increase your self-awareness. My experience as a therapist for over 25 years and being an RN allows me to consider each of my client's emotional, physical, and spiritual needs.
(479) 239-9629 View (479) 239-9629
Photo of Heather Vinti, Counselor in Arkansas
Heather Vinti
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72703
​I am also passionate about helping clients heal and move beyond the impact of traumatic events in their lives through EMDR.
Hello and welcome! I'm Heather Vinti, licensed therapist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and PhD in Public Health. In addition to my years of research in sexual health, I have received advanced training specifically in Sexual Health and Sex Therapy, as well as Gottman Method Couples Therapy. All of this put together allows me to take a systemic view and connection-based approach to working with clients. I provide a non-judgmental, accepting, validating space for clients to be themselves and explore the ways in which they want to grow and heal.
​I am also passionate about helping clients heal and move beyond the impact of traumatic events in their lives through EMDR.
Hello and welcome! I'm Heather Vinti, licensed therapist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and PhD in Public Health. In addition to my years of research in sexual health, I have received advanced training specifically in Sexual Health and Sex Therapy, as well as Gottman Method Couples Therapy. All of this put together allows me to take a systemic view and connection-based approach to working with clients. I provide a non-judgmental, accepting, validating space for clients to be themselves and explore the ways in which they want to grow and heal.
(479) 323-3983 View (479) 323-3983
Photo of Nick Clemmons, Counselor in Arkansas
Nick Clemmons
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
I am trained in the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to address trauma and other issues and use a wide range of other effective techniques to address different needs.
I am eager to help adults, children, and families create positive change in their lives and relationships and want to assist people in growing into who they want to be through overcoming anxiety, depression, and trauma. Lives and relationships can be truly enhanced through facing these obstacles, and no one should have to face them alone. I have experience with adults with intellectual disabilities, very young children and their families, and adults and children across a range of populations. I have worked in outpatient, day treatment, and acute care settings and understand the broad scope of mental health treatment needs.
I am trained in the use of EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) to address trauma and other issues and use a wide range of other effective techniques to address different needs.
I am eager to help adults, children, and families create positive change in their lives and relationships and want to assist people in growing into who they want to be through overcoming anxiety, depression, and trauma. Lives and relationships can be truly enhanced through facing these obstacles, and no one should have to face them alone. I have experience with adults with intellectual disabilities, very young children and their families, and adults and children across a range of populations. I have worked in outpatient, day treatment, and acute care settings and understand the broad scope of mental health treatment needs.
(501) 267-9293 View (501) 267-9293
Photo of Katie Fitzwilson, Counselor in Arkansas
Katie Fitzwilson
Counselor, MS, LAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fayetteville, AR 72701
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma, Eating Disorder treatment with a Health at Every Size focus, as well as trauma-informed, LGBTQ-inclusive, and multiculturally-competent care.
As a therapist and person, I function from the core values of: collaboration, consent & curiosity. I have experience and enjoy working with clients from a wide variety of ethnicities, gender identities, body sizes, sexual orientations & religious backgrounds. I believe that shame often keeps us from addressing the deepest parts of ourselves and I work to ensure that each person I interact with feels safe enough to communicate openly & honestly, in order to move toward lasting, core healing.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) for trauma, Eating Disorder treatment with a Health at Every Size focus, as well as trauma-informed, LGBTQ-inclusive, and multiculturally-competent care.
As a therapist and person, I function from the core values of: collaboration, consent & curiosity. I have experience and enjoy working with clients from a wide variety of ethnicities, gender identities, body sizes, sexual orientations & religious backgrounds. I believe that shame often keeps us from addressing the deepest parts of ourselves and I work to ensure that each person I interact with feels safe enough to communicate openly & honestly, in order to move toward lasting, core healing.
(479) 383-2878 View (479) 383-2878
Photo of Melissa Harrison, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Melissa Harrison
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Conway, AR 72034
I am trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I am so glad that you are taking the important first step in reaching out for the help that you deserve! My name is Melissa Harrison, and I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker with over 5 years of experience providing therapy to children, teens, and adults in Central Arkansas. I work with clients experiencing a number of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and many others. I am especially passionate about working with clients to heal trauma, find purpose, and adjust to life’s stressors and changes.
I am trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy.
I am so glad that you are taking the important first step in reaching out for the help that you deserve! My name is Melissa Harrison, and I am a Licensed Certified Social Worker with over 5 years of experience providing therapy to children, teens, and adults in Central Arkansas. I work with clients experiencing a number of concerns, such as anxiety, depression, PTSD, and many others. I am especially passionate about working with clients to heal trauma, find purpose, and adjust to life’s stressors and changes.
(501) 300-2618 View (501) 300-2618
Photo of Tracey Wren, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Arkansas
Tracey Wren
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bentonville, AR 72712
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR with a specific emphasis on its application to trauma, anxiety, and grief.
I’m glad you are looking for someone to talk to! Maybe you are experiencing major life changes, struggling with depression or anxiety, dealing with trauma or relationship wounds, or just feeling stuck or in “auto-pilot” mode. Whatever is bringing you to therapy, I want to reassure you that I am ready to sit with you, listen with my whole heart, and help you work towards the goals you have (and you decide those). Together we will work to forge a path of more peace, connection, and fulfillment with yourself and in your life. I believe we all need a space to process life and I am honored to get to be a part of that healing process.
I am trained in EMDR with a specific emphasis on its application to trauma, anxiety, and grief.
I’m glad you are looking for someone to talk to! Maybe you are experiencing major life changes, struggling with depression or anxiety, dealing with trauma or relationship wounds, or just feeling stuck or in “auto-pilot” mode. Whatever is bringing you to therapy, I want to reassure you that I am ready to sit with you, listen with my whole heart, and help you work towards the goals you have (and you decide those). Together we will work to forge a path of more peace, connection, and fulfillment with yourself and in your life. I believe we all need a space to process life and I am honored to get to be a part of that healing process.
(479) 777-2833 View (479) 777-2833
Photo of Sharon Cummins, Licensed Professional Counselor in Arkansas
Sharon Cummins
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Little Rock, AR 72201
I work well with older teens, women and couples. I am experienced with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and bipolar. I am trained in EMDR and TFCBT for treatment of trauma, and currently am training in the specialty of Perinatal Mood Disorders.
I work well with older teens, women and couples. I am experienced with mood disorders such as anxiety, depression and bipolar. I am trained in EMDR and TFCBT for treatment of trauma, and currently am training in the specialty of Perinatal Mood Disorders.
(501) 298-1031 View (501) 298-1031
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.