EMDR Therapists in Arcadia, CA

Photo of Catherine L. Gruman, LMFT, EMDR-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine L. Gruman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
Waitlist for new clients
I love helping clients heal from trauma through the EMDR process - helping their brain to get unstuck to heal and move forward in their lives with a positive sense of themselves.
I am a firm believer that I cannot do my clients’ work for them. It is a collaborative effort, in the best interest of the client, and with the client who is ready for change, and willing to do the work. Therapy is a commitment, a risk, and takes courage. Finding connections to our emotions and behaviors keeping us from living the life we want, gives us hope and new perspectives for positive change.
I love helping clients heal from trauma through the EMDR process - helping their brain to get unstuck to heal and move forward in their lives with a positive sense of themselves.
I am a firm believer that I cannot do my clients’ work for them. It is a collaborative effort, in the best interest of the client, and with the client who is ready for change, and willing to do the work. Therapy is a commitment, a risk, and takes courage. Finding connections to our emotions and behaviors keeping us from living the life we want, gives us hope and new perspectives for positive change.
(626) 609-4797 View (626) 609-4797
Photo of Karen Earnest, PhD, Psychologist
Karen Earnest
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
Certified Therapist in IFS | EMDR | EFT | DBT | and I additionally integrate CBT, ACT, AEDP, and Compassion-Focused Therapy.
I work from an interpersonal frame of reference and use a variety of techniques including cognitive behavioral approaches in my work with adult individuals and with couples. I work with clients in identifying and changing patterns in their lives that no longer work for them in an effort to help them achieve greater happiness, peace, and balance in their professional and personal lives. I believe in people's ability to change and take charge of their own lives. I work interactively and supportively with clients to bring out their strengths and activate the healthiest parts of themselves to accomplish their goals.
Certified Therapist in IFS | EMDR | EFT | DBT | and I additionally integrate CBT, ACT, AEDP, and Compassion-Focused Therapy.
I work from an interpersonal frame of reference and use a variety of techniques including cognitive behavioral approaches in my work with adult individuals and with couples. I work with clients in identifying and changing patterns in their lives that no longer work for them in an effort to help them achieve greater happiness, peace, and balance in their professional and personal lives. I believe in people's ability to change and take charge of their own lives. I work interactively and supportively with clients to bring out their strengths and activate the healthiest parts of themselves to accomplish their goals.
(626) 385-7958 View (626) 385-7958
Photo of Robyn Broadus, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Robyn Broadus
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91007
Hello there! I am a EMDR and TRM-trained therapist and I greet you with gentleness and a smile. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed or crippled (or annoyed) by your anxiety, self-criticalness, people-pleasing or perfectionistic behaviors? Perhaps you've experienced trauma and now want/need to make a change? Whatever you are noticing right now, you are welcomed here and I would love to partner with you on this journey toward healing. My deep hope is that you can experience healing from distress, build your self-care and boundary muscles, and engage life with freedom, peace, empowerment, and authenticity.
Hello there! I am a EMDR and TRM-trained therapist and I greet you with gentleness and a smile. Perhaps you feel overwhelmed or crippled (or annoyed) by your anxiety, self-criticalness, people-pleasing or perfectionistic behaviors? Perhaps you've experienced trauma and now want/need to make a change? Whatever you are noticing right now, you are welcomed here and I would love to partner with you on this journey toward healing. My deep hope is that you can experience healing from distress, build your self-care and boundary muscles, and engage life with freedom, peace, empowerment, and authenticity.
(626) 499-5781 View (626) 499-5781
Photo of Ani Martikyan- Aspire Counseling Group Inc., Marriage & Family Therapist
Ani Martikyan- Aspire Counseling Group Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
We will incorporate different therapies, including EMDR, CBT and DBT (when appropriate), to help resolve earlier traumas and overcome present-day fears.
Choosing change is hard. Even scary. Unless you are perfectly happy with life as it is right now, you deserve to feel better and live better. We will work together to take action and make change possible! Whether it’s a specific problem or general displeasure, we will explore root causes, process pain, and establish new patterns.
We will incorporate different therapies, including EMDR, CBT and DBT (when appropriate), to help resolve earlier traumas and overcome present-day fears.
Choosing change is hard. Even scary. Unless you are perfectly happy with life as it is right now, you deserve to feel better and live better. We will work together to take action and make change possible! Whether it’s a specific problem or general displeasure, we will explore root causes, process pain, and establish new patterns.
(626) 779-9348 View (626) 779-9348
Photo of Jasmine Vasquez - Selah Counseling Center, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Selah Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
Our therapists work from evidence-based therapy models (CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, etc.
We are passionate about empowering individuals, couples, and families improve their quality of life in the face of adversity. In this healing journey, therapy is a collaborative process where you discover your inner strengths that aids in overcoming life's challenges and promote personal growth. It is about helping you make connections, resolve issues at its roots, and heal in a safe nonjudgmental environment. Our expertise includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, trauma, domestic violence, parenting, women's issues, men's issues, spirituality, and more.
Our therapists work from evidence-based therapy models (CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, etc.
We are passionate about empowering individuals, couples, and families improve their quality of life in the face of adversity. In this healing journey, therapy is a collaborative process where you discover your inner strengths that aids in overcoming life's challenges and promote personal growth. It is about helping you make connections, resolve issues at its roots, and heal in a safe nonjudgmental environment. Our expertise includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, trauma, domestic violence, parenting, women's issues, men's issues, spirituality, and more.
(323) 617-4711 View (323) 617-4711
Photo of Timothy Malone, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Timothy Malone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91007  (Online Only)
My Name is Tim Malone. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Luis Obispo, California, and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with teens, First Responders, the LGBTQIA2S+ population, and Teens and specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Mindfulness, Somatic, and an eclectic mix of other therapies to help my clients work through limiting beliefs and negative experiences so that they can feel better and live fuller lives.
My Name is Tim Malone. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Luis Obispo, California, and working with clients statewide via Telehealth. I work with teens, First Responders, the LGBTQIA2S+ population, and Teens and specialize in PTSD, anxiety, depression, and life transitions. I use EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Mindfulness, Somatic, and an eclectic mix of other therapies to help my clients work through limiting beliefs and negative experiences so that they can feel better and live fuller lives.
(626) 323-8856 View (626) 323-8856
Photo of Nelly Vazquez - Nelly Vazquez, Psychologist, EMDR Certified, PsyD, EMDR, Psychologist
Nelly Vazquez, Psychologist, EMDR Certified
Psychologist, PsyD, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
I am also a certified EMDR therapist.
Hi, I'm Nelly, and I'm here for you! Do you feel like you could use some extra support to deal with life’s challenges? Are you looking to decrease your stress or feel happier? Need some motivation? I can help you move past these difficult times and feel more content and fulfilled.
I am also a certified EMDR therapist.
Hi, I'm Nelly, and I'm here for you! Do you feel like you could use some extra support to deal with life’s challenges? Are you looking to decrease your stress or feel happier? Need some motivation? I can help you move past these difficult times and feel more content and fulfilled.
(626) 593-8220 View (626) 593-8220
Photo of Gwendolyn Richard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gwendolyn Richard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
I offer a variety of therapy modalities that include Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I offer a trauma-informed approach where you don't have to process your trauma through talk therapy. Instead, we can collaborate in a very unique way by using an evidenced-based approach that you will like and trust. I also specialize in assisting with anxiety-based symptoms and depression-based symptoms. I assist to reduce fear/phobias, anxiety/worry, panic attacks, and anger. With panic attacks, I psycho-educate my clients about why they occur and how to reduce their presentations. I also work with anger and I psycho-educate my clients on why their anger presents and how to decrease maladaptive behaviors.
I offer a variety of therapy modalities that include Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT).
I offer a trauma-informed approach where you don't have to process your trauma through talk therapy. Instead, we can collaborate in a very unique way by using an evidenced-based approach that you will like and trust. I also specialize in assisting with anxiety-based symptoms and depression-based symptoms. I assist to reduce fear/phobias, anxiety/worry, panic attacks, and anger. With panic attacks, I psycho-educate my clients about why they occur and how to reduce their presentations. I also work with anger and I psycho-educate my clients on why their anger presents and how to decrease maladaptive behaviors.
(951) 470-3590 View (951) 470-3590
Photo of Tobi Nishikawa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tobi Nishikawa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
Waitlist for new clients
I am an EMDR-certified therapist who is also extensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Aloha! I consider it an immense privilege to come alongside my clients to support them towards achieving their self-determined goals. Specializing in trauma, I am a holistic practitioner who incorporates multi-faceted approaches in a safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic environment. I have extensive experience working with marginalized populations and therefore, am able to consider the complexities of ethnicity, culture, societal systems and gender identity in my therapeutic work.
I am an EMDR-certified therapist who is also extensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Aloha! I consider it an immense privilege to come alongside my clients to support them towards achieving their self-determined goals. Specializing in trauma, I am a holistic practitioner who incorporates multi-faceted approaches in a safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic environment. I have extensive experience working with marginalized populations and therefore, am able to consider the complexities of ethnicity, culture, societal systems and gender identity in my therapeutic work.
(323) 274-1689 View (323) 274-1689
Photo of Brenda Curtis, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brenda Curtis
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
Brenda Curtis, LMFT and EMDR certified. I approach the individual as a whole and the client knows themselves best. I am compassionate, easy to talk to, and have a great sense of humor. My practice consists of individuals from all walks of life, ethnicities, and cultures. I often focus on first responders/law enforcement/RNs and those who have had traumas in their lives. I work with a wide variety of individuals those with PTSD/trauma-related injuries, law enforcement/Frist Responders, doctors, nurses, addiction (12-step recovery), anxiety, and depression.
Brenda Curtis, LMFT and EMDR certified. I approach the individual as a whole and the client knows themselves best. I am compassionate, easy to talk to, and have a great sense of humor. My practice consists of individuals from all walks of life, ethnicities, and cultures. I often focus on first responders/law enforcement/RNs and those who have had traumas in their lives. I work with a wide variety of individuals those with PTSD/trauma-related injuries, law enforcement/Frist Responders, doctors, nurses, addiction (12-step recovery), anxiety, and depression.
(341) 895-5493 View (341) 895-5493
Photo of Jennifer Singler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Singler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
My specialty areas include couples therapy (PACT, EFT), attachment work, parenting, trauma (EMDR, TFCBT), and existential issues.
Are you seeking to learn healthier ways to be in relationship than what you learned from your family? Do you need to make sense of your story & heal from trauma? Are you tired of stress driving you, compromising your best self? I enjoy partnering with adult children of emotionally immature parents, along with anyone seeking to develop more satisfying and meaningful relationships with others and/or with yourself. I have worked extensively with parents, children, & couples to create more secure relationships. By exploring your experiences in relationships, we can help you create new relationship possibilities, too.
My specialty areas include couples therapy (PACT, EFT), attachment work, parenting, trauma (EMDR, TFCBT), and existential issues.
Are you seeking to learn healthier ways to be in relationship than what you learned from your family? Do you need to make sense of your story & heal from trauma? Are you tired of stress driving you, compromising your best self? I enjoy partnering with adult children of emotionally immature parents, along with anyone seeking to develop more satisfying and meaningful relationships with others and/or with yourself. I have worked extensively with parents, children, & couples to create more secure relationships. By exploring your experiences in relationships, we can help you create new relationship possibilities, too.
(626) 329-4368 View (626) 329-4368
Photo of Brooke Bender, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brooke Bender
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91007
Over the years I have tried many different treatment modalities, but I have found that EMDR therapy is the most effective and will get you feeling better faster than talk therapy alone.
Are you ready to heal from past wounds? Want to feel better about yourself with friends or in dating? Feel more confident at work? At school? In your parenting? You've hit a point in your life where you are tired of feeling the same way- stressed, anxious, disappointed- and are ready to focus on healing you. If you are ready to heal, I’d be honored to talk with you and see if we can work together. I'm invested in helping you feel more confident, happy and at peace.
Over the years I have tried many different treatment modalities, but I have found that EMDR therapy is the most effective and will get you feeling better faster than talk therapy alone.
Are you ready to heal from past wounds? Want to feel better about yourself with friends or in dating? Feel more confident at work? At school? In your parenting? You've hit a point in your life where you are tired of feeling the same way- stressed, anxious, disappointed- and are ready to focus on healing you. If you are ready to heal, I’d be honored to talk with you and see if we can work together. I'm invested in helping you feel more confident, happy and at peace.
(626) 669-3065 View (626) 669-3065
Photo of Mary B Malooly, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mary B Malooly
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
I am certified in EMDR, a therapy that is especially effective in treating all types of trauma.
Have you ever doubted yourself as a parent? Wife? Employee? Do you feel nothing you do is "good enough?" The challenges for women in today's "you CAN have it all" society leave many of us feeling inadequate and overwhelmed. If you are feeling insecure or fearful about your relationships, you don't have to go through it alone. Let's talk about how I can help you find the light at the end of the tunnel.
I am certified in EMDR, a therapy that is especially effective in treating all types of trauma.
Have you ever doubted yourself as a parent? Wife? Employee? Do you feel nothing you do is "good enough?" The challenges for women in today's "you CAN have it all" society leave many of us feeling inadequate and overwhelmed. If you are feeling insecure or fearful about your relationships, you don't have to go through it alone. Let's talk about how I can help you find the light at the end of the tunnel.
(626) 593-5665 View (626) 593-5665
Photo of Kendra Valdez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kendra Valdez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
I use several evidenced based practices, such as EMDR, TF-CBT, PCIT, the Nurtured Heart Approach, Gottman methods, etc.
Therapy is a delicate art and a science. Finding the right therapist is important. The connection by an understanding, intuitive professional, someone with wisdom and effectiveness, who also respects the time and the cost of your investment is valuable. I use an attachment-focused orientation, and tools from EMDR, Ego State Theory, CBT, 12-step recovery model, and other modalities. I have enjoyed a rich 25-year career as a trauma informed specialist. I have supervised and directed programs in public and non-profit sectors. Adoption is my specialty, as well as work with teens, young adults and families.
I use several evidenced based practices, such as EMDR, TF-CBT, PCIT, the Nurtured Heart Approach, Gottman methods, etc.
Therapy is a delicate art and a science. Finding the right therapist is important. The connection by an understanding, intuitive professional, someone with wisdom and effectiveness, who also respects the time and the cost of your investment is valuable. I use an attachment-focused orientation, and tools from EMDR, Ego State Theory, CBT, 12-step recovery model, and other modalities. I have enjoyed a rich 25-year career as a trauma informed specialist. I have supervised and directed programs in public and non-profit sectors. Adoption is my specialty, as well as work with teens, young adults and families.
(818) 322-4082 View (818) 322-4082
Photo of Aleta Klein, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Aleta Klein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Arcadia, CA 91006
Today you are one step closer to where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. I provide insight oriented, caring and compassionate client focused therapy. I specialize in Christian Spiritual Development, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, EMDR, Grief, Relationship Issues, and Parenting Skills As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While I can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
Today you are one step closer to where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. I provide insight oriented, caring and compassionate client focused therapy. I specialize in Christian Spiritual Development, Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, EMDR, Grief, Relationship Issues, and Parenting Skills As a solution-focused therapist, my goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While I can't change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life.
(626) 414-5269 View (626) 414-5269
Photo of Kai Ku, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kai Ku
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
Welcome to your transformative journey towards healing and self-discovery. I'm KAI KU, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, bringing over a decade of expertise in behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, EMDR, and a comprehensive approach that integrates psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, and CBT.
Welcome to your transformative journey towards healing and self-discovery. I'm KAI KU, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, bringing over a decade of expertise in behavioral therapy, trauma-informed care, EMDR, and a comprehensive approach that integrates psychodynamic therapy, mindfulness, and CBT.
(626) 779-9894 View (626) 779-9894
Photo of Pei Chai - Relationships For Better, MSMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Relationships For Better
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
I am also trained in EMDR therapy which focuses on trauma recovery.
Isn't it true that our relationships are what life is all about? When we feel isolated in our relationship with ourselves and loved ones, we are more likely to experiencing disconnection, dysfunction and emotional pain. Though we often grow through pain, feeling stuck can feel hopeless. My goal is to walk with you through the healing process. I'm here to support you in restoring life in your relationship with yourself and others. Using a holistic approach to therapy, we'll address underlying feelings and needs to restore a vital connection with yourself and others as we walk together through the healing process.
I am also trained in EMDR therapy which focuses on trauma recovery.
Isn't it true that our relationships are what life is all about? When we feel isolated in our relationship with ourselves and loved ones, we are more likely to experiencing disconnection, dysfunction and emotional pain. Though we often grow through pain, feeling stuck can feel hopeless. My goal is to walk with you through the healing process. I'm here to support you in restoring life in your relationship with yourself and others. Using a holistic approach to therapy, we'll address underlying feelings and needs to restore a vital connection with yourself and others as we walk together through the healing process.
(626) 869-2713 View (626) 869-2713
Photo of Sharon Stines, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon Stines
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91007
My name is Sharon Stines and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified EMDR therapist. I specialize in trauma and abuse recovery. My primary modalities are attachment-based EMDR, Ego-State/Inner Family Systems/Inner Child and Schema Therapy. I am solution focused. I am also an addictions specialist. I offer my experience, skill set, and relationship to help clients meet their goals of abuse/trauma recovery, healing and freedom. Because I am a Christian, I also offer faith-based therapy for those interested in it. And, as a recovering alcoholic, I also offer addiction recovery counseling as well.
My name is Sharon Stines and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified EMDR therapist. I specialize in trauma and abuse recovery. My primary modalities are attachment-based EMDR, Ego-State/Inner Family Systems/Inner Child and Schema Therapy. I am solution focused. I am also an addictions specialist. I offer my experience, skill set, and relationship to help clients meet their goals of abuse/trauma recovery, healing and freedom. Because I am a Christian, I also offer faith-based therapy for those interested in it. And, as a recovering alcoholic, I also offer addiction recovery counseling as well.
(562) 784-8374 View (562) 784-8374
Photo of Zeana Bey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zeana Bey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91006
Zeana specializes in trauma recovery using evidence-based techniques like EMDR, CBT, DBT, and solutions-oriented therapies.
Welcome! Zeana Bey is a compassionate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who brings a calm holistic approach to healing. Zeana works from the perspective that each person has the ability to heal their own life, and believes her role is to listen, provide support and guidance, and help you find and develop your inner strengths and coping skills that may be hidden or undeveloped because of difficult events or situations you’ve experienced. Zeana's approach is person-centered, culturally sensitive, and non-judgmental. She strives to create a safe space for clients where they can feel truly seen and heard wherever they are at.
Zeana specializes in trauma recovery using evidence-based techniques like EMDR, CBT, DBT, and solutions-oriented therapies.
Welcome! Zeana Bey is a compassionate Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who brings a calm holistic approach to healing. Zeana works from the perspective that each person has the ability to heal their own life, and believes her role is to listen, provide support and guidance, and help you find and develop your inner strengths and coping skills that may be hidden or undeveloped because of difficult events or situations you’ve experienced. Zeana's approach is person-centered, culturally sensitive, and non-judgmental. She strives to create a safe space for clients where they can feel truly seen and heard wherever they are at.
(818) 873-7990 View (818) 873-7990
Photo of Linda Hynes, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Hynes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Arcadia, CA 91066
In recent years I have become EMDR trained which produces excellent results for individuals struggling with trauma and anxiety.
The focus of my work in Marriage and Family Therapy has been to help individuals and families gain greater control over their lives, acquire freedom from areas of trauma and maintain healthy relationships with God and loved ones.
In recent years I have become EMDR trained which produces excellent results for individuals struggling with trauma and anxiety.
The focus of my work in Marriage and Family Therapy has been to help individuals and families gain greater control over their lives, acquire freedom from areas of trauma and maintain healthy relationships with God and loved ones.
(626) 499-6282 View (626) 499-6282
1
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.