EMDR Therapists in Carson, CA

Photo of Dr. Ta-Taneisha R Thames - Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC, PsyD, Psychological Associate
Free Spirit Coaching & Psychological Services PLC
Psychological Associate, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Carson, CA 90745  (Online Only)
There's nothing we can't do via telehealth- CBT, DBT, EMDR, Play Therapy, etc.
I am very direct and will help make the changes you need to grow and heal. I work with individuals, couples and families with children ages 5 and up. I specialize in treating problems related to marriage and parenting; social, emotional, behavioral, intellectual and academic issues, self-esteem and confidence; life transitions, grief and loss; abuse, trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I’m passionate about helping children and their parents work together as a family, as a team. A team approach is the most effective approach, which is why I also collaborate with your child’s teachers and other providers as needed.
There's nothing we can't do via telehealth- CBT, DBT, EMDR, Play Therapy, etc.
I am very direct and will help make the changes you need to grow and heal. I work with individuals, couples and families with children ages 5 and up. I specialize in treating problems related to marriage and parenting; social, emotional, behavioral, intellectual and academic issues, self-esteem and confidence; life transitions, grief and loss; abuse, trauma, PTSD, depression and anxiety. I’m passionate about helping children and their parents work together as a family, as a team. A team approach is the most effective approach, which is why I also collaborate with your child’s teachers and other providers as needed.
(213) 816-7175 View (213) 816-7175
Photo of Anne-Karin Nelson, PT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anne-Karin Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PT, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carson, CA 90745
I am an EMDR Clinician and have worked with clients with, for example, phobias (fear of public speaking), chronic pain, single episodic traumas (motor vehicle accident), traumas from childhood abuse.
Is stress, anxiety, depression, or overwhelm an issue? Sometimes life brings changes that are difficult to cope with; loss of a loved one, loss of health, loss of employment, trauma, divorce. I provide a safe and accepting environment in which we can process these changes together, finding your strengths and empowering you to meet these challenges.
I am an EMDR Clinician and have worked with clients with, for example, phobias (fear of public speaking), chronic pain, single episodic traumas (motor vehicle accident), traumas from childhood abuse.
Is stress, anxiety, depression, or overwhelm an issue? Sometimes life brings changes that are difficult to cope with; loss of a loved one, loss of health, loss of employment, trauma, divorce. I provide a safe and accepting environment in which we can process these changes together, finding your strengths and empowering you to meet these challenges.
(310) 220-0977 View (310) 220-0977
Photo of Briana Yedalian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Briana Yedalian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carson, CA 90745
Hi there, my name is Briana Yedalian, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 137449). It is essential that clients get personalized suggestions based on around your needs. This is a collaborative relationship made up of honesty, authenticity and open-mindedness. As a modern clinician, my approach is eclectic. I use a variety of tools and orientations that work for you, not the other way around.
Hi there, my name is Briana Yedalian, I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 137449). It is essential that clients get personalized suggestions based on around your needs. This is a collaborative relationship made up of honesty, authenticity and open-mindedness. As a modern clinician, my approach is eclectic. I use a variety of tools and orientations that work for you, not the other way around.
(562) 539-4371 View (562) 539-4371
Photo of Chrystal Baisley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chrystal Baisley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Carson, CA 90745
Chrystal Baisley, LMFT I collaborate with clients to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to navigate life's challenges and deepen a person's understanding of themselves and the world around them. I work with client's experiencing trauma, adjustment, mood disturbances, relationship/family issues, sexual assault, Domestic Violence, Depression, anxiety. My communication style is heavily focused on actively listening, validating, and providing exploration and clarification. I seek to understand the client with a warm, supportive tone but also challenging the client to promote growth and accountability.
Chrystal Baisley, LMFT I collaborate with clients to provide a safe, non-judgmental space to navigate life's challenges and deepen a person's understanding of themselves and the world around them. I work with client's experiencing trauma, adjustment, mood disturbances, relationship/family issues, sexual assault, Domestic Violence, Depression, anxiety. My communication style is heavily focused on actively listening, validating, and providing exploration and clarification. I seek to understand the client with a warm, supportive tone but also challenging the client to promote growth and accountability.
(559) 205-7663 View (559) 205-7663
Photo of Shoshana Levine, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Shoshana Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Carson, CA 90745
My name is Shoshana Levine. I am licensed in California as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 27 years of professional work experience. Using an approach to therapy that is both holistic and traditional, it is my goal to help you heal the wounds of your past in order to be able to live a fuller and happier life in the present. I use an eclectic approach to therapy from various theories. I believe that the first step in the process of healing is to help you find the origins of your wounds.
My name is Shoshana Levine. I am licensed in California as a Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 27 years of professional work experience. Using an approach to therapy that is both holistic and traditional, it is my goal to help you heal the wounds of your past in order to be able to live a fuller and happier life in the present. I use an eclectic approach to therapy from various theories. I believe that the first step in the process of healing is to help you find the origins of your wounds.
(559) 379-5878 View (559) 379-5878
Photo of Joan Romeo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joan Romeo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Carson, CA 90745
Hi there, I'm Joan, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been working in mental health for nearly 20 years. I spent 15 years working with the most seriously mentally ill patients and in-crisis services. After I retired 2 years ago, I choose to do teletherapy in order to reach those populations that have been underserved. I take a holistic approach to therapy which includes nutrition, mindfulness, play, and self-care. My usual approach is to start with mindfulness and building coping skills and integrate CBT into the process.
Hi there, I'm Joan, a licensed marriage and family therapist. I have been working in mental health for nearly 20 years. I spent 15 years working with the most seriously mentally ill patients and in-crisis services. After I retired 2 years ago, I choose to do teletherapy in order to reach those populations that have been underserved. I take a holistic approach to therapy which includes nutrition, mindfulness, play, and self-care. My usual approach is to start with mindfulness and building coping skills and integrate CBT into the process.
(661) 228-8586 View (661) 228-8586

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Evelin Lemus, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Evelin Lemus
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Torrance, CA 90502
I focus on inner child work and attachment style healing in conjunction with EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Approaches.
Women go through many transitions in a lifetime. Whether in early adulthood of self-identity, sexual orientation, starting and graduating college, and transitioning into a career. In adulthood where work-life balance begins, we question the nature of our relationships, we contemplate on marriage and we find patterns that we would like to change. For other stages in life such as midlife plateaus, thoughts of retirement, and making peace to past experiences. This is for you, to talk, cry and figure it out in a compassionate space.
I focus on inner child work and attachment style healing in conjunction with EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral Approaches.
Women go through many transitions in a lifetime. Whether in early adulthood of self-identity, sexual orientation, starting and graduating college, and transitioning into a career. In adulthood where work-life balance begins, we question the nature of our relationships, we contemplate on marriage and we find patterns that we would like to change. For other stages in life such as midlife plateaus, thoughts of retirement, and making peace to past experiences. This is for you, to talk, cry and figure it out in a compassionate space.
(562) 352-2207 View (562) 352-2207
Photo of Alex Merlo, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Merlo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90813  (Online Only)
I am also EMDR trained and can provide virtual EMDR sessions.
If this is your first time in therapy, I know that it can be uncomfortable putting yourself out there and I just wanted to say, you came to the right place. It is a huge step to be able to advocate for yourself and acknowledge the fact that you may need some support in areas of your life. If it is not your first time, welcome back! I am looking forward to working with you.
I am also EMDR trained and can provide virtual EMDR sessions.
If this is your first time in therapy, I know that it can be uncomfortable putting yourself out there and I just wanted to say, you came to the right place. It is a huge step to be able to advocate for yourself and acknowledge the fact that you may need some support in areas of your life. If it is not your first time, welcome back! I am looking forward to working with you.
(310) 362-9923 View (310) 362-9923
Photo of Fairy Shaw, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Fairy Shaw
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90745  (Online Only)
My approach is a multimodal, and I use well-researched treatment methods such as Existential, Humanistic, Family Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
My name is Fairy Shaw, I am a clinical Associate Marriage & Family Therapist who is passionate about helping you find solutions that work for you, accomplish your goals, and discover the true potential to attain your personal growth. I recognize the need to identify and treat the cooccurring disorders, such as anxiety, depression, codependency, trauma, grieving, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
My approach is a multimodal, and I use well-researched treatment methods such as Existential, Humanistic, Family Focused Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
My name is Fairy Shaw, I am a clinical Associate Marriage & Family Therapist who is passionate about helping you find solutions that work for you, accomplish your goals, and discover the true potential to attain your personal growth. I recognize the need to identify and treat the cooccurring disorders, such as anxiety, depression, codependency, trauma, grieving, life transitions, and low self-esteem.
(714) 942-4122 View (714) 942-4122
Photo of Bristol Lopez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Bristol Lopez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90745  (Online Only)
I am trained in and primarily utilize Somatic and Attachment-Focused EMDR to treat my clients' presenting symptoms.
You are feeling overwhelmed, confused, and exhausted. You feel disconnected from yourself and have lost sight of your inherent value and purpose. You likely define yourself as a high-achieving, creative type, yet you are feeling stuck as though there is something keeping you from reaching your potential. You struggle to shake off the past and fully embrace yourself in the present moment. There are parts of yourself you are proud to show the world and parts that are heavily guarded and criticized. You are torn between validating your internal strength while also acknowledging your desire for relief and healing.
I am trained in and primarily utilize Somatic and Attachment-Focused EMDR to treat my clients' presenting symptoms.
You are feeling overwhelmed, confused, and exhausted. You feel disconnected from yourself and have lost sight of your inherent value and purpose. You likely define yourself as a high-achieving, creative type, yet you are feeling stuck as though there is something keeping you from reaching your potential. You struggle to shake off the past and fully embrace yourself in the present moment. There are parts of yourself you are proud to show the world and parts that are heavily guarded and criticized. You are torn between validating your internal strength while also acknowledging your desire for relief and healing.
(714) 477-7359 View (714) 477-7359
Photo of Keren L Clark, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Keren L Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90745  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Keren has worked extensively with individuals, couples and groups for the duration of her career assisting people to shift from a sense of powerlessness to deep personal empowerment. She has been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and is an EMDRIA certified practitioner of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Keren received her Masters degree from Antioch University in 1988 and was licensed in the state of California in 1990. She has always lived on the edge of her personal and professional growth, integrating it all into every aspect of her life.
Keren has worked extensively with individuals, couples and groups for the duration of her career assisting people to shift from a sense of powerlessness to deep personal empowerment. She has been intensively trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and is an EMDRIA certified practitioner of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Keren received her Masters degree from Antioch University in 1988 and was licensed in the state of California in 1990. She has always lived on the edge of her personal and professional growth, integrating it all into every aspect of her life.
(949) 427-2992 View (949) 427-2992
Photo of Justin Juárez, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justin Juárez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90745
This was my motivation to be trained in EMDR, a tool to help reprocess traumatic memories and help clients experience more inner peace and resiliency.
Finding a therapist in a big city can be a daunting task for such an important decision and journey you are on. I cultivate a space for you to feel seen and heard while facilitating change through a therapeutic relationship of compassion and culturally affirming care. I'm committed to working with LGBTQ+ individuals/relationships and working with teens in this ever more complex world that induces overwhelming feelings. I also provide support for parents with teens in navigating these issues. I work with adults who experience a variety of expressions such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma to name a few.
This was my motivation to be trained in EMDR, a tool to help reprocess traumatic memories and help clients experience more inner peace and resiliency.
Finding a therapist in a big city can be a daunting task for such an important decision and journey you are on. I cultivate a space for you to feel seen and heard while facilitating change through a therapeutic relationship of compassion and culturally affirming care. I'm committed to working with LGBTQ+ individuals/relationships and working with teens in this ever more complex world that induces overwhelming feelings. I also provide support for parents with teens in navigating these issues. I work with adults who experience a variety of expressions such as anxiety, depression, life transitions, and trauma to name a few.
(818) 797-9226 View (818) 797-9226
Photo of Erick Santos, LCSW, EMDR, MA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90745
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and relational and will use trauma focused CBT, SFT and EMDR therapy to help.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
I specialize in trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, addiction, and relational and will use trauma focused CBT, SFT and EMDR therapy to help.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences that leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(714) 735-0357 View (714) 735-0357
Photo of Sarah Ryan, LCSW, EMDR-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarah Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90745  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified EMDR therapist that enjoys working with adults across the lifespan. I have experience working with diverse adult populations experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, relational difficulties, and family of origin issues. I specialize in trauma and particularly enjoy working with individuals whose past experiences are impacting their ability to connect with others, navigate life transitions, or regulate emotions. Additionally, I have received advanced training in Perinatal Mental Health through PSI and enjoy working with this population.
I am a licensed clinical social worker and certified EMDR therapist that enjoys working with adults across the lifespan. I have experience working with diverse adult populations experiencing mood disorders, anxiety, low self-esteem, grief, trauma, relational difficulties, and family of origin issues. I specialize in trauma and particularly enjoy working with individuals whose past experiences are impacting their ability to connect with others, navigate life transitions, or regulate emotions. Additionally, I have received advanced training in Perinatal Mental Health through PSI and enjoy working with this population.
(949) 519-4248 View (949) 519-4248
Photo of Ericka Franklin, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ericka Franklin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90745
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with clients living with a range of experiences which often include healing Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), self-discovery and acceptance within oppressive systems, finding wholeness after narcissistic abuse, and strengthening the heart after the loss of a loved one. To assist, I use an eclectic approach that can include theories from EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and the Internal Family System. When artfully combined, these principles help to awaken change and ripple out improvement in the internal and external realities.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with clients living with a range of experiences which often include healing Complex Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD), self-discovery and acceptance within oppressive systems, finding wholeness after narcissistic abuse, and strengthening the heart after the loss of a loved one. To assist, I use an eclectic approach that can include theories from EMDR Therapy, Psychodynamic, Gestalt, and the Internal Family System. When artfully combined, these principles help to awaken change and ripple out improvement in the internal and external realities.
(310) 340-7530 View (310) 340-7530
Photo of Brenda Cabrera - Hablo Español
Brenda Cabrera - Hablo Español
Associate Clinical Social Worker
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90502
I use various therapy techniques such as CBT, DBT, compassion-based therapy, and EMDR to help you improve your mental health.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other difficult life events? Do you feel hopeless, unseen, and disconnected from yourself? Have you noticed that things that used to be easy for you have become more challenging? In these times, it's common for people to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure about how to manage their relationships and lives. It's easy to put our own needs aside and forget to take care of ourselves, but this can lead to long-term issues for our mental & physical health. I believe that it shouldn't be so hard to live a better life & I am here to help you make positive changes.
I use various therapy techniques such as CBT, DBT, compassion-based therapy, and EMDR to help you improve your mental health.
Are you struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, or other difficult life events? Do you feel hopeless, unseen, and disconnected from yourself? Have you noticed that things that used to be easy for you have become more challenging? In these times, it's common for people to feel anxious, overwhelmed, and unsure about how to manage their relationships and lives. It's easy to put our own needs aside and forget to take care of ourselves, but this can lead to long-term issues for our mental & physical health. I believe that it shouldn't be so hard to live a better life & I am here to help you make positive changes.
(562) 784-4275 View (562) 784-4275
Photo of Robert Connerley, LCP, Psychologist
Robert Connerley
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90810
Hello, I'm Dr. Robert Connerley, a Licensed Psychologist specializing in anxiety, stress, and trauma therapy. No matter where you are in California, I offer telehealth sessions to make therapy accessible and convenient for you. We are all unique. I tailor my approach to meet each person’s specific needs and goals. If you're struggling with the effects of past experiences or repetitive life patterns, I often integrate Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help you move forward and put the past behind you.
Hello, I'm Dr. Robert Connerley, a Licensed Psychologist specializing in anxiety, stress, and trauma therapy. No matter where you are in California, I offer telehealth sessions to make therapy accessible and convenient for you. We are all unique. I tailor my approach to meet each person’s specific needs and goals. If you're struggling with the effects of past experiences or repetitive life patterns, I often integrate Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) to help you move forward and put the past behind you.
(323) 784-0916 View (323) 784-0916
Photo of Creston Davis - Creston Davis Trauma, Depression, Anxiety, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Creston Davis Trauma, Depression, Anxiety
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Torrance, CA 90502
I am a experienced trauma-informed therapist certified in EMDR and experience with counseling survivors of trauma and military related trauma.
If you are having challenges with trauma, anxiety, and depression, or keeping your mood stable, I can assist you with finding the right balance and solutions. Left untreated those feeling of hopelessness, sadness, loss of interest in activities can have a negative impact on your life. I specialize in trauma and PTSD. I work with people who have trauma, some have flashbacks, deep fear of trust from childhood trauma.
I am a experienced trauma-informed therapist certified in EMDR and experience with counseling survivors of trauma and military related trauma.
If you are having challenges with trauma, anxiety, and depression, or keeping your mood stable, I can assist you with finding the right balance and solutions. Left untreated those feeling of hopelessness, sadness, loss of interest in activities can have a negative impact on your life. I specialize in trauma and PTSD. I work with people who have trauma, some have flashbacks, deep fear of trust from childhood trauma.
(310) 861-7718 View (310) 861-7718
Photo of Anna Elizabeth Morley, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Elizabeth Morley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90745
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing(EMDR); which is extremely effective in helping individuals re-process their trauma.
My goal is to assist teens and their families establish healthy communication and connection. I offer warmth and empathy, coupled with education, experience, and evidence-based tools. For the past ten years I have help teens improve their self-concept, establish healthy boundaries, improve mood, and work through traumas. Also, my training in family systems theory allows me to understand the important role each family member plays in the well-being of their child. Therefore, I work with parents on providing the support and structure needed to help their teen strive.
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing(EMDR); which is extremely effective in helping individuals re-process their trauma.
My goal is to assist teens and their families establish healthy communication and connection. I offer warmth and empathy, coupled with education, experience, and evidence-based tools. For the past ten years I have help teens improve their self-concept, establish healthy boundaries, improve mood, and work through traumas. Also, my training in family systems theory allows me to understand the important role each family member plays in the well-being of their child. Therefore, I work with parents on providing the support and structure needed to help their teen strive.
(949) 558-3289 View (949) 558-3289
Photo of Sharareh Namjoo, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharareh Namjoo
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90745
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and also DBT.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Doctor of Psychology. It has been my greatest pleasure to assist my clients in overcoming obstacles and achieving happiness and fulfillment in every phase of their lives. I find it heart-warming to mentor and guide individuals and families through their differences, difficulties, and conflicts. With 23 years of experience working with diverse clients, I have developed a wide range of tools and treatment styles to help them overcome every challenging stage in their lives.
I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and also DBT.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and a Doctor of Psychology. It has been my greatest pleasure to assist my clients in overcoming obstacles and achieving happiness and fulfillment in every phase of their lives. I find it heart-warming to mentor and guide individuals and families through their differences, difficulties, and conflicts. With 23 years of experience working with diverse clients, I have developed a wide range of tools and treatment styles to help them overcome every challenging stage in their lives.
(714) 577-2365 View (714) 577-2365
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.