EMDR Therapists in Cypress, CA
![Photo of Sharareh Namjoo, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ea4f2b4a-b128-4a13-ac88-f475fb92e81b/1/320x400.png)
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.
![Photo of Helaine Harris, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/ded5129b-c9b0-45c2-a1a3-9a796898e249/1/320x400.jpeg)
Here is my therapeutic approach: By combining traditional therapy with somatic bodywork, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Emotional Freedom Technique and Energy Psychology methods, results are a deep dive into the client.
Hello, I'm Helaine Harris, License LMFT15327. I am a spiritually inclined therapist with over 35 years of experience, trained in many modalities, to add another dimension of healing. Clients call me "The Wound Detector," because of my intuitive ability of getting to their core issues & rapidly turning those challenges around. My main client focus is anxiety and depression, getting through past negative experiences, relationships, and life stress. I also work with couples, groups, and children. I am a certified business coach as well. I often work on hypnotherapy and somatic work with clients.
Here is my therapeutic approach: By combining traditional therapy with somatic bodywork, Hypnotherapy, EMDR, Emotional Freedom Technique and Energy Psychology methods, results are a deep dive into the client.
Hello, I'm Helaine Harris, License LMFT15327. I am a spiritually inclined therapist with over 35 years of experience, trained in many modalities, to add another dimension of healing. Clients call me "The Wound Detector," because of my intuitive ability of getting to their core issues & rapidly turning those challenges around. My main client focus is anxiety and depression, getting through past negative experiences, relationships, and life stress. I also work with couples, groups, and children. I am a certified business coach as well. I often work on hypnotherapy and somatic work with clients.
![Photo of Kelly Schooner, MFT, ADHD-CC, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2800d783-cd86-4c91-8a9a-4fdef6f87a64/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kelly Schooner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, ADHD-CC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cypress, CA 90630 (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, and I have found that a lot of people that have suffered from any kind of trauma generally suffer from anxiety.
Does your heart race? Do you get sweaty hands or a heavy feeling in your chest? Do you ever feel out of control? Do you second guess yourself or feel like others are out to get you? Do you ever wonder why you over re-act in certain situations? Do you have flash backs or night mares? If any of these situations sounds like you, you could be suffering from trauma related anxiety. Anxiety affects millions of people daily. There is help. I specialize in helping people with a variety of different types of anxiety and trauma. We can work together to alleviate your symptoms and work toward a more peaceful life.
I am trained in EMDR, and I have found that a lot of people that have suffered from any kind of trauma generally suffer from anxiety.
Does your heart race? Do you get sweaty hands or a heavy feeling in your chest? Do you ever feel out of control? Do you second guess yourself or feel like others are out to get you? Do you ever wonder why you over re-act in certain situations? Do you have flash backs or night mares? If any of these situations sounds like you, you could be suffering from trauma related anxiety. Anxiety affects millions of people daily. There is help. I specialize in helping people with a variety of different types of anxiety and trauma. We can work together to alleviate your symptoms and work toward a more peaceful life.
![Photo of Marcella Briceno, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a4d5dae-cd8e-42a9-b8f7-1fe2d8271024/1/320x400.png)
My focus as a therapist is to help others on their journey to self-improvement and symptom reduction. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief/loss, life transitions, parenting, and relationship challenges. I have a strong background in trauma related issues and can incorporate EMDR into treatment. The primary framework from which I operate is based on Attachment Theory. This framework helps to analyze the way we relate and connect to others, since our primary relationships play a vital role to the way we view the world.
My focus as a therapist is to help others on their journey to self-improvement and symptom reduction. I have extensive experience treating anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, grief/loss, life transitions, parenting, and relationship challenges. I have a strong background in trauma related issues and can incorporate EMDR into treatment. The primary framework from which I operate is based on Attachment Theory. This framework helps to analyze the way we relate and connect to others, since our primary relationships play a vital role to the way we view the world.
![Photo of Mary Jordan, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d0f7fce9-1a17-45f1-87e2-c64ff6afc334/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
![Photo of Hazzel Angulo, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/73f136af-57b8-4cf6-b93a-dc570a10e0a5/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR therapy, which is designed to reduce the emotional intensity attached to the disturbing memories through the use of eye movements or tapping, resulting in a reduction of symptomology.
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
I am trained in EMDR therapy, which is designed to reduce the emotional intensity attached to the disturbing memories through the use of eye movements or tapping, resulting in a reduction of symptomology.
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
![Photo of Hong Jeong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/72d0b3d0-71af-41d2-b3ec-29d20099ed14/3/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in trauma processing and am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
I specialize in trauma processing and am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
![Photo of Jennie Nystrom, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/efa6000d-42c8-49e0-8b21-9fcd0b36482a/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am also trained in EMDR, which is a proven treatment for trauma and PTSD.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
I am also trained in EMDR, which is a proven treatment for trauma and PTSD.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
![Photo of Nicole Logan, LPC, EMDR](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c2e92c9a-0cda-4a8e-beed-ea9609ebb637/3/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Logan
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Cypress, CA 90720
I utilize CBT, psychodynamic theory, EMDR, and narrative therapy to target feelings of dread, abandonment, isolation, anxiety, fear, hopelessness, and helplessness.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
I utilize CBT, psychodynamic theory, EMDR, and narrative therapy to target feelings of dread, abandonment, isolation, anxiety, fear, hopelessness, and helplessness.
I utilize a client centered approach in working with adolescents and adults who struggle with anxiety, depression, grief, relationship issues, and life transitions. In a safe, supportive, and non judgemental space we can explore the negative patterns in your life, work through any barriers, and move towards healing, growth, and change.
![Photo of Dr. Thuy Tran, PsyD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52eab0dc-f98f-45a2-ae97-836cdd054855/2/320x400.jpeg)
Are you having difficulties coping with stress, managing conflicts, and connecting to others? Personal conflicts can elicit emotions, thoughts, and reactions in ourselves that structure our sense of self and our relationships. I can help guide you to a deeper understanding of your feelings about your relationships and personal view of yourself. I exercise compassionate understanding to help you resolve the seeming paradoxes of conflicts within your life to help you achieve an increased sense of harmony and peace.
Are you having difficulties coping with stress, managing conflicts, and connecting to others? Personal conflicts can elicit emotions, thoughts, and reactions in ourselves that structure our sense of self and our relationships. I can help guide you to a deeper understanding of your feelings about your relationships and personal view of yourself. I exercise compassionate understanding to help you resolve the seeming paradoxes of conflicts within your life to help you achieve an increased sense of harmony and peace.
![Photo of Ryan Hill, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/9cabf0a7-f1da-4644-ba34-7fe3eb2dbde3/2/320x400.jpeg)
Ryan Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Cypress, CA 90630 (Online Only)
I am here to help you relieve stress, pain, and anxiety by guiding you toward a fulfilling relationship. Like many couples, you might struggle with communication or repetitive arguing. You want to experience joy in your relationship, instead of feeling distant from your partner. You want to improve your sex life and have fun. Couples therapy can help you rebuild a lost connection or strengthen your most important relationship. In my office, you can experience a safe space to practice new skills and explore deep relational intimacy. You and your partner can feel wonderful together. You and your partner can thrive.
I am here to help you relieve stress, pain, and anxiety by guiding you toward a fulfilling relationship. Like many couples, you might struggle with communication or repetitive arguing. You want to experience joy in your relationship, instead of feeling distant from your partner. You want to improve your sex life and have fun. Couples therapy can help you rebuild a lost connection or strengthen your most important relationship. In my office, you can experience a safe space to practice new skills and explore deep relational intimacy. You and your partner can feel wonderful together. You and your partner can thrive.
![Photo of Kathy Walker - Kathryn M Walker, LMFT, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/46e0c10e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Kathryn M Walker, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Cypress, CA 90630
Counseling offers an opportunity to explore areas of life that can bring you more personal satisfaction and confidence. I can help you sort through personal difficulties as well as the parts of your life that are going well. Recognizing the strengths you already possess is an important part of the process. Your strengths are nurtured to become the tools for change, as my aim is to add clarity to your life, improve levels of functioning, and ultimately benefit you and those around you. I seek to encourage the exploration of change and an improved quality of life.
Counseling offers an opportunity to explore areas of life that can bring you more personal satisfaction and confidence. I can help you sort through personal difficulties as well as the parts of your life that are going well. Recognizing the strengths you already possess is an important part of the process. Your strengths are nurtured to become the tools for change, as my aim is to add clarity to your life, improve levels of functioning, and ultimately benefit you and those around you. I seek to encourage the exploration of change and an improved quality of life.
![Photo of Mary M Read, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3c1fe5ae-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I specialize in the "big questions" that affect our whole lives -- who am I? What can I hope for? What is a good life? How do I get there from here? Whether the issue is identity, grief & loss, substance misuse, depression, anxiety, aging, surviving trauma, midlife adjustments or having more fulfilling relationships, I work with clients emphasizing their choice and responsiblity, reframing areas where they may feel stuck, ultimately accessing more freedom and empowerment. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, and see children as young as 10 years old. I'll also work with you to get insurance reimbursement.
I specialize in the "big questions" that affect our whole lives -- who am I? What can I hope for? What is a good life? How do I get there from here? Whether the issue is identity, grief & loss, substance misuse, depression, anxiety, aging, surviving trauma, midlife adjustments or having more fulfilling relationships, I work with clients emphasizing their choice and responsiblity, reframing areas where they may feel stuck, ultimately accessing more freedom and empowerment. I work with individuals, couples, families, and groups, and see children as young as 10 years old. I'll also work with you to get insurance reimbursement.
![Photo of Jessica Fernandez Sando, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6a17455a-0e3f-415e-939f-6f7eb16fd00b/2/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Jessica Sando, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach toward working with my clients stems from the belief that every individual possesses the ability the make changes to their lives if they choose if given a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment to do so. I focus my practice in the areas of individual and couples therapy, with a focus on depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders.
My name is Jessica Sando, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach toward working with my clients stems from the belief that every individual possesses the ability the make changes to their lives if they choose if given a safe, supportive, and encouraging environment to do so. I focus my practice in the areas of individual and couples therapy, with a focus on depression, anxiety, and stress-related disorders.
![Photo of James Husen, CP, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/8218234e-5d8f-4134-9ba8-770c298bf6c6/1/320x400.jpeg)
Hi, my name is James "Jim" Husen. I am a Psychologist. My approach to therapy is to first do no harm, then help the client with his/her symptoms and figure out the root or source of those problems and help the client with that too- give a person a fish, the family eats for a day, teach a person to fish, the family eats for a lifetime and beyond when the children are taught to fish as well.
Hi, my name is James "Jim" Husen. I am a Psychologist. My approach to therapy is to first do no harm, then help the client with his/her symptoms and figure out the root or source of those problems and help the client with that too- give a person a fish, the family eats for a day, teach a person to fish, the family eats for a lifetime and beyond when the children are taught to fish as well.
![Photo of James Thomas, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/876266db-dba1-47aa-9656-7ae400effb78/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am James Thomas, LCSW. I strive to meet people where they are exploring and support individuals to get in touch with what is truly important to them while cultivating loving acceptance of themselves. Being able to increase insight, understanding of how the past impacts the present, although does not have to dictate one's reality, developing a clear, nonjudgmental view of the current situation allows people to work towards becoming a person who lives a life which is congruent with their values.
I am James Thomas, LCSW. I strive to meet people where they are exploring and support individuals to get in touch with what is truly important to them while cultivating loving acceptance of themselves. Being able to increase insight, understanding of how the past impacts the present, although does not have to dictate one's reality, developing a clear, nonjudgmental view of the current situation allows people to work towards becoming a person who lives a life which is congruent with their values.
![Photo of Umeko Allen, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4cbcdd39-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Umeko Allen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Cypress, CA 90630 (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
As your therapist, I am committed to cultivating a healing environment to compassionately support you in being able to align with your true values and learn to be in authentic relationship with yourself, your loved ones and within your community. We’ll take a healing journey together towards a path of a more meaningful and fulfilling life. A life where you will be able to set boundaries and know how to have your needs met. A life that will feel lighter and you’d feel more at ease with others and with yourself. A life in which it’s comfortable to truly be who you are.
As your therapist, I am committed to cultivating a healing environment to compassionately support you in being able to align with your true values and learn to be in authentic relationship with yourself, your loved ones and within your community. We’ll take a healing journey together towards a path of a more meaningful and fulfilling life. A life where you will be able to set boundaries and know how to have your needs met. A life that will feel lighter and you’d feel more at ease with others and with yourself. A life in which it’s comfortable to truly be who you are.
More Therapists Nearby
![Photo of Leslee Miller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e7e07544-97ef-4861-800b-31e706643ea2/1/320x400.png)
Leslee Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Alamitos, CA 90720 (Online Only)
We specialize in a variety of areas including EMDR (for resolving trauma, both recent and long-standing), sex addiction, weight loss surgery, mood disorders and couples therapy.
SCHEDULE A TELEMENTALHEALTH APPOINTMENT ONLINE NOW at https://schedulewithLesleeMiller.as.me. Sugarhouse Counseling Center serves clients in both Utah and California. We have therapists who are compassionate and sensitive. Evening appointments are available. Whether you are experiencing an immediate crisis, wanting to deal with ongoing difficulties, or would like increased insight, we are here to assist you. We work with individuals, couples and families. We accept many insurance plans. We work with people of all faiths. In addition, we have therapists who have special insight regarding specific needs/ concerns of LDS clients.
We specialize in a variety of areas including EMDR (for resolving trauma, both recent and long-standing), sex addiction, weight loss surgery, mood disorders and couples therapy.
SCHEDULE A TELEMENTALHEALTH APPOINTMENT ONLINE NOW at https://schedulewithLesleeMiller.as.me. Sugarhouse Counseling Center serves clients in both Utah and California. We have therapists who are compassionate and sensitive. Evening appointments are available. Whether you are experiencing an immediate crisis, wanting to deal with ongoing difficulties, or would like increased insight, we are here to assist you. We work with individuals, couples and families. We accept many insurance plans. We work with people of all faiths. In addition, we have therapists who have special insight regarding specific needs/ concerns of LDS clients.
![Photo of Molly Vasa Bertolucci, LCSW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e5aa81ee-8842-4c15-aadb-6b87007d897f/2/320x400.jpeg)
Molly Vasa Bertolucci
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Alamitos, CA 90720
I am trained in EMDR for reproductive trauma (like pregnancy loss, birth trauma, NICU stays, and breastfeeding difficulties).
Hi, I'm Molly. I'm a maternal mental health therapist and the founder of Poppy Therapy, where I help new moms and moms who want to find meaning and courage in all of the big transitions, emotions, and decisions that come with motherhood. If you had a traumatic birth, are recovering from a NICU stay, have a child with food allergies, or finding yourself facing depression and anxiety, this is probably NOT what you expected. I’m here to help you find confidence, calm, and connection in motherhood so you can BLOOM. I am in-network with Aetna insurance.
I am trained in EMDR for reproductive trauma (like pregnancy loss, birth trauma, NICU stays, and breastfeeding difficulties).
Hi, I'm Molly. I'm a maternal mental health therapist and the founder of Poppy Therapy, where I help new moms and moms who want to find meaning and courage in all of the big transitions, emotions, and decisions that come with motherhood. If you had a traumatic birth, are recovering from a NICU stay, have a child with food allergies, or finding yourself facing depression and anxiety, this is probably NOT what you expected. I’m here to help you find confidence, calm, and connection in motherhood so you can BLOOM. I am in-network with Aetna insurance.
![Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/40b330cd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Garden Grove, CA 92845
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Frustrated with your: relationship? sex life? child? I am trained in 2nd level, Gottman Method, a specialty that started with couples. John Gottman, the author of, "7 Principles of Marriage," is known for predicting divorce with 90% accuracy, has been influential over my career. The Gottman Method has transformed my practice to focusing on couples, parenting, and children. If you're looking for guidance through a challenging situation with your children, partner or anyone else, I look forward to working with you to accomplish your goals.
See more therapy options for Cypress
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EMDR Therapists
Who is EMDR for?
EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.
Why do people need EMDR?
People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.
What problems does EMDR treat?
First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.
What happens in EMDR therapy?
First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.