EMDR Therapists in Hayward, CA

Photo of Martina Friedrich, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Martina Friedrich
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hayward, CA 94541  (Online Only)
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I find this type of trauma therapy to be helpful in treating depression, anxiety, and past painful experiences that have resulted in negative thoughts and beliefs about ourselves. My goal is to help you look at yourself and your pain differently, in a way that will create hope for you and help you to reach your goals and your "best self."
I specialize in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). I find this type of trauma therapy to be helpful in treating depression, anxiety, and past painful experiences that have resulted in negative thoughts and beliefs about ourselves. My goal is to help you look at yourself and your pain differently, in a way that will create hope for you and help you to reach your goals and your "best self."
(415) 225-6290 View (415) 225-6290
Photo of Ana Luz Sigala Quezada, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ana Luz Sigala Quezada
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541
I've been trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Solution Focused Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and overall take a person-centered approach based on my client's goals.
Hello, I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Marriage and Family Therapist. I am licensed in California and Utah. I have a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Mount Saint Marys University in Los Angeles, CA. I take a compassionate and proactive therapeutic approach to collaborate with my client on creating a treatment plan focused on enhancing and improving their life. For the past six years, I've provided mental health services in community centers, schools, and telehealth therapy with adults, families, and children.
I've been trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution-Focused, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Solution Focused Therapy, Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT), and overall take a person-centered approach based on my client's goals.
Hello, I am a bilingual (English/Spanish) Marriage and Family Therapist. I am licensed in California and Utah. I have a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology from Mount Saint Marys University in Los Angeles, CA. I take a compassionate and proactive therapeutic approach to collaborate with my client on creating a treatment plan focused on enhancing and improving their life. For the past six years, I've provided mental health services in community centers, schools, and telehealth therapy with adults, families, and children.
(510) 880-3692 View (510) 880-3692
Photo of Romina Schnelle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Romina Schnelle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94544
The approach I use for trauma treatment typically is Movement desensitization and re-processing (EMDR).
My name is Romina Schnelle, and I am a California-licensed marriage and family therapist with over 8 years of experience in the field of mental health. I approach therapy in a collaborative way and believe each client is the expert of their own life. I have experience treating a variety of disorders, such as ADHD, OCD, nightmares, depression, anxiety, and panic, and specialize in treating PTSD. I typically provide individual online therapy to adults 18+. I am comfortable treating a variety of disorders, but my specialization is in treating trauma.
The approach I use for trauma treatment typically is Movement desensitization and re-processing (EMDR).
My name is Romina Schnelle, and I am a California-licensed marriage and family therapist with over 8 years of experience in the field of mental health. I approach therapy in a collaborative way and believe each client is the expert of their own life. I have experience treating a variety of disorders, such as ADHD, OCD, nightmares, depression, anxiety, and panic, and specialize in treating PTSD. I typically provide individual online therapy to adults 18+. I am comfortable treating a variety of disorders, but my specialization is in treating trauma.
(341) 888-6994 View (341) 888-6994
Photo of Linda Laffey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Laffey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541
Hi! I am Linda K. Laffey, LMFT37134. My goal as a therapist is to connect with you in a way that results in you feeling heard and understood. I want to get why you are seeking therapy at this time and to work collaboratively with you on coming up with a treatment plan that will help you achieve your therapeutic goals as quickly as possible. My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, EMDR, eating disorders, relationship issues, and Somatic Experiencing. I look forward to working with you!
Hi! I am Linda K. Laffey, LMFT37134. My goal as a therapist is to connect with you in a way that results in you feeling heard and understood. I want to get why you are seeking therapy at this time and to work collaboratively with you on coming up with a treatment plan that will help you achieve your therapeutic goals as quickly as possible. My areas of specialty include depression, anxiety, trauma, PTSD, EMDR, eating disorders, relationship issues, and Somatic Experiencing. I look forward to working with you!
(909) 303-1337 View (909) 303-1337
Photo of Leyla Jolivette, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leyla Jolivette
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541
My name is Leyla Jolivette M.A., LMFT., APCC. I provide individual and couples therapy, and focus on helping people struggling with depression, relationship issues, trauma and PTSD, and coping skills. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, and Narrative Therapy. I am trained in EMDR, am a certified Grief Therapist, and am LGBTQ-trained and supportive. I am very passionate about providing the space for others to grow, discover themselves, and find more fulfillment in life.
My name is Leyla Jolivette M.A., LMFT., APCC. I provide individual and couples therapy, and focus on helping people struggling with depression, relationship issues, trauma and PTSD, and coping skills. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Trauma Focused CBT, and Narrative Therapy. I am trained in EMDR, am a certified Grief Therapist, and am LGBTQ-trained and supportive. I am very passionate about providing the space for others to grow, discover themselves, and find more fulfillment in life.
(818) 275-5766 View (818) 275-5766
Photo of Devera Jackson-Garber, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Devera Jackson-Garber
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hayward, CA 94541
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and other therapies to help individuals heal from trauma: e.
You are beautiful and deserve to be celebrated! As a Black Woman, Teen, Girl, and/or Queer person in a world that tries to stamp or silence you, you have survived some difficult things. Maybe someone significantly hurt you in childhood, or you experienced trauma as an adult. Maybe you lost someone and the grief feels unbearable. You have been trying to move on, but this "thing" just won't let you. Fortunately, there is help. You can recover and live a fulfilling life. You can feel more like yourself again and create the life that you want and deserve. A life of wholeness, joy, and freedom IS possible for you.
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and other therapies to help individuals heal from trauma: e.
You are beautiful and deserve to be celebrated! As a Black Woman, Teen, Girl, and/or Queer person in a world that tries to stamp or silence you, you have survived some difficult things. Maybe someone significantly hurt you in childhood, or you experienced trauma as an adult. Maybe you lost someone and the grief feels unbearable. You have been trying to move on, but this "thing" just won't let you. Fortunately, there is help. You can recover and live a fulfilling life. You can feel more like yourself again and create the life that you want and deserve. A life of wholeness, joy, and freedom IS possible for you.
(510) 391-5356 View (510) 391-5356
Photo of Leonard Ferrara, PhD, Psychologist
Leonard Ferrara
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94540
I am also certified in Hypnotherapy and have completed additional training in EMDR and Stress Reduction Training.
Who Should Help the Very Special You? Interview several therapists either in person or by phone. Ask them how they've helped other people. Ask them how they will approach your specific needs. A Little Bit About Me! My life's work is dedicated to guiding individuals towards personal transformation and fulfillment of their ultimate potential. The most important thing is today. Are you unhappy today and hoping tomorrow will be better? Only you can make the changes today that will make you happy tomorrow - don't wait.
I am also certified in Hypnotherapy and have completed additional training in EMDR and Stress Reduction Training.
Who Should Help the Very Special You? Interview several therapists either in person or by phone. Ask them how they've helped other people. Ask them how they will approach your specific needs. A Little Bit About Me! My life's work is dedicated to guiding individuals towards personal transformation and fulfillment of their ultimate potential. The most important thing is today. Are you unhappy today and hoping tomorrow will be better? Only you can make the changes today that will make you happy tomorrow - don't wait.
(510) 599-8392 View (510) 599-8392
Photo of Monica M Brown, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica M Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541
I work extensively with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and especially Post Traumatic Disorder (PTSD), combining EMDR with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a licensed psychotherapist working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, children, and groups using EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and humanistic modalities.I embrace cultural diversity and am experienced with treating a broad spectrum of clinical issues such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression,addictions,grief and loss, marital, relationship,life issues, and stress management among others.I work with all ages, starting from age 3 on up.
I work extensively with Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and especially Post Traumatic Disorder (PTSD), combining EMDR with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
I am a licensed psychotherapist working with individuals, families, couples, adolescents, children, and groups using EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy,Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and humanistic modalities.I embrace cultural diversity and am experienced with treating a broad spectrum of clinical issues such as trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression,addictions,grief and loss, marital, relationship,life issues, and stress management among others.I work with all ages, starting from age 3 on up.
(510) 985-4539 View (510) 985-4539
Photo of Kristin Porter, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin Porter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94540
I am also trained in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy as well as Healing Shame.
You can heal your life with your own mind/body! In today's stressful world, symptoms of anxiety, depression and troubled relationships are common. As an LMFT, I have 20+ years experience working with families, couples and individuals; healing traumas, mending relationships, reducing depression, anxiety and addiction and supporting personal growth. Focusing on "kindfulness," we work to shine a light of insight, offering profound transformation. With compassion and empathy, I guide clients to a deep sense of well-being which provides relief from many troubling symptoms and creates solutions to today's common modern life problems.
I am also trained in EMDR, Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy as well as Healing Shame.
You can heal your life with your own mind/body! In today's stressful world, symptoms of anxiety, depression and troubled relationships are common. As an LMFT, I have 20+ years experience working with families, couples and individuals; healing traumas, mending relationships, reducing depression, anxiety and addiction and supporting personal growth. Focusing on "kindfulness," we work to shine a light of insight, offering profound transformation. With compassion and empathy, I guide clients to a deep sense of well-being which provides relief from many troubling symptoms and creates solutions to today's common modern life problems.
(510) 788-2862 View (510) 788-2862
Photo of Sonia Malek, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sonia Malek
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hayward, CA 94542
For individuals interested in EMDR, we can discuss if it's a good fit for you as well.
My focus is on working with you to address current challenges, process past difficulties, and develop tools to overcome hurdles in relationships and daily life. I frequently work with individuals going through life changes, experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma, and couples with communication and conflict concerns. In addition, I work with neurodivergent individuals, including those on the autism spectrum, and parents, including parents of children with disabilities.
For individuals interested in EMDR, we can discuss if it's a good fit for you as well.
My focus is on working with you to address current challenges, process past difficulties, and develop tools to overcome hurdles in relationships and daily life. I frequently work with individuals going through life changes, experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma, and couples with communication and conflict concerns. In addition, I work with neurodivergent individuals, including those on the autism spectrum, and parents, including parents of children with disabilities.
(510) 617-1764 View (510) 617-1764
Photo of Colette Katuala, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colette Katuala
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94545  (Online Only)
As a professional social worker for over 20 years experience working within and throughout diverse communities, has been trained to conduct EMDR therapy, public speaking and curriculum development on topics including child welfare, child development and clinical practice.
My ideal client in on their path of self discovery and utilize my perspective along the way. I am best suited to treat clients that are motivated to change their current circumstance and can appreciate a strength based approach to finding solutions. Life is complex and, at times, overwhelming. Many times, people need clinical support to get through a difficult situation. Depression, anxiety, stress and substance abuse as it relates to professional and personal functioning are all areas that are supported in my practice. Connecting with my clients and their values is a position I hold dearly in my work.
As a professional social worker for over 20 years experience working within and throughout diverse communities, has been trained to conduct EMDR therapy, public speaking and curriculum development on topics including child welfare, child development and clinical practice.
My ideal client in on their path of self discovery and utilize my perspective along the way. I am best suited to treat clients that are motivated to change their current circumstance and can appreciate a strength based approach to finding solutions. Life is complex and, at times, overwhelming. Many times, people need clinical support to get through a difficult situation. Depression, anxiety, stress and substance abuse as it relates to professional and personal functioning are all areas that are supported in my practice. Connecting with my clients and their values is a position I hold dearly in my work.
(341) 222-3963 View (341) 222-3963
Photo of Christine Roslund - Christine Roslund, MFT, CPC, MA, MFT, CPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Roslund, MFT, CPC
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, CPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hayward, CA 94541  (Online Only)
I am also certified in a technique called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Are you struggling, feeling stagnate, having trouble moving beyond traumatic events or having relationship difficulties? I help people get past these all too common problems. I create a warm, safe, and nurturing environment using a client-centered and holistic approach. Together we will determine what the important issues affecting your life are. We will discover how you can resolve those issues so you can move on. For the past 20 years I have provided individualized, kind, solution-based therapy and life coaching for people of all ages.
I am also certified in a technique called EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
Are you struggling, feeling stagnate, having trouble moving beyond traumatic events or having relationship difficulties? I help people get past these all too common problems. I create a warm, safe, and nurturing environment using a client-centered and holistic approach. Together we will determine what the important issues affecting your life are. We will discover how you can resolve those issues so you can move on. For the past 20 years I have provided individualized, kind, solution-based therapy and life coaching for people of all ages.
(510) 983-8259 View (510) 983-8259
Photo of Alice Philips, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alice Philips
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Hayward, CA 94540
Specialty: Ending addictions with EMDR and Image Transformation Therapy in very few sessions.
"Know thyself." Until we know ourselves, we are tossed around by life's events and our circumstances whether work- related, relationships, or families. I believe that you know yourself better than anyone and have the answers in you already. By providing a safe place for you to discuss your thoughts and feelings, I am confident that you will arrive at solutions to your problems freeing you to make choices that lead to creating and accomplishing goals. I provide support, understanding, and a non-judgmental atmosphere where personal growth is not only possible, but can be achieved.
Specialty: Ending addictions with EMDR and Image Transformation Therapy in very few sessions.
"Know thyself." Until we know ourselves, we are tossed around by life's events and our circumstances whether work- related, relationships, or families. I believe that you know yourself better than anyone and have the answers in you already. By providing a safe place for you to discuss your thoughts and feelings, I am confident that you will arrive at solutions to your problems freeing you to make choices that lead to creating and accomplishing goals. I provide support, understanding, and a non-judgmental atmosphere where personal growth is not only possible, but can be achieved.
(510) 878-4039 View (510) 878-4039
Photo of Mona Attarian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mona Attarian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94545  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Mona Attarian, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). The individuals I meet face a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma. I work with adolescents, adults, and families. My approach to therapy addresses the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My approach is collaborative, warm, and direct, as I provide a safe and non-judgmental place. I use a wide range of approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Hi, my name is Mona Attarian, and I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). The individuals I meet face a range of challenges, including anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and trauma. I work with adolescents, adults, and families. My approach to therapy addresses the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. My approach is collaborative, warm, and direct, as I provide a safe and non-judgmental place. I use a wide range of approaches, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, Humanistic Therapy, Trauma Focused Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
(760) 313-7523 View (760) 313-7523
Photo of Carey Sebera, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carey Sebera
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94546
Carey Sebera, LCSW. I allow the client to lead with their hopes and desires for therapy, and get to know what drives them. Therapy is not one size fits all, and I quickly assess what may or may not be effective with each person. Seeing patterns and addressing difficult behaviors is an important part of a therapist's role, but it takes willingness and honesty from a client. We only know what you tell us! I am trained in EMDR, trauma, and addiction. I look forward to helping you achieve the life you desire.
Carey Sebera, LCSW. I allow the client to lead with their hopes and desires for therapy, and get to know what drives them. Therapy is not one size fits all, and I quickly assess what may or may not be effective with each person. Seeing patterns and addressing difficult behaviors is an important part of a therapist's role, but it takes willingness and honesty from a client. We only know what you tell us! I am trained in EMDR, trauma, and addiction. I look forward to helping you achieve the life you desire.
(619) 724-5070 View (619) 724-5070
Photo of Lauren Nicole Hill, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lauren Nicole Hill
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541  (Online Only)
Lauren’s speciality is in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression and relationships. One of the techniques she uses is called EMDR which helps reduce the effects that traumatic event (s) and panic are having on a persons life. She also has a breadth of knowledge and experience in CBT and DBT which has been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression.
Lauren’s speciality is in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression and relationships. One of the techniques she uses is called EMDR which helps reduce the effects that traumatic event (s) and panic are having on a persons life. She also has a breadth of knowledge and experience in CBT and DBT which has been shown to help reduce anxiety and depression.
(707) 380-8776 View (707) 380-8776
Photo of Pat Pearson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pat Pearson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94546
My name is Pat Pearson, RN, LMFT. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Pagosa Springs, CO, and working with clients in CA statewide via telehealth. I work with children, teens, and adults. I specialize in trauma, stress, and grief, using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Client-Centered Therapy, and Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My approach to therapy varies on the needs of each client I work with.
My name is Pat Pearson, RN, LMFT. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) based in Pagosa Springs, CO, and working with clients in CA statewide via telehealth. I work with children, teens, and adults. I specialize in trauma, stress, and grief, using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Brainspotting, Client-Centered Therapy, and Trauma Informed Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. My approach to therapy varies on the needs of each client I work with.
(424) 340-5905 View (424) 340-5905
Photo of Manda Selva, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Manda Selva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541  (Online Only)
I find somatic-based therapies like EMDR & Brainspotting to be very helpful and integrate them along with CBT, Jungian, Internal Family System, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Gottman II.
Accepting New Clients. Do you find it hard to cope with life due to relationship or career-related stress, grief, depression, childhood trauma and PTSD, unresolved family dynamics, or parenting challenges? Sometimes "feeling stuck" could be due to a recent or prior trauma or thinking that you are undeserving. Are you a couple or family who is out of sync or finding hard to communicate? Are you a First/Second generation struggling with family/culture-based expectations or trying to negotiate between 2 cultures? My style is warm, engaged & curious, and my role is to increase awareness and help you develop effective coping strategies.
I find somatic-based therapies like EMDR & Brainspotting to be very helpful and integrate them along with CBT, Jungian, Internal Family System, Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), and Gottman II.
Accepting New Clients. Do you find it hard to cope with life due to relationship or career-related stress, grief, depression, childhood trauma and PTSD, unresolved family dynamics, or parenting challenges? Sometimes "feeling stuck" could be due to a recent or prior trauma or thinking that you are undeserving. Are you a couple or family who is out of sync or finding hard to communicate? Are you a First/Second generation struggling with family/culture-based expectations or trying to negotiate between 2 cultures? My style is warm, engaged & curious, and my role is to increase awareness and help you develop effective coping strategies.
(510) 216-1287 View (510) 216-1287
Photo of Maria N Toscano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria N Toscano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94544
When we are struggling to decide what direction to take in our lives, talking to a professional could help us to clarify our ideas. I have been working with couples, individuals, children, adolescents and families for 7 years. I have been treating anxiety, depression, trauma, infidelity, relational problems, etc. I use client centered models and I am trained in EMDR for trauma. My work is based on my clients goals, supporting them on the way to achieve those goals in a gentle manner. Connection is very important between clients and therapist as an any relationship this will facilitate communication and trust.
When we are struggling to decide what direction to take in our lives, talking to a professional could help us to clarify our ideas. I have been working with couples, individuals, children, adolescents and families for 7 years. I have been treating anxiety, depression, trauma, infidelity, relational problems, etc. I use client centered models and I am trained in EMDR for trauma. My work is based on my clients goals, supporting them on the way to achieve those goals in a gentle manner. Connection is very important between clients and therapist as an any relationship this will facilitate communication and trust.
(925) 799-2304 View (925) 799-2304
Photo of Dawn Napier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dawn Napier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hayward, CA 94541
Hi, my name is Dawn Napier, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in CA. I work with teens, adults, active duty military women and men, veterans, Christians and senior adults. I enjoy providing professional, discerning counsel to Christians, solely based on biblical truth. I also enjoy working, helping, and encouraging people to lean into their spiritual beliefs and strengths as an avenue for healing. I treat mild to severe conditions such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, complex trauma, DV, separation and divorce, military issues, and personality disorders. I use a strengths based, humanistic, and client centered approach.
Hi, my name is Dawn Napier, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in CA. I work with teens, adults, active duty military women and men, veterans, Christians and senior adults. I enjoy providing professional, discerning counsel to Christians, solely based on biblical truth. I also enjoy working, helping, and encouraging people to lean into their spiritual beliefs and strengths as an avenue for healing. I treat mild to severe conditions such as anxiety, depression, grief and loss, PTSD, complex trauma, DV, separation and divorce, military issues, and personality disorders. I use a strengths based, humanistic, and client centered approach.
(510) 822-7509 View (510) 822-7509
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.