EMDR Therapists in La Habra, CA

Photo of Carol Crabson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Crabson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Habra, CA 90631
Hello, my name is Carol Crabson. I received my bachelor's degree in Humanistic Psychology from the University of Redlands and went on to receive my master's degree in social work from the University of California Los Angeles. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am based in Southern California working statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and youth who have anxiety, depression and other mental health issues due to experiencing trauma in their lives by using Cognitive Behavioral techniques, Internal Family Systems, EMDR and Strength based approaches.
Hello, my name is Carol Crabson. I received my bachelor's degree in Humanistic Psychology from the University of Redlands and went on to receive my master's degree in social work from the University of California Los Angeles. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am based in Southern California working statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and youth who have anxiety, depression and other mental health issues due to experiencing trauma in their lives by using Cognitive Behavioral techniques, Internal Family Systems, EMDR and Strength based approaches.
(562) 526-6012 View (562) 526-6012
Photo of Lindsay Guin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsay Guin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Habra, CA 90631
Hi! I'm Lindsay Guin, LMFT. I'm here to provide a safe and confidential space for you to work through all the things getting in the way of you being the person that you want to be. Together, let's figure out what you value, what's important, and how to live a life more in alignment with what you care about. I fit my approach to my client! I'm certified in DBT, trained in EMDR, and look at people and relationships through the lens of attachment...This means that together we will look at the early blueprints that you made of how the world and people work and see where you want to make changes to make life happier and better now.
Hi! I'm Lindsay Guin, LMFT. I'm here to provide a safe and confidential space for you to work through all the things getting in the way of you being the person that you want to be. Together, let's figure out what you value, what's important, and how to live a life more in alignment with what you care about. I fit my approach to my client! I'm certified in DBT, trained in EMDR, and look at people and relationships through the lens of attachment...This means that together we will look at the early blueprints that you made of how the world and people work and see where you want to make changes to make life happier and better now.
(562) 526-1564 View (562) 526-1564
Photo of Mercedes Quiceno, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mercedes Quiceno
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Habra, CA 90632
I am EMDR certified.
I enjoy working with couples and adults of all life stages, suffering from anxiety, depression, trying improve communications, relationships, functioning, and enhancing overall life satisfaction. I collaborate with you to come up with reasonable and attainable goals for positive life changes. You will experience a confidential and non-judgmental environment, where you are heard, understood, and appreciated. We explore your unique beliefs, thoughts, feelings and circumstances while discovering the therapy approach that works best for you. I am expanding my business working hours to early mornings and some Saturdays.
I am EMDR certified.
I enjoy working with couples and adults of all life stages, suffering from anxiety, depression, trying improve communications, relationships, functioning, and enhancing overall life satisfaction. I collaborate with you to come up with reasonable and attainable goals for positive life changes. You will experience a confidential and non-judgmental environment, where you are heard, understood, and appreciated. We explore your unique beliefs, thoughts, feelings and circumstances while discovering the therapy approach that works best for you. I am expanding my business working hours to early mornings and some Saturdays.
(562) 275-7033 View (562) 275-7033
Photo of Elizabeth Sanchez, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Habra, CA 90631
Accepting EMDR consultees.
Now accepting new clients/telehealth. Are you tired of feeling stuck? I am here to provide a safe place where we work together to challenge your current thoughts and feelings. My goal as a therapist is to provide counseling services to a diverse population, including services in Spanish. I enjoy working along side clients who are driven to positively change their lives and are willing to take the initiative to reach their destination of a more fulfilling life. My specialty is utilizing a strength-based approach with adult clients around issues of intimacy, stress management, life transitions, & enhancing personal relationships.
Accepting EMDR consultees.
Now accepting new clients/telehealth. Are you tired of feeling stuck? I am here to provide a safe place where we work together to challenge your current thoughts and feelings. My goal as a therapist is to provide counseling services to a diverse population, including services in Spanish. I enjoy working along side clients who are driven to positively change their lives and are willing to take the initiative to reach their destination of a more fulfilling life. My specialty is utilizing a strength-based approach with adult clients around issues of intimacy, stress management, life transitions, & enhancing personal relationships.
(909) 443-1613 View (909) 443-1613
Photo of Cynthia Peña-Rodriguez, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cynthia Peña-Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Habra, CA 90631
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained and certified in EMDR therapy, as well as Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
Are you wanting to improve your relationship with yourself, your family, friends, and/or romantic partner? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, or trauma? Through therapy we can work towards healing, while identifying underlying thoughts and patterns in order to achieve long term progress. Gaining insight about our own internal "blue print" can afford us the ability to make changes that can potentially change the direction of our lives. I take a very eclectic approach, as I utilize interventions from various theoretical approaches, in order to tailor therapy to each particular client.
I am trained and certified in EMDR therapy, as well as Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
Are you wanting to improve your relationship with yourself, your family, friends, and/or romantic partner? Do you struggle with anxiety, depression, unresolved grief, or trauma? Through therapy we can work towards healing, while identifying underlying thoughts and patterns in order to achieve long term progress. Gaining insight about our own internal "blue print" can afford us the ability to make changes that can potentially change the direction of our lives. I take a very eclectic approach, as I utilize interventions from various theoretical approaches, in order to tailor therapy to each particular client.
(562) 203-0923 View (562) 203-0923
Photo of Travis Michael Mead, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Travis Michael Mead
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Habra, CA 90631
One of the services I offer, that appears to be uncommon, is EMDR treatment covered by medical insurance.
I have been a licensed psychotherapist for 43 years and have developed a number of specialties over the years. These include the treatment of traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, dysfunctional family of origin issues, dissociative disorders, mind/body issues, eating disorders, stress management, coping skills training and relaxation training. Besides Cognitive Therapy, I utilize EMDR, hypnosis and Alpha-Stim in my therapeutic work with clients. I also do "parts work", as in Internal Family Systems and Ericksonian Psychotherapy. I do in-person sessions: Tuesdays & Thursdays. I do Telehealth sessions: Mondays & Wednesdays.
One of the services I offer, that appears to be uncommon, is EMDR treatment covered by medical insurance.
I have been a licensed psychotherapist for 43 years and have developed a number of specialties over the years. These include the treatment of traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, dysfunctional family of origin issues, dissociative disorders, mind/body issues, eating disorders, stress management, coping skills training and relaxation training. Besides Cognitive Therapy, I utilize EMDR, hypnosis and Alpha-Stim in my therapeutic work with clients. I also do "parts work", as in Internal Family Systems and Ericksonian Psychotherapy. I do in-person sessions: Tuesdays & Thursdays. I do Telehealth sessions: Mondays & Wednesdays.
(562) 273-9822 View (562) 273-9822
Photo of Catarsys Family Counseling- - Cynthia Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catarsys Family Counseling- - Cynthia Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Habra, CA 90632
I am trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, FOCUS (Families Overcoming Under stress), Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy.
As we wonder how to navigate life, we may face several obstacles and challenges that can seem overwhelming or unbearable. As a Mental Health Professional, I am here to support people on how to successfully keep themselves afloat. I received my Bachelors degree in Psychology in 1997 from the Universidad de Guadalajara in Mexico, and after a couple of years treating people of all ages I decided to move to California to complete graduate school. I graduated with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology, with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University in 2006 and I have been licensed since 2012.
I am trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, FOCUS (Families Overcoming Under stress), Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy.
As we wonder how to navigate life, we may face several obstacles and challenges that can seem overwhelming or unbearable. As a Mental Health Professional, I am here to support people on how to successfully keep themselves afloat. I received my Bachelors degree in Psychology in 1997 from the Universidad de Guadalajara in Mexico, and after a couple of years treating people of all ages I decided to move to California to complete graduate school. I graduated with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology, with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University in 2006 and I have been licensed since 2012.
(714) 463-1488 View (714) 463-1488
Photo of Carolina Vargas, MS, LMFT, SEP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolina Vargas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, SEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Habra, CA 90631
Trained in IFS, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and psychoanalytic psychotherapy to help support you in finding relief & creating the life you want.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, depressed or stuck, I recognize the impact it can have on your relationships, goals, self-esteem and how you feel in your mind and body. If you find yourself affected by difficult events, grief, and trauma from your past, I understand how it can interfere with daily life making it difficult to focus mentally, relax physically, and enjoy the things you once loved. You do not have to go through this alone. I am committed to providing compassionate support and guidance as we work together to find clarity, joy and reclaim ease in your mind, body and spirit. Change is possible. Healing is possible.
Trained in IFS, EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and psychoanalytic psychotherapy to help support you in finding relief & creating the life you want.
Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed, depressed or stuck, I recognize the impact it can have on your relationships, goals, self-esteem and how you feel in your mind and body. If you find yourself affected by difficult events, grief, and trauma from your past, I understand how it can interfere with daily life making it difficult to focus mentally, relax physically, and enjoy the things you once loved. You do not have to go through this alone. I am committed to providing compassionate support and guidance as we work together to find clarity, joy and reclaim ease in your mind, body and spirit. Change is possible. Healing is possible.
(562) 512-7012 View (562) 512-7012
Photo of Susan Kooyman Harris, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Kooyman Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Habra, CA 90631
Have you been overwhelmed by problems and wished you could find a safe place with answers? Have you thought about therapy to help you cope with your pressures, disturbing emotions, or relationship issues? At Harris Marriage & Family Therapy, Inc., I would be happy to help you start this journey. It is often said that the longest journey begins with a single step. I am ready to help you take that step. I can teach you communication skills and equip you with tools to resolve conflicts to help you enjoy a happier and healthier life.
Have you been overwhelmed by problems and wished you could find a safe place with answers? Have you thought about therapy to help you cope with your pressures, disturbing emotions, or relationship issues? At Harris Marriage & Family Therapy, Inc., I would be happy to help you start this journey. It is often said that the longest journey begins with a single step. I am ready to help you take that step. I can teach you communication skills and equip you with tools to resolve conflicts to help you enjoy a happier and healthier life.
(562) 250-5586 View (562) 250-5586
Photo of Janet Polanco, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Polanco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Habra, CA 90631
Seeking someone to listen? To aide you in improving yourself, your relationships, or in achieving emotional strength? I am a bilingual (Spanish & English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in helping individuals, families and couples better their communication, problem solving and conflict resolution skills. I have worked with children and adolescents in improving behavior, emotional regulation and school functioning. I provide a safe, trusting, and confidential place where you can express your thoughts and feelings in a positive healthy manner without fear of being negatively judged. Together we can determine appropriate treatment that meets your needs.
Seeking someone to listen? To aide you in improving yourself, your relationships, or in achieving emotional strength? I am a bilingual (Spanish & English) Licensed Clinical Social Worker with experience in helping individuals, families and couples better their communication, problem solving and conflict resolution skills. I have worked with children and adolescents in improving behavior, emotional regulation and school functioning. I provide a safe, trusting, and confidential place where you can express your thoughts and feelings in a positive healthy manner without fear of being negatively judged. Together we can determine appropriate treatment that meets your needs.
(310) 683-4592 View (310) 683-4592
Photo of Rita Morales - R&R Healing Family Therapy, Inc, MS, PPSC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
R&R Healing Family Therapy, Inc
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, PPSC, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Habra, CA 90631
Are you struggling in an unhealthy relationship? Is overeating an issue? Are you or someone you love have an addiction? If you answered yes, you do not have to walk through this alone. We are here to serve you. It is our passion and belief that counseling/psychotherapy is absolutely one of the best tools needed to support empowerment through learning about oneself, working through personal past/present emotional pain and effective communication skills. We will provide you a safe, warm and nurturing environment to express your pain, frustration, thoughts and feelings.
Are you struggling in an unhealthy relationship? Is overeating an issue? Are you or someone you love have an addiction? If you answered yes, you do not have to walk through this alone. We are here to serve you. It is our passion and belief that counseling/psychotherapy is absolutely one of the best tools needed to support empowerment through learning about oneself, working through personal past/present emotional pain and effective communication skills. We will provide you a safe, warm and nurturing environment to express your pain, frustration, thoughts and feelings.
(562) 354-8775 View (562) 354-8775
Photo of Carolyn Hudson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Hudson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Habra, CA 90631
I will join with you to establish short-term or long-term treatment goals based on your expressed needs. I do believe that our history has contributed to who we are today. I take the time to learn about your family of origin and significant events from the past, while focusing on how this impacts your life now. Awareness of patterns is especially helpful in breaking cycles of unhealthy behavior. My approach to both individual and couples therapy is attachment-based. The ability to connect with others while maintaining a clear sense of ourselves is a focus in therapy.
I will join with you to establish short-term or long-term treatment goals based on your expressed needs. I do believe that our history has contributed to who we are today. I take the time to learn about your family of origin and significant events from the past, while focusing on how this impacts your life now. Awareness of patterns is especially helpful in breaking cycles of unhealthy behavior. My approach to both individual and couples therapy is attachment-based. The ability to connect with others while maintaining a clear sense of ourselves is a focus in therapy.
(714) 594-7799 View (714) 594-7799
Photo of Cesar Rauda Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cesar Rauda Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Habra, CA 90631
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS in CA for in person and online and in Florida online ONLY. The process of finding the right therapist can be challenging and stressful. Finding the right therapist for you means finding a therapist who you can connect with, feel safe with, and who understands you. My hope is to make this process as easy as possible. I will offer you support in improving your mental health by collaborating with you towards achieving healthier & fulfilling relationships.
***NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS in CA for in person and online and in Florida online ONLY. The process of finding the right therapist can be challenging and stressful. Finding the right therapist for you means finding a therapist who you can connect with, feel safe with, and who understands you. My hope is to make this process as easy as possible. I will offer you support in improving your mental health by collaborating with you towards achieving healthier & fulfilling relationships.
(562) 539-4536 View (562) 539-4536
Photo of Solace Treatment Center - Solace Treatment Center, Marriage & Family Therapist
Solace Treatment Center
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
La Habra, CA 90631
Los Angeles’s Premier Mental Health & Substance Abuse Outpatient Treatment Center is committed to improving the lives of individuals who are struggling with mental health and substance abuse. Regardless of how these issues are impacting your life, we can help you move past them to a better you. Whether you or a loved one are struggling with mental health issues or drug and alcohol abuse, we are equipped to be able to help find a way out.
Los Angeles’s Premier Mental Health & Substance Abuse Outpatient Treatment Center is committed to improving the lives of individuals who are struggling with mental health and substance abuse. Regardless of how these issues are impacting your life, we can help you move past them to a better you. Whether you or a loved one are struggling with mental health issues or drug and alcohol abuse, we are equipped to be able to help find a way out.
(562) 568-9382 View (562) 568-9382
Photo of Carolyn Hudson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Hudson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
La Habra, CA 90631
You said "I do." "I choose you." You vowed to keep choosing them each day for life. Sometimes the disconnection makes it challenging to recall the vision you had for your future. It is not time to give up on your dream. It is time to dig in, do the work, and live the best version of your relationship. If you are both willing, there is no need to remain in that "stuck" place. There is a way to connect again. Allow yourselves to have hope because you truly can be better than ever.
You said "I do." "I choose you." You vowed to keep choosing them each day for life. Sometimes the disconnection makes it challenging to recall the vision you had for your future. It is not time to give up on your dream. It is time to dig in, do the work, and live the best version of your relationship. If you are both willing, there is no need to remain in that "stuck" place. There is a way to connect again. Allow yourselves to have hope because you truly can be better than ever.
(657) 300-5299 View (657) 300-5299

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Christy Garcia, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christy Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
I'm trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which is a trauma-specific therapy model, but also draw from other trauma-focused techniques to help you heal and growth.
Hi, I'm Christy, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I help individuals who are struggling to overcome painful memories learn how to make peace with the past so you can move forward with your life. I enjoy assisting individuals in overcoming depression, anxiety and trauma and am trained in EMDR. As a trauma-informed therapist, my approach to therapy is very gentle and person-centered. Instead of considering “what’s wrong with you?” I’m more interested in learning about what happened to you that brought you to the point of seeking a therapist.
I'm trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which is a trauma-specific therapy model, but also draw from other trauma-focused techniques to help you heal and growth.
Hi, I'm Christy, a Licensed Marriage & Family Therapist. I help individuals who are struggling to overcome painful memories learn how to make peace with the past so you can move forward with your life. I enjoy assisting individuals in overcoming depression, anxiety and trauma and am trained in EMDR. As a trauma-informed therapist, my approach to therapy is very gentle and person-centered. Instead of considering “what’s wrong with you?” I’m more interested in learning about what happened to you that brought you to the point of seeking a therapist.
(323) 612-1923 View (323) 612-1923
Photo of Mariam Holt, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mariam Holt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
I am trained in EMDR , Gottman level 1 & 2 as well as Prepare and Enrich.
As humans, we seek love and acceptance to become whole. Somewhere in our lives, we became broken due to external circumstances beyond our control or choices that we have made. The therapeutic relationship offers healing and provides hope and acceptance. Helping clients come to a place of congruence and authenticity where they value and accept themselves is my primary goal. I believe I can genuinely change the trajectory of my clients’ lives through healing and guide them to achieve a powerful transformation . My desire is to provide a safe place for you to share your thoughts and feelings freely .
I am trained in EMDR , Gottman level 1 & 2 as well as Prepare and Enrich.
As humans, we seek love and acceptance to become whole. Somewhere in our lives, we became broken due to external circumstances beyond our control or choices that we have made. The therapeutic relationship offers healing and provides hope and acceptance. Helping clients come to a place of congruence and authenticity where they value and accept themselves is my primary goal. I believe I can genuinely change the trajectory of my clients’ lives through healing and guide them to achieve a powerful transformation . My desire is to provide a safe place for you to share your thoughts and feelings freely .
(949) 373-4691 View (949) 373-4691
Photo of Sharlene Escobar, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Sharlene Escobar
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brea, CA 92821
Also, I have completed EMDR training (not certified), which is a treatment method for reprocessing relational ruptures and trauma that can make us feel stuck and in pain.
As your therapist, I will meet you with kindness and compassion wherever you are in life. I would be honored to walk alongside you as you find the courage to explore your pain, stress, and struggles with gentleness and curiosity. Together, we will attend to the parts of yourself who need attention and care.
Also, I have completed EMDR training (not certified), which is a treatment method for reprocessing relational ruptures and trauma that can make us feel stuck and in pain.
As your therapist, I will meet you with kindness and compassion wherever you are in life. I would be honored to walk alongside you as you find the courage to explore your pain, stress, and struggles with gentleness and curiosity. Together, we will attend to the parts of yourself who need attention and care.
(657) 837-0404 View (657) 837-0404
Photo of Susan S Koin, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Susan S Koin
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fullerton, CA 92835
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with EMDR training and couple therapy experience.
Taking the initial step requires bravery. I delight to accompany you on your journey to a more meaningful and satisfying life. I approach psychotherapy in an integrated and holistic style that recognizes the interdependence of mind, body, and emotional wellness. I offer a secure and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions and express yourself. My practice is founded on respect, compassion, and empathy. I'll also challenge you with a simple, yet supportive and nonjudgmental approach to assist and guide you on your journey of self-discovery while building your emotional intelligence.
I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with EMDR training and couple therapy experience.
Taking the initial step requires bravery. I delight to accompany you on your journey to a more meaningful and satisfying life. I approach psychotherapy in an integrated and holistic style that recognizes the interdependence of mind, body, and emotional wellness. I offer a secure and supportive environment where you can explore your emotions and express yourself. My practice is founded on respect, compassion, and empathy. I'll also challenge you with a simple, yet supportive and nonjudgmental approach to assist and guide you on your journey of self-discovery while building your emotional intelligence.
(657) 259-9382 View (657) 259-9382
Photo of Maria Hernandez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Brea, CA 92821
I also have certifications in the following areas EMDR, Solution Focused, Cognitive behavioral therapy and Batterers intervention program.
I am excited that you are here today. My primary job as a psychotherapist is to assist others in managing issues in life. I enjoy helping others; I like providing the right tools to individuals in order to allow them to see their potential in life; to see them make progress towards their goals. However, this is not my only role in life. I am also a friend, partner, and step-parent who plays a role in who I am today and my personality. I believe my personality is very welcoming to others.
I also have certifications in the following areas EMDR, Solution Focused, Cognitive behavioral therapy and Batterers intervention program.
I am excited that you are here today. My primary job as a psychotherapist is to assist others in managing issues in life. I enjoy helping others; I like providing the right tools to individuals in order to allow them to see their potential in life; to see them make progress towards their goals. However, this is not my only role in life. I am also a friend, partner, and step-parent who plays a role in who I am today and my personality. I believe my personality is very welcoming to others.
(510) 907-7157 View (510) 907-7157
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.