EMDR Therapists in Laguna Hills, CA

Photo of Janine Neale, LCSW, EMDR , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janine Neale
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I am an EMDR certified therapist and have been using EMDR in my practice for 10 years.
My hope is that everyone walks around this earth believing they can handle anything. I can help you find your way. EMDR therapy can be used in many facets. Not only for trauma, but managing anxiety, depression, and relationships. I have tools that can also help with performance enhancement in sports, work, and in all areas of your life. Let's work together getting rid of what's blocking you and start living your life.
I am an EMDR certified therapist and have been using EMDR in my practice for 10 years.
My hope is that everyone walks around this earth believing they can handle anything. I can help you find your way. EMDR therapy can be used in many facets. Not only for trauma, but managing anxiety, depression, and relationships. I have tools that can also help with performance enhancement in sports, work, and in all areas of your life. Let's work together getting rid of what's blocking you and start living your life.
(949) 771-7277 View (949) 771-7277
Photo of Sandra Hayden - Sunny Hills Medical Center, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sunny Hills Medical Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I am a certified EMDR therapist and have a specialty in dealing with trauma and PTSD.
I practice a style of therapy that is both strengths based and solution focused. It is my belief that people have within themselves and the environment the ability and resources to heal and lead meaningful lives. Traumatic life events have the potential to keep individuals feeling stuck. It can prevent us from realizing our full potential and maintaining a healthy self -esteem. During the course of treatment EMDR therapy may be utilized to resolve those issues and facilitate solutions that work best for you based on your own life experience, beliefs and personal strengths.
I am a certified EMDR therapist and have a specialty in dealing with trauma and PTSD.
I practice a style of therapy that is both strengths based and solution focused. It is my belief that people have within themselves and the environment the ability and resources to heal and lead meaningful lives. Traumatic life events have the potential to keep individuals feeling stuck. It can prevent us from realizing our full potential and maintaining a healthy self -esteem. During the course of treatment EMDR therapy may be utilized to resolve those issues and facilitate solutions that work best for you based on your own life experience, beliefs and personal strengths.
(714) 294-2960 View (714) 294-2960
Photo of Alexandra Bozick, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Bozick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I am trained in EMDR therapy for trauma.
Do you find yourself needing help with life stressors that are more challenging than you can handle? Are you ready to make changes in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I provide a safe environment to address life’s challenges and uncover the best version of yourself. In working together, I will help you gain insight and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life while achieving your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to a more fulfilling life.
I am trained in EMDR therapy for trauma.
Do you find yourself needing help with life stressors that are more challenging than you can handle? Are you ready to make changes in your life? It takes courage to ask for help, but the rewards of doing so can lead to a lifetime of fulfillment. I provide a safe environment to address life’s challenges and uncover the best version of yourself. In working together, I will help you gain insight and develop solutions that can help you gain control of your life while achieving your goals. Ultimately, therapy can lead you to a more fulfilling life.
(714) 415-2634 View (714) 415-2634
Photo of Junko Johnson, MS, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Junko Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I am a certified therapist in both EMDR and Play Therapy.
Everyone has a story; everyone has struggles; everyone is fighting their own battle. We all experience some degree of suffering though it and all of us need a safe place. A safe place where we can be who we really are, where we can listen to our own needs, wants, feelings, and beliefs. I create this kind of environment for you by providing validation, empathy, and compassion. I conduct psychotherapy with adults, young children, and adolescents. My style of practice is client-centered. I create an approach tailored to the particular characteristics and needs of each client.
I am a certified therapist in both EMDR and Play Therapy.
Everyone has a story; everyone has struggles; everyone is fighting their own battle. We all experience some degree of suffering though it and all of us need a safe place. A safe place where we can be who we really are, where we can listen to our own needs, wants, feelings, and beliefs. I create this kind of environment for you by providing validation, empathy, and compassion. I conduct psychotherapy with adults, young children, and adolescents. My style of practice is client-centered. I create an approach tailored to the particular characteristics and needs of each client.
(949) 522-7580 View (949) 522-7580
Photo of Ashlee Hawasli - Faith in Body, Mind, and Soul, LCSW, PPSC, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Faith in Body, Mind, and Soul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and DBT.
Welcome to my page! I assist with individuals who struggle with anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues at school, home, or work. If your goals include improving your relationships, academics, communication or overall happiness then you have come to the right place! I would like to assure you that I will assist you by providing treatment that is personalized to your goals and needs. As a young professional, I am able to relate to children, teens, and young adults to build a trusting relationship required for effective treatment and therapy.
I am trained in EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and DBT.
Welcome to my page! I assist with individuals who struggle with anxiety disorders, depression, ADHD, behavioral issues at school, home, or work. If your goals include improving your relationships, academics, communication or overall happiness then you have come to the right place! I would like to assure you that I will assist you by providing treatment that is personalized to your goals and needs. As a young professional, I am able to relate to children, teens, and young adults to build a trusting relationship required for effective treatment and therapy.
(323) 870-8654 View (323) 870-8654
Photo of Jennifer Broege, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Broege
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653  (Online Only)
My focus is treatment for the whole person; integrating practices in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness, and strengthening your innate resilience.
I utilize techniques to help alleviate symptoms, keep you grounded in the present, challenge unhelpful thoughts and work on plans for a more hopeful future. I work with adults and older teens. I offer a BIPOC & LBGTQ+ Safe Place.
My focus is treatment for the whole person; integrating practices in Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR, mindfulness, and strengthening your innate resilience.
I utilize techniques to help alleviate symptoms, keep you grounded in the present, challenge unhelpful thoughts and work on plans for a more hopeful future. I work with adults and older teens. I offer a BIPOC & LBGTQ+ Safe Place.
(415) 831-7826 View (415) 831-7826
Photo of Sibylle Georgianna, PhD, PSY, EMDR-C, CSAT-S, CCPS, Psychologist
Sibylle Georgianna
Psychologist, PhD, PSY, EMDR-C, CSAT-S, CCPS
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Waitlist for new clients
I use EMDR therapy and a trauma based approach to treatment.
Whether you visit face-to-face in the office or in an online consultation with me: there is hope for your/your loved one: Confused or overwhelmed by what you are facing (e.g., relationship distress, dealing with complex physical conditions)? Trying to make sense of what is going on? Affected by betrayal or simply looking for tools to navigate today's complex challenges? I help adults, couples, and adolescents to eliminate problem behaviors or issues related to stress including work, sex, love relationships. I treat sexual pain, internet and pornography addiction, emotional/sexual affairs, trauma, and financial betrayal.
I use EMDR therapy and a trauma based approach to treatment.
Whether you visit face-to-face in the office or in an online consultation with me: there is hope for your/your loved one: Confused or overwhelmed by what you are facing (e.g., relationship distress, dealing with complex physical conditions)? Trying to make sense of what is going on? Affected by betrayal or simply looking for tools to navigate today's complex challenges? I help adults, couples, and adolescents to eliminate problem behaviors or issues related to stress including work, sex, love relationships. I treat sexual pain, internet and pornography addiction, emotional/sexual affairs, trauma, and financial betrayal.
(562) 203-8846 View (562) 203-8846
Photo of Lindsey Fletcher, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lindsey Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I work with trauma using EMDR.
Being REAL, therapy is hard and challenging to face all the pain we try to avoid. Finding a therapist is usually the hardest part! Maybe you're struggling with the pain of loneliness or being controlled by overwhelming fears? Are you watching the relationships in your life and not sure why you feel so disconnected and misunderstood? Maybe you have experienced betrayal and trauma? I want you to feel safe to go deeper, stay in the emotions and gain more self awareness to make decisions in your relationships.
I work with trauma using EMDR.
Being REAL, therapy is hard and challenging to face all the pain we try to avoid. Finding a therapist is usually the hardest part! Maybe you're struggling with the pain of loneliness or being controlled by overwhelming fears? Are you watching the relationships in your life and not sure why you feel so disconnected and misunderstood? Maybe you have experienced betrayal and trauma? I want you to feel safe to go deeper, stay in the emotions and gain more self awareness to make decisions in your relationships.
(949) 978-0358 View (949) 978-0358
Photo of Doug Pleiman, LCSW, LAADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doug Pleiman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LAADC
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I combine interventions such as DBT, CBT, MBSR, ACT, EMDR, solution focused therapy, and specialized trauma interventions to provide a holistic therapeutic experience.
Finding a therapist that you 'click' with goes a long way in making progress towards your goals. The first session is free to ensure the goodness of fit. I've been practicing as a clinician since 2014 and specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addictions (substances, sex, gaming, scrolling, shopping, gambling, etc).
I combine interventions such as DBT, CBT, MBSR, ACT, EMDR, solution focused therapy, and specialized trauma interventions to provide a holistic therapeutic experience.
Finding a therapist that you 'click' with goes a long way in making progress towards your goals. The first session is free to ensure the goodness of fit. I've been practicing as a clinician since 2014 and specialize in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, low self-esteem, eating disorders, personality disorders, and addictions (substances, sex, gaming, scrolling, shopping, gambling, etc).
(949) 997-1583 View (949) 997-1583
Photo of Annette R Smith, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Annette R Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I am certified in EMDR therapy, trained in CBT, EFT & DBT therapies.
Congratulations for taking the first step towards improving the quality of your life! I understand how difficult this can be and I am here to help. Together, we can work through whatever problems, frustrations, pain or other issues you may be facing. I will help you reach your goals in a way that honors your individual needs, values and beliefs. Whether you've come for couples counseling, short term help through a crisis, a stage of life transition or deeper work, I will help you through the pain, doubt and fear to reach a better place, without judgment.
I am certified in EMDR therapy, trained in CBT, EFT & DBT therapies.
Congratulations for taking the first step towards improving the quality of your life! I understand how difficult this can be and I am here to help. Together, we can work through whatever problems, frustrations, pain or other issues you may be facing. I will help you reach your goals in a way that honors your individual needs, values and beliefs. Whether you've come for couples counseling, short term help through a crisis, a stage of life transition or deeper work, I will help you through the pain, doubt and fear to reach a better place, without judgment.
(949) 482-6814 View (949) 482-6814
Photo of Jill Boultinghouse, MA, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Boultinghouse
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I provide a variety of treatments and solutions, including EMDR.
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I truly understand how difficult it can be to ask for help. Many feel uncomfortable & anxious when seeking help from a counselor about such sensitive & personal issues. It takes courage and faith to reach out. I believe together we will find real solutions to your struggles.
I provide a variety of treatments and solutions, including EMDR.
I have over 20 years of experience as a therapist. I truly understand how difficult it can be to ask for help. Many feel uncomfortable & anxious when seeking help from a counselor about such sensitive & personal issues. It takes courage and faith to reach out. I believe together we will find real solutions to your struggles.
(949) 258-9739 View (949) 258-9739
Photo of Audrey Grider - New Flight Counseling: Audrey Grider, MS, LMFT, MS, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
New Flight Counseling: Audrey Grider, MS, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92654  (Online Only)
EMDR helps clear emotional triggers attached to your memories, and I combine this with talk therapy, meditation, and more to process your past and present difficulties.
As an artist, I understand what it can be like to have creative blocks or feelings of disconnection from your spiritual path. My practice is focused on people who have lost their direction in life, and hope to regain a sense of Self at a deep Soul level. Past or present trauma may be the source of these challenges, showing up as anxiety, depression, grief, anger or hurt. You may have a negative view of yourself, and this can impact your creativity & relationships. Many times, these feelings originated in childhood. I am certified in EMDR, and approach therapy holistically to honor your mind, body, spirit, emotions, & relationships.
EMDR helps clear emotional triggers attached to your memories, and I combine this with talk therapy, meditation, and more to process your past and present difficulties.
As an artist, I understand what it can be like to have creative blocks or feelings of disconnection from your spiritual path. My practice is focused on people who have lost their direction in life, and hope to regain a sense of Self at a deep Soul level. Past or present trauma may be the source of these challenges, showing up as anxiety, depression, grief, anger or hurt. You may have a negative view of yourself, and this can impact your creativity & relationships. Many times, these feelings originated in childhood. I am certified in EMDR, and approach therapy holistically to honor your mind, body, spirit, emotions, & relationships.
(949) 997-0237 View (949) 997-0237
Photo of Karin Draper, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karin Draper
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
EMDR in particular has been an absolute game-changer for many of my clients.
Most people who seek counseling do so because something in their life is not quite right. Maybe you have already identified what is off in your life – depression, anxiety, a toxic relationship, a past trauma, a painful life transition. Maybe you are the family member or friend that people generally rely on; you give to others freely but sometimes feel as though you are running on “low” and have few places or people to turn to for your own needs. Or perhaps you just know that something is off, that you could be happier or more fulfilled than you are currently.
EMDR in particular has been an absolute game-changer for many of my clients.
Most people who seek counseling do so because something in their life is not quite right. Maybe you have already identified what is off in your life – depression, anxiety, a toxic relationship, a past trauma, a painful life transition. Maybe you are the family member or friend that people generally rely on; you give to others freely but sometimes feel as though you are running on “low” and have few places or people to turn to for your own needs. Or perhaps you just know that something is off, that you could be happier or more fulfilled than you are currently.
(949) 667-5786 View (949) 667-5786
Photo of Brandon Vazirian, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brandon Vazirian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I am a BTTI graduate of the OCD Foundation, Certified in Triple P, and EMDR Trained.
The resiliency of people is always something that inspires me. It is my belief that each person is unique and has the potential to grow and change, all it takes is the desire and the commitment to do the work. As a therapist I have had the privilege of walking along side people and see these changes first hand, whether it's through an awaking of insight, breaking patterns of behavior, lifting of anxiety/depression, or deepening of relationships. Therapy is an intimate, empowering experience, and it is truly a beautiful thing to see people meet their goals and lead the lives they always wanted. Lets begin that journey together today.
I am a BTTI graduate of the OCD Foundation, Certified in Triple P, and EMDR Trained.
The resiliency of people is always something that inspires me. It is my belief that each person is unique and has the potential to grow and change, all it takes is the desire and the commitment to do the work. As a therapist I have had the privilege of walking along side people and see these changes first hand, whether it's through an awaking of insight, breaking patterns of behavior, lifting of anxiety/depression, or deepening of relationships. Therapy is an intimate, empowering experience, and it is truly a beautiful thing to see people meet their goals and lead the lives they always wanted. Lets begin that journey together today.
(714) 989-6973 View (714) 989-6973
Photo of Suzanne Koch Eckenrode, LMFT, BACC, ICGC-II, CCGC-II, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanne Koch Eckenrode
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, BACC, ICGC-II, CCGC-II
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
Using attachment focused EMDR, a highly researched & effective therapy, I can help resolve your issues quicker and deeper than traditional talk-therapy.
Are you anxious, overwhelmed, or out of control? I can help you take back your life & find serenity through dealing with your or your loved ones gambling problem, co-dependency, trauma, anxiety & depression. Through therapy, you will find relief from the struggles that impede your creating the life & relationships you want & deserve. I can also help you take your recovery to the next level And, I work with family members to understand & deal with addictions & high functioning ASD in adults while finding peace, strength, tools & support to care for themselves.
Using attachment focused EMDR, a highly researched & effective therapy, I can help resolve your issues quicker and deeper than traditional talk-therapy.
Are you anxious, overwhelmed, or out of control? I can help you take back your life & find serenity through dealing with your or your loved ones gambling problem, co-dependency, trauma, anxiety & depression. Through therapy, you will find relief from the struggles that impede your creating the life & relationships you want & deserve. I can also help you take your recovery to the next level And, I work with family members to understand & deal with addictions & high functioning ASD in adults while finding peace, strength, tools & support to care for themselves.
(619) 405-6180 View (619) 405-6180
Photo of Mary C Pratt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary C Pratt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I also specialize in using EMDR with children and adults to address big or little traumas.
I have been working with individuals and families for over 20 years. I love helping individuals and families feel more competent and happy. Whether it is an issue with your preschooler or communication problems with your teenager, I can help find a solution that everyone can live with.
I also specialize in using EMDR with children and adults to address big or little traumas.
I have been working with individuals and families for over 20 years. I love helping individuals and families feel more competent and happy. Whether it is an issue with your preschooler or communication problems with your teenager, I can help find a solution that everyone can live with.
(949) 485-4563 View (949) 485-4563
Photo of Dr. Elaine Montag, BA, MA, PsyD, CCC, Psychologist
Dr. Elaine Montag
Psychologist, BA, MA, PsyD, CCC
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
If you are in emotional pain you can find relief in our first session. Most clients have drastic improvement in 4-8 weeks. My work is non-judging and compassionate. I am directive, specific, goal oriented and incorporate a variety of tools customized to your needs. This includes: EMDR, Cognitive Work, Meditative work, supplements to improve mood, Energy work in our healing room, Intuitive knowing of core patterns, prayer, healing grief. I offer a holistic approach to healing on all levels. About Me: I enjoy meditation, spiritual contemplation, sports, animals, nature, hiking, reading and lots of laughter.
If you are in emotional pain you can find relief in our first session. Most clients have drastic improvement in 4-8 weeks. My work is non-judging and compassionate. I am directive, specific, goal oriented and incorporate a variety of tools customized to your needs. This includes: EMDR, Cognitive Work, Meditative work, supplements to improve mood, Energy work in our healing room, Intuitive knowing of core patterns, prayer, healing grief. I offer a holistic approach to healing on all levels. About Me: I enjoy meditation, spiritual contemplation, sports, animals, nature, hiking, reading and lots of laughter.
(949) 347-5886 View (949) 347-5886
Photo of Nancie Kohlenberger, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancie Kohlenberger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Laguna Hills, CA 92653  (Online Only)
I use a humanistic approach and such techniques as EMDR, EFT, and most importantly, compassionate listening, to help break through the barriers that seem to be getting in your way.
Are you looking for a therapist who is passionate about helping you deal effectively with your life and your relationships? Together, we will evaluate where you are and where you want to be. We can work with issues of anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges, I collaborate with you on setting reasonable and attainable goals. Hopefully, you will see results pretty quickly so you know you are on the right path. I will be by your side helping you to move gently towards living your best life, gaining confidence with every step you take.
I use a humanistic approach and such techniques as EMDR, EFT, and most importantly, compassionate listening, to help break through the barriers that seem to be getting in your way.
Are you looking for a therapist who is passionate about helping you deal effectively with your life and your relationships? Together, we will evaluate where you are and where you want to be. We can work with issues of anxiety, stress, life transitions, and relationship challenges, I collaborate with you on setting reasonable and attainable goals. Hopefully, you will see results pretty quickly so you know you are on the right path. I will be by your side helping you to move gently towards living your best life, gaining confidence with every step you take.
(949) 518-0499 View (949) 518-0499
Photo of Makena Knapp, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Makena Knapp
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I'm trained in EMDR, a powerful tool that can help you adapt painful memories and alleviate their emotional impact, whether past traumas, relationship challenges, or life transitions.
Know that each of us deserves the space to show up authentically and without judgment, to be truly seen and heard. You are welcome here; you and all the parts that make you uniquely you, including aspects that shine bright and ones hidden away, longing for attention. Two truths that inspire my work are that healing happens together & that you already have innate wisdom for wellbeing.
I'm trained in EMDR, a powerful tool that can help you adapt painful memories and alleviate their emotional impact, whether past traumas, relationship challenges, or life transitions.
Know that each of us deserves the space to show up authentically and without judgment, to be truly seen and heard. You are welcome here; you and all the parts that make you uniquely you, including aspects that shine bright and ones hidden away, longing for attention. Two truths that inspire my work are that healing happens together & that you already have innate wisdom for wellbeing.
(949) 203-7678 View (949) 203-7678
Photo of Sharon Chan - Sharon Chan,LMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharon Chan,LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Laguna Hills, CA 92653
I am trained in Attachment Focused EMDR.
Sharon has current openings in the office and through telehealth (if you reside in California). Is your teen struggling socially, emotionally, behaviorally, or with difficult thoughts? As a parent, are you overwhelmed by all of the demands of being a parent? Does your youth have a difficult time making friends or communicating with others? Is your child highly sensitive? Some teens have a difficult time managing their emotions and it may result in isolation, difficulty concentrating and/or other behaviors. I can help by providing support and guidance to help them to reach their goals.
I am trained in Attachment Focused EMDR.
Sharon has current openings in the office and through telehealth (if you reside in California). Is your teen struggling socially, emotionally, behaviorally, or with difficult thoughts? As a parent, are you overwhelmed by all of the demands of being a parent? Does your youth have a difficult time making friends or communicating with others? Is your child highly sensitive? Some teens have a difficult time managing their emotions and it may result in isolation, difficulty concentrating and/or other behaviors. I can help by providing support and guidance to help them to reach their goals.
(626) 658-3302 View (626) 658-3302
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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.