EMDR Therapists in Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA

Photo of Lyndsey Doolen, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lyndsey Doolen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036
I am trained in EMDR and I'm neurodiversity, non monogamy, kink, SWer, and body liberation affirming.
I'm a therapist because therapy saved my life. Through that lived experience, and with education and training, I help clients improve relationships (with themselves and others), exploring a variety of issues like trauma, gender, people-pleasing, OCD, boundaries, and self-worth. My clients are thoughtful folks who have done the best they can on their own and are looking for additional support. They seek to expand their perspective, to feel differently in the world, and want lasting change. Together we'll create that change, and I firmly believe in your inherent worth, power, and self-determination to facilitate the shift you seek.
I am trained in EMDR and I'm neurodiversity, non monogamy, kink, SWer, and body liberation affirming.
I'm a therapist because therapy saved my life. Through that lived experience, and with education and training, I help clients improve relationships (with themselves and others), exploring a variety of issues like trauma, gender, people-pleasing, OCD, boundaries, and self-worth. My clients are thoughtful folks who have done the best they can on their own and are looking for additional support. They seek to expand their perspective, to feel differently in the world, and want lasting change. Together we'll create that change, and I firmly believe in your inherent worth, power, and self-determination to facilitate the shift you seek.
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Photo of Lauren Steffel, PsyD, Psychologist
Lauren Steffel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
18 Endorsed
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
Are you looking for an active, evidence-based approach to address trauma, overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or addiction? If you feel stuck in sadness, fear, worry, or shame, we will use proven techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness to not just reduce your symptoms, but help you build a life worth living. Together, we will identify and understand beliefs or patterns of response that hold you back. With compassion and humor, I will help you stop avoiding, face your fears, and live according to the values and goals that matter most to you. I am licensed in CA (30891), NY (021345), VA (0810008541) and FL (TPPY1954).
Are you looking for an active, evidence-based approach to address trauma, overwhelming emotions, anxiety, or addiction? If you feel stuck in sadness, fear, worry, or shame, we will use proven techniques from CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, and mindfulness to not just reduce your symptoms, but help you build a life worth living. Together, we will identify and understand beliefs or patterns of response that hold you back. With compassion and humor, I will help you stop avoiding, face your fears, and live according to the values and goals that matter most to you. I am licensed in CA (30891), NY (021345), VA (0810008541) and FL (TPPY1954).
(310) 904-6013 View (310) 904-6013
Photo of Suzie (Sujin) Jeon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzie (Sujin) Jeon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90019
I offer EMDR, mindfulness, relational psychodynamic models of working through trauma and mental health issues.
My name is Suzie and I am a trauma informed licensed clinical social worker. I specialize in trauma work, identity issues, children of immigrant issues, immigrant issues, relationship challenges, inter-generational trauma, anxiety and depression in adults, and couples. I am a first generation Korean-America therapist with a sense of humor, and an appreciation for play and creativity: we’ll work together to build a connection and bring out your intrinsic strengths by practicing self compassion.
I offer EMDR, mindfulness, relational psychodynamic models of working through trauma and mental health issues.
My name is Suzie and I am a trauma informed licensed clinical social worker. I specialize in trauma work, identity issues, children of immigrant issues, immigrant issues, relationship challenges, inter-generational trauma, anxiety and depression in adults, and couples. I am a first generation Korean-America therapist with a sense of humor, and an appreciation for play and creativity: we’ll work together to build a connection and bring out your intrinsic strengths by practicing self compassion.
(213) 583-4158 View (213) 583-4158
Photo of Melinda Andres, MA, AMFT, CPT, ADHDCCP, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Melinda Andres
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CPT, ADHDCCP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
Hi! Thank you for reading my bio. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist that is certified in treating trauma and ADHD using different modalities including EMDR. I also provide treatment for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), anxiety, anger, depression, and marital/premarital counseling. It is through life experiences that we can gain wisdom. The key is managing the negative experiences in a healthy way, while maintaining peace and faith throughout life’s difficult situations. My approach begins at the root cause of the symptom- working backwards which leads to healing through self-compassion.
Hi! Thank you for reading my bio. I am an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist that is certified in treating trauma and ADHD using different modalities including EMDR. I also provide treatment for Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs), anxiety, anger, depression, and marital/premarital counseling. It is through life experiences that we can gain wisdom. The key is managing the negative experiences in a healthy way, while maintaining peace and faith throughout life’s difficult situations. My approach begins at the root cause of the symptom- working backwards which leads to healing through self-compassion.
(209) 682-0311 View (209) 682-0311
Photo of Dena Schwimmer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dena Schwimmer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036
I am an EMDR Trauma and Flash Technique Therapist who believes in creating a collaborative space for healing, exploration, and confronting the obstacles that block your path to peace, creativity and joy. Many people know their life story yet become disillusioned when the change they seek is not manifesting in their lives. EMDR and Flash takes a unique approach utilizing the somatic experience for a total body, mind and soul/spirit connection and healing. Are you ready to explore what is keeping you from your life purpose? Let's talk!
I am an EMDR Trauma and Flash Technique Therapist who believes in creating a collaborative space for healing, exploration, and confronting the obstacles that block your path to peace, creativity and joy. Many people know their life story yet become disillusioned when the change they seek is not manifesting in their lives. EMDR and Flash takes a unique approach utilizing the somatic experience for a total body, mind and soul/spirit connection and healing. Are you ready to explore what is keeping you from your life purpose? Let's talk!
(323) 694-3173 View (323) 694-3173
Photo of Lucy Drew, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lucy Drew
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036
Are you battling anxiety, PTSD, or chronic stress? Struggling with autoimmune conditions or feeling disconnected from yourself? As an EMDR-certified therapist, I offer a transformative approach to healing. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a groundbreaking, evidence-based therapy that can rapidly resolve trauma and negative beliefs, alleviate anxiety and depression, boost self-esteem and confidence, and address physical symptoms of stress.
Are you battling anxiety, PTSD, or chronic stress? Struggling with autoimmune conditions or feeling disconnected from yourself? As an EMDR-certified therapist, I offer a transformative approach to healing. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a groundbreaking, evidence-based therapy that can rapidly resolve trauma and negative beliefs, alleviate anxiety and depression, boost self-esteem and confidence, and address physical symptoms of stress.
(310) 626-0719 View (310) 626-0719
Photo of Hilary Curwen, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hilary Curwen
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036
I am EMDR trained and offer this as an alternative/addition to talk therapy.
I work with clients in a trusting, supportive space — helping individuals and couples fully explore the present by identifying triggers from their past. Together, we explore relationships patterns and behavior that are no longer serving you, and help to create healthier ways forward through a holistic, collaborative approach. I specialize in narcissistic abuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, dating, codependency, grief, and life transitions; and I approach therapy with empathy, humor, and respect for each client’s individual needs. My role is to help you create a greater sense of well-being and self-love.
I am EMDR trained and offer this as an alternative/addition to talk therapy.
I work with clients in a trusting, supportive space — helping individuals and couples fully explore the present by identifying triggers from their past. Together, we explore relationships patterns and behavior that are no longer serving you, and help to create healthier ways forward through a holistic, collaborative approach. I specialize in narcissistic abuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, self-esteem, dating, codependency, grief, and life transitions; and I approach therapy with empathy, humor, and respect for each client’s individual needs. My role is to help you create a greater sense of well-being and self-love.
(323) 443-7266 View (323) 443-7266
Photo of Lauren Smith, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lauren Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036
I combine humanistic approaches with evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
The foundation of my therapeutic practice includes meeting clients with empathy, warmth, and authenticity. I strive to help clients gain insight around the ways that the past impacts the present, develop tools to navigate life mindfully, and build towards their vision of a life worth living. I focus on developing a collaborative relationship with clients in which they feel validated, respected, and honored in their own unique journey in life. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to begin the process of personal exploration and growth.
I combine humanistic approaches with evidence-based practices, including CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
The foundation of my therapeutic practice includes meeting clients with empathy, warmth, and authenticity. I strive to help clients gain insight around the ways that the past impacts the present, develop tools to navigate life mindfully, and build towards their vision of a life worth living. I focus on developing a collaborative relationship with clients in which they feel validated, respected, and honored in their own unique journey in life. My goal is to provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to begin the process of personal exploration and growth.
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Photo of Jane Reardon, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jane Reardon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036
If you're having difficulty navigating some of your relationships and feel stuck in certain aspects of your life, let's explore what's holding you back . Through a spontaneous and highly interactive therapeutic relationship, you'll discover correlations between your personal history, any traumatic events and your present reality. Combining EMDR, positive psychology and specific strategies to re-direct your neural pathways, I'd like to help you separate what was from what is, and where you'd like to be, so you can stop repeating destructive patterns and become available to live the life you love.
If you're having difficulty navigating some of your relationships and feel stuck in certain aspects of your life, let's explore what's holding you back . Through a spontaneous and highly interactive therapeutic relationship, you'll discover correlations between your personal history, any traumatic events and your present reality. Combining EMDR, positive psychology and specific strategies to re-direct your neural pathways, I'd like to help you separate what was from what is, and where you'd like to be, so you can stop repeating destructive patterns and become available to live the life you love.
(323) 314-1509 View (323) 314-1509
Photo of Karyl Draper, LCSW, MSW, BSN, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karyl Draper
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BSN
Verified Verified
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036
I believe psychotherapy is a mutual journey between the therapist and the client. Though the waters can be rough, the adventure can be exciting and rewarding. It is an opportunity for the client to create a different way of being in the world and discover new narratives of their personal story. Whether depression, addiction, relational, or crisis, we will unpack the problem and find a solution. Specialized in trauma work with mindfulness and EMDR.
I believe psychotherapy is a mutual journey between the therapist and the client. Though the waters can be rough, the adventure can be exciting and rewarding. It is an opportunity for the client to create a different way of being in the world and discover new narratives of their personal story. Whether depression, addiction, relational, or crisis, we will unpack the problem and find a solution. Specialized in trauma work with mindfulness and EMDR.
(323) 844-0227 View (323) 844-0227
Photo of Geri-Lynn Cesar, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Geri-Lynn Cesar
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
In addition, I am trained in EMDR.
I am currently only providing telehealth services. I work with individuals, couples, and families to pay witness to and overcome the traumas and difficulties in their lives. My aim to empower and provide support to those who have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship stress, and chronic illness.
In addition, I am trained in EMDR.
I am currently only providing telehealth services. I work with individuals, couples, and families to pay witness to and overcome the traumas and difficulties in their lives. My aim to empower and provide support to those who have anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, relationship stress, and chronic illness.
(818) 722-6426 View (818) 722-6426
Photo of Misha Elder - Mindful Health Solutions, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mindful Health Solutions
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036
I practice general psychology and works with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, prenatal and postpartum issues, anger, parenting challenges, and couples issues. I also have a concentrated interest in the family of origin trauma.
I practice general psychology and works with clients who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, prenatal and postpartum issues, anger, parenting challenges, and couples issues. I also have a concentrated interest in the family of origin trauma.
(323) 529-0824 View (323) 529-0824
Photo of Caitlin J. Buys, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Caitlin J. Buys
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
Miracle Mile, Los Angeles, CA 90036  (Online Only)
Do you ever feel like your life is moving too fast? Do you feel like your emotions or thoughts are running your daily life? Are you looking for a stronger connection with yourself, your mind, your body, your emotions, and others around you? I can help, I take the time to get to know each individual with a focus on building a trusting therapeutic relationship. Together, we can identify the challenging life moments that have sparked your courage to seek support. We will work on nurturing your strengths, increasing resiliency, and creating opportunities for self-discovery and growth.
Do you ever feel like your life is moving too fast? Do you feel like your emotions or thoughts are running your daily life? Are you looking for a stronger connection with yourself, your mind, your body, your emotions, and others around you? I can help, I take the time to get to know each individual with a focus on building a trusting therapeutic relationship. Together, we can identify the challenging life moments that have sparked your courage to seek support. We will work on nurturing your strengths, increasing resiliency, and creating opportunities for self-discovery and growth.
(310) 872-5149 View (310) 872-5149

Online Therapists

Photo of Erin Elizabeth Powers, MA
Erin Elizabeth Powers
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042
I am an Associate Therapist with a Master's in Counseling, certification in Expressive and Creative Arts, and EMDR certification.
I believe that we all have the capacity to heal, despite any adversity we have faced. I hold an understanding that trauma is often at the root of unresolved issues and I provide a safe space to unpack this. I have experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds, including those experiencing anxiety and co-occurring health issues impacting mental health.I enjoy incorporating mindfulness, expressive arts, and other holistic modalities into my sessions and will provide resources for you to utilize in everyday life. As Carl Jung states, "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become".
I am an Associate Therapist with a Master's in Counseling, certification in Expressive and Creative Arts, and EMDR certification.
I believe that we all have the capacity to heal, despite any adversity we have faced. I hold an understanding that trauma is often at the root of unresolved issues and I provide a safe space to unpack this. I have experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds, including those experiencing anxiety and co-occurring health issues impacting mental health.I enjoy incorporating mindfulness, expressive arts, and other holistic modalities into my sessions and will provide resources for you to utilize in everyday life. As Carl Jung states, "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become".
(323) 645-1821 View (323) 645-1821
Photo of Angela L. Belleville, LMHC, LPCC, Counselor
Angela L. Belleville
Counselor, LMHC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
But specific treatments are- Cognitive Processing Therapy, EMDR, CBT, and Exposure- with mountains of research showing their effectiveness.
I specialize in trauma &PTSD in adults. I also offer supervision, training and consultation. PTSD is a hidden wound that can hijack the mind and body. People often express deep feelings of shame, guilt, fear, sadness, anger, intrusive thoughts, feeling on guard, feeling distant from the joys in life, struggling with esteem, relationships and trust, a sense of profound "stuckness" accompanied by a disbelief that things could change or get better. Some have tried therapy for years with minimal relief from PTSD. For others this is their first time addressing their trauma. A life without PTSD seems unreachable...but it's not.
But specific treatments are- Cognitive Processing Therapy, EMDR, CBT, and Exposure- with mountains of research showing their effectiveness.
I specialize in trauma &PTSD in adults. I also offer supervision, training and consultation. PTSD is a hidden wound that can hijack the mind and body. People often express deep feelings of shame, guilt, fear, sadness, anger, intrusive thoughts, feeling on guard, feeling distant from the joys in life, struggling with esteem, relationships and trust, a sense of profound "stuckness" accompanied by a disbelief that things could change or get better. Some have tried therapy for years with minimal relief from PTSD. For others this is their first time addressing their trauma. A life without PTSD seems unreachable...but it's not.
(978) 310-0628 View (978) 310-0628
Photo of Leo Hernandez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leo Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90042  (Online Only)
I provide trauma informed care and utilize EMDR, CBT/TF-CBT and Seeking Safety therapeutic modalities in addition to mindfulness, narrative and affirmative therapy techniques.
As a first-generation Spanish-speaking Mexican American I bring understanding to the struggle that comes with navigating generational trauma and cultural and sexual identity. I am aware of how cultural and sociopolitical factors impact our sense of well-being and relationships. Together we can work on overcoming the problems that adversely impact your life. We can also work on healing emotional wounds that may be keeping you stuck from moving forward. I will empower your journey as you cultivate better relationships, foster a happier sense of self and learn to embrace all aspects of your identity.
I provide trauma informed care and utilize EMDR, CBT/TF-CBT and Seeking Safety therapeutic modalities in addition to mindfulness, narrative and affirmative therapy techniques.
As a first-generation Spanish-speaking Mexican American I bring understanding to the struggle that comes with navigating generational trauma and cultural and sexual identity. I am aware of how cultural and sociopolitical factors impact our sense of well-being and relationships. Together we can work on overcoming the problems that adversely impact your life. We can also work on healing emotional wounds that may be keeping you stuck from moving forward. I will empower your journey as you cultivate better relationships, foster a happier sense of self and learn to embrace all aspects of your identity.
(747) 285-4054 View (747) 285-4054
Photo of Crystal D'Angora, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Crystal D'Angora
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
If you want more health and happiness EMDR, Somatics, and mindfulness based psychotherapy can help you to heal from the emotional distress associated with disturbing life experiences.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, or trapped in the chaos of negative thoughts, but don't know how to change? Are you unfulfilled in your relationships? These struggles may keep you awake at night, searching for a way to feel more overall peace and well being. Traumatic experiences make it difficult to break through pain and hopelessness, and may be leading you to self-destructive patterns. Your pain and emotional suffering is bearable when you share it.
If you want more health and happiness EMDR, Somatics, and mindfulness based psychotherapy can help you to heal from the emotional distress associated with disturbing life experiences.
Are you feeling stuck? Do you feel anxious, depressed, or trapped in the chaos of negative thoughts, but don't know how to change? Are you unfulfilled in your relationships? These struggles may keep you awake at night, searching for a way to feel more overall peace and well being. Traumatic experiences make it difficult to break through pain and hopelessness, and may be leading you to self-destructive patterns. Your pain and emotional suffering is bearable when you share it.
(818) 287-0832 View (818) 287-0832
Photo of Tom Henning, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tom Henning
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90034
I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques including EMDR, emotionally focused, somatic, and person-centered therapy.
You may feel stuck in a negative cycle: in a relationship, your career, or life in general. Perhaps you are dealing with trauma, or a difficult life transition such as divorce or bereavement, or you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. I'd like to help you make the changes you are looking for. I work with individuals, couples and families as they learn to cultivate healthy relationships and manage the stresses of modern-day life. Having raised a family while practicing law as a partner in a busy law firm, I have experienced the struggles and trade-offs in trying to maintain a work-family-personal life balance.
I employ a variety of therapeutic techniques including EMDR, emotionally focused, somatic, and person-centered therapy.
You may feel stuck in a negative cycle: in a relationship, your career, or life in general. Perhaps you are dealing with trauma, or a difficult life transition such as divorce or bereavement, or you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. I'd like to help you make the changes you are looking for. I work with individuals, couples and families as they learn to cultivate healthy relationships and manage the stresses of modern-day life. Having raised a family while practicing law as a partner in a busy law firm, I have experienced the struggles and trade-offs in trying to maintain a work-family-personal life balance.
(424) 500-8842 View (424) 500-8842
Photo of Violet Sarosi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Violet Sarosi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90026
We will most likely use a blend of EMDR, Brainspotting, narrative therapy, somatic work, and IFS/"parts work" to examine, untangle, and explore.
Welcome! Maybe you've found yourself here because you need help untangling something. Maybe you're carrying longstanding burdens; maybe those burdens aren't even yours to hold. If you are seeking holistic, intersectional, emotion focused, justice-oriented therapy, I'm here to assist you! I provide trauma and self-exploration therapy to adults, couples, and teenagers in a dynamic, compassionate container. I aim to instill self-understanding in my clients, and empower them to grow in places they've historically had to shrink.
We will most likely use a blend of EMDR, Brainspotting, narrative therapy, somatic work, and IFS/"parts work" to examine, untangle, and explore.
Welcome! Maybe you've found yourself here because you need help untangling something. Maybe you're carrying longstanding burdens; maybe those burdens aren't even yours to hold. If you are seeking holistic, intersectional, emotion focused, justice-oriented therapy, I'm here to assist you! I provide trauma and self-exploration therapy to adults, couples, and teenagers in a dynamic, compassionate container. I aim to instill self-understanding in my clients, and empower them to grow in places they've historically had to shrink.
(213) 863-1313 View (213) 863-1313
Photo of Lorren Comeaux, LPCC, Counselor
Lorren Comeaux
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90071  (Online Only)
I use EMDR, TfCBT, DBT, and a systems approach to therapy as well as integrating other treatments into my practice.
Hello, I'm Lorren, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I believe therapy is about honoring yourself and creating safety in loving and accepting yourself. Over the years, I have worked with all ages, and primary see adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.
I use EMDR, TfCBT, DBT, and a systems approach to therapy as well as integrating other treatments into my practice.
Hello, I'm Lorren, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I believe therapy is about honoring yourself and creating safety in loving and accepting yourself. Over the years, I have worked with all ages, and primary see adults in their 20s, 30s, and 40s.
(562) 784-7725 View (562) 784-7725

See more therapy options for Miracle Mile, Los Angeles

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.