EMDR Therapists in National City, CA

Photo of Sara Bowerman, LCP, Psychologist
Sara Bowerman
Psychologist, LCP
Verified Verified
National City, CA 91950
In my therapy with clients, I use goal setting, developing coping skills, DBT, CBT, and am beginning to incorporate EMDR techniques as well into my practice.
Hi! I’m Sara. My name is Sara Bowerman and I’m a licensed psychologist in California. My approach to clients is to create a positive, supportive relationship to help you identify and reach your goals for growth, change, and achieving the new directions you desire in your life. I’m comfortable treating women, men, LGBTQIA+, varied age ranges, people from varied ethnicities or cultures, and addressing the struggles my clients are currently working on. I enjoy creating an environment that is calm, supportive, and empathic and creating a space for my clients to begin to grow and pursue their goals and objectives in their life.
In my therapy with clients, I use goal setting, developing coping skills, DBT, CBT, and am beginning to incorporate EMDR techniques as well into my practice.
Hi! I’m Sara. My name is Sara Bowerman and I’m a licensed psychologist in California. My approach to clients is to create a positive, supportive relationship to help you identify and reach your goals for growth, change, and achieving the new directions you desire in your life. I’m comfortable treating women, men, LGBTQIA+, varied age ranges, people from varied ethnicities or cultures, and addressing the struggles my clients are currently working on. I enjoy creating an environment that is calm, supportive, and empathic and creating a space for my clients to begin to grow and pursue their goals and objectives in their life.
(760) 642-5284 View (760) 642-5284
Photo of Nancy Deutsch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Deutsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
National City, CA 91950
I have discovered that EMDR is a wonderful tool to facilitate this process.
Life can be challenging and we all have experienced loss, disappointments and trauma, both large and small. These may have caused us to feel depressed or anxious or lead to feeling of inadequacy. In order to overcome these self- defeating, life - limiting thoughts and feelings, and to grow emotionally, we all need a guiding hand to teach us how to heal and grow. My goal is to provide you with that guiding hand within a safe, respectful and nurturing environment, where you are free to express your feelings
I have discovered that EMDR is a wonderful tool to facilitate this process.
Life can be challenging and we all have experienced loss, disappointments and trauma, both large and small. These may have caused us to feel depressed or anxious or lead to feeling of inadequacy. In order to overcome these self- defeating, life - limiting thoughts and feelings, and to grow emotionally, we all need a guiding hand to teach us how to heal and grow. My goal is to provide you with that guiding hand within a safe, respectful and nurturing environment, where you are free to express your feelings
(619) 295-1175 View (619) 295-1175
Photo of Mary Jordan, MA, EMDR, EMMHS, CMHS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Mary Jordan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, EMDR, EMMHS, CMHS, AMFT
Verified Verified
National City, CA 91950
I am a Certified EMDR therapist.
HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN THE STRONG ONE AND FEEL THE PRESSURE TO KEEP SMILING WHEN THINGS ARE AWFUL? DO YOU CHOOSE TO STRUGGLE IN SILENCE BECAUSE YOU BELIEVE THAT TALKING ABOUT YOUR PROBLEMS IS A BURDEN TO OTHERS? ARE YOU TIRED OF THE SAME UNCOMFORTABLE OR EXCRUCIATING PATTERNS REPLAYING IN YOUR LIFE, CAUSING DISRUPTION IN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS? Do you love too hard? Unsure of where you belong; emotionally, culturally, racially, sexually? Are you experiencing betrayal? Feeling embarrassed. Stuck? As a 1st generation FIlipinx American with lived experience in multicultural relationships in Western society, I can help. Experience matters.
I am a Certified EMDR therapist.
HAVE YOU ALWAYS BEEN THE STRONG ONE AND FEEL THE PRESSURE TO KEEP SMILING WHEN THINGS ARE AWFUL? DO YOU CHOOSE TO STRUGGLE IN SILENCE BECAUSE YOU BELIEVE THAT TALKING ABOUT YOUR PROBLEMS IS A BURDEN TO OTHERS? ARE YOU TIRED OF THE SAME UNCOMFORTABLE OR EXCRUCIATING PATTERNS REPLAYING IN YOUR LIFE, CAUSING DISRUPTION IN YOUR RELATIONSHIPS? Do you love too hard? Unsure of where you belong; emotionally, culturally, racially, sexually? Are you experiencing betrayal? Feeling embarrassed. Stuck? As a 1st generation FIlipinx American with lived experience in multicultural relationships in Western society, I can help. Experience matters.
(949) 529-0966 View (949) 529-0966
Photo of JoAnn Scott, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
JoAnn Scott
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
National City, CA 91950
Hi, my name is JoAnn Scott. My mission as a therapist is to initially help people develop hope, then help them discover their best selves during our therapeutic journey. I do this using individualized therapeutic techniques that are best suited for the challenges and concerns that you have identified as most important. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, master's Level Registered Addiction Specialist, Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
Hi, my name is JoAnn Scott. My mission as a therapist is to initially help people develop hope, then help them discover their best selves during our therapeutic journey. I do this using individualized therapeutic techniques that are best suited for the challenges and concerns that you have identified as most important. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, master's Level Registered Addiction Specialist, Board Certified Diplomate in Clinical Social Work, and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
(650) 788-1794 View (650) 788-1794
Photo of Cory Anderson - Integrity Counseling Group, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Integrity Counseling Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
National City, CA 91950
Are you tired of repeating the same cycle, whether it’s addiction, depression, anxiety, or infidelity? Our skilled and compassionate therapists are here to help you finally break free, so you can live fully and joyfully.
Are you tired of repeating the same cycle, whether it’s addiction, depression, anxiety, or infidelity? Our skilled and compassionate therapists are here to help you finally break free, so you can live fully and joyfully.
(619) 378-3988 View (619) 378-3988
Photo of Kathy J Gilbert, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kathy J Gilbert
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
National City, CA 91950
I have been a psychotherapist for over 38 years. have worked with all ages of the life-cycle. I have been a care-giver and daughter of a parent who had a diagnosis of Alzheimers. I have been married for 37 years, and am the parent of 2 adult children. My lived and professional experiences , make me qualified to provide clients with a treatment plan and services specifically suited to meet their individual needs. I also limit the number of clients that I work with, so that I can be responsive and available for whatever support that may be needed.
I have been a psychotherapist for over 38 years. have worked with all ages of the life-cycle. I have been a care-giver and daughter of a parent who had a diagnosis of Alzheimers. I have been married for 37 years, and am the parent of 2 adult children. My lived and professional experiences , make me qualified to provide clients with a treatment plan and services specifically suited to meet their individual needs. I also limit the number of clients that I work with, so that I can be responsive and available for whatever support that may be needed.
(619) 574-0677 View (619) 574-0677
Photo of Theresa Mary Comito, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Theresa Mary Comito
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
National City, CA 91950
I will provide a supportive, empathic and non-judgmental space for you to explore problematic relationship styles, trauma, abuse, and loss in order to heal the past and promote a feeling of greater personal freedom. My therapeutic approach emphasizes "here and now" relationships, embracing your strengths and getting in touch with mind, body and spirit.
I will provide a supportive, empathic and non-judgmental space for you to explore problematic relationship styles, trauma, abuse, and loss in order to heal the past and promote a feeling of greater personal freedom. My therapeutic approach emphasizes "here and now" relationships, embracing your strengths and getting in touch with mind, body and spirit.
(619) 346-7481 View (619) 346-7481
Photo of Janis Alexa Smith, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janis Alexa Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
National City, CA 91950
Hi there, I'm Janis Alexa! Congratulations on taking this first step toward becoming a healthier version of yourself and living the best life possible. Life is sometimes tough, and I understand that when trying to cope with anxiety, depression, heartbreak, and relationship struggles, this can feel overwhelming. In this season of life, you don’t have to be alone, and I can help you with those feelings because I am a therapist who has experience in helping others with what you may be facing right now. There is hope, and you can start your new journey for real and lasting change today.
Hi there, I'm Janis Alexa! Congratulations on taking this first step toward becoming a healthier version of yourself and living the best life possible. Life is sometimes tough, and I understand that when trying to cope with anxiety, depression, heartbreak, and relationship struggles, this can feel overwhelming. In this season of life, you don’t have to be alone, and I can help you with those feelings because I am a therapist who has experience in helping others with what you may be facing right now. There is hope, and you can start your new journey for real and lasting change today.
(805) 624-3649 View (805) 624-3649
Photo of Tatiana Anastasia Chircop Rollick, PhD, MA, MS, Psychologist
Tatiana Anastasia Chircop Rollick
Psychologist, PhD, MA, MS
Verified Verified
National City, CA 91950
Dr. Chircop-Rollick earned her B.A. in Counseling Psychology graduating Cuma Sum Luda from Hawaii Pacific University, and received her MA from Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. Dr. Chircop-Rollick completed an additional MS and a Dual PhD in Clinical Psychology and Industrial Psychology at California School of Professional Psych iSan Diego; She is published in peer-reviewed journals including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Supportive Psychotherapy, Phantom limb pain, PTSD, Chronic Back Pain utilizing multimodal telehealth Interventions.She spent 10 yers working for the correctional Prison system with inpatient acute population
Dr. Chircop-Rollick earned her B.A. in Counseling Psychology graduating Cuma Sum Luda from Hawaii Pacific University, and received her MA from Pepperdine University in Malibu, CA. Dr. Chircop-Rollick completed an additional MS and a Dual PhD in Clinical Psychology and Industrial Psychology at California School of Professional Psych iSan Diego; She is published in peer-reviewed journals including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Supportive Psychotherapy, Phantom limb pain, PTSD, Chronic Back Pain utilizing multimodal telehealth Interventions.She spent 10 yers working for the correctional Prison system with inpatient acute population
(858) 358-3795 View (858) 358-3795

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Creston Davis - Creston Davis: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, LMFT, LAADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Creston Davis: Trauma, Anxiety, Depression
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910
I am a experienced trauma-informed therapist certified in EMDR and experience with counseling survivors of trauma and military related trauma.
If you are having challenges with trauma, anxiety, and depression, or keeping your mood stable, I can assist you with finding the right balance and solutions. Left untreated those feeling of hopelessness, sadness, loss of interest in activities can have a negative impact on your life. I work with people who have trauma, some have flashbacks, deep fear of trust and hypervigilance.
I am a experienced trauma-informed therapist certified in EMDR and experience with counseling survivors of trauma and military related trauma.
If you are having challenges with trauma, anxiety, and depression, or keeping your mood stable, I can assist you with finding the right balance and solutions. Left untreated those feeling of hopelessness, sadness, loss of interest in activities can have a negative impact on your life. I work with people who have trauma, some have flashbacks, deep fear of trust and hypervigilance.
(619) 677-6015 View (619) 677-6015
Photo of Nicole Ethridge, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Ethridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
In my practice, I utilize EMDR along with a personalized, multi-modal approach tailored to meet your unique needs and aspirations.
With seven years of experience in community mental health and crisis intervention under my belt, I'm here to be your partner in healing and growth. Life can be a rollercoaster, from feeling disconnected to battling anxiety, coping with depression, or dealing with the aftermath of trauma. But here's the beautiful part – you're not alone in this. Together, we'll navigate through these challenges, finding ways to build resilience and rediscover your inner strength. Taking that first step towards healing is courageous, and I'm here to provide the empathy and support you need every step of the way.
In my practice, I utilize EMDR along with a personalized, multi-modal approach tailored to meet your unique needs and aspirations.
With seven years of experience in community mental health and crisis intervention under my belt, I'm here to be your partner in healing and growth. Life can be a rollercoaster, from feeling disconnected to battling anxiety, coping with depression, or dealing with the aftermath of trauma. But here's the beautiful part – you're not alone in this. Together, we'll navigate through these challenges, finding ways to build resilience and rediscover your inner strength. Taking that first step towards healing is courageous, and I'm here to provide the empathy and support you need every step of the way.
(562) 620-5114 View (562) 620-5114
Photo of Susan Bolea, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Bolea
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92113  (Online Only)
The following modalities will be incorporated in our work together: Attachment, Arts Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Solutions-Focused, Gottman, Emotionally Focused, and Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Together we strive to understand the life events, health and relationship issues that have interrupted or sidelined you. I utilize “ah ha” provoking techniques to help you open up to your truth and recognize who you are at the present time. My background in literature, the arts and intuitive studies means that I call on metaphor and expressive arts to advance our therapeutic goals. Together we lay the groundwork for habits which specifically work for you and that will endure for a lifetime, honoring self-compassion and acceptance. My job is to establish security and space for you to relax during our exploration.
The following modalities will be incorporated in our work together: Attachment, Arts Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Mindfulness, Solutions-Focused, Gottman, Emotionally Focused, and Eye Movement and Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Together we strive to understand the life events, health and relationship issues that have interrupted or sidelined you. I utilize “ah ha” provoking techniques to help you open up to your truth and recognize who you are at the present time. My background in literature, the arts and intuitive studies means that I call on metaphor and expressive arts to advance our therapeutic goals. Together we lay the groundwork for habits which specifically work for you and that will endure for a lifetime, honoring self-compassion and acceptance. My job is to establish security and space for you to relax during our exploration.
(510) 257-9774 View (510) 257-9774
Photo of Alicia Millard, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Millard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92139
The most common theoretical approach used in my work is EMDR, CBT, solution-focused, and client-centered.
Hello, I'm Dr. Alicia Millard. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is building rapport, listening to the client, and guiding your healing process. My focus areas are PTSD, complex trauma, depression, life and career coaching, and substance use. Typically, I focus my work on adults, individuals, and teenagers aged 13-17 years old. I am most comfortable working with clients with trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, life transitions, career coaching, and relationship difficulties.
The most common theoretical approach used in my work is EMDR, CBT, solution-focused, and client-centered.
Hello, I'm Dr. Alicia Millard. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. My approach to therapy is building rapport, listening to the client, and guiding your healing process. My focus areas are PTSD, complex trauma, depression, life and career coaching, and substance use. Typically, I focus my work on adults, individuals, and teenagers aged 13-17 years old. I am most comfortable working with clients with trauma, substance use, anxiety, depression, life transitions, career coaching, and relationship difficulties.
(951) 337-4734 View (951) 337-4734
Photo of Karina Valdez, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karina Valdez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910
Through various modalities such as, but not limited to EMDR, TFCBT, CPT, CBT, a unique treatment plan is developed and goals are identified collaboratively.
I have created and founded La Verdad Therapy with the vision of reaching many under the embrace and guidance of truth. Truth can be perceived as a relative concept evaded by so many and held in the eye of the beholder. I have had the honor to witness the power of Truth in a transformative nature. Wisdom is not far by telling us that the Truth shall set you free. Truth baring requires courage, and courage requires vulnerability. I want to invite you to take the wildest journey you can imagine. A journey into yourself with open arms and ready to embrace the truth of who you were created to be.
Through various modalities such as, but not limited to EMDR, TFCBT, CPT, CBT, a unique treatment plan is developed and goals are identified collaboratively.
I have created and founded La Verdad Therapy with the vision of reaching many under the embrace and guidance of truth. Truth can be perceived as a relative concept evaded by so many and held in the eye of the beholder. I have had the honor to witness the power of Truth in a transformative nature. Wisdom is not far by telling us that the Truth shall set you free. Truth baring requires courage, and courage requires vulnerability. I want to invite you to take the wildest journey you can imagine. A journey into yourself with open arms and ready to embrace the truth of who you were created to be.
(858) 786-0872 View (858) 786-0872
Photo of Janet Carrasco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Carrasco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92113  (Online Only)
I’m trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of trauma recovery and anxiety.
I work with clients in helping them free themselves from their past, and into a healthy and productive present. I attain this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to fit your needs. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 17 years of experience. My clinical experience is working with adults and families. I use an eclectic therapy approach that incorporates a variety of therapeutic principles and philosophies. I tailor sessions to each individual's needs.
I’m trained in Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) for the treatment of trauma recovery and anxiety.
I work with clients in helping them free themselves from their past, and into a healthy and productive present. I attain this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to your concerns, and customizing a treatment plan to fit your needs. I am a bilingual Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 17 years of experience. My clinical experience is working with adults and families. I use an eclectic therapy approach that incorporates a variety of therapeutic principles and philosophies. I tailor sessions to each individual's needs.
(510) 288-2736 View (510) 288-2736
Photo of Marc J Davidoff, MFT, PsyD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marc J Davidoff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910
I work through different techniques including, CBT, Gestalt , systemic, solution focus, EMDR , attachment theory , existential and humanistic psychology.
I'm a bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist and psychologist. I work with children, teens, adults , couples and families. I believe that the human being is capable to change if he has the adequate tools. These tools can be found in therapy and other healthy environments. Soy un psicoterapeuta y psicologo bilingue y bicultural. Trabajo con ninios , adolescentes, adultos, parejas y familias. Creo que el ser humano es capaz de cambiar si tiene las herramientas adecuadas que puede encontrar a traves de la terapia y otros medios.
I work through different techniques including, CBT, Gestalt , systemic, solution focus, EMDR , attachment theory , existential and humanistic psychology.
I'm a bilingual and bicultural psychotherapist and psychologist. I work with children, teens, adults , couples and families. I believe that the human being is capable to change if he has the adequate tools. These tools can be found in therapy and other healthy environments. Soy un psicoterapeuta y psicologo bilingue y bicultural. Trabajo con ninios , adolescentes, adultos, parejas y familias. Creo que el ser humano es capaz de cambiar si tiene las herramientas adecuadas que puede encontrar a traves de la terapia y otros medios.
(858) 771-0994 View (858) 771-0994
Photo of Asia McCready, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Asia McCready
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
Whilst informality is a marker of my style, evidence-based practices such as EMDR, CBT, and Motivational interviewing guide my interventions.
Greetings! My name is Asia and I help adult individuals with a history of developmental (childhood) trauma repair attachment injuries and thrive in their present-day relationships. As a team, we collaborate to make sense of these experiences, develop a toolkit of adaptive skills, and establish a safe space to promote post-traumatic growth. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and individualized. You are the expert on your life, and I am here to challenge, guide and support you as you tread your therapeutic journey.
Whilst informality is a marker of my style, evidence-based practices such as EMDR, CBT, and Motivational interviewing guide my interventions.
Greetings! My name is Asia and I help adult individuals with a history of developmental (childhood) trauma repair attachment injuries and thrive in their present-day relationships. As a team, we collaborate to make sense of these experiences, develop a toolkit of adaptive skills, and establish a safe space to promote post-traumatic growth. My therapeutic style is warm, collaborative, and individualized. You are the expert on your life, and I am here to challenge, guide and support you as you tread your therapeutic journey.
(470) 592-8978 View (470) 592-8978
Photo of Eunice M. Jeremiah, MACP, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Eunice M. Jeremiah
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MACP, AMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910
Not accepting new clients
Sometimes life can be challenging, especially if we do not have the right skill set to deal with the issues life throws at us. My goal is to meet you where you are at and walk alongside you, while providing you with the safe space and support you need to work through your specific need. My clinical experience includes helping individuals learn to manage and overcome fear and anxiety, cope with bereavement, learn healthy emotional regulation strategies, resolve relationship problems, and more. I use prepare and enrich to help couples work through different issues in their relationship, and EMDR to help individuals process trauma.
Sometimes life can be challenging, especially if we do not have the right skill set to deal with the issues life throws at us. My goal is to meet you where you are at and walk alongside you, while providing you with the safe space and support you need to work through your specific need. My clinical experience includes helping individuals learn to manage and overcome fear and anxiety, cope with bereavement, learn healthy emotional regulation strategies, resolve relationship problems, and more. I use prepare and enrich to help couples work through different issues in their relationship, and EMDR to help individuals process trauma.
(619) 775-2905 View (619) 775-2905
Photo of Karely Garcia, AMFT, DVC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Karely Garcia
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, DVC
Verified Verified
Chula Vista, CA 91910  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I can help people by providing therapy sessions designed specifically for them. I provide counseling services to adolescents and adults with varied issues: anxiety, relational issues, cultural bias, anger management, and trauma. I am EMDR trained; an effective form of therapy for treating trauma, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
As a therapist, I can help people by providing therapy sessions designed specifically for them. I provide counseling services to adolescents and adults with varied issues: anxiety, relational issues, cultural bias, anger management, and trauma. I am EMDR trained; an effective form of therapy for treating trauma, including Post Traumatic Stress Disorder.
(619) 409-2235 View (619) 409-2235
Photo of Alessandra Snavely, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alessandra Snavely
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Diego, CA 92182  (Online Only)
My therapeutic toolbox includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), positive psychology, and a client-centered approach.
With nearly 9 years of dedicated experience in psychotherapy, I am passionate about supporting individuals, particularly youth, in navigating life's challenges and fostering healthier futures. My journey began with a profound desire to empower others through their struggles and transitions. My career has encompassed diverse settings including day centers for adults with severe mental illness, crisis shelters for youth, and community mental health services. For the past year, I have been privileged to work directly with clients in private practice.
My therapeutic toolbox includes Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), positive psychology, and a client-centered approach.
With nearly 9 years of dedicated experience in psychotherapy, I am passionate about supporting individuals, particularly youth, in navigating life's challenges and fostering healthier futures. My journey began with a profound desire to empower others through their struggles and transitions. My career has encompassed diverse settings including day centers for adults with severe mental illness, crisis shelters for youth, and community mental health services. For the past year, I have been privileged to work directly with clients in private practice.
(805) 723-2899 View (805) 723-2899

See more therapy options for National City

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.