EMDR Therapists in Norwalk, CA

Photo of Lluvia Hetrick, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lluvia Hetrick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
I primarily use Mindfulness and Brainspotting as a modality for healing, though I am trained in EMDR, family systems, TF-CBT, DBT, and CBT.
My approach to therapy focuses on building the therapeutic relationship and supporting each client with an individualized treatment plan to support their needs. I am a trauma-focused therapist and believe presenting problems that bring people to therapy are rooted in earlier experiences. Brainspotting is a gentle yet effective neurobiological approach to treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, panic disorder, PTSD, attachment wounds, etc.
I primarily use Mindfulness and Brainspotting as a modality for healing, though I am trained in EMDR, family systems, TF-CBT, DBT, and CBT.
My approach to therapy focuses on building the therapeutic relationship and supporting each client with an individualized treatment plan to support their needs. I am a trauma-focused therapist and believe presenting problems that bring people to therapy are rooted in earlier experiences. Brainspotting is a gentle yet effective neurobiological approach to treat symptoms of anxiety, depression, panic disorder, PTSD, attachment wounds, etc.
(562) 539-2333 View (562) 539-2333
Photo of Barbara Hernandez, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650
My theoretical orientation is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing - EMDR.
I have been working in the field of social services for the past 20 years and as a therapist for the last 18 years. Now I have a group practice of over 15 Therapist helping me offer comprehensive services. I have been licensed as an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008 and as an Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2014. I currently work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents. I treat many issues, ranging from depression, anxiety, child behavioral problems and trauma. If you are looking for another treatment specialty, call the office and I can see which therapist can best server you,
My theoretical orientation is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy & Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing - EMDR.
I have been working in the field of social services for the past 20 years and as a therapist for the last 18 years. Now I have a group practice of over 15 Therapist helping me offer comprehensive services. I have been licensed as an Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist since 2008 and as an Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor since 2014. I currently work with individuals, couples, families and adolescents. I treat many issues, ranging from depression, anxiety, child behavioral problems and trauma. If you are looking for another treatment specialty, call the office and I can see which therapist can best server you,
(562) 362-3233 View (562) 362-3233
Photo of Nia A King, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nia A King
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
As a dedicated and empathetic licensed therapist trained in trauma-focused CBT, EMDR therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy.
The ideal client seeks self-actualization and improved self-relationships. They grapple with negative thoughts stemming from past experiences, hindering their growth. Their goal is to overcome these obstacles, forge their unique identity, and cultivate self-love. They yearn to break free from the shackles of self-doubt, embracing authenticity and inner harmony. By guiding them through trauma-focused CBT, Interpersonal Therapy and EMDR, I empower them to confront their past, reshape their narrative, and foster resilience. Ultimately, they aspire to lead fulfilling lives, grounded in self-acceptance and genuine connections.
As a dedicated and empathetic licensed therapist trained in trauma-focused CBT, EMDR therapy, and Interpersonal Therapy.
The ideal client seeks self-actualization and improved self-relationships. They grapple with negative thoughts stemming from past experiences, hindering their growth. Their goal is to overcome these obstacles, forge their unique identity, and cultivate self-love. They yearn to break free from the shackles of self-doubt, embracing authenticity and inner harmony. By guiding them through trauma-focused CBT, Interpersonal Therapy and EMDR, I empower them to confront their past, reshape their narrative, and foster resilience. Ultimately, they aspire to lead fulfilling lives, grounded in self-acceptance and genuine connections.
(562) 667-5615 View (562) 667-5615
Photo of Sharon Stines, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sharon Stines
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
My name is Sharon Stines and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified EMDR therapist. I specialize in trauma and abuse recovery. My primary modalities are attachment-based EMDR, Ego-State/Inner Family Systems/Inner Child and Schema Therapy. I am solution focused. I am also an addictions specialist. I offer my experience, skill set, and relationship to help clients meet their goals of abuse/trauma recovery, healing and freedom. Because I am a Christian, I also offer faith-based therapy for those interested in it. And, as a recovering alcoholic, I also offer addiction recovery counseling as well.
My name is Sharon Stines and I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and certified EMDR therapist. I specialize in trauma and abuse recovery. My primary modalities are attachment-based EMDR, Ego-State/Inner Family Systems/Inner Child and Schema Therapy. I am solution focused. I am also an addictions specialist. I offer my experience, skill set, and relationship to help clients meet their goals of abuse/trauma recovery, healing and freedom. Because I am a Christian, I also offer faith-based therapy for those interested in it. And, as a recovering alcoholic, I also offer addiction recovery counseling as well.
(562) 784-8374 View (562) 784-8374
Photo of Cristina Mendoza, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cristina Mendoza
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
My name is Cristina Mendoza, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am based in Fresno, California, and am available to work with clients in person and via telehealth. I work with adults who are struggling with trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, or adjustment issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy. Therapy is a very personal process so I want to be sure to utilize approaches that will best suit each individual client and their needs.
My name is Cristina Mendoza, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I am based in Fresno, California, and am available to work with clients in person and via telehealth. I work with adults who are struggling with trauma, grief and loss, anxiety, depression, or adjustment issues using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy. Therapy is a very personal process so I want to be sure to utilize approaches that will best suit each individual client and their needs.
(562) 620-5910 View (562) 620-5910
Photo of Trenye Black - Married to Navy Counseling Services, PhD, LMHC-QS, LPCC, LPC-S, NCC, Counselor
Married to Navy Counseling Services
Counselor, PhD, LMHC-QS, LPCC, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Not Accepting Clients- - - Dr. Black is accepting clients who are primarily interested in EMDR therapy with sprinkles of talk therapy. To experience our deepest recesses of joy and peace, we must first have the courage to face our fears. You've spent quite some time trying to redefine your life, but still falling short. You've committed so much of yourself to others, now it's time to commit to you! Whatever your situation, our goal is to help you find clarity, purpose, and strength.
Not Accepting Clients- - - Dr. Black is accepting clients who are primarily interested in EMDR therapy with sprinkles of talk therapy. To experience our deepest recesses of joy and peace, we must first have the courage to face our fears. You've spent quite some time trying to redefine your life, but still falling short. You've committed so much of yourself to others, now it's time to commit to you! Whatever your situation, our goal is to help you find clarity, purpose, and strength.
(904) 587-4806 View (904) 587-4806
Photo of Kenneth England, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kenneth England
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, EMDR and TRIP trauma therapies to help my clients move forward in life.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who has worked extensively with Anxiety, Addiction/Recovery and Trauma/PTSD for over 16 years. I have worked at high-quality substance abuse programs including the two historic programs: Cri-Help and Promises Malibu. This experience showed me that trauma therapy is a vital tool for many clients to move forward with their lives. I work to help clients find a better way to live their lives on a daily basis. I find that it is very important for patients to receive quality service, empathy and guidance in their life-changing decisions.
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing, EMDR and TRIP trauma therapies to help my clients move forward in life.
I am a licensed marriage and family therapist who has worked extensively with Anxiety, Addiction/Recovery and Trauma/PTSD for over 16 years. I have worked at high-quality substance abuse programs including the two historic programs: Cri-Help and Promises Malibu. This experience showed me that trauma therapy is a vital tool for many clients to move forward with their lives. I work to help clients find a better way to live their lives on a daily basis. I find that it is very important for patients to receive quality service, empathy and guidance in their life-changing decisions.
(818) 423-4804 View (818) 423-4804
Photo of Gianna Merriam, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gianna Merriam
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
I commonly utilize therapy modalities such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Parent-Child Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused CBT, and EMDR.
Hello! My name is Gianna Merriam, LCSW. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based. My areas of practice include working with children and families, individuals (all ages), and groups. I enjoy promoting use of self-compassion practices, functional communication and empathy to impact individual needs and relationships. Clients I typically work with can range from age 5-60. I have extensive experience working with school-aged children that receive IEP services; I am educated and able to support parents in navigating the school system as well as community based resources.
I commonly utilize therapy modalities such as Play Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Parent-Child Psychotherapy, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-Focused CBT, and EMDR.
Hello! My name is Gianna Merriam, LCSW. My therapeutic approach is person-centered, trauma-informed, and strength-based. My areas of practice include working with children and families, individuals (all ages), and groups. I enjoy promoting use of self-compassion practices, functional communication and empathy to impact individual needs and relationships. Clients I typically work with can range from age 5-60. I have extensive experience working with school-aged children that receive IEP services; I am educated and able to support parents in navigating the school system as well as community based resources.
(805) 793-1356 View (805) 793-1356
Photo of Marili Arellano Alvarez, MA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marili Arellano Alvarez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR therapy and the primary focus of my work integrates the AIP model and ego state “parts” work to help you understand your current and past experiences.
Hi, I'm Marili! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in California. My passion is helping adults and couples build meaningful connections and find their path to self-empowerment and growth. Growing up, I was the curious one, always asking questions and genuinely interested in the lives of others. This natural curiosity led me to therapy, where I could channel that passion into helping people gain deeper insights into their own lives.
I am trained in EMDR therapy and the primary focus of my work integrates the AIP model and ego state “parts” work to help you understand your current and past experiences.
Hi, I'm Marili! I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor based in California. My passion is helping adults and couples build meaningful connections and find their path to self-empowerment and growth. Growing up, I was the curious one, always asking questions and genuinely interested in the lives of others. This natural curiosity led me to therapy, where I could channel that passion into helping people gain deeper insights into their own lives.
(310) 421-2408 View (310) 421-2408
Photo of Maricela Moore, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maricela Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
Hello! It takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to seek therapy, so I'm glad you're here. My goal is to create a safe space to process your current challenges and help you build on your inherent strengths to create your unique path to wellness. I utilize highly effective evidence-based treatments such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy. I provide a safe and supportive environment to promote self-awareness, healing, and personal growth to reach your full potential.
Hello! It takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to seek therapy, so I'm glad you're here. My goal is to create a safe space to process your current challenges and help you build on your inherent strengths to create your unique path to wellness. I utilize highly effective evidence-based treatments such as EMDR, cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness, and person-centered therapy. I provide a safe and supportive environment to promote self-awareness, healing, and personal growth to reach your full potential.
(858) 780-4777 View (858) 780-4777
Photo of Tania Valtierra, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tania Valtierra
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
I also provide EMDR therapy as an alternative to traditional talk therapy.
As a Latina therapist my goal is to help first generation Latina women and women of color through their mental health healing journeys. My unique therapeutic approach is founded on creating a trusting, open, honest, and accepting environment for my clients. The women I have worked with share that through therapy they began to practice self-love, felt an increase in self-esteem, and identified unhealthy patterns in their life that helped promote change.
I also provide EMDR therapy as an alternative to traditional talk therapy.
As a Latina therapist my goal is to help first generation Latina women and women of color through their mental health healing journeys. My unique therapeutic approach is founded on creating a trusting, open, honest, and accepting environment for my clients. The women I have worked with share that through therapy they began to practice self-love, felt an increase in self-esteem, and identified unhealthy patterns in their life that helped promote change.
(562) 784-7580 View (562) 784-7580
Photo of Octavio Hernandez - Nova Mindset Counseling, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nova Mindset Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
Clients receive support through varies treatment modalities, including EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, and Triple P.
Nova Mindset Counseling was created and founded by Octavio Hernandez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. Nova Mindset was created with the purpose and belief that everybody can work on creating a new mindset, whether through repair or acceptance of your current state of mind. If you are currently struggling through low self-esteem, negative thoughts, repeating old, non-serving habits, or struggling with motivation, then perhaps Nova Mindset can assist with helping you find the missing piece to your shift in perspective.
Clients receive support through varies treatment modalities, including EMDR, TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, and Triple P.
Nova Mindset Counseling was created and founded by Octavio Hernandez, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with over 15 years of experience in the mental health field. Nova Mindset was created with the purpose and belief that everybody can work on creating a new mindset, whether through repair or acceptance of your current state of mind. If you are currently struggling through low self-esteem, negative thoughts, repeating old, non-serving habits, or struggling with motivation, then perhaps Nova Mindset can assist with helping you find the missing piece to your shift in perspective.
(562) 371-3976 View (562) 371-3976
Photo of Maria Guadalupe Anguiano, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Guadalupe Anguiano
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
Additionally, I enjoy using EMDR therapy in my practice.
When working with you, my goal is to provide a space where you feel safe, seen, and valued—where you can openly talk about whatever is on your min. My approach is relaxed and down-to-earth, as well as one that values empowering you to remind you of what you are capable of. Whether you're working through stress, managing ADHD, healing from past experiences, or just looking for more balance, I'm here to walk alongside you at your own pace. We'll focus on practical tools and ideas that fit into your life, giving you a chance to explore, grow, and make positive changes on your terms.
Additionally, I enjoy using EMDR therapy in my practice.
When working with you, my goal is to provide a space where you feel safe, seen, and valued—where you can openly talk about whatever is on your min. My approach is relaxed and down-to-earth, as well as one that values empowering you to remind you of what you are capable of. Whether you're working through stress, managing ADHD, healing from past experiences, or just looking for more balance, I'm here to walk alongside you at your own pace. We'll focus on practical tools and ideas that fit into your life, giving you a chance to explore, grow, and make positive changes on your terms.
(619) 975-2918 View (619) 975-2918
Photo of Jannie Martinez, LMFT, CEDS, CCTP-II, C-DBT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jannie Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CEDS, CCTP-II, C-DBT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650  (Online Only)
I am a Latina Therapist that specializes in Anxiety/Mood, Eating disorders, & Trauma related disorders, who is culturally sensitive and provides compassionate, holistic and trauma-informed care. Part of my style in providing therapeutic care, is utilizing an integrative and holistic approach as I believe there is "no one size fits all." I believe that the you are the expert, so I do my best to listen to what your needs are and I do my best to know what will help accomplish your goals. I will guide you in learning new tools to better manage outside.
I am a Latina Therapist that specializes in Anxiety/Mood, Eating disorders, & Trauma related disorders, who is culturally sensitive and provides compassionate, holistic and trauma-informed care. Part of my style in providing therapeutic care, is utilizing an integrative and holistic approach as I believe there is "no one size fits all." I believe that the you are the expert, so I do my best to listen to what your needs are and I do my best to know what will help accomplish your goals. I will guide you in learning new tools to better manage outside.
(562) 457-6963 View (562) 457-6963
Photo of Izette Z Aragon, DSW, LCSW, LPCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Izette Z Aragon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW, LPCC
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
You are the expert on your life. I am here to help empower and educate you so that you reach a place of healing. We achieve this together! I provide a neutral and safe space for you to process your thoughts and feelings and use evidence-based interventions to meet your needs.
You are the expert on your life. I am here to help empower and educate you so that you reach a place of healing. We achieve this together! I provide a neutral and safe space for you to process your thoughts and feelings and use evidence-based interventions to meet your needs.
(562) 521-8792 View (562) 521-8792
Photo of Rachel Carey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Carey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
Life can be difficult, and we can all use some support sometimes. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe place where we can collaboratively develop goals that are important to you. I have experience working with people who are facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship struggles, trauma symptoms, grief, and more. My approach involves integrating evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, and ACT. Additionally, Mindfulness and attention paid to relevant past experiences/relationships can also be helpful. Together we can determine a path that makes sense to you as the client.
Life can be difficult, and we can all use some support sometimes. My goal as a therapist is to provide a safe place where we can collaboratively develop goals that are important to you. I have experience working with people who are facing depression, anxiety, life transitions, relationship struggles, trauma symptoms, grief, and more. My approach involves integrating evidence-based therapies, including CBT, DBT, and ACT. Additionally, Mindfulness and attention paid to relevant past experiences/relationships can also be helpful. Together we can determine a path that makes sense to you as the client.
(562) 566-3869 View (562) 566-3869
Photo of Barbara Hernandez - Aragon & Hernandez Social Services, Inc, MFT's, LCSW's, MSW's, MA's
Aragon & Hernandez Social Services, Inc
MFT's, LCSW's, MSW's, MA's
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650
Our agency is comprised of Licensed Clinicians, Associates, and Trainees, who offer an array of services, including counseling, training, and consultation. Our most notable service is our counseling program. Our experience and expertise allow us to offer effective, low-cost, community mental health services (counseling). We offer services to children, adults, couples, and families on a sliding scale (reduced fee). --- Se Habla Espanol - Llame para mas informacion.
Our agency is comprised of Licensed Clinicians, Associates, and Trainees, who offer an array of services, including counseling, training, and consultation. Our most notable service is our counseling program. Our experience and expertise allow us to offer effective, low-cost, community mental health services (counseling). We offer services to children, adults, couples, and families on a sliding scale (reduced fee). --- Se Habla Espanol - Llame para mas informacion.
(562) 278-8138 x1005 View (562) 278-8138 x1005
Photo of Janet Ambriz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet Ambriz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or just stuck? Are you having trouble setting boundaries, communicating your needs or prioritizing yourself? Therapy could be the perfect space for you to heal, grow and improve your life and relationships. I am passionate about helping you on that journey and providing care for your unique needs. You too can gain an understanding of your feelings, learn to cope with difficult situations, heal from past and current conflicts and improve relationships.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or just stuck? Are you having trouble setting boundaries, communicating your needs or prioritizing yourself? Therapy could be the perfect space for you to heal, grow and improve your life and relationships. I am passionate about helping you on that journey and providing care for your unique needs. You too can gain an understanding of your feelings, learn to cope with difficult situations, heal from past and current conflicts and improve relationships.
(562) 262-5098 View (562) 262-5098
Photo of Hussain Johnee Elhaouli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hussain Johnee Elhaouli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Norwalk, CA 90650
Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, interrelation issues, or any of the complexities of life, therapy can be a non-judgmental space for reflection and vulnerability. Finding the right fit to help you explore these internal, interpersonal, or sociocultural factors can be a challenge, and I want to meet you where you're at, then help you get where you’d like to go. My focus is building a strong therapeutic relationship together and having an affirming space for you to explore your identity, experiences, and emotions.
Whether you’re dealing with depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, interrelation issues, or any of the complexities of life, therapy can be a non-judgmental space for reflection and vulnerability. Finding the right fit to help you explore these internal, interpersonal, or sociocultural factors can be a challenge, and I want to meet you where you're at, then help you get where you’d like to go. My focus is building a strong therapeutic relationship together and having an affirming space for you to explore your identity, experiences, and emotions.
(626) 382-7923 View (626) 382-7923
Photo of Milcah Valiente, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Milcah Valiente
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Norwalk, CA 90650
From a child, I have always been interested in people's stories. Where they came from, who they were connected to, and what happened to them, which led me to the work of mental health. Within my clinical practice, I feel I am a holder of stories. Through listening and offering compassion while people tell their stories, I try to help them find hope and healing within the retelling. I feel comfortable working with a diverse clientele. Telehealth has afforded me the ability to see individuals from across both Nevada and California. I enjoy working with adults through telehealth and children in person.
From a child, I have always been interested in people's stories. Where they came from, who they were connected to, and what happened to them, which led me to the work of mental health. Within my clinical practice, I feel I am a holder of stories. Through listening and offering compassion while people tell their stories, I try to help them find hope and healing within the retelling. I feel comfortable working with a diverse clientele. Telehealth has afforded me the ability to see individuals from across both Nevada and California. I enjoy working with adults through telehealth and children in person.
(909) 487-8693 View (909) 487-8693
1
EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.