EMDR Therapists in Pacific Palisades, CA
Bonnie Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR works with the root of the problem to overcome the painful memories and experiences that are keeping you stuck.
As an EMDR therapist, I have experienced successful outcomes for those who suffer from trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, disturbing memories, post traumatic stress, obsessive thinking, and many other emotional conditions. In the past, with more traditional therapy, these conditions were time-consuming to treat. EMDR is considered a breakthrough therapy because of its simplicity and the fact that it can bring lasting relief for most types of emotional distress. Traumatic experiences can have an unsettling effect on our mental and emotional health for years to come.
EMDR works with the root of the problem to overcome the painful memories and experiences that are keeping you stuck.
As an EMDR therapist, I have experienced successful outcomes for those who suffer from trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, disturbing memories, post traumatic stress, obsessive thinking, and many other emotional conditions. In the past, with more traditional therapy, these conditions were time-consuming to treat. EMDR is considered a breakthrough therapy because of its simplicity and the fact that it can bring lasting relief for most types of emotional distress. Traumatic experiences can have an unsettling effect on our mental and emotional health for years to come.
Deanna Gale Emad
Marriage & Family Therapist, Deanna, Emad, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
I specialize in trauma therapy and I am certified in EMDR and I work with many teens and children who are experiencing anxiety and stress.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California . I offer counseling to adults, couples, parenting support for families, teens, children and groups. I have over twenty-five years of experience in personal transformation and treatment. It is my passion to facilitate and support growth and healing in others. I have supported many Families, Couples and Individuals and Children going through challenging times as in Divorce, transitions, Loss and Trauma supporting my client in taking their next steps in living a more authentic, abundant and fulfilling life.
I specialize in trauma therapy and I am certified in EMDR and I work with many teens and children who are experiencing anxiety and stress.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California . I offer counseling to adults, couples, parenting support for families, teens, children and groups. I have over twenty-five years of experience in personal transformation and treatment. It is my passion to facilitate and support growth and healing in others. I have supported many Families, Couples and Individuals and Children going through challenging times as in Divorce, transitions, Loss and Trauma supporting my client in taking their next steps in living a more authentic, abundant and fulfilling life.
Alison Meredith Greiner
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
In addition, I am also providing EMDR therapy which is an effective trauma informed therapy for individuals looking to make lasting changes.
As a licensed clinical social worker who has been in practice for over 18 years, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients dealing with a variety of issues. Some of my particular interests and expertise include: adolescents and college age students as well as providing parenting support to parents with children of all ages. I also work with adults and couples dealing with issues such as: depression, anxiety, life transitions, career changes, communication issues, and parenting concerns.
In addition, I am also providing EMDR therapy which is an effective trauma informed therapy for individuals looking to make lasting changes.
As a licensed clinical social worker who has been in practice for over 18 years, I have had the privilege of working with a wide range of clients dealing with a variety of issues. Some of my particular interests and expertise include: adolescents and college age students as well as providing parenting support to parents with children of all ages. I also work with adults and couples dealing with issues such as: depression, anxiety, life transitions, career changes, communication issues, and parenting concerns.
Sarah Michael Novia
Counselor, MS, EdS, LPCC, BC-TMH
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 (Online Only)
I will guide you through healthier choices and safely lead you to discover and develop into your best self, supporting you with specific strategies like: thought/behavior adjustments, EMDR, boundary-setting, relationship building, structural organization, balancing, pattern-breaking, desensitization, effective coping skills, self-care, and humor.
Are you a high-performing female, who is feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Would you like to cut back on drinking or other maladaptive impulses? Let’s work together to improve your mental health using your strengths to adjust to stressors instead of engaging in negative behaviors. With my encouragement, you will learn to overcome or manage the issues you are untangling and move forward - where you deserve to be. Additionally, I have specializations in trauma, divorce mediation, grief, medication-assisted alcohol abatement, and the psychological aftermath of psychedelic experiences.
I will guide you through healthier choices and safely lead you to discover and develop into your best self, supporting you with specific strategies like: thought/behavior adjustments, EMDR, boundary-setting, relationship building, structural organization, balancing, pattern-breaking, desensitization, effective coping skills, self-care, and humor.
Are you a high-performing female, who is feeling anxious, depressed, or overwhelmed? Would you like to cut back on drinking or other maladaptive impulses? Let’s work together to improve your mental health using your strengths to adjust to stressors instead of engaging in negative behaviors. With my encouragement, you will learn to overcome or manage the issues you are untangling and move forward - where you deserve to be. Additionally, I have specializations in trauma, divorce mediation, grief, medication-assisted alcohol abatement, and the psychological aftermath of psychedelic experiences.
Do you struggle with trauma symptoms? Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Feeling dissociated? I believe trauma impacts more people than we know. I can help you overcome those trauma symptoms by providing somatic (body) based, EMDR and parts work therapies. For those who live out of CA, I offer trauma coaching sessions. In these sessions, you will discover coping strategies and resilience-building skills . The main goal in trauma coaching is to help you reconnect with yourself.
Do you struggle with trauma symptoms? Do you feel disconnected from yourself or others? Feeling dissociated? I believe trauma impacts more people than we know. I can help you overcome those trauma symptoms by providing somatic (body) based, EMDR and parts work therapies. For those who live out of CA, I offer trauma coaching sessions. In these sessions, you will discover coping strategies and resilience-building skills . The main goal in trauma coaching is to help you reconnect with yourself.
Carter Christian Wilkes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 (Online Only)
I am an EMDR practitioner and facilitate therapy with a Trauma-Focused and Attachment-based approach.
I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of criticism. By fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship, I aim to support you in gaining insight into your struggles and developing effective coping strategies. I integrate various therapeutic techniques and modalities tailored to your specific goals and preferences. Through collaborative discussions, we work together to address underlying challenges, build resilience, and empower you to make positive changes in your life. I am committed to your well-being, and growth, and am here to accompany you
I am an EMDR practitioner and facilitate therapy with a Trauma-Focused and Attachment-based approach.
I provide a safe, nonjudgemental space where you can explore your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors without fear of criticism. By fostering a trusting therapeutic relationship, I aim to support you in gaining insight into your struggles and developing effective coping strategies. I integrate various therapeutic techniques and modalities tailored to your specific goals and preferences. Through collaborative discussions, we work together to address underlying challenges, build resilience, and empower you to make positive changes in your life. I am committed to your well-being, and growth, and am here to accompany you
Dr. Suzanne Pelka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, PhD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Certified Sexual Addition Therapist (CSAT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) certified.
In need of sex therapy? Lack of desire? A sex-starved marriage? Sex/porn addiction? Just not on the same page as your partner? As a Sexuality Specialist and CSAT, I have successfully treated clients struggling with many different sexual problems (Men: erectile dysfunction, rapid/premature/delayed ejaculation. Women: low desire, painful intercourse, vaginismus/vulvadynia. Either: sexual inexperience, sexual anorexia, childhood sexual traumas including incest). I often use EMDR to resolve underlying traumas. I have researched and taught at UCLA, SMC, The University of Chicago, DePaul and have been a sexuality expert on NBC, ABC and KCAL 9 news.
Certified Sexual Addition Therapist (CSAT) and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) certified.
In need of sex therapy? Lack of desire? A sex-starved marriage? Sex/porn addiction? Just not on the same page as your partner? As a Sexuality Specialist and CSAT, I have successfully treated clients struggling with many different sexual problems (Men: erectile dysfunction, rapid/premature/delayed ejaculation. Women: low desire, painful intercourse, vaginismus/vulvadynia. Either: sexual inexperience, sexual anorexia, childhood sexual traumas including incest). I often use EMDR to resolve underlying traumas. I have researched and taught at UCLA, SMC, The University of Chicago, DePaul and have been a sexuality expert on NBC, ABC and KCAL 9 news.
I am trained in EMDR which can be transformative in treating trauma, as well as many other areas of struggle.
Nurturing, strength-based and compassionate, I am an active and directive participant in my clients' work- whether working with individuals or with a couple . We together will identify what brings you to treatment, be it depression, anxiety, PTSD, marital distress, or simply discomfort. We will articulate where in your life you are struggling- interpersonally, at work, within your family system or in your marriage, and develop goals to relieve that distress. It can be challenging to choose to participate in therapy, and I work to create a safe environment so we can engage and address the issues that are challenging you.
I am trained in EMDR which can be transformative in treating trauma, as well as many other areas of struggle.
Nurturing, strength-based and compassionate, I am an active and directive participant in my clients' work- whether working with individuals or with a couple . We together will identify what brings you to treatment, be it depression, anxiety, PTSD, marital distress, or simply discomfort. We will articulate where in your life you are struggling- interpersonally, at work, within your family system or in your marriage, and develop goals to relieve that distress. It can be challenging to choose to participate in therapy, and I work to create a safe environment so we can engage and address the issues that are challenging you.
I have specialized training in EMDR, which was designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories; DBT which helps identify thoughts, beliefs, and assumptions that make life harder; Sensorimotor Psychotherapy which is a body-centered therapy that can help relieve the negative effects of trauma and emotional pain.
Life is challenging, especially when you are overwhelmed by distressing thoughts and feelings. Whether you're dealing with a past trauma or current stressor, I can help relieve persistent sadness, grief or anxiety. I have extensive experience utilizing the latest techniques, based in neuroscience, to assist people struggling with emotional distress, low self esteem, relationship issues, trauma & violence, disordered eating & substance abuse. I can help ensure your past doesn't dictate your future, as together we address the underlying causes of your distress, in a safe and supportive environment that honors your individual needs, values, beliefs, and goals.
I have specialized training in EMDR, which was designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories; DBT which helps identify thoughts, beliefs, and assumptions that make life harder; Sensorimotor Psychotherapy which is a body-centered therapy that can help relieve the negative effects of trauma and emotional pain.
Life is challenging, especially when you are overwhelmed by distressing thoughts and feelings. Whether you're dealing with a past trauma or current stressor, I can help relieve persistent sadness, grief or anxiety. I have extensive experience utilizing the latest techniques, based in neuroscience, to assist people struggling with emotional distress, low self esteem, relationship issues, trauma & violence, disordered eating & substance abuse. I can help ensure your past doesn't dictate your future, as together we address the underlying causes of your distress, in a safe and supportive environment that honors your individual needs, values, beliefs, and goals.
In addition to talk therapy, I am skilled in somatic interventions, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and various heartful practices to provide the most comprehensive care possible.
Psychotherapy is one of the most powerful tools for transforming one's life, and seeking support takes courage. I specialize in working with teenagers, young adults, and families and the obstacles they face throughout life transitions. I am particularly interested in supporting parents through complex challenges ranging from pregnancy and infertility, adulting teen difficulties and the college process, relationships and high achievement issues, divorce, and the "empty nest." As a heart-focused therapist, I am committed to empowering people to build the internal strengths and resources to live their desired life.
In addition to talk therapy, I am skilled in somatic interventions, including Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and various heartful practices to provide the most comprehensive care possible.
Psychotherapy is one of the most powerful tools for transforming one's life, and seeking support takes courage. I specialize in working with teenagers, young adults, and families and the obstacles they face throughout life transitions. I am particularly interested in supporting parents through complex challenges ranging from pregnancy and infertility, adulting teen difficulties and the college process, relationships and high achievement issues, divorce, and the "empty nest." As a heart-focused therapist, I am committed to empowering people to build the internal strengths and resources to live their desired life.
Dr. Jeremy Fink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Berkeley Professors Mary Main and Eric Hesse, I practice EMDR with both children and adults, and am certified by DCFS to work with childhood trauma.
I specialize in short and long term psychotherapy and psychoanalysis for individual adults, couples, children, adolescents, and parents. I am a trained psychoanalyst, a child specialist, with additional training in cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR. I focus on the importance of finding balance, vision, creativity, and meaning in one's life. From disorder and chaos comes balance and order. My clients have found my approach to mental health effective in creating long-term positive change.
Berkeley Professors Mary Main and Eric Hesse, I practice EMDR with both children and adults, and am certified by DCFS to work with childhood trauma.
I specialize in short and long term psychotherapy and psychoanalysis for individual adults, couples, children, adolescents, and parents. I am a trained psychoanalyst, a child specialist, with additional training in cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR. I focus on the importance of finding balance, vision, creativity, and meaning in one's life. From disorder and chaos comes balance and order. My clients have found my approach to mental health effective in creating long-term positive change.
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I am a certified EMDR (trauma) therapist, trained in Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems, and Emotionally Focused (EFT) Therapy.
During this difficult time, you may need support. I care and want to help you through life's challenges. Therapy is beneficial whether you are seeking to address current or long-term issues. Your emotional health can improve. Therapy can positively transform the course of your life. I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in individual, family and couple’s therapy. I have a Ph.D. and master’s in psychology and a master’s in Alternative Dispute resolution. l work collaboratively and transparently to create real and lasting results. I keep up to date on the latest treatments relevant to our goals.
I am a certified EMDR (trauma) therapist, trained in Psychodynamic, Cognitive Behavioral, Family Systems, and Emotionally Focused (EFT) Therapy.
During this difficult time, you may need support. I care and want to help you through life's challenges. Therapy is beneficial whether you are seeking to address current or long-term issues. Your emotional health can improve. Therapy can positively transform the course of your life. I am a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in individual, family and couple’s therapy. I have a Ph.D. and master’s in psychology and a master’s in Alternative Dispute resolution. l work collaboratively and transparently to create real and lasting results. I keep up to date on the latest treatments relevant to our goals.
Christine Ashe - Certified Emdr Therapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, SEP
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
I interweave scientifically-based techniques: EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and an Inter-Subjective holding that uncovers your true freedom and happiness in a gentle, light-speed approach.
Fact is, the past often gets in the way of living life to its fullest. Do you feel emotionally drained, empty inside with thoughts of self-loathing? Maybe you are consumed with shame over memories, behaviors or thoughts you cannot seem to control. Loss of sleep and an overall sense of irritability can overwhelm any sense of normalcy. This is not the real you-but how to get out from under it? Breakthroughs happen... when digging deep one needs an experienced hand to shine a light to help.
I interweave scientifically-based techniques: EMDR, Somatic Experiencing and an Inter-Subjective holding that uncovers your true freedom and happiness in a gentle, light-speed approach.
Fact is, the past often gets in the way of living life to its fullest. Do you feel emotionally drained, empty inside with thoughts of self-loathing? Maybe you are consumed with shame over memories, behaviors or thoughts you cannot seem to control. Loss of sleep and an overall sense of irritability can overwhelm any sense of normalcy. This is not the real you-but how to get out from under it? Breakthroughs happen... when digging deep one needs an experienced hand to shine a light to help.
Georgina Kim Smith
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
Waitlist for new clients
Dr. Smith's genuine, grounded and integrated therapeutic approach allows for a connection to her clients where through modalities such as EMDR, IFS (parts work), and attachment-based talk therapy, there is a focus on insight shifting to somatic integration and actionable change, discovering and healing the core self, learning to regulate emotion and express needs in healthy ways, adapting internal dialogue, core beliefs, and reinforcing coping resources. Dr. Smith believes in building an authentic therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy, challenge and change while creating a renewed sense of self, empowerment and hope.
Dr. Smith's genuine, grounded and integrated therapeutic approach allows for a connection to her clients where through modalities such as EMDR, IFS (parts work), and attachment-based talk therapy, there is a focus on insight shifting to somatic integration and actionable change, discovering and healing the core self, learning to regulate emotion and express needs in healthy ways, adapting internal dialogue, core beliefs, and reinforcing coping resources. Dr. Smith believes in building an authentic therapeutic relationship based on respect, empathy, challenge and change while creating a renewed sense of self, empowerment and hope.
I'm continuously astounded by the human being's capacity to hate and to love, to hurt and to heal. We are miraculous and complex creatures and my aim is to create a space for honoring that. I'm a licensed clinician, providing EMDR, individual, couple, and family therapy. I have specialized in eating disorders and co-morbid conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD), and previously worked as a DIR/Floortime Therapist for children and teens with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Additionally, I have a deep passion for exploring issues related to identity, transition, gender, sexuality, and, really, the daily human experience.
I'm continuously astounded by the human being's capacity to hate and to love, to hurt and to heal. We are miraculous and complex creatures and my aim is to create a space for honoring that. I'm a licensed clinician, providing EMDR, individual, couple, and family therapy. I have specialized in eating disorders and co-morbid conditions (depression, anxiety, PTSD, and OCD), and previously worked as a DIR/Floortime Therapist for children and teens with Autism Spectrum Disorders. Additionally, I have a deep passion for exploring issues related to identity, transition, gender, sexuality, and, really, the daily human experience.
Ashley Curiel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 (Online Only)
Tired of feeling stuck and frustrated? You deserve to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I can help you accomplish that in numerous ways. While I offer traditional talk therapy, I also offer Somatic Experiencing and EMDR. Both of these modalities utilize an inside-out approach, facilitating healing at a deep, somatic level that endures, rather than trying to convince yourself you are okay when you know you don’t feel it in your body. Plus, you never have to sacrifice one approach for another. We continue to incorporate other modalities, such as psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral interventions, into treatment.
Tired of feeling stuck and frustrated? You deserve to live a meaningful and fulfilling life. I can help you accomplish that in numerous ways. While I offer traditional talk therapy, I also offer Somatic Experiencing and EMDR. Both of these modalities utilize an inside-out approach, facilitating healing at a deep, somatic level that endures, rather than trying to convince yourself you are okay when you know you don’t feel it in your body. Plus, you never have to sacrifice one approach for another. We continue to incorporate other modalities, such as psychodynamic, mindfulness, and cognitive-behavioral interventions, into treatment.
Antionette D Brookins
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Dr. Brookins licensed marriage and family therapist. I'm also a senior pastor's wife and I specialize in counseling Christian women. Growing up in the church I understand first hand, the sensitive and often complex needs of Christian believers. And as a skilled licensed mental health professional, I also understand that our mental health matters. And, Jesus does not want us to suffer. As a Strengths-Based therapist, I utilize CBT, EMDR, and Solution Focused interventions in treatment. I also offer a variety of coaching packages specifically designed for the Christian woman.
Hi, I'm Dr. Brookins licensed marriage and family therapist. I'm also a senior pastor's wife and I specialize in counseling Christian women. Growing up in the church I understand first hand, the sensitive and often complex needs of Christian believers. And as a skilled licensed mental health professional, I also understand that our mental health matters. And, Jesus does not want us to suffer. As a Strengths-Based therapist, I utilize CBT, EMDR, and Solution Focused interventions in treatment. I also offer a variety of coaching packages specifically designed for the Christian woman.
Shelby Stone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
For those feeling stuck or wanting to work through trauma, I use EMDR, a collaborative and highly researched treatment, and Brainspotting, a brain-body method, to help free you from negative experiences while allowing you to heal more quickly.
Life can be tough, especially recently, but how you handle challenge shows strength and courage. How are you coping and managing relationships during these times? Maybe you are feeling stuck or hopeless, worried or isolated. Are you or a loved one struggling to deal with these changes? Therapy can help you address these issues and strengthen yourself and your relationships in the process. I believe in human resiliency and welcome you to see how this process can help you work towards more fulfillment, joy, and hope for you, your child, or loved one.
For those feeling stuck or wanting to work through trauma, I use EMDR, a collaborative and highly researched treatment, and Brainspotting, a brain-body method, to help free you from negative experiences while allowing you to heal more quickly.
Life can be tough, especially recently, but how you handle challenge shows strength and courage. How are you coping and managing relationships during these times? Maybe you are feeling stuck or hopeless, worried or isolated. Are you or a loved one struggling to deal with these changes? Therapy can help you address these issues and strengthen yourself and your relationships in the process. I believe in human resiliency and welcome you to see how this process can help you work towards more fulfillment, joy, and hope for you, your child, or loved one.
I am trained in these evidence-based modalities: EMDR, IFS (Internal Family Systems), Brief solution focused therapy, CBT ( cognitive behavioral therapy), EFT, Matrix Reimprinting, NLP and many others that I use- depending on the particular client.
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression or trauma related to their relationships or family. In our first sessions we will identify the issues you need to resolve and create a plan together to address these issues in a way that makes you feel relieved because you will start to see how you can move forward without so much weight of these symptoms. Most of my clients report feeling lighter within 2or 3 sessions. I work with all types of relationship issues including cheating and infidelity as well as parent-child and sibling relationships.
I am trained in these evidence-based modalities: EMDR, IFS (Internal Family Systems), Brief solution focused therapy, CBT ( cognitive behavioral therapy), EFT, Matrix Reimprinting, NLP and many others that I use- depending on the particular client.
I work with clients who may be struggling with depression or trauma related to their relationships or family. In our first sessions we will identify the issues you need to resolve and create a plan together to address these issues in a way that makes you feel relieved because you will start to see how you can move forward without so much weight of these symptoms. Most of my clients report feeling lighter within 2or 3 sessions. I work with all types of relationship issues including cheating and infidelity as well as parent-child and sibling relationships.
Gretchen Mattox
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT, CMAT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pacific Palisades, CA 90272 (Online Only)
As the Clinical Director of a group practice, EMDR trained, and sex therapist, I want my patients to feel safe; trust opens the door to healing. We have offices in Agoura Hills, San Diego, and West LA; successfully treat: infidelity, sexual abuse, pelvic pain, sexual compulsions, and erectile struggles. Stress and unfinished emotional work can make us feel stuck or lead to destructive relationship patterns, and sexual acting out. My office is a shame free zone where we can unpack together a course best suited for your individual healing. Sex is a complex as each of us are as individuals. Shame can be in your past; a new life awaits!
As the Clinical Director of a group practice, EMDR trained, and sex therapist, I want my patients to feel safe; trust opens the door to healing. We have offices in Agoura Hills, San Diego, and West LA; successfully treat: infidelity, sexual abuse, pelvic pain, sexual compulsions, and erectile struggles. Stress and unfinished emotional work can make us feel stuck or lead to destructive relationship patterns, and sexual acting out. My office is a shame free zone where we can unpack together a course best suited for your individual healing. Sex is a complex as each of us are as individuals. Shame can be in your past; a new life awaits!
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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.