EMDR Therapists in Panorama City, CA

Photo of Larisa Escalante, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Larisa Escalante
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Panorama City, CA 91402
My name is Larisa Escalante, and I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 140018). My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly effective and evidence-based therapeutic modality. In addition to my expertise in CBT, I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting therapies. These trauma-focused therapies are instrumental in helping individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences, fostering resilience and emotional growth.
My name is Larisa Escalante, and I am licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT 140018). My approach to therapy is grounded in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), a highly effective and evidence-based therapeutic modality. In addition to my expertise in CBT, I am also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and Brainspotting therapies. These trauma-focused therapies are instrumental in helping individuals process and heal from distressing or traumatic experiences, fostering resilience and emotional growth.
(747) 285-7137 View (747) 285-7137
Photo of Patricia Alba, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patricia Alba
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Panorama City, CA 91402
Using DBT, IFS, EMDR, Psychodelic Assisted Psychotherapy and psychodynamic treatments, we will explore why the past is still present for you, and through this exploration, we’ll find a new path forward.
You are tired of repeating the same patterns, sometimes in ways that are surprising even to you. You want to understand yourself and get motivation to change. You may be hindered by the expectations of others, your past, your health or your self-esteem. Sometimes it feels like you are cursed to repeat the same mistakes. There is a way out.
Using DBT, IFS, EMDR, Psychodelic Assisted Psychotherapy and psychodynamic treatments, we will explore why the past is still present for you, and through this exploration, we’ll find a new path forward.
You are tired of repeating the same patterns, sometimes in ways that are surprising even to you. You want to understand yourself and get motivation to change. You may be hindered by the expectations of others, your past, your health or your self-esteem. Sometimes it feels like you are cursed to repeat the same mistakes. There is a way out.
(818) 814-9466 View (818) 814-9466
Photo of Jennifer Bettger, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Bettger
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Panorama City, CA 91402
Hi, My name is Jenni Bettger. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA and TX. I am passionate about joining alongside my clients in their journey of growth and healing. I enjoy working with individuals to help them work through life's challenges. Some of my areas of treatment are depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, family issues, spiritual concerns, and stress management. I've been in private practice for 20 years. I am a Christian therapist and certified in EMDR trauma treatment. I also practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems work.
Hi, My name is Jenni Bettger. I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in CA and TX. I am passionate about joining alongside my clients in their journey of growth and healing. I enjoy working with individuals to help them work through life's challenges. Some of my areas of treatment are depression, anxiety, trauma, relationship issues, family issues, spiritual concerns, and stress management. I've been in private practice for 20 years. I am a Christian therapist and certified in EMDR trauma treatment. I also practice Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Family Systems work.
(747) 326-5662 View (747) 326-5662
Photo of Jessica Millanponce, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Millanponce
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Panorama City, CA 91402
These techniques include EMDR, IFS, brain-spotting, flash technique, mind/body work, mindfulness, grounding, tapping and trauma-informed yoga.
Hello and welcome! My name is Jessica Millanponce and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I want to start by saying how honored I am that you took time to learn a little bit about me and my clinical care approach. It is my belief and experience that complex-relational trauma and attachment injuries show up in our lives and are the catalyst for symptoms that resemble anxiety, depression, dissociation, hyperactivity and various mood disorders. My approach to care is and has to be gentle, self-guided and compassionate as we explore the inner parts of Self that need attention, unburdening and healing.
These techniques include EMDR, IFS, brain-spotting, flash technique, mind/body work, mindfulness, grounding, tapping and trauma-informed yoga.
Hello and welcome! My name is Jessica Millanponce and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I want to start by saying how honored I am that you took time to learn a little bit about me and my clinical care approach. It is my belief and experience that complex-relational trauma and attachment injuries show up in our lives and are the catalyst for symptoms that resemble anxiety, depression, dissociation, hyperactivity and various mood disorders. My approach to care is and has to be gentle, self-guided and compassionate as we explore the inner parts of Self that need attention, unburdening and healing.
(661) 306-3306 View (661) 306-3306
Photo of Colleen Cambra, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Cambra
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Panorama City, CA 91402
Hi and welcome! My name is Colleen Cambra, LCSW. I have been a clinical social worker since 1992. I know how to listen and hear your thoughts and feelings with care in a supportive and warm environment. Our work together will be interactive and collaborative. I work with a blend of evidence-based therapies including CBT and DBT. I also enjoy using mindfulness and visualization techniques to help reduce stress.
Hi and welcome! My name is Colleen Cambra, LCSW. I have been a clinical social worker since 1992. I know how to listen and hear your thoughts and feelings with care in a supportive and warm environment. Our work together will be interactive and collaborative. I work with a blend of evidence-based therapies including CBT and DBT. I also enjoy using mindfulness and visualization techniques to help reduce stress.
(619) 304-6142 View (619) 304-6142

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Maria Cabrera, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Maria Cabrera
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
North Hills, CA 91343  (Online Only)
Are you having relationship issues? Looking to be encouraged and challenged? Could somatic therapy like EMDR help? Do you need guidance with LGBTQ+ issues? First generation issues? Are you ready to improve your quality of life? It requires time and effort. With a collaborative and strengths-based approach, we'll work to create that change, plus learn to build healthy, secure relationships with yourself and others. We'll draw connections between your thoughts, emotions and behavior, and increase self-awareness and inner calm with effective coping and problem-solving skills. You DESERVE a balanced and peaceful life. Let’s get to work!
Are you having relationship issues? Looking to be encouraged and challenged? Could somatic therapy like EMDR help? Do you need guidance with LGBTQ+ issues? First generation issues? Are you ready to improve your quality of life? It requires time and effort. With a collaborative and strengths-based approach, we'll work to create that change, plus learn to build healthy, secure relationships with yourself and others. We'll draw connections between your thoughts, emotions and behavior, and increase self-awareness and inner calm with effective coping and problem-solving skills. You DESERVE a balanced and peaceful life. Let’s get to work!
(562) 526-1706 View (562) 526-1706
Photo of Maryam Ashraf, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maryam Ashraf
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
I utilize EMDR therapy to help my clients process the impact of trauma and highlight that resilience and restore hope.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
I utilize EMDR therapy to help my clients process the impact of trauma and highlight that resilience and restore hope.
Do you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, self-esteem, identity, and difficult life transitions? Do you find yourself feeling stuck and can’t seem to focus or move forward? There are many ways to get unstuck, and this is the work I love to do to help you heal, grow and live a more fulfilling life. I use an integrative approach including attachment-based work, DBT, CBT, IFS, and mindfulness, bringing in each as needed. Above all, I strive to hold space and empathy for your life experience.
(323) 693-8601 View (323) 693-8601
Photo of Lorena Diaz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lorena Diaz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacoima, CA 91331  (Online Only)
I integrate psychodynamic and EMDR therapy.
Sometimes it's difficult to share what hurts inside. Maybe you've tried different tools, and things have not changed. That hurting may be preventing you from making decisions, connecting with others, or feeling like yourself ... I'd love to help you see through unresolved conflicts that are keeping you down. My approach is gentle, open, and curious. In our sessions, we'll build safety and we'll explore what hurts at your pace.
I integrate psychodynamic and EMDR therapy.
Sometimes it's difficult to share what hurts inside. Maybe you've tried different tools, and things have not changed. That hurting may be preventing you from making decisions, connecting with others, or feeling like yourself ... I'd love to help you see through unresolved conflicts that are keeping you down. My approach is gentle, open, and curious. In our sessions, we'll build safety and we'll explore what hurts at your pace.
(408) 606-2824 View (408) 606-2824
Photo of Alice Barclay, LPC, LPCC, LCPC, Counselor
Alice Barclay
Counselor, LPC, LPCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Mission Hills, CA 91345  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in experiential psychotherapy modalities and I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
There is so much joy, love, and abundance waiting for you. Are you ready to receive it? I work with teens and adults who are yearning for big changes in their life but need some extra support in getting there. I specialize in clearing the road blocks to your highest potential including past traumas, self-limiting beliefs, constricting emotions, and behaviors that are out of alignment with your soul's purpose. I work best with clients who are willing to dive deep to find the treasures within.
I have extensive training in experiential psychotherapy modalities and I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
There is so much joy, love, and abundance waiting for you. Are you ready to receive it? I work with teens and adults who are yearning for big changes in their life but need some extra support in getting there. I specialize in clearing the road blocks to your highest potential including past traumas, self-limiting beliefs, constricting emotions, and behaviors that are out of alignment with your soul's purpose. I work best with clients who are willing to dive deep to find the treasures within.
(719) 751-5535 View (719) 751-5535
Photo of Alyssa Marie Mancao - Alyssa Marie Wellness, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alyssa Marie Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Van Nuys, CA 91406  (Online Only)
Depending on your needs, I utilize the EMDR approach to facilitate healing from trauma.
I strongly believe in the power of compassion and human connection. I have a special interest in treating those suffering from trauma, and struggling with issues of self- esteem, body image, depression, and anxiety. While I utilize a combination of psychodynamic modalities and CBT, my treatment is tailored to each individual person. I believe in the collaborative relationship between client and therapist. It is my goal to provide a safe, non judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, fears, and beliefs.
Depending on your needs, I utilize the EMDR approach to facilitate healing from trauma.
I strongly believe in the power of compassion and human connection. I have a special interest in treating those suffering from trauma, and struggling with issues of self- esteem, body image, depression, and anxiety. While I utilize a combination of psychodynamic modalities and CBT, my treatment is tailored to each individual person. I believe in the collaborative relationship between client and therapist. It is my goal to provide a safe, non judgmental space for you to explore your thoughts, fears, and beliefs.
(909) 219-9193 View (909) 219-9193
Photo of Jiyoung Kim, ASW, EMDR
Jiyoung Kim
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
Do you find difficulties with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship/family problems, and trauma? These emotional disruptions can have a significant impact on our lives. Coping with these events requires various approaches, and I can assist you in recognizing your emotions and identifying possible patterns in your relationships. I can also help you develop resilience and acceptance towards challenging emotions, and support you in setting meaningful goals. I utilize EMDR, CBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, & person-centered therapy to reduce anxiety and trauma symptoms, foster resilience, and enhance the quality of life.
Do you find difficulties with feelings of depression, anxiety, relationship/family problems, and trauma? These emotional disruptions can have a significant impact on our lives. Coping with these events requires various approaches, and I can assist you in recognizing your emotions and identifying possible patterns in your relationships. I can also help you develop resilience and acceptance towards challenging emotions, and support you in setting meaningful goals. I utilize EMDR, CBT, trauma-informed care, mindfulness, & person-centered therapy to reduce anxiety and trauma symptoms, foster resilience, and enhance the quality of life.
(323) 524-9224 View (323) 524-9224
Photo of Christian Tony Savoie, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Christian Tony Savoie
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Mission Hills, CA 91345
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, Mindful Self Compassion, Brain Spotting, and EMDR.
It's not unusual for people to experience moments of disconnection or imbalance with themselves, with their families, or with society. Most of us tend to immediately react with, "I must be broken, or I'm different." You are not broken, you are who you are as a result of something that occurred. I am passionate about exploring where the root cause of that fear, pain, and uncertainty might be coming from. We are all products of our past events. It doesn't always mean that it is someone else's fault, it may be a result of our painful past resulting in our distorted self-perception. I listen without judgment, and with compassion.
I use Internal Family Systems (IFS), CBT, Mindful Self Compassion, Brain Spotting, and EMDR.
It's not unusual for people to experience moments of disconnection or imbalance with themselves, with their families, or with society. Most of us tend to immediately react with, "I must be broken, or I'm different." You are not broken, you are who you are as a result of something that occurred. I am passionate about exploring where the root cause of that fear, pain, and uncertainty might be coming from. We are all products of our past events. It doesn't always mean that it is someone else's fault, it may be a result of our painful past resulting in our distorted self-perception. I listen without judgment, and with compassion.
(818) 641-5440 View (818) 641-5440
Photo of Christopher Ruper, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christopher Ruper
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91406  (Online Only)
Hello, I am Christopher Ruper, licensed marriage and family therapist. I focus on treating clients with symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I have a Person-Centered approach and also utilize ACT, CBT, and EMDR for trauma. If you struggle with worry or have racing thoughts, feeling down or low energy, or have a lack of interest/pleasure, I may be able to help. I provide my clients with a safe therapeutic environment through the use of empathy and warmth. I assist clients with identifying thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; while assisting them with finding a healthy balance and living life according to their values.
Hello, I am Christopher Ruper, licensed marriage and family therapist. I focus on treating clients with symptoms of Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I have a Person-Centered approach and also utilize ACT, CBT, and EMDR for trauma. If you struggle with worry or have racing thoughts, feeling down or low energy, or have a lack of interest/pleasure, I may be able to help. I provide my clients with a safe therapeutic environment through the use of empathy and warmth. I assist clients with identifying thoughts, feelings, and behaviors; while assisting them with finding a healthy balance and living life according to their values.
(805) 429-8964 View (805) 429-8964
Photo of Liana Huang, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liana Huang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalysis, trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy to help clients develop a better understanding of any underlying issues and cope with overwhelming feelings.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
I am trained in EMDR, psychoanalysis, trauma-informed CBT, DBT, and solution-focused therapy to help clients develop a better understanding of any underlying issues and cope with overwhelming feelings.
When we are exposed to trauma at an early age, it can seriously impact how we feel about ourselves and our relationships with others. Trauma can also profoundly affect whether we feel this is a safe world and can contribute to depression, anxiety, and relational/familial issues. My practice is from a strengths-based, trauma-informed perspective with a non-judgmental framework. I aim to understand clients’ internal responses and to provide more options for emotional regulation and problem-solving.
(323) 673-3771 View (323) 673-3771
Photo of Heidi Xue, AMFT, APPC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Heidi Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
I provide trauma-informed care, EMDR, CBT, CPT, and ACT.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
I provide trauma-informed care, EMDR, CBT, CPT, and ACT.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
(323) 747-7428 View (323) 747-7428
Photo of Jose Luna, ASW, EMDR
Jose Luna
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
I am trained in CBT, EMDR, Gottman method, & Attachment Based Therapy.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
I am trained in CBT, EMDR, Gottman method, & Attachment Based Therapy.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
(323) 843-9193 View (323) 843-9193
Photo of Lisa Barker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Barker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pacoima, CA 91331
I am certified in Trauma Focused CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing by the EMDR Institute and trained In Brain Spotting.
Hello and welcome, My name is Lisa Barker and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 14 years of experience working with diverse populations. I am licensed in both California and Nevada. My therapy style is warm, engaging and collaborative. I support my clients in feeling safe and comfortable so they may gain insight into the issues that are presenting.
I am certified in Trauma Focused CBT, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing by the EMDR Institute and trained In Brain Spotting.
Hello and welcome, My name is Lisa Barker and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 14 years of experience working with diverse populations. I am licensed in both California and Nevada. My therapy style is warm, engaging and collaborative. I support my clients in feeling safe and comfortable so they may gain insight into the issues that are presenting.
(805) 723-2830 View (805) 723-2830
Photo of Melanie Maddox, ASW, EMDR
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Van Nuys, CA 91405
I utilize EMDR and trauma-focused therapy for addressing both the cognitive and somatic impacts of trauma, emphasizing their resilience, and rekindling hope for the future.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
I utilize EMDR and trauma-focused therapy for addressing both the cognitive and somatic impacts of trauma, emphasizing their resilience, and rekindling hope for the future.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(323) 375-2483 View (323) 375-2483
Photo of Jackie A. Castro, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jackie A. Castro
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mission Hills, CA 91345
I am an EMDR trained clinician which is evidence based for treating trauma.
Constantly worried? Losing hope? Feel like you’re not good enough? These are most likely symptoms of deeper issues. Hi, I’m Jackie Castro, the Mama Trauma Therapist. I tend to see most psychological issues through a ‘trauma lens’. I believe that the way you were cared for during the first years of your life has everything to do with how you operate in the world now as an adult. Early childhood trauma can range from big traumas like physical, emotional or sexual abuse to smaller things that you may or may not even remember; but they all add up. It’s not as important to drudge up details of your past, but to understand your triggers.
I am an EMDR trained clinician which is evidence based for treating trauma.
Constantly worried? Losing hope? Feel like you’re not good enough? These are most likely symptoms of deeper issues. Hi, I’m Jackie Castro, the Mama Trauma Therapist. I tend to see most psychological issues through a ‘trauma lens’. I believe that the way you were cared for during the first years of your life has everything to do with how you operate in the world now as an adult. Early childhood trauma can range from big traumas like physical, emotional or sexual abuse to smaller things that you may or may not even remember; but they all add up. It’s not as important to drudge up details of your past, but to understand your triggers.
(818) 493-1825 View (818) 493-1825
Photo of Payge Casady-Christensen, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Payge Casady-Christensen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
North Hills, CA 91343
I use an eclectic approach to therapy with the use of CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, psychoeducational, and journaling, in addition to other modalities that may best meet the need of my client.
I have many years of experience working with all age groups, people with disabilities, neurodivergent minds, people with autism, LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, grief and loss, aging, dissociation, and loneliness. I highly value supporting people in creating an understanding of the barriers they face both internally and externally that keep them from moving toward the life they want to live and, together, creating a plan to slowly work toward better days.
I use an eclectic approach to therapy with the use of CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, psychoeducational, and journaling, in addition to other modalities that may best meet the need of my client.
I have many years of experience working with all age groups, people with disabilities, neurodivergent minds, people with autism, LGBTQ+, anxiety, depression, adjustment challenges, grief and loss, aging, dissociation, and loneliness. I highly value supporting people in creating an understanding of the barriers they face both internally and externally that keep them from moving toward the life they want to live and, together, creating a plan to slowly work toward better days.
(818) 639-4911 View (818) 639-4911

See more therapy options for Panorama 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.