EMDR Therapists in Pasadena, CA

Photo of Jennifer Kerr, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Kerr
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91104  (Online Only)
In addition, I use advanced neuropsychological treatment modalities such as EMDR that extend beyond the limits of talk therapy.
I believe everyone has the capacity to achieve their goals and become their authentic self. My approach to therapy involves empowering individuals to better understand themselves and tap into inner resources needed to heal and make desired life changes. I focus on helping you develop a deeper exploration of who you are and help you understand obstacles and trauma getting in the way of you achieving what you desire in life. We cannot change the past, but together we can work together to create a better future. Therapy is difficult self -work, but I will work alongside you to create the space to promote healing and empower you.
In addition, I use advanced neuropsychological treatment modalities such as EMDR that extend beyond the limits of talk therapy.
I believe everyone has the capacity to achieve their goals and become their authentic self. My approach to therapy involves empowering individuals to better understand themselves and tap into inner resources needed to heal and make desired life changes. I focus on helping you develop a deeper exploration of who you are and help you understand obstacles and trauma getting in the way of you achieving what you desire in life. We cannot change the past, but together we can work together to create a better future. Therapy is difficult self -work, but I will work alongside you to create the space to promote healing and empower you.
(323) 870-6970 View (323) 870-6970
Photo of Sara Lee, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sara Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
Among other modalities, I utilize EMDR which is an amazing tool that can help people who have achieved little progress with traditional forms of talk therapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety, unresolved trauma, addiction, fears or relationship problems that interfere in your life? I recognize firsthand the complexities of these issues and am a consistent advocate for those who seek growth and recovery. One day at a time, miracles happen and I have been blessed to be actively involved in 12 step programs for over 32 years. I utilize a variety of cutting edge therapies including EMDR, motivational and other innovative techniques to improve the lives of individuals seeking change. I encourage people to build on their strengths, discover their gifts and live the life of their dreams.
Among other modalities, I utilize EMDR which is an amazing tool that can help people who have achieved little progress with traditional forms of talk therapy.
Are you struggling with anxiety, unresolved trauma, addiction, fears or relationship problems that interfere in your life? I recognize firsthand the complexities of these issues and am a consistent advocate for those who seek growth and recovery. One day at a time, miracles happen and I have been blessed to be actively involved in 12 step programs for over 32 years. I utilize a variety of cutting edge therapies including EMDR, motivational and other innovative techniques to improve the lives of individuals seeking change. I encourage people to build on their strengths, discover their gifts and live the life of their dreams.
(626) 671-4504 View (626) 671-4504
Photo of Jana Rae Corpuz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jana Rae Corpuz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I use EMDR, group therapy and Guided Autobiography Writing (GAB) in order to do so.
Trauma can disconnect you from your true self. I work with women who have experienced trauma and looking to find their real authentic selves again. Despite feeling stuck, hopeless and ruled by your triggers, I believe everyone has the ability to and strength to heal themselves. They just need a little hope and a little help.
I use EMDR, group therapy and Guided Autobiography Writing (GAB) in order to do so.
Trauma can disconnect you from your true self. I work with women who have experienced trauma and looking to find their real authentic selves again. Despite feeling stuck, hopeless and ruled by your triggers, I believe everyone has the ability to and strength to heal themselves. They just need a little hope and a little help.
(323) 886-0458 View (323) 886-0458
Photo of Michele Wilkens, PsyD, Psychologist
Michele Wilkens
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
My services include use of EMDR, relational (focus on interpersonal relations), and somatic (body oriented; connection mind and body) practices that provide positive results.
We need support at different times and for various reasons. Right now, may be that time for you. Do you have feelings that are overwhelming or experience lack of feeling, and doing things is becoming more difficult? You may have feelings that are painful, intolerable, empty, lost, or feel just stuck. Do you ever wonder what would it be like to feel ok? Imagine feeling some relief, calmness, and peace. How essential is it to better understand and feel good about you? It may not be easy, but we can work together for you to feel better and content with your life.
My services include use of EMDR, relational (focus on interpersonal relations), and somatic (body oriented; connection mind and body) practices that provide positive results.
We need support at different times and for various reasons. Right now, may be that time for you. Do you have feelings that are overwhelming or experience lack of feeling, and doing things is becoming more difficult? You may have feelings that are painful, intolerable, empty, lost, or feel just stuck. Do you ever wonder what would it be like to feel ok? Imagine feeling some relief, calmness, and peace. How essential is it to better understand and feel good about you? It may not be easy, but we can work together for you to feel better and content with your life.
(323) 312-5494 View (323) 312-5494
Photo of Alison Lewis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91106
I'm an experienced Certified EMDR Therapist.
Everyone gets stuck sometimes. Maybe about relationships, work or family problems. It can be about things that happened in childhood, like rejection or physical or sexual abuse. Feeling bad about ourselves can make us lose confidence, have low self esteem, anxiety or depression, or unhealthy behaviors. What do you want to change? I've been a therapist for 25 years and I want to help you get to where you want to go.
I'm an experienced Certified EMDR Therapist.
Everyone gets stuck sometimes. Maybe about relationships, work or family problems. It can be about things that happened in childhood, like rejection or physical or sexual abuse. Feeling bad about ourselves can make us lose confidence, have low self esteem, anxiety or depression, or unhealthy behaviors. What do you want to change? I've been a therapist for 25 years and I want to help you get to where you want to go.
(213) 465-3908 View (213) 465-3908
Photo of Dana Kert, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dana Kert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
I specialize in Trauma-Focused therapy and am trained in EMDR.
As a therapist, I know how difficult it can be to juggle all that life expects of us while experiencing mental or emotional distress. Whether it’s unwanted anxious thoughts, healing from a past trauma, or feeling stuck in your relationships, you are not alone. I will provide you a warm and safe space, free of judgment, for us to sit in your darkest moments and work toward giving you a more peaceful, joyful, and fulfilling future.
I specialize in Trauma-Focused therapy and am trained in EMDR.
As a therapist, I know how difficult it can be to juggle all that life expects of us while experiencing mental or emotional distress. Whether it’s unwanted anxious thoughts, healing from a past trauma, or feeling stuck in your relationships, you are not alone. I will provide you a warm and safe space, free of judgment, for us to sit in your darkest moments and work toward giving you a more peaceful, joyful, and fulfilling future.
(626) 316-6740 View (626) 316-6740
Photo of Lincoln Madley, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lincoln Madley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101
I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist.
Transition, loss, and transformation may be universal, but everyone experiences these changes differently. Sometimes you may become overwhelmed -- like everything is too much, or you cannot connect with the person you were before. You may have become stuck in a difficult moment or are acting in ways that make things worse. You deserve to lead a life worth living. Therapy provides an opportunity to explore personal challenges and discover areas of personal growth inherent in these painful times. I welcome adolescents, adults, and couples who are looking for support and validation in the work of healing and self-empowerment.
I am an EMDRIA trained EMDR therapist.
Transition, loss, and transformation may be universal, but everyone experiences these changes differently. Sometimes you may become overwhelmed -- like everything is too much, or you cannot connect with the person you were before. You may have become stuck in a difficult moment or are acting in ways that make things worse. You deserve to lead a life worth living. Therapy provides an opportunity to explore personal challenges and discover areas of personal growth inherent in these painful times. I welcome adolescents, adults, and couples who are looking for support and validation in the work of healing and self-empowerment.
(747) 223-8408 View (747) 223-8408
Photo of Terese Forster, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Terese Forster
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
As a somatic therapist certified in EMDR I work with the body-mind connection.
As a therapist, my goal is to help my clients heal from the traumas in their life to find true fulfillment and a more peaceful future. To do this, I place special emphasis on valuing the intelligence of each individual's journey. By attuning to your process with compassion, I provide a secure and nurturing environment which makes it easier to explore the challenges you face. My focus is to walk you through the process and help you to find what works best for you. I hold the space for you to become at peace with your past.
As a somatic therapist certified in EMDR I work with the body-mind connection.
As a therapist, my goal is to help my clients heal from the traumas in their life to find true fulfillment and a more peaceful future. To do this, I place special emphasis on valuing the intelligence of each individual's journey. By attuning to your process with compassion, I provide a secure and nurturing environment which makes it easier to explore the challenges you face. My focus is to walk you through the process and help you to find what works best for you. I hold the space for you to become at peace with your past.
(626) 498-1802 View (626) 498-1802
Photo of Cyla Fisk, LMFT, PMH-C, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cyla Fisk
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
I am perinatal mental health certified, Attachment Focused EMDR trained, and use somatic practices and parts work.
I’m passionate about helping women transform their lives. Supporting them on their path to growth and healing. Being a woman in today’s modern world is hard. There’s pressure to have a healthy relationship, successful career, to be a good parent, and to be physically and emotionally healthy. High expectations of us take a toll on our minds and our bodies. Many women I work with talk about losing themselves and feeling frustratingly stuck. You want to feel grounded and confident. You need time to look inward and heal. You’re ready to develop a pathway forward, one where you feel hopeful and in control. You're in the right place.
I am perinatal mental health certified, Attachment Focused EMDR trained, and use somatic practices and parts work.
I’m passionate about helping women transform their lives. Supporting them on their path to growth and healing. Being a woman in today’s modern world is hard. There’s pressure to have a healthy relationship, successful career, to be a good parent, and to be physically and emotionally healthy. High expectations of us take a toll on our minds and our bodies. Many women I work with talk about losing themselves and feeling frustratingly stuck. You want to feel grounded and confident. You need time to look inward and heal. You’re ready to develop a pathway forward, one where you feel hopeful and in control. You're in the right place.
(323) 289-6953 View (323) 289-6953
Photo of Ruth Fong, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruth Fong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91103
Alongside talk therapy, I utilize EMDR, parts and somatic work to help the body release trauma and nervous system regulation.
I am passionate about helping women to truly thrive and find meaning in life. Being a woman is hard and often comes with many expectations. There’s pressure to have a successful career and healthy relationships, to be a good mom, to look put together, to be physically/emotionally healthy... Many of the women I work with find themselves feeling stressed and overwhelmed to the point that their physical and mental health may suffer. Maybe this sounds like you. You want to look inward, find healing and regain a sense of control. You want to develop tools to manage your mental load and move out of survival mode. You want to hope again.
Alongside talk therapy, I utilize EMDR, parts and somatic work to help the body release trauma and nervous system regulation.
I am passionate about helping women to truly thrive and find meaning in life. Being a woman is hard and often comes with many expectations. There’s pressure to have a successful career and healthy relationships, to be a good mom, to look put together, to be physically/emotionally healthy... Many of the women I work with find themselves feeling stressed and overwhelmed to the point that their physical and mental health may suffer. Maybe this sounds like you. You want to look inward, find healing and regain a sense of control. You want to develop tools to manage your mental load and move out of survival mode. You want to hope again.
(626) 784-4486 View (626) 784-4486
Photo of Kevin James Logie, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kevin James Logie
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91103
As a therapist with a background in the arts and improv, I bring a unique and creative approach to my work with adolescents, individuals, and couples. I use a narrative therapeutic approach integrated with EMDR, helping clients rewrite their stories and overcome past traumas. While therapy can be heavy at times, I believe in incorporating humor and lightness, along with mindfulness techniques, to defy the gravity of life's challenges. Together, we can create the life you want to be living.
As a therapist with a background in the arts and improv, I bring a unique and creative approach to my work with adolescents, individuals, and couples. I use a narrative therapeutic approach integrated with EMDR, helping clients rewrite their stories and overcome past traumas. While therapy can be heavy at times, I believe in incorporating humor and lightness, along with mindfulness techniques, to defy the gravity of life's challenges. Together, we can create the life you want to be living.
(626) 654-1531 View (626) 654-1531
Photo of Amber Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amber Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
One of my specialties is EMDR, which is a powerful tool for helping reduce the affects of severe to minor traumas without having to relive them so that you can heal deeply and effectively.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California, Texas, and Colorado. Mainly, I work with individual adolescent and adults, but will meet with couples and families. I am certified in EMDR, Restoration Therapy for couples work, and am working on certification for ADHD. Whatever the issue is, you don't need to have everything together before we meet. It's ok. We'll sort it out together. All you need to do is show up. Let's start with where you're at and we'll find a way to get to where you want to be.
One of my specialties is EMDR, which is a powerful tool for helping reduce the affects of severe to minor traumas without having to relive them so that you can heal deeply and effectively.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in both California, Texas, and Colorado. Mainly, I work with individual adolescent and adults, but will meet with couples and families. I am certified in EMDR, Restoration Therapy for couples work, and am working on certification for ADHD. Whatever the issue is, you don't need to have everything together before we meet. It's ok. We'll sort it out together. All you need to do is show up. Let's start with where you're at and we'll find a way to get to where you want to be.
(323) 403-0929 View (323) 403-0929
Photo of Linda Callahan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Callahan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91107  (Online Only)
To name a few IFS, EMDR, CBT, and Brain Spotting I work with all types of trauma.
I know how hard it is to ask for help! It can seem insurmountable just to reach out to a therapist. I want to help you feel better and create goals with you to help manage your life and relationships. Therapy is hard work and understanding is an important key to a therapeutic relationship. Please remember there are no magic wands that can make things go away, but with work and help you can manage your life and increase your self-esteem to create a healthy environment in which to live your best life.
To name a few IFS, EMDR, CBT, and Brain Spotting I work with all types of trauma.
I know how hard it is to ask for help! It can seem insurmountable just to reach out to a therapist. I want to help you feel better and create goals with you to help manage your life and relationships. Therapy is hard work and understanding is an important key to a therapeutic relationship. Please remember there are no magic wands that can make things go away, but with work and help you can manage your life and increase your self-esteem to create a healthy environment in which to live your best life.
(626) 876-2344 View (626) 876-2344
Photo of Pamela Lewis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela Lewis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, am EMDR trained, and have experience with many of the issues which young adults, individuals, and couples face.
We all experience difficulties in life. Reaching out for help is often the first step in healing. I believe that people are more than the challenges they face and have resiliency that they may not yet realize. I work with individuals and couples who are looking for ways to manage ADHD, anxiety, depression, communication difficulties, grief, relational issues, and struggles with self-esteem. My approach is strength based and non-judgmental. I would be happy to join you during your challenging times and provide the support you are looking for while you discover your strengths.
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities, am EMDR trained, and have experience with many of the issues which young adults, individuals, and couples face.
We all experience difficulties in life. Reaching out for help is often the first step in healing. I believe that people are more than the challenges they face and have resiliency that they may not yet realize. I work with individuals and couples who are looking for ways to manage ADHD, anxiety, depression, communication difficulties, grief, relational issues, and struggles with self-esteem. My approach is strength based and non-judgmental. I would be happy to join you during your challenging times and provide the support you are looking for while you discover your strengths.
(661) 276-9250 View (661) 276-9250
Photo of Zoe Wick, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Zoe Wick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
Depending on the needs and goals of my clients, I use EMDR, parts work integrating Internal Family Systems and EMDR, Attachment Theory, Family Systems, ACT and CBT.
Are you experiencing after-effects of traumatic events, navigating a transition, or wanting to live more authentically? My approach is to help you build upon your strengths, develop strategies to manage immediate challenges, and heal the root causes of struggles you are having. We may start with skills to calm your nervous system when you have anxiety or trauma symptoms, or with education to gain insight into your experiences. We may work on strengthening your relationships and support system. As we process underlying issues, my hope is that you start to experience a sense of greater agency, self-worth and authenticity.
Depending on the needs and goals of my clients, I use EMDR, parts work integrating Internal Family Systems and EMDR, Attachment Theory, Family Systems, ACT and CBT.
Are you experiencing after-effects of traumatic events, navigating a transition, or wanting to live more authentically? My approach is to help you build upon your strengths, develop strategies to manage immediate challenges, and heal the root causes of struggles you are having. We may start with skills to calm your nervous system when you have anxiety or trauma symptoms, or with education to gain insight into your experiences. We may work on strengthening your relationships and support system. As we process underlying issues, my hope is that you start to experience a sense of greater agency, self-worth and authenticity.
(310) 362-5249 View (310) 362-5249
Photo of Catriona Waters, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catriona Waters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
I use a combination of evidence-based therapies - CBT, EMDR (eye movement therapy), and ego states (similar to IFS) - to achieve positive, long lasting results.
If you feel the constant presence of stress, anxiety, and worry in your body, suffer from ruminating or negative thoughts, struggle to make a decision, or feel low, then I can help. We'll not only treat your symptoms but we'll look at where they started and treat them at the source. You may have tried a number of ways to manage your thoughts and feelings but nothing really sticks. I can help you get your symptoms under control so they no longer impact you. You'll start to feel better, and function better, so you can get back to your real self.
I use a combination of evidence-based therapies - CBT, EMDR (eye movement therapy), and ego states (similar to IFS) - to achieve positive, long lasting results.
If you feel the constant presence of stress, anxiety, and worry in your body, suffer from ruminating or negative thoughts, struggle to make a decision, or feel low, then I can help. We'll not only treat your symptoms but we'll look at where they started and treat them at the source. You may have tried a number of ways to manage your thoughts and feelings but nothing really sticks. I can help you get your symptoms under control so they no longer impact you. You'll start to feel better, and function better, so you can get back to your real self.
(818) 960-1240 View (818) 960-1240
Photo of Sayun Scotton | Holistic Psychotherapy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sayun Scotton | Holistic Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
I'm an approved IFS clinical consultant and am certified in IFS and EMDR.
The capacity for healing resides in everyone. Therapy is about unhooking from self-limiting adaptive patterns, while cultivating self-acceptance and reconnecting with essential wise parts of yourself. I work with men and women using a depth-oriented, body-mind approach to explore the complexity of identity and relationships. My aim is to help you understand from an embodied perspective the deeper dynamics of your struggle, strengthen the parts inside of you that can move beyond it and engage in life with a greater sense of meaning, strength, and self-compassion.
I'm an approved IFS clinical consultant and am certified in IFS and EMDR.
The capacity for healing resides in everyone. Therapy is about unhooking from self-limiting adaptive patterns, while cultivating self-acceptance and reconnecting with essential wise parts of yourself. I work with men and women using a depth-oriented, body-mind approach to explore the complexity of identity and relationships. My aim is to help you understand from an embodied perspective the deeper dynamics of your struggle, strengthen the parts inside of you that can move beyond it and engage in life with a greater sense of meaning, strength, and self-compassion.
(323) 741-2281 View (323) 741-2281
Photo of Lauren Permenter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren Permenter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91105
Our work will be influenced by Internal Family Systems & EMDR to address root causes of current issues.
You make it through the day to day but inside you’re fearful, anxious or depressed. You’re bottling things up and lashing out at seemingly insignificant things later. The demands of your job & personal life are starting to feel like too much to juggle even though you’ve always been good at juggling it all. It doesn’t seem like something you can talk about. Everyone thinks you have it all together and besides you feel ashamed. Holding all this in is starting to make you feel lonely. You know life should be different but you’re overwhelmed and you wonder how everyone else seems to do it so easily.
Our work will be influenced by Internal Family Systems & EMDR to address root causes of current issues.
You make it through the day to day but inside you’re fearful, anxious or depressed. You’re bottling things up and lashing out at seemingly insignificant things later. The demands of your job & personal life are starting to feel like too much to juggle even though you’ve always been good at juggling it all. It doesn’t seem like something you can talk about. Everyone thinks you have it all together and besides you feel ashamed. Holding all this in is starting to make you feel lonely. You know life should be different but you’re overwhelmed and you wonder how everyone else seems to do it so easily.
(323) 443-1806 View (323) 443-1806
Photo of Karen Martin Fiedler, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Martin Fiedler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101  (Online Only)
Brainspotting and EMDR are two modalities to help the brain reprocess painful or traumatic experiences to bring healing and free you from being endlessly triggered and stuck.
Life is all about relationships! From the moment we are born to the last breath, we are embedded in relationships...it is the very essence of life. Yet, sometimes they are the most difficult to navigate through with confusing twists and turns that leave us feeling cut off and alone from the very ones we need and love. Often, we can see what it is we want, but have no idea of how to get there because we are stuck or blocked from moving forward. I can help you to remove these obstacles by utilizing Brainspotting (www.Brainspotting.com) or EMDR (www.EMDRIA.org).
Brainspotting and EMDR are two modalities to help the brain reprocess painful or traumatic experiences to bring healing and free you from being endlessly triggered and stuck.
Life is all about relationships! From the moment we are born to the last breath, we are embedded in relationships...it is the very essence of life. Yet, sometimes they are the most difficult to navigate through with confusing twists and turns that leave us feeling cut off and alone from the very ones we need and love. Often, we can see what it is we want, but have no idea of how to get there because we are stuck or blocked from moving forward. I can help you to remove these obstacles by utilizing Brainspotting (www.Brainspotting.com) or EMDR (www.EMDRIA.org).
(626) 722-5680 View (626) 722-5680
Photo of Ledette Gambini, MA, LMFT, RPT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ledette Gambini
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, RPT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106
I am a Registered Play Therapist and EMDR trained.
I have extensive experience working with families who are currently fostering a child or have built their family through adoption. I use a trauma informed and neurodevelopmental lens in all of my work, and understand how in utero and early developmental trauma affect children in many areas of their life. As a former foster parent and now an adoptive mom, I further understands how close relationships are created through a sense of safety and trust.
I am a Registered Play Therapist and EMDR trained.
I have extensive experience working with families who are currently fostering a child or have built their family through adoption. I use a trauma informed and neurodevelopmental lens in all of my work, and understand how in utero and early developmental trauma affect children in many areas of their life. As a former foster parent and now an adoptive mom, I further understands how close relationships are created through a sense of safety and trust.
(626) 658-3144 View (626) 658-3144
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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.