Therapists in Pico Rivera, CA

Photo of Stephanie Doss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Doss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
I have training in EMDR and am working on becoming a certified EMDR therapist.
I have worked with clients in areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, loss, co-dependency, OCD, parenting, work issues, trauma, sexuality, and struggles related to religion/faith. I work with adults of all ages. I typically work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, and OCD. I have walked with many clients facing challenges in their grief, spirituality, health, and role changes. I work on creating a calm, inviting, and accepting space during my sessions. I communicate openly and also know the importance of being a good listener.
I have training in EMDR and am working on becoming a certified EMDR therapist.
I have worked with clients in areas such as anxiety, depression, grief, loss, co-dependency, OCD, parenting, work issues, trauma, sexuality, and struggles related to religion/faith. I work with adults of all ages. I typically work with people struggling with anxiety, depression, and OCD. I have walked with many clients facing challenges in their grief, spirituality, health, and role changes. I work on creating a calm, inviting, and accepting space during my sessions. I communicate openly and also know the importance of being a good listener.
(562) 784-4997 View (562) 784-4997
Photo of Ofelia Neri, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ofelia Neri
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
Sometimes personal or interpersonal issues are too difficult to resolve on our own without faith and professional assistance. I earned a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology to help people to resolve their issues and heal. Utilizing Faith-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR I help couples reconcile and heal from infidelity, and individuals heal from trauma, anxiety, or self-esteem issues. If you’re looking for a therapist who PRAYS WITH YOU as she walks with you in your JOURNEY of HEALING, CHANGE and GROWTH, then give me a call. Our services are on a sliding fee scale.
Sometimes personal or interpersonal issues are too difficult to resolve on our own without faith and professional assistance. I earned a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology and a Master of Arts in Pastoral Theology to help people to resolve their issues and heal. Utilizing Faith-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR I help couples reconcile and heal from infidelity, and individuals heal from trauma, anxiety, or self-esteem issues. If you’re looking for a therapist who PRAYS WITH YOU as she walks with you in your JOURNEY of HEALING, CHANGE and GROWTH, then give me a call. Our services are on a sliding fee scale.
(323) 416-2530 View (323) 416-2530
Photo of Alexandra Duran, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexandra Duran
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
Hello, my name Is Alexandra (Ali) Duran, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Fresno, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I help adolescents and adults who struggle with depression and anxiety learn to regulate their challenging emotions, develop new life skills, process their history of trauma/loss, and find joy and meaning in life. I also help couples strengthen their bond with one another, improve their overall communication, and explore their joint needs, responsibilities, and dreams/goals for the future.
Hello, my name Is Alexandra (Ali) Duran, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) based in Fresno, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I help adolescents and adults who struggle with depression and anxiety learn to regulate their challenging emotions, develop new life skills, process their history of trauma/loss, and find joy and meaning in life. I also help couples strengthen their bond with one another, improve their overall communication, and explore their joint needs, responsibilities, and dreams/goals for the future.
(562) 561-2738 View (562) 561-2738
Photo of Megan Matthewson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Megan Matthewson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
Hi, I'm Megan Mathewson. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that people have an innate capacity to heal and make desired changes in their lives, but the work of personal and relational growth can be difficult and doesn’t have to be done alone. I offer a safe and supportive space where we can work together on creating what you want to see in your life. I have worked with children, adolescents, parents, adults and families for over 10 years. I have worked with people who experience depression, anxiety, stress, trauma (and other adverse experiences), parenting, and relational challenges.
Hi, I'm Megan Mathewson. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I believe that people have an innate capacity to heal and make desired changes in their lives, but the work of personal and relational growth can be difficult and doesn’t have to be done alone. I offer a safe and supportive space where we can work together on creating what you want to see in your life. I have worked with children, adolescents, parents, adults and families for over 10 years. I have worked with people who experience depression, anxiety, stress, trauma (and other adverse experiences), parenting, and relational challenges.
(858) 758-8557 View (858) 758-8557
Photo of Cassidy Phuong Pham, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassidy Phuong Pham
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
Imagine a ghost who is haunting a person when they are most vulnerable to taking control of them. This is the way trauma shows up in our lives. It slowly reveals itself, and every encounter is scarier than the previous one. Furthermore, no one else can validate this experience because they cannot see the ghost at first, which leads the person to feel alone, isolated, and vulnerable. I can come alongside you as you overcome this ghost. You can overcome your trauma in therapy with a safe and supportive environment to take on whatever it is that is haunting you.
Imagine a ghost who is haunting a person when they are most vulnerable to taking control of them. This is the way trauma shows up in our lives. It slowly reveals itself, and every encounter is scarier than the previous one. Furthermore, no one else can validate this experience because they cannot see the ghost at first, which leads the person to feel alone, isolated, and vulnerable. I can come alongside you as you overcome this ghost. You can overcome your trauma in therapy with a safe and supportive environment to take on whatever it is that is haunting you.
(559) 657-6988 View (559) 657-6988
Photo of Janet Ambriz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janet Ambriz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or just stuck? Are you having trouble setting boundaries, communicating your needs or prioritizing yourself? Therapy could be the perfect space for you to heal, grow and improve your life and relationships. I am passionate about helping you on that journey and providing care for your unique needs. You too can gain an understanding of your feelings, learn to cope with difficult situations, heal from past and current conflicts and improve relationships.
Are you feeling overwhelmed, stressed or just stuck? Are you having trouble setting boundaries, communicating your needs or prioritizing yourself? Therapy could be the perfect space for you to heal, grow and improve your life and relationships. I am passionate about helping you on that journey and providing care for your unique needs. You too can gain an understanding of your feelings, learn to cope with difficult situations, heal from past and current conflicts and improve relationships.
(562) 262-5098 View (562) 262-5098
Photo of Cheri Abbott, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheri Abbott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pico Rivera, CA 90660
(760) 374-4136 View (760) 374-4136

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Janice Huston, LPCC
Janice Huston
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Lakewood, CA 90712
I was recently trained in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization reprocessing) that I utilize as a tool in therapy to help my clients process their traumatic experiences to decrease the emotional charge associated with them and ultimately decrease mental health symptoms in general.
My name is Janice Huston and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California. I have been practicing for the past 9 years and specialize in working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, relationship issues such as codependency as well as are interested in self-discovery. I work with adults who experience various types of anxiety, depression, relationship issues such as codependency, are looking to better understand themselves, going through life transitions, unhappy in their career or with their life choices leaving them feeling stuck.
I was recently trained in EMDR (Eye movement desensitization reprocessing) that I utilize as a tool in therapy to help my clients process their traumatic experiences to decrease the emotional charge associated with them and ultimately decrease mental health symptoms in general.
My name is Janice Huston and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California. I have been practicing for the past 9 years and specialize in working with clients who experience anxiety, depression, relationship issues such as codependency as well as are interested in self-discovery. I work with adults who experience various types of anxiety, depression, relationship issues such as codependency, are looking to better understand themselves, going through life transitions, unhappy in their career or with their life choices leaving them feeling stuck.
(909) 500-4263 View (909) 500-4263
Photo of David Ibrahim, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP, Marriage & Family Therapist
David Ibrahim
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LAADC, EMDR , EYRT500, ISTDP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91030
I am a Certified EMDR Consultant and ISTDP.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
I am a Certified EMDR Consultant and ISTDP.
Are past traumatic experiences, being an adult child of a dysfunctional home, incest survival experiences, addiction issues, phobia, panic, anxiety, C-PTSD or depression affecting your success? Are distractions impacting your optimal performance abilities at work, in your intimate relationships, or in relationships with family members or with yourself? Are you surviving instead of thriving? I provide accelerated Psychotherapy for individuals and couples who are challenged by performance loss and emotional unhappiness. Also offer Diagnosis evaluation for addiction, mood, personality, and adult Autism spectrum. HSP and Kink friendly.
(805) 420-7531 View (805) 420-7531
Photo of Alejandro Sandoval, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alejandro Sandoval
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
South Pasadena, CA 91031
I offer skills-based techniques, insight-oriented processing, EMDR and Brainspotting to help clients feel like themselves again.
Welcome to my practice! I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's complexities. Specializing in men's mental health, trauma healing, and family dynamics, I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions, experiences, and relationships.
I offer skills-based techniques, insight-oriented processing, EMDR and Brainspotting to help clients feel like themselves again.
Welcome to my practice! I am a dedicated therapist with a passion for helping individuals navigate life's complexities. Specializing in men's mental health, trauma healing, and family dynamics, I provide a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their emotions, experiences, and relationships.
(323) 375-1853 View (323) 375-1853
Photo of Georgina Kim Smith - Revolve Recovery Intensive Outpatient Center, PhD
Revolve Recovery Intensive Outpatient Center
PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90001
Revolve’s first path, TARILA, specializes in core trauma-focused individual and group therapy through evidence-based treatments EMDR & IFS, along with many other effective, trauma-focused modalities such as SE, Brainspotting, CRM, NARM, MAP, Family Constellation Therapy, and more.
Whether you just completed residential treatment, or you’re in sober or transitional living, or you’re independently seeking a more intensive therapy experience, Revolve Recovery’s trauma-focused intensive outpatient program tailors it’s dynamic, comprehensive, and innovative approaches to effectively treat those dealing with trauma, PTSD, complex trauma, addiction, and the spectrum of co-occurring disorders. Our clients come to Revolve yearning for deeper, more intensively focused trauma therapy, and yearning for tangible action and change, dynamic life and relational shifts, relief, and lasting healing.
Revolve’s first path, TARILA, specializes in core trauma-focused individual and group therapy through evidence-based treatments EMDR & IFS, along with many other effective, trauma-focused modalities such as SE, Brainspotting, CRM, NARM, MAP, Family Constellation Therapy, and more.
Whether you just completed residential treatment, or you’re in sober or transitional living, or you’re independently seeking a more intensive therapy experience, Revolve Recovery’s trauma-focused intensive outpatient program tailors it’s dynamic, comprehensive, and innovative approaches to effectively treat those dealing with trauma, PTSD, complex trauma, addiction, and the spectrum of co-occurring disorders. Our clients come to Revolve yearning for deeper, more intensively focused trauma therapy, and yearning for tangible action and change, dynamic life and relational shifts, relief, and lasting healing.
(424) 384-1373 View (424) 384-1373
Photo of Marni Glick, MBA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marni Glick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90011  (Online Only)
Have you ever had the feeling that not much of your life makes sense to you, you feel disconnected, as if you’re wandering without footing on the ground? Let’s work together to help explore who you were, who you are and who you want to be. We’ll use our work in therapy to help you feel more grounded, secure and confident in who you are and what you want. I believe in creating a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. My approach is client-centered, strength-based, and grounded in evidence-based practices, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Have you ever had the feeling that not much of your life makes sense to you, you feel disconnected, as if you’re wandering without footing on the ground? Let’s work together to help explore who you were, who you are and who you want to be. We’ll use our work in therapy to help you feel more grounded, secure and confident in who you are and what you want. I believe in creating a safe, supportive and non-judgmental environment where you can explore your thoughts and emotions freely. My approach is client-centered, strength-based, and grounded in evidence-based practices, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
(747) 271-4817 View (747) 271-4817
Photo of Weili Lin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Weili Lin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Gabriel, CA 91776
I'm an EMDR-certified and IFS-trained therapist with over 12 years of experience in neutralizing those emotional reactions you think "shouldn't" bother you anymore.
You're tired of the emotional barriers that keep you from a satisfying quality of life. Sometimes you wonder why you reacted so intensely to someone or something and you wish you could control your reaction. You're not afraid of digging deep and facing your feelings, but you just don't know how.
I'm an EMDR-certified and IFS-trained therapist with over 12 years of experience in neutralizing those emotional reactions you think "shouldn't" bother you anymore.
You're tired of the emotional barriers that keep you from a satisfying quality of life. Sometimes you wonder why you reacted so intensely to someone or something and you wish you could control your reaction. You're not afraid of digging deep and facing your feelings, but you just don't know how.
(626) 341-0900 View (626) 341-0900
Photo of Kelly Haven, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Haven
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90013
Among my areas of expertise are Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting, relational, and marital issues.
We all struggle at times to see our inner strengths and capabilities due to the life experiences which have shaped us. I work in the belief that we each have everything we need to achieve a fulfilled and successful life already present within us; sometimes we just need a little help accessing it. Using a multi-modality approach I encourage my clients to work in the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring us to self awareness, acceptance, and lasting change.
Among my areas of expertise are Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting, relational, and marital issues.
We all struggle at times to see our inner strengths and capabilities due to the life experiences which have shaped us. I work in the belief that we each have everything we need to achieve a fulfilled and successful life already present within us; sometimes we just need a little help accessing it. Using a multi-modality approach I encourage my clients to work in the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring us to self awareness, acceptance, and lasting change.
(707) 593-5669 View (707) 593-5669
Photo of Tobi Nishikawa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tobi Nishikawa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple City, CA 91780
Waitlist for new clients
I am an EMDR-certified therapist who is also extensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Aloha! I consider it an immense privilege to come alongside my clients to support them towards achieving their self-determined goals. Specializing in trauma, I am a holistic practitioner who incorporates multi-faceted approaches in a safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic environment. I have extensive experience working with marginalized populations and therefore, am able to consider the complexities of ethnicity, culture, societal systems and gender identity in my therapeutic work.
I am an EMDR-certified therapist who is also extensively trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy.
Aloha! I consider it an immense privilege to come alongside my clients to support them towards achieving their self-determined goals. Specializing in trauma, I am a holistic practitioner who incorporates multi-faceted approaches in a safe, nonjudgmental therapeutic environment. I have extensive experience working with marginalized populations and therefore, am able to consider the complexities of ethnicity, culture, societal systems and gender identity in my therapeutic work.
(323) 274-1689 View (323) 274-1689
Photo of Cynthia Rodriguez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
La Mirada, CA 90638
I am trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, FOCUS (Families Overcoming Under stress), Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy.
As we wonder how to navigate life, we may face several obstacles and challenges that can seem overwhelming or unbearable. As a Mental Health Professional, I am here to support people on how to successfully keep themselves afloat. I received my Bachelors degree in Psychology in 1997 from the Universidad de Guadalajara in Mexico, and after a couple of years treating people of all ages I decided to move to California to complete graduate school. I graduated with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology, with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University in 2006 and I have been licensed since 2012.
I am trained in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, FOCUS (Families Overcoming Under stress), Motivational Interviewing and Play Therapy.
As we wonder how to navigate life, we may face several obstacles and challenges that can seem overwhelming or unbearable. As a Mental Health Professional, I am here to support people on how to successfully keep themselves afloat. I received my Bachelors degree in Psychology in 1997 from the Universidad de Guadalajara in Mexico, and after a couple of years treating people of all ages I decided to move to California to complete graduate school. I graduated with a Master of Arts degree in Clinical Psychology, with emphasis in Marriage and Family Therapy from Pepperdine University in 2006 and I have been licensed since 2012.
(714) 463-1488 View (714) 463-1488
Photo of Elizabeth Sanchez, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Sanchez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Downey, CA 90239
Accepting EMDR consultees.
Now accepting new clients/telehealth. Are you tired of feeling stuck? I am here to provide a safe place where we work together to challenge your current thoughts and feelings. My goal as a therapist is to provide counseling services to a diverse population, including services in Spanish. I enjoy working along side clients who are driven to positively change their lives and are willing to take the initiative to reach their destination of a more fulfilling life. My specialty is utilizing a strength-based approach with adult clients around issues of intimacy, stress management, life transitions, & enhancing personal relationships.
Accepting EMDR consultees.
Now accepting new clients/telehealth. Are you tired of feeling stuck? I am here to provide a safe place where we work together to challenge your current thoughts and feelings. My goal as a therapist is to provide counseling services to a diverse population, including services in Spanish. I enjoy working along side clients who are driven to positively change their lives and are willing to take the initiative to reach their destination of a more fulfilling life. My specialty is utilizing a strength-based approach with adult clients around issues of intimacy, stress management, life transitions, & enhancing personal relationships.
(909) 443-1613 View (909) 443-1613
Photo of Rachel Ryan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Ryan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90021
Utilizing scientifically proven methods like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I offer the tools and guidance you need to conquer life’s toughest challenges and thrive.
Taking the first step towards therapy is a courageous response to the overwhelming pressure of daily life. I want to acknowledge the strength it takes to seek support when you feel burdened by unrealistic expectations or the weight of suppressed emotions. My approach is compassionate and warm, dedicated to guiding clients on their journey of healing and growth. Whether you're looking to build confidence, explore self-love, or find inner peace, know that you have a safe space with me to face and explore life's challenges.
Utilizing scientifically proven methods like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), I offer the tools and guidance you need to conquer life’s toughest challenges and thrive.
Taking the first step towards therapy is a courageous response to the overwhelming pressure of daily life. I want to acknowledge the strength it takes to seek support when you feel burdened by unrealistic expectations or the weight of suppressed emotions. My approach is compassionate and warm, dedicated to guiding clients on their journey of healing and growth. Whether you're looking to build confidence, explore self-love, or find inner peace, know that you have a safe space with me to face and explore life's challenges.
(424) 401-2901 View (424) 401-2901
Photo of Jeffrey T Middleton - Jeffrey T. Middleton, LCSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey T. Middleton, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Downey, CA 90241
I am trained in many approaches such as Interpersonal Therapy, Modern Analysis, Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR and Group Therapy.
I am a former Adjunct Faculty in the graduate program at Cal State Long Beach, and I have a small private practice with a few openings. I work with adults, couples and older teens to help them feel more free, alive and connected with others. Sometimes the work begins by decreasing symptoms such as anxiety, family conflict, depression, trauma reactions, etc. Once those symptoms decrease, the work often evolves into more personal growth work, such as exploring family of origin issues and/or barriers to deeper levels of connection and intimacy.
I am trained in many approaches such as Interpersonal Therapy, Modern Analysis, Family Systems, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused Therapy, EMDR and Group Therapy.
I am a former Adjunct Faculty in the graduate program at Cal State Long Beach, and I have a small private practice with a few openings. I work with adults, couples and older teens to help them feel more free, alive and connected with others. Sometimes the work begins by decreasing symptoms such as anxiety, family conflict, depression, trauma reactions, etc. Once those symptoms decrease, the work often evolves into more personal growth work, such as exploring family of origin issues and/or barriers to deeper levels of connection and intimacy.
(562) 276-2168 View (562) 276-2168
Photo of Jennifer Kalusa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Kalusa
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temple City, CA 91780
My name is Jen Kalusa, I'm an LMFT, and I specialize in working with adults looking for support in navigating traumatic experiences, relationships, self-discovery, and complex emotions. I believe each person has within them what they need to heal and to have emotional health and healthy relationships. I use a trauma-informed approach and am trained in EMDR, Flash technique, and havening to support individuals who are stuck because of a past trauma. I use parts work and Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals to help them heal and move toward experiencing secure, meaningful connection.
My name is Jen Kalusa, I'm an LMFT, and I specialize in working with adults looking for support in navigating traumatic experiences, relationships, self-discovery, and complex emotions. I believe each person has within them what they need to heal and to have emotional health and healthy relationships. I use a trauma-informed approach and am trained in EMDR, Flash technique, and havening to support individuals who are stuck because of a past trauma. I use parts work and Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals to help them heal and move toward experiencing secure, meaningful connection.
(805) 429-6223 View (805) 429-6223

See more therapy options for Pico Rivera

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.