EMDR Therapists in Playa Del Rey, CA

Photo of Christine Sarkissian - No Limit Trauma Specialty Group, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
No Limit Trauma Specialty Group
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293  (Online Only)
Greetings, my name is Christine, owner/trauma specialist at No Limit Trauma Specialty Group exclusively focused on trauma treatment (EMDR, Seeking Safety, and Individual Psychotherapy services in California). Our main goal in therapy is to help client's find their true identity by identifying and processing the root cause of all present-day challenges. We may have a wealth of knowledge, we may have a diverse amount of professional experiences, but at the end of day each person is the true expert of their own lives.
Greetings, my name is Christine, owner/trauma specialist at No Limit Trauma Specialty Group exclusively focused on trauma treatment (EMDR, Seeking Safety, and Individual Psychotherapy services in California). Our main goal in therapy is to help client's find their true identity by identifying and processing the root cause of all present-day challenges. We may have a wealth of knowledge, we may have a diverse amount of professional experiences, but at the end of day each person is the true expert of their own lives.
(323) 475-7311 View (323) 475-7311
Photo of Shannon M. Kalberg, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon M. Kalberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Drawing on my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, and somatic work, I blend a pragmatic approach with an experiential one.
Everyone experiences challenges from time to time, but when the tough times are starting to outweigh the good times or you keep seeing the same patterns repeat over and over in your life, you may want to consider seeking help. I am here not to give you advice, but to help you learn to listen to and trust yourself deeply and fully so that you can live the kind of life you've always wanted.
Drawing on my training in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, and somatic work, I blend a pragmatic approach with an experiential one.
Everyone experiences challenges from time to time, but when the tough times are starting to outweigh the good times or you keep seeing the same patterns repeat over and over in your life, you may want to consider seeking help. I am here not to give you advice, but to help you learn to listen to and trust yourself deeply and fully so that you can live the kind of life you've always wanted.
(310) 906-4176 View (310) 906-4176
Photo of Desiree Basl, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Desiree Basl
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
In addition to traditional talk therapy focusing on attachment-based work, I incorporate mind-body modalities such as EMDR and somatic work to support individual goals.
Are you looking to remove the obstacles that stand in the way of achieving well-being and live your most authentic and connected life? In the work with clients, it is my job to support you through a supportive therapeutic relationship. Whether you are coming in to process a relationship, attachment trauma, increased anxiety or depression or struggling with life transitions, I am here to help provide you with a safe space to reach your goals.
In addition to traditional talk therapy focusing on attachment-based work, I incorporate mind-body modalities such as EMDR and somatic work to support individual goals.
Are you looking to remove the obstacles that stand in the way of achieving well-being and live your most authentic and connected life? In the work with clients, it is my job to support you through a supportive therapeutic relationship. Whether you are coming in to process a relationship, attachment trauma, increased anxiety or depression or struggling with life transitions, I am here to help provide you with a safe space to reach your goals.
(424) 378-5129 View (424) 378-5129
Photo of Isabella Dutra, MA, APCC, Pre-Licensed Professional
Isabella Dutra
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
I utilize modalities such as psychodynamic psychotherapy (understanding how one's past influences their present), somatic psychotherapy (increasing the brain-body connection) and, when appropriate, EMDR (effectively reprocessing traumatic or “stuck” memories).
I specialize in working with individual’s dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and issues stemming from ADHD. I work with children, adolescents, and adults as well as couples and families. I also have extensive experience working with individuals with social anxiety and ASD. I strive to provide clients with a safe, compassionate, judgement-free space in which we work together to understand one's unique goals and deeper rooted needs. I welcome all my clients to show up as they are, my job being to meet you there and help you move forward.
I utilize modalities such as psychodynamic psychotherapy (understanding how one's past influences their present), somatic psychotherapy (increasing the brain-body connection) and, when appropriate, EMDR (effectively reprocessing traumatic or “stuck” memories).
I specialize in working with individual’s dealing with trauma, depression, anxiety, relationship challenges, and issues stemming from ADHD. I work with children, adolescents, and adults as well as couples and families. I also have extensive experience working with individuals with social anxiety and ASD. I strive to provide clients with a safe, compassionate, judgement-free space in which we work together to understand one's unique goals and deeper rooted needs. I welcome all my clients to show up as they are, my job being to meet you there and help you move forward.
(310) 692-7980 View (310) 692-7980
Photo of Katrina Paulino - Well Thought Space, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Well Thought Space
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Our entire team provides trauma-informed care, utilizing EMDR & other approaches to help clients truly achieve a sense of peace and connection.
We are a diverse group therapy practice serving Los Angeles since 2012. We are currently working with clients on attachment & trauma work (including dissociation), anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, and goal development/personal growth. We have clinicians who specialize in working with adults, kids & teens, families as well as couples. We offer both in-person sessions at our Playa del Rey and Santa Monica locations, as well as virtual sessions.
Our entire team provides trauma-informed care, utilizing EMDR & other approaches to help clients truly achieve a sense of peace and connection.
We are a diverse group therapy practice serving Los Angeles since 2012. We are currently working with clients on attachment & trauma work (including dissociation), anxiety and depression, relationship challenges, and goal development/personal growth. We have clinicians who specialize in working with adults, kids & teens, families as well as couples. We offer both in-person sessions at our Playa del Rey and Santa Monica locations, as well as virtual sessions.
(424) 480-5469 View (424) 480-5469
Photo of Alexa Aversano, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alexa Aversano
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
I offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy in addition to trauma-informed care.
In my work with adolescents, adults, families, and couples utilizing an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from a variety of therapeutic modalities to best support the unique needs of each client. I offer LGBTQ+-aligned and culturally compassionate therapy. It is essential that each individual feels validated and respected throughout their therapeutic journey. I strive to provide a welcoming and safe space for anyone wanting to improve their emotional health and personal well-being.
I offer EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy in addition to trauma-informed care.
In my work with adolescents, adults, families, and couples utilizing an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from a variety of therapeutic modalities to best support the unique needs of each client. I offer LGBTQ+-aligned and culturally compassionate therapy. It is essential that each individual feels validated and respected throughout their therapeutic journey. I strive to provide a welcoming and safe space for anyone wanting to improve their emotional health and personal well-being.
(747) 204-3322 View (747) 204-3322
Photo of Jessica Gallo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Gallo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293  (Online Only)
Together, we can make sense of the messiness of life. My treatment approach is strengths-based, authentic, holistic, collaborative & highly customized to each client. In sessions, you can expect to be equipped with practical tools, observations, insights and nurturing containment. You can expect an honest, connected relationship where both laughter and tears are welcomed. Our work will allow you to build on your innate resiliency. Connecting with a professional therapist can shed light on what may need to shift in order to heal and align with the healthiest version of you.
Together, we can make sense of the messiness of life. My treatment approach is strengths-based, authentic, holistic, collaborative & highly customized to each client. In sessions, you can expect to be equipped with practical tools, observations, insights and nurturing containment. You can expect an honest, connected relationship where both laughter and tears are welcomed. Our work will allow you to build on your innate resiliency. Connecting with a professional therapist can shed light on what may need to shift in order to heal and align with the healthiest version of you.
(424) 372-0962 View (424) 372-0962
Photo of Saralyn Masselink, LCSW, CGP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Saralyn Masselink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Many of us feel a longing for a more satisfying life but are unsure of how to get there, or feel stymied by anger, shame, anxiety, or grief.
Many of us feel a longing for a more satisfying life but are unsure of how to get there, or feel stymied by anger, shame, anxiety, or grief.
(310) 730-8158 View (310) 730-8158
Photo of Shannon M Kalberg - Westside Therapy Collective, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Westside Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
If you are looking for long-term change and a team of highly effective therapists, look no further. We believe that therapy begins with finding the right fit with the perfect therapist who takes a collaborative and holistic approach. Our team incorporates techniques from cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness, and motivational therapy. Please contact Shannon Kalberg, LMFT to book a free 20-minute phone consultation.
(844) 592-0133 View (844) 592-0133
Photo of Molly Mitchell-Hardt Field, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Molly Mitchell-Hardt Field
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Playa Del Rey, CA 90291  (Online Only)
If we are lucky in this life we will experience many inner deaths, each an opportunity to shed parts of self, to embrace our own expansion, and enter the next dimension of life. If we fail to die, we fail to grow. We have lost the ritual container that holds our rites of passage and without the containment and guidance that goes with it many of us feel lost, hopeless, deficient in some way and without a sense of belonging. Therapy in the depth tradition has become a space to compassionately witness and accompany individuals in the alchemical process of healing and growth.
If we are lucky in this life we will experience many inner deaths, each an opportunity to shed parts of self, to embrace our own expansion, and enter the next dimension of life. If we fail to die, we fail to grow. We have lost the ritual container that holds our rites of passage and without the containment and guidance that goes with it many of us feel lost, hopeless, deficient in some way and without a sense of belonging. Therapy in the depth tradition has become a space to compassionately witness and accompany individuals in the alchemical process of healing and growth.
(310) 361-4680 View (310) 361-4680
Photo of Marisa Faynsod, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Marisa Faynsod
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Playa Del Rey, CA 90293
Not accepting new clients
***I AM CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS****** Uncertainty can bring up our unresolved issues and fear can keep us paralyzed. I can help you manage these feelings. Together we can identify what you can control and create concrete ways to overcome emotions that cause distress.
***I AM CURRENTLY NOT ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS****** Uncertainty can bring up our unresolved issues and fear can keep us paralyzed. I can help you manage these feelings. Together we can identify what you can control and create concrete ways to overcome emotions that cause distress.
(424) 383-5874 View (424) 383-5874

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Nancy Hyland, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nancy Hyland
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291
I have specialized training in EMDR, which was designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories; DBT which helps identify thoughts, beliefs, and assumptions that make life harder; Sensorimotor Psychotherapy which is a body-centered therapy that can help relieve the negative effects of trauma and emotional pain.
Life is challenging, especially when you are overwhelmed by distressing thoughts and feelings. Whether you're dealing with a past trauma or current stressor, I can help relieve persistent sadness, grief or anxiety. I have extensive experience utilizing the latest techniques, based in neuroscience, to assist people struggling with emotional distress, low self esteem, relationship issues, trauma & violence, disordered eating & substance abuse. I can help ensure your past doesn't dictate your future, as together we address the underlying causes of your distress, in a safe and supportive environment that honors your individual needs, values, beliefs, and goals.
I have specialized training in EMDR, which was designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories; DBT which helps identify thoughts, beliefs, and assumptions that make life harder; Sensorimotor Psychotherapy which is a body-centered therapy that can help relieve the negative effects of trauma and emotional pain.
Life is challenging, especially when you are overwhelmed by distressing thoughts and feelings. Whether you're dealing with a past trauma or current stressor, I can help relieve persistent sadness, grief or anxiety. I have extensive experience utilizing the latest techniques, based in neuroscience, to assist people struggling with emotional distress, low self esteem, relationship issues, trauma & violence, disordered eating & substance abuse. I can help ensure your past doesn't dictate your future, as together we address the underlying causes of your distress, in a safe and supportive environment that honors your individual needs, values, beliefs, and goals.
(310) 494-7127 View (310) 494-7127
Photo of Philip Champagne, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Philip Champagne
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Culver City, CA 90066
I take a holistic approach that is tailored to the specific needs of each client, incorporating humanistic, CBT, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and EMDR.
As a gay man and transplant to LA from a conservative, religious community, I understand the ways feeling different can color your world, and how frustrating it is when the world tries to deny your experiences. If you feel unloveable, or misunderstood, if you’re questioning your identity, or coping with past traumas - I can help you. I am a specialist in LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety and depression, religious trauma, healing from trauma, and men's issues. I hold an MA from Antioch University Los Angeles, with an LGBTQ+ Affirmative concentration.
I take a holistic approach that is tailored to the specific needs of each client, incorporating humanistic, CBT, narrative therapy, mindfulness, and EMDR.
As a gay man and transplant to LA from a conservative, religious community, I understand the ways feeling different can color your world, and how frustrating it is when the world tries to deny your experiences. If you feel unloveable, or misunderstood, if you’re questioning your identity, or coping with past traumas - I can help you. I am a specialist in LGBTQ+ issues, anxiety and depression, religious trauma, healing from trauma, and men's issues. I hold an MA from Antioch University Los Angeles, with an LGBTQ+ Affirmative concentration.
(323) 879-7384 View (323) 879-7384
Photo of Allison M Stepka, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison M Stepka
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I have extensive experience providing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD/anxiety, I am trained in EMDR for trauma, and I am the author of ACT Your Way to the Life You Love - available on Amazon.
Perhaps you're down or anxious, maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you are meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by changing your relationship with your thoughts, feelings, and yourself by utilizing an Acceptance and Commitment Therapeutic Approach. Together, you can take the next step to a better future!
I have extensive experience providing Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) for OCD/anxiety, I am trained in EMDR for trauma, and I am the author of ACT Your Way to the Life You Love - available on Amazon.
Perhaps you're down or anxious, maybe you're unsure about the future of a relationship, or just feel that you aren't living the life you are meant to lead. Whatever your needs may be, I am here to offer support. Therapy is a process of growth and self-discovery, and in my sessions I promote behavioral transformation by changing your relationship with your thoughts, feelings, and yourself by utilizing an Acceptance and Commitment Therapeutic Approach. Together, you can take the next step to a better future!
(424) 484-6902 View (424) 484-6902
Photo of Bonnie Banafsheh Shayeg, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Bonnie Banafsheh Shayeg
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Venice, CA 90291  (Online Only)
After 10 years of providing talk therapy with clients, I see the magical benefit of EMDR therapy in helping my clients do amazing reprocessing internally without having to depend on me more than themselves.
Hi there lovers. You want to feel understood and connected socially and personally. It's important for you to explore your raw self without guilt or shame, yet most of us don't have that luxury. The goal of therapy is self exploration and awareness, recognizing conditionings, traumas, and learned patterns keeping you looping. People feel most benefit from therapy when they are ready to put in work outside the session as much as in the session. I use humor, empathy and directness to give you a stable yet direct support system to help navigate your life towards satisfaction and feeling fulfilled.
After 10 years of providing talk therapy with clients, I see the magical benefit of EMDR therapy in helping my clients do amazing reprocessing internally without having to depend on me more than themselves.
Hi there lovers. You want to feel understood and connected socially and personally. It's important for you to explore your raw self without guilt or shame, yet most of us don't have that luxury. The goal of therapy is self exploration and awareness, recognizing conditionings, traumas, and learned patterns keeping you looping. People feel most benefit from therapy when they are ready to put in work outside the session as much as in the session. I use humor, empathy and directness to give you a stable yet direct support system to help navigate your life towards satisfaction and feeling fulfilled.
(424) 552-4598 View (424) 552-4598
Photo of Janeen Locker, PhD, EMDR, Psychologist
Janeen Locker
Psychologist, PhD, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Venice, CA 90291
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice with over 28 years of education and experience. I provide an opportunity to make changes in your life even if you have tried therapy before. My training has been in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, clinical hypnosis and EMDR (Level 1 and 2 EMDRIA certified practitioner). I have completed both APA approved predoctoral and postdoctoral interships through Yale University. Please call to arrange an appointment if you are interested in working through patterns, gaining new tools and making changes.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in private practice with over 28 years of education and experience. I provide an opportunity to make changes in your life even if you have tried therapy before. My training has been in cognitive behavioral therapy, dialectical behavior therapy, psychodynamic psychotherapy, clinical hypnosis and EMDR (Level 1 and 2 EMDRIA certified practitioner). I have completed both APA approved predoctoral and postdoctoral interships through Yale University. Please call to arrange an appointment if you are interested in working through patterns, gaining new tools and making changes.
(310) 850-3933 View (310) 850-3933
Photo of Dr. Todd Adamson - Todd Adamson, PsyD, ABPP, PsyD, ABPP, Psychologist
Todd Adamson, PsyD, ABPP
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90405
I integrate CBT, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic therapy, as well as EMDR, Gottman Couple therapy, and Parent Management Training to remove the barriers holding you back in order to thrive and enjoy life.
In working with a therapist, it's important to feel seen, heard, and understood, as well as feel confident your therapist can effectively help you. I invite you to reach out and see if I am the right therapist for you. I support adults experiencing anxiety, depression, work and life transitional stress, as well as trauma. I help couples improve communication, connect deeper, and work through conflict. My work with teens helps them navigate anxiety, ADD, school pressure, and social anxiety. I also specialize in working with elite performers in sport, entertainment, and business.
I integrate CBT, Mindfulness, and Psychodynamic therapy, as well as EMDR, Gottman Couple therapy, and Parent Management Training to remove the barriers holding you back in order to thrive and enjoy life.
In working with a therapist, it's important to feel seen, heard, and understood, as well as feel confident your therapist can effectively help you. I invite you to reach out and see if I am the right therapist for you. I support adults experiencing anxiety, depression, work and life transitional stress, as well as trauma. I help couples improve communication, connect deeper, and work through conflict. My work with teens helps them navigate anxiety, ADD, school pressure, and social anxiety. I also specialize in working with elite performers in sport, entertainment, and business.
(323) 476-1930 View (323) 476-1930
Photo of Sylvia Messina Bercovici, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sylvia Messina Bercovici
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I use individual psychotherapy, EMDR,* mindfulness meditation, and somatic therapy in the self-healing mind approach.
I am interested in treating people whose potential is hindered by negative concepts of themselves imprinted in childhood (through traumatic experiences or neglect of basic emotional needs) and who frequently suffer from symptoms like chronic depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. I am committed to helping these individuals attain a sense of self that brings them happiness and fulfillment. My basic perspective is that the human mind possesses the capacity to heal itself, if guided in the right way. I have explored various methods and approaches to helping the mind restore its basic wholeness.
I use individual psychotherapy, EMDR,* mindfulness meditation, and somatic therapy in the self-healing mind approach.
I am interested in treating people whose potential is hindered by negative concepts of themselves imprinted in childhood (through traumatic experiences or neglect of basic emotional needs) and who frequently suffer from symptoms like chronic depression, anxiety and low self-esteem. I am committed to helping these individuals attain a sense of self that brings them happiness and fulfillment. My basic perspective is that the human mind possesses the capacity to heal itself, if guided in the right way. I have explored various methods and approaches to helping the mind restore its basic wholeness.
(310) 340-7125 View (310) 340-7125
Photo of Rebecca Gorin, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Gorin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90066
I incorporate EMDR and a somatic based approach called Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, which encompasses the mind, body and emotions.
Do you experience overwhelming thoughts and/or emotions? Do you experience inner-conflict and self doubt? Do you find yourself stuck in old patterns/behaviors and unsure of how to change them? For many these experiences can result in feeling frustrated, scared, hopeless and alone, often coping in self-damaging ways. These are normal responses to trauma and overwhelming/painful experiences. While I incorporate more traditional evidenced based modalities such as CBT, and DBT, I also recognize that emotions, implicit memories and trauma can get stuck in the body, which is why talk therapy alone often isn’t enough.
I incorporate EMDR and a somatic based approach called Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, which encompasses the mind, body and emotions.
Do you experience overwhelming thoughts and/or emotions? Do you experience inner-conflict and self doubt? Do you find yourself stuck in old patterns/behaviors and unsure of how to change them? For many these experiences can result in feeling frustrated, scared, hopeless and alone, often coping in self-damaging ways. These are normal responses to trauma and overwhelming/painful experiences. While I incorporate more traditional evidenced based modalities such as CBT, and DBT, I also recognize that emotions, implicit memories and trauma can get stuck in the body, which is why talk therapy alone often isn’t enough.
(424) 276-1096 View (424) 276-1096
Photo of Erica Walker, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erica Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90066  (Online Only)
I integrate decades of studying the mind-body connection and trauma held in the body using EMDR, Pain Reprocessing Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Gestalt awareness.
If you are struggling with chronic pain, I empathize with your frustration, anxiety and despair. I specialize in working with clients who are challenged by chronic pain, anxiety and trauma. Oftentimes, these three are closely related.
I integrate decades of studying the mind-body connection and trauma held in the body using EMDR, Pain Reprocessing Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Gestalt awareness.
If you are struggling with chronic pain, I empathize with your frustration, anxiety and despair. I specialize in working with clients who are challenged by chronic pain, anxiety and trauma. Oftentimes, these three are closely related.
(310) 997-4180 View (310) 997-4180

See more therapy options for Playa Del Rey

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.