EMDR Therapists in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

Photo of Lori Laurise E Trull, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lori Laurise E Trull
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I am a certified EMDR clinician with EMDRIA.
Certified EMDR Clinician seeking motivated Clients! Are you anxious? Depressed? Do you find it difficult to know what you need and want? Or to make decisions? Are you overeating or undereating? Are you fearful of social situations or returning to work? Are you angry or sad a lot? Grieving? These are just Some symptoms that EMDR may be able to alleviate. Life is too short to feel not well, call me today and, let’s begin your healing process!
I am a certified EMDR clinician with EMDRIA.
Certified EMDR Clinician seeking motivated Clients! Are you anxious? Depressed? Do you find it difficult to know what you need and want? Or to make decisions? Are you overeating or undereating? Are you fearful of social situations or returning to work? Are you angry or sad a lot? Grieving? These are just Some symptoms that EMDR may be able to alleviate. Life is too short to feel not well, call me today and, let’s begin your healing process!
(424) 677-1009 View (424) 677-1009
Photo of Callie Meyer-Lee, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Callie Meyer-Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I am trained in Gottman, EFT, family systems, mindfulness based practices, attachment-based therapy, and EMDR.
The decision to start seeing a therapist often comes after months, or even years, of emotional struggle. You may feel like you should be able to handle this on your own or you may be losing hope that things can get better at all. It takes courage, hope, and determination to reach out for help. This is why, as a therapist, I work hard from day one to make you feel comfortable, accepted, and heard. I want you to know that you are not alone and that I can help you get through this. My goal at the end of therapy is always for my clients to feel whole and healthy and deeply connected to the people around them.
I am trained in Gottman, EFT, family systems, mindfulness based practices, attachment-based therapy, and EMDR.
The decision to start seeing a therapist often comes after months, or even years, of emotional struggle. You may feel like you should be able to handle this on your own or you may be losing hope that things can get better at all. It takes courage, hope, and determination to reach out for help. This is why, as a therapist, I work hard from day one to make you feel comfortable, accepted, and heard. I want you to know that you are not alone and that I can help you get through this. My goal at the end of therapy is always for my clients to feel whole and healthy and deeply connected to the people around them.
(424) 404-8259 View (424) 404-8259
Photo of Susan W Brown, PhD, MA, Psychologist
Susan W Brown
Psychologist, PhD, MA
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Traumas from your past holding you back? I can help you overcome them with the gold standard for trauma treatment: EMDR. Dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or grief? I provide a caring, supportive atmosphere with which to help you face your issues and move forward. I am a Christian therapist who uses psychological tools and Biblical principles to help people improve their lives. I also have experience treating combat veterans with PTSD. I look forward to helping you make significant changes that will benefit your life. Call today for a free phone consultation.
Traumas from your past holding you back? I can help you overcome them with the gold standard for trauma treatment: EMDR. Dealing with depression, anxiety, relationship challenges or grief? I provide a caring, supportive atmosphere with which to help you face your issues and move forward. I am a Christian therapist who uses psychological tools and Biblical principles to help people improve their lives. I also have experience treating combat veterans with PTSD. I look forward to helping you make significant changes that will benefit your life. Call today for a free phone consultation.
(310) 627-2319 View (310) 627-2319
Photo of Beverly Jean Scott - Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor, BS, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Beverly Scott/Licensed Marriage Family Counselor
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
Suffer no more with depression, panic attacks, addictions, low self esteem and bad relationships, time to transform those close relationships into great ones whether at home or in the office.I use EMDR, brain spotting, hypnosis, codependence therapy, plus couples theories (certified Imago Therapist & Relationsl Life Therapist), joining all in loving communication. I love 12 step programs & have been trained & certified by the best in the field for addiction issues. . I am trained in mediation working for LA court as a mediator for divorcing couples using communication & collaborative methods. I have taught classes helping divorcing couples cope Good communication=love!
(424) 789-8455 View (424) 789-8455
Photo of Kelly Quach, LMFT, EMDR, CAMS-I, Supvsn, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Quach
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, CAMS-I, Supvsn
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
EMDR Trained Therapist.
Are you suffering from stress, depression, anxiety? Are you internally battling with unresolved trauma? Are you experiencing difficulty adjusting to changes in your life? Are you dating the "same" person you divorced three years ago? Do you feel like your partner or spouse does not understand you? Does your child is showing behaviors or attitudes that are concerning to you? I can help to guide you through this therapeutic journey so that you will integrate new skills for living, loving, relating, and ultimately leading the fulfilling life you desire.
EMDR Trained Therapist.
Are you suffering from stress, depression, anxiety? Are you internally battling with unresolved trauma? Are you experiencing difficulty adjusting to changes in your life? Are you dating the "same" person you divorced three years ago? Do you feel like your partner or spouse does not understand you? Does your child is showing behaviors or attitudes that are concerning to you? I can help to guide you through this therapeutic journey so that you will integrate new skills for living, loving, relating, and ultimately leading the fulfilling life you desire.
(714) 486-0283 View (714) 486-0283
Photo of Kate Naomi Aldridge, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Naomi Aldridge
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
I'm specially trained in Existential-Humanistic Therapy, EMDR, and Inner-Child Healing that helps unite the mind, body, and spirit.
One of my favorite song lyrics says, "I'm just a spirit trying to be human." There’s so much weight that lives inside those words: emotions, questions, uncertainty. For those of us who wander, question who we are, or wonder what our purpose is, we can stumble if life hasn’t met our expectations. The majority of my clients identify as misfits, empaths, spiritual beings, and highly sensitive people who have survived childhood trauma, harsh life transitions, and an occasional identity crisis.
I'm specially trained in Existential-Humanistic Therapy, EMDR, and Inner-Child Healing that helps unite the mind, body, and spirit.
One of my favorite song lyrics says, "I'm just a spirit trying to be human." There’s so much weight that lives inside those words: emotions, questions, uncertainty. For those of us who wander, question who we are, or wonder what our purpose is, we can stumble if life hasn’t met our expectations. The majority of my clients identify as misfits, empaths, spiritual beings, and highly sensitive people who have survived childhood trauma, harsh life transitions, and an occasional identity crisis.
(217) 651-4165 View (217) 651-4165
Photo of Megan Higinbotham, PhD, Psychologist
Megan Higinbotham
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
In addition to having a well-rounded educational and training background to treat a wide range of ages and symptoms, I also have specialized training in child development, as well as EMDR therapy to treat trauma in patients of all ages.
Life can be filled with stress, challenges, and anxiety, and sometimes we need help navigating through it all. As a Licensed Psychologist, my passion is to walk through the challenges of life with my patients. I provide a safe, caring, and supportive environment for individuals to process through their struggles and gain insight as they grow to reach their mental health goals. I engage with each individual to build strong rapport while identifying their root issues and working together to improve their well-being.
In addition to having a well-rounded educational and training background to treat a wide range of ages and symptoms, I also have specialized training in child development, as well as EMDR therapy to treat trauma in patients of all ages.
Life can be filled with stress, challenges, and anxiety, and sometimes we need help navigating through it all. As a Licensed Psychologist, my passion is to walk through the challenges of life with my patients. I provide a safe, caring, and supportive environment for individuals to process through their struggles and gain insight as they grow to reach their mental health goals. I engage with each individual to build strong rapport while identifying their root issues and working together to improve their well-being.
(310) 620-1829 View (310) 620-1829
Photo of Susie A Youssef, LCSW, MSW, MS CJ, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susie A Youssef
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, MS CJ
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
As a therapist who is trained in EMDR, I have worked with those with extensive, trauma related history.
I believe that throughout life’s most interesting journeys, whether painful, full of change, optimistic, or oppositional, it is often easier to have someone to walk with.  I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, major life adjustments, and grief, family and relationship issues. Some of the populations I have worked with include: Young adults, first-responders, premarital/couples, post-partum partners, and first generation students.
As a therapist who is trained in EMDR, I have worked with those with extensive, trauma related history.
I believe that throughout life’s most interesting journeys, whether painful, full of change, optimistic, or oppositional, it is often easier to have someone to walk with.  I work with individuals and couples who are experiencing anxiety, trauma, depression, major life adjustments, and grief, family and relationship issues. Some of the populations I have worked with include: Young adults, first-responders, premarital/couples, post-partum partners, and first generation students.
(424) 393-2690 View (424) 393-2690
Photo of Remi Bean - Remi Bean, LPCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Remi Bean
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
Whether you are looking for traditional talk therapy or a more structured approach like EMDR, I'm here to help! If it sounds like I may be a safe source of support for you, reach out to me for a free consultation.
Do you feel trapped and alone, with no one to talk to about your worries, fears, gender, or sexuality? Are you stuck in cycles of conflict with your loved ones that you can't break free from, or do you need to set boundaries with family or coworkers? A therapist is a safe person to support you with these very concerns. I will help you see past the lies that your anxiety, depression, or trauma tell you about yourself, so that you can see yourself with new eyes and learn to love and accept yourself as you are. Embracing yourself without judgment makes it easier to cope with life stress and conflict and to heal from trauma.
Whether you are looking for traditional talk therapy or a more structured approach like EMDR, I'm here to help! If it sounds like I may be a safe source of support for you, reach out to me for a free consultation.
Do you feel trapped and alone, with no one to talk to about your worries, fears, gender, or sexuality? Are you stuck in cycles of conflict with your loved ones that you can't break free from, or do you need to set boundaries with family or coworkers? A therapist is a safe person to support you with these very concerns. I will help you see past the lies that your anxiety, depression, or trauma tell you about yourself, so that you can see yourself with new eyes and learn to love and accept yourself as you are. Embracing yourself without judgment makes it easier to cope with life stress and conflict and to heal from trauma.
(510) 216-1873 View (510) 216-1873
Photo of Araceli Pimentel, MSW, ACSW
Araceli Pimentel
Associate Clinical Social Worker, MSW, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
My approach is holistic and grounded in psychodynamic, humanistic, and somatic orientations, I use a range of trauma modalities like Internal Family Systems (IFS), ( EMDR), Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Brainspotting (BSP), and more to tailor sessions to your unique needs.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings, build effective communication, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and marital/pre-marital issues.
My approach is holistic and grounded in psychodynamic, humanistic, and somatic orientations, I use a range of trauma modalities like Internal Family Systems (IFS), ( EMDR), Emotion Focused Couples Therapy (EFCT), Somatic Experiencing (SE), Brainspotting (BSP), and more to tailor sessions to your unique needs.
Are you feeling stuck in a cycle of conflict and misunderstanding in your relationships? Do you long for deeper connections but find yourself facing barriers you can't seem to overcome? As a therapist specializing in relationship issues, I am here to offer you a guiding hand on your journey towards healing and connection. With a warm, empathetic approach, I provide a safe and supportive space to explore your feelings, build effective communication, and foster healthier relationships. My focus areas include anxiety/depression, childhood trauma, PTSD, people-pleasing, perfectionism, and marital/pre-marital issues.
(626) 269-6747 View (626) 269-6747
Photo of Carol Francis - Counseling Adults, Children & Couples, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP, Psychologist
Counseling Adults, Children & Couples
Psychologist, PsyD, MAMFCT, CHYP
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
Some Adults, Teens and Children in our community face issues of stress, fear of underachieving, depression, body-image concerns, eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia or over-eating), relationship traumas (affairs, divorce, abuse, child custody battles), addictions. Other adults face unsettling retirement, empty nest syndrome, elder care concerns, serious illnesses, definite anxiety and feelings of meaninglessness. Couples become estranged: lacking in communication, connection and emotional or sexual intimacy. As a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Licensed Marriage, Family & Child Therapist and Counselor for over 30 years, Dr. Carol Francis uses multiple researched tools helping individuals, couples, and families create satisfaction and well-being.
(310) 421-2863 View (310) 421-2863
Photo of Jill M Wussler, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jill M Wussler
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
As we travel this journey of life, sometimes the way to health and wholeness is not too clear. During these times, it's helpful to have a partner to walk with you. I have been in practice for nearly twenty years, helping individuals, families, couples and groups facing a wide variety of challenges. I treat individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, job-related issues, grief, and religious trauma. I have advanced training in the treatment of trauma, both single incident and long-term.
As we travel this journey of life, sometimes the way to health and wholeness is not too clear. During these times, it's helpful to have a partner to walk with you. I have been in practice for nearly twenty years, helping individuals, families, couples and groups facing a wide variety of challenges. I treat individuals struggling with depression, anxiety, job-related issues, grief, and religious trauma. I have advanced training in the treatment of trauma, both single incident and long-term.
(310) 910-9978 View (310) 910-9978
Photo of Anna Askew, LPCC
Anna Askew
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
My name is Anna Askew, I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California, working with individual adults and couples statewide via telehealth. My main specialization is in anxiety, stress, and relationship and communication issues, using a holistic approach to therapy. I use different empirically based methodologies in accordance with the particular needs of each client. However, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are at the forefront of my interventions, as I have found them to be a good basis for building forward progress.
My name is Anna Askew, I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) in California, working with individual adults and couples statewide via telehealth. My main specialization is in anxiety, stress, and relationship and communication issues, using a holistic approach to therapy. I use different empirically based methodologies in accordance with the particular needs of each client. However, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy are at the forefront of my interventions, as I have found them to be a good basis for building forward progress.
(559) 254-0877 View (559) 254-0877
Photo of Carol Ann Francis, PsyD, MA, MFTT, CHT, Psychologist
Carol Ann Francis
Psychologist, PsyD, MA, MFTT, CHT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Relief from anxiety, depression, fears or angers gives you room to live your life fully. Self-improvement (your mind, body, self-esteem, capacity for satisfying/exciting relationships and powerful career advances) can move you leaps and bounds toward a richer, lively life. Eliminating habits (smoking, over-eating, lack of exercise, substances, etc) frees you to be you. Creating new paths after divorce, death, traumatic disruptions, leads toward a self-directed future. Through many different therapeutic approaches--well researched and tested-- you can attain your goals & dreams for your fuller, peaceful life. www.drcarolfrancis.com or call 310-543-1824.
Relief from anxiety, depression, fears or angers gives you room to live your life fully. Self-improvement (your mind, body, self-esteem, capacity for satisfying/exciting relationships and powerful career advances) can move you leaps and bounds toward a richer, lively life. Eliminating habits (smoking, over-eating, lack of exercise, substances, etc) frees you to be you. Creating new paths after divorce, death, traumatic disruptions, leads toward a self-directed future. Through many different therapeutic approaches--well researched and tested-- you can attain your goals & dreams for your fuller, peaceful life. www.drcarolfrancis.com or call 310-543-1824.
(424) 570-2143 View (424) 570-2143
Photo of Patricia Rayas-Tabres - Hillside Counseling Center, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hillside Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
Have you ever felt overwhelmed and just don't know what else to do? In therapy, I provide an environment in which you can feel safe and encouraged when working through relationship issues or to make changes when life has become too stressful. I will work with you to help bring back hope, peace, and balance into your life. Change may not be easy but it is possible. I speak Spanish fluently and have worked with individuals, couples and families for years honoring their journey, culture, and uniqueness.
(310) 907-8398 View (310) 907-8398
Photo of Taryn Feuerberg, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Taryn Feuerberg
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
I provide supportive therapy services to clients struggling with all kinds of issues, and all different levels of functioning. Whether you have several issues you wish to process in just a few sessions with an objective ear, or you have just been released from higher psychiatric levels of care, I have space and availability for you. I am very flexible sometimes seeing clients online or in person, sometimes once per month or once per week. My ideal clients strongly desire to change their lives, explore parts of themselves, or use our time and space to build on the hard work they have already done.
I provide supportive therapy services to clients struggling with all kinds of issues, and all different levels of functioning. Whether you have several issues you wish to process in just a few sessions with an objective ear, or you have just been released from higher psychiatric levels of care, I have space and availability for you. I am very flexible sometimes seeing clients online or in person, sometimes once per month or once per week. My ideal clients strongly desire to change their lives, explore parts of themselves, or use our time and space to build on the hard work they have already done.
(949) 617-1223 View (949) 617-1223
Photo of Patricia Rayas-Tabares - Hillside Counseling Center, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Hillside Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
If you are struggling in your marriage/relationships or life has become too stressful and you are ready to make a change to bring hope, peace, and balance into your life, I may be able to help. My goal is to provide you with an environment that fosters change. I strive to create a safe place where you can feel free to explore, take risks, and grow in the process. I want you to feel the sense of confidence and peace that we will work on topics that have caused you pain, sadness, frustration, or anxiety. Together, we will embark on a journey towards happiness and fulfillment.
If you are struggling in your marriage/relationships or life has become too stressful and you are ready to make a change to bring hope, peace, and balance into your life, I may be able to help. My goal is to provide you with an environment that fosters change. I strive to create a safe place where you can feel free to explore, take risks, and grow in the process. I want you to feel the sense of confidence and peace that we will work on topics that have caused you pain, sadness, frustration, or anxiety. Together, we will embark on a journey towards happiness and fulfillment.
(424) 329-2725 View (424) 329-2725
Photo of Adam Stoker, PhD, Psychologist
Adam Stoker
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275
In Martial Arts training, we are often taught to redirect energy against us to our benefit. In reality, though, this is true in our daily lives. We cannot stop bad things from happening to us, but when they do, we can respond in a way that fosters growth and progress. In our work together, we will work collaboratively to help you process trauma, cope with life stress, and become the happiest version of your authentic self.
In Martial Arts training, we are often taught to redirect energy against us to our benefit. In reality, though, this is true in our daily lives. We cannot stop bad things from happening to us, but when they do, we can respond in a way that fosters growth and progress. In our work together, we will work collaboratively to help you process trauma, cope with life stress, and become the happiest version of your authentic self.
(323) 919-8065 View (323) 919-8065
Photo of Maria Lopez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maria Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
As a therapist, I believe in creating a warm, positive emotion eliciting, and empathetic environment for my clients. My intention is to empower you in recognizing your intrinsic strengths, forging a new path toward a life of meaning and fulfillment. I use a strength-based approach that aims to find solutions, develop a greater sense of confidence in one's own abilities, identify and cope with specific challenges.
As a therapist, I believe in creating a warm, positive emotion eliciting, and empathetic environment for my clients. My intention is to empower you in recognizing your intrinsic strengths, forging a new path toward a life of meaning and fulfillment. I use a strength-based approach that aims to find solutions, develop a greater sense of confidence in one's own abilities, identify and cope with specific challenges.
(424) 290-1639 View (424) 290-1639
Photo of Loree A Johnson - Dr. Loree A. Johnson, LMFT, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Loree A. Johnson, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA 90275  (Online Only)
I believe that our challenges don't define us, but how we handle them does. If you're feeling overwhelmed by transitions such as fertility issues, grief, or trauma, I'm here to offer support. With a culturally responsive approach, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together to heal, find clarity, and move forward. Whether you're dealing with reproductive challenges, trauma, or family-building, I'm committed to helping you create a path forward that aligns with your values and empowers you to rebuild the life you envision.
I believe that our challenges don't define us, but how we handle them does. If you're feeling overwhelmed by transitions such as fertility issues, grief, or trauma, I'm here to offer support. With a culturally responsive approach, I provide a compassionate, non-judgmental space where we can work together to heal, find clarity, and move forward. Whether you're dealing with reproductive challenges, trauma, or family-building, I'm committed to helping you create a path forward that aligns with your values and empowers you to rebuild the life you envision.
(310) 807-2684 View (310) 807-2684
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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.