EMDR Therapists in Rosemead, CA

Photo of Kandi Dudley - Dragonfly Counseling Services-Kandi Dudley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dragonfly Counseling Services-Kandi Dudley, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Rosemead, CA 91770
I am Kandi Dudley and have been a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist since 2009. I have been trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy and EMDR, and I use this for clients experiencing trauma. In addition I have experience working with first responders, military, and persons diagnosed with cancer. I provide a place where you feel safe, comfortable, and free of judgement. We work together in creating your therapy goals and identifying your strengths and specials gifts as a person. "When we are no longer able to change a situation - we are challenged to change ourselves". Viktor Emil Frankl
I am Kandi Dudley and have been a Licensed Marital and Family Therapist since 2009. I have been trained in Cognitive Processing Therapy and EMDR, and I use this for clients experiencing trauma. In addition I have experience working with first responders, military, and persons diagnosed with cancer. I provide a place where you feel safe, comfortable, and free of judgement. We work together in creating your therapy goals and identifying your strengths and specials gifts as a person. "When we are no longer able to change a situation - we are challenged to change ourselves". Viktor Emil Frankl
(626) 654-3673 View (626) 654-3673
Photo of Carolyn Lee Wong, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carolyn Lee Wong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rosemead, CA 91770  (Online Only)
I have a credential in school counseling and psychology, certification in Prepare-Enrich marital assessment and curriculum, and training in EMDR.
Being a first generation born Asian American can be an alienating experience. Having someone who can understand your experience can make all the difference. When someone really "gets" you, will work alongside you through the challenges you face, then you can have a different experience in a relationship that helps you to do what you didn't think you could before. I will listen to you, support you, help you understand yourself better, and help you learn new skills.
I have a credential in school counseling and psychology, certification in Prepare-Enrich marital assessment and curriculum, and training in EMDR.
Being a first generation born Asian American can be an alienating experience. Having someone who can understand your experience can make all the difference. When someone really "gets" you, will work alongside you through the challenges you face, then you can have a different experience in a relationship that helps you to do what you didn't think you could before. I will listen to you, support you, help you understand yourself better, and help you learn new skills.
(626) 478-2541 View (626) 478-2541
Photo of Janet Phillips, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Janet Phillips
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rosemead, CA 91770
I enjoy helping people move forward with their lives, learning how to adapt, how to make better choices for themselves, to realize that they are worthy of being liked and loved by others, and to like and love themselves. I utilize several psychotherapeutic modalities to help my Clients recognize their strengths, goals, and to move forward to success. Some of the psychotherapeutic modalities I have found that help Clients is Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Adlerian Therapy, Rogerian Therapy, and Cognitive Therapy. I have specialized training in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Relational Health and Trauma.
I enjoy helping people move forward with their lives, learning how to adapt, how to make better choices for themselves, to realize that they are worthy of being liked and loved by others, and to like and love themselves. I utilize several psychotherapeutic modalities to help my Clients recognize their strengths, goals, and to move forward to success. Some of the psychotherapeutic modalities I have found that help Clients is Solution Focused Therapy, Client Centered Therapy, Adlerian Therapy, Rogerian Therapy, and Cognitive Therapy. I have specialized training in Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, and Relational Health and Trauma.
(626) 869-2041 View (626) 869-2041
Photo of Hannah Thomson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hannah Thomson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rosemead, CA 91770
Hi. I'm Hannah Thomson. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing mental health treatment for over 15 years. When you first come see me, we will do an assessment together to help me understand who you are in a holistic way, which includes your intersecting identities, values, strengths, and what is important to you. I have experience in a wide spectrum of presenting concerns, ranging from short-term adjustment issues to longer-term mental illness diagnoses. I have also worked extensively with life transitions, trauma, identity issues, interpersonal relationship problems, religious trauma, and women's issues.
Hi. I'm Hannah Thomson. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and have been providing mental health treatment for over 15 years. When you first come see me, we will do an assessment together to help me understand who you are in a holistic way, which includes your intersecting identities, values, strengths, and what is important to you. I have experience in a wide spectrum of presenting concerns, ranging from short-term adjustment issues to longer-term mental illness diagnoses. I have also worked extensively with life transitions, trauma, identity issues, interpersonal relationship problems, religious trauma, and women's issues.
(805) 262-8344 View (805) 262-8344
Photo of Daniel James, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel James
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Rosemead, CA 91770
My name is Daniel James, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) for 25 years. My approach to psychotherapy is a collaborative and flexible partnership with each client. I believe that trust, respect, non-judgment, genuineness, and compassion form the foundation of a therapeutic relationship. I enjoy working primarily with adults, adolescents, and families. I work with individuals who experience a variety of addictive disorders, relational issues, mood disorders, and those seeking a better understanding of their life and how to make it better.
My name is Daniel James, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) as well as a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC) for 25 years. My approach to psychotherapy is a collaborative and flexible partnership with each client. I believe that trust, respect, non-judgment, genuineness, and compassion form the foundation of a therapeutic relationship. I enjoy working primarily with adults, adolescents, and families. I work with individuals who experience a variety of addictive disorders, relational issues, mood disorders, and those seeking a better understanding of their life and how to make it better.
(951) 468-9610 View (951) 468-9610
Photo of Ruby Phun, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruby Phun
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rosemead, CA 91770  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Starting therapy is difficult and scary; however, you do not have to do it yourself. I understand it is also vulnerable to share your stories with a stranger. Therapy is a space where you can feel safe being yourself. With sincerity, I strive to build that safe environment for you and work collaboratively to find yourself. I want to empower you to understand your thoughts and feelings. Working through your negative behavioral and thought patterns, we will identify how these currently affect your life. I will help you find solutions within yourself that you feel comfortable practicing and sustaining, using your natural strengths.
Starting therapy is difficult and scary; however, you do not have to do it yourself. I understand it is also vulnerable to share your stories with a stranger. Therapy is a space where you can feel safe being yourself. With sincerity, I strive to build that safe environment for you and work collaboratively to find yourself. I want to empower you to understand your thoughts and feelings. Working through your negative behavioral and thought patterns, we will identify how these currently affect your life. I will help you find solutions within yourself that you feel comfortable practicing and sustaining, using your natural strengths.
(626) 507-2980 View (626) 507-2980

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Carrie Sciametta, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Sciametta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Monte, CA 91733
I utilize EMDR and skills building, to join you in identifying the root of your struggles.
My name is Carrie Sciametta, LMFT, in my work I focus on healing from within, connecting you to your authentic self and learning to love yourself beyond measure. I have been practicing for 6 years and in the process have learned who I am and how I can support others through my work. If you struggle with self-love, feeling/believing you are enough, acceptance, or feeling lost, I understand and know what it takes to feel differently. If you struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing, codependence, isolating, avoiding, or any other behavior that prevents you from feeling like yourself, I would love to support you in healing.
I utilize EMDR and skills building, to join you in identifying the root of your struggles.
My name is Carrie Sciametta, LMFT, in my work I focus on healing from within, connecting you to your authentic self and learning to love yourself beyond measure. I have been practicing for 6 years and in the process have learned who I am and how I can support others through my work. If you struggle with self-love, feeling/believing you are enough, acceptance, or feeling lost, I understand and know what it takes to feel differently. If you struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing, codependence, isolating, avoiding, or any other behavior that prevents you from feeling like yourself, I would love to support you in healing.
(949) 694-7986 View (949) 694-7986
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 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
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 Sweeta Khosrawi, LPCC, Counselor
Sweeta Khosrawi
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
El Monte, CA 91733
Hi there, I am Sweeta! My name is Sweeta Khosrawi and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)based in Lathrop, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, teens, preteens, adults and older adults. I am certified in EMDR and also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for teens, preteens, adolescents and young adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures.
Hi there, I am Sweeta! My name is Sweeta Khosrawi and I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)based in Lathrop, California and working with clients statewide via telehealth. I work with adolescents, teens, preteens, adults and older adults. I am certified in EMDR and also use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to help my clients make progress and start feeling better. I have found that my style and approach is a good fit for teens, preteens, adolescents and young adults who may be dealing with the challenges of life transitions and social pressures.
(323) 433-6991 View (323) 433-6991
Photo of Sheryl Torres, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheryl Torres
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Gabriel, CA 91776
As an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, I focus on first helping a client clear large or small trauma that may affect their daily living and relationships.
Hi, my name is Sheryl Torres. I'm a LCSW and I have a calling as a therapist to help those in need. The client-therapist connection is a key component of a client's success in therapy. I focus on helping clients heal from traumas and reduce their any anxious and depressive symptoms. I specialize in working with Individuals (teens and adults). I enjoy working with these individuals and also encourage families to partake in sessions as needed to ensure continuity of care in the home.
As an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist, I focus on first helping a client clear large or small trauma that may affect their daily living and relationships.
Hi, my name is Sheryl Torres. I'm a LCSW and I have a calling as a therapist to help those in need. The client-therapist connection is a key component of a client's success in therapy. I focus on helping clients heal from traumas and reduce their any anxious and depressive symptoms. I specialize in working with Individuals (teens and adults). I enjoy working with these individuals and also encourage families to partake in sessions as needed to ensure continuity of care in the home.
(310) 627-2562 View (310) 627-2562
Photo of Sally Xie, APCC, MA, BA, Pre-Licensed Professional
Sally Xie
Pre-Licensed Professional, APCC, MA, BA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Gabriel, CA 91778
I'm an EMDR-trained therapist who provides trauma-informed care.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to improve their psychological functioning and achieve optimal mental health. I am passionate about working with children and adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, and losses as well as past trauma. Growing up as a cross-culture individual, I understand the challenges of identity issues, acculturation, and generational trauma as immigrant. Given my background, I also enjoy helping professionals to manage stress, anxiety, and increase productivity, creativity in a high-intensity working environment.
I'm an EMDR-trained therapist who provides trauma-informed care.
I work with individuals, couples, and families to improve their psychological functioning and achieve optimal mental health. I am passionate about working with children and adults who are dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, and losses as well as past trauma. Growing up as a cross-culture individual, I understand the challenges of identity issues, acculturation, and generational trauma as immigrant. Given my background, I also enjoy helping professionals to manage stress, anxiety, and increase productivity, creativity in a high-intensity working environment.
(949) 401-6950 View (949) 401-6950
Photo of Douglas Livingston Quinn, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Douglas Livingston Quinn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temple City, CA 91780
My name is Douglas Livingston-Quinn, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have masters degrees in divinity and counseling psychology, as well as a doctorate in clinical psychology. I have great insight and comfort working with adults and young adults, and an extensive background working with clients with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, autistic-spectrum disorders, depression, loss and grief, sexual abuse, and trauma/PTSD. I employ a mix of approaches including interpersonal, client-centered, behavioral, cognitive, solution-focused and motivational modalities, as well as elements of EMDR where it seems useful.
My name is Douglas Livingston-Quinn, a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in California. I have masters degrees in divinity and counseling psychology, as well as a doctorate in clinical psychology. I have great insight and comfort working with adults and young adults, and an extensive background working with clients with ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, autistic-spectrum disorders, depression, loss and grief, sexual abuse, and trauma/PTSD. I employ a mix of approaches including interpersonal, client-centered, behavioral, cognitive, solution-focused and motivational modalities, as well as elements of EMDR where it seems useful.
(909) 442-0515 View (909) 442-0515
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
El Monte, CA 91731
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 Gabriela Muniz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gabriela Muniz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Temple City, CA 91780
By integrating cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR, my goal is to support clients in their journey toward healing and personal development.
I am Gabriela Muniz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to providing a safe healing environment for first-generation students and young professionals. I prioritize liberation and collective healing for all individuals, and I am devoted to advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and social justice in our mental health services. I adopt a holistic approach, striving to meet clients at their current stage. Utilizing systemic theory, I analyze the different elements influencing my clients and craft tailored strategies to help them achieve their objectives.
By integrating cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR, my goal is to support clients in their journey toward healing and personal development.
I am Gabriela Muniz, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker dedicated to providing a safe healing environment for first-generation students and young professionals. I prioritize liberation and collective healing for all individuals, and I am devoted to advocating for inclusivity, diversity, and social justice in our mental health services. I adopt a holistic approach, striving to meet clients at their current stage. Utilizing systemic theory, I analyze the different elements influencing my clients and craft tailored strategies to help them achieve their objectives.
(323) 629-8248 View (323) 629-8248
Photo of Silva Sheklanian, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Silva Sheklanian
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
El Monte, CA 91733
My name is Silva Sheklanian. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing out of California. My work focuses primarily on both trauma and attachment. I am EMDR trained as well as attachment-based trained. I am trauma-informed, as such my approach is very much client-centered. I use both CBT and EMDR in my sessions to support my clients toward their goals. I am also trained in Theraplay to support clients towards attachment building with family members (specifically their children).
My name is Silva Sheklanian. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing out of California. My work focuses primarily on both trauma and attachment. I am EMDR trained as well as attachment-based trained. I am trauma-informed, as such my approach is very much client-centered. I use both CBT and EMDR in my sessions to support my clients toward their goals. I am also trained in Theraplay to support clients towards attachment building with family members (specifically their children).
(916) 619-6280 View (916) 619-6280
Photo of Jasmine Vasquez - Selah Counseling Center, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Coach, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Selah Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LMFT, Coach
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Gabriel, CA 91776
Our therapists work from evidence-based therapy models (CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, etc.
We are passionate about empowering individuals, couples, and families improve their quality of life in the face of adversity. In this healing journey, therapy is a collaborative process where you discover your inner strengths that aids in overcoming life's challenges and promote personal growth. It is about helping you make connections, resolve issues at its roots, and heal in a safe nonjudgmental environment. Our expertise includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, trauma, domestic violence, parenting, women's issues, men's issues, spirituality, and more.
Our therapists work from evidence-based therapy models (CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, etc.
We are passionate about empowering individuals, couples, and families improve their quality of life in the face of adversity. In this healing journey, therapy is a collaborative process where you discover your inner strengths that aids in overcoming life's challenges and promote personal growth. It is about helping you make connections, resolve issues at its roots, and heal in a safe nonjudgmental environment. Our expertise includes working with children, adolescents, and adults who struggle with depression, anxiety, behavioral problems, trauma, domestic violence, parenting, women's issues, men's issues, spirituality, and more.
(323) 617-4711 View (323) 617-4711
Photo of Charles Nesbitt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charles Nesbitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Temple City, CA 91780
I am a certified Acceleration Resolution Therapist and am trained in EMDR.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist experienced and passionate about helping people adjust to the inevitable changes we all face in life. I'm also trained to help those struggling with addiction/alcoholism. I have personal experience with cancer and have over 18 years in addiction recovery. I truly believe my own life experiences help me connect with those who are similar to me. I typically work with men and women struggling with cancer or addiction/alcohol issues, as well as those struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
I am a certified Acceleration Resolution Therapist and am trained in EMDR.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist experienced and passionate about helping people adjust to the inevitable changes we all face in life. I'm also trained to help those struggling with addiction/alcoholism. I have personal experience with cancer and have over 18 years in addiction recovery. I truly believe my own life experiences help me connect with those who are similar to me. I typically work with men and women struggling with cancer or addiction/alcohol issues, as well as those struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
(951) 419-4572 View (951) 419-4572
Photo of Michelle Chan, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Chan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Temple City, CA 91780  (Online Only)
Ever feel like no matter what you do, you're never quite "good enough"? You keep trying but things don't seem to be changing? Are you feeling tired, frustrated, and out of ideas? One of the most painful things in life is feeling as though the ones who are suppose to be the closest to you don't know, understand, love, or support you. Maybe you have already tried to change things on your own, or maybe you see no point in trying at all because you can already predict what's going to happen.
Ever feel like no matter what you do, you're never quite "good enough"? You keep trying but things don't seem to be changing? Are you feeling tired, frustrated, and out of ideas? One of the most painful things in life is feeling as though the ones who are suppose to be the closest to you don't know, understand, love, or support you. Maybe you have already tried to change things on your own, or maybe you see no point in trying at all because you can already predict what's going to happen.
(626) 513-0812 View (626) 513-0812

See more therapy options for Rosemead

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.