EMDR Therapists in San Jose, CA

Photo of David A. Cordero, PsyD, Psychologist
David A. Cordero
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I also provide EMDR therapy if you are looking to heal from any traumatic or negative life experiences.
Welcome! You probably came across my profile because you are dealing with persistent negative thoughts, emotions, behaviors, addictions/habits, stressors, pain, or relational issues that don't seem to improve. You are tired and want change. Fortunately, we have many techniques that can help you feel better or improve your current situation so that you can get back to living and enjoying the life you want. If you are looking for more in depth work, I enjoy helping individuals heal from their attachment wounds and traumas, overcome their shame, develop a positive relationship with themselves, and become their best self.
I also provide EMDR therapy if you are looking to heal from any traumatic or negative life experiences.
Welcome! You probably came across my profile because you are dealing with persistent negative thoughts, emotions, behaviors, addictions/habits, stressors, pain, or relational issues that don't seem to improve. You are tired and want change. Fortunately, we have many techniques that can help you feel better or improve your current situation so that you can get back to living and enjoying the life you want. If you are looking for more in depth work, I enjoy helping individuals heal from their attachment wounds and traumas, overcome their shame, develop a positive relationship with themselves, and become their best self.
(408) 583-5190 View (408) 583-5190
Photo of Shannon Boe, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Shannon Boe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, which is a powerful tool for processing trauma and a unique offering for the teen and young adult population (as many EMDR providers only support adults).
I am passionate about helping adults with mental illness. I have a passion for helping these individuals learn how to navigate life’s challenges. The majority of my clients struggle with anxiety, navigating friendships/relationships, and handling complex family dynamics. My approach is very collaborative and based upon the needs of the client, day to day I like to utilize a cognitive behavioral lens to help clients understand and see how thinking patterns can impact them on the day to day. On average, clients work with me to learn more about themselves, work on their negative thoughts, and have better boundaries.
I am trained in EMDR, which is a powerful tool for processing trauma and a unique offering for the teen and young adult population (as many EMDR providers only support adults).
I am passionate about helping adults with mental illness. I have a passion for helping these individuals learn how to navigate life’s challenges. The majority of my clients struggle with anxiety, navigating friendships/relationships, and handling complex family dynamics. My approach is very collaborative and based upon the needs of the client, day to day I like to utilize a cognitive behavioral lens to help clients understand and see how thinking patterns can impact them on the day to day. On average, clients work with me to learn more about themselves, work on their negative thoughts, and have better boundaries.
(408) 637-4935 View (408) 637-4935
Photo of Kate Young, PhD, Psychologist
Kate Young
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128
There are no guarantees about therapy length and outcome, but the EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral approaches are very effective and efficient when compared with typical talk therapy.
My specialities are trauma, anxiety, work stress, panic, driving and flying fears, dysfunctional family of origin issues, and relationship conflicts. My main approaches are Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. I am practical and outcome oriented. EMDR and CBT work well in short term therapy approach. Frequently therapy lasts only 3-6 months depending on the issues to be addressed.
There are no guarantees about therapy length and outcome, but the EMDR and Cognitive Behavioral approaches are very effective and efficient when compared with typical talk therapy.
My specialities are trauma, anxiety, work stress, panic, driving and flying fears, dysfunctional family of origin issues, and relationship conflicts. My main approaches are Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. I am practical and outcome oriented. EMDR and CBT work well in short term therapy approach. Frequently therapy lasts only 3-6 months depending on the issues to be addressed.
(408) 883-4634 View (408) 883-4634
Photo of Erick Santos, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
I specialize in trauma whether it is complex trauma or intergenerational trauma using individualistic approaches to meet your needs through TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR therapy.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
I specialize in trauma whether it is complex trauma or intergenerational trauma using individualistic approaches to meet your needs through TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR therapy.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(408) 351-0417 View (408) 351-0417
Photo of Eileen Motozaki, MA, APCC
Eileen Motozaki
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124
Waitlist for new clients
Are you feeling stuck? Have you heard about Brainspotting, EMDR, or Flash Technique and want to try it? When life is overwhelming, we need someone to help us navigate our challenges. You are worthy of that support. You are the expert on you, and I consider it an honor to walk you through your pain and struggles. I welcome the opportunity to help you overcome negative beliefs that hold you back so you can find new pathways in relating to yourself and others. I welcome the opportunity to integrate your spirituality into the process of bringing lasting change.
Are you feeling stuck? Have you heard about Brainspotting, EMDR, or Flash Technique and want to try it? When life is overwhelming, we need someone to help us navigate our challenges. You are worthy of that support. You are the expert on you, and I consider it an honor to walk you through your pain and struggles. I welcome the opportunity to help you overcome negative beliefs that hold you back so you can find new pathways in relating to yourself and others. I welcome the opportunity to integrate your spirituality into the process of bringing lasting change.
(408) 713-2961 View (408) 713-2961
Photo of Brittany Aimee Kelly - Britt Kelly Counseling, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Britt Kelly Counseling, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95113  (Online Only)
I work with parents, adolescents, and adults who need support from a variety of issues including stressors related to trauma, parenting, general concerns about their children, coping skills for teens and adolescents, managing school stressors, recent diagnosis of ADHD, depression or anxiety, and more. Clients are looking for coping skills and communication strategies to create more harmony and strengthen relationships. They might also be interested in trying EMDR to process recent traumatic events or traumatic memories and experiences they went through in the past.
I work with parents, adolescents, and adults who need support from a variety of issues including stressors related to trauma, parenting, general concerns about their children, coping skills for teens and adolescents, managing school stressors, recent diagnosis of ADHD, depression or anxiety, and more. Clients are looking for coping skills and communication strategies to create more harmony and strengthen relationships. They might also be interested in trying EMDR to process recent traumatic events or traumatic memories and experiences they went through in the past.
(925) 519-3974 View (925) 519-3974
Photo of Chonnie Thiessen, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chonnie Thiessen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110
I use a variety of evidence-based techniques, such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, Solution Focus, and other talk therapies, to help my clients cope with their challenges ad achieve their goals.
I'm Chonnie Thiessen, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping others. I have a master's degree in marriage and family counseling and over 10 years of experience in providing effective and compassionate therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I work with individuals aged 12-99 who are dealing with challenges such as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I also work with couples and families.
I use a variety of evidence-based techniques, such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, Solution Focus, and other talk therapies, to help my clients cope with their challenges ad achieve their goals.
I'm Chonnie Thiessen, a licensed marriage and family therapist with a passion for helping others. I have a master's degree in marriage and family counseling and over 10 years of experience in providing effective and compassionate therapy to individuals, couples, and families. I work with individuals aged 12-99 who are dealing with challenges such as depression, anxiety, and relationship issues. I also work with couples and families.
(408) 465-4952 View (408) 465-4952
Photo of Nicole Bennett, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicole Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I use EMDR therapy to help my clients through impacts of trauma, difficult experiences, limiting beliefs, and feel a difference in their self worth.
If you are struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or impacts from the past, things can get better. In EMDR therapy, I guide my clients in working through inner challenges that feel stuck and getting to a place where change is truly felt. Together we can work toward finding more peace in your inner world to increase your capacity to relax, connect, and enjoy yourself and your life.
I use EMDR therapy to help my clients through impacts of trauma, difficult experiences, limiting beliefs, and feel a difference in their self worth.
If you are struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or impacts from the past, things can get better. In EMDR therapy, I guide my clients in working through inner challenges that feel stuck and getting to a place where change is truly felt. Together we can work toward finding more peace in your inner world to increase your capacity to relax, connect, and enjoy yourself and your life.
(408) 692-6792 View (408) 692-6792
Photo of Allison Mack, MS, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Allison Mack
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124
My therapeutic style is a person-centered approach and I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Emotion-Focused Therapy depending on the needs of the client.
Hello! it's nice to meet you. It probably was not easy getting to this point of seeking support during whatever stage of life you may be in right now. I am an associate therapist that works with children (8yrs+), adolescents, individuals, families, and couples. I have several years of experience working with mental health struggles (i.e. anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, etc.) in treatment settings as well as a variety of clinical concerns that many people face throughout life. I enjoy helping people navigate through problems by giving them a safe place to explore and process and empowering them to choose what is best for them.
My therapeutic style is a person-centered approach and I incorporate Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Emotion-Focused Therapy depending on the needs of the client.
Hello! it's nice to meet you. It probably was not easy getting to this point of seeking support during whatever stage of life you may be in right now. I am an associate therapist that works with children (8yrs+), adolescents, individuals, families, and couples. I have several years of experience working with mental health struggles (i.e. anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD, etc.) in treatment settings as well as a variety of clinical concerns that many people face throughout life. I enjoy helping people navigate through problems by giving them a safe place to explore and process and empowering them to choose what is best for them.
(408) 692-0790 View (408) 692-0790
Photo of Jennie Nystrom, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennie Nystrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
I am also trained in EMDR, which is a proven treatment for trauma and PTSD.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
I am also trained in EMDR, which is a proven treatment for trauma and PTSD.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
(408) 404-5596 View (408) 404-5596
Photo of Dr. Michelle Wambach, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Michelle Wambach
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
EMDR also treats trauma memories quickly and gently.
Welcome! Are you worrying about your important relationships, career, parenting, adult children, mood, or health? For over 20 years, I have helped people with anxiety, depression, and grief feel better and change for good. You want to feel happy, but a painful past keeps you in the same patterns despite your best efforts to change. Fear and worry make it hard to feel secure in your decisions. You want to be more successful in managing when to control and where to just let go, but feel stuck. You try so hard, but the choices you're making just aren't working out so well and you are tired of feeling sad. You are not alone, I can help!
EMDR also treats trauma memories quickly and gently.
Welcome! Are you worrying about your important relationships, career, parenting, adult children, mood, or health? For over 20 years, I have helped people with anxiety, depression, and grief feel better and change for good. You want to feel happy, but a painful past keeps you in the same patterns despite your best efforts to change. Fear and worry make it hard to feel secure in your decisions. You want to be more successful in managing when to control and where to just let go, but feel stuck. You try so hard, but the choices you're making just aren't working out so well and you are tired of feeling sad. You are not alone, I can help!
(408) 247-7909 View (408) 247-7909
Photo of Elizabeth Harris, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Elizabeth Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I incorporate elements of Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, ACT, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), DBT, Somatic, and Gesalt.
Would you like someone to listen to you? Maybe you are feeling stuck or are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, burnout, overwhelm, isolation, grief, trauma, attachment issues, excessive worrying, healing from past wounds, or your sense of identity and purpose. I would be honored to support you on your journey by providing you a safe and judgment-free space to explore your thoughts and feelings.
I incorporate elements of Psychodynamic, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, ACT, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), DBT, Somatic, and Gesalt.
Would you like someone to listen to you? Maybe you are feeling stuck or are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, burnout, overwhelm, isolation, grief, trauma, attachment issues, excessive worrying, healing from past wounds, or your sense of identity and purpose. I would be honored to support you on your journey by providing you a safe and judgment-free space to explore your thoughts and feelings.
(408) 840-0801 View (408) 840-0801
Photo of Patty Marsette, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patty Marsette
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95130  (Online Only)
My training as a licensed MFT has taught me to treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, parenting issues, relationship problems and trauma. I also have advanced training and experience working with PTSD, past trauma, panic and phobias. My goal and passion is to provide you with the tools to create and maintain life-affirming change in order to lead a more balanced and empowered life. I am EMDR trained, which is a powerful method for releasing past trauma and the depression and anxieties that go with it.
My training as a licensed MFT has taught me to treat a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, parenting issues, relationship problems and trauma. I also have advanced training and experience working with PTSD, past trauma, panic and phobias. My goal and passion is to provide you with the tools to create and maintain life-affirming change in order to lead a more balanced and empowered life. I am EMDR trained, which is a powerful method for releasing past trauma and the depression and anxieties that go with it.
(408) 882-1521 View (408) 882-1521
Photo of Elizabeth Mueller, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Elizabeth Mueller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I also provide EMDR.
Seeking therapy can be a challenging step, because opening up about intimate issues to a stranger is both terrifying, brave, and can leave you feeling vulnerable. That's why it's important to find somebody with whom you feel comfortable. It is my priority to make you feel at ease, because reaching your goal is more difficult when this is not at the foundation of the therapeutic experience. This approach has enabled me to work with a wide array of teens, adults, couples, and families.
I also provide EMDR.
Seeking therapy can be a challenging step, because opening up about intimate issues to a stranger is both terrifying, brave, and can leave you feeling vulnerable. That's why it's important to find somebody with whom you feel comfortable. It is my priority to make you feel at ease, because reaching your goal is more difficult when this is not at the foundation of the therapeutic experience. This approach has enabled me to work with a wide array of teens, adults, couples, and families.
(831) 246-8278 View (831) 246-8278
Photo of Sharlisa L Byrd, MA, LMFT, TITC-CT, SEPi, CPC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sharlisa L Byrd
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, TITC-CT, SEPi, CPC
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95136  (Online Only)
She tailors her treatment approach from an individual perspective integrating techniques, Somatic Experiencing (SE), Therapy, EMDR and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy.
It's finally your time to heal. Sharlisa has experience in both the mind and the body providing unique and effective approaches to counseling. Sharlisa is known for providing clients with nurturing tailored therapeutic services that can be integrated into their daily lives. She views herself as a manufacturer of hope and healing. She provides culturally competent, holistic, and wellness focused services that promote transformative healing through transformative change by optimizing a client centered approach that utilizes knowledge, early interventions, open communication, somatic experiencing & increased awareness. It's your time.
She tailors her treatment approach from an individual perspective integrating techniques, Somatic Experiencing (SE), Therapy, EMDR and Response Prevention (ERP) therapy.
It's finally your time to heal. Sharlisa has experience in both the mind and the body providing unique and effective approaches to counseling. Sharlisa is known for providing clients with nurturing tailored therapeutic services that can be integrated into their daily lives. She views herself as a manufacturer of hope and healing. She provides culturally competent, holistic, and wellness focused services that promote transformative healing through transformative change by optimizing a client centered approach that utilizes knowledge, early interventions, open communication, somatic experiencing & increased awareness. It's your time.
(408) 359-1814 View (408) 359-1814
Photo of Gayathri Ram Mohan, MA , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Gayathri Ram Mohan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA , LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
i have specialized training in Advanced Process Model, Mindfulness training and EMDR.
Welcome to Whole Hearted Therapy ! Some life experiences create open wounds that can have a paralyzing impact in the way we see the world, interact or make meaning of it. Does this lead you to shy away from intimate relationships and struggle with boundaries with friends and family ? I provide a safe and compassionate space where you can be fully seen and heard, explore with curiosity and support you in your journey to well being. I am EMDR trained clinician and bring a trauma informed approach to my practice.
i have specialized training in Advanced Process Model, Mindfulness training and EMDR.
Welcome to Whole Hearted Therapy ! Some life experiences create open wounds that can have a paralyzing impact in the way we see the world, interact or make meaning of it. Does this lead you to shy away from intimate relationships and struggle with boundaries with friends and family ? I provide a safe and compassionate space where you can be fully seen and heard, explore with curiosity and support you in your journey to well being. I am EMDR trained clinician and bring a trauma informed approach to my practice.
(408) 412-9891 View (408) 412-9891
Photo of Danielle Hanchett Friedman, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Danielle Hanchett Friedman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
I have completed EMDR basic training Levels 1 & 2.
We all have moments when we struggle with emotions and stressors that seem overwhelming at the time and take us away from enjoying all that life has to offer. Utilizing my more than 22 years of experience and training, I will work hand in hand with you to understand and address the problems that have prompted you to seek help. I create a safe and non-judgmental environment to support you or your family as together we discover a path for your healing, growth and change.
I have completed EMDR basic training Levels 1 & 2.
We all have moments when we struggle with emotions and stressors that seem overwhelming at the time and take us away from enjoying all that life has to offer. Utilizing my more than 22 years of experience and training, I will work hand in hand with you to understand and address the problems that have prompted you to seek help. I create a safe and non-judgmental environment to support you or your family as together we discover a path for your healing, growth and change.
(408) 335-0153 View (408) 335-0153
Photo of Dr. Michelle Wambach, PsyD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Michelle Wambach
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
EMDR also treats trauma memories quickly and gently.
Welcome! Are you worrying about your important relationships, career, parenting, adult children, or health? For over 20 years, I have helped people with anxiety, depression, and grief feel better and change for good. You want to feel happy, but a painful past keeps you in the same patterns despite your best efforts to change. Fear and worry make it hard to feel secure in your decisions. You want to be more successful in managing when to control and where to just let go, but feel stuck. You try so hard, but the choices you're making just aren't working out so well and your tired of feeling sad. You are not alone, I can help!
EMDR also treats trauma memories quickly and gently.
Welcome! Are you worrying about your important relationships, career, parenting, adult children, or health? For over 20 years, I have helped people with anxiety, depression, and grief feel better and change for good. You want to feel happy, but a painful past keeps you in the same patterns despite your best efforts to change. Fear and worry make it hard to feel secure in your decisions. You want to be more successful in managing when to control and where to just let go, but feel stuck. You try so hard, but the choices you're making just aren't working out so well and your tired of feeling sad. You are not alone, I can help!
(669) 291-2644 View (669) 291-2644
Photo of Alana Dunn-Veloz, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alana Dunn-Veloz
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
I treat a wide array of issues and trauma with some of the newest mind-body technologies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), which retrains your brain, and cognitive behavioral therapy where you will learn to replace unhealthy thoughts with constructive alternatives.
My clients describe me as warm, compassionate, and mind-body-focused. I am trained in several approaches that can create new insights about your feelings and behaviors. My approach is very pragmatic. I won’t just sit and listen. I understand the terrain of the mind and how to help it change. As your guide, we will create a plan unique to your needs.
I treat a wide array of issues and trauma with some of the newest mind-body technologies such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), which retrains your brain, and cognitive behavioral therapy where you will learn to replace unhealthy thoughts with constructive alternatives.
My clients describe me as warm, compassionate, and mind-body-focused. I am trained in several approaches that can create new insights about your feelings and behaviors. My approach is very pragmatic. I won’t just sit and listen. I understand the terrain of the mind and how to help it change. As your guide, we will create a plan unique to your needs.
(408) 443-2175 View (408) 443-2175
Photo of Dorise Hebenstreit, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dorise Hebenstreit
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
I specialize in EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is an evidence-based treatment approach shown to help overcome trauma-related difficulties.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
I specialize in EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is an evidence-based treatment approach shown to help overcome trauma-related difficulties.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
(408) 459-6634 View (408) 459-6634
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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.