EMDR Therapists in San Marino, CA

Photo of Amber Bishop, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amber Bishop
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I am trained in EMDR.
Emotions start as experiences in the body. What makes us human are the emotions we experience on a regular basis. It can feel difficult, overwhelming, and unnatural to lean into these emotions and make sense of them all. A young child once shared, “when you dig really deep, you find stuff”. I am here to create a safe space tailored for individuals. My approach is empathetic, collaborative, supportive and non-judgmental. My goal is to offer a safe , therapeutic environment utilizing various components from treatment modalities to begin your journey of healing.
I am trained in EMDR.
Emotions start as experiences in the body. What makes us human are the emotions we experience on a regular basis. It can feel difficult, overwhelming, and unnatural to lean into these emotions and make sense of them all. A young child once shared, “when you dig really deep, you find stuff”. I am here to create a safe space tailored for individuals. My approach is empathetic, collaborative, supportive and non-judgmental. My goal is to offer a safe , therapeutic environment utilizing various components from treatment modalities to begin your journey of healing.
(323) 685-4629 View (323) 685-4629
Photo of Kaitlyn C Kuo, PsyD, Psychologist
Kaitlyn C Kuo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
I am a certified EMDR provider.
I believe everyone, if given a supportive and secure space, can discover their inner-self and learn to appreciate who they genuinely are, which leads to improved relationships. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Taiwan with over 10 years of practice experience. I have helped diverse populations with a wide range of issues in a variety of settings, including a community mental health center, a college counseling center, a domestic violence women's shelter, a re-entry program, an outpatient opiate treatment clinic, skilled nursing homes, a youth correctional counseling program, and an elementary school district.
I am a certified EMDR provider.
I believe everyone, if given a supportive and secure space, can discover their inner-self and learn to appreciate who they genuinely are, which leads to improved relationships. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Taiwan with over 10 years of practice experience. I have helped diverse populations with a wide range of issues in a variety of settings, including a community mental health center, a college counseling center, a domestic violence women's shelter, a re-entry program, an outpatient opiate treatment clinic, skilled nursing homes, a youth correctional counseling program, and an elementary school district.
(626) 486-9621 View (626) 486-9621
Photo of June Shigeno - Center for Marriage & Family Counseling, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Center for Marriage & Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
I work with couples, individuals and families. I was born and raised in Japan and speak Japanese as well as English. I've been trained in grief & loss issues, as well as trauma issues. I'm a certified EFT (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy:http://www.laceft.org/) therapist and also a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist. I am also trained in a very effective and deep processing model called, AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy).
I work with couples, individuals and families. I was born and raised in Japan and speak Japanese as well as English. I've been trained in grief & loss issues, as well as trauma issues. I'm a certified EFT (Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy:http://www.laceft.org/) therapist and also a certified EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapist. I am also trained in a very effective and deep processing model called, AEDP (Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy).
(626) 539-9784 View (626) 539-9784
Photo of Holly A. Freeling, MA, LMFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly A. Freeling
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
It’s natural to feel anxious or isolated during unsure times, and I am working hard to meet to meet the needs of my clients through remote telehealth sessions. I am accepting new clients, so please reach out. My video or call sessions are personal and easy to access. Therapy is both an art and a science, and I am well versed in both. I am also kind, empathetic and fun! I am skilled at several therapeutic modalities including: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (a unique method of healing trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, etc.), Art Therapy, Action-Oriented Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and more.
It’s natural to feel anxious or isolated during unsure times, and I am working hard to meet to meet the needs of my clients through remote telehealth sessions. I am accepting new clients, so please reach out. My video or call sessions are personal and easy to access. Therapy is both an art and a science, and I am well versed in both. I am also kind, empathetic and fun! I am skilled at several therapeutic modalities including: Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (a unique method of healing trauma, anxiety, depression, addictions, etc.), Art Therapy, Action-Oriented Therapy, Emotionally Focused Therapy and more.
(626) 376-3098 View (626) 376-3098
Photo of Karen Martin Fiedler, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen Martin Fiedler
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
Brainspotting and EMDR are two modalities to help the brain reprocess painful or traumatic experiences to bring healing and free you from being endlessly triggered and stuck.
Life is all about relationships! From the moment we are born to the last breath, we are embedded in relationships...it is the very essence of life. Yet, sometimes they are the most difficult to navigate through with confusing twists and turns that leave us feeling cut off and alone from the very ones we need and love. Often, we can see what it is we want, but have no idea of how to get there because we are stuck or blocked from moving forward. I can help you to remove these obstacles by utilizing Brainspotting (www.Brainspotting.com) or EMDR (www.EMDRIA.org).
Brainspotting and EMDR are two modalities to help the brain reprocess painful or traumatic experiences to bring healing and free you from being endlessly triggered and stuck.
Life is all about relationships! From the moment we are born to the last breath, we are embedded in relationships...it is the very essence of life. Yet, sometimes they are the most difficult to navigate through with confusing twists and turns that leave us feeling cut off and alone from the very ones we need and love. Often, we can see what it is we want, but have no idea of how to get there because we are stuck or blocked from moving forward. I can help you to remove these obstacles by utilizing Brainspotting (www.Brainspotting.com) or EMDR (www.EMDRIA.org).
(626) 722-5680 View (626) 722-5680
Photo of Dr. Monica S Karbassioun, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Monica S Karbassioun
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Through a person-centered approach, I utilize interventions tailored to your specific needs, including EMDR therapy, CBT, insight-oriented therapies, and more.
My aim is for you to feel safe in a nonjudgmental therapeutic environment so that you may find insight and personal growth and reach your goals while remaining true to your authentic self. My approach to health is holistic, working with you collaboratively so that you could better understand your inner workings and experiences and effectively set and reach your goals.
Through a person-centered approach, I utilize interventions tailored to your specific needs, including EMDR therapy, CBT, insight-oriented therapies, and more.
My aim is for you to feel safe in a nonjudgmental therapeutic environment so that you may find insight and personal growth and reach your goals while remaining true to your authentic self. My approach to health is holistic, working with you collaboratively so that you could better understand your inner workings and experiences and effectively set and reach your goals.
(323) 271-4017 View (323) 271-4017
Photo of Alison Lewis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alison Lewis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
EMDR can resolve trauma in ways that talk therapy alone can't.
Everyone gets stuck sometimes. It could be about relationships, work issues or family stress. It can be about things that happened in childhood, like rejection or physical or sexual abuse. Feeling bad about ourselves and the effects of trauma can derail us. Trauma is a word that means "unhealed wound." When we have experienced trauma we might develop low self esteem, anxiety or depression, or we might engage in unhealthy behaviors. What do you want to change? I've been a therapist for 25 years and I want to help you get to where you want to go.
EMDR can resolve trauma in ways that talk therapy alone can't.
Everyone gets stuck sometimes. It could be about relationships, work issues or family stress. It can be about things that happened in childhood, like rejection or physical or sexual abuse. Feeling bad about ourselves and the effects of trauma can derail us. Trauma is a word that means "unhealed wound." When we have experienced trauma we might develop low self esteem, anxiety or depression, or we might engage in unhealthy behaviors. What do you want to change? I've been a therapist for 25 years and I want to help you get to where you want to go.
(213) 465-3908 View (213) 465-3908
Photo of Cynthia J Winn, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia J Winn
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
My specialty is working with adolescents to adults. In my practice I integrate several therapeutic methods to achieve your goals... I am also a certified EMDR Therapist. EMDR is a highly effective treatment for people that need deep change, yet do not want to stay stuck with experiencing intense feelings of pain and shame. My client's have found that EMDR has also been a powerful aid in helping them breakthrough addictive feelings/behaviors ( depression, anxiety and behavioral addictions) that keep them in a negative and frustrated mental loop. We end the session with positive protocols that strengthen your objectives.
My specialty is working with adolescents to adults. In my practice I integrate several therapeutic methods to achieve your goals... I am also a certified EMDR Therapist. EMDR is a highly effective treatment for people that need deep change, yet do not want to stay stuck with experiencing intense feelings of pain and shame. My client's have found that EMDR has also been a powerful aid in helping them breakthrough addictive feelings/behaviors ( depression, anxiety and behavioral addictions) that keep them in a negative and frustrated mental loop. We end the session with positive protocols that strengthen your objectives.
(818) 294-7331 View (818) 294-7331
Photo of Jennifer Duke - Jennifer Duke Psychotherapist, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Duke Psychotherapist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I use EMDR and Havening.
You deserve to be happy, and my goal is to get you there. Together we can explore the issues at hand and develop a plan that allows you to move forward, confidently. Do you feel like life has become unmanageable? Are you unsure of the next step? Do you feel like you and your partner are more like roommates instead of romantic partners?
I use EMDR and Havening.
You deserve to be happy, and my goal is to get you there. Together we can explore the issues at hand and develop a plan that allows you to move forward, confidently. Do you feel like life has become unmanageable? Are you unsure of the next step? Do you feel like you and your partner are more like roommates instead of romantic partners?
(626) 317-8665 View (626) 317-8665
Photo of Danielle Palomares, MA, AMFT
Danielle Palomares
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I offer EMDR, emotional-focused, narrative therapy interventions, and a strong Internal Family Systems lens.
Are you feeling unseen or unheard in your relationships? Do you often find yourself trapped in an internal tug-of-war with conflicting internal voices or parts? Do you often feel like the black sheep of your family or "the problem"? These experiences can be deeply isolating and spark feelings of hopelessness. If you're currently grappling with the overwhelming impact of trauma, shame, conflict, stress, or pain without a supportive ally by your side, I would be honored to accompany you, your partner/s, family, and children on this transformative journey toward healing and growth.
I offer EMDR, emotional-focused, narrative therapy interventions, and a strong Internal Family Systems lens.
Are you feeling unseen or unheard in your relationships? Do you often find yourself trapped in an internal tug-of-war with conflicting internal voices or parts? Do you often feel like the black sheep of your family or "the problem"? These experiences can be deeply isolating and spark feelings of hopelessness. If you're currently grappling with the overwhelming impact of trauma, shame, conflict, stress, or pain without a supportive ally by your side, I would be honored to accompany you, your partner/s, family, and children on this transformative journey toward healing and growth.
(323) 524-2966 View (323) 524-2966
Photo of Reyna Mejia Kot, MA, AMFT
Reyna Mejia Kot
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I also provide EMDR therapy to help transform negative experiences.
In our life's journey, we encounter experiences that significantly shape us. Often, our ingrained behaviors are acquired unconsciously, and we may feel constrained by the narratives we've absorbed or the challenges we've faced. As a therapist specializing in trauma, I recognize the uniqueness of each person's path. My approach is eclectic, blending various therapeutic modalities, and is tailored to meet your specific needs, values, and aspirations. In a safe and nurturing environment, we foster authenticity, trust, and empathy. I deeply respect your vulnerability as we collaboratively explore the intricacies of your inner world.
I also provide EMDR therapy to help transform negative experiences.
In our life's journey, we encounter experiences that significantly shape us. Often, our ingrained behaviors are acquired unconsciously, and we may feel constrained by the narratives we've absorbed or the challenges we've faced. As a therapist specializing in trauma, I recognize the uniqueness of each person's path. My approach is eclectic, blending various therapeutic modalities, and is tailored to meet your specific needs, values, and aspirations. In a safe and nurturing environment, we foster authenticity, trust, and empathy. I deeply respect your vulnerability as we collaboratively explore the intricacies of your inner world.
(310) 990-9260 View (310) 990-9260
Photo of Natasha Hamlin, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Natasha Hamlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
I believe that through a compassionate and authentic relationship, therapy is a place where people can grow, foster their unique strengths, and reach their personal goals. I use a collaborative approach so that together, we can explore challenges, and strengthen your ability to cope and problem solve in order to help you reach your goals. I blend a combination of effective and proven evidence-based practices such as EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, DBT, and other modalities to help my clients work though trauma, anxiety, depression, anger issues, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and more.
I believe that through a compassionate and authentic relationship, therapy is a place where people can grow, foster their unique strengths, and reach their personal goals. I use a collaborative approach so that together, we can explore challenges, and strengthen your ability to cope and problem solve in order to help you reach your goals. I blend a combination of effective and proven evidence-based practices such as EMDR, Trauma Focused CBT, DBT, and other modalities to help my clients work though trauma, anxiety, depression, anger issues, self-esteem issues, relationship issues, and more.
(323) 433-6914 View (323) 433-6914
Photo of Kelly O'Phelan, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Kelly O'Phelan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
Are you tired of struggling? Are you seeking someone to help you navigate life's challenges and reauthor your own story? Hi, I'm Kelly, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with a passion for helping people access their potential. I specialize in working with children, teens, adults and LGBTQ individuals, helping them discover new perspectives and foster positive changes. I use an integrative approach to therapy, combining narrative therapy, EMDR, creative arts therapy, DBT, person centered, and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy to help you meet your individual goals in therapy.
Are you tired of struggling? Are you seeking someone to help you navigate life's challenges and reauthor your own story? Hi, I'm Kelly, an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist (AMFT) with a passion for helping people access their potential. I specialize in working with children, teens, adults and LGBTQ individuals, helping them discover new perspectives and foster positive changes. I use an integrative approach to therapy, combining narrative therapy, EMDR, creative arts therapy, DBT, person centered, and LGBTQ+ affirmative therapy to help you meet your individual goals in therapy.
(323) 431-9967 View (323) 431-9967
Photo of Pei Chai - Relationships For Better, MSMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Relationships For Better
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
I am also trained in EMDR therapy which focuses on trauma recovery.
Isn't it true that our relationships are what life is all about? When we feel isolated in our relationship with ourselves and loved ones, we are more likely to experiencing disconnection, dysfunction and emotional pain. Though we often grow through pain, feeling stuck can feel hopeless. My goal is to walk with you through the healing process. I'm here to support you in restoring life in your relationship with yourself and others. Using a holistic approach to therapy, we'll address underlying feelings and needs to restore a vital connection with yourself and others as we walk together through the healing process.
I am also trained in EMDR therapy which focuses on trauma recovery.
Isn't it true that our relationships are what life is all about? When we feel isolated in our relationship with ourselves and loved ones, we are more likely to experiencing disconnection, dysfunction and emotional pain. Though we often grow through pain, feeling stuck can feel hopeless. My goal is to walk with you through the healing process. I'm here to support you in restoring life in your relationship with yourself and others. Using a holistic approach to therapy, we'll address underlying feelings and needs to restore a vital connection with yourself and others as we walk together through the healing process.
(626) 869-2713 View (626) 869-2713
Photo of John Loppnow, MS MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
John Loppnow
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
EMDR is a fast and effective way to integrate painful memories or experiences.
Are you successful in many areas of your life, but feeling stuck with an important relationship? Or, possibly anxiety or anger? I can collaborate with you to find creative ways to identify areas of strength as well as unproductive ways of coping.
EMDR is a fast and effective way to integrate painful memories or experiences.
Are you successful in many areas of your life, but feeling stuck with an important relationship? Or, possibly anxiety or anger? I can collaborate with you to find creative ways to identify areas of strength as well as unproductive ways of coping.
(818) 717-7299 View (818) 717-7299
Photo of Nathan Ely, MDiv, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nathan Ely
Marriage & Family Therapist, MDiv, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
I am also trained in EMDR therapy which focuses on trauma recovery.
Our relationships are the greatest treasures we have in life. When we feel disconnected in our relationship with ourselves and others, we are more prone to experiencing isolation, dysfunction and pain. While our pain can be a great teacher, feeling stuck and alone on the journey of life can feel hopeless at times. My goal is to walk with you through the healing process and support you in restoring life in your relationship with yourself and others. With a holistic approach to therapy, addressing the needs of the body, mind and soul are vital for restoring connection as we walk together through the healing process.
I am also trained in EMDR therapy which focuses on trauma recovery.
Our relationships are the greatest treasures we have in life. When we feel disconnected in our relationship with ourselves and others, we are more prone to experiencing isolation, dysfunction and pain. While our pain can be a great teacher, feeling stuck and alone on the journey of life can feel hopeless at times. My goal is to walk with you through the healing process and support you in restoring life in your relationship with yourself and others. With a holistic approach to therapy, addressing the needs of the body, mind and soul are vital for restoring connection as we walk together through the healing process.
(626) 779-9717 View (626) 779-9717
Photo of Ruth Fong, MA, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ruth Fong
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108
Alongside talk therapy, I utilize EMDR, parts and somatic work to help the body release trauma and nervous system regulation.
I am passionate about helping women to truly thrive and find meaning in life. Being a woman is hard and often comes with many expectations. There’s pressure to have a successful career and healthy relationships, to be a good mom, to look put together, to be physically/emotionally healthy... Many of the women I work with find themselves feeling stressed and overwhelmed to the point that their physical and mental health may suffer. Maybe this sounds like you. You want to look inward, find healing and regain a sense of control. You want to develop tools to manage your mental load and move out of survival mode. You want to hope again.
Alongside talk therapy, I utilize EMDR, parts and somatic work to help the body release trauma and nervous system regulation.
I am passionate about helping women to truly thrive and find meaning in life. Being a woman is hard and often comes with many expectations. There’s pressure to have a successful career and healthy relationships, to be a good mom, to look put together, to be physically/emotionally healthy... Many of the women I work with find themselves feeling stressed and overwhelmed to the point that their physical and mental health may suffer. Maybe this sounds like you. You want to look inward, find healing and regain a sense of control. You want to develop tools to manage your mental load and move out of survival mode. You want to hope again.
(626) 784-4486 View (626) 784-4486
Photo of Lorna Khoo, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lorna Khoo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Marino, CA 91108  (Online Only)
As a licensed yoga instructor & EMDR practitioner, I go beyond traditional talk therapy to utilize mindfulness and somatic exercises that work to soothe the nervous system for a greater sense of wellbeing.
I work predominantly with first & second generation Asian-American millennials seeking help with perfectionism, people pleasing, career burnout, and challenging family dynamics. One of the most important things to know when you are struggling is that you are not alone. As a biracial (Chinese-Irish) therapist, I'm familiar with the nuances of overcoming current stressors while understanding the influence of cultural identity issues and intergenerational trauma.
As a licensed yoga instructor & EMDR practitioner, I go beyond traditional talk therapy to utilize mindfulness and somatic exercises that work to soothe the nervous system for a greater sense of wellbeing.
I work predominantly with first & second generation Asian-American millennials seeking help with perfectionism, people pleasing, career burnout, and challenging family dynamics. One of the most important things to know when you are struggling is that you are not alone. As a biracial (Chinese-Irish) therapist, I'm familiar with the nuances of overcoming current stressors while understanding the influence of cultural identity issues and intergenerational trauma.
(530) 500-0949 View (530) 500-0949
Photo of Aimee Ford, MA, AMFT, CCTP-I, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Aimee Ford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, CCTP-I
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
Trauma has an undeniable effect on people’s lives that can shape core beliefs about self, relationships, and the safety of the world. I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and IFS combined with other trauma-informed practices to provide a safe, judgment-free therapeutic environment. I use an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from multiple modalities to provide a holistic, individualized, and comprehensive treatment plan that identifies and addresses your therapeutic goals. I work with individuals, couples and adolescents as well as offer group therapy.
Trauma has an undeniable effect on people’s lives that can shape core beliefs about self, relationships, and the safety of the world. I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and IFS combined with other trauma-informed practices to provide a safe, judgment-free therapeutic environment. I use an integrative approach to therapy, drawing from multiple modalities to provide a holistic, individualized, and comprehensive treatment plan that identifies and addresses your therapeutic goals. I work with individuals, couples and adolescents as well as offer group therapy.
(323) 776-3556 View (323) 776-3556
Photo of Sepideh Garmroudi, MA, LMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sepideh Garmroudi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Marino, CA 91108
Sepideh Garmroudi is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California and a Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor at Pasadena Trauma Therapy, Inc. She specializes in the treatment of trauma, relationship issues, transitional issues, self-esteem issues, cultural issues, immigration issues, and stress-related issues. She use IFS (Internal Family System), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help her clients feel their emotions safely and help them make sense of their needs, desires, and emotional responses.
Sepideh Garmroudi is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California and a Registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor at Pasadena Trauma Therapy, Inc. She specializes in the treatment of trauma, relationship issues, transitional issues, self-esteem issues, cultural issues, immigration issues, and stress-related issues. She use IFS (Internal Family System), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Mindfulness, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help her clients feel their emotions safely and help them make sense of their needs, desires, and emotional responses.
(310) 562-8469 View (310) 562-8469
1
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.