Photo of Rosie Pineda, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rosie Pineda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95407
I'm Rosie Pineda, Lic. LMFT. I am an EMDR-Certified Therapist and a Brainspotting Practitioner. I offer genuine caring that supports individuals and families to grow and reduce conflict. I also practice other therapies, like Somatic Therapy to help connect mind-body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is to work not only with individuals but with the system he or she lives in. I want to help them develop and use their insight to make daily improvements. I want to help people see the beauty in themselves, not through the external world but from their internal being.
I'm Rosie Pineda, Lic. LMFT. I am an EMDR-Certified Therapist and a Brainspotting Practitioner. I offer genuine caring that supports individuals and families to grow and reduce conflict. I also practice other therapies, like Somatic Therapy to help connect mind-body and spirit. My therapeutic approach is to work not only with individuals but with the system he or she lives in. I want to help them develop and use their insight to make daily improvements. I want to help people see the beauty in themselves, not through the external world but from their internal being.
(805) 301-9766 View (805) 301-9766
Photo of Barbara A. Turner, PhD, LMFT, STR-CT, RPT-S, Marriage & Family Therapist
Barbara A. Turner
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, STR-CT, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95401
I have worked with adults and children for over 30 years. My work bridges a broad spectrum of life issues with the belief that we each carry a unique inner authority that directs us to develop according to our own truth. My work has a Jungian orientation. In addition to verbal therapy with adults we may incorporate dream work, art, Sandplay or EMDR as a means of self-exploration. With children I use play therapy and Sandplay. Some of the issues I work with include anxiety, depression, grief, parenting, trauma, sexual abuse, child adjustment, post pandemic modifications, gender orientation, etc. www.BarbaraTurnerTherapy.com
I have worked with adults and children for over 30 years. My work bridges a broad spectrum of life issues with the belief that we each carry a unique inner authority that directs us to develop according to our own truth. My work has a Jungian orientation. In addition to verbal therapy with adults we may incorporate dream work, art, Sandplay or EMDR as a means of self-exploration. With children I use play therapy and Sandplay. Some of the issues I work with include anxiety, depression, grief, parenting, trauma, sexual abuse, child adjustment, post pandemic modifications, gender orientation, etc. www.BarbaraTurnerTherapy.com
(707) 414-8293 View (707) 414-8293
Photo of Laura Beann, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Beann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95401  (Online Only)
I approach psychotherapy from a whole-person perspective and I believe therapy, along with other practices, can help us awaken to a life of meaning. In therapy I will help you identify the source of your longing to be whole, and together, we will move closer to that source, so you become re-sourced. Together we will explore your innate natural cycles and help you align to your own rhythm, so that you might meet depletion with rest and energy with creativity.
I approach psychotherapy from a whole-person perspective and I believe therapy, along with other practices, can help us awaken to a life of meaning. In therapy I will help you identify the source of your longing to be whole, and together, we will move closer to that source, so you become re-sourced. Together we will explore your innate natural cycles and help you align to your own rhythm, so that you might meet depletion with rest and energy with creativity.
(650) 547-3560 View (650) 547-3560

Online Therapists

Photo of Ioanna Angelakis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ioanna Angelakis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
EMDR has proven results as an effective treatment, which I combine with CBT interventions, resulting in lasting, positive outcomes.
My name is pronounced E-O-Anna, and I have 15 years of experience in assisting unique individuals, like yourself, in overcoming obstacles and setbacks, to shine as you are meant to. I work from a Strength-Based Approach and believe in your potential, whether you are a child or an adult, with a collaborative, individualized and Brief strategy to help you to alleviate those symptoms with haste. I specialize in treating Anxiety and Trauma with EMDR, CBT and Somatic modalities to ensure progress, with a Brief/Solutions focused framework. Together we will see the progress you desire, and quickly.
EMDR has proven results as an effective treatment, which I combine with CBT interventions, resulting in lasting, positive outcomes.
My name is pronounced E-O-Anna, and I have 15 years of experience in assisting unique individuals, like yourself, in overcoming obstacles and setbacks, to shine as you are meant to. I work from a Strength-Based Approach and believe in your potential, whether you are a child or an adult, with a collaborative, individualized and Brief strategy to help you to alleviate those symptoms with haste. I specialize in treating Anxiety and Trauma with EMDR, CBT and Somatic modalities to ensure progress, with a Brief/Solutions focused framework. Together we will see the progress you desire, and quickly.
(510) 257-9678 View (510) 257-9678
Photo of Maggie Lavey, LCPC
Maggie Lavey
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94087
Hi, I am Maggie, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor/Psychotherapist and EMDR, trauma-informed therapist. I work from a humanistic, client-centered, holistic, and eclectic approach to healing, self-exploration, and growth. Specializing in a range of trauma-informed therapies working with anxiety, depression, relational trauma/narcissistic abuse, attachment, PTSD, complex trauma, and life transitions/stressors.
Hi, I am Maggie, a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor/Psychotherapist and EMDR, trauma-informed therapist. I work from a humanistic, client-centered, holistic, and eclectic approach to healing, self-exploration, and growth. Specializing in a range of trauma-informed therapies working with anxiety, depression, relational trauma/narcissistic abuse, attachment, PTSD, complex trauma, and life transitions/stressors.
(650) 472-5247 View (650) 472-5247
Photo of Karre Kern, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karre Kern
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95828  (Online Only)
A warm welcome to you, I'm Karre Kern! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Notary Public providing Telehealth in California, Maine, Virginia, and Florida. My practice supports ages 9 years and up with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, stress, and trauma. I primarily utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and have more than 20 years of experience helping facilitate positive change within a diverse clientele.
A warm welcome to you, I'm Karre Kern! I’m a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Notary Public providing Telehealth in California, Maine, Virginia, and Florida. My practice supports ages 9 years and up with a wide range of difficulties including anxiety, stress, and trauma. I primarily utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral (CBT), and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and have more than 20 years of experience helping facilitate positive change within a diverse clientele.
(818) 699-0190 View (818) 699-0190
Photo of Teresa Cole, LPCC, MA, Counselor
Teresa Cole
Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94605  (Online Only)
I specialize in trauma ( EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.
I specialize in trauma ( EMDR certified), grief and loss, career, disabilities, Autism Spectrum Disorder, depression, and anxiety. I provide counseling for individuals, couples, and families dealing with all types of issues and mental health disorders. My approach is process oriented and goal directed while providing psycho-education and resources. I will help you access your inner strength and build tools to cope, grow, and heal.
(510) 588-5277 View (510) 588-5277
Photo of Valentina Mornard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Valentina Mornard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126
I am a Certified in EMDR and am a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, and I use Health at Every Size principles to guide my work with food and body issues.
It takes courage to reach out for support. Often people reach out when their usual strategies to manage their life fail, and they feel stuck. Are you feeling like you can't think or talk your way out of your unhappiness? The role of the therapist is as a facilitator or guide to help you identify the patterns that are no longer working for you, and develop strategies to heal and change. I will work with you to develop a plan in therapy that meets your individual needs and goals. You can free up energy for the people and pursuits in life that matter. I want to help you get there.
I am a Certified in EMDR and am a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, and I use Health at Every Size principles to guide my work with food and body issues.
It takes courage to reach out for support. Often people reach out when their usual strategies to manage their life fail, and they feel stuck. Are you feeling like you can't think or talk your way out of your unhappiness? The role of the therapist is as a facilitator or guide to help you identify the patterns that are no longer working for you, and develop strategies to heal and change. I will work with you to develop a plan in therapy that meets your individual needs and goals. You can free up energy for the people and pursuits in life that matter. I want to help you get there.
(510) 345-0447 View (510) 345-0447
Photo of CK Olivieri Blackmore, MFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
CK Olivieri Blackmore
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114  (Online Only)
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
CK Olivieri Blackmore is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist who approaches life with warmth, compassion, and creativity. CK specializes in relationship dynamics, post-traumatic stress disorders, and developmental life transitions. She is particularly adept at issues pertaining to the queer community and their loved ones. CK utilizes eclectic modalities such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, EFT, Gottman, and IFS to navigate the nuanced needs of her diverse clientele and the associated sexual and gendered concerns that arise. Blending insight-oriented and behavioral change practices, CK works from a quirky and truly innovative lens.
(518) 269-5458 View (518) 269-5458
Photo of Dr. Ericka Hofmeyer, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Ericka Hofmeyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
Hofmeyer is an EMDR trained, Jungian informed, holistic psychotherapist with experience in dream analysis, mindfulness, anxiety and depression, addiction, sleep issues, neurodivergence, and trauma.
Dr. Ericka Hofmeyer is a psychotherapist licensed in CA. She received her MA in psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles and her PhD in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate Institute. She trained with psychoanalysts, provided psychological testing and assessments, developed behavioral health training modules, established programming for young adults with neurodivergence, and completed her dissertation with Women In Long Term Recovery From Alcoholism.
Hofmeyer is an EMDR trained, Jungian informed, holistic psychotherapist with experience in dream analysis, mindfulness, anxiety and depression, addiction, sleep issues, neurodivergence, and trauma.
Dr. Ericka Hofmeyer is a psychotherapist licensed in CA. She received her MA in psychology from Antioch University in Los Angeles and her PhD in Clinical Psychology from the Pacific Graduate Institute. She trained with psychoanalysts, provided psychological testing and assessments, developed behavioral health training modules, established programming for young adults with neurodivergence, and completed her dissertation with Women In Long Term Recovery From Alcoholism.
(415) 874-0969 View (415) 874-0969
Photo of Harmony Rousseau, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Harmony Rousseau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
To assist my clients in processing their traumas and accessing their strengths, I use a variety of modalities including EMDR, Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Pia Melody’s Post Induction Therapy (PIT) model.
I am a strength-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist—one who believes we each have the inner resources we need to be successful and happy in our lives. During our life journeys, many of us may need assistance with finding and/or highlighting our inner strengths so we can breakthrough our struggles, whether they be past traumas, family patterns/dynamics, relationship/attachment issues or a simple and current need for change. My hope is to help my clients build on their strengths, pinpoint their patterns, rewrite their stories, and find their way back to the positive aspects of life they deserve to experience.
To assist my clients in processing their traumas and accessing their strengths, I use a variety of modalities including EMDR, Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Pia Melody’s Post Induction Therapy (PIT) model.
I am a strength-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist—one who believes we each have the inner resources we need to be successful and happy in our lives. During our life journeys, many of us may need assistance with finding and/or highlighting our inner strengths so we can breakthrough our struggles, whether they be past traumas, family patterns/dynamics, relationship/attachment issues or a simple and current need for change. My hope is to help my clients build on their strengths, pinpoint their patterns, rewrite their stories, and find their way back to the positive aspects of life they deserve to experience.
(415) 687-4216 View (415) 687-4216
Photo of Jamie Powers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jamie Powers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110
I have been treating adults, individuals, and couples for over ten years. I assist clients in discovering of their strengths, building a support system, and developing healthy lifestyles to set the foundation for life success. I help with all different types of issues, from communication, anger, and intimacy, to trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use. My evidence-based approaches allow me to effectively address emotional and behavioral issues for clients from diverse backgrounds. I practice with all different types of therapy modalities, including EMDR, which is helpful for anxiety and trauma.
I have been treating adults, individuals, and couples for over ten years. I assist clients in discovering of their strengths, building a support system, and developing healthy lifestyles to set the foundation for life success. I help with all different types of issues, from communication, anger, and intimacy, to trauma, anxiety, depression, and substance use. My evidence-based approaches allow me to effectively address emotional and behavioral issues for clients from diverse backgrounds. I practice with all different types of therapy modalities, including EMDR, which is helpful for anxiety and trauma.
(408) 676-3461 View (408) 676-3461
Photo of Kate Leahy, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kate Leahy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fremont, CA 94539  (Online Only)
My work blends Psychodynamic, Attachment DBT, CBT and a variety of experiential modalities - Family Systems, EFT, EMDR and Parts Work, Energetic and Spiritual Healing, Eco-therapy and Equine Assisted Therapy.
Transformative potential lies at the heart of all wounding. Trauma, relationship challenges and life transitions compel us to re-examine our lives, values, patterns and sense of Self. Together we can find and unwind the stuck energies of depression, anxiety and other difficulties to make way for an enlivened, meaningful and authentic life.
My work blends Psychodynamic, Attachment DBT, CBT and a variety of experiential modalities - Family Systems, EFT, EMDR and Parts Work, Energetic and Spiritual Healing, Eco-therapy and Equine Assisted Therapy.
Transformative potential lies at the heart of all wounding. Trauma, relationship challenges and life transitions compel us to re-examine our lives, values, patterns and sense of Self. Together we can find and unwind the stuck energies of depression, anxiety and other difficulties to make way for an enlivened, meaningful and authentic life.
(510) 863-1821 View (510) 863-1821
Photo of Yin Chun Siu, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Yin Chun Siu
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Pleasant Hill, CA 94523  (Online Only)
I practice psychodynamic, CBT, Motivation interviewing, expressive art therapy and am EMDR trained.
Do you feel unheard, undervalued or stuck in life? When things are troubling you and you're feeling depressed and/or stressed, yet talking with friends or families only goes so far. In their desire to help, they shower you with advice, try to cheer you up and distract you. But when distraction is no longer an option, and you want or need to face what it is, that is troubling you. Then I am here for you. I am a bilingual (English/Cantonese) licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have over 20 years of clinical experience in mental health including my current position at Berkeley Mental Health as a Senior Behavioral Health Clinician.
I practice psychodynamic, CBT, Motivation interviewing, expressive art therapy and am EMDR trained.
Do you feel unheard, undervalued or stuck in life? When things are troubling you and you're feeling depressed and/or stressed, yet talking with friends or families only goes so far. In their desire to help, they shower you with advice, try to cheer you up and distract you. But when distraction is no longer an option, and you want or need to face what it is, that is troubling you. Then I am here for you. I am a bilingual (English/Cantonese) licensed Marriage Family Therapist. I have over 20 years of clinical experience in mental health including my current position at Berkeley Mental Health as a Senior Behavioral Health Clinician.
(925) 722-6734 View (925) 722-6734
Photo of Shannon Squillante, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon Squillante
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Elk Grove, CA 95757
I also am certified in CBT and am an Emdria approved EMDR therapist.
Hello, my name is Shannon Squillante, LMFT 98938. I have a humanistic approach to therapy, working to understand the individual and how they have learned to interact with others in ways that no longer serve them- and work to undo those ways to provide the individual with more freedom and choice in their actions, which I believe can lead to healing. Understanding where we come from and the impact that it has had on us is vital to growing those parts that were stunted and creating reparative moments through relationships to work towards acceptance.
I also am certified in CBT and am an Emdria approved EMDR therapist.
Hello, my name is Shannon Squillante, LMFT 98938. I have a humanistic approach to therapy, working to understand the individual and how they have learned to interact with others in ways that no longer serve them- and work to undo those ways to provide the individual with more freedom and choice in their actions, which I believe can lead to healing. Understanding where we come from and the impact that it has had on us is vital to growing those parts that were stunted and creating reparative moments through relationships to work towards acceptance.
(657) 300-0151 View (657) 300-0151
Photo of Tengfei Li, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tengfei Li
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Gatos, CA 95030  (Online Only)
I integrate a human-centered approach, CBT/DBT, psychoanalytic approach, dream work, and EMDR into my practice.
With my experience throughout my therapist career life, I find people are able to get in touch with their own voice, motivation, and wisdom when they feel heard, seen, and understood. I provide therapy with love and care to clients and help them see and change their pattern in the here-and-now moment in the therapeutic relationship. Besides providing psychoeducation and coping skills to help clients manage their symptoms, I devote my work to helping clients explore their ways of transformation and getting closer to their True Self.
I integrate a human-centered approach, CBT/DBT, psychoanalytic approach, dream work, and EMDR into my practice.
With my experience throughout my therapist career life, I find people are able to get in touch with their own voice, motivation, and wisdom when they feel heard, seen, and understood. I provide therapy with love and care to clients and help them see and change their pattern in the here-and-now moment in the therapeutic relationship. Besides providing psychoeducation and coping skills to help clients manage their symptoms, I devote my work to helping clients explore their ways of transformation and getting closer to their True Self.
(408) 668-0230 View (408) 668-0230
Photo of Shohreh White, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shohreh White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95678  (Online Only)
I believe in a holistic approach to therapy that includes the soul, body, and mind while also incorporates techniques such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing; for trauma) mindfulness, motivational therapy, psychoeducation and client-centered therapy.
Hello! My name is Shohreh but I go by Sho for short. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor who has a passion to help others achieve their best life. Sometimes life can leave one feeling lost or powerless, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. I would be honored to help you navigate and walk with you in your journey to finding and reclaiming your true self.
I believe in a holistic approach to therapy that includes the soul, body, and mind while also incorporates techniques such as Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing; for trauma) mindfulness, motivational therapy, psychoeducation and client-centered therapy.
Hello! My name is Shohreh but I go by Sho for short. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Associate Professional Clinical Counselor who has a passion to help others achieve their best life. Sometimes life can leave one feeling lost or powerless, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. I would be honored to help you navigate and walk with you in your journey to finding and reclaiming your true self.
(916) 619-5341 View (916) 619-5341
Photo of Heather Thomas, IMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Thomas
Marriage & Family Therapist, IMFT
Verified Verified
Rancho Cordova, CA 95670
I am trained in ACT, CBT, CPT, Trauma Informed, DBT, Schema Therapy, and EMDR.
Hello and welcome; my name is Heather Thomas, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I've been working with individuals, families, and couples for over 10 years, helping them find the solutions within themselves, learn to emotionally regulate despite what is going on around them, learn to manage distress and to problem-solve. My goal is to help you create a life that is worth living and one where you are able to be the best version of yourself.
I am trained in ACT, CBT, CPT, Trauma Informed, DBT, Schema Therapy, and EMDR.
Hello and welcome; my name is Heather Thomas, and I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I've been working with individuals, families, and couples for over 10 years, helping them find the solutions within themselves, learn to emotionally regulate despite what is going on around them, learn to manage distress and to problem-solve. My goal is to help you create a life that is worth living and one where you are able to be the best version of yourself.
(916) 659-7587 View (916) 659-7587
Photo of Nancy Nguyen, PPSC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PPSC, LCSW
Verified Verified
Campbell, CA 95008
I am a trauma-informed clinician with IFS and EMDR certification.
You may be feeling stuck, hopeless, defeated. You may be stuck in a cycle of depression and/or anxiety. You may be questioning your purpose and the path you've been on. You may be struggling with a life transition or a new role. I believe each individual and circumstance is unique, and as such, take great care in my assessments to get to know you. As a trauma therapist, I am sensitive to what you've been through and where you want to go. Along the journey we will discover marked paths and reveal new insights.
I am a trauma-informed clinician with IFS and EMDR certification.
You may be feeling stuck, hopeless, defeated. You may be stuck in a cycle of depression and/or anxiety. You may be questioning your purpose and the path you've been on. You may be struggling with a life transition or a new role. I believe each individual and circumstance is unique, and as such, take great care in my assessments to get to know you. As a trauma therapist, I am sensitive to what you've been through and where you want to go. Along the journey we will discover marked paths and reveal new insights.
(831) 322-0412 View (831) 322-0412
Photo of Jaimi Martin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jaimi Martin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Martinez, CA 94553
Hello, I'm Jaimi Martin LCWS, PH-C. I specialize in childhood trauma using EMDR, and postpartum depression and anxiety, using a feminist viewpoint. I work with individuals ages 12 and up, with a focus on life transitions. I support people in becoming their true selves. I've always worked in collaboration with others and found working as a therapist allowed that work to be more meaningful and deeper.
Hello, I'm Jaimi Martin LCWS, PH-C. I specialize in childhood trauma using EMDR, and postpartum depression and anxiety, using a feminist viewpoint. I work with individuals ages 12 and up, with a focus on life transitions. I support people in becoming their true selves. I've always worked in collaboration with others and found working as a therapist allowed that work to be more meaningful and deeper.
(559) 380-4131 View (559) 380-4131
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.