EMDR Therapists in Vacaville, CA

Photo of Kristina Cook - Second Wind Counseling, LPCC, LCSW, MS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Second Wind Counseling
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPCC, LCSW, MS
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95688
Current Evening Availability! In-Person Options in Vacaville or Telehealth! Sliding Scale options available. • Brainspotting • EMDR • Adults • Teens • A safe place to discover past roots to your struggles, heal emotional wounds, and move into your future with confidence. Our services focus on providing individual psychotherapy, Brainspotting, & EMDR to adults and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, relational issues, low self-esteem, codependency, prenatal/postpartum, sports related challenges, or have experienced trauma. Your mental wellbeing is our highest priority, and we're here to walk this path of healing with you.
Current Evening Availability! In-Person Options in Vacaville or Telehealth! Sliding Scale options available. • Brainspotting • EMDR • Adults • Teens • A safe place to discover past roots to your struggles, heal emotional wounds, and move into your future with confidence. Our services focus on providing individual psychotherapy, Brainspotting, & EMDR to adults and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, relational issues, low self-esteem, codependency, prenatal/postpartum, sports related challenges, or have experienced trauma. Your mental wellbeing is our highest priority, and we're here to walk this path of healing with you.
(707) 314-5860 View (707) 314-5860
Photo of Shannon Gravier, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shannon Gravier
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95688
My primary therapy utilizes EMDR, narrative, solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy strategies.
If you are struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, and tired of patterns keeping you from moving forward, then I'm here to walk with you. I can help you understand how to shift your perspective, learn more about your past, how to cope with stressors, how to communicate more effectively, and more. You have it in you, and I can help introduce new skills and awareness in your life.
My primary therapy utilizes EMDR, narrative, solution focused and cognitive behavioral therapy strategies.
If you are struggling with relationships, depression, anxiety, grief, and tired of patterns keeping you from moving forward, then I'm here to walk with you. I can help you understand how to shift your perspective, learn more about your past, how to cope with stressors, how to communicate more effectively, and more. You have it in you, and I can help introduce new skills and awareness in your life.
(707) 876-0471 View (707) 876-0471
Photo of Audrey N Reyes, MSW, LCSW, RYT200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audrey N Reyes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95688  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in EMDR and can help process trauma, anxiety, depression and so much more.
Hi, I am Audrey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a RYT200 yoga teacher. I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, couples and families; and I have been an Air Force wife for 23 years and I understand the dynamics of being a military family. In my work, I have seen many people struggle to manage their emotions, stressors and work through problems they face on a daily basis. I recognize and understand the connection of our health is through balancing our mind and body. Reaching out for help is hard to do and I understand therapy is not for everyone. So I am glad you are here, reaching out.
I am also trained in EMDR and can help process trauma, anxiety, depression and so much more.
Hi, I am Audrey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a RYT200 yoga teacher. I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, couples and families; and I have been an Air Force wife for 23 years and I understand the dynamics of being a military family. In my work, I have seen many people struggle to manage their emotions, stressors and work through problems they face on a daily basis. I recognize and understand the connection of our health is through balancing our mind and body. Reaching out for help is hard to do and I understand therapy is not for everyone. So I am glad you are here, reaching out.
(707) 356-9718 View (707) 356-9718
Photo of Venyei Angh, MA, MDiv, Marriage & Family Therapist
Venyei Angh
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MDiv
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95687
Therapy modalities I utilize include CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, EFT and now Ketamine-Assisted-Psychotherapy.
I'm glad you're here. I will give you a free 15-minute consultation to see if I am a good fit for you. I believe that every problem has a solution and everyone has a potential for growth and change and a therapy can unlock that potential for you. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 9 years of experience and now offering Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy. I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, trauma, marital issues, pre-marital counseling, family issues, life transitions, complex PTSD, school issues, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for treatment-resistant psychological disorders.
Therapy modalities I utilize include CBT, DBT, EMDR, ACT, EFT and now Ketamine-Assisted-Psychotherapy.
I'm glad you're here. I will give you a free 15-minute consultation to see if I am a good fit for you. I believe that every problem has a solution and everyone has a potential for growth and change and a therapy can unlock that potential for you. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 9 years of experience and now offering Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy. I specialize in treating mood disorders, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, trauma, marital issues, pre-marital counseling, family issues, life transitions, complex PTSD, school issues, and Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy for treatment-resistant psychological disorders.
(707) 415-4590 View (707) 415-4590
Photo of Kristina Cook, LPCC, NCC, CCMHC
Kristina Cook
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, NCC, CCMHC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95688
Brainspotting • EMDR • Sometimes we reach a season of life that we need a little help navigating, and the good news is that you do not have to do it alone. I wholeheartedly believe, "when needing compassion, we need someone who is deeply rooted, is able to bend and, most of all, embraces us for our strengths and struggles," Brene Brown. I work with a wide scope of clients who have experienced low self-esteem, phobias, trauma, abuse, sexual violence and assault, challenges with sports performance/blocks and injury, codependence, academic or performance anxiety and depression.
Brainspotting • EMDR • Sometimes we reach a season of life that we need a little help navigating, and the good news is that you do not have to do it alone. I wholeheartedly believe, "when needing compassion, we need someone who is deeply rooted, is able to bend and, most of all, embraces us for our strengths and struggles," Brene Brown. I work with a wide scope of clients who have experienced low self-esteem, phobias, trauma, abuse, sexual violence and assault, challenges with sports performance/blocks and injury, codependence, academic or performance anxiety and depression.
(707) 675-1571 View (707) 675-1571
Photo of Kevin Anderson, MA, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kevin Anderson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95687
EMDR therapy can help you heal from trauma or other difficult experiences by helping you reduce these problems that are associated with trauma, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
Attention Teens and Adults: Have you experienced a traumatic event that you're still struggling to cope with? Do you feel overwhelmed by stress, like it's taking over your life? Are you having trouble sleeping, eating or concentrating because of stress? Do you feel anxious all the time, even about things that shouldn't be a big deal? Do you have panic attacks or other physical symptoms of anxiety? Do you avoid social situations or activities because of anxiety? Have you been feeling down or hopeless for more than two weeks? Do you have trouble enjoying things you used to like?
EMDR therapy can help you heal from trauma or other difficult experiences by helping you reduce these problems that are associated with trauma, such as flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety.
Attention Teens and Adults: Have you experienced a traumatic event that you're still struggling to cope with? Do you feel overwhelmed by stress, like it's taking over your life? Are you having trouble sleeping, eating or concentrating because of stress? Do you feel anxious all the time, even about things that shouldn't be a big deal? Do you have panic attacks or other physical symptoms of anxiety? Do you avoid social situations or activities because of anxiety? Have you been feeling down or hopeless for more than two weeks? Do you have trouble enjoying things you used to like?
(707) 452-3986 View (707) 452-3986
Photo of Kelly Haven, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kelly Haven
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95688
Among my areas of expertise are Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting, relational, and marital issues.
We all struggle at times to see our inner strengths and capabilities due to the life experiences which have shaped us. I work in the belief that we each have everything we need to achieve a fulfilled and successful life already present within us; sometimes we just need a little help accessing it. Using a multi-modality approach I encourage my clients to work in the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring us to self awareness, acceptance, and lasting change.
Among my areas of expertise are Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), trauma, depression, anxiety, parenting, relational, and marital issues.
We all struggle at times to see our inner strengths and capabilities due to the life experiences which have shaped us. I work in the belief that we each have everything we need to achieve a fulfilled and successful life already present within us; sometimes we just need a little help accessing it. Using a multi-modality approach I encourage my clients to work in the small steps, not the giant leaps, that bring us to self awareness, acceptance, and lasting change.
(707) 593-5669 View (707) 593-5669
Photo of Jared Cozen, PsyD, LMFT, Psychologist
Jared Cozen
Psychologist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95688  (Online Only)
I take a client centered, goal focused approach utilizing Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and other evidence based strategies to facilitate positive change within the context of a supportive therapy relationship.
I have 20 years of experience working with a wide variety of people and a broad range of issues including: depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, relationship issues, phobias, panic, navigating early adulthood, and coping with life transitions.
I take a client centered, goal focused approach utilizing Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Internal Family Systems, EMDR, and other evidence based strategies to facilitate positive change within the context of a supportive therapy relationship.
I have 20 years of experience working with a wide variety of people and a broad range of issues including: depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, relationship issues, phobias, panic, navigating early adulthood, and coping with life transitions.
(510) 216-1571 View (510) 216-1571
Photo of Alessandra Aristizabal, ACSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Alessandra Aristizabal
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95687
Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and a range of other mental health disorders, the goal is to implement seamless care with individuals across the lifespan. This includes children, teenagers, and adults, as well as couples facing relational challenges. With the use of evidence-based therapeutic modalities and the integration of EMDR principles, clients can process and heal from a variety of traumatic and non-traumatic experiences.
Specializing in the treatment of trauma, anxiety, depression, and a range of other mental health disorders, the goal is to implement seamless care with individuals across the lifespan. This includes children, teenagers, and adults, as well as couples facing relational challenges. With the use of evidence-based therapeutic modalities and the integration of EMDR principles, clients can process and heal from a variety of traumatic and non-traumatic experiences.
(707) 868-8402 View (707) 868-8402
Photo of Tiffany Royal - Breakaway Child-Family Therapy, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Breakaway Child-Family Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95687
I am trained in evidence-based practice including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), and many more.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience working with trauma in youth and young adults as well as depression, anxiety, anger, school issues, and racial/ethnic issues. I also have experience working with adults and elderly around life transitions and grief/loss.
I am trained in evidence-based practice including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR), and many more.
I am a licensed clinical social worker with over 10 years of experience working with trauma in youth and young adults as well as depression, anxiety, anger, school issues, and racial/ethnic issues. I also have experience working with adults and elderly around life transitions and grief/loss.
(707) 657-5388 View (707) 657-5388
Photo of Ann Conrad, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ann Conrad
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95687
Hi there, I'm Ann! I love working with adults, families and some younger people. I have helped with many different types of issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, generational trauma, and physical and emotional trauma. I am trained in many techniques and modalities including Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I have a cultural experience with generational trauma in cross-cultural settings as well as Indigenous communities.
Hi there, I'm Ann! I love working with adults, families and some younger people. I have helped with many different types of issues such as depression, anxiety, relationship issues, parenting problems, generational trauma, and physical and emotional trauma. I am trained in many techniques and modalities including Attachment-Based Therapy, Client-Centered Therapy, CBT, DBT, EMDR, Mindfulness Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Trauma-Focused Therapy. I have a cultural experience with generational trauma in cross-cultural settings as well as Indigenous communities.
(805) 254-7278 View (805) 254-7278
Photo of Brittnee Berry, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittnee Berry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95688
I specialize in EMDR, talk and couples therapy.
Hi I’m Brittnee, I'm a trauma and EMDR therapist and I bring a direct yet compassionate approach to our sessions, creating a casual and conversational atmosphere where we work together to achieve your goals. My own transformative experience with therapy fuels my dedication to helping others. I provide a warm, open space where you can be yourself. Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges or seeking deeper connections, I’m here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you feel understood and empowered on your healing journey.
I specialize in EMDR, talk and couples therapy.
Hi I’m Brittnee, I'm a trauma and EMDR therapist and I bring a direct yet compassionate approach to our sessions, creating a casual and conversational atmosphere where we work together to achieve your goals. My own transformative experience with therapy fuels my dedication to helping others. I provide a warm, open space where you can be yourself. Whether you’re navigating life’s challenges or seeking deeper connections, I’m here to support you every step of the way, ensuring you feel understood and empowered on your healing journey.
(707) 516-6911 View (707) 516-6911
Photo of Louise Walker, PhD, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Louise Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95688
Waitlist for new clients
As my client, you will have my full commitment to listen carefully to your concerns and explore options that are attainable and will bring meaningful experiences to your life. In the immediacy of our hour together, there will be the opportunity to deepen the connection to yourself and to those who are important to you. Our therapeutic work increases self-awareness which in turn enhances your ability to live authentically and relationally. I am trained in EMDR when this modality is needed to diminish traumatic injury.
As my client, you will have my full commitment to listen carefully to your concerns and explore options that are attainable and will bring meaningful experiences to your life. In the immediacy of our hour together, there will be the opportunity to deepen the connection to yourself and to those who are important to you. Our therapeutic work increases self-awareness which in turn enhances your ability to live authentically and relationally. I am trained in EMDR when this modality is needed to diminish traumatic injury.
(530) 637-8964 View (530) 637-8964
Photo of Cathy G Neuhauser, PhD, Psychologist
Cathy G Neuhauser
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95688
In addition to a psychodynamic focus to help you on your journey of internal understanding and healing, I use mindfulness, hypnosis, and behavioral techniques to transform intense and painful emotions and use EMDR to assist healing from trauma.
My psychotherapy practice is built around helping people create significant changes in the way they are able to live their lives. Those who have been challenged by the experience of becoming parents of a difficult child, those who have had their lives disrupted by trauma, those struggling with food issues, and those who desire to deepen their understanding of themselves are among the people who will find a welcoming space in my office to slow down and reflect. I believe that living a mindful and aware life is a true blessing.
In addition to a psychodynamic focus to help you on your journey of internal understanding and healing, I use mindfulness, hypnosis, and behavioral techniques to transform intense and painful emotions and use EMDR to assist healing from trauma.
My psychotherapy practice is built around helping people create significant changes in the way they are able to live their lives. Those who have been challenged by the experience of becoming parents of a difficult child, those who have had their lives disrupted by trauma, those struggling with food issues, and those who desire to deepen their understanding of themselves are among the people who will find a welcoming space in my office to slow down and reflect. I believe that living a mindful and aware life is a true blessing.
(530) 723-1438 View (530) 723-1438
Photo of Suzanna Gee, JD, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Suzanna Gee
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95687  (Online Only)
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) often used to address trauma.
I welcome the opportunity to work with young adults to older adults to help to develop a preferred self. I know that developing an identity as a young adult can be challenging. Professionals may find it exhausting to have a work-life balance, or may be seeking meaning in their lives. I appreciate and value the intersections of our identities and how we navigate our lives. I work in a relational way holding clients in positive regard, attuning to you, and helping to identify internal and external resources to apply.
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) often used to address trauma.
I welcome the opportunity to work with young adults to older adults to help to develop a preferred self. I know that developing an identity as a young adult can be challenging. Professionals may find it exhausting to have a work-life balance, or may be seeking meaning in their lives. I appreciate and value the intersections of our identities and how we navigate our lives. I work in a relational way holding clients in positive regard, attuning to you, and helping to identify internal and external resources to apply.
(916) 589-6801 View (916) 589-6801
Photo of Ofelia Ramirez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ofelia Ramirez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95687
Waitlist for new clients
To better help you in your journey, I provide EMDR therapy, mindfulness and holistic approach when working with individuals, and couples in a safe, accepting, and positive environment.
¡Bienvenido a mi consultorio! My name is Ofelia Ramirez, I provide bilingual and culturally sensitive services in an empathetic and humanistic environment. My personal and professional mission in life as a Marriage and Family Therapist is to walk along side with you to provide you with a personal experience so you can discover your own potential, increase self-empowerment, find solutions to your problems, increase personal and meaningful relationships, transform your life, and help you overcome and manage life's barriers, break toxic patterns to help you make life manageable for you.
To better help you in your journey, I provide EMDR therapy, mindfulness and holistic approach when working with individuals, and couples in a safe, accepting, and positive environment.
¡Bienvenido a mi consultorio! My name is Ofelia Ramirez, I provide bilingual and culturally sensitive services in an empathetic and humanistic environment. My personal and professional mission in life as a Marriage and Family Therapist is to walk along side with you to provide you with a personal experience so you can discover your own potential, increase self-empowerment, find solutions to your problems, increase personal and meaningful relationships, transform your life, and help you overcome and manage life's barriers, break toxic patterns to help you make life manageable for you.
(707) 267-2403 View (707) 267-2403
Photo of Charles T Anderson - My Niche Therapy, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
My Niche Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95688  (Online Only)
I have extensive knowledge in Trauma focused treatment, Moral Recognation Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing.
My focus is to assist each client fulfill their therapeutic goals at a pace that they are comfortable with. Each person's circumstances are unique. I want your experience to be educational and helpful for you to come to an understanding of the events that are causing you distress. Some things take longer than others and the length of treatment may differ for one individual to the next. At our first meeting we will set a course that's flexible depending on your needs.
I have extensive knowledge in Trauma focused treatment, Moral Recognation Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Motivational Interviewing.
My focus is to assist each client fulfill their therapeutic goals at a pace that they are comfortable with. Each person's circumstances are unique. I want your experience to be educational and helpful for you to come to an understanding of the events that are causing you distress. Some things take longer than others and the length of treatment may differ for one individual to the next. At our first meeting we will set a course that's flexible depending on your needs.
(707) 475-3203 View (707) 475-3203
Photo of Jill Peeler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jill Peeler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95688
My treatment modalities include individual and group psychotherapy utilizing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am passionate about helping people make positive changes in their lives. I will listen to you in a supportive manner and seek insight when you are challenged. I offer counseling services for individuals, couples, families, and teens. At times it can be hard to focus on daily living when we are challenged by emotional issues such as depression, grief, family matters, or personal troubles. I will help you work through your challenges by incorporating mindfulness and coping strategies to help deal with triggers.
My treatment modalities include individual and group psychotherapy utilizing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am passionate about helping people make positive changes in their lives. I will listen to you in a supportive manner and seek insight when you are challenged. I offer counseling services for individuals, couples, families, and teens. At times it can be hard to focus on daily living when we are challenged by emotional issues such as depression, grief, family matters, or personal troubles. I will help you work through your challenges by incorporating mindfulness and coping strategies to help deal with triggers.
(209) 528-0758 View (209) 528-0758
Photo of Wendy Herrera, PsyD, Psychologist
Wendy Herrera
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95688  (Online Only)
I am a bilingual, bicultural Latinx woman who is skilled at supporting individuals through a variety of life challenges and transitions based in therapeutic models such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR.
Hi, I'm Dr. Wendy Herrera, PsyD. I'm a licensed Clinical Psychologist and an EMDR-certified therapist passionate about helping people like you feel more whole and confident by releasing dysfunctional coping mechanisms and embracing all aspects of the self.
I am a bilingual, bicultural Latinx woman who is skilled at supporting individuals through a variety of life challenges and transitions based in therapeutic models such as Internal Family Systems (IFS), Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and EMDR.
Hi, I'm Dr. Wendy Herrera, PsyD. I'm a licensed Clinical Psychologist and an EMDR-certified therapist passionate about helping people like you feel more whole and confident by releasing dysfunctional coping mechanisms and embracing all aspects of the self.
(415) 430-9735 View (415) 430-9735
Photo of Gina Garcia-May, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gina Garcia-May
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vacaville, CA 95687
Welcome, my name is Gina Garcia-May. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. By bridging science-based modalities and holistic approaches to your healing journey, you will learn to cultivate creative ways to improve and enhance your healing. As a Certified EMDR Clinician (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ) and energy spiritual worker, you will be able to improve trauma-based symptoms through bilateral movement and breathing techniques.
Welcome, my name is Gina Garcia-May. I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. By bridging science-based modalities and holistic approaches to your healing journey, you will learn to cultivate creative ways to improve and enhance your healing. As a Certified EMDR Clinician (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ) and energy spiritual worker, you will be able to improve trauma-based symptoms through bilateral movement and breathing techniques.
(805) 617-1476 View (805) 617-1476
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.