EMDR Therapists in Yorba Linda, CA

Photo of Tiffany Marie Atalla, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tiffany Marie Atalla
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92887
Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR and depression assessments/risk assessments.
Do you desire to overcome obstacles and reach your goals this season? Let's remove the roadblocks to your happiness. I welcome working together to find the best solutions for unresolved issues, relationship dysfunction and stressors so that you can lead a happier, healthier and more productive life! Often what is needed is an unbiased ear, who will listen without judgment to thoughts, feelings, or fears and work with you to gain healthy insights and create the positive changes you desire. I am committed to providing quality counseling to individuals, couples and families. Today is the day to get unstuck and redefine your life!
Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR and depression assessments/risk assessments.
Do you desire to overcome obstacles and reach your goals this season? Let's remove the roadblocks to your happiness. I welcome working together to find the best solutions for unresolved issues, relationship dysfunction and stressors so that you can lead a happier, healthier and more productive life! Often what is needed is an unbiased ear, who will listen without judgment to thoughts, feelings, or fears and work with you to gain healthy insights and create the positive changes you desire. I am committed to providing quality counseling to individuals, couples and families. Today is the day to get unstuck and redefine your life!
(949) 482-4319 View (949) 482-4319
Photo of Carly Harris, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carly Harris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92885  (Online Only)
I’m trained in both Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to help clients heal from trauma.
Relationships - sometimes it feels like we can’t live with them, but we can’t live without them. They are central to our home, work, and social lives, but can cause feelings of stress, anxiety, and even depression. If you feel stuck in the same old song and dance - there is hope! Even though it takes “two to tango”, one person can be the catalyst for change. If you are a parent struggling to get through the day, a spouse hiding how you really feel from your partner, or an individual desiring a relationship, but feeling defeated that no matter how many dating apps you try, “the one” doesn’t seem to be out there... you are not alone.
I’m trained in both Attachment Based Family Therapy (ABFT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to help clients heal from trauma.
Relationships - sometimes it feels like we can’t live with them, but we can’t live without them. They are central to our home, work, and social lives, but can cause feelings of stress, anxiety, and even depression. If you feel stuck in the same old song and dance - there is hope! Even though it takes “two to tango”, one person can be the catalyst for change. If you are a parent struggling to get through the day, a spouse hiding how you really feel from your partner, or an individual desiring a relationship, but feeling defeated that no matter how many dating apps you try, “the one” doesn’t seem to be out there... you are not alone.
(714) 364-0245 View (714) 364-0245
Photo of Brooke Angaga, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brooke Angaga
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92886  (Online Only)
I have been trained in the evidence based practices of EMDR and TF-CBT and can provide you with trauma-informed counseling.
Are you hurting and heartbroken and unsure where to turn? You do not have to live like this. In my 19 years in the mental health field I have worked with foster and adoptive children and families, multi-cultural populations, and with individual adult clients. My heart is to come alongside you to work through whatever abuse, betrayal, broken attachment, or trauma you have walked through, and support you to experience healing and joy in your life.
I have been trained in the evidence based practices of EMDR and TF-CBT and can provide you with trauma-informed counseling.
Are you hurting and heartbroken and unsure where to turn? You do not have to live like this. In my 19 years in the mental health field I have worked with foster and adoptive children and families, multi-cultural populations, and with individual adult clients. My heart is to come alongside you to work through whatever abuse, betrayal, broken attachment, or trauma you have walked through, and support you to experience healing and joy in your life.
(657) 837-1696 View (657) 837-1696
Photo of Lesli Maul, LCSW, CEDS-C, CDWF-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lesli Maul
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CEDS-C, CDWF-C
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
I am certified in eating disorders, EMDR, hypnotherapy, and The Daring Way™.
Are you tired of living "small" within your own life? Do you crave authenticity and deep connection with others but are unsure of how to proceed? Do you find your days taken up with thoughts of food, weight, fear or loss? I can assist you in working through these concerns, letting go of self limiting beliefs and unhelpful behaviors, while finding the joy, strength and connection you are seeking. My belief is in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I focus on building trust and safety within that relationship, and take a strengths based, recovery focused approach to healing.
I am certified in eating disorders, EMDR, hypnotherapy, and The Daring Way™.
Are you tired of living "small" within your own life? Do you crave authenticity and deep connection with others but are unsure of how to proceed? Do you find your days taken up with thoughts of food, weight, fear or loss? I can assist you in working through these concerns, letting go of self limiting beliefs and unhelpful behaviors, while finding the joy, strength and connection you are seeking. My belief is in the power of the therapeutic relationship. I focus on building trust and safety within that relationship, and take a strengths based, recovery focused approach to healing.
(714) 278-4877 View (714) 278-4877
Photo of Susan Underwood Emdr, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Underwood Emdr
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
I am also trained in EMDR.
I am so glad you made the choice to seek help. It is my goal to help you achieve healing and freedom in your life. I believe every person has the ability to achieve their goals, and it is my job to help you achieve yours. I work with adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Our world is full of distractions that pull us in every direction. I will help you navigate the busyness of your life and create balance amidst the chaos. I will walk alongside you and help you unburden your past and move into a bright future.
I am also trained in EMDR.
I am so glad you made the choice to seek help. It is my goal to help you achieve healing and freedom in your life. I believe every person has the ability to achieve their goals, and it is my job to help you achieve yours. I work with adults, children, adolescents, couples and families. Our world is full of distractions that pull us in every direction. I will help you navigate the busyness of your life and create balance amidst the chaos. I will walk alongside you and help you unburden your past and move into a bright future.
(714) 831-5423 View (714) 831-5423
Photo of Belinda Gutierrez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Belinda Gutierrez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886  (Online Only)
EMDR helps clients to reprocess trauma and the accompanying symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
Hi, my name is Belinda Gutierrez, and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I'm based in Riverside, CA, and work statewide via Telehealth. I have a diverse background working with adults, couples, and teens. My desire is to help others overcome the obstacles in their lives that keep them from reaching their full potential. My approach to therapy depends on my client's needs and includes EMDR therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, and Faith-based Therapy, for those who desire.
EMDR helps clients to reprocess trauma and the accompanying symptoms such as anxiety and depression.
Hi, my name is Belinda Gutierrez, and I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I'm based in Riverside, CA, and work statewide via Telehealth. I have a diverse background working with adults, couples, and teens. My desire is to help others overcome the obstacles in their lives that keep them from reaching their full potential. My approach to therapy depends on my client's needs and includes EMDR therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Client-Centered Therapy, and Faith-based Therapy, for those who desire.
(657) 837-0987 View (657) 837-0987
Photo of Eun Jin Ryu-Lee - Journey Onward Child and Family Therapy, LMFT, RPT-S™, Marriage & Family Therapist
Journey Onward Child and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT-S™
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents by utilizing Play Therapy and EMDR Therapy.
Is your child feeling fearful and anxious? Does he/she have a hard time separating from you? Has your child gone through a traumatic event? Is your teenager appearing to withdraw, and is easily irritable? Is your family currently going through a major life-changing transition? Do you, as a parent/caregiver, feel overwhelmed and helpless? And no matter what you do, your child continues to struggle? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you have made the right choice to be here. You've probably been debating about seeking help for a while. I am glad you found me and have taken the courageous step to seek support.
I have extensive experience working with children and adolescents by utilizing Play Therapy and EMDR Therapy.
Is your child feeling fearful and anxious? Does he/she have a hard time separating from you? Has your child gone through a traumatic event? Is your teenager appearing to withdraw, and is easily irritable? Is your family currently going through a major life-changing transition? Do you, as a parent/caregiver, feel overwhelmed and helpless? And no matter what you do, your child continues to struggle? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, you have made the right choice to be here. You've probably been debating about seeking help for a while. I am glad you found me and have taken the courageous step to seek support.
(714) 361-0967 View (714) 361-0967
Photo of Vanessa Jane Cardin, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Vanessa Jane Cardin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
I am also EMDR trained by the EMDR International Association which is the leading approach for PTSD.
Do you find yourself feeling fearful and not knowing why? Do you question your behavior and feel like your reactions are abnormal? Does it feel like no one understands and that life is too overwhelming sometimes? You're not alone, and it's time to talk about it.
I am also EMDR trained by the EMDR International Association which is the leading approach for PTSD.
Do you find yourself feeling fearful and not knowing why? Do you question your behavior and feel like your reactions are abnormal? Does it feel like no one understands and that life is too overwhelming sometimes? You're not alone, and it's time to talk about it.
(949) 763-4546 View (949) 763-4546
Photo of Carl Andrew (Drew) Miller, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carl Andrew (Drew) Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified Brainspotting (BSP) Therapist and a fully trained Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapist, which I apply as integrated treatment modalities vs.
Do you find yourself longing for something more in life? Are you surviving, just getting by, but feeling disconnected from your heart? I am here to support you! I offer a warm, empathic presence, as well as a safe space to process your emotions and work toward greater emotional health and wholeness. My goal for every client is to foster a deeper sense of peace, hope, and personal freedom. I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families in a clinical setting to address a variety of interpersonal and emotional concerns.
I am a Certified Brainspotting (BSP) Therapist and a fully trained Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapist, which I apply as integrated treatment modalities vs.
Do you find yourself longing for something more in life? Are you surviving, just getting by, but feeling disconnected from your heart? I am here to support you! I offer a warm, empathic presence, as well as a safe space to process your emotions and work toward greater emotional health and wholeness. My goal for every client is to foster a deeper sense of peace, hope, and personal freedom. I have over 15 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families in a clinical setting to address a variety of interpersonal and emotional concerns.
(714) 587-3855 View (714) 587-3855
Photo of Dorothy Yeh, LMFT, EMDR, Gottman, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dorothy Yeh
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, Gottman
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
In my 18 years of practice, I've had the honor for helping many couples, as well as individuals with depression, anxiety and trauma. If you repeatedly fight over the similar things and feel disconnected in your relationship, I can help you! I am trained in Gottman's Method and love to work with couples to decrease disconnection and deepen intimacy. EMDR training gives me effective tools for treating depression, anxiety and trauma. I am also passionate to help second generation Asian Americans, bridging the cultural/generational gap between first and second generation. 我會說中文.
In my 18 years of practice, I've had the honor for helping many couples, as well as individuals with depression, anxiety and trauma. If you repeatedly fight over the similar things and feel disconnected in your relationship, I can help you! I am trained in Gottman's Method and love to work with couples to decrease disconnection and deepen intimacy. EMDR training gives me effective tools for treating depression, anxiety and trauma. I am also passionate to help second generation Asian Americans, bridging the cultural/generational gap between first and second generation. 我會說中文.
(657) 246-0003 View (657) 246-0003
Photo of Linda Quaranta, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Linda Quaranta
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92887  (Online Only)
I am Certified in EMDR, an evidenced based therapy that treats trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and pain to alliviate psychological distress.
Where the healing begins...takes personal courage. Often times, it is not easy to ask for help because our fears of being judged. No longer do you have to suffer alone or in silence from: trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, divorce or relationship difficulties. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 17 years of experience who will compassionately & effectively assist you through the counseling process. The "RDH Factor" of being able to Reveal, Deal, and Heal will provide empowerment. Working with clients to find relief & make changes towards freedom in making decisions & choices is a passion of mine.
I am Certified in EMDR, an evidenced based therapy that treats trauma, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, and pain to alliviate psychological distress.
Where the healing begins...takes personal courage. Often times, it is not easy to ask for help because our fears of being judged. No longer do you have to suffer alone or in silence from: trauma, addictions, depression, anxiety, grief/loss, divorce or relationship difficulties. I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 17 years of experience who will compassionately & effectively assist you through the counseling process. The "RDH Factor" of being able to Reveal, Deal, and Heal will provide empowerment. Working with clients to find relief & make changes towards freedom in making decisions & choices is a passion of mine.
(657) 293-0029 View (657) 293-0029
Photo of Jason Odegaard, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jason Odegaard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92886  (Online Only)
I am also certified in EMDR (Trauma therapy) and Prepare and Enrich (couples and pre-marital).
Are you finding it hard to get through your day without feeling anxious, angry, or sad? Do you often isolate yourself from family and friends? Could you be someone who struggles with understanding why you can't get along with other people? Have you recently lost a loved one or relationship and need support to work through your grief? I have a passion to help those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and relationship issues. My other strengths include: work problems, family problems, self-esteem issues, trauma, PTSD, addiction, childhood issues, spiritual identity, sexual identity, and many others.
I am also certified in EMDR (Trauma therapy) and Prepare and Enrich (couples and pre-marital).
Are you finding it hard to get through your day without feeling anxious, angry, or sad? Do you often isolate yourself from family and friends? Could you be someone who struggles with understanding why you can't get along with other people? Have you recently lost a loved one or relationship and need support to work through your grief? I have a passion to help those who are struggling with anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and relationship issues. My other strengths include: work problems, family problems, self-esteem issues, trauma, PTSD, addiction, childhood issues, spiritual identity, sexual identity, and many others.
(714) 923-7181 View (714) 923-7181
Photo of Michelle Ng, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Ng
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
My specialties are working with veterans, first responders, and anyone dealing with the effects of trauma employing techniques from EMDR and Neurofeedback to help relieve anxiety.
I commend you for taking that first step of seeking help! Issues of life can be challenging and confusing at times, but it doesn't have to be a negative experience. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for you to feel comfortable enough to explore your emotions. Allow me to journey with you during these difficulties to lend support and help you to gain insight into your situation. Together we will make sense out of the chaos and the confusion to gain understanding and allow you to respond in a meaningful way.
My specialties are working with veterans, first responders, and anyone dealing with the effects of trauma employing techniques from EMDR and Neurofeedback to help relieve anxiety.
I commend you for taking that first step of seeking help! Issues of life can be challenging and confusing at times, but it doesn't have to be a negative experience. My goal is to provide a safe and nurturing environment for you to feel comfortable enough to explore your emotions. Allow me to journey with you during these difficulties to lend support and help you to gain insight into your situation. Together we will make sense out of the chaos and the confusion to gain understanding and allow you to respond in a meaningful way.
(323) 856-1471 View (323) 856-1471
Photo of Fanay Loiselle, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fanay Loiselle
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886  (Online Only)
I am also EMDR Certified which can be an effective alternative to traditional talk therapy.
Sometimes life can be difficult and we can get stuck in ways that keep us from achieving our full potential. Many people stay too long in a place of unhappiness and despair. If you are anxious, depressed, grieving, have difficulties at work, have been thru a traumatic experience or just feel stuck and hopeless, you need someone to understand you and provide the professional support and expertise to help you feel good again. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, children and families of various backgrounds.
I am also EMDR Certified which can be an effective alternative to traditional talk therapy.
Sometimes life can be difficult and we can get stuck in ways that keep us from achieving our full potential. Many people stay too long in a place of unhappiness and despair. If you are anxious, depressed, grieving, have difficulties at work, have been thru a traumatic experience or just feel stuck and hopeless, you need someone to understand you and provide the professional support and expertise to help you feel good again. I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, children and families of various backgrounds.
(714) 695-5402 View (714) 695-5402
Photo of Jennifer L Fee - Dr. Jennifer Fee Psychology Services, Inc, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Jennifer Fee Psychology Services, Inc
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) might be an option for you.
Everywhere you go, you experience reminders of the past even though you are desperately trying to put "the past in the past." When you lie down at night sleep escapes you because your thoughts won't stop racing. You fear having another nightmare. You don’t live life like everyone else Maybe you don’t go to parties anymore. Your friends don’t understand why you don’t date. You feel uncomfortable around strangers. You experience anxiety and depression, but those words don't quite capture your experience.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) might be an option for you.
Everywhere you go, you experience reminders of the past even though you are desperately trying to put "the past in the past." When you lie down at night sleep escapes you because your thoughts won't stop racing. You fear having another nightmare. You don’t live life like everyone else Maybe you don’t go to parties anymore. Your friends don’t understand why you don’t date. You feel uncomfortable around strangers. You experience anxiety and depression, but those words don't quite capture your experience.
(562) 551-8933 View (562) 551-8933
Photo of Margaret Van Ackeren, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Margaret Van Ackeren
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
I am also trained and qualified to provide EMDR and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy .
Be a better you. People seek out therapy for several reasons. Self-exploration, growth, change, and learning new coping strategies are just a few reasons. Finding a therapist to guide and support you along the way will make these tasks simpler and possibly even enjoyable. I treat individuals, couples, and families looking to find relief from emotional and psychological troubles and become their best self. While treatment for Asperger's Syndrome, Anxiety, Trauma, and Depression are my specialties, I also work with people who struggle with addiction, relationship problems, sexuality uncertainties, and low self-esteem.
I am also trained and qualified to provide EMDR and Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy .
Be a better you. People seek out therapy for several reasons. Self-exploration, growth, change, and learning new coping strategies are just a few reasons. Finding a therapist to guide and support you along the way will make these tasks simpler and possibly even enjoyable. I treat individuals, couples, and families looking to find relief from emotional and psychological troubles and become their best self. While treatment for Asperger's Syndrome, Anxiety, Trauma, and Depression are my specialties, I also work with people who struggle with addiction, relationship problems, sexuality uncertainties, and low self-esteem.
(714) 613-0841 View (714) 613-0841
Photo of Dr. Julie H Lee - The Connection Corp, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
The Connection Corp
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Are you looking to enhance your healing process? Are you ready for tangible change? Here at The Connection, we promote healing through therapy and motion. We're here to guide and provide support as you work toward balancing your physical and mental selves and to learn to slow down. We treat a large variety of presenting concerns in different modalities such as trauma informed yoga therapy, walk therapy, EMDR, traditional talk therapy in various settings, play therapy and individual/personalized yoga sessions. We provide a safe and inviting environment to promote the therapeutic trust and connection.
Are you looking to enhance your healing process? Are you ready for tangible change? Here at The Connection, we promote healing through therapy and motion. We're here to guide and provide support as you work toward balancing your physical and mental selves and to learn to slow down. We treat a large variety of presenting concerns in different modalities such as trauma informed yoga therapy, walk therapy, EMDR, traditional talk therapy in various settings, play therapy and individual/personalized yoga sessions. We provide a safe and inviting environment to promote the therapeutic trust and connection.
(657) 239-3720 View (657) 239-3720
Photo of Mary E Eason, PhD, Psychologist
Mary E Eason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
Consultation services for EMDR trained clinicians available upon request.
I know that life can be stressful, even for the strongest person. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or just in need of someone to listen, please call. My goal would be to help you maximize your potential and remove any obstacles that are interfering with your happiness. I believe that by supporting and empowering you, you can change your world.
Consultation services for EMDR trained clinicians available upon request.
I know that life can be stressful, even for the strongest person. If you are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or just in need of someone to listen, please call. My goal would be to help you maximize your potential and remove any obstacles that are interfering with your happiness. I believe that by supporting and empowering you, you can change your world.
(714) 681-1801 View (714) 681-1801
Photo of Benedict Choi, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Benedict Choi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92886
I am trained in Trauma focused CBT and EMDR.
I offer a safe and supportive environment to help you identify and resolve unhealthy patterns that keep you from moving forward. You might be feeling stuck due to becoming emotionally disconnected with your partner, experiencing a traumatic event or struggling to perform at your optimal level at work. You want to rediscover intimacy, purpose and joy. Let me join you in developing effective coping skills to manage life's daily challenges.
I am trained in Trauma focused CBT and EMDR.
I offer a safe and supportive environment to help you identify and resolve unhealthy patterns that keep you from moving forward. You might be feeling stuck due to becoming emotionally disconnected with your partner, experiencing a traumatic event or struggling to perform at your optimal level at work. You want to rediscover intimacy, purpose and joy. Let me join you in developing effective coping skills to manage life's daily challenges.
(714) 880-8775 View (714) 880-8775
Photo of Jennifer Carroll, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Jennifer Carroll
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Yorba Linda, CA 92686
I am also EMDR trained to treat trauma and PTSD.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” Carl Rogers
I am also EMDR trained to treat trauma and PTSD.
“The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change.” Carl Rogers
(657) 243-8130 View (657) 243-8130
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.