EMDR Therapists in Fresno, CA

Photo of Cindy Vang, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cindy Vang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93720
I am EMDR certified and trained in multiple modalities and treatment theories including but not limited to play therapy, narrative therapy, attachment focused therapies, and motivational interviewing.
My core philosophy on effective therapy is one that is relationship-driven and collaborative of my client’s views and narratives that guide their life stories. I believe that clients are the expert of their lives and that my role is to be a guide and witness to the stories that my clients bring into treatment. Every session is crucial to the overall health and well-being of my clients, and so I believe in creating a space that will allow for freedom, agency, and safety in expressing and fully showing up as one needs to.
I am EMDR certified and trained in multiple modalities and treatment theories including but not limited to play therapy, narrative therapy, attachment focused therapies, and motivational interviewing.
My core philosophy on effective therapy is one that is relationship-driven and collaborative of my client’s views and narratives that guide their life stories. I believe that clients are the expert of their lives and that my role is to be a guide and witness to the stories that my clients bring into treatment. Every session is crucial to the overall health and well-being of my clients, and so I believe in creating a space that will allow for freedom, agency, and safety in expressing and fully showing up as one needs to.
(559) 206-6447 View (559) 206-6447
Photo of Theresa Linville, MS, PPS, LCSW, CEDS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Linville
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MS, PPS, LCSW, CEDS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93720  (Online Only)
I specialize in an effective treatment called EMDR therapy.
I work with clients with body image issues, poor self-esteem, eating disorders, and anxiety. I work from a Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating framework. I also work with athletes with post-injury concerns, competitive blocks and burn out. My goal is to provide a space for clients to find relief from negative/obsessive thoughts, restore health, resolve conflicted relationships, improve mood and achieve the life that they desire. I am certified in EMDR therapy, Eating Disorders, and sports psychology. I believe that the therapist-client relationship is unique in helping the client reach their full potential.
I specialize in an effective treatment called EMDR therapy.
I work with clients with body image issues, poor self-esteem, eating disorders, and anxiety. I work from a Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating framework. I also work with athletes with post-injury concerns, competitive blocks and burn out. My goal is to provide a space for clients to find relief from negative/obsessive thoughts, restore health, resolve conflicted relationships, improve mood and achieve the life that they desire. I am certified in EMDR therapy, Eating Disorders, and sports psychology. I believe that the therapist-client relationship is unique in helping the client reach their full potential.
(559) 358-4442 View (559) 358-4442
Photo of Catherine G Harris, PsyD, Psychologist
Catherine G Harris
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
The best gift you can get yourself is to find a way to be comfortable in your own skin. My practice is focused on working with you to get to the point where you can give yourself that gift. I provide services through individual and group therapy, assessments, intensives and retreats. Types of treatment options available: talk therapy, EMDR, EFT, psychedelic assisted psychotherapy, and nature-based practices. Those who are the best fit for my practice are struggling with identity issues, gender-, sexuality- and relationship-related diversity issues, trauma, anxiety, grief & loss, death anxiety, NDEs, spirituality issues, & bad trips.
The best gift you can get yourself is to find a way to be comfortable in your own skin. My practice is focused on working with you to get to the point where you can give yourself that gift. I provide services through individual and group therapy, assessments, intensives and retreats. Types of treatment options available: talk therapy, EMDR, EFT, psychedelic assisted psychotherapy, and nature-based practices. Those who are the best fit for my practice are struggling with identity issues, gender-, sexuality- and relationship-related diversity issues, trauma, anxiety, grief & loss, death anxiety, NDEs, spirituality issues, & bad trips.
(559) 245-3208 x100 View (559) 245-3208 x100
Photo of Katrina Blair - Blair Marriage and Family Therapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Blair Marriage and Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711
We have a group of diverse EMDR Therapists.
We believe people can change and have it within them. At Blair Marriage and Family Therapy we offer therapy services for adults, couples, children. We start with a phone call screening, initial assessment/treatment plan, then ongoing therapy sessions. The time is NOW to start your healing journey today. We provide services online via telehealth, and/or in person to anyone located in the state of California.
We have a group of diverse EMDR Therapists.
We believe people can change and have it within them. At Blair Marriage and Family Therapy we offer therapy services for adults, couples, children. We start with a phone call screening, initial assessment/treatment plan, then ongoing therapy sessions. The time is NOW to start your healing journey today. We provide services online via telehealth, and/or in person to anyone located in the state of California.
(559) 337-5800 View (559) 337-5800
Photo of Heather Gumm, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Gumm
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711
Welcome! I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to navigate life's challenges and deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them. My goal is to meet you where you are and provide a comfortable space to be yourself and work through life challenges. I am trained in EMDR and utilize a strength based & person-centered approach as well as other modalities such as mindfulness. I enjoy working with children, adolescents & adults experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, and trauma. I also work with pet grief & loss. I enjoy including pets in the therapy process too!
Welcome! I provide a safe and non-judgmental space for clients to navigate life's challenges and deepen their understanding of themselves and the world around them. My goal is to meet you where you are and provide a comfortable space to be yourself and work through life challenges. I am trained in EMDR and utilize a strength based & person-centered approach as well as other modalities such as mindfulness. I enjoy working with children, adolescents & adults experiencing anxiety, stress, life transitions, and trauma. I also work with pet grief & loss. I enjoy including pets in the therapy process too!
(559) 663-0976 View (559) 663-0976
Photo of Antionette D Brookins, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Antionette D Brookins
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711  (Online Only)
Hi, I'm Dr. Brookins licensed marriage and family therapist. I'm also a senior pastor's wife and I specialize in counseling Christian women. Growing up in the church I understand first hand, the sensitive and often complex needs of Christian believers. And as a skilled licensed mental health professional, I also understand that our mental health matters. And, Jesus does not want us to suffer. As a Strengths-Based therapist, I utilize CBT, EMDR, and Solution Focused interventions in treatment. I also offer a variety of coaching packages specifically designed for the Christian woman.
Hi, I'm Dr. Brookins licensed marriage and family therapist. I'm also a senior pastor's wife and I specialize in counseling Christian women. Growing up in the church I understand first hand, the sensitive and often complex needs of Christian believers. And as a skilled licensed mental health professional, I also understand that our mental health matters. And, Jesus does not want us to suffer. As a Strengths-Based therapist, I utilize CBT, EMDR, and Solution Focused interventions in treatment. I also offer a variety of coaching packages specifically designed for the Christian woman.
(559) 234-4677 View (559) 234-4677
Photo of Johnny Dell Simmons, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Johnny Dell Simmons
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
I have also been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR) to effectively treat trauma and many other forms of psychological stress.
Do you ever find yourself feeling worried all of the time? Do you feel sad and/or feel as if you have little to no energy? Do you find it difficult to interact with others? Have you experienced trauma and feel things are still unresolved? Do you ever just feel "stuck" in life? As captains of our journeys, things can become overwhelming. Anxiety, depression and so many other issues can arise and cause us to feel debilitated. Let us learn how to develop the skills and techniques to be the captains we choose to be. Let us embark on the journey of life together.
I have also been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR) to effectively treat trauma and many other forms of psychological stress.
Do you ever find yourself feeling worried all of the time? Do you feel sad and/or feel as if you have little to no energy? Do you find it difficult to interact with others? Have you experienced trauma and feel things are still unresolved? Do you ever just feel "stuck" in life? As captains of our journeys, things can become overwhelming. Anxiety, depression and so many other issues can arise and cause us to feel debilitated. Let us learn how to develop the skills and techniques to be the captains we choose to be. Let us embark on the journey of life together.
(323) 642-6703 View (323) 642-6703
Photo of Erene Soliman - Dr. Soliman, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Soliman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93704
BrainPaint/ EMDR is now being offered at my practice to lessen symptoms.
I believe in the process of change and will help my clients to move in a positive direction. I believe that change is a process and depends on an individual's needs and where an individual is with relation to the stages of change. I believe that I can help you overcome your obstacles. I have received my Postpartum Support International Certificate Training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder with hopes to help this particular population. She has also had many years of experience working with the developmentally disabled population.
BrainPaint/ EMDR is now being offered at my practice to lessen symptoms.
I believe in the process of change and will help my clients to move in a positive direction. I believe that change is a process and depends on an individual's needs and where an individual is with relation to the stages of change. I believe that I can help you overcome your obstacles. I have received my Postpartum Support International Certificate Training in Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder with hopes to help this particular population. She has also had many years of experience working with the developmentally disabled population.
(559) 549-9615 View (559) 549-9615
Photo of Susie Meraz - Safe And Affirmative Counseling, LMFT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Safe And Affirmative Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711
We utilize EMDR Therapy and IFS for trauma informed care.
Safe And Affirmative Counseling is a group practice located in central valley of California. The group practice is made up of over ten therapists that are all committed to serving their communities. This includes the LGBTQ+ and queer communities, BIPOC communities, and other marginalized communities. The team utilizes a client centered approach to therapy. We hope to be inviting, create a safe space to share your experiences, and guide our clients towards growth through evidence based clinical interventions. The team is diverse and is here to help with open minds, genuine passion, and a love for cultural diversity and inclusivity.
We utilize EMDR Therapy and IFS for trauma informed care.
Safe And Affirmative Counseling is a group practice located in central valley of California. The group practice is made up of over ten therapists that are all committed to serving their communities. This includes the LGBTQ+ and queer communities, BIPOC communities, and other marginalized communities. The team utilizes a client centered approach to therapy. We hope to be inviting, create a safe space to share your experiences, and guide our clients towards growth through evidence based clinical interventions. The team is diverse and is here to help with open minds, genuine passion, and a love for cultural diversity and inclusivity.
(559) 517-3039 View (559) 517-3039
Photo of Jeremy Lee Brownstein, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeremy Lee Brownstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93711
I have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), mindfulness, and Ecotherapy.
Psychotherapy is not about giving you advice or direction but helping you gain insight and resolve regarding the issues you are facing and learning strategies to assist you with getting back to living the life you want to live. I will work with you uniquely and sincerely, considering your issues, struggles, and goals while fostering transparency, respect, and humility. My areas of specialty include working with individuals impacted by trauma, depression and anxiety. I strongly believe in meeting you where you are at and collaboratively working on the goals you perceive are important.
I have advanced training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), mindfulness, and Ecotherapy.
Psychotherapy is not about giving you advice or direction but helping you gain insight and resolve regarding the issues you are facing and learning strategies to assist you with getting back to living the life you want to live. I will work with you uniquely and sincerely, considering your issues, struggles, and goals while fostering transparency, respect, and humility. My areas of specialty include working with individuals impacted by trauma, depression and anxiety. I strongly believe in meeting you where you are at and collaboratively working on the goals you perceive are important.
(559) 540-8763 View (559) 540-8763
Photo of Roxana Alessio, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roxana Alessio
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711  (Online Only)
I specialize in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy- EMDR, DBT, CBT and solution-focused therapies.
Life can be hard at times and sometimes we need someone to help us figure things out, help us see our strengths, or just to be there and provide nonjudgmental listening. As an LCSW at Transcendence Psychological Services, that is what I do. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. I treat those struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, grief, loss, relationship issues, and trauma. I see the importance of promoting healing and growth. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them meet their goals and focus on increasing self-acceptance, assertiveness, and fulfillment.
I specialize in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy- EMDR, DBT, CBT and solution-focused therapies.
Life can be hard at times and sometimes we need someone to help us figure things out, help us see our strengths, or just to be there and provide nonjudgmental listening. As an LCSW at Transcendence Psychological Services, that is what I do. I enjoy working with individuals of all ages, couples, and families. I treat those struggling with anxiety, panic, depression, grief, loss, relationship issues, and trauma. I see the importance of promoting healing and growth. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them meet their goals and focus on increasing self-acceptance, assertiveness, and fulfillment.
(559) 354-3861 View (559) 354-3861
Photo of Analiese Meg Domingos - Analiese Domingos LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Analiese Domingos LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93704
I am fully trained in EMDR.
Hello, and thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I provide a safe, respectful and nurturing environment for individuals and couples to process and explore a range of life events causing emotional distress. I work collaboratively to help you identify your strengths and start finding solutions that will enhance your life and relationships. I look forward to the opportunity to support you in your journey of healing and help you to achieve the personal growth that you are looking for; you deserve to be the best version of yourself!
I am fully trained in EMDR.
Hello, and thank you for taking the time to view my profile. I provide a safe, respectful and nurturing environment for individuals and couples to process and explore a range of life events causing emotional distress. I work collaboratively to help you identify your strengths and start finding solutions that will enhance your life and relationships. I look forward to the opportunity to support you in your journey of healing and help you to achieve the personal growth that you are looking for; you deserve to be the best version of yourself!
(559) 533-6930 View (559) 533-6930
Photo of Alissa Zemede, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alissa Zemede
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93710
I am trained in EMDR therapy, with additional training in complex trauma, dissociation, and OCD.
I am passionate about working with clients with trauma history, PTSD, anxiety, and relationship/boundary issues.
I am trained in EMDR therapy, with additional training in complex trauma, dissociation, and OCD.
I am passionate about working with clients with trauma history, PTSD, anxiety, and relationship/boundary issues.
(559) 234-3465 View (559) 234-3465
Photo of Juan 'tony' Quintanilla, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Juan 'tony' Quintanilla
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93704
Other elements will inform our work such as artwork produced in session, verbal processing, EMDR Trauma Reprocessing, dream analysis, exploration and modification of thought, communication & behavior patterns (and neuropathways).
For the past 18 years, I have been providing therapy to children, teens, adults, parents and families. I work with individuals suffering through depression, anxiety, grief, anger, trauma, mood fluctuations and behavioral issues, by emotional-bodily processing & reworking old family, archetypal, communication and thought patterns that may no longer be serving your growth in a safe, supporting, nurturing and non-judgmental space. My approach is a holistic one that incorporates the mental, emotional, physical & spiritual realms to help bring about symptom relief and empowered change.
Other elements will inform our work such as artwork produced in session, verbal processing, EMDR Trauma Reprocessing, dream analysis, exploration and modification of thought, communication & behavior patterns (and neuropathways).
For the past 18 years, I have been providing therapy to children, teens, adults, parents and families. I work with individuals suffering through depression, anxiety, grief, anger, trauma, mood fluctuations and behavioral issues, by emotional-bodily processing & reworking old family, archetypal, communication and thought patterns that may no longer be serving your growth in a safe, supporting, nurturing and non-judgmental space. My approach is a holistic one that incorporates the mental, emotional, physical & spiritual realms to help bring about symptom relief and empowered change.
(559) 934-5508 View (559) 934-5508
Photo of Daniel Karkoska, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Daniel Karkoska
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93705  (Online Only)
I specialize in providing treatment to those who have experienced any type of trauma, utilizing skills-based therapies such as CBT/DBT, as well as techniques from IFS and Polyvagal theory to inform the EMDR process.
Whether you are going through a difficult transition in life or have some long-standing issues you're now ready to work on, I'm here to walk along side you. I work primarily with individuals, and occasionally with families and couples. Individually, I help disentangle the complicated thoughts and emotions that can make day-to-day tasks, or even life-changing decisions, feel unmanageable.
I specialize in providing treatment to those who have experienced any type of trauma, utilizing skills-based therapies such as CBT/DBT, as well as techniques from IFS and Polyvagal theory to inform the EMDR process.
Whether you are going through a difficult transition in life or have some long-standing issues you're now ready to work on, I'm here to walk along side you. I work primarily with individuals, and occasionally with families and couples. Individually, I help disentangle the complicated thoughts and emotions that can make day-to-day tasks, or even life-changing decisions, feel unmanageable.
(559) 316-5632 View (559) 316-5632
Photo of Rohina Fazil - Omid Counseling Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Omid Counseling Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93711
We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Motivational Interviewing techniques.
Omid Counseling Center provides mental health services to children and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship challenges and other life stressors. We work with individuals to assist them to improve their ability to function at home, school and work. We are currently accepting new clients! We accept the following insurances: Cigna, Aetna, Blue Shield of California, Anthem Blue Cross Medi-Cal, and Cal-Viva Medi-Cal.
We specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), and Motivational Interviewing techniques.
Omid Counseling Center provides mental health services to children and adults who are experiencing anxiety, depression, trauma, addiction, relationship challenges and other life stressors. We work with individuals to assist them to improve their ability to function at home, school and work. We are currently accepting new clients! We accept the following insurances: Cigna, Aetna, Blue Shield of California, Anthem Blue Cross Medi-Cal, and Cal-Viva Medi-Cal.
(559) 492-8327 View (559) 492-8327
Photo of Cassondra Hudspeth, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cassondra Hudspeth
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93703  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR and use DBT, IFS, Inner Child techniques, and other methods.
Hello and Welcome! Interested in healing your Inner Child, learning to love yourself, and creating healthy relationships? I understand how rough life can feel as you try to function as a human in this world. In my practice, I provide a supportive judgement-free environment to assist you with achieving your mental health goals. Your voice matters and I would be delighted to assist you with developing strengths to advocate for your needs. Healing is not linear and may feel uncomfortable at times, but you do not have to do it alone.
I am trained in EMDR and use DBT, IFS, Inner Child techniques, and other methods.
Hello and Welcome! Interested in healing your Inner Child, learning to love yourself, and creating healthy relationships? I understand how rough life can feel as you try to function as a human in this world. In my practice, I provide a supportive judgement-free environment to assist you with achieving your mental health goals. Your voice matters and I would be delighted to assist you with developing strengths to advocate for your needs. Healing is not linear and may feel uncomfortable at times, but you do not have to do it alone.
(559) 466-9692 View (559) 466-9692
Photo of Jenhi Garcia, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jenhi Garcia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Fresno, CA 93728  (Online Only)
I practice trauma-informed therapy, using modalities like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and CBT, and utilize creativity and flexibility to personalize therapy for individual adults.
Welcome! I’m glad to meet you on your path to healing! You’re here because you’re motivated to understand and recover from the pain and struggles you’ve experienced. You may feel “not like myself,” unable to connect with others, and unable to reach your goals. You have a hard time expressing yourself and your emotions. You feel lost and hopeless, more often than you’d like. You want to be free from the crippling self-doubt, self-criticism, and negativity that keeps you from embodying your best self. You feel it’s time to start prioritizing your emotional well-being and join the societal shift around mental health.
I practice trauma-informed therapy, using modalities like Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and CBT, and utilize creativity and flexibility to personalize therapy for individual adults.
Welcome! I’m glad to meet you on your path to healing! You’re here because you’re motivated to understand and recover from the pain and struggles you’ve experienced. You may feel “not like myself,” unable to connect with others, and unable to reach your goals. You have a hard time expressing yourself and your emotions. You feel lost and hopeless, more often than you’d like. You want to be free from the crippling self-doubt, self-criticism, and negativity that keeps you from embodying your best self. You feel it’s time to start prioritizing your emotional well-being and join the societal shift around mental health.
(559) 234-0735 View (559) 234-0735
Photo of Dr. Danielle Orosco, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Danielle Orosco
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93703
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) based approaches while integrating Motivational Interviewing techniques throughout my clinical practice.
Empathy and trust are essential when working with individuals in therapy. As a Licensed Psychologist, I strongly believe creating a supportive and compassionate space for my clients helps facilitate a deeper level of growth and healing. I prioritize fostering a strong, therapeutic alliance with all of my clients and I am passionate about providing quality, therapeutic care to others.
I utilize a variety of treatment modalities such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) based approaches while integrating Motivational Interviewing techniques throughout my clinical practice.
Empathy and trust are essential when working with individuals in therapy. As a Licensed Psychologist, I strongly believe creating a supportive and compassionate space for my clients helps facilitate a deeper level of growth and healing. I prioritize fostering a strong, therapeutic alliance with all of my clients and I am passionate about providing quality, therapeutic care to others.
(559) 780-8695 View (559) 780-8695
Photo of Marcie D. Taylor, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marcie D. Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Fresno, CA 93704
I have specialized training in trauma informed care, infant mental health, perinatal mental health, EMDR, Touch Points, and family reunification.
Striving to be a better version of ourselves is difficult to achieve alone. I am here to provide a space to support you in all the life goals you are seeking to achieve. I am an attachment-based therapist with years of experience in the mental health field from school-based services to family court system. I enjoy working with children, families, moms, dads, and adolescents.
I have specialized training in trauma informed care, infant mental health, perinatal mental health, EMDR, Touch Points, and family reunification.
Striving to be a better version of ourselves is difficult to achieve alone. I am here to provide a space to support you in all the life goals you are seeking to achieve. I am an attachment-based therapist with years of experience in the mental health field from school-based services to family court system. I enjoy working with children, families, moms, dads, and adolescents.
(559) 272-8952 View (559) 272-8952
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.