EMDR Therapists in Huntington Beach, CA

Photo of Katherine van Heerden, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katherine van Heerden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92648  (Online Only)
I am certified in DBT and trained in EMDR.
I have been licensed for 7 years and working with a variety of issues including trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relationship conflict, and women's issues.
I am certified in DBT and trained in EMDR.
I have been licensed for 7 years and working with a variety of issues including trauma/PTSD, anxiety, depression, mood disorders, relationship conflict, and women's issues.
(657) 837-5086 View (657) 837-5086
Photo of Brittney Green, LMFT, EMDR, IFS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brittney Green
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I also utilize EMDR to process trauma and reinforce positive self-beliefs.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
I also utilize EMDR to process trauma and reinforce positive self-beliefs.
Life can feel impossible to avoid struggling and we often don't feel we have the skills to cope successfully through. Unfortunately, sometimes we don't have all the resources we need for a given situation. Parts of us take on desperate roles trying to help us to survive. This might look like anxiety, depression, PTSD, addiction, and relationship/family issues. I aim to help you process unresolved issues and feelings and find solutions.
(714) 924-3426 View (714) 924-3426
Photo of Christine Gonzalez, MA, LMFT, CDAAC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christine Gonzalez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CDAAC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Effective treatments like EMDR, guided imagery, creative arts, CBT, DBT, EFT, etc.
News causing stress? Conflict at home? Let me help you to navigate this difficult time. Online, phone, & office sessions. Fees tax deductible or reimbursable. Learn to take better care of yourself, meet your social needs, & restore some peace and joy in your life. You can have this. We can work together to find the relief & answers you need. If you want to reduce stress & worry, survive AND thrive, & find wholeness in the midst of uncertainty, CALL me. Life CAN be better. Don't spend another day suffering, or let anything stop you from getting the help you need. Specialties: Trauma, EMDR, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Kids, Families.
Effective treatments like EMDR, guided imagery, creative arts, CBT, DBT, EFT, etc.
News causing stress? Conflict at home? Let me help you to navigate this difficult time. Online, phone, & office sessions. Fees tax deductible or reimbursable. Learn to take better care of yourself, meet your social needs, & restore some peace and joy in your life. You can have this. We can work together to find the relief & answers you need. If you want to reduce stress & worry, survive AND thrive, & find wholeness in the midst of uncertainty, CALL me. Life CAN be better. Don't spend another day suffering, or let anything stop you from getting the help you need. Specialties: Trauma, EMDR, Depression, Anxiety, Grief, Kids, Families.
(949) 537-2252 View (949) 537-2252
Photo of Erin Beldner, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Beldner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Do you feel empty or like something is missing from your life? Do you feel like you're stuck or repeating the same patterns? I utilize a cognitive behavioral and mindfulness based approach to explore faulty thought and behavior patterns and help clients connect to the treasure trove of inner strengths that we each possess. I believe that we have the answers within us, but may need help to unlock what is holding us back and discover what we need to move forward. My training in Attachment Focused EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy can be helpful tools in understanding and healing from traumatic events and painful experiences.
Do you feel empty or like something is missing from your life? Do you feel like you're stuck or repeating the same patterns? I utilize a cognitive behavioral and mindfulness based approach to explore faulty thought and behavior patterns and help clients connect to the treasure trove of inner strengths that we each possess. I believe that we have the answers within us, but may need help to unlock what is holding us back and discover what we need to move forward. My training in Attachment Focused EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy can be helpful tools in understanding and healing from traumatic events and painful experiences.
(323) 716-1714 View (323) 716-1714
Photo of Meghan Mirabal, AMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Meghan Mirabal
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
I offer EMDR, ART and Brainspotting therapies, as these approaches equip me with specialized knowledge and skills to address painful memories, disturbances, and traumatic incidents that can occur in life.
I see myself as a straightforward and approachable clinician who will definitely hold you accountable but, most importantly, walk alongside you. The bravest step is making that connection. I am here. Ready when you are.
I offer EMDR, ART and Brainspotting therapies, as these approaches equip me with specialized knowledge and skills to address painful memories, disturbances, and traumatic incidents that can occur in life.
I see myself as a straightforward and approachable clinician who will definitely hold you accountable but, most importantly, walk alongside you. The bravest step is making that connection. I am here. Ready when you are.
(657) 297-4154 View (657) 297-4154
Photo of Dorise Hebenstreit, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Dorise Hebenstreit
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I specialize in EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is an evidence-based treatment approach shown to help overcome trauma-related difficulties.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
I specialize in EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is an evidence-based treatment approach shown to help overcome trauma-related difficulties.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
(714) 515-7807 View (714) 515-7807
Photo of Amy Field, LMFT, CAS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Field
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CAS
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92646
I am EMDR trained to assist in working through trauma issues.
Trying to solve a problem with the same mind that created is difficult to do alone. Lets solve it together. Have you experienced many failed relationships and continue wondering how you got here again? Are you or your mate coping with sex addiction. Having relationship struggles? Do you need support with grief, loss or managing depression or anxiety feelings? Is your or a family member's drinking or drug use out of control? There is hope. As well as a Licensed Marriage Family therapist I am certified in addictions counseling and have 37 years experience working in the addiction field.
I am EMDR trained to assist in working through trauma issues.
Trying to solve a problem with the same mind that created is difficult to do alone. Lets solve it together. Have you experienced many failed relationships and continue wondering how you got here again? Are you or your mate coping with sex addiction. Having relationship struggles? Do you need support with grief, loss or managing depression or anxiety feelings? Is your or a family member's drinking or drug use out of control? There is hope. As well as a Licensed Marriage Family therapist I am certified in addictions counseling and have 37 years experience working in the addiction field.
(714) 701-6907 View (714) 701-6907
Photo of Eric Louie Dabrowski - Healing Arts Center, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Healing Arts Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I find that Self Relational Therapy, EMDR and Mindfulness are excellent methods for integrating the mind body split and overcoming trauma.
My ideal clients are adult victims of the repercussions of childhood trauma, war veterans, work stress issues, end of life, relational problems. I work especially well with men in retirement and those caught in the fight/ flight/ freeze response that shuts down their limbic system resulting in physical illness, anger/ dispare, dysfunctional memories, insomnia, dissociation and gross negative thinking. I focus particularly on working with men of all ages. Those who get caught in male stereotypes hide their pain and hurt resulting in loneliness, addiction especially men experiencing allenation from families, work in later life.
I find that Self Relational Therapy, EMDR and Mindfulness are excellent methods for integrating the mind body split and overcoming trauma.
My ideal clients are adult victims of the repercussions of childhood trauma, war veterans, work stress issues, end of life, relational problems. I work especially well with men in retirement and those caught in the fight/ flight/ freeze response that shuts down their limbic system resulting in physical illness, anger/ dispare, dysfunctional memories, insomnia, dissociation and gross negative thinking. I focus particularly on working with men of all ages. Those who get caught in male stereotypes hide their pain and hurt resulting in loneliness, addiction especially men experiencing allenation from families, work in later life.
(949) 528-4843 View (949) 528-4843
Photo of Alison Lynn Johnson, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alison Lynn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialities. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
Other specializations include EMDR, John Gottman, EFT, DBT, CBT, Art Therapy, LGBTQ, Eating Disorders, Substance Abuse and several others.
Cannot find someone who takes your insurance? Frustrated with calling therapists and not receiving a call back or there being a schedule conflict? Insightful Matters may be the solution for you. Here, you call one number and you are taken care of. You have access to using your insurance if you wish, a full range of therapists to choose from, days & times, as well as specialities. You can check out our individual profiles here on psychology today and on our website at www.insightfulmatters.com.
(714) 654-1570 View (714) 654-1570
Photo of Carrie Anne Gordon, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carrie Anne Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
I often utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to work with my client's trauma.
Clients often experience challenges that manifest in anxiety, depression, substance abuse and relational issues. They need a supportive clinician that can hold space for them to do the self-exploration and reflection needed to experience healing. I find that these issues usually stem from early relational wounds. Understanding the root cause for distress can be the most impactful and sustainable approach to long-term healing. I am passionate about helping my clients establish a greater sense of self so that they can thrive in their relationships and their lives.
I often utilize EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) to work with my client's trauma.
Clients often experience challenges that manifest in anxiety, depression, substance abuse and relational issues. They need a supportive clinician that can hold space for them to do the self-exploration and reflection needed to experience healing. I find that these issues usually stem from early relational wounds. Understanding the root cause for distress can be the most impactful and sustainable approach to long-term healing. I am passionate about helping my clients establish a greater sense of self so that they can thrive in their relationships and their lives.
(714) 459-5808 View (714) 459-5808
Photo of Kala Carrick, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kala Carrick
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
Hello! I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy and Havening Technique for the treatment of Trauma, Anxiety, and Major Depression. Dealing with day-to-day responsibilities while managing mental health struggles all at the same time can be tough. It can feel like you are constantly running on empty. It doesn't have to feel this way forever. I offer a nonjudgmental and compassionate space for you to explore your goals and values, work through obstacles, and decrease emotional distress. I offer a 15 minute consultation over the phone. Feel free to reach out and I will call you within 24 hours.
Hello! I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy and Havening Technique for the treatment of Trauma, Anxiety, and Major Depression. Dealing with day-to-day responsibilities while managing mental health struggles all at the same time can be tough. It can feel like you are constantly running on empty. It doesn't have to feel this way forever. I offer a nonjudgmental and compassionate space for you to explore your goals and values, work through obstacles, and decrease emotional distress. I offer a 15 minute consultation over the phone. Feel free to reach out and I will call you within 24 hours.
(714) 515-6845 View (714) 515-6845
Photo of Delanie Meldman, ASW
Delanie Meldman
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
EMDR therapy, somatic experiencing, art and music, and parts work offer transformational healing.
Feeling stuck? Do you find yourself spiraling between depression and anxiety? Trouble with relationships, making decisions, being truly 'present' in your daily life, or emotionally overwhelmed? Are you acting out in ways that do not serve you? The truth is, when we experience chronic stress or trauma, especially early on in life, our nervous system can get stuck - often causing us to feel completely out of control or completely shut down. My commitment is to help you get un-stuck. I'd love to help you heal.
EMDR therapy, somatic experiencing, art and music, and parts work offer transformational healing.
Feeling stuck? Do you find yourself spiraling between depression and anxiety? Trouble with relationships, making decisions, being truly 'present' in your daily life, or emotionally overwhelmed? Are you acting out in ways that do not serve you? The truth is, when we experience chronic stress or trauma, especially early on in life, our nervous system can get stuck - often causing us to feel completely out of control or completely shut down. My commitment is to help you get un-stuck. I'd love to help you heal.
(657) 837-2086 View (657) 837-2086
Photo of Sheryl L Curl, MA, MFT, RN, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sheryl L Curl
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, RN
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
EMDR has been proven as an effective way to treat such issues.
I enjoy treating individuals, couples, and families. Having had extensive training in the treatment of couples and years of experience in a correctional system, I am well versed in numerous issues of concern such as, various addictions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relational and family of origin issues. I have twenty years of experience as a clinician and also possess a Registered Nurse license with years of medical experience in the field of trauma and critical care. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, an evidenced based treatment for trauma) and also trained in Trauma Focused CBT.
EMDR has been proven as an effective way to treat such issues.
I enjoy treating individuals, couples, and families. Having had extensive training in the treatment of couples and years of experience in a correctional system, I am well versed in numerous issues of concern such as, various addictions, depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma, relational and family of origin issues. I have twenty years of experience as a clinician and also possess a Registered Nurse license with years of medical experience in the field of trauma and critical care. I am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, an evidenced based treatment for trauma) and also trained in Trauma Focused CBT.
(714) 433-9859 View (714) 433-9859
Photo of Cherie Elise Lundeen, LPCC, MS
Cherie Elise Lundeen
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC, MS
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92648  (Online Only)
If utilized, EMDR can facilitate amazing breakthroughs.
Life is complex. I can be that empathetic therapist that sits with you; validating, teaching, facilitating parts work (IFS) and trauma processing, and working to relieve distress, pain, fear, or relationship challenges. I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) which is an evidence based and effective treatment for trauma. Using an integrative approach to therapy and using the right interventions; anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, dependency, and co-addictions can be treated effectively. I also help those experiencing narcissistic abuse or navigating divorce and other grief experiences.
If utilized, EMDR can facilitate amazing breakthroughs.
Life is complex. I can be that empathetic therapist that sits with you; validating, teaching, facilitating parts work (IFS) and trauma processing, and working to relieve distress, pain, fear, or relationship challenges. I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) which is an evidence based and effective treatment for trauma. Using an integrative approach to therapy and using the right interventions; anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship problems, dependency, and co-addictions can be treated effectively. I also help those experiencing narcissistic abuse or navigating divorce and other grief experiences.
(657) 366-5768 View (657) 366-5768
Photo of Justine Gordon, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I draw from EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
I draw from EMDR, psychodynamic therapy, CBT, and DBT.
Navigating life's challenges is never easy, but reaching out for help is a brave first step to living a more genuine and fulfilling life. I have expertise in working with individuals struggling with childhood trauma and trauma-related symptoms such as grief, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and relational conflict. I believe every client is unique and deserves to be listened to and understood in an empathetic way. I am passionate about creating a safe, kind, collaborative and judgment-free space where clients can attain new insights, experience new feelings, and find a renewed sense of physical and mental well-being.
(714) 912-1875 View (714) 912-1875
Photo of Anna Elizabeth Morley, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Elizabeth Morley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing( EMDR); which is extremely effective in helping individuals re-process their trauma.
My goal is to assist teens and their families establish healthy communication and connection. I offer warmth and empathy, coupled with education, experience, and evidence-based tools. For the past ten years I have help teens improve their self-concept, establish healthy boundaries, improve mood, and work through traumas. Also, my training in family systems theory allows me to understand the important role each family member plays in the well-being of their child. Therefore, I work with parents on providing the support and structure needed to help their teen strive.
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing( EMDR); which is extremely effective in helping individuals re-process their trauma.
My goal is to assist teens and their families establish healthy communication and connection. I offer warmth and empathy, coupled with education, experience, and evidence-based tools. For the past ten years I have help teens improve their self-concept, establish healthy boundaries, improve mood, and work through traumas. Also, my training in family systems theory allows me to understand the important role each family member plays in the well-being of their child. Therefore, I work with parents on providing the support and structure needed to help their teen strive.
(949) 558-3289 View (949) 558-3289
Photo of Holly Joy Argott, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Holly Joy Argott
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647  (Online Only)
My integrated, client-centered approach utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral treatment strategies.
If you're reading this, you are most likely feeling overwhelmed with stress and anxiety. You may be in the midst of a crisis, re-living traumas or depressed from repeating the same unhealthy patterns that are holding you back. Looking for help can be a daunting experience, my hope is to make that process easier for you.
My integrated, client-centered approach utilizes Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), psychodynamic, and cognitive-behavioral treatment strategies.
If you're reading this, you are most likely feeling overwhelmed with stress and anxiety. You may be in the midst of a crisis, re-living traumas or depressed from repeating the same unhealthy patterns that are holding you back. Looking for help can be a daunting experience, my hope is to make that process easier for you.
(714) 695-5196 View (714) 695-5196
Photo of Sandra Maness, LPCC
Sandra Maness
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92648
Hello, my name is Sandra Kay Maness. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I primarily use CBT, DBT, and EMDR, yet I am trained in trauma-informed, somatic, and mindfulness methods. I have a multi-modality approach to therapy - driven by the presenting problem, needs, goals, and assessment of the client. My treatment modality is client-centered. Upon client request, I am also well-versed in blending therapeutic methodology with Biblical precepts and content; when determined to provide a therapeutic benefit.
Hello, my name is Sandra Kay Maness. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I primarily use CBT, DBT, and EMDR, yet I am trained in trauma-informed, somatic, and mindfulness methods. I have a multi-modality approach to therapy - driven by the presenting problem, needs, goals, and assessment of the client. My treatment modality is client-centered. Upon client request, I am also well-versed in blending therapeutic methodology with Biblical precepts and content; when determined to provide a therapeutic benefit.
(657) 837-3901 View (657) 837-3901
Photo of Heidi Xue, AMFT, APPC, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Heidi Xue
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92647
I provide trauma-informed care, EMDR, CBT, CPT, and ACT.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
I provide trauma-informed care, EMDR, CBT, CPT, and ACT.
Do you have trouble with anxiety, depression, and relationship/family issues due to trauma? Past experiences can create imprints onto your brain that activate your fight/flight responses whenever your emotions feel dysregulated, but life without the constant feeling of being on edge is possible. Those traumatic memories don’t have to permanently influence who you are meant to be. Through therapy, you will gain control of your feelings/thoughts and your response to everyday life hurdles. Healing from trauma can create healthier beliefs about yourself and your relationships along with sustainable changes.
(714) 316-7506 View (714) 316-7506
Photo of Erin Steele, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Erin Steele
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Huntington Beach, CA 92615  (Online Only)
Using an eclectic blend of Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic EMDR we will begin to unearth strengths and possibilities that might have been long forgotten.
Hey there. I’m Erin, and I’m glad you’re here. I offer virtual therapy sessions to women and couples in California. To begin with, I’m wondering if you’re feeling stuck in life? Fearful of making any changes? Not sure what’s happening in the world and where you fit in? Experiencing job stress? Grief from a significant loss? Relationship challenges, a break up, or a rupture? As a result, anxiety and depression might be creeping into your experience and exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness, hopelessness, and overwhelm. I get it.
Using an eclectic blend of Narrative Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and Somatic EMDR we will begin to unearth strengths and possibilities that might have been long forgotten.
Hey there. I’m Erin, and I’m glad you’re here. I offer virtual therapy sessions to women and couples in California. To begin with, I’m wondering if you’re feeling stuck in life? Fearful of making any changes? Not sure what’s happening in the world and where you fit in? Experiencing job stress? Grief from a significant loss? Relationship challenges, a break up, or a rupture? As a result, anxiety and depression might be creeping into your experience and exacerbating feelings of stuck-ness, hopelessness, and overwhelm. I get it.
(714) 706-3429 View (714) 706-3429

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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.