EMDR Therapists in California

Photo of Silvia MacAllister Voermanek, LMFT, PCC, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Silvia MacAllister Voermanek
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PCC, MA
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94114
I'm here to support your personal growth journey. With nearly 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and life & executive coach, my approach empowers you to conquer mental health challenges and find your purpose. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, addiction, anger, self-doubt, or life's challenges, I'm here to help you embrace change. Get ready to embark on this transformative journey, and together, we'll unlock your full potential!
I'm here to support your personal growth journey. With nearly 20 years of experience as a psychotherapist and life & executive coach, my approach empowers you to conquer mental health challenges and find your purpose. Whether you're facing anxiety, depression, addiction, anger, self-doubt, or life's challenges, I'm here to help you embrace change. Get ready to embark on this transformative journey, and together, we'll unlock your full potential!
(415) 965-2414 View (415) 965-2414
Photo of Tim Eby-McKenzie, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tim Eby-McKenzie
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Pasadena, CA 91101
I mostly use EMDR in my practice.
Living with the impact of traumatic experiences can be a terribly painful journey. I have specialized over the past 30 years in helping people to overcome the pain that lingers in the form of depression, anxiety, troubled relationships, acute stress and post-traumatic stress. One thing I know is that there is hope for a vibrant future and healthy relationships in healing of trauma.
I mostly use EMDR in my practice.
Living with the impact of traumatic experiences can be a terribly painful journey. I have specialized over the past 30 years in helping people to overcome the pain that lingers in the form of depression, anxiety, troubled relationships, acute stress and post-traumatic stress. One thing I know is that there is hope for a vibrant future and healthy relationships in healing of trauma.
(626) 714-2716 View (626) 714-2716
Photo of Lindsay Rosser, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lindsay Rosser
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Downey, CA 90241  (Online Only)
Using a combination of EMDR, IFS, and Somatic Therapy, we’ll reduce triggers and stuck points, foster mind-body awareness, and soothe distress.
There’s a weight dragging you down. No one can see it, and you’re unsure when it appeared. But each day, it wears on you further. It shows up as a voice in your head, telling you, "No matter how hard you try, you’ll never be good enough.” It prevents you from ever truly opening up to another person and dooming your relationships. It keeps you constantly on edge – never able to let your guard down or feel safe in your own skin. And it makes it difficult to regulate your emotions, never knowing from one moment to the next what will set off a wave of sadness, rage, or panic. You want peace, but it feels out of reach.
Using a combination of EMDR, IFS, and Somatic Therapy, we’ll reduce triggers and stuck points, foster mind-body awareness, and soothe distress.
There’s a weight dragging you down. No one can see it, and you’re unsure when it appeared. But each day, it wears on you further. It shows up as a voice in your head, telling you, "No matter how hard you try, you’ll never be good enough.” It prevents you from ever truly opening up to another person and dooming your relationships. It keeps you constantly on edge – never able to let your guard down or feel safe in your own skin. And it makes it difficult to regulate your emotions, never knowing from one moment to the next what will set off a wave of sadness, rage, or panic. You want peace, but it feels out of reach.
(626) 593-4843 View (626) 593-4843
Photo of Maureen Mccracken, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Maureen Mccracken
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94118
I also work with tools such as EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), a process that helps you move through past trauma and stuck points.
Are you feeling stuck? Perhaps you're in the middle of one of life's "necessary changes," or struggling with starting on your path in the world, regarding purpose,meaning, and making a living. Perhaps you're trying to "reboot" after a loss, illness, or other life-changing experience, or trying to adjust and move forward in the midst of mid-life transition. As your therapist, I will meet you where you are at, and team up with you to create a life in which you find meaning, joy, and fulfillment.
I also work with tools such as EMDR ( Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), a process that helps you move through past trauma and stuck points.
Are you feeling stuck? Perhaps you're in the middle of one of life's "necessary changes," or struggling with starting on your path in the world, regarding purpose,meaning, and making a living. Perhaps you're trying to "reboot" after a loss, illness, or other life-changing experience, or trying to adjust and move forward in the midst of mid-life transition. As your therapist, I will meet you where you are at, and team up with you to create a life in which you find meaning, joy, and fulfillment.
(415) 683-3077 View (415) 683-3077
Photo of Mary Fleisch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Fleisch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94610
As a certified EMDR & trauma therapist, I can help you tap into your innate ability to heal from your past & find peace.
Trauma leaves us feeling broken, overwhelmed, & anxious in our relationships. Perhaps you're fed up with constant triggers in everyday situations, feeling distant from loved ones, or overwhelmed by the nagging voice that whispers "you're not enough." Maybe you can't even recall a time when things felt different. But one thing's for sure- you're over feeling terrible all the time. You're ready for relief. You're ready to experience joy in daily life without the constant mind chatter. You're ready for deep, intimate relationships where you can feel safe, loved & connected. You're ready to finally feel good.
As a certified EMDR & trauma therapist, I can help you tap into your innate ability to heal from your past & find peace.
Trauma leaves us feeling broken, overwhelmed, & anxious in our relationships. Perhaps you're fed up with constant triggers in everyday situations, feeling distant from loved ones, or overwhelmed by the nagging voice that whispers "you're not enough." Maybe you can't even recall a time when things felt different. But one thing's for sure- you're over feeling terrible all the time. You're ready for relief. You're ready to experience joy in daily life without the constant mind chatter. You're ready for deep, intimate relationships where you can feel safe, loved & connected. You're ready to finally feel good.
(510) 804-0425 View (510) 804-0425
Photo of Renee K. Miller, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Renee K. Miller
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94602
I have expertise combining cognitive behaviorial therapy, with EMDR and mindfulness techniques to help clients gain insight and clarification into the subconscious thoughts that inhibit growth and wellbeing.
My experience includes 15 years of helping clients heal themselves and their relationships.The essence of my counseling approach is each person has access to health and well being regardless of what is currently being experienced. I help clients regain that innate health through deep listening and non-judgmental feedback. I work deeply with current thoughts, beliefs and feelings about one's self to uncover deep seated self-judgment that blocks happiness. Anxiety, depression and unhappiness transform into greater peace and understanding. In turn, self awareness is enhanced which leads to greater understanding, compassion and empathy for self and others.
I have expertise combining cognitive behaviorial therapy, with EMDR and mindfulness techniques to help clients gain insight and clarification into the subconscious thoughts that inhibit growth and wellbeing.
My experience includes 15 years of helping clients heal themselves and their relationships.The essence of my counseling approach is each person has access to health and well being regardless of what is currently being experienced. I help clients regain that innate health through deep listening and non-judgmental feedback. I work deeply with current thoughts, beliefs and feelings about one's self to uncover deep seated self-judgment that blocks happiness. Anxiety, depression and unhappiness transform into greater peace and understanding. In turn, self awareness is enhanced which leads to greater understanding, compassion and empathy for self and others.
(925) 695-7914 View (925) 695-7914
Photo of Lynn Kitajima, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lynn Kitajima
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110  (Online Only)
It may not feel like it right now, but change is possible. Through therapy, you can become aware of the unconscious decisions you are making each day that are unknowingly shaping your life. You may find that the unhelpful decisions all center around patterns meant to keep you safe. Together, we can work on increasing your sense of security and recognizing which patterns are no longer working. I am trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Sensorimotor Therapy. These modalities can aid you in going deeper and effectively processing the patterns and traumas that are keeping you stuck.
It may not feel like it right now, but change is possible. Through therapy, you can become aware of the unconscious decisions you are making each day that are unknowingly shaping your life. You may find that the unhelpful decisions all center around patterns meant to keep you safe. Together, we can work on increasing your sense of security and recognizing which patterns are no longer working. I am trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Sensorimotor Therapy. These modalities can aid you in going deeper and effectively processing the patterns and traumas that are keeping you stuck.
(650) 297-8046 View (650) 297-8046
Photo of Dr. Cate Vogl, PsyD, MFT, Psychologist
Dr. Cate Vogl
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Monica, CA 90402  (Online Only)
I am EFT (Emotionally-Focused Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and RPP (Reflective Parenting Program) trained.
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work collaboratively to decrease your symptoms and reach your goals. Together, we can develop awareness of patterns that might be creating stuck points in your life, as well as process things from your past that may be impacting your present. My style is compassionate, interactive and direct when needed. Ultimately, my goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.
I am EFT (Emotionally-Focused Therapy), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and RPP (Reflective Parenting Program) trained.
I provide a warm and non-judgmental space where we can work collaboratively to decrease your symptoms and reach your goals. Together, we can develop awareness of patterns that might be creating stuck points in your life, as well as process things from your past that may be impacting your present. My style is compassionate, interactive and direct when needed. Ultimately, my goal is to help you lead a more fulfilling and authentic life.
(818) 873-2645 View (818) 873-2645
Photo of Joey Pham, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joey Pham
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Long Beach, CA 90803  (Online Only)
My intervention modalities include: cognitive behavioral, trauma-focused, EMDR, family systems, interpersonal, solution-focused, and attachment-based.
At time, life provides us with the opportunities that enable us to grow and accomplish. However, at times it also presents itself in the form of a challenge. These life events can take a toll on our mental health and leave us feeling hopeless, unmotivated, lost, and stuck. I am passionate and confident in my ability to make a difference in the life of my clients. Having been through many touch patches myself, I understand well the importance of regaining one's own sense of purpose, strength, and dignity. I have experiences working with both children and adults using individual and family therapy modalities.
My intervention modalities include: cognitive behavioral, trauma-focused, EMDR, family systems, interpersonal, solution-focused, and attachment-based.
At time, life provides us with the opportunities that enable us to grow and accomplish. However, at times it also presents itself in the form of a challenge. These life events can take a toll on our mental health and leave us feeling hopeless, unmotivated, lost, and stuck. I am passionate and confident in my ability to make a difference in the life of my clients. Having been through many touch patches myself, I understand well the importance of regaining one's own sense of purpose, strength, and dignity. I have experiences working with both children and adults using individual and family therapy modalities.
(714) 880-8756 View (714) 880-8756
Photo of Jose Luna, ASW, EMDR
Jose Luna
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
I am trained in CBT, EMDR, Gottman method, & Attachment Based Therapy.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
I am trained in CBT, EMDR, Gottman method, & Attachment Based Therapy.
My therapeutic approach mainly focuses on helping my clients identify their strengths to help alleviate anxiety, depression, and trauma. I am a firm believer that our childhood experiences contribute to our beliefs, behavioral patterns, and selecting a romantic partner. Therapy is a process! To allow ourselves to be intimate and vulnerable with someone about our experiences and trauma can be daunting. As a therapist, it is my goal to help validate, create a safe environment and help understand aspects of lived experiences.
(562) 512-5739 View (562) 512-5739
Photo of Katrina Johnson, MA, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Katrina Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
My integrative approach draws from mindful self-compassion, somatic psychotherapy, internal family systems (IFS), EMDR, relational cultural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to meet clients' unique needs and goals.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we are trying to navigate stress, transition, trauma, loss, or conflict. Through compassionate inquiry into our hearts, minds, and souls we can better understand the path forward to the life we want and the person we want to be. I am a warm, collaborative, and person-centered therapist who believes in the innate capacity of humans to heal, grow, and thrive. I will join you and help guide you to connect to your authentic self, inner wisdom, strengths, and compassion. I work with adults, teens, children, couples and families to find balance and a greater sense of well-being.
My integrative approach draws from mindful self-compassion, somatic psychotherapy, internal family systems (IFS), EMDR, relational cultural therapy and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to meet clients' unique needs and goals.
It is easy to feel overwhelmed when we are trying to navigate stress, transition, trauma, loss, or conflict. Through compassionate inquiry into our hearts, minds, and souls we can better understand the path forward to the life we want and the person we want to be. I am a warm, collaborative, and person-centered therapist who believes in the innate capacity of humans to heal, grow, and thrive. I will join you and help guide you to connect to your authentic self, inner wisdom, strengths, and compassion. I work with adults, teens, children, couples and families to find balance and a greater sense of well-being.
(805) 590-9341 View (805) 590-9341
Photo of Heather Lam, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Heather Lam
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Pasadena, CA 91106  (Online Only)
I use many approaches, but EMDR is one of my favorite tools to transform stress and trauma into hope.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Do you have annoying thoughts or behaviors that feel out of control? Current or past events in your life could be affecting your well-being. You could be experiencing a crisis, having difficulty with family, a partner, or friend. If you're feeling sad, anxious, or not like yourself, it's time to reach out. You might need someone that can listen and guide you through your stress. I will teach you tools to sort through your thoughts, feelings, and find a healthy relationship with yourself. I will work with you to heal, cope, and potentially laugh through tough times.
I use many approaches, but EMDR is one of my favorite tools to transform stress and trauma into hope.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Do you have annoying thoughts or behaviors that feel out of control? Current or past events in your life could be affecting your well-being. You could be experiencing a crisis, having difficulty with family, a partner, or friend. If you're feeling sad, anxious, or not like yourself, it's time to reach out. You might need someone that can listen and guide you through your stress. I will teach you tools to sort through your thoughts, feelings, and find a healthy relationship with yourself. I will work with you to heal, cope, and potentially laugh through tough times.
(626) 415-9675 View (626) 415-9675
Photo of Lisa Amitice Saremi, LMFT, CIAYT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Amitice Saremi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CIAYT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Clemente, CA 92672
We all have deep inner wisdom that we can access to improve our lives. As a depth-oriented (LMFT) Marriage and Family Therapist, yoga therapist and EMDR-trained therapist, I consider all aspects of a person’s whole being and life to incorporate somatic-based therapies and interventions. In the therapeutic process, I aim to help clients bring consciousness to the unconscious for their healing journey to wholeness. I love supporting individuals and groups through change, loss, transition, and transformation. Click on this link and we can confirm if I am able to take your insurance.
We all have deep inner wisdom that we can access to improve our lives. As a depth-oriented (LMFT) Marriage and Family Therapist, yoga therapist and EMDR-trained therapist, I consider all aspects of a person’s whole being and life to incorporate somatic-based therapies and interventions. In the therapeutic process, I aim to help clients bring consciousness to the unconscious for their healing journey to wholeness. I love supporting individuals and groups through change, loss, transition, and transformation. Click on this link and we can confirm if I am able to take your insurance.
(760) 299-7928 View (760) 299-7928
Photo of Dr. Jacqueline Hirk, PhD, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Jacqueline Hirk
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
I specialize in Cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment-based, psychodynamic, EMDR, IFS and mindfulness practices.
I have a strong belief that healing starts from within and encompasses the mind, body and soul. I helped many patients overcome depression, anxiety and find a peace of mind amidst a storm of stress and confusion. I provide a judgment free zone, where you can completely be yourself without fear. It is this transparency and our collaborative work together that will help you work through your problems without guilt or shame. My approach to therapy is one of creativity, compassion, accountability and empowerment.
I specialize in Cognitive behavioral therapy, attachment-based, psychodynamic, EMDR, IFS and mindfulness practices.
I have a strong belief that healing starts from within and encompasses the mind, body and soul. I helped many patients overcome depression, anxiety and find a peace of mind amidst a storm of stress and confusion. I provide a judgment free zone, where you can completely be yourself without fear. It is this transparency and our collaborative work together that will help you work through your problems without guilt or shame. My approach to therapy is one of creativity, compassion, accountability and empowerment.
(714) 970-4324 View (714) 970-4324
Photo of Ryan Morris Hampton, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Ryan Morris Hampton
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401  (Online Only)
For clients seeking healing from traumatic experiences, I am also trained to provide EMDR Therapy.
Since 2013, I have supported individuals working through addiction, trauma, homelessness, family conflict, domestic violence, personality disorders, and a wide variety of mental health challenges. I enjoy working with people of every demographic and identity expression, and I am especially passionate about working with teens and young adults, African American and multiracial individuals and families, as well as the neurodivergent community. I assist my clients in creating the life story they want to live, by building self-understanding, practicing self-acceptance, and developing their unique personal strengths.
For clients seeking healing from traumatic experiences, I am also trained to provide EMDR Therapy.
Since 2013, I have supported individuals working through addiction, trauma, homelessness, family conflict, domestic violence, personality disorders, and a wide variety of mental health challenges. I enjoy working with people of every demographic and identity expression, and I am especially passionate about working with teens and young adults, African American and multiracial individuals and families, as well as the neurodivergent community. I assist my clients in creating the life story they want to live, by building self-understanding, practicing self-acceptance, and developing their unique personal strengths.
(805) 941-3537 View (805) 941-3537
Photo of Aaron Galloway, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR-II, Licensed Professional Counselor
Aaron Galloway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959
I specialize in treating people experiencing relational challenges, life transitions, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use issues. The healing journey is not a one-size-fits-all experience, so I draw on my training in EMDR, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, attachment therapy, somatic therapy, wilderness therapy, Polyvagal theory, and addictions counseling to best meet you where you are in your process. Let's work together to co-create an individualized plan for you.
I specialize in treating people experiencing relational challenges, life transitions, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use issues. The healing journey is not a one-size-fits-all experience, so I draw on my training in EMDR, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, attachment therapy, somatic therapy, wilderness therapy, Polyvagal theory, and addictions counseling to best meet you where you are in your process. Let's work together to co-create an individualized plan for you.
(720) 664-5216 View (720) 664-5216
Photo of Ellen B Klyce, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen B Klyce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94123
I use EMDR for trauma.
I mostly treat couples who are navigating parenting and communication. But I work with individual clients too, Bay area residents who have multiple responsibilities and many demands placed on them daily. I help clients ease their doubt in social situations, calm down the inner critic. In my sessions we explore new ways to connect in many different circumstances. If you have fallen into negative thinking patterns, this constant worry may wear you down. I am there to be your collaborator, to find the best solution for you.
I use EMDR for trauma.
I mostly treat couples who are navigating parenting and communication. But I work with individual clients too, Bay area residents who have multiple responsibilities and many demands placed on them daily. I help clients ease their doubt in social situations, calm down the inner critic. In my sessions we explore new ways to connect in many different circumstances. If you have fallen into negative thinking patterns, this constant worry may wear you down. I am there to be your collaborator, to find the best solution for you.
(510) 768-7175 View (510) 768-7175
Photo of Suzie (Sujin) Jeon, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Suzie (Sujin) Jeon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90019
I offer EMDR, mindfulness, relational psychodynamic models of working through trauma and mental health issues.
My name is Suzie and I am a trauma informed licensed clinical social worker. I specialize in trauma work, identity issues, children of immigrant issues, immigrant issues, relationship challenges, inter-generational trauma, anxiety and depression in adults, and couples. I am a first generation Korean-America therapist with a sense of humor, and an appreciation for play and creativity: we’ll work together to build a connection and bring out your intrinsic strengths by practicing self compassion.
I offer EMDR, mindfulness, relational psychodynamic models of working through trauma and mental health issues.
My name is Suzie and I am a trauma informed licensed clinical social worker. I specialize in trauma work, identity issues, children of immigrant issues, immigrant issues, relationship challenges, inter-generational trauma, anxiety and depression in adults, and couples. I am a first generation Korean-America therapist with a sense of humor, and an appreciation for play and creativity: we’ll work together to build a connection and bring out your intrinsic strengths by practicing self compassion.
(213) 583-4158 View (213) 583-4158
Photo of Diana Chaparro-Clark, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Chaparro-Clark
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tustin, CA 92780
I also utilize EMDR when appropriate.
I help people identify strengths and challenges, helping them move toward growth, understanding, and self-discovery. My goal is for clients to realize what they want to achieve by discovering their authentic selves and inner resources. This is achieved with a strength-based approach that is focused on a healthy balance between mind, body & and spirit. I utilize practical skills that clients can implement right away while also exploring past family/ relationship histories to understand the origins of challenges that clients are experiencing.
I also utilize EMDR when appropriate.
I help people identify strengths and challenges, helping them move toward growth, understanding, and self-discovery. My goal is for clients to realize what they want to achieve by discovering their authentic selves and inner resources. This is achieved with a strength-based approach that is focused on a healthy balance between mind, body & and spirit. I utilize practical skills that clients can implement right away while also exploring past family/ relationship histories to understand the origins of challenges that clients are experiencing.
(657) 242-2146 View (657) 242-2146
Photo of Alison G Freeman, PhD, Psychologist
Alison G Freeman
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Los Angeles, CA 90024  (Online Only)
I see myself as a guide in your journey to self knowledge. My job is not to fix you but to help you find the resources within yourself and out there to help you maximize your potential. I tend to be very interactive, and goal directed; we work together to see if you are meeting your goals, and if not, why not. My orientation is a "YOU" centered one, where I may use any number of techniques including EMDR for trauma, Transactional Analysis for understanding your communication style, assertiveness training, and movement therapy to further the mind body connection.
I see myself as a guide in your journey to self knowledge. My job is not to fix you but to help you find the resources within yourself and out there to help you maximize your potential. I tend to be very interactive, and goal directed; we work together to see if you are meeting your goals, and if not, why not. My orientation is a "YOU" centered one, where I may use any number of techniques including EMDR for trauma, Transactional Analysis for understanding your communication style, assertiveness training, and movement therapy to further the mind body connection.
(310) 956-4068 View (310) 956-4068
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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.