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 Kristin M Roberts, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristin M Roberts
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Folsom, CA 95630
I offer EMDR and Brainspotting, a body-sourced trauma treatment.
I am here to help you with the hard things in your life and find your healing in your marriage, self-worth, your family of origin dynamics, to increase your insight, recognize any distorted thinking, acquire skills to calm the body when anxious, understand your depression, and assist in learning how to feel safe.
I offer EMDR and Brainspotting, a body-sourced trauma treatment.
I am here to help you with the hard things in your life and find your healing in your marriage, self-worth, your family of origin dynamics, to increase your insight, recognize any distorted thinking, acquire skills to calm the body when anxious, understand your depression, and assist in learning how to feel safe.
(279) 205-4937 View (279) 205-4937
Photo of Kate S. Mink, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate S. Mink
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90025
We might work well together if you: are a young professional; a perfectionist; struggle with burnout and prioritizing yourself; have experienced trauma. If you're walking through a faith transition or struggling to reconcile your faith with your LGBTQ+ identity, I'm here to help you navigate that. I also know the importance of going back to the body and emotions. Staying in your intellect probably hasn't healed your trauma (although it's certainly kept you safe), so why not change the channel? As a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant in Training, I'm very comfortable helping you figure out which channel has the best service.
We might work well together if you: are a young professional; a perfectionist; struggle with burnout and prioritizing yourself; have experienced trauma. If you're walking through a faith transition or struggling to reconcile your faith with your LGBTQ+ identity, I'm here to help you navigate that. I also know the importance of going back to the body and emotions. Staying in your intellect probably hasn't healed your trauma (although it's certainly kept you safe), so why not change the channel? As a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant in Training, I'm very comfortable helping you figure out which channel has the best service.
(310) 945-2237 View (310) 945-2237
Photo of Alice Barclay, LPC, LPCC, LCPC, Counselor
Alice Barclay
Counselor, LPC, LPCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90013  (Online Only)
I have extensive training in experiential psychotherapy modalities and I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
There is so much joy, love, and abundance waiting for you. Are you ready to receive it? I work with teens and adults who are yearning for big changes in their life but need some extra support in getting there. I specialize in clearing the road blocks to your highest potential including past traumas, self-limiting beliefs, constricting emotions, and behaviors that are out of alignment with your soul's purpose. I work best with clients who are willing to dive deep to find the treasures within.
I have extensive training in experiential psychotherapy modalities and I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
There is so much joy, love, and abundance waiting for you. Are you ready to receive it? I work with teens and adults who are yearning for big changes in their life but need some extra support in getting there. I specialize in clearing the road blocks to your highest potential including past traumas, self-limiting beliefs, constricting emotions, and behaviors that are out of alignment with your soul's purpose. I work best with clients who are willing to dive deep to find the treasures within.
(719) 751-5535 View (719) 751-5535
Photo of Patricia O'Laughlin, MA, MFT, ATR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Patricia O'Laughlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT, ATR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90026
In my nonjudgmental approach I combine "talk" therapy with art therapy, mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
In my 15 years of practicing I have evolved 2 specialties: 1. I focus on interpersonal connections - your relationship to your sibling, parents, child, spouse, partner, co-worker, and/or self that may be causing anxiety and depression; 2. I help adults and children who have educational, relational, and work challenges due to neurological differences (such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, impulse & emotional regulation challenges); as well as parents of children who are neurologically atypical. Having these differences and parenting a child with these differences causes isolation, frustration, and feelings of being stuck.
In my nonjudgmental approach I combine "talk" therapy with art therapy, mindfulness, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
In my 15 years of practicing I have evolved 2 specialties: 1. I focus on interpersonal connections - your relationship to your sibling, parents, child, spouse, partner, co-worker, and/or self that may be causing anxiety and depression; 2. I help adults and children who have educational, relational, and work challenges due to neurological differences (such as dyslexia, dysgraphia, dyscalculia, ADHD, impulse & emotional regulation challenges); as well as parents of children who are neurologically atypical. Having these differences and parenting a child with these differences causes isolation, frustration, and feelings of being stuck.
(323) 419-4744 View (323) 419-4744
Photo of Paula-Jo Husack, MA, LMFT, CGP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Paula-Jo Husack
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CGP
Verified Verified
Burlingame, CA 94010
Member: (1) Womens' Assoc for Addiction Treatment (2) Anxiety & Depression Assoc America (3) CHADD(/ADHD 4) EMDR certified therapist, (5) Int'l Coach Federation (past); (6) CA Assoc Marriage/Family Therapist (6).
"Ease" is not a keyword for our "Bay Area"! My practice is a resource library for real lives. Whether you're highly visible, invisible, or both--you want some life change. You want a hands-on, motivated professional. Stress shouts out. Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Confusion, Conflict, Addictions/Compulsions come forth. You want strategies for sustained change. Or, you want short-term problem-solving for yourself, marriage, family, workteam. My approaches are eclectic, as we define your needs, goals, and choices. You're motivated to start; and I'm honored to be on your whole-person team!
Member: (1) Womens' Assoc for Addiction Treatment (2) Anxiety & Depression Assoc America (3) CHADD(/ADHD 4) EMDR certified therapist, (5) Int'l Coach Federation (past); (6) CA Assoc Marriage/Family Therapist (6).
"Ease" is not a keyword for our "Bay Area"! My practice is a resource library for real lives. Whether you're highly visible, invisible, or both--you want some life change. You want a hands-on, motivated professional. Stress shouts out. Anxiety, Depression, Panic, Confusion, Conflict, Addictions/Compulsions come forth. You want strategies for sustained change. Or, you want short-term problem-solving for yourself, marriage, family, workteam. My approaches are eclectic, as we define your needs, goals, and choices. You're motivated to start; and I'm honored to be on your whole-person team!
(650) 316-5541 View (650) 316-5541
Photo of Brad Benedict, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brad Benedict
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Los Angeles, CA 90046
My expertise in EMDR & complex trauma is specifically designed to teach you how to self-ground to actively minimize the effects of stress and anxiety experienced during crisis.
These are extremely challenging times that are testing your ability to be there for your partner, yourself & your family. You're trying to make sense of where you are in this world while doing your best to show up for your relationships & obligations. I understand where you're at & will help to slow things down so you can get a better sense of what you need & where you want to go. Sometimes you need help to see the forest from the trees & I will you get there. Call me for a free consultation, I got you.
My expertise in EMDR & complex trauma is specifically designed to teach you how to self-ground to actively minimize the effects of stress and anxiety experienced during crisis.
These are extremely challenging times that are testing your ability to be there for your partner, yourself & your family. You're trying to make sense of where you are in this world while doing your best to show up for your relationships & obligations. I understand where you're at & will help to slow things down so you can get a better sense of what you need & where you want to go. Sometimes you need help to see the forest from the trees & I will you get there. Call me for a free consultation, I got you.
(747) 234-4031 View (747) 234-4031
Photo of Justine Gordon, AMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Justine Gordon
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Long Beach, CA 90814
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.
(562) 294-4242 View (562) 294-4242
Photo of Anna Elizabeth Morley, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Anna Elizabeth Morley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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 Zainab Waheed, EMDR, IFS, Pre-Licensed Professional
Zainab Waheed
Pre-Licensed Professional, EMDR, IFS
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609
I utilize various evidence-based practices including DBT, CBT, solution-focused, polyvagel theory, EMDR, and IFS to help clients gain awareness of what is happening in their inner world and learn ways to let go of the past.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, angry, and overwhelmed? Do you continue to repeat the same patterns of being in unhealthy relationships, engaging in harmful behaviors that are not serving you in a good way, and continuously trying to find a way to numb the pain? I am a process-oriented and trauma-informed therapist who meets clients where they are at. I draw from the psychodynamic approach focusing on bringing the unconscious to the conscious to get to the root of the issue and explore defense mechanisms that have been adapted along the way.
I utilize various evidence-based practices including DBT, CBT, solution-focused, polyvagel theory, EMDR, and IFS to help clients gain awareness of what is happening in their inner world and learn ways to let go of the past.
Do you find yourself feeling anxious, depressed, angry, and overwhelmed? Do you continue to repeat the same patterns of being in unhealthy relationships, engaging in harmful behaviors that are not serving you in a good way, and continuously trying to find a way to numb the pain? I am a process-oriented and trauma-informed therapist who meets clients where they are at. I draw from the psychodynamic approach focusing on bringing the unconscious to the conscious to get to the root of the issue and explore defense mechanisms that have been adapted along the way.
(415) 417-2038 View (415) 417-2038
Photo of Susan Wright, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Susan Wright
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Hesperia, CA 92345
I am a Trained EMDR Therapist and provide EMDR to Clients who have suffered trauma.
"Therapy should be Relationship-driven, not Theory-driven".. . .Irvin Yalom. A truer statement was never spoken. Therapy is all about the relationship first because without the therapeutic relationship there can be no effective or meaningful therapy. A strong bond is crucial to the success of counseling and psychotherapy.
I am a Trained EMDR Therapist and provide EMDR to Clients who have suffered trauma.
"Therapy should be Relationship-driven, not Theory-driven".. . .Irvin Yalom. A truer statement was never spoken. Therapy is all about the relationship first because without the therapeutic relationship there can be no effective or meaningful therapy. A strong bond is crucial to the success of counseling and psychotherapy.
(760) 220-4041 View (760) 220-4041
Photo of Brent David Chumpitazi, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brent David Chumpitazi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
People find me when they are ready to care deeply about their emotional well-being and embark on a transformative journey through EMDR therapy and Somatic Breathwork. My practice is dedicated to those who seek to reset their nervous system, align their lives with their core values, and break free from the relentless chase. My approach with EMDR and Somatic Breathwork not only addresses trauma, anxiety, and depression but also nurtures a grounded and authentic sense of self. Here, we honor your journey, help you reclaim your inner strength, and support you in creating a life that truly reflects who you are.
People find me when they are ready to care deeply about their emotional well-being and embark on a transformative journey through EMDR therapy and Somatic Breathwork. My practice is dedicated to those who seek to reset their nervous system, align their lives with their core values, and break free from the relentless chase. My approach with EMDR and Somatic Breathwork not only addresses trauma, anxiety, and depression but also nurtures a grounded and authentic sense of self. Here, we honor your journey, help you reclaim your inner strength, and support you in creating a life that truly reflects who you are.
(657) 888-0905 View (657) 888-0905
Photo of Rachel Cover-Briggs, PhD, Psychologist
Rachel Cover-Briggs
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Sacramento, CA 95816
From a culturally-informed, relational framework, I provide such therapies as CBT, CBT-Insomnia, CPT for PTSD, EMDR, and DBT.
Are you an "overthinker" or overachiever wanting to work through harsh attitudes you hold about yourself? Are you hoping to resolve pain from the past? Perhaps you need relief from intense worry, anxiety, PTSD/complex trauma, overwhelming emotions, depression, insomnia, or nightmares. Or you might be seeking to grow as a person and needing to talk through the complexities of your most important relationships with someone trained to ask just the right questions. If these are the kinds of issues you’re grappling with now, therapy is a wonderful place to start, and one of the most meaningful investments you can make in yourself.
From a culturally-informed, relational framework, I provide such therapies as CBT, CBT-Insomnia, CPT for PTSD, EMDR, and DBT.
Are you an "overthinker" or overachiever wanting to work through harsh attitudes you hold about yourself? Are you hoping to resolve pain from the past? Perhaps you need relief from intense worry, anxiety, PTSD/complex trauma, overwhelming emotions, depression, insomnia, or nightmares. Or you might be seeking to grow as a person and needing to talk through the complexities of your most important relationships with someone trained to ask just the right questions. If these are the kinds of issues you’re grappling with now, therapy is a wonderful place to start, and one of the most meaningful investments you can make in yourself.
(530) 500-0308 View (530) 500-0308
Photo of Leslie Stone, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leslie Stone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95661
Additionally, EMDR can reprocess developmental or specific traumas that have happened.
Sometimes we want change because we are suffering, or stuck, or we’d like to be happier. Maybe we’d just like to be a better partner or a better parent. Regardless of the motivation, the work is to become the best version of ourself, i.e. a fully functioning adult. Old habits, reactions,emotions, and limiting beliefs keep us repeating old patterns. Recognizing and healing the wounds that underly the patterns frees us to know what is best for ourself. And when we know that we can move forward and we are able to be generous in relationships with those we love.
Additionally, EMDR can reprocess developmental or specific traumas that have happened.
Sometimes we want change because we are suffering, or stuck, or we’d like to be happier. Maybe we’d just like to be a better partner or a better parent. Regardless of the motivation, the work is to become the best version of ourself, i.e. a fully functioning adult. Old habits, reactions,emotions, and limiting beliefs keep us repeating old patterns. Recognizing and healing the wounds that underly the patterns frees us to know what is best for ourself. And when we know that we can move forward and we are able to be generous in relationships with those we love.
(916) 318-3955 View (916) 318-3955
Photo of James Y Lee, PsyD, Psychologist
James Y Lee
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
In addition, clients can see me for short-term EMDR therapy (e.
My clients are a wide-range of individuals, running the gamut from creative filmmakers to successful software engineers. They usually struggle with work stress, negative self-talk, interpersonal issues and/or trauma. My clients leave sessions feeling a greater sense of freedom with more possible choices in front of them. They come away with insight, achieving a better understanding of who they are and a clearer direction in where they wish to lead their lives.
In addition, clients can see me for short-term EMDR therapy (e.
My clients are a wide-range of individuals, running the gamut from creative filmmakers to successful software engineers. They usually struggle with work stress, negative self-talk, interpersonal issues and/or trauma. My clients leave sessions feeling a greater sense of freedom with more possible choices in front of them. They come away with insight, achieving a better understanding of who they are and a clearer direction in where they wish to lead their lives.
(628) 215-4774 View (628) 215-4774
Photo of Dr. Alan Acre, PsyD, Psychologist
Dr. Alan Acre
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Diego, CA 92123
I am well trained in trauma therapies highly recommended for treating PTSD, including CPT, PE, EMDR, etc.
Hello. I am Dr. Alan Acre, clinical psychologist. I was the clinical director of a trauma clinic in San Diego for over four years. If you’re looking for a quality private counseling session with a provider that cares, then you’ve come to the right place. I like helping clients conquer difficulties by using evidenced based treatments that allow you to engage life with a peaceful mind, a healthy outlook, and joy. We'll learn how to stop white knuckling life's problems and proudly use effective techniques to engage our family, friends, and co-workers with. Call me for a free consult, or I can help match you with one of our therapists.
I am well trained in trauma therapies highly recommended for treating PTSD, including CPT, PE, EMDR, etc.
Hello. I am Dr. Alan Acre, clinical psychologist. I was the clinical director of a trauma clinic in San Diego for over four years. If you’re looking for a quality private counseling session with a provider that cares, then you’ve come to the right place. I like helping clients conquer difficulties by using evidenced based treatments that allow you to engage life with a peaceful mind, a healthy outlook, and joy. We'll learn how to stop white knuckling life's problems and proudly use effective techniques to engage our family, friends, and co-workers with. Call me for a free consult, or I can help match you with one of our therapists.
(619) 566-7336 View (619) 566-7336
Photo of Tyrene (Ty) Siadous, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tyrene (Ty) Siadous
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redding, CA 96001
Waitlist for new clients
Depending on the client’s needs, I use a wide range of approaches such as mindfulness, somatic processing techniques, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing), EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), Part-work (Dissociative Parts) and Energy Psychology.
I love to work with client's who are open to experiential ways of discovering their authentic self. I believe we all have the ability to intuitively tap into our own internal knowing that will guide us with clarity. I work with clients on connecting to their highest sense of self and releasing the dependence on seeking their worth outside of themselves. We are more than what we think!
Depending on the client’s needs, I use a wide range of approaches such as mindfulness, somatic processing techniques, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitizing and Reprocessing), EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique), Part-work (Dissociative Parts) and Energy Psychology.
I love to work with client's who are open to experiential ways of discovering their authentic self. I believe we all have the ability to intuitively tap into our own internal knowing that will guide us with clarity. I work with clients on connecting to their highest sense of self and releasing the dependence on seeking their worth outside of themselves. We are more than what we think!
(530) 232-4267 View (530) 232-4267
Photo of Laurel O'Connor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Laurel O'Connor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Barbara, CA 93101
I use a variety of modalities to best serve each individual including psychodynamic and attachment theories, CBT, somatic based therapies and EMDR.
There are times in our lives when we are presented with challenging circumstances. These experiences can be enormously difficult yet they also provide an opportunity for tremendous growth. The guidance and support of a trusted professional can be vital in regaining a sense of balance and ability to move forward in a positive way. What I have come to understand from my own life and education is that our suffering is often caused by losing connection to ourselves and others. With care and curiosity we can rebuild this sense of connection and foster the change necessary to create a healthy and meaningful life.
I use a variety of modalities to best serve each individual including psychodynamic and attachment theories, CBT, somatic based therapies and EMDR.
There are times in our lives when we are presented with challenging circumstances. These experiences can be enormously difficult yet they also provide an opportunity for tremendous growth. The guidance and support of a trusted professional can be vital in regaining a sense of balance and ability to move forward in a positive way. What I have come to understand from my own life and education is that our suffering is often caused by losing connection to ourselves and others. With care and curiosity we can rebuild this sense of connection and foster the change necessary to create a healthy and meaningful life.
(805) 706-8878 View (805) 706-8878
Photo of Allison Barton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Allison Barton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Marcos, CA 92069  (Online Only)
I am certified in EMDR.
I work with adults and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and relationship issues. I work from a strengths-based approach and believe that each individual can recover and heal. I know it can be uncomfortable to be vulnerable with someone, so it is extremely important to me to create a non-judgmental, nurturing space where you can begin to heal. It takes so much courage to take this step and I am here to support you throughout your journey!
I am certified in EMDR.
I work with adults and teens who struggle with anxiety, depression, trauma, PTSD, and relationship issues. I work from a strengths-based approach and believe that each individual can recover and heal. I know it can be uncomfortable to be vulnerable with someone, so it is extremely important to me to create a non-judgmental, nurturing space where you can begin to heal. It takes so much courage to take this step and I am here to support you throughout your journey!
(442) 777-6536 View (442) 777-6536
Photo of Janice Taylor, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Janice Taylor
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Monica, CA 90401  (Online Only)
I am a Certified in Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), and am trained in the Trauma Resiliency Model and Brainspotting.
I offer a pragmatic approach designed to help clients identify and change behaviors that are preventing them from living the life they want. We all developed coping strategies when we were young to protect ourselves. While they helped us survive at the time, they are often the very things holding us back now.
I am a Certified in Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR), and am trained in the Trauma Resiliency Model and Brainspotting.
I offer a pragmatic approach designed to help clients identify and change behaviors that are preventing them from living the life they want. We all developed coping strategies when we were young to protect ourselves. While they helped us survive at the time, they are often the very things holding us back now.
(213) 986-2812 View (213) 986-2812
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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.