Photo of Angela Jackson, MA, NCC, LPC, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Jackson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, NCC, LPC, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support and guidance as they navigate challenges related to stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, or depression. This client is often looking for a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express their thoughts and feelings openly. Their goals often include enhancing their emotional resilience, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and finding ways to reduce their anxiety or depressive symptoms. Ultimately, they seek to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. My ideal client is motivated to engage in the therapeutic process, willing to challenge themselves, and eager to grow.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support and guidance as they navigate challenges related to stress, anxiety, trauma, grief, or depression. This client is often looking for a safe, non-judgmental space where they can express their thoughts and feelings openly. Their goals often include enhancing their emotional resilience, developing healthier coping mechanisms, and finding ways to reduce their anxiety or depressive symptoms. Ultimately, they seek to improve their overall well-being and quality of life. My ideal client is motivated to engage in the therapeutic process, willing to challenge themselves, and eager to grow.
(757) 979-2607 View (757) 979-2607
Photo of LaVon Petersen - Trauma Recovery Psychotherapy Services , MSW, LCSW, MPH, CCTSI, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Trauma Recovery Psychotherapy Services
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, MPH, CCTSI
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ewa Beach, HI 96706
Waitlist for new clients
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
Do you struggle with feeling disconnected from yourself and others? Do you put your needs at the bottom of the to-do list? Do you wonder if life should feel somehow better? Happier? Now more than ever, people are feeling anxious, overwhelmed and uncertain about how they are supposed to manage their relationships, careers and their lives. Pushing away your needs and not taking time for yourself can lead to long-term issues for your mind and body. I believe it shouldn’t be so hard to live a better life.
(808) 320-1493 View (808) 320-1493

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tyson Ortiz, LMHC, Counselor
Tyson Ortiz
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Mililani, HI 96789  (Online Only)
My name is Tyson Ortiz, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who was born and raised on the Big Island. I have spent the last eight years working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence and those struggling with addiction. I am in my 20th year of social work and find that the best approach is whatever works best for my client. That can be different for each person. Some benefit from EMDR to eliminate negative cognitions, while others benefit most from having a sounding board to talk through situations. You are the expert on your life, don’t settle until you find the right fit.
My name is Tyson Ortiz, and I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor who was born and raised on the Big Island. I have spent the last eight years working with victims of sexual abuse, domestic violence and those struggling with addiction. I am in my 20th year of social work and find that the best approach is whatever works best for my client. That can be different for each person. Some benefit from EMDR to eliminate negative cognitions, while others benefit most from having a sounding board to talk through situations. You are the expert on your life, don’t settle until you find the right fit.
(323) 643-8569 View (323) 643-8569
Photo of Timothy Liu, LMHC, Counselor
Timothy Liu
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
I offer complementary treatment modalities, including mindfulness practices, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and hypnotherapy.
I am a licensed mental health counselor and graduate of Columbia University, and have been providing mental health services since 2006. My practice incorporates the client’s input and feedback, which in my experience is essential to achieving insight. I believe that the best therapy does not end with achieving insight, but should extend to helping my clients develop a practical plan for turning insight into action. My job isn’t complete until I have helped my clients foster the resilience and self-reliance necessary for managing daily challenges on their own.
I offer complementary treatment modalities, including mindfulness practices, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and hypnotherapy.
I am a licensed mental health counselor and graduate of Columbia University, and have been providing mental health services since 2006. My practice incorporates the client’s input and feedback, which in my experience is essential to achieving insight. I believe that the best therapy does not end with achieving insight, but should extend to helping my clients develop a practical plan for turning insight into action. My job isn’t complete until I have helped my clients foster the resilience and self-reliance necessary for managing daily challenges on their own.
(808) 207-7253 View (808) 207-7253
Photo of Heather H. McDermott - Adult and Child Psychological Services, PsyD, CSAC, Psychologist
Adult and Child Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD, CSAC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813
Many of our providers hold specialized certifications in various areas of therapy which includes EMDR, Anger Management, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Kazdin Parent Management Training.
Adult and Child Psychological Services is a comprehensive center devoted to enhancing the health and well-being of adults, children, and families in the community who are living with emotional and physical health problems. Our philosophy is a belief in wellness through a collaborative effort. Using effective and proven therapies, the goal of our dedicated and expertly trained mental health professionals is to provide brief and practical help.
Many of our providers hold specialized certifications in various areas of therapy which includes EMDR, Anger Management, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Kazdin Parent Management Training.
Adult and Child Psychological Services is a comprehensive center devoted to enhancing the health and well-being of adults, children, and families in the community who are living with emotional and physical health problems. Our philosophy is a belief in wellness through a collaborative effort. Using effective and proven therapies, the goal of our dedicated and expertly trained mental health professionals is to provide brief and practical help.
(808) 731-1087 View (808) 731-1087
Photo of Jeanie Li, PhD, Psychologist
Jeanie Li
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
I was broadly trained in a variety of treatment modalities, such as Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and EMDR.
Aloha, Are you or your loved ones struggling with anxiety, depression, or chronic pain? Do you find yourself compulsively eating, drinking, working, or seeking relationships in order to fill the inner void? Do you and your partner sometimes get caught in a negative interaction pattern that prevents you from experiencing love and intimacy? I have years of education, training, and clinical experiences to help you process painful emotions, learn new skills, and find new ways of connecting with self, others, and the world. I am licensed in Hawaii and California to see clients from both states.
I was broadly trained in a variety of treatment modalities, such as Emotionally Focused Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance Commitment Therapy, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, and EMDR.
Aloha, Are you or your loved ones struggling with anxiety, depression, or chronic pain? Do you find yourself compulsively eating, drinking, working, or seeking relationships in order to fill the inner void? Do you and your partner sometimes get caught in a negative interaction pattern that prevents you from experiencing love and intimacy? I have years of education, training, and clinical experiences to help you process painful emotions, learn new skills, and find new ways of connecting with self, others, and the world. I am licensed in Hawaii and California to see clients from both states.
(808) 419-7832 View (808) 419-7832
Photo of Heather McDermott, PsyD, MEd, CAMS-II, CSAC, Psychologist
Heather McDermott
Psychologist, PsyD, MEd, CAMS-II, CSAC
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
Individuals can lead a happier, more productive life when they are engaged in the therapy process. I specialize in assisting individuals who are experiencing life transitions including divorce, illness, bereavement, and change of careers. I also treat depression, anxiety, addictions (including substance abuse), trauma, and a variety of other psychological concerns. I routinely work with individuals' physicians and a variety of other practitioners to create a comprehensive treatment plan. I am an anger management specialist, certified by the National Association for Anger Management Specialists as well as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC). I am also a certified EMDR therapist.
Individuals can lead a happier, more productive life when they are engaged in the therapy process. I specialize in assisting individuals who are experiencing life transitions including divorce, illness, bereavement, and change of careers. I also treat depression, anxiety, addictions (including substance abuse), trauma, and a variety of other psychological concerns. I routinely work with individuals' physicians and a variety of other practitioners to create a comprehensive treatment plan. I am an anger management specialist, certified by the National Association for Anger Management Specialists as well as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC). I am also a certified EMDR therapist.
(808) 419-7820 View (808) 419-7820
Photo of Madelyn Butac-Roeske, PsyD, Psychologist
Madelyn Butac-Roeske
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waipahu, HI 96797
Waitlist for new clients
As our lives constantly change, our perspectives about others, life circumstances, as well as ourselves are also changing. On some days, we might feel “on top of the world,” while on others, we might feel anxious, defeated, and/or unloved. When we hear, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” and think that it’s just too hard to do right now, know that being open to a new perspective and change, even at this very moment, is already enough.
As our lives constantly change, our perspectives about others, life circumstances, as well as ourselves are also changing. On some days, we might feel “on top of the world,” while on others, we might feel anxious, defeated, and/or unloved. When we hear, “when life gives you lemons, make lemonade,” and think that it’s just too hard to do right now, know that being open to a new perspective and change, even at this very moment, is already enough.
(808) 793-4769 View (808) 793-4769
Photo of Taresa Spade, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Taresa Spade
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mililani, HI 96789
Aloha! My name is Taresa Spade, LCSW. I'm a private practice therapist licensed in the states of Hawaii, California, Washington, Montana, and Minnesota. I bring a down-to-earth and practical approach to therapy, one that embraces real-world solutions while attending to deeper healing, exploration, and empowerment. My goal is to create an environment where you feel comfortable and understood, where our conversations are relatable and engaging. I prefer to build goals from conversations that explore your needs, difficulties, visions, and how the world around you provide support (or not).
Aloha! My name is Taresa Spade, LCSW. I'm a private practice therapist licensed in the states of Hawaii, California, Washington, Montana, and Minnesota. I bring a down-to-earth and practical approach to therapy, one that embraces real-world solutions while attending to deeper healing, exploration, and empowerment. My goal is to create an environment where you feel comfortable and understood, where our conversations are relatable and engaging. I prefer to build goals from conversations that explore your needs, difficulties, visions, and how the world around you provide support (or not).
(808) 201-1325 View (808) 201-1325
Photo of Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kayla Ennett
Licensed Professional Counselor, PsyD, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96707  (Online Only)
Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, is a licensed therapist living in Colorado who is very motivated and excited to work with the residents of Hawaii via TeleHealth therapy. Kayla has an eclectic experience with counseling. She started off as a college career counselor and then moved on to school counseling. Later in her career, she began doing therapy with inmates at a state prison then veterans and their families on post. She currently focuses on working with clients and couples who suffer from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, LGBTQ+, and concerns related to intimacy and sex.
Kayla Ennett, PsyD, LMHC, is a licensed therapist living in Colorado who is very motivated and excited to work with the residents of Hawaii via TeleHealth therapy. Kayla has an eclectic experience with counseling. She started off as a college career counselor and then moved on to school counseling. Later in her career, she began doing therapy with inmates at a state prison then veterans and their families on post. She currently focuses on working with clients and couples who suffer from depression, anxiety, personality disorders, LGBTQ+, and concerns related to intimacy and sex.
(808) 720-2145 View (808) 720-2145
Photo of Jane Fisher, PhD, Psychologist
Jane Fisher
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
I am taking new clients. As a solution-focused therapist, I will guide you to achieve your goals by helping you uncover your inner strengths and resources so that you can reach your true potential. By applying effective therapy techniques, you will uncover the unconscious issues, emotions, and limiting beliefs that are blocking you from resolving your problems and enjoying a more fulfilling and meaningful life. My approach involves resolving past hurts through inner child healing, which frees you to transform into your ideal self.
I am taking new clients. As a solution-focused therapist, I will guide you to achieve your goals by helping you uncover your inner strengths and resources so that you can reach your true potential. By applying effective therapy techniques, you will uncover the unconscious issues, emotions, and limiting beliefs that are blocking you from resolving your problems and enjoying a more fulfilling and meaningful life. My approach involves resolving past hurts through inner child healing, which frees you to transform into your ideal self.
(808) 518-4139 View (808) 518-4139
Photo of Kristina Poulos, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kristina Poulos
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mililani, HI 96789
Not accepting new clients
I integrate EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy with a focus on navigating the impacts of trauma, life transitions and healing root causes of depression and anxiety.
I have always been humbled by this profession and the incredible gift of being a guest in someone's journey of self-discovery. Life is filled with many obstacles that often come in some form of pain; emotional, physical, existential, etc. and if we are willing to listen and be in its presence, we will hear it speak gently but clearly of the pieces of ourselves to keep, the pieces to improve and the pieces to let go of. As Ryan Holiday so greatly states "The Obstacle is the Way." If you are looking for someone to walk alongside you as you find your way, I would be honored to meet you.
I integrate EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Psychodynamic Therapy and Solution Focused Therapy with a focus on navigating the impacts of trauma, life transitions and healing root causes of depression and anxiety.
I have always been humbled by this profession and the incredible gift of being a guest in someone's journey of self-discovery. Life is filled with many obstacles that often come in some form of pain; emotional, physical, existential, etc. and if we are willing to listen and be in its presence, we will hear it speak gently but clearly of the pieces of ourselves to keep, the pieces to improve and the pieces to let go of. As Ryan Holiday so greatly states "The Obstacle is the Way." If you are looking for someone to walk alongside you as you find your way, I would be honored to meet you.
(808) 818-8312 View (808) 818-8312

Online Therapists

Photo of Sonja Bigalke-Bannan, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sonja Bigalke-Bannan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Waialua, HI 96791
Feeling stuck in your journey? Considering therapy for the first time, but not comfortable in an indoor setting? Using Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and EMDR together, using the EquiLateral Approach, horses and non-traditional setting can allow for a shift in perspective or the creation of a safe place.
I am here to support your healing and growth, with an emphases in complex trauma work. My approach is trauma focused, using EMDR and Structural Dissociation Theory, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Harm Reduction and Motivational Interviewing. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a Master's of Social Work, from the University of Hawai'i, specializing in Mental Health.
Feeling stuck in your journey? Considering therapy for the first time, but not comfortable in an indoor setting? Using Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and EMDR together, using the EquiLateral Approach, horses and non-traditional setting can allow for a shift in perspective or the creation of a safe place.
I am here to support your healing and growth, with an emphases in complex trauma work. My approach is trauma focused, using EMDR and Structural Dissociation Theory, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Harm Reduction and Motivational Interviewing. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, with a Master's of Social Work, from the University of Hawai'i, specializing in Mental Health.
(808) 400-4218 View (808) 400-4218
Photo of Sid Hermosura, PsyD, Psychologist
Sid Hermosura
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96821  (Online Only)
Therapy approaches may include ACT, CBT, mindfulness, positive psychology, body-centered, EMDR, exposure-based and the Gottman Method.
When meeting for the first time, you'll be greeted with a smile and a curiosity to understand you as a whole person. We'll talk about your experiences, strengths, thoughts, behaviors, habits, and relationships that shape you. We'll then discuss your goals for therapy and collaborate on a treatment plan to meet your needs. There is no one size fits all for therapy. It’s part science and part art. The science of therapy is using research supported interventions that have been proven to work. While the art of therapy is tailoring these interventions to you and your unique needs and strengths.
Therapy approaches may include ACT, CBT, mindfulness, positive psychology, body-centered, EMDR, exposure-based and the Gottman Method.
When meeting for the first time, you'll be greeted with a smile and a curiosity to understand you as a whole person. We'll talk about your experiences, strengths, thoughts, behaviors, habits, and relationships that shape you. We'll then discuss your goals for therapy and collaborate on a treatment plan to meet your needs. There is no one size fits all for therapy. It’s part science and part art. The science of therapy is using research supported interventions that have been proven to work. While the art of therapy is tailoring these interventions to you and your unique needs and strengths.
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Photo of Jessica C Harper, PhD, Psychologist
Jessica C Harper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
While seeking a professional to help with ongoing personal difficulties can be hard, I am dedicated to providing professional guidance towards positive change. I have much experience working with anxiety, panic, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, phobias, and depression. I use therapy that is designed to work quickly and effectively. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Prolonged Exposure, Exposure with Response Prevention, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These techniques can help you to heal from events that may have negatively influenced how you approach life.
While seeking a professional to help with ongoing personal difficulties can be hard, I am dedicated to providing professional guidance towards positive change. I have much experience working with anxiety, panic, trauma, obsessive compulsive disorder, phobias, and depression. I use therapy that is designed to work quickly and effectively. I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Prolonged Exposure, Exposure with Response Prevention, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. These techniques can help you to heal from events that may have negatively influenced how you approach life.
(808) 518-4052 View (808) 518-4052
Photo of Nadine I. Chiang, LMHC, NCC, MBA, RYT, Counselor
Nadine I. Chiang
Counselor, LMHC, NCC, MBA, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Honolulu, HI 96816  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
First in Hawaii to be a Certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapist (Somatic), TIST Certified, EMDR trained and Advanced Emotion Focused Therapy-all proven paths for complex challenges/trauma.
Therapy can be complex, courageous and a difficult decision, but sometimes we just know when it's time to try something different. While challenging periods in life and relationships can overwhelm, they can also facilitate desired change and deeper connection with self and others. Different kinds of traumatic experiences can cause a disconnect between what our head knows and what our body is telling us We will learn together how to reconnect your mind and body so we can access the inner wisdom and strengths that you already possess. We will grow into integrating these capacities in ways that work for you in your current life.
First in Hawaii to be a Certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapist (Somatic), TIST Certified, EMDR trained and Advanced Emotion Focused Therapy-all proven paths for complex challenges/trauma.
Therapy can be complex, courageous and a difficult decision, but sometimes we just know when it's time to try something different. While challenging periods in life and relationships can overwhelm, they can also facilitate desired change and deeper connection with self and others. Different kinds of traumatic experiences can cause a disconnect between what our head knows and what our body is telling us We will learn together how to reconnect your mind and body so we can access the inner wisdom and strengths that you already possess. We will grow into integrating these capacities in ways that work for you in your current life.
(808) 518-6157 View (808) 518-6157
Photo of Camille Bourcier, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Camille Bourcier
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734
Camille is a licensed social worker, psychotherapist and behavioral specialist who received her Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Mental and Behavioral Health from the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa. With over ten years experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families in outdoor, educational and therapeutic settings she brings a dynamic style, utilizing a strength-based approach. Camille has experience working with military families and local behavioral health organizations.
Camille is a licensed social worker, psychotherapist and behavioral specialist who received her Master’s Degree in Social Work with an emphasis in Mental and Behavioral Health from the University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa. With over ten years experience working with adolescents, young adults, and families in outdoor, educational and therapeutic settings she brings a dynamic style, utilizing a strength-based approach. Camille has experience working with military families and local behavioral health organizations.
(808) 650-5936 View (808) 650-5936
Photo of Sheyanne Petrovich, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sheyanne Petrovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Kahuku, HI 96731
Feeling in a rut like you cannot move forward from your past experiences? I am here to help you rediscover meaning and purpose within your life. My approach to psychotherapy begins with starting where you are in your journey. I use a variety of different trauma informed modalities and interventions to create a holistic and intuitive approach to healing. I provide an open and safe environment for you to share your stories, frustrations and worries. We will work through past experiences, help you move forward and heal while setting new goals and intentions to allow you to move safely and confidently into your future.
Feeling in a rut like you cannot move forward from your past experiences? I am here to help you rediscover meaning and purpose within your life. My approach to psychotherapy begins with starting where you are in your journey. I use a variety of different trauma informed modalities and interventions to create a holistic and intuitive approach to healing. I provide an open and safe environment for you to share your stories, frustrations and worries. We will work through past experiences, help you move forward and heal while setting new goals and intentions to allow you to move safely and confidently into your future.
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Photo of Melissa F Sipolt - Melissa Sipolt, MA, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Melissa Sipolt, MA, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734  (Online Only)
Making the decision to begin therapy/counseling is a big step, and I truly understand and respect the bravery and vulnerability that it takes for clients to reach out to a prospective therapist. Over the past 23 years, I have successfully helped thousands of individual adults, adolescents, children, couples and families to heal from issues related to anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, family and couple relationships, divorce, infertility, parenting, adoption, addiction, self-esteem, bullying, life transitions, grief, trauma, and adverse childhood events.
Making the decision to begin therapy/counseling is a big step, and I truly understand and respect the bravery and vulnerability that it takes for clients to reach out to a prospective therapist. Over the past 23 years, I have successfully helped thousands of individual adults, adolescents, children, couples and families to heal from issues related to anxiety, depression, difficulty concentrating, family and couple relationships, divorce, infertility, parenting, adoption, addiction, self-esteem, bullying, life transitions, grief, trauma, and adverse childhood events.
(808) 400-1544 View (808) 400-1544
Photo of Mimi M Chough, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Mimi M Chough
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734  (Online Only)
I have been helping couples and families find ways to bring calm, relaxation and even FUN back into their lives. Every family is unique and I will help you find your authentic and genuine connection by communicating and interacting in new ways that express your individuality. Through regaining trust and opening up communication families are reducing stress and depression and finding their way back together ... I'd like to show you how. Depression and anxiety are on the rise and can be making a big impact on how your marriage. Learning how to manage stressors and reduce fighting is a game changer, let's get started !
I have been helping couples and families find ways to bring calm, relaxation and even FUN back into their lives. Every family is unique and I will help you find your authentic and genuine connection by communicating and interacting in new ways that express your individuality. Through regaining trust and opening up communication families are reducing stress and depression and finding their way back together ... I'd like to show you how. Depression and anxiety are on the rise and can be making a big impact on how your marriage. Learning how to manage stressors and reduce fighting is a game changer, let's get started !
(808) 353-4850 View (808) 353-4850
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.