EMDR Therapists in San Francisco County, CA

Photo of Silvia MacAllister Voermanek, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
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 Lara Curry, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Lara Curry
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94118
My name is Lara Curry. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've helped people struggling with anxiety, depression, alcohol use, relationship issues, and relapse prevention. I employ EMDR, Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Trauma-focused, and Solution-focused brief therapy modalities. I assume anyone seeking psychotherapy genuinely desires to help sort out the difficulties in their lives. I try to work as a co-investigator to understand the issues and help explain how they evolved and how to resolve them in an informal, caring partnership with my clients.
My name is Lara Curry. I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. I've helped people struggling with anxiety, depression, alcohol use, relationship issues, and relapse prevention. I employ EMDR, Family Systems, Psychodynamic, Trauma-focused, and Solution-focused brief therapy modalities. I assume anyone seeking psychotherapy genuinely desires to help sort out the difficulties in their lives. I try to work as a co-investigator to understand the issues and help explain how they evolved and how to resolve them in an informal, caring partnership with my clients.
(661) 271-6194 View (661) 271-6194
Photo of Daphne Humes, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Daphne Humes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94146
I use an integrative approach that often includes EMDR.
Life comes with a lot of challenges and adversity that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Maybe you're noticing that you complain a lot about feeling stressed, tired, and unfulfilled or you know you'd be happier if you made changes but it feels too difficult. It’s possible to feel better. My clients discover that it's possible to manage their difficult feelings and be more engaged in their relationships. With over ten years of experience, I work with people who want to make changes in their lives, learn healthy coping strategies, heal past trauma, and improve their relationships with others.
I use an integrative approach that often includes EMDR.
Life comes with a lot of challenges and adversity that can sometimes feel overwhelming. Maybe you're noticing that you complain a lot about feeling stressed, tired, and unfulfilled or you know you'd be happier if you made changes but it feels too difficult. It’s possible to feel better. My clients discover that it's possible to manage their difficult feelings and be more engaged in their relationships. With over ten years of experience, I work with people who want to make changes in their lives, learn healthy coping strategies, heal past trauma, and improve their relationships with others.
(415) 964-1054 View (415) 964-1054
Photo of Bahar Yaghoubian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Bahar Yaghoubian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
I combine Western practices such as EMDR , Trauma Resiliency Model, & CBT with Eastern practices such as Mindfulness and Yoga Nidra (L1) in order to create a holistic and integrative approach that is tailored to your needs!.
Before your day starts, your heart and mind are already racing, your back and neck feel tense, and your stomach feels queasy. You have this feeling that you are stuck and not sure how to get out of this situation. You think to yourself, “What is happening to my life? Why do I feel this way?” Worry, fear, avoidance, racing heart and negative thoughts. In other words, Anxiety!!! It’s taking up all your energy and controlling your thoughts, emotions, and body. It feels like the anxiety is running your life.
I combine Western practices such as EMDR , Trauma Resiliency Model, & CBT with Eastern practices such as Mindfulness and Yoga Nidra (L1) in order to create a holistic and integrative approach that is tailored to your needs!.
Before your day starts, your heart and mind are already racing, your back and neck feel tense, and your stomach feels queasy. You have this feeling that you are stuck and not sure how to get out of this situation. You think to yourself, “What is happening to my life? Why do I feel this way?” Worry, fear, avoidance, racing heart and negative thoughts. In other words, Anxiety!!! It’s taking up all your energy and controlling your thoughts, emotions, and body. It feels like the anxiety is running your life.
(818) 616-8916 View (818) 616-8916
Photo of Katie Cofer, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Katie Cofer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
I am trained in EMDR for trauma and the Hakomi Method, an experiential, body-centered approach.
My ideal client is someone who wants solutions to current life issues, but also to explore and let go of limiting beliefs and patterns. Many of them deal with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and blocked creativity. Uncovering and releasing unresolved emotions opens up space for lasting change. My Mind/Body approach integrates relational talk therapy, somatics, and expressive arts. Through these processes of self-discovery and healing, clients may feel more empowered and connected with their innate vitality and creativity.
I am trained in EMDR for trauma and the Hakomi Method, an experiential, body-centered approach.
My ideal client is someone who wants solutions to current life issues, but also to explore and let go of limiting beliefs and patterns. Many of them deal with depression, anxiety, stress, trauma, relationship issues, and blocked creativity. Uncovering and releasing unresolved emotions opens up space for lasting change. My Mind/Body approach integrates relational talk therapy, somatics, and expressive arts. Through these processes of self-discovery and healing, clients may feel more empowered and connected with their innate vitality and creativity.
(415) 742-1951 View (415) 742-1951
Photo of Melanie Maddox, Associate Clinical Social Worker in San Francisco County, CA
Melanie Maddox
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I utilize EMDR and trauma-focused therapy for addressing both the cognitive and somatic impacts of trauma, emphasizing their resilience, and rekindling hope for the future.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
I utilize EMDR and trauma-focused therapy for addressing both the cognitive and somatic impacts of trauma, emphasizing their resilience, and rekindling hope for the future.
Are you experiencing challenges in dealing with anxiety, depression, and traumatic experiences? Do you struggle with effective communication and setting boundaries in your relationships with others? Life often presents obstacles and difficulties that might lead to these difficulties without proper tools, resources, and guidance. I utilize CBT, DBT, ACT, and Trauma-informed care to help you manage symptoms and promote healing and growth. With a deep appreciation for the uniqueness of each client and their lived experiences, I foster a collaborative and inclusive therapeutic environment.
(415) 969-2738 View (415) 969-2738
Photo of Mena K Zaminsky, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Mena K Zaminsky
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
I draw from somatic & attachment therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy & EMDR.
People often begin therapy because they are in emotional pain or a crisis and need relief from their suffering. While difficult, it is often the catalyst that opens the door to creative life force and new possibilities in living in the world. Psychotherapy is a deeply personal, individualized, alchemical process. I serve clients in the areas of trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship issues, anxiety, addictions and self-development. I assist clients in not only getting relief from their suffering but also enhancing their personal and spiritual lives and having healthier relationships with themselves and others.
I draw from somatic & attachment therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy & EMDR.
People often begin therapy because they are in emotional pain or a crisis and need relief from their suffering. While difficult, it is often the catalyst that opens the door to creative life force and new possibilities in living in the world. Psychotherapy is a deeply personal, individualized, alchemical process. I serve clients in the areas of trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), relationship issues, anxiety, addictions and self-development. I assist clients in not only getting relief from their suffering but also enhancing their personal and spiritual lives and having healthier relationships with themselves and others.
(415) 799-9440 View (415) 799-9440
Photo of Veronica Elizabeth Encinas, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Veronica Elizabeth Encinas
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94117
I am trained in Attachment Based EMDR, Mindful practices, and Family Constellation work.
My passion and dedication to this work lies in that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Everyone at some point in their life has had some frictions or challenges and need support to get through those times. I work experientially and relationally. Welcoming clients to tell their stories, histories, and important aspects of life.
I am trained in Attachment Based EMDR, Mindful practices, and Family Constellation work.
My passion and dedication to this work lies in that asking for help is not a sign of weakness. Everyone at some point in their life has had some frictions or challenges and need support to get through those times. I work experientially and relationally. Welcoming clients to tell their stories, histories, and important aspects of life.
(415) 895-9752 View (415) 895-9752
Photo of Carol Gomez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Carol Gomez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94105  (Online Only)
My therapeutic healing lens and orientation is embedded in Feminist Theory, Critical Race Theory, Liberation Psychology, somatic based healing, Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), Strengths-based work, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Relational Psychodynamic and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
My foundational work and experience is rooted in decades of hands-on social justice, advocacy and community organizing work primarily with communities of color, immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+ folx and survivors of partner violence, sexual violence and labor exploitation.
My therapeutic healing lens and orientation is embedded in Feminist Theory, Critical Race Theory, Liberation Psychology, somatic based healing, Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM), Strengths-based work, Narrative Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Relational Psychodynamic and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
My foundational work and experience is rooted in decades of hands-on social justice, advocacy and community organizing work primarily with communities of color, immigrants, refugees, LGBTQ+ folx and survivors of partner violence, sexual violence and labor exploitation.
(415) 903-4648 View (415) 903-4648
Photo of Brian Polis, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Francisco County, CA
Brian Polis
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, MS, LPCC, PPS
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
Brainspotting/EMDR trained, I approach therapy with a humanistic mindset, focused on developing insight to overcome the barriers that are preventing you from fully living life.
Opening up around the vulnerable and intimate details of our lives can be very uncomfortable. There is so much pressure to be “happy”, “better”, or “perfect”, while receiving messaging that being anything else is unacceptable. We are very adaptive yet often struggle to effectively get our needs met, so may engage in avoidance behaviors and withhold or internalize our feelings to try to prevent things from getting worse. You want to feel more like your true self and get more satisfaction out of your relationships. You need an unconditionally supportive, non-judgmental, creative, and humorous therapist who accepts you however you are.
Brainspotting/EMDR trained, I approach therapy with a humanistic mindset, focused on developing insight to overcome the barriers that are preventing you from fully living life.
Opening up around the vulnerable and intimate details of our lives can be very uncomfortable. There is so much pressure to be “happy”, “better”, or “perfect”, while receiving messaging that being anything else is unacceptable. We are very adaptive yet often struggle to effectively get our needs met, so may engage in avoidance behaviors and withhold or internalize our feelings to try to prevent things from getting worse. You want to feel more like your true self and get more satisfaction out of your relationships. You need an unconditionally supportive, non-judgmental, creative, and humorous therapist who accepts you however you are.
(628) 232-8422 View (628) 232-8422
Photo of Ryoko Moriguchi, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Ryoko Moriguchi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102
Update: Now accepting new clients for Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy. Whether you are looking for help with specific situations, or a place to continue your recovery, having an objective and supportive guide is essential. Therapy is an invaluable process for anyone who is trying to come to terms with painful experiences, to change patterns that no longer serve you, or to find inner balance in an ever-changing world.
Update: Now accepting new clients for Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy. Whether you are looking for help with specific situations, or a place to continue your recovery, having an objective and supportive guide is essential. Therapy is an invaluable process for anyone who is trying to come to terms with painful experiences, to change patterns that no longer serve you, or to find inner balance in an ever-changing world.
(415) 877-4239 View (415) 877-4239
Photo of Karen S Rowe, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Karen S Rowe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94122  (Online Only)
By using EMDR Therapy and EFT( Emotional Freedom Tech you will have the chance to heal rapidly with a greater sense of mastery and faith in your ability to work through whatever life brings.
Therapy is a transforming way you can manifest remarkable lasting changes. You may have a history of sexual, physical, or emotional trauma that interferes with relationships, work, your parenting, your creative self and/or your ability to be in the the moment. You may also be struggling with difficulties with your mood, negative self talk or feelings of unresolved grief. Whatever your struggle is about I welcome the chance to be a part that change with you. Maybe it's time to find meaning from your pain, and create a new path full of hope, connection and positive self worth.
By using EMDR Therapy and EFT( Emotional Freedom Tech you will have the chance to heal rapidly with a greater sense of mastery and faith in your ability to work through whatever life brings.
Therapy is a transforming way you can manifest remarkable lasting changes. You may have a history of sexual, physical, or emotional trauma that interferes with relationships, work, your parenting, your creative self and/or your ability to be in the the moment. You may also be struggling with difficulties with your mood, negative self talk or feelings of unresolved grief. Whatever your struggle is about I welcome the chance to be a part that change with you. Maybe it's time to find meaning from your pain, and create a new path full of hope, connection and positive self worth.
(415) 430-9753 View (415) 430-9753
Photo of Maureen Mccracken, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
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 Sally Scheidlinger, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Sally Scheidlinger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115
I am also trained in EMDR and can provide this evidence-based trauma therapy.
I imagine you’ve been hard on yourself lately. Thoughts like, “you’re not good enough” or “you should be over this by now,” play on repeat, unchecked. My approach is one focused on self-compassion, the art of reworking internal monologues to respond to yourself in a gentler, more understanding manner. You may not feel ready or deserving of treating yourself more kindly, but I would be honored to hold that warm space for you until you are.
I am also trained in EMDR and can provide this evidence-based trauma therapy.
I imagine you’ve been hard on yourself lately. Thoughts like, “you’re not good enough” or “you should be over this by now,” play on repeat, unchecked. My approach is one focused on self-compassion, the art of reworking internal monologues to respond to yourself in a gentler, more understanding manner. You may not feel ready or deserving of treating yourself more kindly, but I would be honored to hold that warm space for you until you are.
(415) 966-4828 View (415) 966-4828
Photo of Alex Silberstein, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Alex Silberstein
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94102  (Online Only)
EMDR is a powerful method of therapy that helps people get unstuck from their past.
I specialize in helping adults overcome anxiety and depression. As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I focus on helping clients recover from the effects of trauma. I also enjoy working with couples to develop effective communication skills and reduce destructive conflict. I strive to provide clients with a warm, secure environment in which they feel safe to explore painful experiences from the past that need healing. My approach combines the perspective of long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy with more practical cognitive-behavioral methods, as well as using the latest research from neuroscience about how our minds develop and change.
EMDR is a powerful method of therapy that helps people get unstuck from their past.
I specialize in helping adults overcome anxiety and depression. As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I focus on helping clients recover from the effects of trauma. I also enjoy working with couples to develop effective communication skills and reduce destructive conflict. I strive to provide clients with a warm, secure environment in which they feel safe to explore painful experiences from the past that need healing. My approach combines the perspective of long-term psychodynamic psychotherapy with more practical cognitive-behavioral methods, as well as using the latest research from neuroscience about how our minds develop and change.
(415) 646-0421 View (415) 646-0421
Photo of Erik Paul Anton Deiters, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Erik Paul Anton Deiters
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94114
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Francisco and Sebastopol, California. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR. I work with individuals and couples to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health issues, as well as substance use and within the LGBTQ+ community.
I'm a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Francisco and Sebastopol, California. I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy, Narrative Therapy, and EMDR. I work with individuals and couples to treat depression, anxiety, bipolar, and other mental health issues, as well as substance use and within the LGBTQ+ community.
(415) 366-3713 View (415) 366-3713
Photo of Alissa DiFranco, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Alissa DiFranco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CFRC
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131  (Online Only)
I draw upon a broad theoretical background that includes EMDR, psychoanalytic theory, attachment theory, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, as well as over 30 years of experience in the practices of yoga and art.
My style of working is thoughtful and direct. I am committed to helping people discover and enhance their emotional capacity in order to create more satisfying lives. Through the transformative experience of being deeply understood by another in an authentic, safe and honest relationship, people can transform destructive patterns into more satisfying expressions of self.
I draw upon a broad theoretical background that includes EMDR, psychoanalytic theory, attachment theory, and cognitive-behavioral therapy, as well as over 30 years of experience in the practices of yoga and art.
My style of working is thoughtful and direct. I am committed to helping people discover and enhance their emotional capacity in order to create more satisfying lives. Through the transformative experience of being deeply understood by another in an authentic, safe and honest relationship, people can transform destructive patterns into more satisfying expressions of self.
(415) 237-4360 View (415) 237-4360
Photo of Arielle Piastunovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Francisco County, CA
Arielle Piastunovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94107  (Online Only)
I practice trauma informed supportive psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy, couples therapy, addiction therapy, and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
I practice trauma informed supportive psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy, couples therapy, addiction therapy, and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
(650) 206-9870 View (650) 206-9870
Photo of Greg Garavanian, Psychologist in San Francisco County, CA
Greg Garavanian
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94131
Therapies I use include Internal Family Systems, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and EMDR.
All too often emotional suffering feels familiar, a sense of being stuck in the same frustrating patterns. Talking about your struggles may provide some temporary relief, but may not produce the long-term change wanted. My approach involves a combination of practical techniques to help you alleviate your symptoms and using integrated mind-body modalities that offer the possibility of healing outside of the traditional "talking cure." Working together at the pace that feels right for you, we will help you connect to your core self, provide healing for the hurt parts of you and open new possibilities for your future.
Therapies I use include Internal Family Systems, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and EMDR.
All too often emotional suffering feels familiar, a sense of being stuck in the same frustrating patterns. Talking about your struggles may provide some temporary relief, but may not produce the long-term change wanted. My approach involves a combination of practical techniques to help you alleviate your symptoms and using integrated mind-body modalities that offer the possibility of healing outside of the traditional "talking cure." Working together at the pace that feels right for you, we will help you connect to your core self, provide healing for the hurt parts of you and open new possibilities for your future.
(415) 843-6231 View (415) 843-6231
Photo of Haley Kong, Associate Clinical Social Worker in San Francisco County, CA
Haley Kong
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94115  (Online Only)
As an EMDR trained and trauma therapist, I am here to support you to find hope and healing in your story.
Your story can have a haunting past, an invisible force hindering the creation of healthy relationships and memories. Trauma, in all its forms, casts shadows on our present, displaying its effects into present symptoms like anxiety, depression and unhealthy coping mechanisms. But what if your story doesn't have to end here?
As an EMDR trained and trauma therapist, I am here to support you to find hope and healing in your story.
Your story can have a haunting past, an invisible force hindering the creation of healthy relationships and memories. Trauma, in all its forms, casts shadows on our present, displaying its effects into present symptoms like anxiety, depression and unhealthy coping mechanisms. But what if your story doesn't have to end here?
(415) 691-8875 View (415) 691-8875

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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.