EMDR Therapists in Ventura, CA

Photo of Manuel R Delgado, Marriage & Family Therapist
Manuel R Delgado
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
I provide a person-centered approach and may utilize EMDR to help you process distressing experiences.
I welcome adults, who may be feeling depressed, anxious, have experienced traumatic event, dealing with relationship challenges or other experiences that are distressing.
I provide a person-centered approach and may utilize EMDR to help you process distressing experiences.
I welcome adults, who may be feeling depressed, anxious, have experienced traumatic event, dealing with relationship challenges or other experiences that are distressing.
(805) 214-1713 View (805) 214-1713
Photo of Kasey Curtis, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kasey Curtis
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
Specialty areas include EMDR, mindfulness, somatic- mind/body connection.
I'm licensed in CA and WA. Sometimes, despite best intentions and attempts, making change is not successful. It can be hard to get to where you want to go: less depression or anxiety, better relationships with others and yourself, with food, your body. Maybe the past keeps intruding upon the present, even though it seems like it should be resolved by now. Maybe you don’t feel quite like the best version of yourself and you don’t know why. I'm here to help you get reconnected to yourself, find the inner wisdom that I know exists within you. I don't know all the answers, but I know how to help you find your own answers.
Specialty areas include EMDR, mindfulness, somatic- mind/body connection.
I'm licensed in CA and WA. Sometimes, despite best intentions and attempts, making change is not successful. It can be hard to get to where you want to go: less depression or anxiety, better relationships with others and yourself, with food, your body. Maybe the past keeps intruding upon the present, even though it seems like it should be resolved by now. Maybe you don’t feel quite like the best version of yourself and you don’t know why. I'm here to help you get reconnected to yourself, find the inner wisdom that I know exists within you. I don't know all the answers, but I know how to help you find your own answers.
(805) 856-6458 View (805) 856-6458
Photo of Shira Mehrnia, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Shira Mehrnia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
My treatment approach includes an eclectic blend of mindfulness, depth psychology, EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and emotionally focused therapy (EFT).
My goal is to help my clients expand their capacity for trust and intimacy in relationships and improve their overall quality of life. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, relationship issues and women suffering from prepartum and postpartum depression. I have extensive experience in the treatment of eating disorders and body image issues.
My treatment approach includes an eclectic blend of mindfulness, depth psychology, EMDR, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) and emotionally focused therapy (EFT).
My goal is to help my clients expand their capacity for trust and intimacy in relationships and improve their overall quality of life. I help people struggling with depression, anxiety, low self esteem, relationship issues and women suffering from prepartum and postpartum depression. I have extensive experience in the treatment of eating disorders and body image issues.
(805) 954-9633 View (805) 954-9633
Photo of Sipora B. Weissman, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sipora B. Weissman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Certified Trauma Professional and am Certified in EMDR and like using it for limiting self-beliefs and trauma.
I get what it's like to live with- Chronic Pain & Illness, terrible Anxiety, and being Highly Sensitive that you feel everything! I help people with these issues along with complex trauma. Connecting the dots to understand how your childhood (upbringing, trauma, stressful events, family) may be contributing to your distress today can be extremely eye opening and transformative. In session I use many deeper brain therapies to support change. Healing and becoming a secure capable human is the goal and completely attainable. I view therapy as a collaboration, and as a Mind-Body Therapist I am an active participant and guide.
I am a Certified Trauma Professional and am Certified in EMDR and like using it for limiting self-beliefs and trauma.
I get what it's like to live with- Chronic Pain & Illness, terrible Anxiety, and being Highly Sensitive that you feel everything! I help people with these issues along with complex trauma. Connecting the dots to understand how your childhood (upbringing, trauma, stressful events, family) may be contributing to your distress today can be extremely eye opening and transformative. In session I use many deeper brain therapies to support change. Healing and becoming a secure capable human is the goal and completely attainable. I view therapy as a collaboration, and as a Mind-Body Therapist I am an active participant and guide.
(805) 219-7241 x718928 View (805) 219-7241 x718928
Photo of Destiny Morris, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Destiny Morris
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
I am a trauma informed therapist who is trained in EMDR therapy.
I see both first responders as well as non first responders in my practice. I find that one of the most important elements to good therapy is a good match between the therapist and client. I encourage anyone looking into therapy to schedule a free consultation call to ensure that we are a good match! It may also help to listen to a few of my podcast episodes to get a feel for my personality and approaches to treatment. I work with young adults (16 and up) as well as adults to help process trauma, anxiety, depression, and social and relational issues.
I am a trauma informed therapist who is trained in EMDR therapy.
I see both first responders as well as non first responders in my practice. I find that one of the most important elements to good therapy is a good match between the therapist and client. I encourage anyone looking into therapy to schedule a free consultation call to ensure that we are a good match! It may also help to listen to a few of my podcast episodes to get a feel for my personality and approaches to treatment. I work with young adults (16 and up) as well as adults to help process trauma, anxiety, depression, and social and relational issues.
(805) 900-4038 View (805) 900-4038
Photo of Jean C Lampert, MS, MEd, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jean C Lampert
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MEd
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93006
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and offer somatic focused approaches including Somatic Regulating Touch, EMDR, and ritual for deep healing.
The last few years have been hard for many of us, both individually and collectively. Grief and overwhelm are high, and you may rightfully be feeling anxious, overwhelmed or collapsed. If you are physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually depleted, there are ways to bring yourself back into balance.
I am a Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, and offer somatic focused approaches including Somatic Regulating Touch, EMDR, and ritual for deep healing.
The last few years have been hard for many of us, both individually and collectively. Grief and overwhelm are high, and you may rightfully be feeling anxious, overwhelmed or collapsed. If you are physically, mentally, emotionally, or spiritually depleted, there are ways to bring yourself back into balance.
(805) 870-9052 View (805) 870-9052
Photo of Nyssa Von Doeren - Ventura Therapy Collective, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ventura Therapy Collective
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
We offer a variety of skills based interventions, trauma informed care, EMDR, ACT, CBT and a person centered approach.
Welcome to Ventura Therapy Collective! A collective group of therapists that work with Individuals/Couples/Families, offering holistic care, trauma informed treatment, skills based interventions and unconditional positive regard for your process
We offer a variety of skills based interventions, trauma informed care, EMDR, ACT, CBT and a person centered approach.
Welcome to Ventura Therapy Collective! A collective group of therapists that work with Individuals/Couples/Families, offering holistic care, trauma informed treatment, skills based interventions and unconditional positive regard for your process
(805) 222-0136 View (805) 222-0136
Photo of Karen McIntyre, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karen McIntyre
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
EMDR is a powerful tool I use to heal past trauma large or small.
Did growing up in a wounding family cause trauma that is still affecting you? Did you experience trauma at the hands of another that left you with feelings of being unsafe, insecure and unlovable? Guilt and shame? Imagine waking up peaceful and optimistic about your Life and future. Imagine having relationships that are loving and full of grace and building a family that is one that you would have loved to grow up in. If you can see it you can be it…lets work through old trauma so that you can see and be the “you” that you have always wanted to be! Helping people work through trauma is what I love to do!
EMDR is a powerful tool I use to heal past trauma large or small.
Did growing up in a wounding family cause trauma that is still affecting you? Did you experience trauma at the hands of another that left you with feelings of being unsafe, insecure and unlovable? Guilt and shame? Imagine waking up peaceful and optimistic about your Life and future. Imagine having relationships that are loving and full of grace and building a family that is one that you would have loved to grow up in. If you can see it you can be it…lets work through old trauma so that you can see and be the “you” that you have always wanted to be! Helping people work through trauma is what I love to do!
(805) 312-3421 View (805) 312-3421
Photo of Angie Small Booth - Angie Small Booth, LMFT, JD, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Angie Small Booth, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, JD, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
In addition to talk therapy, I offer EMDR for PTSD, art therapy and sandtray, and support for those in 12-step recovery.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you worried about a loved one? Are you in recovery (or want to be) from trauma, neglect or "coping mechanisms" like substance use and acting out? I understand that we generally do the best we can, which sometimes is not as great as other times. Therapy with someone you trust is a powerful tool for creating emotional health. It is possible to learn new ways of getting relief and finding a sense of well-being. Asking for help takes courage. Change is possible. I will walk this journey with you, at your pace. I will help you get your needs met and make the changes you want.
In addition to talk therapy, I offer EMDR for PTSD, art therapy and sandtray, and support for those in 12-step recovery.
Are you feeling anxious or depressed? Are you worried about a loved one? Are you in recovery (or want to be) from trauma, neglect or "coping mechanisms" like substance use and acting out? I understand that we generally do the best we can, which sometimes is not as great as other times. Therapy with someone you trust is a powerful tool for creating emotional health. It is possible to learn new ways of getting relief and finding a sense of well-being. Asking for help takes courage. Change is possible. I will walk this journey with you, at your pace. I will help you get your needs met and make the changes you want.
(424) 258-5534 View (424) 258-5534
Photo of Hong Jeong, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Hong Jeong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003
I specialize in trauma processing and am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
I specialize in trauma processing and am certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
We all go through emotional storms where we feel emotionally and physically stuck; we worry too much and lose control of ourselves. Do you find yourself thrown off balance by your childhood trauma? Childhood traumatic experiences such as abandonment, abuse, and neglect lead to social anxiety. My approach is solution-focused and tailored to your needs and goals. I am committed to providing a profound sense of safety and offering compassionate and actionable guidance to all my clients.
(213) 769-8307 View (213) 769-8307
Photo of Lisa Tomei, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Tomei
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
I have also begun using EMDR for complex trauma, and am finding it extremely effective.
I connect well with some teens and most adults or couples. I find I work best with people who are invested in understanding why they feel as they do, or why they do what they do, and want a collaborative partner in exploring how to better manage the stressors in their life, whether internal or inter-relational. I have a background in anger management, which can often address problems of the underlying emotions, and help with communications skills. I tend to conceptualize from a psychodynamic perspective and educate my patients about these ideas when I think it will prove helpful.
I have also begun using EMDR for complex trauma, and am finding it extremely effective.
I connect well with some teens and most adults or couples. I find I work best with people who are invested in understanding why they feel as they do, or why they do what they do, and want a collaborative partner in exploring how to better manage the stressors in their life, whether internal or inter-relational. I have a background in anger management, which can often address problems of the underlying emotions, and help with communications skills. I tend to conceptualize from a psychodynamic perspective and educate my patients about these ideas when I think it will prove helpful.
(805) 590-2781 View (805) 590-2781
Photo of Maggie Hernandez - Maggie Hernandez - First Responders, Trauma, LGBTQ, MA, AMFT
Maggie Hernandez - First Responders, Trauma, LGBTQ
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I'm EMDR-trained and incorporate attachment & somatic work in the healing process to help my clients get back in touch with the truths their bodies hold.
As a first-responder, finding a therapist who gets you and can hold space for what you're dealing with can be challenging. I help my clients achieve post-traumatic growth in a relaxed environment through my straightforward (no BS), compassionate approach. I understand healing can be messy, and growth can be uncomfortable, so I blend empathy and genuine curiosity with some dark humor and the occasional f-bomb to create a brave space for my clients to work through their most challenging experiences. We all have our own unique stories, and I hope it offers comfort to my clients that I have invested in my own trauma healing.
I'm EMDR-trained and incorporate attachment & somatic work in the healing process to help my clients get back in touch with the truths their bodies hold.
As a first-responder, finding a therapist who gets you and can hold space for what you're dealing with can be challenging. I help my clients achieve post-traumatic growth in a relaxed environment through my straightforward (no BS), compassionate approach. I understand healing can be messy, and growth can be uncomfortable, so I blend empathy and genuine curiosity with some dark humor and the occasional f-bomb to create a brave space for my clients to work through their most challenging experiences. We all have our own unique stories, and I hope it offers comfort to my clients that I have invested in my own trauma healing.
(805) 918-8218 View (805) 918-8218
Photo of Alyssa Yvonne Rodriguez, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Alyssa Yvonne Rodriguez
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I am currently in EMDR basic training and taking consult clients for it.
Do you ever feel alone, lonely, confused, angry, and don't know why or how to cope with these emotions? Complex emotions can hijack our day-to-day lives leaving us feeling defeated. Sometimes we are not taught adaptive ways to cope at an early age making it hard to manage our stressors. Our stressors can affect our emotions and how we behave due to those feelings, which can create tension in our interpersonal relationships and how we view ourselves. I believe in having a trusting, genuine, and collaborative relationship with my clients to show them trust, acceptance, and healing can be attainable.
I am currently in EMDR basic training and taking consult clients for it.
Do you ever feel alone, lonely, confused, angry, and don't know why or how to cope with these emotions? Complex emotions can hijack our day-to-day lives leaving us feeling defeated. Sometimes we are not taught adaptive ways to cope at an early age making it hard to manage our stressors. Our stressors can affect our emotions and how we behave due to those feelings, which can create tension in our interpersonal relationships and how we view ourselves. I believe in having a trusting, genuine, and collaborative relationship with my clients to show them trust, acceptance, and healing can be attainable.
(805) 200-4249 View (805) 200-4249
Photo of Karin Lucero-Martinez, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Karin Lucero-Martinez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
I am EMDR trained and Triple P certified.
Only Morning and Midday Availabilities. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist my objective is to provide therapeutic services and psychoeducation to individuals and families in need. I am determined to focus and explore individual’s strengths, struggles and strategies for change, to help them improve their overall well-being. I am certain that I will be able to provide positive assistance by being empathetic, culturally sensitive and by providing the adequate attention to help you meet your personal goals and needs.
I am EMDR trained and Triple P certified.
Only Morning and Midday Availabilities. As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist my objective is to provide therapeutic services and psychoeducation to individuals and families in need. I am determined to focus and explore individual’s strengths, struggles and strategies for change, to help them improve their overall well-being. I am certain that I will be able to provide positive assistance by being empathetic, culturally sensitive and by providing the adequate attention to help you meet your personal goals and needs.
(805) 307-7905 View (805) 307-7905
Photo of Dianne Nicholas, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dianne Nicholas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93004
I am trained in EMDR (trauma treatment), Theraplay (attachment-trauma child therapy) DDP (attachment Family Therapy), EFT (emotionally focused couples therapy) DBT (dialectic behavior therapy) and TFCBT (trauma-focused CBT).
Life's challenges today are increasing levels of trauma, anxiety, depression, dramatic mood shifts and lowering self-esteem. I can offer a safe, sensitive, compassionate, relationship based solution. Together we will explore the impact of painful thoughts and emotions enabling us to develop a basis for clear insight and set the stage for hopeful growth and transformation.
I am trained in EMDR (trauma treatment), Theraplay (attachment-trauma child therapy) DDP (attachment Family Therapy), EFT (emotionally focused couples therapy) DBT (dialectic behavior therapy) and TFCBT (trauma-focused CBT).
Life's challenges today are increasing levels of trauma, anxiety, depression, dramatic mood shifts and lowering self-esteem. I can offer a safe, sensitive, compassionate, relationship based solution. Together we will explore the impact of painful thoughts and emotions enabling us to develop a basis for clear insight and set the stage for hopeful growth and transformation.
(805) 874-5084 View (805) 874-5084
Photo of Dr. Maggie Lavey, PsyD, LPCC, EMDR
Dr. Maggie Lavey
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PsyD, LPCC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93003  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR trained therapist with multiple trauma focused specialty approaches, tailored to your unique needs.
As a trauma focused and EMDR provider I understand the impact that trauma has on one’s lived experience. It is essential to have a safe, nonjudgmental place to work through painful experiences. I use an integrative eclectic approach to provide safety, manage emotions, address unhelpful beliefs and to work to heal and release you from the painful past of your trauma. Together we formulate your desired treatment goals to empower you to see changes in your daily life. I specialize in a range of therapies and broad view of theories such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, Polyvagal theory, attachment theory, mindfulness, trauma informed yoga, mind body.
I am an EMDR trained therapist with multiple trauma focused specialty approaches, tailored to your unique needs.
As a trauma focused and EMDR provider I understand the impact that trauma has on one’s lived experience. It is essential to have a safe, nonjudgmental place to work through painful experiences. I use an integrative eclectic approach to provide safety, manage emotions, address unhelpful beliefs and to work to heal and release you from the painful past of your trauma. Together we formulate your desired treatment goals to empower you to see changes in your daily life. I specialize in a range of therapies and broad view of theories such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, Polyvagal theory, attachment theory, mindfulness, trauma informed yoga, mind body.
(805) 321-1547 View (805) 321-1547
Photo of Diana Wightman, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Wightman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
Has trauma, loss or grief made it difficult to live the life you really want? How do you imagine your life changing or being more satisfying? My approach is respectful, encouraging and focused on growth. I'm trained in what are called "power therapies." EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and BSP (Brainspotting) have the potential to heal deeply, from within the brain and body, and create understanding and relief.
Has trauma, loss or grief made it difficult to live the life you really want? How do you imagine your life changing or being more satisfying? My approach is respectful, encouraging and focused on growth. I'm trained in what are called "power therapies." EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and BSP (Brainspotting) have the potential to heal deeply, from within the brain and body, and create understanding and relief.
(805) 232-7368 View (805) 232-7368
Photo of Emily Fleck, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Fleck
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Ventura, CA 93001
I am certified in EMDR therapy.
There are many reasons people seek therapy. Most likely, you're here because you're feeling out of balance in some aspect of your life. You may be looking for better ways to cope with depression or anxiety, change patterns that lead to unhealthy behaviors or relationships, or heal from a difficult or traumatic experience. Therapy can help you gain insight about yourself, increase your sense of confidence, or help you explore a new life path with courage and intention. My hope is to provide support, tools, and encouragement to help you find greater balance, authenticity, and overall well-being.
I am certified in EMDR therapy.
There are many reasons people seek therapy. Most likely, you're here because you're feeling out of balance in some aspect of your life. You may be looking for better ways to cope with depression or anxiety, change patterns that lead to unhealthy behaviors or relationships, or heal from a difficult or traumatic experience. Therapy can help you gain insight about yourself, increase your sense of confidence, or help you explore a new life path with courage and intention. My hope is to provide support, tools, and encouragement to help you find greater balance, authenticity, and overall well-being.
(805) 856-6736 View (805) 856-6736
Photo of Maureen Donohue - Maureen Donohue, LCSW Therapy & Wellness, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maureen Donohue, LCSW Therapy & Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93001  (Online Only)
I'm a certified Brainspotting and EMDR practicioner and also incorporate IFS (Parts) work.
I'm a Brainspotting Consultant in training and have done profound healing from complex and developmental trauma (CPTSD) and so can you! Let's do it together! Using Brainspotting, we'll tap into the incredible healing power of your brilliant brain and "rewire" the connectivity to heal the pathways of trauma in your nervous system and connect to calm and joy. I hold very deep neurobiological attunement to support your natural healing abilities. Whatever you're struggling with, you CAN heal profoundly. I've been helping people heal for 30 years from even the deepest trauma. You can and deserve to heal.
I'm a certified Brainspotting and EMDR practicioner and also incorporate IFS (Parts) work.
I'm a Brainspotting Consultant in training and have done profound healing from complex and developmental trauma (CPTSD) and so can you! Let's do it together! Using Brainspotting, we'll tap into the incredible healing power of your brilliant brain and "rewire" the connectivity to heal the pathways of trauma in your nervous system and connect to calm and joy. I hold very deep neurobiological attunement to support your natural healing abilities. Whatever you're struggling with, you CAN heal profoundly. I've been helping people heal for 30 years from even the deepest trauma. You can and deserve to heal.
(661) 402-8716 View (661) 402-8716
Photo of Teresa R. Morales - Irimiya Trauma Therapy, Inc., LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Irimiya Trauma Therapy, Inc.
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Ventura, CA 93003
Our therapists provide EMDR, Somatic Techniques, Parts Work, CBT and Talk Therapy, focusing on internal healing, growth and fulfillment.
Accepting New Clients! We are a group practice providing trauma therapy to adult survivors of childhood abuse. Unresolved childhood abuse, can leave you feeling overwhelmed, not fully present, living with intrusive thoughts and memories of past trauma, struggling with everyday tasks, dealing with depression, anxiety and C-PTSD. As clinical trauma professionals, we believe you have the courage to heal from emotional pain by facing it, rather than avoiding it. Together in therapy, we will work to achieve empowerment, safety and strength, in order to better concentrate, have healthy relationships, and achieve internal growth.
Our therapists provide EMDR, Somatic Techniques, Parts Work, CBT and Talk Therapy, focusing on internal healing, growth and fulfillment.
Accepting New Clients! We are a group practice providing trauma therapy to adult survivors of childhood abuse. Unresolved childhood abuse, can leave you feeling overwhelmed, not fully present, living with intrusive thoughts and memories of past trauma, struggling with everyday tasks, dealing with depression, anxiety and C-PTSD. As clinical trauma professionals, we believe you have the courage to heal from emotional pain by facing it, rather than avoiding it. Together in therapy, we will work to achieve empowerment, safety and strength, in order to better concentrate, have healthy relationships, and achieve internal growth.
(805) 883-6273 View (805) 883-6273
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.