EMDR Therapists in 91016

Photo of Brooke Bender, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Brooke Bender
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
Over the years I have tried many different treatment modalities, but I have found that EMDR therapy is the most effective and will get you feeling better faster than talk therapy alone.
Are you ready to heal from past wounds? Want to feel better about yourself with friends or in dating? Feel more confident at work? At school? In your parenting? You've hit a point in your life where you are tired of feeling the same way- stressed, anxious, disappointed- and are ready to focus on healing you. If you are ready to heal, I’d be honored to talk with you and see if we can work together. I'm invested in helping you feel more confident, happy and at peace.
Over the years I have tried many different treatment modalities, but I have found that EMDR therapy is the most effective and will get you feeling better faster than talk therapy alone.
Are you ready to heal from past wounds? Want to feel better about yourself with friends or in dating? Feel more confident at work? At school? In your parenting? You've hit a point in your life where you are tired of feeling the same way- stressed, anxious, disappointed- and are ready to focus on healing you. If you are ready to heal, I’d be honored to talk with you and see if we can work together. I'm invested in helping you feel more confident, happy and at peace.
(626) 669-3065 View (626) 669-3065
Photo of Celia Orozco, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Celia Orozco
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016  (Online Only)
I also provide EMDR, which helps people overcome traumatic experiences by reprocessing traumatic events.
Each of us has had an experience that leads us to question ourselves: Who we are? What we are doing? What are our life goals? In therapy, we can explore certain challenges of life that may cause anxiety, depression, stress, or any other difficult feeling. "Like the lotus flower that is born out of mud, we must honor the darkest parts of ourselves and the most painful of our life's experiences, because they are what allow us to birth our most beautiful self" -Debbie Ford
I also provide EMDR, which helps people overcome traumatic experiences by reprocessing traumatic events.
Each of us has had an experience that leads us to question ourselves: Who we are? What we are doing? What are our life goals? In therapy, we can explore certain challenges of life that may cause anxiety, depression, stress, or any other difficult feeling. "Like the lotus flower that is born out of mud, we must honor the darkest parts of ourselves and the most painful of our life's experiences, because they are what allow us to birth our most beautiful self" -Debbie Ford
(626) 587-3210 View (626) 587-3210
Photo of Emma Eskander, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emma Eskander
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016  (Online Only)
I utilize evidence based tools like CBT, ACT, ERP, and EMDR.
For many reasons, life can sometimes feel overwhelming and unmanageable. Whether you're grappling with anxiety or depression, reeling from a major life change, or simply feeling stuck, know that you are not alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support to help you navigate through difficult times and find a path forward.
I utilize evidence based tools like CBT, ACT, ERP, and EMDR.
For many reasons, life can sometimes feel overwhelming and unmanageable. Whether you're grappling with anxiety or depression, reeling from a major life change, or simply feeling stuck, know that you are not alone. I'm here to offer compassionate support to help you navigate through difficult times and find a path forward.
(626) 635-3934 View (626) 635-3934
Nicole Georgino
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
I believe each individual is the expert of their own experiences and therefore, I take on a collaborative and individualized approach in therapy together. In doing so, I like to utilize various approaches and modalities depending on each individual and their personalized treatment goals. I tend to gravitate towards elements of person-centered, psychodynamic, CBT, ERP, and strength-based therapy. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR to support clients in addressing trauma and stress-related issues. With empathy, authenticity, and humor, I strive to empower my clients towards their goals.
I believe each individual is the expert of their own experiences and therefore, I take on a collaborative and individualized approach in therapy together. In doing so, I like to utilize various approaches and modalities depending on each individual and their personalized treatment goals. I tend to gravitate towards elements of person-centered, psychodynamic, CBT, ERP, and strength-based therapy. Additionally, I am trained in EMDR to support clients in addressing trauma and stress-related issues. With empathy, authenticity, and humor, I strive to empower my clients towards their goals.
(626) 603-8128 View (626) 603-8128
Photo of Daniela Ojeda - Triana Individual and Family Therapy-Daniela Ojeda, LMFT , Marriage & Family Therapist
Triana Individual and Family Therapy-Daniela Ojeda
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
Through Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) I facilitate reprocessing and resolution of traumatic and adverse experiences, resulting in improved emotional regulation and symptoms management.
As a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I am deeply committed to guiding my clients through their healing journeys. Specializing in person-centered and holistic therapeutic approaches, I prioritize emotional well-being and personal growth for individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. With a profound passion for fostering self-awareness and empowerment, I strive to create safe and nurturing environments where all clients feel valued for their unique experiences and identities.
Through Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) I facilitate reprocessing and resolution of traumatic and adverse experiences, resulting in improved emotional regulation and symptoms management.
As a dedicated Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), I am deeply committed to guiding my clients through their healing journeys. Specializing in person-centered and holistic therapeutic approaches, I prioritize emotional well-being and personal growth for individuals, couples, and families from diverse backgrounds. With a profound passion for fostering self-awareness and empowerment, I strive to create safe and nurturing environments where all clients feel valued for their unique experiences and identities.
(626) 702-2164 View (626) 702-2164
Photo of Tiffany Kwong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tiffany Kwong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016  (Online Only)
My training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) equips me with specialized skills to help you process and heal from traumatic experiences.
If you're struggling to move past the intense reactions triggered by stress or trauma, you're not alone. These survival responses can often feel like an unshakable part of your life, interfering with your ability to find peace and healing.
My training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) equips me with specialized skills to help you process and heal from traumatic experiences.
If you're struggling to move past the intense reactions triggered by stress or trauma, you're not alone. These survival responses can often feel like an unshakable part of your life, interfering with your ability to find peace and healing.
(626) 702-3042 View (626) 702-3042
Photo of Pei Chai - Relationships For Better, MSMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Relationships For Better
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
I also have been trained in EMDR therapy which focuses on trauma recovery.
Isn't it true that our relationships are what life is all about? When we feel isolated from ourselves and loved ones, distance and pain can follow. Growth often comes through pain, but feeling stuck can seem hopeless. My goal is to support you through healing, restoring life in your relationship with yourself and others. Using a holistic approach to therapy, we’ll address underlying emotions and needs, helping you reconnect with yourself and others as we journey together toward healing.
I also have been trained in EMDR therapy which focuses on trauma recovery.
Isn't it true that our relationships are what life is all about? When we feel isolated from ourselves and loved ones, distance and pain can follow. Growth often comes through pain, but feeling stuck can seem hopeless. My goal is to support you through healing, restoring life in your relationship with yourself and others. Using a holistic approach to therapy, we’ll address underlying emotions and needs, helping you reconnect with yourself and others as we journey together toward healing.
(626) 869-2713 View (626) 869-2713
Photo of David C Herzog, PsyD, MFA, Psychologist
David C Herzog
Psychologist, PsyD, MFA
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016  (Online Only)
I have experience working with a wide range of concerns including depression,anxiety, OCD, LGBT issues, professional and personal identity, transition, relationship issues, grief and trauma ( EMDR certified).
I use a relational style that integrates Western psychology, somatic psychotherapy and Eastern psychological approaches in honoring my patients' experience, their strengths as well as their potential for growth. I am also a certified in Vinyasa and Kundalini yoga and incorporate yogic meditation and breath work. I see the therapy as a collaborative relationship in which I invite patients to actively engage in the process of change. I also provide life coaching in helping patients find greater success in the lives both personally and professionally. I offer Telehealth sessions only as my primary residence is currently in Seattle.
I have experience working with a wide range of concerns including depression,anxiety, OCD, LGBT issues, professional and personal identity, transition, relationship issues, grief and trauma ( EMDR certified).
I use a relational style that integrates Western psychology, somatic psychotherapy and Eastern psychological approaches in honoring my patients' experience, their strengths as well as their potential for growth. I am also a certified in Vinyasa and Kundalini yoga and incorporate yogic meditation and breath work. I see the therapy as a collaborative relationship in which I invite patients to actively engage in the process of change. I also provide life coaching in helping patients find greater success in the lives both personally and professionally. I offer Telehealth sessions only as my primary residence is currently in Seattle.
(818) 412-9505 View (818) 412-9505
Photo of Kathryn Scott, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kathryn Scott
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
Kathy Scott has a warmth and vitality, which foster a sense of trust and safety, and she has an especially strong ability to connect with and understand her clients. Her training in EMDR and psychoanalytic therapy effectively support her work-- helping heal abuse and trauma of all kinds. Because of her own personal experience, she has compassion and a heart for women who are widowed and experiencing deep losses. As a result, Kathy works well with women in transition, divorce, parenting issues, single-parenting, step-parenting, blended families, "empty nest" difficulties, and parent-caregiver concerns.
Kathy Scott has a warmth and vitality, which foster a sense of trust and safety, and she has an especially strong ability to connect with and understand her clients. Her training in EMDR and psychoanalytic therapy effectively support her work-- helping heal abuse and trauma of all kinds. Because of her own personal experience, she has compassion and a heart for women who are widowed and experiencing deep losses. As a result, Kathy works well with women in transition, divorce, parenting issues, single-parenting, step-parenting, blended families, "empty nest" difficulties, and parent-caregiver concerns.
(626) 486-9790 View (626) 486-9790
Photo of Carol Crabson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Crabson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
Hello, my name is Carol Crabson. I received my bachelor's degree in Humanistic Psychology from the University of Redlands and went on to receive my master's degree in social work from the University of California Los Angeles. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am based in Southern California working statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and youth who have anxiety, depression and other mental health issues due to experiencing trauma in their lives by using Cognitive Behavioral techniques, Internal Family Systems, EMDR and Strength based approaches.
Hello, my name is Carol Crabson. I received my bachelor's degree in Humanistic Psychology from the University of Redlands and went on to receive my master's degree in social work from the University of California Los Angeles. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and am based in Southern California working statewide via telehealth. I work with adults and youth who have anxiety, depression and other mental health issues due to experiencing trauma in their lives by using Cognitive Behavioral techniques, Internal Family Systems, EMDR and Strength based approaches.
(562) 526-6012 View (562) 526-6012
Photo of Dr. Keith Lamont Marshall - Dedicato Treatment Center (Intensive Outpatient) , PsyD, MHD, CATC-V, SUDCC, LAADC, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Dedicato Treatment Center (Intensive Outpatient)
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, PsyD, MHD, CATC-V, SUDCC, LAADC
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
Our Treatment consist of a Full Bio-Psycho Social Assessment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Relapse Prevention, Drug and Alcohol Treatment, Psychoeducation, Physical Education Individual and Group Psychotherapy, Family Group, Co-Occurring Mental Disorders, 12 Step Social Support Development.
Our Mission At Dedicato Outpatient Services is to provide responsible and comprehensive Intensive Substance Abuse Treatment that will enhance our patient’s ability to achieve optimal mental health and recovery from chemical dependency. We are dedicated to treat the whole person as well as the primary problem. We treat every patient, family, friend, and staff, with dignity and respect. We are licensed by the California Department of Health Care Services and accredited by the Joint Commission. We are among only 6% in the United States with this highest level of accreditation.
Our Treatment consist of a Full Bio-Psycho Social Assessment, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Relapse Prevention, Drug and Alcohol Treatment, Psychoeducation, Physical Education Individual and Group Psychotherapy, Family Group, Co-Occurring Mental Disorders, 12 Step Social Support Development.
Our Mission At Dedicato Outpatient Services is to provide responsible and comprehensive Intensive Substance Abuse Treatment that will enhance our patient’s ability to achieve optimal mental health and recovery from chemical dependency. We are dedicated to treat the whole person as well as the primary problem. We treat every patient, family, friend, and staff, with dignity and respect. We are licensed by the California Department of Health Care Services and accredited by the Joint Commission. We are among only 6% in the United States with this highest level of accreditation.
(626) 322-2931 View (626) 322-2931
Photo of Pam Olender, MS, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Pam Olender
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MS, AMFT
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
With talk therapy, I utilize Somatic Experiencing and EMDR modalities.
You deserve to be heard, understood, and supported. Therapy can provide that support. A trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship is essential in facilitating healing, growth, and a clearer understanding of your authentic self. Our therapeutic conversations are an invitatation to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns, gaining insight into yourself and your circumstances. This process of self-discovery paves the way for increased self-confidence, better relationships, and a greater sense of your purpose in life.
With talk therapy, I utilize Somatic Experiencing and EMDR modalities.
You deserve to be heard, understood, and supported. Therapy can provide that support. A trusting and collaborative therapeutic relationship is essential in facilitating healing, growth, and a clearer understanding of your authentic self. Our therapeutic conversations are an invitatation to explore your thoughts, feelings, and behavioral patterns, gaining insight into yourself and your circumstances. This process of self-discovery paves the way for increased self-confidence, better relationships, and a greater sense of your purpose in life.
(626) 605-6876 View (626) 605-6876
Photo of Michele Wilkens, PsyD, Psychologist
Michele Wilkens
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
My services include use of EMDR, relational (focus on interpersonal relations), and somatic (body oriented; connection mind and body) practices that provide positive results.
We need support at different times and for various reasons. Right now, may be that time for you. Do you have feelings that are overwhelming or experience lack of feeling, and doing things is becoming more difficult? You may have feelings that are painful, intolerable, empty, lost, or feel just stuck. Do you ever wonder what would it be like to feel ok? Imagine feeling some relief, calmness, and peace. How essential is it to better understand and feel good about you? It may not be easy, but we can work together for you to feel better and content with your life.
My services include use of EMDR, relational (focus on interpersonal relations), and somatic (body oriented; connection mind and body) practices that provide positive results.
We need support at different times and for various reasons. Right now, may be that time for you. Do you have feelings that are overwhelming or experience lack of feeling, and doing things is becoming more difficult? You may have feelings that are painful, intolerable, empty, lost, or feel just stuck. Do you ever wonder what would it be like to feel ok? Imagine feeling some relief, calmness, and peace. How essential is it to better understand and feel good about you? It may not be easy, but we can work together for you to feel better and content with your life.
(323) 312-5494 View (323) 312-5494
Photo of Isaac Kim, MA, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Isaac Kim
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016  (Online Only)
Rooted in client-centered therapy, my practice is enhanced with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a powerful approach that helps clients process and heal from trauma and anxiety effectively.
As a second-generation Korean American, I bring a culturally-sensitive perspective to my practice, offering an authentic understanding of the nuanced challenges faced by Asian American communities. I specialize in addressing anxiety, depression, and intergenerational trauma, with a strong emphasis on building emotional safety and resilience.
Rooted in client-centered therapy, my practice is enhanced with EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), a powerful approach that helps clients process and heal from trauma and anxiety effectively.
As a second-generation Korean American, I bring a culturally-sensitive perspective to my practice, offering an authentic understanding of the nuanced challenges faced by Asian American communities. I specialize in addressing anxiety, depression, and intergenerational trauma, with a strong emphasis on building emotional safety and resilience.
(626) 621-2354 View (626) 621-2354
Photo of Theresa Lopez, MS, LMFT, CCTP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Theresa Lopez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting.
Searching for a therapist is a vulnerable decision. Often, we don’t know what causes feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger, & disconnection from our lives & our loved ones. My therapeutic style is grounded in process-based Gestalt therapy, with a focus on creating an emotionally safe environment to decrease internal shame & explore life concerns/struggles. My specialties include trauma, PTSD, & abuse (i.e., emotional, parental, religious, narcissistic, toxic relationships/marriages, high-control environments & betrayal). I work with attachment injuries, perfectionism, codependency, self-esteem, identity exploration & boundary setting.
I am trained in EMDR and Brainspotting.
Searching for a therapist is a vulnerable decision. Often, we don’t know what causes feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger, & disconnection from our lives & our loved ones. My therapeutic style is grounded in process-based Gestalt therapy, with a focus on creating an emotionally safe environment to decrease internal shame & explore life concerns/struggles. My specialties include trauma, PTSD, & abuse (i.e., emotional, parental, religious, narcissistic, toxic relationships/marriages, high-control environments & betrayal). I work with attachment injuries, perfectionism, codependency, self-esteem, identity exploration & boundary setting.
(909) 552-8496 View (909) 552-8496
Photo of Jennifer Singler, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennifer Singler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
My specialty areas include couples therapy (PACT, EFT), attachment work, parenting, trauma ( EMDR, TFCBT), and existential issues.
Are you seeking to learn healthier ways to be in relationship than what you learned from your family? Do you need to make sense of your story & heal from trauma? Are you tired of stress driving you, compromising your best self? I enjoy partnering with adult children of emotionally immature parents, along with anyone seeking to develop more satisfying and meaningful relationships with others and/or with yourself. I have worked extensively with parents, children, & couples to create more secure relationships. By exploring your experiences in relationships, we can help you create new relationship possibilities, too.
My specialty areas include couples therapy (PACT, EFT), attachment work, parenting, trauma ( EMDR, TFCBT), and existential issues.
Are you seeking to learn healthier ways to be in relationship than what you learned from your family? Do you need to make sense of your story & heal from trauma? Are you tired of stress driving you, compromising your best self? I enjoy partnering with adult children of emotionally immature parents, along with anyone seeking to develop more satisfying and meaningful relationships with others and/or with yourself. I have worked extensively with parents, children, & couples to create more secure relationships. By exploring your experiences in relationships, we can help you create new relationship possibilities, too.
(626) 329-4368 View (626) 329-4368
Photo of Ana L. Aguilar, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ana L. Aguilar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016
Certified in EMDR, CBT, TF-CBT, CPP, and trained in Somatic Trauma Healing practices.
Are you feeling hopeless, lonely, or helpless? Algun dia te has sentido, agustiado o agobiado por las responsabilidades de esta vida? Let me help you! Dejame ayudarte! Collaboratively, in therapy, I will help you embark in your healing journey. You are not alone! NO estas solo. Juntos caminaremos hacia tu total restauracion y sanidad emocional, fisica, y mental, e espiritual. Together we will walk through the valleys and shadows into the paths of restoration, healing and light.
Certified in EMDR, CBT, TF-CBT, CPP, and trained in Somatic Trauma Healing practices.
Are you feeling hopeless, lonely, or helpless? Algun dia te has sentido, agustiado o agobiado por las responsabilidades de esta vida? Let me help you! Dejame ayudarte! Collaboratively, in therapy, I will help you embark in your healing journey. You are not alone! NO estas solo. Juntos caminaremos hacia tu total restauracion y sanidad emocional, fisica, y mental, e espiritual. Together we will walk through the valleys and shadows into the paths of restoration, healing and light.
(323) 693-9884 View (323) 693-9884
Photo of Katie (Caitlin) Staveley, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Katie (Caitlin) Staveley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
Waitlist for new clients
Finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process, but reaching out for help is a courageous first step. I'm so glad you're here. With over 10 years of experience as a therapist, I am deeply committed to guiding individuals on their path towards emotional well-being and personal growth. My hope for you is to live each day with a sense of peace, despite the hardships life has thrown your way.
Finding a therapist can be an overwhelming process, but reaching out for help is a courageous first step. I'm so glad you're here. With over 10 years of experience as a therapist, I am deeply committed to guiding individuals on their path towards emotional well-being and personal growth. My hope for you is to live each day with a sense of peace, despite the hardships life has thrown your way.
(626) 415-0387 View (626) 415-0387
Photo of Trisha Long, MSMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Trisha Long
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MSMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Monrovia, CA 91016
Welcome! I approach therapy with compassion, collaboration, and curiosity. I enjoy working with couples striving to strengthen their relationships, helping them build deeper connections and improve communication. I support individuals seeking greater self-understanding to achieve more joy and flourishing. Many clients are navigating life transitions or dealing with anxiety and depression, seeking clarity and peace. I also help those healing from trauma, exploring the mind-body connection and its relation to chronic pain, and offer compassionate guidance to those facing infertility challenges.
Welcome! I approach therapy with compassion, collaboration, and curiosity. I enjoy working with couples striving to strengthen their relationships, helping them build deeper connections and improve communication. I support individuals seeking greater self-understanding to achieve more joy and flourishing. Many clients are navigating life transitions or dealing with anxiety and depression, seeking clarity and peace. I also help those healing from trauma, exploring the mind-body connection and its relation to chronic pain, and offer compassionate guidance to those facing infertility challenges.
(626) 635-2506 View (626) 635-2506
Photo of Sameh Abdelmalak, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Sameh Abdelmalak
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Monrovia, CA 91016  (Online Only)
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with a diverse population, offering services to adults, children, couples, and families of different ethnic backgrounds, religions, spiritual beliefs, and sexual orientations. The anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, and relational distress can be very impending to the quality of one's life. Though I am trained in Trauma Focus CBT, Gottman method for couples, DBT, Attachment therapy, and motivational interviewing, if you have a hard time remembering when you felt good or feel like you are alone in your struggle, I would be glad to come alongside you and offer my counseling service.
As a Marriage and Family Therapist, I work with a diverse population, offering services to adults, children, couples, and families of different ethnic backgrounds, religions, spiritual beliefs, and sexual orientations. The anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, and relational distress can be very impending to the quality of one's life. Though I am trained in Trauma Focus CBT, Gottman method for couples, DBT, Attachment therapy, and motivational interviewing, if you have a hard time remembering when you felt good or feel like you are alone in your struggle, I would be glad to come alongside you and offer my counseling service.
(626) 610-4542 View (626) 610-4542
1
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.