EMDR Therapists in 93420

Photo of Elizabeth Long, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Elizabeth Long
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I use EMDR and attachment therapy to help you heal quickly, deeply.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in helping clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Together, we will work towards developing coping strategies, improving communication skills, and fostering self-awareness. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, or your family, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and live a more fulfilling life. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
I use EMDR and attachment therapy to help you heal quickly, deeply.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in helping clients struggling with anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship issues. Together, we will work towards developing coping strategies, improving communication skills, and fostering self-awareness. Whether you are seeking therapy for yourself, your relationship, or your family, I am dedicated to helping you achieve your goals and live a more fulfilling life. Let's embark on this transformative journey together.
(805) 618-2871 View (805) 618-2871
Photo of Andrea Bey, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Andrea Bey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420  (Online Only)
I use EMDR therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed CBT, and other evidence-based approaches to help my clients calm their nervous systems, reduce negative self-talk, develop tools to manage stress, and learn to communicate with others most effectively.
You're a bright, capable woman, but anxiety, stress, and trauma from your past weigh heavily on you. On the tough days it feels like an uphill battle against your own thoughts. Your constant efforts to please others often leave you neglecting your own health and well-being. You desperately want to drop the mask and be yourself, but you're terrified that others will reject you if they truly know you. Part of you worries that you'll be held back by anxiety and your past forever, while another part of you believes that relief and a better life are possible. You know that something needs to change, but you're not sure where to start.
I use EMDR therapy, mindfulness, trauma-informed CBT, and other evidence-based approaches to help my clients calm their nervous systems, reduce negative self-talk, develop tools to manage stress, and learn to communicate with others most effectively.
You're a bright, capable woman, but anxiety, stress, and trauma from your past weigh heavily on you. On the tough days it feels like an uphill battle against your own thoughts. Your constant efforts to please others often leave you neglecting your own health and well-being. You desperately want to drop the mask and be yourself, but you're terrified that others will reject you if they truly know you. Part of you worries that you'll be held back by anxiety and your past forever, while another part of you believes that relief and a better life are possible. You know that something needs to change, but you're not sure where to start.
(805) 360-3754 View (805) 360-3754
Photo of Christina Murphy, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Christina Murphy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I am a Certified Grief Informed Professional and trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing).
Are you stressed out, tired, unmotivated, restless, unable to control your worry, sad, overwhelmed, irritable, angry, or lonely? You do not have to suffer in silence alone. I am here to listen without judgment. Are you struggling with unhealthy relationships, boundaries, or difficulty saying no or asking for help? I am here to help you better manage your relationships, set boundaries, and learn to ask for what you need/want/desire most. Are you your own worst enemy? I am here to help you improve your self-worth, and self-talk by challenging the inner, critical voice with a more compassionate voice.
I am a Certified Grief Informed Professional and trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization reprocessing).
Are you stressed out, tired, unmotivated, restless, unable to control your worry, sad, overwhelmed, irritable, angry, or lonely? You do not have to suffer in silence alone. I am here to listen without judgment. Are you struggling with unhealthy relationships, boundaries, or difficulty saying no or asking for help? I am here to help you better manage your relationships, set boundaries, and learn to ask for what you need/want/desire most. Are you your own worst enemy? I am here to help you improve your self-worth, and self-talk by challenging the inner, critical voice with a more compassionate voice.
(805) 515-3993 View (805) 515-3993
Photo of Elisabeth C Box, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Elisabeth C Box
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Elisabeth uses a gentle, empathetic approach to render modalities including EMDR, EFT, Trauma Focused CBT, Strength Based, and Emotionally Focused treatment approaches.
Are you struggling with sadness or anxiety? Navigating life's ups and downs is difficult for everyone and, often, it is nice to have an unbiased ear to talk to or get objective advice from. Elisabeth especially enjoys helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression because they are common ailments that respond well to therapy. Elisabeth uses evidenced-based practices which have been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate the physical discomfort of anxiety, soothe the emotional impact of depression and heal traumatic wounds. We can transform our stumbling blocks into stepping stones, one day at a time!
Elisabeth uses a gentle, empathetic approach to render modalities including EMDR, EFT, Trauma Focused CBT, Strength Based, and Emotionally Focused treatment approaches.
Are you struggling with sadness or anxiety? Navigating life's ups and downs is difficult for everyone and, often, it is nice to have an unbiased ear to talk to or get objective advice from. Elisabeth especially enjoys helping people who are struggling with anxiety and depression because they are common ailments that respond well to therapy. Elisabeth uses evidenced-based practices which have been clinically proven to reduce or eliminate the physical discomfort of anxiety, soothe the emotional impact of depression and heal traumatic wounds. We can transform our stumbling blocks into stepping stones, one day at a time!
(805) 874-6787 View (805) 874-6787
Photo of Dr. Linnea C Hagens, Psychological Associate in 93420, CA
Dr. Linnea C Hagens
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I am a trained EMDR therapist for patients with trauma (accidents, abuse, grief and loss) and specialize in Art Therapy where CBT is often used through art therapy directives as the art acts as an alternative language, and helps people of all ages explore emotions.
My name is Dr. Linnea Hagens, a clinical psychological associate for Dr. Tammy Dobbs. I provide personalized therapy aimed to relieve emotional distress and develop goals of improving some aspects of your life. Therapy sessions include examining and gaining insight into life choices and difficulties faced.
I am a trained EMDR therapist for patients with trauma (accidents, abuse, grief and loss) and specialize in Art Therapy where CBT is often used through art therapy directives as the art acts as an alternative language, and helps people of all ages explore emotions.
My name is Dr. Linnea Hagens, a clinical psychological associate for Dr. Tammy Dobbs. I provide personalized therapy aimed to relieve emotional distress and develop goals of improving some aspects of your life. Therapy sessions include examining and gaining insight into life choices and difficulties faced.
(805) 386-9145 View (805) 386-9145
Photo of Denise Bila Seastrunk in 93420, CA
Denise Bila Seastrunk
RN, CNS, PhD, CTP
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I am also a certified trauma specialist with certification in EMDR therapy.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
I am also a certified trauma specialist with certification in EMDR therapy.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
(805) 244-6785 View (805) 244-6785
Photo of Pamela Kremza Andersen, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Pamela Kremza Andersen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Untreated emotional pain can lead to destructive behaviors, ruin relationships, and make life feel rather miserable. You are here to feel better and I can help. I use EMDR for most all of my clients. This method of therapy clears away painful, repeating thoughts and memories. EMDR is a "feel good" therapy as we transform the problems, abuse, self hate or traumatic events into the past. We can significantly reduce anxiety, build confidence, improve body image, and so much more! My goal for you is to launch a new strength, enjoy happy relationships, feel love and appreciate yourself. It is possible to get the results you desire.
Untreated emotional pain can lead to destructive behaviors, ruin relationships, and make life feel rather miserable. You are here to feel better and I can help. I use EMDR for most all of my clients. This method of therapy clears away painful, repeating thoughts and memories. EMDR is a "feel good" therapy as we transform the problems, abuse, self hate or traumatic events into the past. We can significantly reduce anxiety, build confidence, improve body image, and so much more! My goal for you is to launch a new strength, enjoy happy relationships, feel love and appreciate yourself. It is possible to get the results you desire.
(805) 243-2148 View (805) 243-2148
Photo of Jennifer M Blomfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Jennifer M Blomfield
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Jennifer has extensive training in art and play therapy and is currently receiving additional training and certification in EMDR (Eye movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
"Therapy can be a place where the wonder and awe of self discovery can culminate in personal clarity, empowerment and promote a richer more fulfilling life. Living with past and present wounds, dealing with depression, anxiety, anger or addictions, or working through difficult relationships and life transitions, our lives may seem out of control when our emotions and our thinking are out of balance. As your counselor I will help you by gently guiding you in finding that balance by creating a safe and supportive environment as you develop skills to regain your mentally healthy life."
Jennifer has extensive training in art and play therapy and is currently receiving additional training and certification in EMDR (Eye movement Desensitization and Reprocessing).
"Therapy can be a place where the wonder and awe of self discovery can culminate in personal clarity, empowerment and promote a richer more fulfilling life. Living with past and present wounds, dealing with depression, anxiety, anger or addictions, or working through difficult relationships and life transitions, our lives may seem out of control when our emotions and our thinking are out of balance. As your counselor I will help you by gently guiding you in finding that balance by creating a safe and supportive environment as you develop skills to regain your mentally healthy life."
(805) 706-8114 View (805) 706-8114
Photo of Lori Maggelet Eister, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Lori Maggelet Eister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Training in EMDR, MI and Compassionate Inquiry.
Hello! My name is Lori and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I have worked in the counseling profession for the past 20 or so years.
Training in EMDR, MI and Compassionate Inquiry.
Hello! My name is Lori and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I have worked in the counseling profession for the past 20 or so years.
(805) 669-9308 View (805) 669-9308
Photo of Haley Beckwith, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Haley Beckwith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420  (Online Only)
I am Haley Beckwith, a licensed therapist and EMDRIA certified EMDR clinician serving both Santa Barbara, CA & Bend, OR. I specialize in working with young adults and adult trauma. People seek therapy for a number of reasons, simply put, therapy is often initiated because something in our lives is not working and we want to feel better. Therapy can help you better understand yourself, heal areas that cause pain, and help you find the self direction needed to live you best, most fulfilled life. I would be honored to guide you on your journey to healing, personal growth and happiness. Accepting OR clients starting mid February.
I am Haley Beckwith, a licensed therapist and EMDRIA certified EMDR clinician serving both Santa Barbara, CA & Bend, OR. I specialize in working with young adults and adult trauma. People seek therapy for a number of reasons, simply put, therapy is often initiated because something in our lives is not working and we want to feel better. Therapy can help you better understand yourself, heal areas that cause pain, and help you find the self direction needed to live you best, most fulfilled life. I would be honored to guide you on your journey to healing, personal growth and happiness. Accepting OR clients starting mid February.
(619) 430-2507 View (619) 430-2507
Photo of Leslie Barton, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Leslie Barton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) which is a powerful tool when it fits the need.
"I believe that each person has unlimited potential within themself! It is my role to assist a person in finding the answers to the dilemnas' they may be facing. Often someone is experiencing a high level of stress through a current life circumstance that brings up feelings or grief from the past. When this happens, part of the therapy process is to deal with the "unfinished business" to access more energy to bring to the present. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I focus on relationship issues including patterns of communication that can improve to develop more satisfying relationships too.
I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) which is a powerful tool when it fits the need.
"I believe that each person has unlimited potential within themself! It is my role to assist a person in finding the answers to the dilemnas' they may be facing. Often someone is experiencing a high level of stress through a current life circumstance that brings up feelings or grief from the past. When this happens, part of the therapy process is to deal with the "unfinished business" to access more energy to bring to the present. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I focus on relationship issues including patterns of communication that can improve to develop more satisfying relationships too.
(805) 623-4087 View (805) 623-4087
Photo of Leonard Manzella, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93420, CA
Leonard Manzella
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
It am particularly gratified to be offering EMDR for individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress.
Anxiety, Depression and Substance Abuse have reached epidemic proportions in today's world. They have become a way of life for many, causing undue anguish and pain, and jeopardizing the well-being of millions as well as the significant relationships in their lives. For over 25 years I have been helping people find a way back to themselves and on a path to living healthier and happier lives. It would be an honor to help you.
It am particularly gratified to be offering EMDR for individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress.
Anxiety, Depression and Substance Abuse have reached epidemic proportions in today's world. They have become a way of life for many, causing undue anguish and pain, and jeopardizing the well-being of millions as well as the significant relationships in their lives. For over 25 years I have been helping people find a way back to themselves and on a path to living healthier and happier lives. It would be an honor to help you.
(805) 214-6619 View (805) 214-6619
Photo of Melissa Wheelock, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Melissa Wheelock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
If you find yourself on this site looking for a therapist, then the answer is yes! It is the right time for you to focus on healing for yourself! I specialize in working with people who are looking for help healing anxiety, depression, body image and relationship challenges. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself, and my background in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness and the well known trauma treatment called EMDR gives me a unique perspective about the challenges all humans face. I offer online and in person therapy and I can't wait to hear from you!
If you find yourself on this site looking for a therapist, then the answer is yes! It is the right time for you to focus on healing for yourself! I specialize in working with people who are looking for help healing anxiety, depression, body image and relationship challenges. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself, and my background in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness and the well known trauma treatment called EMDR gives me a unique perspective about the challenges all humans face. I offer online and in person therapy and I can't wait to hear from you!
(805) 398-6637 View (805) 398-6637
Photo of Victoria Jane Fisher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93420, CA
Victoria Jane Fisher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I am licensed therapist with over 15 years of extensive experience and am trained in EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy.
My therapeutic approach prioritizes client-centered care, emphasizing strengths and humanistic principles to empower individuals to recognize their capacity for personal growth. I believe in the importance and power of the therapeutic relationship and how feeling heard, validated and supported can help towards one’s personal growth. I take an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing therapeutic techniques and theories based on each individual and their unique needs. I specialize in working with Trauma, PTSD, mood disorders and children. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy.
I am licensed therapist with over 15 years of extensive experience and am trained in EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy.
My therapeutic approach prioritizes client-centered care, emphasizing strengths and humanistic principles to empower individuals to recognize their capacity for personal growth. I believe in the importance and power of the therapeutic relationship and how feeling heard, validated and supported can help towards one’s personal growth. I take an eclectic approach to therapy, utilizing therapeutic techniques and theories based on each individual and their unique needs. I specialize in working with Trauma, PTSD, mood disorders and children. I am trained in EMDR, CBT, Play Therapy, Art Therapy and Sand Tray Therapy.
(805) 874-5344 View (805) 874-5344
Photo of Debra Kambourian, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Debra Kambourian
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Through Emotionally Focused Therapy and/or EMDR, we create a predictable and applicable framework of what happens inside and out of your body as these stressful events occur.
Do you ever find yourself asking, "Why can't I just get my life together, get along with people like everyone else?" "Am I the crazy one?" How about "I'm tired of feeling misunderstood, walked all over, like I can't do anything right." It's easy to feel stuck and alone when struggling in life and relationships, as if you're "too emotional" and destined for a lonely and shameful life. Many opinions about what you're doing wrong and recommendations of how to fix discourage you, leaving you feeling even more flawed and confused than before. Most importantly, do you find yourself feeling sad and terrified that nobody will EVER get you?
Through Emotionally Focused Therapy and/or EMDR, we create a predictable and applicable framework of what happens inside and out of your body as these stressful events occur.
Do you ever find yourself asking, "Why can't I just get my life together, get along with people like everyone else?" "Am I the crazy one?" How about "I'm tired of feeling misunderstood, walked all over, like I can't do anything right." It's easy to feel stuck and alone when struggling in life and relationships, as if you're "too emotional" and destined for a lonely and shameful life. Many opinions about what you're doing wrong and recommendations of how to fix discourage you, leaving you feeling even more flawed and confused than before. Most importantly, do you find yourself feeling sad and terrified that nobody will EVER get you?
(805) 316-7283 View (805) 316-7283
Photo of Breezy Simpson, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Breezy Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I offer a compassionate approach to help individuals overcome the challenges of depression, heal from trauma, and navigate life transitions. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR, a highly effective method of therapy proven to help individuals process and heal from trauma and distressing life events.
I offer a compassionate approach to help individuals overcome the challenges of depression, heal from trauma, and navigate life transitions. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR, a highly effective method of therapy proven to help individuals process and heal from trauma and distressing life events.
(805) 210-8754 View (805) 210-8754
Photo of Josie Traub, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Josie Traub
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
My passion for improving the lives of others has extended to extensive EMDR training, which is the leading evidenced based treatment for individuals who have experienced traumatic events.
Often times there are aspects of ourselves that we ignore, or push away to avoid experiencing pain or emotions that can feel unbearable. Pushing away parts of ourselves has an impact on our ability to connect with who we are as a whole person. My approach in therapy involves looking at all of these parts within our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual zones and examining the way they interact with one another. I work in partnership with my clients to support them in discovering their unique path, what's important to them and the ability to access their truest self.
My passion for improving the lives of others has extended to extensive EMDR training, which is the leading evidenced based treatment for individuals who have experienced traumatic events.
Often times there are aspects of ourselves that we ignore, or push away to avoid experiencing pain or emotions that can feel unbearable. Pushing away parts of ourselves has an impact on our ability to connect with who we are as a whole person. My approach in therapy involves looking at all of these parts within our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual zones and examining the way they interact with one another. I work in partnership with my clients to support them in discovering their unique path, what's important to them and the ability to access their truest self.
(805) 900-4201 View (805) 900-4201
Photo of Ronald D Uggla, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Ronald D Uggla
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420  (Online Only)
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and life events begin to impact your joy, fulfillment; your ability to do the things you need to do. You may be struggling with work, engaging in meaningful activities, parenting effectively, or spending quality time with family and friends. Seeking out help and support through therapy can be a great way to help you find your way back to self-confidence, energy, and the motivation to get back to living a happy, fulfilling life.
Sometimes life can feel overwhelming and life events begin to impact your joy, fulfillment; your ability to do the things you need to do. You may be struggling with work, engaging in meaningful activities, parenting effectively, or spending quality time with family and friends. Seeking out help and support through therapy can be a great way to help you find your way back to self-confidence, energy, and the motivation to get back to living a happy, fulfilling life.
(805) 800-8932 View (805) 800-8932
Photo of Holly Whall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 93420, CA
Holly Whall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MPH
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Have you outgrown some aspect of your current life and either longing for change, or had change hit you over the head? When you come to a crossroads, there is an invitation to step into a new stage of development which is uncertain, unfamiliar and feels risky. You may have a hard time trusting yourself to make the "right" decisions, and feelings of anxiety, grief, sadness and self-doubt may remind you of painful, early life experiences you've tried to forget. Although challenging, life transitions present a huge opportunity for healing and growth by waking us up out of our trance, and begging us to explore what matters most.
Have you outgrown some aspect of your current life and either longing for change, or had change hit you over the head? When you come to a crossroads, there is an invitation to step into a new stage of development which is uncertain, unfamiliar and feels risky. You may have a hard time trusting yourself to make the "right" decisions, and feelings of anxiety, grief, sadness and self-doubt may remind you of painful, early life experiences you've tried to forget. Although challenging, life transitions present a huge opportunity for healing and growth by waking us up out of our trance, and begging us to explore what matters most.
(805) 209-0206 View (805) 209-0206
Photo of Katty (Coffron) Richardson, PhD, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist in 93420, CA
Katty (Coffron) Richardson, PhD, LMFT, LPCC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Waitlist for new clients
Both life and relationships can be challenging and it is easy to feel confused or hopeless as to how to make things better. You may be struggling with individual issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Or possibly you are dealing with relationship troubles. You may be longing for love and instead feeling disconnected, alone, and hurt. There are answers and options! I have invested in mastering well-researched, scientifically-proven approaches to individual/couples counseling that will help you get back on track! You can call or text me at 805-975-8399. I offer Teletherapy and I can bill any PPO plan for you.
Both life and relationships can be challenging and it is easy to feel confused or hopeless as to how to make things better. You may be struggling with individual issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Or possibly you are dealing with relationship troubles. You may be longing for love and instead feeling disconnected, alone, and hurt. There are answers and options! I have invested in mastering well-researched, scientifically-proven approaches to individual/couples counseling that will help you get back on track! You can call or text me at 805-975-8399. I offer Teletherapy and I can bill any PPO plan for you.
(805) 975-8399 View (805) 975-8399
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.