EMDR Therapists in 94070

Photo of Belén Mora-Byers, PsyD, Psychologist
Belén Mora-Byers
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
I am certified in EMDR -Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, one of the treatments of choice to treat trauma and its effects.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of clinical practice. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families on multiple issues from anxiety, depression, difficulty adjusting to transitions, and trauma work, to name a few. I place much emphasis in helping families and individuals develop the series of skills that are necessary for real success - collaboration, flexibility, adaptability, and creativity.
I am certified in EMDR -Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing, one of the treatments of choice to treat trauma and its effects.
I am a clinical psychologist with over 30 years of clinical practice. I have extensive experience working with children, adolescents, adults, and families on multiple issues from anxiety, depression, difficulty adjusting to transitions, and trauma work, to name a few. I place much emphasis in helping families and individuals develop the series of skills that are necessary for real success - collaboration, flexibility, adaptability, and creativity.
(650) 353-3789 View (650) 353-3789
Photo of Jamie Holden, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jamie Holden
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
I am also Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and focus on Internal Family Systems (IFS).
As we evolve through life, we are faced with challenges and new roles that may make us feel inadequate and uncomfortable. It is not uncommon for a person to feel stuck or lost during this time. For the past 25 years, in an educational and therapeutic setting, I have worked along side adults, and couples/families to help create effective ways to tackle such challenges. When we negatively question our self-worth and strengths, it is time to develop productive ways to break old patterns and see through a truthful lenses.
I am also Certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and focus on Internal Family Systems (IFS).
As we evolve through life, we are faced with challenges and new roles that may make us feel inadequate and uncomfortable. It is not uncommon for a person to feel stuck or lost during this time. For the past 25 years, in an educational and therapeutic setting, I have worked along side adults, and couples/families to help create effective ways to tackle such challenges. When we negatively question our self-worth and strengths, it is time to develop productive ways to break old patterns and see through a truthful lenses.
(650) 683-4014 View (650) 683-4014
Photo of Sandra Maness, LPCC
Sandra Maness
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Hello, my name is Sandra Kay Maness. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I primarily use CBT, DBT, and EMDR, yet I am trained in trauma-informed, somatic, and mindfulness methods. I have a multi-modality approach to therapy - driven by the presenting problem, needs, goals, and assessment of the client. My treatment modality is client-centered. Upon client request, I am also well-versed in blending therapeutic methodology with Biblical precepts and content; when determined to provide a therapeutic benefit.
Hello, my name is Sandra Kay Maness. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor. I primarily use CBT, DBT, and EMDR, yet I am trained in trauma-informed, somatic, and mindfulness methods. I have a multi-modality approach to therapy - driven by the presenting problem, needs, goals, and assessment of the client. My treatment modality is client-centered. Upon client request, I am also well-versed in blending therapeutic methodology with Biblical precepts and content; when determined to provide a therapeutic benefit.
(657) 837-3901 View (657) 837-3901
Photo of Merrill Powers, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Merrill Powers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Thanks to my Auburn clients who voted me Best of the Best Therapist in Auburn for two years! EMDR work is focused and fast.
Worried? Anxious? Blue? Feelings can be the result of your situation,or they can be triggered by deeper issues such as attachment, trauma, and unprocessed memories. EMDR "turbocharges" the processing of painful memories. Adults, teens, and children with a history of abuse, trauma, and loss can heal quickly. I also specialize in resolving relationship issues and helping families become stronger. Whether you need help to navigate life transitions or to realize your full potential for emotional growth, therapy is a highly interactive process. Together we develop a plan for treatment involving care and commitment. Feel better!
Thanks to my Auburn clients who voted me Best of the Best Therapist in Auburn for two years! EMDR work is focused and fast.
Worried? Anxious? Blue? Feelings can be the result of your situation,or they can be triggered by deeper issues such as attachment, trauma, and unprocessed memories. EMDR "turbocharges" the processing of painful memories. Adults, teens, and children with a history of abuse, trauma, and loss can heal quickly. I also specialize in resolving relationship issues and helping families become stronger. Whether you need help to navigate life transitions or to realize your full potential for emotional growth, therapy is a highly interactive process. Together we develop a plan for treatment involving care and commitment. Feel better!
(530) 616-8979 View (530) 616-8979
Photo of Gabriela Breton, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gabriela Breton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
I have a warm and compassionate approach focusing on the present moment. I support teens, pre teens, parents, families, individuals and couples deal with their challenges in a safe and supportive environment. I am experienced in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions to name a few. I have extensive training in DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR and Somatic therapy. I am also fluent in Spanish and through my life lived in four different countries, therefore, enjoy working with a population with diverce cultural background.
I have a warm and compassionate approach focusing on the present moment. I support teens, pre teens, parents, families, individuals and couples deal with their challenges in a safe and supportive environment. I am experienced in depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, life transitions to name a few. I have extensive training in DBT, CBT, Mindfulness, EMDR and Somatic therapy. I am also fluent in Spanish and through my life lived in four different countries, therefore, enjoy working with a population with diverce cultural background.
(415) 630-6063 View (415) 630-6063
Photo of Christina Arguello, MA, LMFT, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Christina Arguello
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CHT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070  (Online Only)
I am an EMDR-trained practitioner and Certified Depth Hypnosis Practitioner.
Currently full - Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or a lack of well-being and can't stop thinking about past hurtful events? I provide compassionate mindfulness-based trauma-informed therapy to individuals struggling with family and relationship conflict, grief & loss, the impact of trauma, and stress reduction. I believe that you deserve to be in a therapeutic relationship that is safe, validating, and collaborative. We all deserve this :)
I am an EMDR-trained practitioner and Certified Depth Hypnosis Practitioner.
Currently full - Are you struggling with stress, anxiety, depression, or a lack of well-being and can't stop thinking about past hurtful events? I provide compassionate mindfulness-based trauma-informed therapy to individuals struggling with family and relationship conflict, grief & loss, the impact of trauma, and stress reduction. I believe that you deserve to be in a therapeutic relationship that is safe, validating, and collaborative. We all deserve this :)
(650) 282-3418 View (650) 282-3418
Photo of Diana Moore (Formerly Diana To), MA, MBA, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Diana Moore (Formerly Diana To)
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MBA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
Among these is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy, which has been shown to be an effective way to resolve the impact of past trauma and adverse life experiences.
I found my calling to become a psychotherapist out of a desire to help people live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them resolve the impact of abuse and trauma, as well as problems of depression, anxiety, anger, grief, couples' discord, family conflicts, behavioral issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping my clients who feel lost about their life directions with career exploration and identity development. As a Christian, I also love integrating spirituality with psychological well-being with clients for whom spirituality is relevant.
Among these is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy, which has been shown to be an effective way to resolve the impact of past trauma and adverse life experiences.
I found my calling to become a psychotherapist out of a desire to help people live happier, healthier and more fulfilling lives. I work with individuals, couples and families to help them resolve the impact of abuse and trauma, as well as problems of depression, anxiety, anger, grief, couples' discord, family conflicts, behavioral issues, low self-esteem, and life transitions. I am passionate about helping my clients who feel lost about their life directions with career exploration and identity development. As a Christian, I also love integrating spirituality with psychological well-being with clients for whom spirituality is relevant.
(650) 419-4581 View (650) 419-4581
Photo of Dayna Reader, LMFT, C-EMDR, CHT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dayna Reader
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, C-EMDR, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
If you've been in talk therapy for years & are still having difficulty in your everyday life & relationships, EMDR Therapy can be a powerful tool to help you finally break through old patterns of behaving, thinking and being in the world.
I believe in the innate power of human beings to heal & grow. You don't have to live with the pain of old experiences weighing you down or keeping you stuck; healing is possible & within reach. Are you struggling in relationships or at work? Are you trying to be the person, parent, or partner you want to be, but missing the mark? Do you want to finally learn to accept (& love) yourself fully & unconditionally, & allow others to love you as well? Counseling can help you find freedom & clarity and let go of what's holding you back. I'm certified in EMDR & can offer this modality for healing in addition to traditional talk therapy.
If you've been in talk therapy for years & are still having difficulty in your everyday life & relationships, EMDR Therapy can be a powerful tool to help you finally break through old patterns of behaving, thinking and being in the world.
I believe in the innate power of human beings to heal & grow. You don't have to live with the pain of old experiences weighing you down or keeping you stuck; healing is possible & within reach. Are you struggling in relationships or at work? Are you trying to be the person, parent, or partner you want to be, but missing the mark? Do you want to finally learn to accept (& love) yourself fully & unconditionally, & allow others to love you as well? Counseling can help you find freedom & clarity and let go of what's holding you back. I'm certified in EMDR & can offer this modality for healing in addition to traditional talk therapy.
(650) 529-4996 View (650) 529-4996
Photo of Joann G Riggio - Joann G. Riggio, M.S., MFT, MS, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Joann G. Riggio, M.S., MFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
I work with individuals with trauma, anxiety, & depression using EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and other modalities tailoring my approach to the unique needs of my client.
Many of my clients feel stuck in old patterns of behaviors and communication styles that no longer serve them. As a result, they often feel misunderstood and disconnected from one another. With my years of training and compassionate attunement, I have helped them move out of old negative cycles, gain a deeper trust and connection with one another and have peace and harmony in their relationship. Please visit my website at www.jgriggiomft.com for a more information on how we can work together to help you achieve this too. I also help people with their struggles of anxiety, depression and PTSD. I teach methods for symptom relief.
I work with individuals with trauma, anxiety, & depression using EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and other modalities tailoring my approach to the unique needs of my client.
Many of my clients feel stuck in old patterns of behaviors and communication styles that no longer serve them. As a result, they often feel misunderstood and disconnected from one another. With my years of training and compassionate attunement, I have helped them move out of old negative cycles, gain a deeper trust and connection with one another and have peace and harmony in their relationship. Please visit my website at www.jgriggiomft.com for a more information on how we can work together to help you achieve this too. I also help people with their struggles of anxiety, depression and PTSD. I teach methods for symptom relief.
(650) 262-3298 View (650) 262-3298
Photo of Lisa Marie Hills, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Lisa Marie Hills
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) is an evidence based modality that can help reprocess the traumatic memory.
Are you having trouble concentrating? Is falling asleep and/or staying asleep becoming more difficult? Are you worrying a lot more than usual? Do you have ruminating thoughts that aren't helpful and just won't go away? You might be suffering from acute traumatic distress or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from a traumatic experience recent or many years ago. This could include being a victim of or witness to a natural disaster, chronic verbal, sexual, physical or emotional abuse, an accident, or a major life transition that was upsetting.
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) is an evidence based modality that can help reprocess the traumatic memory.
Are you having trouble concentrating? Is falling asleep and/or staying asleep becoming more difficult? Are you worrying a lot more than usual? Do you have ruminating thoughts that aren't helpful and just won't go away? You might be suffering from acute traumatic distress or Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) from a traumatic experience recent or many years ago. This could include being a victim of or witness to a natural disaster, chronic verbal, sexual, physical or emotional abuse, an accident, or a major life transition that was upsetting.
(650) 881-4616 View (650) 881-4616
Photo of Alexandra Ludovina Krass, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Ludovina Krass
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070  (Online Only)
Some of the ways I do this are through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Post-Induction Therapy (PIT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am honored to work closely with individuals experiencing significant life stressors. Many of my clients are having problems in their romantic relationships or have had a couple’s therapist recommend they seek out a trauma specialist to aid them in working through difficult childhood experiences. I am also privileged to work with individuals experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, and alcoholism. I provide clear, direct, and supportive feedback to those I serve while holding space with deep empathy and compassion.
Some of the ways I do this are through Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), Post-Induction Therapy (PIT), psychodynamic psychotherapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am honored to work closely with individuals experiencing significant life stressors. Many of my clients are having problems in their romantic relationships or have had a couple’s therapist recommend they seek out a trauma specialist to aid them in working through difficult childhood experiences. I am also privileged to work with individuals experiencing PTSD, anxiety, depression, and alcoholism. I provide clear, direct, and supportive feedback to those I serve while holding space with deep empathy and compassion.
(650) 249-7832 View (650) 249-7832
Photo of Ingrid Chung, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ingrid Chung
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
I provide a safe, comfortable space to feel your feelings, confront underlying beliefs about yourself, and learn how to navigate challenging relationships. I use a variety of approaches (CBT, DBT, EMDR, and other somatic-based ones) to help clients safely get in touch with their bodies, identify emotions and establish healthy boundaries to function more effectively at work, school, and family in relationships.
I provide a safe, comfortable space to feel your feelings, confront underlying beliefs about yourself, and learn how to navigate challenging relationships. I use a variety of approaches (CBT, DBT, EMDR, and other somatic-based ones) to help clients safely get in touch with their bodies, identify emotions and establish healthy boundaries to function more effectively at work, school, and family in relationships.
(213) 855-3497 View (213) 855-3497
Photo of Ellen Garfield - Ellen Garfield, LMFT. Specializing in EMDR  , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ellen Garfield, LMFT. Specializing in EMDR
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
IN-PERSON and ZOOM appts available. My style is engaged, curious, warm, direct, and my clients tell me they enjoy my sense of humor. I love working with individuals struggling with conflicts in the family, work, or with friends, those wanting to gain insight into themselves, and individuals in the process of healing from trauma. I have specialized training in EMDR (eye movement desensitization & reprocessing), which is an evidence-based practice shown to be effective in decreasing psychological distress caused by trauma and disturbing life experiences. I also incorporate parts work/IFS. I’m neurodiversity affirming and fat positive.
IN-PERSON and ZOOM appts available. My style is engaged, curious, warm, direct, and my clients tell me they enjoy my sense of humor. I love working with individuals struggling with conflicts in the family, work, or with friends, those wanting to gain insight into themselves, and individuals in the process of healing from trauma. I have specialized training in EMDR (eye movement desensitization & reprocessing), which is an evidence-based practice shown to be effective in decreasing psychological distress caused by trauma and disturbing life experiences. I also incorporate parts work/IFS. I’m neurodiversity affirming and fat positive.
(831) 854-7543 View (831) 854-7543
Photo of Grace Lee, MA, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Grace Lee
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
My approach to therapy is rooted in modern research on the brain, trauma and attachment. I work with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships and their sexuality. I am experienced working with couples, adult individuals as well as children. I am LGBTQQA and kink friendly.
My approach to therapy is rooted in modern research on the brain, trauma and attachment. I work with clients who struggle with depression, anxiety, trauma, relationships and their sexuality. I am experienced working with couples, adult individuals as well as children. I am LGBTQQA and kink friendly.
(650) 273-9823 View (650) 273-9823
Photo of Monica Reynoso Pang, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Monica Reynoso Pang
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
I truly enjoy helping individuals navigate through the internal and interpersonal conflicts that prevent them from having satisfying relationships with those they love. My research and experience has been focused on helping individuals clearly identify the stumbling blocks that keep them stuck in unhealthy behavioral patterns. Although I enjoy working with individuals of all backgrounds and beliefs, my passion is to work with those seeking to make Jesus the center of their therapeutic process. I'd love to walk with you through your journey of seeking wholeness, true spirituality and real purpose.
I truly enjoy helping individuals navigate through the internal and interpersonal conflicts that prevent them from having satisfying relationships with those they love. My research and experience has been focused on helping individuals clearly identify the stumbling blocks that keep them stuck in unhealthy behavioral patterns. Although I enjoy working with individuals of all backgrounds and beliefs, my passion is to work with those seeking to make Jesus the center of their therapeutic process. I'd love to walk with you through your journey of seeking wholeness, true spirituality and real purpose.
(408) 899-5858 View (408) 899-5858
Photo of Alex Tsai, MBA, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Alex Tsai
Marriage & Family Therapist, MBA, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070  (Online Only)
Thank you for being interested in my services. Living in the bay area, life can be hectic and stressful, and we all can benefit from empathetic and empowering support. Many circumstances may have brought you to the point where depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship difficulties have made it difficult for you to find the balance or direction in life. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals, couples and families navigating through various challenges and attaining a fulfilling life. Together, we can ease your suffering, explore your concerns, and implement positive changes to meet your needs.
Thank you for being interested in my services. Living in the bay area, life can be hectic and stressful, and we all can benefit from empathetic and empowering support. Many circumstances may have brought you to the point where depression, anxiety, trauma, or relationship difficulties have made it difficult for you to find the balance or direction in life. My goal as a therapist is to support individuals, couples and families navigating through various challenges and attaining a fulfilling life. Together, we can ease your suffering, explore your concerns, and implement positive changes to meet your needs.
(650) 469-8114 View (650) 469-8114
Photo of Pia B. Crosby - Fierce Therapy , MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fierce Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe in meeting the client where they are, facing the issues presented with an open mind, and to always establish healthy boundaries. My approach is to help manage life's transitions together in a way that provides a nurturing & empathetic experience.
I believe in meeting the client where they are, facing the issues presented with an open mind, and to always establish healthy boundaries. My approach is to help manage life's transitions together in a way that provides a nurturing & empathetic experience.
(510) 240-1830 View (510) 240-1830
Photo of Fennie Zheng, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fennie Zheng
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Carlos, CA 94070
Do you want to be known, seen, and loved for who you are, not for what others expect you to be? Therapy is a safe place to discuss your life experiences – the past hurts, the current challenges, and the fear and helplessness for the future. I am dedicated to help you to overcome those difficulties and feelings, to empower you to move forward towards positive change. Seeing you to regain life balance and to live and love your life wholeheartedly will be my greatest joy.
Do you want to be known, seen, and loved for who you are, not for what others expect you to be? Therapy is a safe place to discuss your life experiences – the past hurts, the current challenges, and the fear and helplessness for the future. I am dedicated to help you to overcome those difficulties and feelings, to empower you to move forward towards positive change. Seeing you to regain life balance and to live and love your life wholeheartedly will be my greatest joy.
(415) 582-6482 View (415) 582-6482
Photo of Marcella Cox- Certified Eating Disorder Specialist, MS, LMFT, CEDS-S, CDWF, Marriage & Family Therapist
Marcella Cox- Certified Eating Disorder Specialist
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CEDS-S, CDWF
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070  (Online Only)
Tired of struggling with your body, food, exercise or with yourself? You may be growing weary of feeling like you don't measure up and your constant mental chatter about your short-comings is taking a toll on you, your family, friendships, health and well-being. You may be feeling hopeless about breaking self-destructive pattens. Don't despair - you don't have to do this alone. Working together with a Kindful Body clinician we will begin a process that can heal your relationship with food, your body and yourself so you can live your life with greater ease and joy.
Tired of struggling with your body, food, exercise or with yourself? You may be growing weary of feeling like you don't measure up and your constant mental chatter about your short-comings is taking a toll on you, your family, friendships, health and well-being. You may be feeling hopeless about breaking self-destructive pattens. Don't despair - you don't have to do this alone. Working together with a Kindful Body clinician we will begin a process that can heal your relationship with food, your body and yourself so you can live your life with greater ease and joy.
(650) 727-5401 View (650) 727-5401
Photo of Ursula Jorgensen, LMFT, ATR-BC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ursula Jorgensen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Carlos, CA 94070
I provide a friendly, honest, non-judgemental therapeutic space with a combination of talk therapy and expressive techniques to engage the areas of challenge and celebrate the character strengths that make you unique. Art Therapy is offered to explore a visual way using sand tray, drawing, journaling, collage, painting, or imaginative play. This safe space offers therapeutic support to children, teens and adults with a primary focus on symptoms including anxiety, depression, life transitions (loss, illness, divorce/separation) and self identity exploration affected by trauma, circumstance, orientation or non-conforming individuals.
I provide a friendly, honest, non-judgemental therapeutic space with a combination of talk therapy and expressive techniques to engage the areas of challenge and celebrate the character strengths that make you unique. Art Therapy is offered to explore a visual way using sand tray, drawing, journaling, collage, painting, or imaginative play. This safe space offers therapeutic support to children, teens and adults with a primary focus on symptoms including anxiety, depression, life transitions (loss, illness, divorce/separation) and self identity exploration affected by trauma, circumstance, orientation or non-conforming individuals.
(650) 670-4812 View (650) 670-4812
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.