EMDR Therapists in 94111

Photo of Efrén F. Hilera, PsyD, MBA, Psychologist
Efrén F. Hilera
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
I am well-trained & have extensive experience with evidence-based treatments, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), exposure treatment for anxiety, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), motivational interviewing, MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy) & DBT (Dialectic-Behavioral Therapy).
I am an empowerment and transformational coach who works with individuals, couples, companies and organizations who are committed to living life in a powerful, meaningful and fulfilling way! I am passionate about working with and developing effective leaders, transforming work cultures, creating more engagement in teams, and helping individuals and organizations achieve their goals and dreams. If you feel inspired by what you read, please contact me so that we can explore if we should work together and discuss how I can bring value to your life and/or organization.
I am well-trained & have extensive experience with evidence-based treatments, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), exposure treatment for anxiety, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), motivational interviewing, MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy) & DBT (Dialectic-Behavioral Therapy).
I am an empowerment and transformational coach who works with individuals, couples, companies and organizations who are committed to living life in a powerful, meaningful and fulfilling way! I am passionate about working with and developing effective leaders, transforming work cultures, creating more engagement in teams, and helping individuals and organizations achieve their goals and dreams. If you feel inspired by what you read, please contact me so that we can explore if we should work together and discuss how I can bring value to your life and/or organization.
(650) 924-9912 View (650) 924-9912
Photo of Aniko Zela Benedek | Psychedelic Assisted Therapy, ASCW
Aniko Zela Benedek | Psychedelic Assisted Therapy
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASCW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
I've worked in the psychedelic space for over 5 years and my practice includes modalities such as Ketamine Assisted Therapy, and IFS (Internal Family Systems) and EMDR.
I’m an Associate Therapist with an MSW from Columbia University and a meditation teacher based in California. I understand how it feels to be weighed down by past experiences and unresolved wounds, or to seek balance and clarity in life. I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey home - to yourself. Whether you need to heal from past trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or get clarity on your situation or are going through a life transition or relationship issues, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Together, we will connect you to your own inner healing wisdom so that you can create the life you want to live.
I've worked in the psychedelic space for over 5 years and my practice includes modalities such as Ketamine Assisted Therapy, and IFS (Internal Family Systems) and EMDR.
I’m an Associate Therapist with an MSW from Columbia University and a meditation teacher based in California. I understand how it feels to be weighed down by past experiences and unresolved wounds, or to seek balance and clarity in life. I am dedicated to supporting you on your journey home - to yourself. Whether you need to heal from past trauma, grief, depression, anxiety, or get clarity on your situation or are going through a life transition or relationship issues, I’m here to support you every step of the way. Together, we will connect you to your own inner healing wisdom so that you can create the life you want to live.
(707) 475-0251 View (707) 475-0251
Photo of Isabelle Futsi, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist
Isabelle Futsi
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
I am a triple-certified trauma specialist ( EMDR/Brainspotting/Somatics).
No matter how far you are on your journey, it's likely that there will always be something that's not perfect, or the way you want it to be. When we are hurting (and not present), it's difficult to enjoy life, make decisions, or work through transitions, traumas, painful memories, or experiences. Emotional injuries may lead to difficulties with relationships, self worth, goals, and living to your fullest potential. My name is Isabelle, and I will support you in practicing mindfulness and taking control, rather than "sinking" into painful life situations or memories. I use a variety of effective cutting-edge therapies and tools.
I am a triple-certified trauma specialist ( EMDR/Brainspotting/Somatics).
No matter how far you are on your journey, it's likely that there will always be something that's not perfect, or the way you want it to be. When we are hurting (and not present), it's difficult to enjoy life, make decisions, or work through transitions, traumas, painful memories, or experiences. Emotional injuries may lead to difficulties with relationships, self worth, goals, and living to your fullest potential. My name is Isabelle, and I will support you in practicing mindfulness and taking control, rather than "sinking" into painful life situations or memories. I use a variety of effective cutting-edge therapies and tools.
(818) 351-7052 View (818) 351-7052
Photo of Ina Beth Moon - Solid Ground Psychotherapy, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Solid Ground Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
I am fully trained in EMDR.
We naturally strive to make sense of the things that happen to us. With compassionate guidance and support, the effects of impactful events can be transformed. My approach is collaborative, warm and interactive. My mindfulness-based, psychodynamic practice provides a safe haven from which to explore and create meaning of the key events of your life so that you can arrive at a place of balance and contentment. Fully trained in EMDR, I have the skills to help you resolve traumatic events. I utilize sand tray and other creative means of expression to aid in the healing process. It can even be fun!
I am fully trained in EMDR.
We naturally strive to make sense of the things that happen to us. With compassionate guidance and support, the effects of impactful events can be transformed. My approach is collaborative, warm and interactive. My mindfulness-based, psychodynamic practice provides a safe haven from which to explore and create meaning of the key events of your life so that you can arrive at a place of balance and contentment. Fully trained in EMDR, I have the skills to help you resolve traumatic events. I utilize sand tray and other creative means of expression to aid in the healing process. It can even be fun!
(415) 477-1698 View (415) 477-1698
Photo of Jordan A Hamilton, PhD, Psychologist
Jordan A Hamilton
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111
Image Transformation and EMDR are perfect for this work.
Feeling Stuck? Struggling with turning points of your life? Trauma is pervasive in our society in varying degrees and intensities. If you’ve been working hard to resolve the anxiety that go with early and middle life. Perhaps you should consider Intensive retreat. We work 6 hours person-to-person per day in three or five days to break through the impasse. Trauma (of any intensity) can impair the ability to imagine, particularly to imagine an open future. It can disrupt the ability to form positive meaning. Trauma floods the present and captures the future in terrifying images.
Image Transformation and EMDR are perfect for this work.
Feeling Stuck? Struggling with turning points of your life? Trauma is pervasive in our society in varying degrees and intensities. If you’ve been working hard to resolve the anxiety that go with early and middle life. Perhaps you should consider Intensive retreat. We work 6 hours person-to-person per day in three or five days to break through the impasse. Trauma (of any intensity) can impair the ability to imagine, particularly to imagine an open future. It can disrupt the ability to form positive meaning. Trauma floods the present and captures the future in terrifying images.
(530) 639-8006 View (530) 639-8006
Photo of Claudia Schroeder, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Claudia Schroeder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
I am an EMDR, trauma informed, therapist, and I specialize in the treatment of adults who experience anxiety, depression and trauma so they can let go of the past and be the person they want to be.
What if you could get off the roller emotional coaster? Does it feel like your emotions are all over the place? You have big reactions when doing everyday things-like talking with your spouse, friends, people at work, taking the kids to the store. It always goes the same way. Your emotions get the best of you. You feel out of touch with who you really are and how you want your life to be. You feel on edge and notice that overwhelm is just a situation, interaction or comment away. You notice this keeps happening but you’re not sure what do about it? This is not who you want to be.
I am an EMDR, trauma informed, therapist, and I specialize in the treatment of adults who experience anxiety, depression and trauma so they can let go of the past and be the person they want to be.
What if you could get off the roller emotional coaster? Does it feel like your emotions are all over the place? You have big reactions when doing everyday things-like talking with your spouse, friends, people at work, taking the kids to the store. It always goes the same way. Your emotions get the best of you. You feel out of touch with who you really are and how you want your life to be. You feel on edge and notice that overwhelm is just a situation, interaction or comment away. You notice this keeps happening but you’re not sure what do about it? This is not who you want to be.
(559) 242-4376 View (559) 242-4376
Photo of Erin Elizabeth Powers, MA
Erin Elizabeth Powers
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
I am an Associate Therapist with a Master's in Counseling, certification in Expressive and Creative Arts, and EMDR certification.
I believe that we all have the capacity to heal, despite any adversity we have faced. I hold an understanding that trauma is often at the root of unresolved issues and I provide a safe space to unpack this. I have experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds, including those experiencing anxiety and co-occurring health issues impacting mental health.I enjoy incorporating mindfulness, expressive arts, and other holistic modalities into my sessions and will provide resources for you to utilize in everyday life. As Carl Jung states, "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become".
I am an Associate Therapist with a Master's in Counseling, certification in Expressive and Creative Arts, and EMDR certification.
I believe that we all have the capacity to heal, despite any adversity we have faced. I hold an understanding that trauma is often at the root of unresolved issues and I provide a safe space to unpack this. I have experience working with clients from a variety of backgrounds, including those experiencing anxiety and co-occurring health issues impacting mental health.I enjoy incorporating mindfulness, expressive arts, and other holistic modalities into my sessions and will provide resources for you to utilize in everyday life. As Carl Jung states, "I am not what happened to me, I am what I choose to become".
(323) 645-1821 View (323) 645-1821
Photo of Hannah Grant, AMFT, APCC, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Hannah Grant
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111
I am an EMDR-trained therapist and can provide this therapy to my adult clients when appropriate.
I specialize in working with children and young adults struggling with anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and self-esteem. Whether you or your child are having difficulties integrating socially, struggling with emotional regulation issues, or showing signs of withdrawal and isolation, I'm here to help.
I am an EMDR-trained therapist and can provide this therapy to my adult clients when appropriate.
I specialize in working with children and young adults struggling with anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and self-esteem. Whether you or your child are having difficulties integrating socially, struggling with emotional regulation issues, or showing signs of withdrawal and isolation, I'm here to help.
(310) 361-4516 View (310) 361-4516
Photo of Dr. Smita Kapoor, DMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Smita Kapoor
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
As a certified EMDR therapist, I offer targeted support for healing.
Navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming, especially when they stem from deep-rooted experiences like childhood trauma or complex PTSD, dealing with anxiety or anxiety-related disorders, depression, or relationship and communication issues. But you're not alone on this journey. As a therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can freely express, process, and explore their emotions. Whether you're a young professional dealing with career stress, part of a neurodiverse couple, or facing personal struggles, my goal is to support you every step of the way.
As a certified EMDR therapist, I offer targeted support for healing.
Navigating life's challenges can be overwhelming, especially when they stem from deep-rooted experiences like childhood trauma or complex PTSD, dealing with anxiety or anxiety-related disorders, depression, or relationship and communication issues. But you're not alone on this journey. As a therapist, I provide a safe, non-judgmental space where clients can freely express, process, and explore their emotions. Whether you're a young professional dealing with career stress, part of a neurodiverse couple, or facing personal struggles, my goal is to support you every step of the way.
(909) 706-6624 View (909) 706-6624
Photo of Margena Carter - Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Carter Care Therapeutic Services, Margena Carter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
Are you interested in living life to the fullest but struggle to achieve it? You've taken the first steps towards healing. Carter Care Therapeutic Services is dedicated to you! Regardless of what you're going through, our team of Licensed Therapist will strive to bring out the best in you. You're not alone. We can assist you in resolving your past pain! We will affirm your strengths and challenge you to use them. While promoting insight, healing and change in an environment full of warmth and genuineness. Carter Care Therapist are here to provide a safe, unbiased and non-judgmental environment.
(415) 319-9641 View (415) 319-9641
Photo of Tyson Smith, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Tyson Smith
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma? Seeking help to improve your relationship dynamics? As a therapist, I work with a variety of individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, aiming to create a safe, secure space for therapy. My approach, characterised by action-oriented strategies that promote acceptance, mindfulness, commitment, and behavioral change, is geared toward helping clients explore and conquer their challenges.
Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, or trauma? Seeking help to improve your relationship dynamics? As a therapist, I work with a variety of individuals and couples from diverse backgrounds, aiming to create a safe, secure space for therapy. My approach, characterised by action-oriented strategies that promote acceptance, mindfulness, commitment, and behavioral change, is geared toward helping clients explore and conquer their challenges.
(562) 784-7887 View (562) 784-7887
Photo of Vanessa Torres, AMFT, Pre-Licensed Professional
Vanessa Torres
Pre-Licensed Professional, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Vanessa (she/they) I am an AMFT and Registered Art Therapist. I am of Zapotec heritage, raised on Tataviam lands, known today as the Northeast San Fernando Valley. Identities I hold are being queer, disabled, 1st gen, neurodiverse, and somewhere on the gender spectrum of being femme and beyond one gender. My commitment as an Anti-Imperialist/abolitionist therapist show up in the space in the ways I do not center tenants of white supremacy such as perfectionism, worship of written word, centrism/white comfort, and individualism. As a person of color, my lived experience has led me to center social justice in my work.
Hi, my name is Vanessa (she/they) I am an AMFT and Registered Art Therapist. I am of Zapotec heritage, raised on Tataviam lands, known today as the Northeast San Fernando Valley. Identities I hold are being queer, disabled, 1st gen, neurodiverse, and somewhere on the gender spectrum of being femme and beyond one gender. My commitment as an Anti-Imperialist/abolitionist therapist show up in the space in the ways I do not center tenants of white supremacy such as perfectionism, worship of written word, centrism/white comfort, and individualism. As a person of color, my lived experience has led me to center social justice in my work.
(619) 853-4410 View (619) 853-4410
Photo of Michelle Horton, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Michelle Horton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
You are determined, smart and used to navigating challenges but this feels different. Normally you could handle it yourself or push the worry away but bigger questions are arising and you are left feeling overwhelmed, lost in ambivalence, stressed, anxious and not sure what can help. You feel like your dreams and what you have worked for are slipping away and it's impacting your life & relationships. This may be triggering lots of painful or scary feelings, memories from your past, not feeling like yourself or the idea that now is the time to make real change and get help.
You are determined, smart and used to navigating challenges but this feels different. Normally you could handle it yourself or push the worry away but bigger questions are arising and you are left feeling overwhelmed, lost in ambivalence, stressed, anxious and not sure what can help. You feel like your dreams and what you have worked for are slipping away and it's impacting your life & relationships. This may be triggering lots of painful or scary feelings, memories from your past, not feeling like yourself or the idea that now is the time to make real change and get help.
(760) 292-9109 View (760) 292-9109
Photo of Amir Ramezani, PhD, Psychologist
Amir Ramezani
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
As James Baldwin famously said, "not everything that has been faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed unless faced", I also offer you the following poem: "When we feel safe, anything is possible. We become unstoppable. Because we have a firm ground to launch and a safe ground to land. We can then stand. Voice ourselves, show ourselves. Life becomes a dance."
As James Baldwin famously said, "not everything that has been faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed unless faced", I also offer you the following poem: "When we feel safe, anything is possible. We become unstoppable. Because we have a firm ground to launch and a safe ground to land. We can then stand. Voice ourselves, show ourselves. Life becomes a dance."
(916) 963-9398 View (916) 963-9398
Photo of Esther Yi, PsyD
Esther Yi
PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
Life is sometimes unexpectedly difficult and suffering can be inevitable. However, how you respond to life circumstances can drastically change your ability to enjoy life. I have worked with those that believed in lies about themselves after a traumatic incident, childhood, or their own minds. These lies can be crippling and result in anxiety, depression, addictions, school related difficulties, stress, anger, parenting, communication difficulties, relational issues, family problems, job dissatisfaction and more. I provide different perspectives that encourage personal healing and relief. Change your mind change your life
Life is sometimes unexpectedly difficult and suffering can be inevitable. However, how you respond to life circumstances can drastically change your ability to enjoy life. I have worked with those that believed in lies about themselves after a traumatic incident, childhood, or their own minds. These lies can be crippling and result in anxiety, depression, addictions, school related difficulties, stress, anger, parenting, communication difficulties, relational issues, family problems, job dissatisfaction and more. I provide different perspectives that encourage personal healing and relief. Change your mind change your life
(619) 367-9154 View (619) 367-9154
Photo of Julio Lagos - UniHealth Counseling & Psychology, LCSW, CCBTS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
UniHealth Counseling & Psychology
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCBTS
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111  (Online Only)
If you feel the stress of personal relationships, the stress of work, and even the stress bottled up from life circumstances over the years, we may be able to help. When challenging experiences push us away from our path, and from living up to the potential we know we have, an attentive and responsive therapeutic environment for positive healthy change may help. Our office is a safe, private, and confidential space to tell your story and define your journey. We offer support to help you sort through worries, stress, negative feelings, and the internal tensions holding you back from developing a fresh and clear journey for your life.
If you feel the stress of personal relationships, the stress of work, and even the stress bottled up from life circumstances over the years, we may be able to help. When challenging experiences push us away from our path, and from living up to the potential we know we have, an attentive and responsive therapeutic environment for positive healthy change may help. Our office is a safe, private, and confidential space to tell your story and define your journey. We offer support to help you sort through worries, stress, negative feelings, and the internal tensions holding you back from developing a fresh and clear journey for your life.
(415) 749-9871 View (415) 749-9871
Photo of Reuben P. Wolff, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist
Reuben P. Wolff
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
Are you ready to reach your potential? Are you tired of being caught in repeating patterns? Are you facing new challenges? Would you benefit from support and insights? You have shown clear motivation to create a clearer path for yourself because searching for the right collaborative therapist is a courageous act that can help you to achieve greater harmony as you move into your future. Perhaps you are experiencing anxiety or depression, are in life transition, are spiritually stuck, or are curious about what is next for you. I invite you to explore how I can assist you in a safe and accepting environment.
Are you ready to reach your potential? Are you tired of being caught in repeating patterns? Are you facing new challenges? Would you benefit from support and insights? You have shown clear motivation to create a clearer path for yourself because searching for the right collaborative therapist is a courageous act that can help you to achieve greater harmony as you move into your future. Perhaps you are experiencing anxiety or depression, are in life transition, are spiritually stuck, or are curious about what is next for you. I invite you to explore how I can assist you in a safe and accepting environment.
(415) 799-4147 View (415) 799-4147
Photo of Dwight Harper Grisham - Couples Counseling & Therapy Clinic, MA, EdS, EdD, CPQ, Psychologist
Couples Counseling & Therapy Clinic
Psychologist, MA, EdS, EdD, CPQ
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94111
COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL COUPLES THERAPY: Conflict Resolution Skills: Anger management.Infidelity Counseling.Reproductive Counseling. Resolve one issue at a time: diminish name calling/condemnation: hold one another accountable for behavior: minimize mind reading: eliminate verbal/physical abuse: work towards full honesty: build an emotional bank account: improve ratio of favorable/unfavorable interactions: acknowledge each partner's authority. Emotional Maturation: Learn appropriate emotional expression: identify/heal childhood emotional triggers: differentiate between reasonable/unreasonable expectations. Character Development: Improve listening skills: take responsibility for your actions: increase empathy: practice sincere apologies: acknowledge limitations: distinguish:needs/desires: ask for what's important. Eliminate domestic violence. RESTORE ROMANTIC LOVE.
COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL COUPLES THERAPY: Conflict Resolution Skills: Anger management.Infidelity Counseling.Reproductive Counseling. Resolve one issue at a time: diminish name calling/condemnation: hold one another accountable for behavior: minimize mind reading: eliminate verbal/physical abuse: work towards full honesty: build an emotional bank account: improve ratio of favorable/unfavorable interactions: acknowledge each partner's authority. Emotional Maturation: Learn appropriate emotional expression: identify/heal childhood emotional triggers: differentiate between reasonable/unreasonable expectations. Character Development: Improve listening skills: take responsibility for your actions: increase empathy: practice sincere apologies: acknowledge limitations: distinguish:needs/desires: ask for what's important. Eliminate domestic violence. RESTORE ROMANTIC LOVE.
(650) 918-5901 View (650) 918-5901
Photo of Laura DeSantis, LPCC, Counselor
Laura DeSantis
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111
As a therapist, my goal is to foster a space for you to explore what you want for yourself and your life through introspection, healing, and acceptance of self. I offer an interactive style that is engaged, compassionate, attuned to your strengths, and informed by modern neuroscience so we're getting to the root of things. This space is yours, a place where you can be heard without judgment, where vulnerability meets understanding, and where healing can truly happen.
As a therapist, my goal is to foster a space for you to explore what you want for yourself and your life through introspection, healing, and acceptance of self. I offer an interactive style that is engaged, compassionate, attuned to your strengths, and informed by modern neuroscience so we're getting to the root of things. This space is yours, a place where you can be heard without judgment, where vulnerability meets understanding, and where healing can truly happen.
(628) 241-7672 View (628) 241-7672
Photo of Arianna Sifuentes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Arianna Sifuentes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94111
Are you LGBTQIA+ and seeking support? Maybe you're tired of therapy that is just "LGBTQIA+ friendly" and not whole-heartedly LGBTQIA+ and trans-affirming. Or maybe this is your first time looking for a therapist who understands and validates your unique experiences. Regardless of where you are in your journey, I welcome you here. As a queer therapist, my practice is dedicated to providing affirming and celebratory therapy for individuals facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, gender identity, life transitions, complex trauma, boundaries, attachment, communication, and relationships.
Are you LGBTQIA+ and seeking support? Maybe you're tired of therapy that is just "LGBTQIA+ friendly" and not whole-heartedly LGBTQIA+ and trans-affirming. Or maybe this is your first time looking for a therapist who understands and validates your unique experiences. Regardless of where you are in your journey, I welcome you here. As a queer therapist, my practice is dedicated to providing affirming and celebratory therapy for individuals facing challenges related to anxiety, depression, self-esteem, gender identity, life transitions, complex trauma, boundaries, attachment, communication, and relationships.
(415) 943-1185 View (415) 943-1185
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.