EMDR Therapists in 94596

Photo of Caitlin Cotter, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94596, CA
Caitlin Cotter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I integrate Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and EMDR as well.
Pain and suffering in life is often caused by feeling stuck. With over ten years of experience, I love helping people get unstuck! I can bring skillful support to help yield the change you seek. I believe that everyone has the keys to unlocking themselves from within. However, that doesn’t mean you are on your own. A collaborative, therapeutic relationship can cultivate, restore and strengthen the connection to your own inner wisdom, bringing freedom and greater ease into your life.
I integrate Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and EMDR as well.
Pain and suffering in life is often caused by feeling stuck. With over ten years of experience, I love helping people get unstuck! I can bring skillful support to help yield the change you seek. I believe that everyone has the keys to unlocking themselves from within. However, that doesn’t mean you are on your own. A collaborative, therapeutic relationship can cultivate, restore and strengthen the connection to your own inner wisdom, bringing freedom and greater ease into your life.
(510) 405-7437 View (510) 405-7437
Photo of Carolyn Feyder Hokanson, Psychologist in 94596, CA
Carolyn Feyder Hokanson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I am EMDR trained.
Psychotherapy is an exciting, personal growth experience. I use a combination of psychodynamic therapy, behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy and desensitization for fears and phobias. I work with each individual to develop a unique therapeutic plan. I have helped many people manage their anxiety, phobias and depression in a safe environment. Insight, behavior change, and cognitive reframing help to replace the negative, self sabotaging behaviors. Psychotherapy helps one to develop a more fulfilling life. I am EMDR trained; Pay for Service only due to skill level, session length exceeding Insurance Requirements.
I am EMDR trained.
Psychotherapy is an exciting, personal growth experience. I use a combination of psychodynamic therapy, behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy and desensitization for fears and phobias. I work with each individual to develop a unique therapeutic plan. I have helped many people manage their anxiety, phobias and depression in a safe environment. Insight, behavior change, and cognitive reframing help to replace the negative, self sabotaging behaviors. Psychotherapy helps one to develop a more fulfilling life. I am EMDR trained; Pay for Service only due to skill level, session length exceeding Insurance Requirements.
(925) 269-7944 View (925) 269-7944
Photo of Matthew Rojo, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Matthew Rojo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Hi, my name is Matt Rojo. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I provide EMDR and Gottman informed therapy, and have over 12 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families heal and grow. I know that it can be overwhelming to reach out for help, and that you're probably only doing this after you've tried everything else. I promise to provide treatment shown to be effective by clinical research, and to meet you with kindness, honesty, and acceptance.
Hi, my name is Matt Rojo. I am a licensed marriage and family therapist. I provide EMDR and Gottman informed therapy, and have over 12 years of experience helping individuals, couples, and families heal and grow. I know that it can be overwhelming to reach out for help, and that you're probably only doing this after you've tried everything else. I promise to provide treatment shown to be effective by clinical research, and to meet you with kindness, honesty, and acceptance.
(415) 347-6921 View (415) 347-6921
Photo of Michelle Rodriguez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94596, CA
Michelle Rodriguez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Welcome! I am thrilled that you are seeking support! It is a major step! How can I help? For more than twenty years I have worked to support individuals with anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, substance abuse, identity and adjustments in life. My approach is holistic and focuses on meeting the individuals where they are. I incorporate Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Humanistic approaches and EMDR in my work. I see each person, not as a diagnosis or label, but as an individual with life experiences, strengths and challenges. I would be honored to walk alongside you and support you in your journey.
Welcome! I am thrilled that you are seeking support! It is a major step! How can I help? For more than twenty years I have worked to support individuals with anxiety, grief, depression, trauma, substance abuse, identity and adjustments in life. My approach is holistic and focuses on meeting the individuals where they are. I incorporate Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Psychodynamic, Humanistic approaches and EMDR in my work. I see each person, not as a diagnosis or label, but as an individual with life experiences, strengths and challenges. I would be honored to walk alongside you and support you in your journey.
(925) 214-8755 View (925) 214-8755
Photo of Private Practice, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Private Practice
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
EMDR therapist in the East Bay specialized in Trauma / PTSD, Marriage Counseling, Food Issues / Disordered Eating, Anxiety, LGBTQ, Depression, Women's Issues, Spirituality, Life Transitions, Adoption, Parenting, and Teen Issues. I regularly see Couples, Families, Teens and Adults ranging from early adolescence to late 60's.
EMDR therapist in the East Bay specialized in Trauma / PTSD, Marriage Counseling, Food Issues / Disordered Eating, Anxiety, LGBTQ, Depression, Women's Issues, Spirituality, Life Transitions, Adoption, Parenting, and Teen Issues. I regularly see Couples, Families, Teens and Adults ranging from early adolescence to late 60's.
(925) 948-8070 View (925) 948-8070
Photo of Nicole Michelle Farber, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94596, CA
Nicole Michelle Farber
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
I bring in holistic and research-based modalities like IFS and EMDR and by following your lead, we embark on a collaborative journey where your concerns and aspirations guide the process.
We all come with different stories, identities, backgrounds, cultures, and representations of our experiences which make up who we are and how we relate to the people and world around us. Therapy is an opportunity to examine, understand, and process these parts in order to find our place in the world, establish healthy relationships, and feel a sense of joy and satisfaction in life. Whether you're contending with the echoes of childhood trauma, navigating the many realms and layers of identity, or grappling with the weight of anxiety and depression, my therapeutic space is crafted to honor your individuality.
I bring in holistic and research-based modalities like IFS and EMDR and by following your lead, we embark on a collaborative journey where your concerns and aspirations guide the process.
We all come with different stories, identities, backgrounds, cultures, and representations of our experiences which make up who we are and how we relate to the people and world around us. Therapy is an opportunity to examine, understand, and process these parts in order to find our place in the world, establish healthy relationships, and feel a sense of joy and satisfaction in life. Whether you're contending with the echoes of childhood trauma, navigating the many realms and layers of identity, or grappling with the weight of anxiety and depression, my therapeutic space is crafted to honor your individuality.
(925) 492-7042 View (925) 492-7042
Photo of Christina Vasquez-Leiva, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94596, CA
Christina Vasquez-Leiva
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
EMDR is the vehicle that will help you get there.
Have you ever felt alone in a crowded room? Had an overwhelming feeling of wanting to cry, but not really sure why? Thoughts and worries that keep you up at night? You are not alone, many of us struggle with depression and anxiety in our everyday lives. These struggles might cause us to not perform our best at work, keep us from concentrating in school and cause us to say things that we don’t mean to the ones that we love. I can help you identify what you want to improve in your life and create a safe space for you to be able to overcome the barriers preventing you from succeeding.
EMDR is the vehicle that will help you get there.
Have you ever felt alone in a crowded room? Had an overwhelming feeling of wanting to cry, but not really sure why? Thoughts and worries that keep you up at night? You are not alone, many of us struggle with depression and anxiety in our everyday lives. These struggles might cause us to not perform our best at work, keep us from concentrating in school and cause us to say things that we don’t mean to the ones that we love. I can help you identify what you want to improve in your life and create a safe space for you to be able to overcome the barriers preventing you from succeeding.
(925) 369-5340 View (925) 369-5340
Photo of Ann Pagliaro, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94596, CA
Ann Pagliaro
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I am an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) practitioner and consultant.
I offer many treatment modalities, and specialize in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), an information processing approach which integrates elements of many effective psychotherapies: psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, experiential, and body-centered therapies in a phase structured protocol. For over three decades,I have been helping adults of all ages deal with emotional difficulties including anxiety, depression, phobias, health concerns, grief, stress, and issues of aging.
I am an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) practitioner and consultant.
I offer many treatment modalities, and specialize in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), an information processing approach which integrates elements of many effective psychotherapies: psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, experiential, and body-centered therapies in a phase structured protocol. For over three decades,I have been helping adults of all ages deal with emotional difficulties including anxiety, depression, phobias, health concerns, grief, stress, and issues of aging.
(925) 308-5328 View (925) 308-5328
Photo of Fengmei Li, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94596, CA
Fengmei Li
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I also practice EMDR as a specialized trauma work modality.
Trauma may manifest in your life as all kinds of disruptions, such as anxiety, depression, burnout, nightmares, family conflicts, or relationship struggles. Yet, I see them as how your pain has found its own way to show up in this particular form. I approach this work with a trauma lens, yet it doesn’t mean that I will be searching for your “brokenness”. I see trauma as an inherent aspect of the human condition, and that we are all continuously healing from traumas, whether “big” or “small”, personal or collective.
I also practice EMDR as a specialized trauma work modality.
Trauma may manifest in your life as all kinds of disruptions, such as anxiety, depression, burnout, nightmares, family conflicts, or relationship struggles. Yet, I see them as how your pain has found its own way to show up in this particular form. I approach this work with a trauma lens, yet it doesn’t mean that I will be searching for your “brokenness”. I see trauma as an inherent aspect of the human condition, and that we are all continuously healing from traumas, whether “big” or “small”, personal or collective.
(925) 854-4469 View (925) 854-4469
Photo of Rhonda Barovsky, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94596, CA
Rhonda Barovsky
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PsyD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
People come to therapy because they want to feel better. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD, or relationship problems, if you have experienced rape, childhood abuse, domestic violence, please call me. I also work with people who have experienced the death of a loved one, including their child. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TEAM-CBT model developed by David Burns, MD, including powerful and effective techniques designed to move you from despair to joy. I also use EMDR, Hypnosis and Ketamine Assisted Therapy. "She was helpful, and understanding. I couldn't have gotten to where I am right now without her." KT
People come to therapy because they want to feel better. If you are experiencing depression, anxiety, OCD, or relationship problems, if you have experienced rape, childhood abuse, domestic violence, please call me. I also work with people who have experienced the death of a loved one, including their child. I use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TEAM-CBT model developed by David Burns, MD, including powerful and effective techniques designed to move you from despair to joy. I also use EMDR, Hypnosis and Ketamine Assisted Therapy. "She was helpful, and understanding. I couldn't have gotten to where I am right now without her." KT
(925) 304-6116 View (925) 304-6116
Photo of Dr. Natalie A. Ma, Psychologist in 94596, CA
Dr. Natalie A. Ma
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
I am an Asian-American therapist offering culturally sensitive mental health care using DBT and EMDR. DBT helps with emotion regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. EMDR addresses past trauma with precision and compassion. I honor cultural values and beliefs, creating a safe healing space for clients. Let's work together to cultivate resilience and empower you to live a life aligned with your values.
I am an Asian-American therapist offering culturally sensitive mental health care using DBT and EMDR. DBT helps with emotion regulation, mindfulness, and interpersonal effectiveness. EMDR addresses past trauma with precision and compassion. I honor cultural values and beliefs, creating a safe healing space for clients. Let's work together to cultivate resilience and empower you to live a life aligned with your values.
(415) 660-9562 View (415) 660-9562
Photo of Neli R Geonetta, Psychologist in 94596, CA
Neli R Geonetta
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I specialize in helping individuals (adults 18 and up) work through a wide range of issues. Some typical issues include depression, anxiety, OCD, infidelity, intimacy, relationship problems, addictions, transitions ( Marriage/divorce, career, empty-nest), trauma, ADD/ADHD, issue from childhood and other life issues. I have been treating these and other types of life problems for over 25 years. From my experience, I have found that people benefit from different therapeutic modalities and methods to achieve their goals and potential. Some of the modalities I find useful in addition to traditional in-depth psychotherapy include CBT/ERP, DBT, and EMDR.
I specialize in helping individuals (adults 18 and up) work through a wide range of issues. Some typical issues include depression, anxiety, OCD, infidelity, intimacy, relationship problems, addictions, transitions ( Marriage/divorce, career, empty-nest), trauma, ADD/ADHD, issue from childhood and other life issues. I have been treating these and other types of life problems for over 25 years. From my experience, I have found that people benefit from different therapeutic modalities and methods to achieve their goals and potential. Some of the modalities I find useful in addition to traditional in-depth psychotherapy include CBT/ERP, DBT, and EMDR.
(925) 238-3917 View (925) 238-3917
Photo of Sally LoGrasso, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Sally LoGrasso
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (a body oriented talking approach) and I’m certified in TIST (Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment).
As a psychotherapist, I work to create a warm and safe environment where it is possible for you to be seen and understood. In my work I combine insight oriented talking therapy, with more cutting edge Somatic and Energy therapies. I will help you explore your beliefs and unconscious/habitual responses that are born from your original relationships. In exploring the positive and negative ways in which these beliefs and responses play out in your interpersonal relationships, you will understand yourself in new ways. It is out of this context that healing can take place.
Certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), certified Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (a body oriented talking approach) and I’m certified in TIST (Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment).
As a psychotherapist, I work to create a warm and safe environment where it is possible for you to be seen and understood. In my work I combine insight oriented talking therapy, with more cutting edge Somatic and Energy therapies. I will help you explore your beliefs and unconscious/habitual responses that are born from your original relationships. In exploring the positive and negative ways in which these beliefs and responses play out in your interpersonal relationships, you will understand yourself in new ways. It is out of this context that healing can take place.
(415) 521-3767 View (415) 521-3767
Photo of Allen Choi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94596, CA
Allen Choi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
These include evidence-based approaches from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), and somatic methods.
We all get stuck sometimes. Whether you're battling anxiety related to school or work, trapped in a stagnant job or deteriorating relationship, or grappling with feelings of depression or isolation, I am here to assist you. I work with teens, adults, and families and our big goal is to help you get "unstuck". Together, we'll figure out what a happy, meaningful life is for you and ways to overcome the obstacles that are getting in the way.
These include evidence-based approaches from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), and somatic methods.
We all get stuck sometimes. Whether you're battling anxiety related to school or work, trapped in a stagnant job or deteriorating relationship, or grappling with feelings of depression or isolation, I am here to assist you. I work with teens, adults, and families and our big goal is to help you get "unstuck". Together, we'll figure out what a happy, meaningful life is for you and ways to overcome the obstacles that are getting in the way.
(925) 722-5197 View (925) 722-5197
Photo of Mind Matters Psychotherapy Coaching & EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94596, CA
Mind Matters Psychotherapy Coaching & EMDR
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
We have therapists who specialize in EMDR, eating disorders, substance use/abuse, complicated family dynamics, and more.
We are a group of clinicians committed to providing skilled, supportive therapy and coaching to our clients. Our therapists use a strength-based approach to building relationships with clients that provide the trust needed to make big change. We specialize in seeing women in transitional stages of life, including but not limited to; pre-and postpartum struggles, anxiety, eating disorders, addictive behaviors, depression, role confusion, relationship stress, parenting dynamics and trauma. We love to see couples, children and individual adults ready to move past barriers and experience more joy in relationships and life.
We have therapists who specialize in EMDR, eating disorders, substance use/abuse, complicated family dynamics, and more.
We are a group of clinicians committed to providing skilled, supportive therapy and coaching to our clients. Our therapists use a strength-based approach to building relationships with clients that provide the trust needed to make big change. We specialize in seeing women in transitional stages of life, including but not limited to; pre-and postpartum struggles, anxiety, eating disorders, addictive behaviors, depression, role confusion, relationship stress, parenting dynamics and trauma. We love to see couples, children and individual adults ready to move past barriers and experience more joy in relationships and life.
(925) 378-4684 View (925) 378-4684
Photo of Janelle Webster, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in 94596, CA
Janelle Webster
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
By utilizing skills from IFS (Internal Family Systems) as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) we will stabilize your nervous system and bring your body back to a peaceful center.
Are you concerned your unresolved trauma is holding you back from truly healing? Are you worried that you and your family are not meeting their full potential and are blocked from progression? Is your marriage or relationship not as close as it used to be and a constant source of stress? Together, we can find a path to healing you and your relationships. If you are seeking greater peace from trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues please reach out today.
By utilizing skills from IFS (Internal Family Systems) as well as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) we will stabilize your nervous system and bring your body back to a peaceful center.
Are you concerned your unresolved trauma is holding you back from truly healing? Are you worried that you and your family are not meeting their full potential and are blocked from progression? Is your marriage or relationship not as close as it used to be and a constant source of stress? Together, we can find a path to healing you and your relationships. If you are seeking greater peace from trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship issues please reach out today.
(925) 268-7917 View (925) 268-7917
Maria A Garay
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CAMF
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
My training in EMDR allows me to guide clients through reprocessing of trauma using specific targets for measurable success.
I work with clients from a client-centered approach which is intended to provide the safe space needed for healing. Together we will target debilitating symptoms. I work with adolescents and adults in individual and family settings. and couples seeking support in their relationship. I work with people seeking awareness on how to improve their life and support in achieving their goals. Together we will restore healthy lifestyle patterns and plan for future success. Teens, adults and couples often can suffer from the same depressive, anxious and traumatic experiences, but will need different support to heal.
My training in EMDR allows me to guide clients through reprocessing of trauma using specific targets for measurable success.
I work with clients from a client-centered approach which is intended to provide the safe space needed for healing. Together we will target debilitating symptoms. I work with adolescents and adults in individual and family settings. and couples seeking support in their relationship. I work with people seeking awareness on how to improve their life and support in achieving their goals. Together we will restore healthy lifestyle patterns and plan for future success. Teens, adults and couples often can suffer from the same depressive, anxious and traumatic experiences, but will need different support to heal.
(510) 746-8133 View (510) 746-8133
Photo of Sofia Collins, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Sofia Collins
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
I have had specified training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Suicide Prevention, Post-partum Depression care.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with over half a decade of experience, I have had the great pleasure in serving individuals, couples, families, and therapy groups in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. I have provided therapy services for folks aged 5 to 65, couples, families, trauma survivors, students, and LGBTQIA individuals and couples, supporting them in navigating difficult developmental milestones, career and life stressors, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance dependency, and much more.
I have had specified training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Suicide Prevention, Post-partum Depression care.
As a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with over half a decade of experience, I have had the great pleasure in serving individuals, couples, families, and therapy groups in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. I have provided therapy services for folks aged 5 to 65, couples, families, trauma survivors, students, and LGBTQIA individuals and couples, supporting them in navigating difficult developmental milestones, career and life stressors, depression, anxiety, relationship issues, substance dependency, and much more.
(707) 395-6532 View (707) 395-6532
Photo of Lisa Marie Tannehill, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94596, CA
Lisa Marie Tannehill
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I am trained in EMDR as well as intersubjective psychoanlaysis.
Hi! I'm so glad you're here. Welcome to my profile. Many of the clients I've worked with have experienced a sense of feeling stuck in some area of their life whether it's in their relationships with themselves or with others. They desire for their life to look different, but are at a loss of how to create the change they're longing for and only end up feeling anxious, depressed, or attempting to fill the void or distract from the feelings of overwhelm that a different way of life is possible.
I am trained in EMDR as well as intersubjective psychoanlaysis.
Hi! I'm so glad you're here. Welcome to my profile. Many of the clients I've worked with have experienced a sense of feeling stuck in some area of their life whether it's in their relationships with themselves or with others. They desire for their life to look different, but are at a loss of how to create the change they're longing for and only end up feeling anxious, depressed, or attempting to fill the void or distract from the feelings of overwhelm that a different way of life is possible.
(626) 247-3306 View (626) 247-3306
Photo of Phillip H Lolonis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94596, CA
Phillip H Lolonis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PPSC
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I specialize in the seamless integration of Team CBT, EMDR/Flash, IFS (Internal Family Systems "parts work"), and Mindfulness body awareness models.
I specialize in guiding individuals and families through intricate paths of healing, offering a unique blend of evidence-based models tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, habits/addictions, perfectionism, or grief, my holistic approach spans every facet of life – from home to work, school to sports. With expertise as a guide and therapist, I excel with those who enter with motivation to address their suffering and make the deliberate choice to dedicate time to their healing journey. This is 360 healing and I am here to help you.
I specialize in the seamless integration of Team CBT, EMDR/Flash, IFS (Internal Family Systems "parts work"), and Mindfulness body awareness models.
I specialize in guiding individuals and families through intricate paths of healing, offering a unique blend of evidence-based models tailored to your specific needs. Whether you are suffering from anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma, relationship challenges, habits/addictions, perfectionism, or grief, my holistic approach spans every facet of life – from home to work, school to sports. With expertise as a guide and therapist, I excel with those who enter with motivation to address their suffering and make the deliberate choice to dedicate time to their healing journey. This is 360 healing and I am here to help you.
(925) 420-8093 View (925) 420-8093
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.