EMDR Therapists in Santa Cruz County, AZ

Photo of Sandra jo Fletcher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Sandra jo Fletcher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Elgin, AZ 85611
I have extensive experience working with Trauma and utilize EMDR to help clients get unstuck.
My practice encompasses Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and many other forms of traditional therapy. EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has consistently demonstrated incredible benefits to individuals. youth, families and groups. Having practiced for over 17 years, I continue to enjoy sharing the passion and success of my work with others. Using my training and personal experiences with horses enables me to help clients move beyond fear and limitations to a life of freedom, inner peace and healing. I practice at my ranch in Elgin, Arizona located in the foothills of the Hauchuca mountain range.
I have extensive experience working with Trauma and utilize EMDR to help clients get unstuck.
My practice encompasses Equine Assisted Psychotherapy (EAP) and many other forms of traditional therapy. EAP is a powerful and effective therapeutic approach that has consistently demonstrated incredible benefits to individuals. youth, families and groups. Having practiced for over 17 years, I continue to enjoy sharing the passion and success of my work with others. Using my training and personal experiences with horses enables me to help clients move beyond fear and limitations to a life of freedom, inner peace and healing. I practice at my ranch in Elgin, Arizona located in the foothills of the Hauchuca mountain range.
(844) 919-0326 View (844) 919-0326
Photo of Heidi K Bruder, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Heidi K Bruder
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Sonoita, AZ 85637
I am a trauma informed therapist and trained in EMDR.
Hi, I'm Heidi. Thanks for stopping by! If you are here, you are likely seeking out a therapist that would be the right fit for you. If you are looking for someone who is authentic, empathetic, and often funny, then I just might be the one. My approach to therapy is rooted in creating a safe environment and building trust with my clients. With this foundation true healing through psychotherapy can occur. I am humbled to have the honor and privilege to come alongside my clients and support them in their healing journey.
I am a trauma informed therapist and trained in EMDR.
Hi, I'm Heidi. Thanks for stopping by! If you are here, you are likely seeking out a therapist that would be the right fit for you. If you are looking for someone who is authentic, empathetic, and often funny, then I just might be the one. My approach to therapy is rooted in creating a safe environment and building trust with my clients. With this foundation true healing through psychotherapy can occur. I am humbled to have the honor and privilege to come alongside my clients and support them in their healing journey.
(520) 422-7308 View (520) 422-7308
Photo of Cognitive Solutions LLC-Patricia Garcia, Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Cognitive Solutions LLC-Patricia Garcia
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Nogales, AZ 85621  (Online Only)
Trained in several evidence-based modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Welcome! The first step in seeking therapy is not easy and it's a daunting process. Congratulations on considering investing in yourself and your well-being. Whether you’re looking for someone to listen to you, validate you, or just sit with you as you process your emotions, therapy is the key. “The battlefield is in the mind, the prize is the soul”-Prince
Trained in several evidence-based modalities, including Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and Internal Family Systems (IFS).
Welcome! The first step in seeking therapy is not easy and it's a daunting process. Congratulations on considering investing in yourself and your well-being. Whether you’re looking for someone to listen to you, validate you, or just sit with you as you process your emotions, therapy is the key. “The battlefield is in the mind, the prize is the soul”-Prince
(520) 844-2789 View (520) 844-2789
Photo of La Consejera, Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
La Consejera
Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rio Rico, AZ 85648  (Online Only)
Coming from a collective culture, it is hard to know where our family and culture ends, and we begin. I help marginalized people find their individual voice so that they feel comfortable being who they want to be. I am highly committed to mental health and cultivating a culture of acceptance among marginalized people.
Coming from a collective culture, it is hard to know where our family and culture ends, and we begin. I help marginalized people find their individual voice so that they feel comfortable being who they want to be. I am highly committed to mental health and cultivating a culture of acceptance among marginalized people.
(520) 223-9003 View (520) 223-9003
Photo of Nick Oñate, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Nick Oñate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nogales, AZ 85621
Stress and the pressures of life can be difficult, especially in a disconnected world. Are you struggling with loneliness, low self-esteem, or anxiety? Many times these issues lead to addictions, ADHD, insomnia/poor sleep, and relationship conflicts. Are you feeling stuck in life or in a situation that continues to repeat itself? Together we can address the issues most important to you on your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
Stress and the pressures of life can be difficult, especially in a disconnected world. Are you struggling with loneliness, low self-esteem, or anxiety? Many times these issues lead to addictions, ADHD, insomnia/poor sleep, and relationship conflicts. Are you feeling stuck in life or in a situation that continues to repeat itself? Together we can address the issues most important to you on your journey towards a healthier, more fulfilling life.
(520) 597-5263 View (520) 597-5263

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer J Spencer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Jennifer J Spencer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
I am a licensed professional counselor looking to work with people who are wanting to make lasting changes for themselves, to better their relationships, enjoy life and make an overall life worth living. I work with you to meet your needs/goals by utilizing various evidence-based techniques such as DBT, ACT, and EMDR.
I am a licensed professional counselor looking to work with people who are wanting to make lasting changes for themselves, to better their relationships, enjoy life and make an overall life worth living. I work with you to meet your needs/goals by utilizing various evidence-based techniques such as DBT, ACT, and EMDR.
(520) 348-2149 View (520) 348-2149
Photo of Michael G Simpson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Michael G Simpson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSc, LPC, ACA
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704
Therapeutic skills like CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy are some of many resource wells from which I draw.
Have you have looked hard and walked long seeking a sense of wellness and peace of mind? Dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, trauma, or any behavioral health or relationship issue can become overwhelming. In reality, these issues often occur together where symptoms of one can mimic another and symptoms of one can drive another, requiring experienced help. There is always a reliable way forward toward recovering health, no matter how long you have been struggling with your issues or relationships, or how hopeless they feel. Let me walk with you on your journey toward wellness.
Therapeutic skills like CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy are some of many resource wells from which I draw.
Have you have looked hard and walked long seeking a sense of wellness and peace of mind? Dealing with issues like depression, anxiety, substance use disorder, trauma, or any behavioral health or relationship issue can become overwhelming. In reality, these issues often occur together where symptoms of one can mimic another and symptoms of one can drive another, requiring experienced help. There is always a reliable way forward toward recovering health, no matter how long you have been struggling with your issues or relationships, or how hopeless they feel. Let me walk with you on your journey toward wellness.
(520) 210-5329 View (520) 210-5329
Photo of Dr. Jesus Magana, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Dr. Jesus Magana
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85710
I have extensive training in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Does it seem like living the life you desire is out of reach but somehow easy for others? Does it feel like you take a step forward just to run into a wall of anxiety, depression and/or anger blocking your path? Know now you come by these feelings honestly. Past losses/traumas can easily set up this reoccurring pattern. I truly understand how this happens and yet wholeheartedly believe that you can live a connected & vibrant life. I also know that working through the past in a safe space is crucial to breaking free. You may not remember the last time you truly felt safe, so my goal is to create an environment where healing can begin
I have extensive training in EMDR and Mindfulness Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Does it seem like living the life you desire is out of reach but somehow easy for others? Does it feel like you take a step forward just to run into a wall of anxiety, depression and/or anger blocking your path? Know now you come by these feelings honestly. Past losses/traumas can easily set up this reoccurring pattern. I truly understand how this happens and yet wholeheartedly believe that you can live a connected & vibrant life. I also know that working through the past in a safe space is crucial to breaking free. You may not remember the last time you truly felt safe, so my goal is to create an environment where healing can begin
(520) 276-1195 View (520) 276-1195
Photo of Cathy L Zipp, Licensed Professional Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Cathy L Zipp
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
Practicing EMDR for 15 years and kicking butt with Transgender Teens and Young Adults.
If you're ready for a kick-butt therapist, let's talk. I teach, support, inspire, give homework-and hold you accountable for making progress. Advanced techniques in EMDR will restore stability FAST. You will have fun again SOON & heal your traumas FOR GOOD. Big T & little t trauma work will pay off. It requires an investment of time & money, and you are worth it. Plan to cry & laugh a lot. My book, MidLife with Style, hit #1 on Amazon. Thanks everyone! I'll show you how to kick butt in Mid Life!
Practicing EMDR for 15 years and kicking butt with Transgender Teens and Young Adults.
If you're ready for a kick-butt therapist, let's talk. I teach, support, inspire, give homework-and hold you accountable for making progress. Advanced techniques in EMDR will restore stability FAST. You will have fun again SOON & heal your traumas FOR GOOD. Big T & little t trauma work will pay off. It requires an investment of time & money, and you are worth it. Plan to cry & laugh a lot. My book, MidLife with Style, hit #1 on Amazon. Thanks everyone! I'll show you how to kick butt in Mid Life!
(520) 401-5995 View (520) 401-5995
Photo of Alicia Donovan, Licensed Professional Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Alicia Donovan
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC-S, NCC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oro Valley, AZ 85704
I most often use EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy and Sandtray therapy interventions.
Seeking help? Good for you.. and remember, there is nothing “wrong with you”. Like many, you have been faced with challenges that have overwhelmed your available resources. Each person has the capacity to function in a healthy way. I believe that emotional responses, especially stress, occur on a spectrum that can range from healthy to dysfunctional. My goal is to create an environment in which you can regard yourself positively while learning to work through helpful solutions.
I most often use EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Play Therapy and Sandtray therapy interventions.
Seeking help? Good for you.. and remember, there is nothing “wrong with you”. Like many, you have been faced with challenges that have overwhelmed your available resources. Each person has the capacity to function in a healthy way. I believe that emotional responses, especially stress, occur on a spectrum that can range from healthy to dysfunctional. My goal is to create an environment in which you can regard yourself positively while learning to work through helpful solutions.
(520) 214-0953 View (520) 214-0953
Photo of Nicoline Mayger Counseling LLC, Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Nicoline Mayger Counseling LLC
Counselor, LPC, NCC, BC-DMT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85718  (Online Only)
My extensive experience includes adults, families and children in outpatient and inpatient settings in various states. I focus on women's therapy in private practice, and I am passionate about increasing their confidence, emotional strength, successful coping strategies, and empowerment. Clients find solutions never thought possible. I am also certified in EMDR, and the technology I use is highly effective for telehealth sessions.
My extensive experience includes adults, families and children in outpatient and inpatient settings in various states. I focus on women's therapy in private practice, and I am passionate about increasing their confidence, emotional strength, successful coping strategies, and empowerment. Clients find solutions never thought possible. I am also certified in EMDR, and the technology I use is highly effective for telehealth sessions.
(520) 369-4436 View (520) 369-4436
Photo of Daia G Stager, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Daia G Stager
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LMSW, C-EMDR, TAI CHI, YOGI
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85712
In 2016, Daia added EMDR certification for trauma reduction and performance enhancement.
AlphaPsy is a psychosomatic process - people discover how undigested, petrified, exploding or imploding emotions, beliefs, and expectations manifest as your stress responses. The process supports you in developing wisdom and skills to face onerous challenges or repetitive stressors, either personally or professionally, that have left you with intrusive thoughts, feeling overwhelmed and debilitated, particularly, when you feel that someone has betrayed your desire to do good, coopted your wisdom or has used your strength against you. AlphaPsy LLC is owned by masters psychotherapist under the clinical supervision of Jane Miclon, LCSW.
In 2016, Daia added EMDR certification for trauma reduction and performance enhancement.
AlphaPsy is a psychosomatic process - people discover how undigested, petrified, exploding or imploding emotions, beliefs, and expectations manifest as your stress responses. The process supports you in developing wisdom and skills to face onerous challenges or repetitive stressors, either personally or professionally, that have left you with intrusive thoughts, feeling overwhelmed and debilitated, particularly, when you feel that someone has betrayed your desire to do good, coopted your wisdom or has used your strength against you. AlphaPsy LLC is owned by masters psychotherapist under the clinical supervision of Jane Miclon, LCSW.
(520) 436-8158 View (520) 436-8158
Photo of Selina Perea, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Selina Perea
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85704  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), in combination with various approaches tailored to meet each client's unique needs.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, wounds from our past, life adjustments, and relationship conflicts can severely influence how we show up from day to day. You deserve the healing and growth to meet your unique goals. I work with each client, prioritizing safety and validation of each concern, while learning each unique story and working at your pace. I also focus on exploring and building strengths, as we work together to find relief from the discomfort that brings you here. I am committed to walking along with you, guiding you with the best fit tools, and supporting you in your process.
I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), in combination with various approaches tailored to meet each client's unique needs.
Struggling with anxiety, depression, wounds from our past, life adjustments, and relationship conflicts can severely influence how we show up from day to day. You deserve the healing and growth to meet your unique goals. I work with each client, prioritizing safety and validation of each concern, while learning each unique story and working at your pace. I also focus on exploring and building strengths, as we work together to find relief from the discomfort that brings you here. I am committed to walking along with you, guiding you with the best fit tools, and supporting you in your process.
(520) 636-8109 View (520) 636-8109
Photo of Robin Green, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Robin Green
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85730  (Online Only)
As a therapist with expertise in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and EMDR, I focus on helping clients heal from trauma and diminish negative self-beliefs.
In my practice, I specialize in helping adults who've endured trauma and are battling its lingering effects. You may struggle with self-doubt and intense emotions, impacting your relationships. Our work together will be customized to address these deep-rooted beliefs and improve emotional control. You're not just looking for change; you're prepared to engage in a meaningful therapeutic process. Together, we'll focus on healing and empowering you, transforming your narrative into one of strength and resilience.
As a therapist with expertise in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and EMDR, I focus on helping clients heal from trauma and diminish negative self-beliefs.
In my practice, I specialize in helping adults who've endured trauma and are battling its lingering effects. You may struggle with self-doubt and intense emotions, impacting your relationships. Our work together will be customized to address these deep-rooted beliefs and improve emotional control. You're not just looking for change; you're prepared to engage in a meaningful therapeutic process. Together, we'll focus on healing and empowering you, transforming your narrative into one of strength and resilience.
(520) 363-6915 View (520) 363-6915
Photo of Margaret Adcock, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Margaret Adcock
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85719
Waitlist for new clients
I use a variety of modalities including cognitive therapies, EMDR, IFS, and person-centered therapy.
I offer a caring and non-judgmental approach to therapy designed to help you increase your capacity to greet your life with flexibility, compassion, and curiosity. My goal is to help you feel more engaged and empowered in your life by building on your own insights and strengths as well as helping you gently expand your willingness and creativity in facing difficulty. Together we will work towards healing distress and increasing your satisfaction in yourself and in your relationships.
I use a variety of modalities including cognitive therapies, EMDR, IFS, and person-centered therapy.
I offer a caring and non-judgmental approach to therapy designed to help you increase your capacity to greet your life with flexibility, compassion, and curiosity. My goal is to help you feel more engaged and empowered in your life by building on your own insights and strengths as well as helping you gently expand your willingness and creativity in facing difficulty. Together we will work towards healing distress and increasing your satisfaction in yourself and in your relationships.
(520) 666-7509 View (520) 666-7509
Photo of Lauren M Impraim, Licensed Professional Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Lauren M Impraim
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vail, AZ 85641  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in Level 1- and Level 2 EMDR.
Therapeutic rapport is essential in healing. It is important to allow people to grow in their own time, while holding space for their process. My goal is to promote a safe and comfortable environment to work through past wounds and help in building resilience. I work from an empathetic, but empowering approach. I have worked in many diverse therapeutic populations; with over 15 years of experience. I am passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them grow. I can work with many different presenting issues; including mood dysregulation, substance abuse, relationship struggles, distorted body image, trauma, etc.
I am also trained in Level 1- and Level 2 EMDR.
Therapeutic rapport is essential in healing. It is important to allow people to grow in their own time, while holding space for their process. My goal is to promote a safe and comfortable environment to work through past wounds and help in building resilience. I work from an empathetic, but empowering approach. I have worked in many diverse therapeutic populations; with over 15 years of experience. I am passionate about meeting people where they are and helping them grow. I can work with many different presenting issues; including mood dysregulation, substance abuse, relationship struggles, distorted body image, trauma, etc.
(815) 384-1327 View (815) 384-1327
Photo of Heather Moore, Drug & Alcohol Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Heather Moore
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, LISAC, MAC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Tucson, AZ 85719
Waitlist for new clients
I offer several modalities for the treatment of addiction and trauma including but not limited to EMDR, IFS, Jungian/ dreamwork, somatic breathwork, and ACT.
I have been working in the field of addiction counseling for 18 years. I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Master’s degree in Addiction Counseling in 2014. I am Independently licensed in the state of Arizona and also Nationally Licensed as a Master Addiction Counselor. I specialize in the treatment of individuals and their family members suffering from chemical addiction and substance abuse. I also specialize in trauma and provide EMDR to address trauma/ substance abuse or both. I work with adults exclusively but will see children/ adolescents if the issue is addiction related.
I offer several modalities for the treatment of addiction and trauma including but not limited to EMDR, IFS, Jungian/ dreamwork, somatic breathwork, and ACT.
I have been working in the field of addiction counseling for 18 years. I graduated from Grand Canyon University with a Master’s degree in Addiction Counseling in 2014. I am Independently licensed in the state of Arizona and also Nationally Licensed as a Master Addiction Counselor. I specialize in the treatment of individuals and their family members suffering from chemical addiction and substance abuse. I also specialize in trauma and provide EMDR to address trauma/ substance abuse or both. I work with adults exclusively but will see children/ adolescents if the issue is addiction related.
(520) 317-7415 View (520) 317-7415
Photo of Casey Swenson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Casey Swenson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC-S, NCC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85718
I specialize in EMDR and DBT and strive to help others make sense of complex emotions and thoughts.
Have you been struggling with trauma, emotional pain, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or lack of support? Or have you experienced grief, loss, or complications in your relationships? Whether these feelings are temporary or lifelong, we do not need to continue with struggling alone. If life has been difficult or unmanageable, we can come together to find balance, understanding, and relief. In addition to therapy services, I offer Clinical Supervision to therapy licensees to guide them on their journey of licensure, providing ethical and compassionate supervision. Sessions offered in person or telehealth, weekends and evenings.
I specialize in EMDR and DBT and strive to help others make sense of complex emotions and thoughts.
Have you been struggling with trauma, emotional pain, thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or lack of support? Or have you experienced grief, loss, or complications in your relationships? Whether these feelings are temporary or lifelong, we do not need to continue with struggling alone. If life has been difficult or unmanageable, we can come together to find balance, understanding, and relief. In addition to therapy services, I offer Clinical Supervision to therapy licensees to guide them on their journey of licensure, providing ethical and compassionate supervision. Sessions offered in person or telehealth, weekends and evenings.
(520) 379-7351 View (520) 379-7351
Photo of Amaya Herrington, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Amaya Herrington
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85701
I use EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), Hypnotherapy, somatic practices, and energy work (based in Reiki).
My ideal client is someone who is a highly sensitive individual seeking a seasoned therapist for a transformative journey. You might consider yourself naturally curious, you've navigated various approaches without finding lasting relief, and you're looking for a creative and nuanced approach. You may crave confidence and autonomy but find yourself struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, frustration, and disappointment in yourself as well as your relationships. From my experience, I know how to effectively support you in envisioning and manifesting something that is beyond your ability to imagine just yet.
I use EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), Hypnotherapy, somatic practices, and energy work (based in Reiki).
My ideal client is someone who is a highly sensitive individual seeking a seasoned therapist for a transformative journey. You might consider yourself naturally curious, you've navigated various approaches without finding lasting relief, and you're looking for a creative and nuanced approach. You may crave confidence and autonomy but find yourself struggling with anxiety, self-doubt, frustration, and disappointment in yourself as well as your relationships. From my experience, I know how to effectively support you in envisioning and manifesting something that is beyond your ability to imagine just yet.
(312) 313-9908 View (312) 313-9908
Photo of Laura Blackman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Cruz County, AZ
Laura Blackman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Tucson, AZ 85711
My therapeutic approach is individualized and eclectic using cognitive behavioral techniques, solution-focused techniques, acceptance and commitment techniques, and EMDR from a strong perspective of mindfulness and self acceptance.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working with adults facing a wide range of mental health and relationship needs. My clientele includes people who are in crisis, those who have experienced trauma, those with ongoing support needs, and often a combination of all of three. It is important to me that my practice welcomes and includes adults of varying ages, ethnic and racial identities, gender identities, sexual identities, and those with a variety of abilities and disabilities.
My therapeutic approach is individualized and eclectic using cognitive behavioral techniques, solution-focused techniques, acceptance and commitment techniques, and EMDR from a strong perspective of mindfulness and self acceptance.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive experience working with adults facing a wide range of mental health and relationship needs. My clientele includes people who are in crisis, those who have experienced trauma, those with ongoing support needs, and often a combination of all of three. It is important to me that my practice welcomes and includes adults of varying ages, ethnic and racial identities, gender identities, sexual identities, and those with a variety of abilities and disabilities.
(520) 369-4184 View (520) 369-4184

See more therapy options for Santa Cruz County

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.