EMDR Therapists in Alamo, CA

Photo of Kaitlin Walker, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Kaitlin Walker
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alamo, CA 94507  (Online Only)
I integrate mindfulness, meditation, somatic psychotherapies (mind/body therapy), Eastern philosophy, Internal Family Systems, Nature, and EMDR into sessions to support you in having whole-being breakthroughs.
Hi, I'm Kaitlin! Are you exhausted from trying to "do it all" and struggle to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Do you feel stuck and disconnected from purpose in your life? Do you feel lost in old habitual patterns that no longer support the life you want to live, uncertain how to find your way out? Whether you're experiencing stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ concerns, relationship challenges, trauma, low confidence, and/or life transitions, I'm here to help. It takes a lot of strength and courage to journey toward a more fulfilling and happy life. If you’re ready to take the next step, I am here to support and empower you
I integrate mindfulness, meditation, somatic psychotherapies (mind/body therapy), Eastern philosophy, Internal Family Systems, Nature, and EMDR into sessions to support you in having whole-being breakthroughs.
Hi, I'm Kaitlin! Are you exhausted from trying to "do it all" and struggle to keep up with your relationships, work, and health? Do you feel stuck and disconnected from purpose in your life? Do you feel lost in old habitual patterns that no longer support the life you want to live, uncertain how to find your way out? Whether you're experiencing stress, anxiety, lgbtq+ concerns, relationship challenges, trauma, low confidence, and/or life transitions, I'm here to help. It takes a lot of strength and courage to journey toward a more fulfilling and happy life. If you’re ready to take the next step, I am here to support and empower you
(925) 493-8114 View (925) 493-8114
Photo of Janie Sheedy, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Janie Sheedy
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA-MFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alamo, CA 94507
I am a Board Certified EMDR clinician (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) as well as an EMDR Consultant with EMDR International Association (EMDRIA).
It is said that to the degree that you can't experience pain is to the degree that you can't experience joy. To be human is to feel and to feel is to experience both joy and sadness and everything in between. As a therapist, I help people experience joy unencumbered by losses and disappointments of the past, or by present day difficulties. I believe people heal in relationship, therefore my goal is to not only help people with their inner life, but is to equally help people connect with outer resources as well.
I am a Board Certified EMDR clinician (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) as well as an EMDR Consultant with EMDR International Association (EMDRIA).
It is said that to the degree that you can't experience pain is to the degree that you can't experience joy. To be human is to feel and to feel is to experience both joy and sadness and everything in between. As a therapist, I help people experience joy unencumbered by losses and disappointments of the past, or by present day difficulties. I believe people heal in relationship, therefore my goal is to not only help people with their inner life, but is to equally help people connect with outer resources as well.
(925) 968-4735 View (925) 968-4735
Photo of Paul Ginocchio, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Paul Ginocchio
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
Alamo, CA 94507
I am also a certified sex addiction therapist and a Parnell Institute trained EMDR therapist.
I appreciate helping individuals and couples that just want to live better lives, have deeper relationships, and find more joy in day to day living. Life can be tough. Good therapy offers support, a place to be heard, guidance, and sometimes a place to hear truths that you may not want to hear, but need to hear. I offer a supportive and direct approach to those needing help with sex and relationship issues, anxiety, depression, anger management, trauma, and addictions. I also have a special spot in my heart to support those who have dealt with loss, whether recently or many years ago. Therapy is a space to adapt, stretch, and grow.
I am also a certified sex addiction therapist and a Parnell Institute trained EMDR therapist.
I appreciate helping individuals and couples that just want to live better lives, have deeper relationships, and find more joy in day to day living. Life can be tough. Good therapy offers support, a place to be heard, guidance, and sometimes a place to hear truths that you may not want to hear, but need to hear. I offer a supportive and direct approach to those needing help with sex and relationship issues, anxiety, depression, anger management, trauma, and addictions. I also have a special spot in my heart to support those who have dealt with loss, whether recently or many years ago. Therapy is a space to adapt, stretch, and grow.
(925) 329-3572 View (925) 329-3572
Photo of Haley Hewitt, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Haley Hewitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, E-RYT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Alamo, CA 94507
Waitlist for new clients
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
My name is Haley Hewitt and I specialize in individual, couples, and family therapy. I believe that because we are complex and unique individuals, an approach that integrates both mind and body is essential for the healing, growth, and resiliency that is the goal of therapeutic counseling. Treatment specializations include: depression and anxiety, couples counseling, children and adolescents, psychedelic-assisted therapies, stress and/or pain management, life transitions, self-esteem, mental illness/mental health issues, gender and/or sexual identity, and LGBTQIA. I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting, IFS, DBT/CBT & Somatics.
(925) 275-5742 View (925) 275-5742
Photo of Darcy Manav, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Darcy Manav
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alamo, CA 94507  (Online Only)
I integrate talk therapy, EMDR, IFS, mind-body techniques, eastern practices and often humor.
My therapeutic intention is to cultivate a collaborative space to foster personal growth, healing and self-awareness. You will feel supported each step of the way as we navigate your inner landscape and life, identifying any issues keeping you feeling lost, stuck or disconnected. We’ll explore tools to promote emotional resilience, process unresolved traumas and experience a more grounded and empowered sense of self. Because therapy is not a one size fits all experience, sessions and treatment goals are tailored to meet your specific needs and desires for positive growth and change.
I integrate talk therapy, EMDR, IFS, mind-body techniques, eastern practices and often humor.
My therapeutic intention is to cultivate a collaborative space to foster personal growth, healing and self-awareness. You will feel supported each step of the way as we navigate your inner landscape and life, identifying any issues keeping you feeling lost, stuck or disconnected. We’ll explore tools to promote emotional resilience, process unresolved traumas and experience a more grounded and empowered sense of self. Because therapy is not a one size fits all experience, sessions and treatment goals are tailored to meet your specific needs and desires for positive growth and change.
(424) 365-8031 View (424) 365-8031
Photo of Nikki Chinen, Pre-Licensed Professional in Alamo, CA
Nikki Chinen
Pre-Licensed Professional, ACSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Alamo, CA 94507
I utilize EMDR, DBT, CBT, mindfulness, parts-work, and strengths-based approaches.
Ready to prioritize your mental health and well-being? Let's do this! As a therapist (and a human being), I get that life can be overwhelming. Whether it's battling anxiety, depression, surviving tough times, or just trying to figure out what the heck you're doing in life—I'm here to support you. I work with clients who have a desire to be their authentic self, navigating life transitions, struggle with setting healthy boundaries, or may be feeling like something is “missing” in their life. My clients share that I have been a positive support in helping them work through their challenges, in addition to creating a life they desire.
I utilize EMDR, DBT, CBT, mindfulness, parts-work, and strengths-based approaches.
Ready to prioritize your mental health and well-being? Let's do this! As a therapist (and a human being), I get that life can be overwhelming. Whether it's battling anxiety, depression, surviving tough times, or just trying to figure out what the heck you're doing in life—I'm here to support you. I work with clients who have a desire to be their authentic self, navigating life transitions, struggle with setting healthy boundaries, or may be feeling like something is “missing” in their life. My clients share that I have been a positive support in helping them work through their challenges, in addition to creating a life they desire.
(818) 446-1946 View (818) 446-1946
Photo of Shalini Mongia, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Shalini Mongia
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Alamo, CA 94507
Therapy is a process of healing, growth, and change. Changing patterns that aren't working and creating positive change, while feeling more happiness in your relationships, work, family, life, and self. Therapy provides an opportunity to discuss struggles, decrease stress, increase understanding of self and others, find solutions, and create positive change. I am the owner of Alamo Counseling, a group private practice comprised of highly skilled, warm, and engaging therapists and educators. We implement evidence-based treatment with interventions from humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic therapies.
Therapy is a process of healing, growth, and change. Changing patterns that aren't working and creating positive change, while feeling more happiness in your relationships, work, family, life, and self. Therapy provides an opportunity to discuss struggles, decrease stress, increase understanding of self and others, find solutions, and create positive change. I am the owner of Alamo Counseling, a group private practice comprised of highly skilled, warm, and engaging therapists and educators. We implement evidence-based treatment with interventions from humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic therapies.
(925) 392-4042 View (925) 392-4042
Photo of Alamo Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Alamo Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS, AMFT, PsyD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alamo, CA 94507
Alamo Counseling is a group private practice comprised of highly skilled, warm, and engaging counselors and educators. Our services include specialized therapy and wellness solutions for our clients, as well as clinical consultation and continuing education trainings for mental health professionals. Our clinicians implement evidence-based treatment with interventions from humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic therapies. We help get to the root of your concerns and empower you with strategies and insights to achieve your goals.
Alamo Counseling is a group private practice comprised of highly skilled, warm, and engaging counselors and educators. Our services include specialized therapy and wellness solutions for our clients, as well as clinical consultation and continuing education trainings for mental health professionals. Our clinicians implement evidence-based treatment with interventions from humanistic, cognitive-behavioral, and systemic therapies. We help get to the root of your concerns and empower you with strategies and insights to achieve your goals.
(925) 578-3812 x1 View (925) 578-3812 x1
Photo of Community Presbyterian Counseling Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Community Presbyterian Counseling Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Alamo, CA 94507
Community Presbyterian Counseling Center provides a safe and confidential setting to enable people to heal emotionally, relationally, and spiritually. Counseling services are provided to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Our professional staff are here to assist you with: handling life's transitions and loss; conquering addictions; managing stress; coping with depression and anxiety; strengthening marriage and family relationships; and discovering spiritual resources for healing. We are available for both in-person and video sessions.
Community Presbyterian Counseling Center provides a safe and confidential setting to enable people to heal emotionally, relationally, and spiritually. Counseling services are provided to individuals, couples, families, and groups. Our professional staff are here to assist you with: handling life's transitions and loss; conquering addictions; managing stress; coping with depression and anxiety; strengthening marriage and family relationships; and discovering spiritual resources for healing. We are available for both in-person and video sessions.
(925) 231-8166 View (925) 231-8166
Photo of Christina Dughman, Psychologist in Alamo, CA
Christina Dughman
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Alamo, CA 94507  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I believe that we are all intrinsically motivated to move towards health--physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Whether I am working with children, teens, or adults, I partner with my clients to better understand them as cultural beings and how their uniqueness is impacted by their experiences in the world. I offer a warm, nurturing, and accepting style and show deep interest in an authentic therapeutic relationship. My goal is to support my clients towards insight and overall balance.
I believe that we are all intrinsically motivated to move towards health--physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Whether I am working with children, teens, or adults, I partner with my clients to better understand them as cultural beings and how their uniqueness is impacted by their experiences in the world. I offer a warm, nurturing, and accepting style and show deep interest in an authentic therapeutic relationship. My goal is to support my clients towards insight and overall balance.
(510) 863-1459 View (510) 863-1459
Photo of Silver Lake Psychology, Psychologist in Alamo, CA
Silver Lake Psychology
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Alamo, CA 94507
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
Learn how to feel more connected to yourself, others, and the world around you. Therapy provides all the elements of intimacy: honest communication, vulnerability, and trust. Good therapy is challenging yet warm, providing both structure and empathy for your unique experience.
(415) 649-1656 View (415) 649-1656
Photo of Pathway Therapy Center, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Pathway Therapy Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CSAT-S
Verified Verified
Alamo, CA 94507
At Pathway Therapy Center we help individuals and couples repair find recovery from sex and pornography addiction. Is your relationship in crisis because of a recent discovery? Have you just found out about your partner's affair or betrayal? Do you have a problem with a process addiction such as video gaming or compulsive spending? We are here to help with a team of expertly trained clinicians who specialize in helping those dealing with sexually addictive patterns and other process addictions. Further we have specialists who help partners deal with the impacts of having discovered that their relationship was not what they once thought it was.
At Pathway Therapy Center we help individuals and couples repair find recovery from sex and pornography addiction. Is your relationship in crisis because of a recent discovery? Have you just found out about your partner's affair or betrayal? Do you have a problem with a process addiction such as video gaming or compulsive spending? We are here to help with a team of expertly trained clinicians who specialize in helping those dealing with sexually addictive patterns and other process addictions. Further we have specialists who help partners deal with the impacts of having discovered that their relationship was not what they once thought it was.
(510) 767-0880 View (510) 767-0880

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Diane Anderson, Psychologist in Alamo, CA
Diane Anderson
Psychologist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Danville, CA 94526
As a neuropsychologist, I use EMDR, the gold standard for trauma treatment, to re-wire your anxiety, depression, guilt and shame to improve your wellbeing.
The majority of my practice has focused on anxiety, depression, and relationship catastrophes. Maybe you have experienced childhood trauma which takes many forms and continues to impact your adult relationships, functioning and wellbeing. Maybe you live with someone who causes harm or is controlling, antagonistic and narcissistic. Maybe you want to see if your relationship with your children or partner can be restored. Maybe you are super worried about your child and seek guidance for yourself or them. Maybe you struggle with guilt and shame and finally want to rid yourself of that stress.
As a neuropsychologist, I use EMDR, the gold standard for trauma treatment, to re-wire your anxiety, depression, guilt and shame to improve your wellbeing.
The majority of my practice has focused on anxiety, depression, and relationship catastrophes. Maybe you have experienced childhood trauma which takes many forms and continues to impact your adult relationships, functioning and wellbeing. Maybe you live with someone who causes harm or is controlling, antagonistic and narcissistic. Maybe you want to see if your relationship with your children or partner can be restored. Maybe you are super worried about your child and seek guidance for yourself or them. Maybe you struggle with guilt and shame and finally want to rid yourself of that stress.
(925) 291-9624 View (925) 291-9624
Photo of Correna Kelley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Correna Kelley
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94526
I also utilize EMDR therapy.
Welcome! If you are looking through these sites, it means that you or a family member could use some support. I work with teens, adults, and families. My experience consists of supporting adolescents, adults and their families, in the school, home and managed health care setting. I have helped teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma develop strategies for managing symptoms. I have supported students with Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and provided trainings for teachers and families to support children and teens in the school, home, and community settings. I am trauma informed and EMDR trained.
I also utilize EMDR therapy.
Welcome! If you are looking through these sites, it means that you or a family member could use some support. I work with teens, adults, and families. My experience consists of supporting adolescents, adults and their families, in the school, home and managed health care setting. I have helped teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, stress, and trauma develop strategies for managing symptoms. I have supported students with Individualized Education Plans (IEP) and provided trainings for teachers and families to support children and teens in the school, home, and community settings. I am trauma informed and EMDR trained.
(925) 854-4255 View (925) 854-4255
Photo of Don Elium, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Don Elium
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
Trained in EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, Gottman Couples Method, Developmental Couple Therapy, Discernment Counseling, Grief Recovery, & NVC that helps talk therapy bring about emotional, mental- behavioral changes to bring the best to you to your life circumstances.
Trying to make something work by pretending to feel, think or act in ways that go against how you really feel is exhausting to the body, mind and your spirit. This realization can feel very uncomfortable. However, it is the door to finding both your aliveness and yourself as you investigate what you really feel and think about the situations that are distressing in yourself, family and work situations. I'd like to help you make the actual changes that you need to make. I help you find and focus on what is actually alive in you. All sessions are TeleHealth that creates a safe environment in the convenience of your home or office.
Trained in EMDR, Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing, Internal Family Systems, Gottman Couples Method, Developmental Couple Therapy, Discernment Counseling, Grief Recovery, & NVC that helps talk therapy bring about emotional, mental- behavioral changes to bring the best to you to your life circumstances.
Trying to make something work by pretending to feel, think or act in ways that go against how you really feel is exhausting to the body, mind and your spirit. This realization can feel very uncomfortable. However, it is the door to finding both your aliveness and yourself as you investigate what you really feel and think about the situations that are distressing in yourself, family and work situations. I'd like to help you make the actual changes that you need to make. I help you find and focus on what is actually alive in you. All sessions are TeleHealth that creates a safe environment in the convenience of your home or office.
(925) 948-8811 View (925) 948-8811
Photo of Phillip H Lolonis, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Alamo, 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
Photo of Nicole Justine Byrne, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Nicole Justine Byrne
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94596  (Online Only)
You're seeking more out of your life - more peace, fun, play, fulfillment, meaning. You want more connection in relationship - where your needs matter too. You want more trust in yourself - to feel grounded again, not spinning or spread thin. You want to engage in your career and interests in a way that fills you up and relate to others with ease. All of this is possible. Sometimes we just need to be deeply listened to and then guided to pivot in new ways as we move through what's hard, in order to reach your fullest potential.
You're seeking more out of your life - more peace, fun, play, fulfillment, meaning. You want more connection in relationship - where your needs matter too. You want more trust in yourself - to feel grounded again, not spinning or spread thin. You want to engage in your career and interests in a way that fills you up and relate to others with ease. All of this is possible. Sometimes we just need to be deeply listened to and then guided to pivot in new ways as we move through what's hard, in order to reach your fullest potential.
(323) 870-7925 View (323) 870-7925
Photo of Jerolyn Peery, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Jerolyn Peery, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
To become more intimate or connected to others, we need to improve the quality of connection to ourselves. I work with children, teens and adults. I specialize in working with individuals who are seeking personal empowerment in their lives. There are many life events, situations, or relationships that interfere with one's sense of empowerment. When feeling disempowered, one's capacity to access a full self becomes limited.
To become more intimate or connected to others, we need to improve the quality of connection to ourselves. I work with children, teens and adults. I specialize in working with individuals who are seeking personal empowerment in their lives. There are many life events, situations, or relationships that interfere with one's sense of empowerment. When feeling disempowered, one's capacity to access a full self becomes limited.
(925) 247-8714 View (925) 247-8714
Photo of Julie Levin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Alamo, CA
Julie Levin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Walnut Creek, CA 94595  (Online Only)
Are you too hard on yourself, driven to achieve or be perfect as though you might be in trouble otherwise? Do you find that constant striving is wearing you out? Maybe you're tired. Maybe you're in pain or dealing with chronic illness after ignoring your body's signals for rest, play, and comfort. Maybe you've been working your butt off to care for others or please them, only to find they don't really appreciate you. This is what we do when we feel not-good-enough. We work really hard, hoping that some achievement or accolade will finally make us feel okay.
Are you too hard on yourself, driven to achieve or be perfect as though you might be in trouble otherwise? Do you find that constant striving is wearing you out? Maybe you're tired. Maybe you're in pain or dealing with chronic illness after ignoring your body's signals for rest, play, and comfort. Maybe you've been working your butt off to care for others or please them, only to find they don't really appreciate you. This is what we do when we feel not-good-enough. We work really hard, hoping that some achievement or accolade will finally make us feel okay.
(925) 233-4700 View (925) 233-4700
Photo of Jarrett Humble, Associate Professional Clinical Counselor in Alamo, CA
Jarrett Humble
Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, APCC
Verified Verified
Danville, CA 94526  (Online Only)
Are you frustrated with the direction of your life? Do you feel like you're not reaching your full potential? Does it look like your life is put together from the outside ─ but on the inside, you're barely holding it together? Therapy can be intimidating. I get it. But you're in the driver's seat here. As we work together to treat the root cause of your emotional distress, my hope is that you'll find an enhanced capacity to become the best version of yourself.
Are you frustrated with the direction of your life? Do you feel like you're not reaching your full potential? Does it look like your life is put together from the outside ─ but on the inside, you're barely holding it together? Therapy can be intimidating. I get it. But you're in the driver's seat here. As we work together to treat the root cause of your emotional distress, my hope is that you'll find an enhanced capacity to become the best version of yourself.
(831) 218-2398 View (831) 218-2398

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.