Photo of Martha Gleason, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Martha Gleason
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93923
I am a licensed Psychologist with 25 years experience, prepared to help with many of life's challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse & other addictions, as well effective communication in all types of relationships. All of these obstacles can be navigated successfully with the right tools. Cognitive Behavioral Therapies are outcome proven methods of coping with negative & painful emotions. The right skills can teach you how to help yourself.
I am a licensed Psychologist with 25 years experience, prepared to help with many of life's challenges such as depression, anxiety, substance abuse & other addictions, as well effective communication in all types of relationships. All of these obstacles can be navigated successfully with the right tools. Cognitive Behavioral Therapies are outcome proven methods of coping with negative & painful emotions. The right skills can teach you how to help yourself.
(831) 402-6471 View (831) 402-6471

Online Therapists

Photo of Lauren Jones, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Lauren Jones
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (Online Only)
You are uncomfortable - Something is bothering you. You need resolution about an issue, event, experience or relationship. I work in a collaborative/relational model with people who have had experiences that they have not fully integrated yet. I use talk therapy, imagery, metaphor, hypnosis, EMDR, Positive Psychology, and Sensorimotor. Often clients report being disinterested in a formerly distressing topic after treatment. I'm comfortable working many types of issues including trauma, PTSD, ACA, sexual abuse, panic attacks or phobias, anxiety or depression, losses or relationship breakups, people with mysterious physical ailments.
You are uncomfortable - Something is bothering you. You need resolution about an issue, event, experience or relationship. I work in a collaborative/relational model with people who have had experiences that they have not fully integrated yet. I use talk therapy, imagery, metaphor, hypnosis, EMDR, Positive Psychology, and Sensorimotor. Often clients report being disinterested in a formerly distressing topic after treatment. I'm comfortable working many types of issues including trauma, PTSD, ACA, sexual abuse, panic attacks or phobias, anxiety or depression, losses or relationship breakups, people with mysterious physical ailments.
(831) 824-4945 View (831) 824-4945
Photo of Erika Abrahamian, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Carmel, CA
Erika Abrahamian
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MFA, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
My style is direct, relational, and compassionate; my toolbox includes mindfulness and somatic awareness, attachment-theory, parts work, EMDR, and DBT.
Welcome. Finding a therapist is not always an easy process; I am glad you've found your way here. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or have experienced trauma and adversity, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can find some relief. I specialize in treating complex trauma and PTSD, depression and anxiety. My clients include adolescents, adults and couples, with a special interest in working with immigrants and children of immigrants. Working with couples navigating life transitions is also a passion of mine.
My style is direct, relational, and compassionate; my toolbox includes mindfulness and somatic awareness, attachment-theory, parts work, EMDR, and DBT.
Welcome. Finding a therapist is not always an easy process; I am glad you've found your way here. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, or have experienced trauma and adversity, I offer a safe and supportive space where you can find some relief. I specialize in treating complex trauma and PTSD, depression and anxiety. My clients include adolescents, adults and couples, with a special interest in working with immigrants and children of immigrants. Working with couples navigating life transitions is also a passion of mine.
(831) 292-4699 View (831) 292-4699
Photo of Dennis Newlin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Dennis Newlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Maria, CA 93458
My therapeutic approach is client-centered, holistic, and informed by a range of evidence-based methodologies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Hi, I'm Dennis Newlin, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with a unique approach that merges counseling psychology with integrative and functional medicine. My practice is rooted in over 30 years of experience, specializing in areas like substance misuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, and domestic violence. I typically work with adults navigating challenges related to substance misuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, and intimate partner violence. I am also comfortable treating conditions related to chronic pain and have a particular interest in lifestyle-related health concerns.
My therapeutic approach is client-centered, holistic, and informed by a range of evidence-based methodologies, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Motivational Interviewing (MI).
Hi, I'm Dennis Newlin, a Licensed Marriage Family Therapist with a unique approach that merges counseling psychology with integrative and functional medicine. My practice is rooted in over 30 years of experience, specializing in areas like substance misuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, and domestic violence. I typically work with adults navigating challenges related to substance misuse, anxiety, depression, trauma, and intimate partner violence. I am also comfortable treating conditions related to chronic pain and have a particular interest in lifestyle-related health concerns.
(805) 360-4678 View (805) 360-4678
Photo of Chevalisa Bruzzone, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Chevalisa Bruzzone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Not Verified Not Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
I have a somatic focus, which means I can help you discover what is happening in your body as a fast track to healing whatever is on your mind. By slowing down and getting present, we can unwind difficulties, move through stuckness and create more capacity for closeness and connection. I have specialized training in Hakomi, EMDR, EFT, PACT and Stanford GSB's Interpersonal Dynamics Facilitator Program. Please call me for a free phone consultation.
I have a somatic focus, which means I can help you discover what is happening in your body as a fast track to healing whatever is on your mind. By slowing down and getting present, we can unwind difficulties, move through stuckness and create more capacity for closeness and connection. I have specialized training in Hakomi, EMDR, EFT, PACT and Stanford GSB's Interpersonal Dynamics Facilitator Program. Please call me for a free phone consultation.
(831) 247-6711 View (831) 247-6711
Photo of Dr. Linnea C Hagens, Psychological Associate in Carmel, CA
Dr. Linnea C Hagens
Psychological Associate, PhD
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I am a trained EMDR therapist for patients with trauma (accidents, abuse, grief and loss) and specialize in Art Therapy where CBT is often used through art therapy directives as the art acts as an alternative language, and helps people of all ages explore emotions.
My name is Dr. Linnea Hagens, a clinical psychological associate for Dr. Tammy Dobbs. I provide personalized therapy aimed to relieve emotional distress and develop goals of improving some aspects of your life. Therapy sessions include examining and gaining insight into life choices and difficulties faced.
I am a trained EMDR therapist for patients with trauma (accidents, abuse, grief and loss) and specialize in Art Therapy where CBT is often used through art therapy directives as the art acts as an alternative language, and helps people of all ages explore emotions.
My name is Dr. Linnea Hagens, a clinical psychological associate for Dr. Tammy Dobbs. I provide personalized therapy aimed to relieve emotional distress and develop goals of improving some aspects of your life. Therapy sessions include examining and gaining insight into life choices and difficulties faced.
(805) 386-9145 View (805) 386-9145
Photo of Denise Bila Seastrunk in Carmel, CA
Denise Bila Seastrunk
RN, CNS, PhD, CTP
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
I am also a certified trauma specialist with certification in EMDR therapy.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
I am also a certified trauma specialist with certification in EMDR therapy.
I treat clients who are experiencing depression, anxiety, life stressors and transitions. I enjoy working with adults and couples who are experiencing all types of issues. Dealing with parenting and adolescence can be challenging, but these are the types of challenges I embrace. Whatever your issues or goals are in therapy, I can provide an integrated way of helping you due to my educational background and varied life experiences.
(805) 244-6785 View (805) 244-6785
Photo of Diana Elwyn, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Diana Elwyn
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Aromas, CA 95004
I am a deeply trained eating disorder specialist with 30 years of clinical experience. I am warm , compassionate, straightforward and bring a commitment to providing the best care I can. As a result of my value in lifelong learning I stay current in the latest research, best practices and evidence-based treatments. My practice is body positive and trauma informed. I hold certifications in Family-Based Treatment, EMDR, and Intuitive Eating and have advanced training in CBT-E, DBT, ACT and Health at Every Size. I am a member of CAMFT, and The Academy for Eating Disorders.
I am a deeply trained eating disorder specialist with 30 years of clinical experience. I am warm , compassionate, straightforward and bring a commitment to providing the best care I can. As a result of my value in lifelong learning I stay current in the latest research, best practices and evidence-based treatments. My practice is body positive and trauma informed. I hold certifications in Family-Based Treatment, EMDR, and Intuitive Eating and have advanced training in CBT-E, DBT, ACT and Health at Every Size. I am a member of CAMFT, and The Academy for Eating Disorders.
(831) 440-8351 View (831) 440-8351
Photo of Jessica R Nichols, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Jessica R Nichols
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060  (Online Only)
I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR.
Feeling overwhelmed, scared, alone, isolated? Unable to express or tolerate your emotions? Therapy can help you take back control of your life, improve your relationships, and manage your moods. It doesn't matter if you're dealing with a new life challenge or a recurrent issue, I believe that therapy can help relieve your symptoms and live a stable and balanced life. I work with adults and adolescents struggling w/ a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, safe and non-judgmental place to explore, understand and resolve issues.
I use a mix of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR.
Feeling overwhelmed, scared, alone, isolated? Unable to express or tolerate your emotions? Therapy can help you take back control of your life, improve your relationships, and manage your moods. It doesn't matter if you're dealing with a new life challenge or a recurrent issue, I believe that therapy can help relieve your symptoms and live a stable and balanced life. I work with adults and adolescents struggling w/ a variety of issues including depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, trauma, and substance use disorders. I offer a supportive, safe and non-judgmental place to explore, understand and resolve issues.
(831) 268-6772 View (831) 268-6772
Photo of Maria Hernandez, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Maria Hernandez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Paso Robles, CA 93446
I also have certifications in the following areas EMDR, Solution Focused, Cognitive behavioral therapy and Batterers intervention program.
I am excited that you are here today. My primary job as a psychotherapist is to assist others in managing issues in life. I enjoy helping others; I like providing the right tools to individuals in order to allow them to see their potential in life; to see them make progress towards their goals. However, this is not my only role in life. I am also a friend, partner, and step-parent who plays a role in who I am today and my personality. I believe my personality is very welcoming to others.
I also have certifications in the following areas EMDR, Solution Focused, Cognitive behavioral therapy and Batterers intervention program.
I am excited that you are here today. My primary job as a psychotherapist is to assist others in managing issues in life. I enjoy helping others; I like providing the right tools to individuals in order to allow them to see their potential in life; to see them make progress towards their goals. However, this is not my only role in life. I am also a friend, partner, and step-parent who plays a role in who I am today and my personality. I believe my personality is very welcoming to others.
(510) 907-7157 View (510) 907-7157
Photo of Jeffrey J Lille, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Jeffrey J Lille
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Arroyo Grande, CA 93421  (Online Only)
I utilize Desensitization, Cognitive/Behavioral techniques, Meditation Training, and EMDR/Bilateral Brain Stimulation for PTSD.
GENERAL BACKGROUND: Psychologist Licensed for over 35 years. Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 40 years. I have worked extensively with individuals, families and couples. I accept Medicare, and some insurances. I will work with you as pertains to costs as necessary to meet budget needs. Currently, I am accepting new clients (updated 08/2023). Major Credit Cards Accepted. It has been my life's work to help others in need and to that end I experience personal satisfaction in seeing you leave treatment a healthier and happier person.
I utilize Desensitization, Cognitive/Behavioral techniques, Meditation Training, and EMDR/Bilateral Brain Stimulation for PTSD.
GENERAL BACKGROUND: Psychologist Licensed for over 35 years. Licensed Clinical Social Worker for over 40 years. I have worked extensively with individuals, families and couples. I accept Medicare, and some insurances. I will work with you as pertains to costs as necessary to meet budget needs. Currently, I am accepting new clients (updated 08/2023). Major Credit Cards Accepted. It has been my life's work to help others in need and to that end I experience personal satisfaction in seeing you leave treatment a healthier and happier person.
(805) 467-7125 View (805) 467-7125
Photo of Suzanne Lerner, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Suzanne Lerner
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Soquel, CA 95073
Are you needing a safe and confidential place to sort through all that is going on, so that you can create a life of Greater Ease, Choice and Connection? Are you needing new skills to help address your “emotional dysregulation” so you have these tools available when you most need them? Somatically-Attuned Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps you creatively reduce inner criticism, shame and anxiety & reclaim a life of Greater Presence, Clarity & Joy. We will use Parts Dialogue, Expressive Arts, EFT Tapping & Guided Visualization to transform your old, critical limiting beliefs into Authentic Compassion, Love & Self-Appreciation!
Are you needing a safe and confidential place to sort through all that is going on, so that you can create a life of Greater Ease, Choice and Connection? Are you needing new skills to help address your “emotional dysregulation” so you have these tools available when you most need them? Somatically-Attuned Internal Family Systems (IFS) helps you creatively reduce inner criticism, shame and anxiety & reclaim a life of Greater Presence, Clarity & Joy. We will use Parts Dialogue, Expressive Arts, EFT Tapping & Guided Visualization to transform your old, critical limiting beliefs into Authentic Compassion, Love & Self-Appreciation!
(831) 244-9589 View (831) 244-9589
Photo of Monika Martynska, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Monika Martynska
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062
Congratulations for taking a step towards creating change. Finding a therapist can be challenging and it is important to find one who is right for you. I offer a free introductory session which we use to get to know each other. Clients often come into my office feeling hopeless or nervous, but usually leave feeling more hopeful and relaxed. I love to see people grow and thrive with the support of therapy. My style is warm, empathic, and collaborative. In our work together we draw on your strengths and wisdom and my goal is to empower you to create a more joyful and fulfilling life.
Congratulations for taking a step towards creating change. Finding a therapist can be challenging and it is important to find one who is right for you. I offer a free introductory session which we use to get to know each other. Clients often come into my office feeling hopeless or nervous, but usually leave feeling more hopeful and relaxed. I love to see people grow and thrive with the support of therapy. My style is warm, empathic, and collaborative. In our work together we draw on your strengths and wisdom and my goal is to empower you to create a more joyful and fulfilling life.
(831) 539-0596 View (831) 539-0596
Photo of Katty (Coffron) Richardson, PhD, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Katty (Coffron) Richardson, PhD, LMFT, LPCC
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LPCC, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Arroyo Grande, CA 93420
Waitlist for new clients
Both life and relationships can be challenging and it is easy to feel confused or hopeless as to how to make things better. You may be struggling with individual issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Or possibly you are dealing with relationship troubles. You may be longing for love and instead feeling disconnected, alone, and hurt. There are answers and options! I have invested in mastering well-researched, scientifically-proven approaches to individual/couples counseling that will help you get back on track! You can call or text me at 805-975-8399. I offer Teletherapy and I can bill any PPO plan for you.
Both life and relationships can be challenging and it is easy to feel confused or hopeless as to how to make things better. You may be struggling with individual issues, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. Or possibly you are dealing with relationship troubles. You may be longing for love and instead feeling disconnected, alone, and hurt. There are answers and options! I have invested in mastering well-researched, scientifically-proven approaches to individual/couples counseling that will help you get back on track! You can call or text me at 805-975-8399. I offer Teletherapy and I can bill any PPO plan for you.
(805) 975-8399 View (805) 975-8399
Photo of Lunda Gill-Desbrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Lunda Gill-Desbrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Gilroy, CA 95020
Hello, thank you for your time. I have always been curious about what motivates a person. I have had my license for over 30 years and have worked in psychology, education, and business. I am a widow with two teenagers and love working on puzzles and being around animals. Feel free to contact me or leave me a message. I look forward to working with you soon!
Hello, thank you for your time. I have always been curious about what motivates a person. I have had my license for over 30 years and have worked in psychology, education, and business. I am a widow with two teenagers and love working on puzzles and being around animals. Feel free to contact me or leave me a message. I look forward to working with you soon!
(951) 450-0181 View (951) 450-0181
Photo of Mary M Kunz, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Mary M Kunz
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93406  (Online Only)
All emotions have a job - to bring something to our attention, to give us information about our world, sometimes to give us the physical energy to take action. I see my role as a therapist would be to help you better understand yourself, and when it fits to teach you tools and skills so that you can be effective in your life. I can be a guide and an ally through many challenges - these include depression and anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, caregiving, life-threatening illnesses, grief and loss. Whatever emotion or situation led you to seek help, you can use it to heal your life.
All emotions have a job - to bring something to our attention, to give us information about our world, sometimes to give us the physical energy to take action. I see my role as a therapist would be to help you better understand yourself, and when it fits to teach you tools and skills so that you can be effective in your life. I can be a guide and an ally through many challenges - these include depression and anxiety, eating disorders, trauma, caregiving, life-threatening illnesses, grief and loss. Whatever emotion or situation led you to seek help, you can use it to heal your life.
(805) 410-8703 View (805) 410-8703
Photo of Rocio R Flores, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Rocio R Flores
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Morgan Hill, CA 95037
I wholeheartedly believe that human connection is built on trust and respect, within a safe space. I honor this belief and bring it into my therapeutic work. I meet each individual I have in front of me where they are, with an open mind and compassion. In doing this, I hope to support you in an inward journey of self-discovery and healing. I'm glad that you have made the step towards taking care of yourself and seeking support from someone that can guide you through this journey of healing. If healing for you means having to process a traumatic event, to perhaps transitioning through difficult moments in life, I'm here for you.
I wholeheartedly believe that human connection is built on trust and respect, within a safe space. I honor this belief and bring it into my therapeutic work. I meet each individual I have in front of me where they are, with an open mind and compassion. In doing this, I hope to support you in an inward journey of self-discovery and healing. I'm glad that you have made the step towards taking care of yourself and seeking support from someone that can guide you through this journey of healing. If healing for you means having to process a traumatic event, to perhaps transitioning through difficult moments in life, I'm here for you.
(669) 202-8760 View (669) 202-8760
Photo of Lifespan Therapy- Jennifer Sale, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Lifespan Therapy- Jennifer Sale, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Do you ever wonder why you have anxiety, nervous tension, mood fluctuations, an inability to concentrate, or a lack of motivation? There are reasons for symptoms such as these, some of which may be environmental, including past trauma or adverse childhood experiences, some biological or hereditary and some related to current stressors. But it is important to have an understanding of these factors, as this type of knowledge is power. In my practice, I offer supportive, compassionate counseling that encourages insight and understanding on the part of my clients, but is also solution-focused with feedback and guidance where needed.
Do you ever wonder why you have anxiety, nervous tension, mood fluctuations, an inability to concentrate, or a lack of motivation? There are reasons for symptoms such as these, some of which may be environmental, including past trauma or adverse childhood experiences, some biological or hereditary and some related to current stressors. But it is important to have an understanding of these factors, as this type of knowledge is power. In my practice, I offer supportive, compassionate counseling that encourages insight and understanding on the part of my clients, but is also solution-focused with feedback and guidance where needed.
(805) 272-7682 View (805) 272-7682
Photo of Jill Pesavento, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Jill Pesavento
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405
Do you wake up with an anxious feeling in your chest and dread starting your day? Does your anxiety limit your ability to do what you want with your life? Are you frustrated with your life and your current relationships? Do you want to feel better about who you are inside and see that translated on the outside? Most people come to me because they have been suffering with themselves for too long. You don't have to keep living a limited existence because of your anxiety, depression, or feeling bad about yourself. Call me for a free consultation.
Do you wake up with an anxious feeling in your chest and dread starting your day? Does your anxiety limit your ability to do what you want with your life? Are you frustrated with your life and your current relationships? Do you want to feel better about who you are inside and see that translated on the outside? Most people come to me because they have been suffering with themselves for too long. You don't have to keep living a limited existence because of your anxiety, depression, or feeling bad about yourself. Call me for a free consultation.
(805) 283-6527 View (805) 283-6527
Photo of Valle de Salinas Behavioral Health, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Valle de Salinas Behavioral Health
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PPS
Verified Verified
Salinas, CA 93901
¿Te preocupas todo el tiempo? ¿Te sientes mal o deprimido? ¿Experimentas pensamientos negativos? ¿Tienes problemas en tus relaciones? ¿Luchas por mantener un equilibrio entre las responsabilidades y los desafíos cotidianos? ¡Podemos ayudarte! Lo guiaremos a través del manejo de la ansiedad, la depresión o el aumento del estrés que puede surgir de problemas de relación, conflictos familiares, divorcio, separación, dificultades de crianza, trauma, enfermedad, pérdida u otros factores estresantes. Ofrecemos terapia individual, de pareja y familiar diseñada para sus necesidades personales.
¿Te preocupas todo el tiempo? ¿Te sientes mal o deprimido? ¿Experimentas pensamientos negativos? ¿Tienes problemas en tus relaciones? ¿Luchas por mantener un equilibrio entre las responsabilidades y los desafíos cotidianos? ¡Podemos ayudarte! Lo guiaremos a través del manejo de la ansiedad, la depresión o el aumento del estrés que puede surgir de problemas de relación, conflictos familiares, divorcio, separación, dificultades de crianza, trauma, enfermedad, pérdida u otros factores estresantes. Ofrecemos terapia individual, de pareja y familiar diseñada para sus necesidades personales.
(831) 215-4143 View (831) 215-4143

Nearby Searches for Carmel

See More Therapists
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.