Photo of Gina Wind, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Gina Wind
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Carmel, CA 93921
I specialize in supporting women, college-aged individuals, young girls and teens. Together, we focus on your anxiety, depression and finding goals. All of these are quite treatable. Positive Psychology is a valuable tool for feeling supported and safe to talk about absolutely everything. A trusted psychologist reminds others of their strengths, how to center, self-regulate and feel more solid in oneself. For decades, I have treated ambiguous issues, offered compassionate therapy with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Additionally, I support families and LGBTQ+ individuals. Feel free to contact me about positively anything.
I specialize in supporting women, college-aged individuals, young girls and teens. Together, we focus on your anxiety, depression and finding goals. All of these are quite treatable. Positive Psychology is a valuable tool for feeling supported and safe to talk about absolutely everything. A trusted psychologist reminds others of their strengths, how to center, self-regulate and feel more solid in oneself. For decades, I have treated ambiguous issues, offered compassionate therapy with depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. Additionally, I support families and LGBTQ+ individuals. Feel free to contact me about positively anything.
(831) 621-5873 View (831) 621-5873

Online Therapists

Photo of Jennifer Alexander, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Jennifer Alexander
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
I am currently offering in-person and online individual sessions using expressive arts, mindfulness, neurofeedback, EMDR and Ketamine. Artistic expression may be done through an online collage program or with any materials you would like to use. This may include drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, music, movement, writing, photography, role play or any combination of these. The focus is on the creative process as a tool for transformation and manifestation, rather than on the quality of the product.
I am currently offering in-person and online individual sessions using expressive arts, mindfulness, neurofeedback, EMDR and Ketamine. Artistic expression may be done through an online collage program or with any materials you would like to use. This may include drawing, painting, collage, sculpture, music, movement, writing, photography, role play or any combination of these. The focus is on the creative process as a tool for transformation and manifestation, rather than on the quality of the product.
(831) 531-7827 View (831) 531-7827
Photo of Vanessa Magee, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Vanessa Magee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
is a therapy practice with EMDR available, located in Santa Cruz, CA.
You or a loved one may be struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, loss, or life transitions (emphasis on the life part). Maybe you just need someone to ask you how you are really doing and be able to hold space for that. You may try talking yourself out of your pain or experience by telling yourself “someone else has it worse” or “I don’t deserve to be happy after everything I’ve done”. We often tell ourselves that our feelings, conflicts, or stories must look a certain way for them to deserve attention. I am committed to allowing you to show up to therapy exactly as you need to without making any changes.
is a therapy practice with EMDR available, located in Santa Cruz, CA.
You or a loved one may be struggling with substance use, depression, anxiety, loss, or life transitions (emphasis on the life part). Maybe you just need someone to ask you how you are really doing and be able to hold space for that. You may try talking yourself out of your pain or experience by telling yourself “someone else has it worse” or “I don’t deserve to be happy after everything I’ve done”. We often tell ourselves that our feelings, conflicts, or stories must look a certain way for them to deserve attention. I am committed to allowing you to show up to therapy exactly as you need to without making any changes.
(831) 653-6125 View (831) 653-6125
Photo of Karen H Shin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Karen H Shin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Atascadero, CA 93422
Hello. I’m a trauma informed attachment therapist certified in EMDR. I believe in our ability to heal and grow. I love to see individual and families to heal, grow and thrive because occasionally being human is difficult. I would be honored if invited to be a part of your journey as you explore issues around yourself, on parenting, or relationship challenges. If you experience self-doubt, depression, anxiety, due to trauma, grief and losses, I’m here for you. If you have been considering bringing some positive changes to your life, reach out to me and let's journey together.
Hello. I’m a trauma informed attachment therapist certified in EMDR. I believe in our ability to heal and grow. I love to see individual and families to heal, grow and thrive because occasionally being human is difficult. I would be honored if invited to be a part of your journey as you explore issues around yourself, on parenting, or relationship challenges. If you experience self-doubt, depression, anxiety, due to trauma, grief and losses, I’m here for you. If you have been considering bringing some positive changes to your life, reach out to me and let's journey together.
(805) 219-7078 View (805) 219-7078
Photo of Taria Joy Mac Millan, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Taria Joy Mac Millan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Capitola, CA 95010
I am trained in Mahayana Buddhist principles, trauma-informed practices such as positive discipline, CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
I invite you to join me on a journey of inner discovery! I will gently guide, empower and inspire you to build up your inner strength - and diminish the blocks that inhibit your positive energy and potential. We will develop awareness into the stories, patterns and core beliefs that are causing you suffering and holding you back.
I am trained in Mahayana Buddhist principles, trauma-informed practices such as positive discipline, CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction.
I invite you to join me on a journey of inner discovery! I will gently guide, empower and inspire you to build up your inner strength - and diminish the blocks that inhibit your positive energy and potential. We will develop awareness into the stories, patterns and core beliefs that are causing you suffering and holding you back.
(831) 226-8946 View (831) 226-8946
Photo of Leslie Barton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Leslie Barton
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Maria, CA 93454
I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) which is a powerful tool when it fits the need.
"I believe that each person has unlimited potential within themself! It is my role to assist a person in finding the answers to the dilemnas' they may be facing. Often someone is experiencing a high level of stress through a current life circumstance that brings up feelings or grief from the past. When this happens, part of the therapy process is to deal with the "unfinished business" to access more energy to bring to the present. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I focus on relationship issues including patterns of communication that can improve to develop more satisfying relationships too.
I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) which is a powerful tool when it fits the need.
"I believe that each person has unlimited potential within themself! It is my role to assist a person in finding the answers to the dilemnas' they may be facing. Often someone is experiencing a high level of stress through a current life circumstance that brings up feelings or grief from the past. When this happens, part of the therapy process is to deal with the "unfinished business" to access more energy to bring to the present. As a Marriage and Family therapist, I focus on relationship issues including patterns of communication that can improve to develop more satisfying relationships too.
(805) 623-4087 View (805) 623-4087
Photo of Trinity Mcwilliams, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Trinity Mcwilliams
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MA, BA
Verified Verified
Aptos, CA 95003
Trinity holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has taught Child Development at the College Level and specializes in the following areas: individual & couples counseling, children & adolescents (0-18 years of age) and family counseling, trauma, abuse (sexual, physical and emotional) recovery (also EMDR trained), attachment challenges, drug & alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, establishing healthy boundaries, life transitions.
Trinity holds a Masters in Clinical Psychology and is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has taught Child Development at the College Level and specializes in the following areas: individual & couples counseling, children & adolescents (0-18 years of age) and family counseling, trauma, abuse (sexual, physical and emotional) recovery (also EMDR trained), attachment challenges, drug & alcohol addiction, depression, anxiety, grief and loss, relationship issues, establishing healthy boundaries, life transitions.
(831) 346-1627 View (831) 346-1627
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 Juno Groves, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Juno Groves
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Soquel, CA 95073
I have a broad spectrum of experience, from working at County Mental Health with the most serious cases, to doing EMDR with successful professionals for performance enhancement, to working in the school systems with children with autism.
Do you get the feeling that there are parts of yourself that are blocking you from the life you want to live? Do you feel like you over-react to common things? Do you sometimes feel that you just can't get past your past? I offer an opportunity for you to change how you see yourself. Challenges can be seen as opportunities for growth. Aspects of the self and experiences that are feared can be understood as windows to greater wisdom. Through this healing, past wounds are seen as openings for understanding to grow.
I have a broad spectrum of experience, from working at County Mental Health with the most serious cases, to doing EMDR with successful professionals for performance enhancement, to working in the school systems with children with autism.
Do you get the feeling that there are parts of yourself that are blocking you from the life you want to live? Do you feel like you over-react to common things? Do you sometimes feel that you just can't get past your past? I offer an opportunity for you to change how you see yourself. Challenges can be seen as opportunities for growth. Aspects of the self and experiences that are feared can be understood as windows to greater wisdom. Through this healing, past wounds are seen as openings for understanding to grow.
(831) 920-5175 View (831) 920-5175
Photo of Olivia Winter, Pre-Licensed Professional in Carmel, CA
Olivia Winter
Pre-Licensed Professional, MS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Watsonville, CA 95076
Waitlist for new clients
We may also use Internal Family systems to connect with parts of you, EMDR or Brainspotting for trauma reprocessing, and behavioral or cognitive techniques to encourage new habits and meet your goals.
I believe healing is possible, and there is a path back to your truest self. The pain of life’s stressful, traumatic, and mental or physical health experiences might nudge you to mask, lash out, shut down, or use other creative strategies to survive. I’ve found that cultivating self-compassion and curious attention toward painful experience gradually gives way to spaciousness, growth, and peace. I welcome adults, teens, and children from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and neurodiverse (Autism, ADHD, Highly Sensitive, etc) identities.
We may also use Internal Family systems to connect with parts of you, EMDR or Brainspotting for trauma reprocessing, and behavioral or cognitive techniques to encourage new habits and meet your goals.
I believe healing is possible, and there is a path back to your truest self. The pain of life’s stressful, traumatic, and mental or physical health experiences might nudge you to mask, lash out, shut down, or use other creative strategies to survive. I’ve found that cultivating self-compassion and curious attention toward painful experience gradually gives way to spaciousness, growth, and peace. I welcome adults, teens, and children from all walks of life, including LGBTQIA+, BIPOC, and neurodiverse (Autism, ADHD, Highly Sensitive, etc) identities.
(831) 318-5811 View (831) 318-5811
Photo of Chiara V. Cabiglio, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Carmel, CA
Chiara V. Cabiglio
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95064  (Online Only)
With clients, I use the somatic trauma treatment models called the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM) and EMDR.
Are you an adolescent who feels crippled by anxiety and depression? Or a couple who feels trapped in a cycle of distrust, blame, and feeling unheard, unseen, or misunderstood by your partner? Or maybe you are an individual living with chronic illness and trauma and feel hopeless that you’ll ever truly heal and live your life free of invisible disability? I’ve been where you are and know what it’s like to feel stuck, afraid, lost and alone. Seeking therapy is the beginning of you blooming into a lotus flower and rising from the ashes. You have the answers within you and the capacity to heal. I'm a transpersonal therapist here to walk
With clients, I use the somatic trauma treatment models called the Comprehensive Resource Model (CRM) and EMDR.
Are you an adolescent who feels crippled by anxiety and depression? Or a couple who feels trapped in a cycle of distrust, blame, and feeling unheard, unseen, or misunderstood by your partner? Or maybe you are an individual living with chronic illness and trauma and feel hopeless that you’ll ever truly heal and live your life free of invisible disability? I’ve been where you are and know what it’s like to feel stuck, afraid, lost and alone. Seeking therapy is the beginning of you blooming into a lotus flower and rising from the ashes. You have the answers within you and the capacity to heal. I'm a transpersonal therapist here to walk
(562) 358-5036 View (562) 358-5036
Photo of Summer Sessions Counseling, Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in Carmel, CA
Summer Sessions Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPCC, LCSW, LCMHC, ACSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
From EMDR, OCD treatment, addressing, anxiety, depression, life adjustment, couples and individuals needs, we're here to support it all!.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, and at Summer Sessions, we hope to cut down on the searching component of your journey. We know that the road "here," may have been difficult and we are here to support and listen. The goal of our team is to reflect our community with our own backgrounds and areas of expertise and support you. Whether experiencing a life stressor, ongoing anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma or more, you deserve support and we can help. Please see our website, www.SummerSessionsCounseling.org, for available providers and booking (www.therapyportal.com/p/summersessions/appointments/availability/)
From EMDR, OCD treatment, addressing, anxiety, depression, life adjustment, couples and individuals needs, we're here to support it all!.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, and at Summer Sessions, we hope to cut down on the searching component of your journey. We know that the road "here," may have been difficult and we are here to support and listen. The goal of our team is to reflect our community with our own backgrounds and areas of expertise and support you. Whether experiencing a life stressor, ongoing anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma or more, you deserve support and we can help. Please see our website, www.SummerSessionsCounseling.org, for available providers and booking (www.therapyportal.com/p/summersessions/appointments/availability/)
(805) 243-0739 View (805) 243-0739
Photo of Paige Lynn Dickman, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Paige Lynn Dickman
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, ATR, CTC
Verified Verified
Carmel By The Sea, CA 93923
I'm also an EMDR clinician certificated through the EMDR Institute.
When we experience transition, loss, find ourselves in cycles of addictive behaviors, or find we've lost our center, no matter what age or stage of life, this life can feel overwhelming. Heart centered, skillful guidance and support can help us find renewal, peace and wholeness in the midst of life's most challenging circumstances.
I'm also an EMDR clinician certificated through the EMDR Institute.
When we experience transition, loss, find ourselves in cycles of addictive behaviors, or find we've lost our center, no matter what age or stage of life, this life can feel overwhelming. Heart centered, skillful guidance and support can help us find renewal, peace and wholeness in the midst of life's most challenging circumstances.
(831) 318-5828 View (831) 318-5828
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 Jen Sims, Counselor in Carmel, CA
Jen Sims
Counselor, MA, LPCC, RPT
Verified Verified
Felton, CA 95018
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Registered Play Therapist with additional training in sand tray, EMDR, and specialized play for neurodivergent children.
I use non-directive play therapy to help children and their families process emotions, work through change, heal from traumatic experiences and dream up new and daring ways to be in the world. Why play therapy? It works! This evidence based practice creates an ideal environment for growth by allowing children to engage their whole brains. During play, a child can express themselves in ways they can't through verbal language. A dragon slayed in the playroom becomes a dragon slayed in real life. Play therapy allows both your child and you figure out what's really going on and how to help.
I am a Registered Play Therapist with additional training in sand tray, EMDR, and specialized play for neurodivergent children.
I use non-directive play therapy to help children and their families process emotions, work through change, heal from traumatic experiences and dream up new and daring ways to be in the world. Why play therapy? It works! This evidence based practice creates an ideal environment for growth by allowing children to engage their whole brains. During play, a child can express themselves in ways they can't through verbal language. A dragon slayed in the playroom becomes a dragon slayed in real life. Play therapy allows both your child and you figure out what's really going on and how to help.
(831) 661-8100 View (831) 661-8100
Photo of Veronica Fletcher, Psychologist in Carmel, CA
Veronica Fletcher
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
I work from a depth and relationship based perspective while integrating play therapy and evidenced-based interventions to address the unique and personal needs of my clients. I have a special interest in working with individuals with trauma histories, including childhood maltreatment and abuse, and have completed formal comprehensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I encourage gaining awareness and curiosity for all parts of self to better understand how your past can influence your present and future as well as how individual strengths can help you heal and become whole.
I work from a depth and relationship based perspective while integrating play therapy and evidenced-based interventions to address the unique and personal needs of my clients. I have a special interest in working with individuals with trauma histories, including childhood maltreatment and abuse, and have completed formal comprehensive training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR). I encourage gaining awareness and curiosity for all parts of self to better understand how your past can influence your present and future as well as how individual strengths can help you heal and become whole.
(559) 632-0191 View (559) 632-0191
Photo of Wendy Ann Clodfelter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Wendy Ann Clodfelter
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Atascadero, CA 93422
I use CBT, solution focused brief therapy, directive and non directive play therapy, EMDR, EFT, mindfulness and DBT.
My passion is working with kids and families. I can help with anxiety, depression, relationships and attachment, trauma, school concerns and low self esteem. I also support parents and offer solutions to behavioral concerns at home and in the school setting. I work with families to help with improved communication and better functioning. I encourage parents to take care of themselves and focus on what is working as well as change what is not working.
I use CBT, solution focused brief therapy, directive and non directive play therapy, EMDR, EFT, mindfulness and DBT.
My passion is working with kids and families. I can help with anxiety, depression, relationships and attachment, trauma, school concerns and low self esteem. I also support parents and offer solutions to behavioral concerns at home and in the school setting. I work with families to help with improved communication and better functioning. I encourage parents to take care of themselves and focus on what is working as well as change what is not working.
(805) 391-7914 View (805) 391-7914
Photo of Mary-Anne Wijting, Counselor in Carmel, CA
Mary-Anne Wijting
Counselor, LPCC, NCC
Verified Verified
San Juan Bautista, CA 95045
I utilize evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused Approaches in my counseling practice.
**SESSIONS ARE CURRENTLY VIA VIDEO OR PHONE ONLY** Hopeless, stressed out, trauma, communication issues? It takes courage to face challenging situations in life and to decide to reach out to a mental health professional for counseling. I use counseling strategies that aim to alleviate emotional stress that occur in depression, anxiety, and emotional trauma in adults and children. Poor self-image and communication problems are areas that I feel confident to work with. My overall goal is to help alleviate your emotional pain and to help you find useful coping strategies for your personal needs.
I utilize evidence-based approaches such as EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Solution Focused Approaches in my counseling practice.
**SESSIONS ARE CURRENTLY VIA VIDEO OR PHONE ONLY** Hopeless, stressed out, trauma, communication issues? It takes courage to face challenging situations in life and to decide to reach out to a mental health professional for counseling. I use counseling strategies that aim to alleviate emotional stress that occur in depression, anxiety, and emotional trauma in adults and children. Poor self-image and communication problems are areas that I feel confident to work with. My overall goal is to help alleviate your emotional pain and to help you find useful coping strategies for your personal needs.
(831) 444-1747 View (831) 444-1747
Photo of Monica Nunez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Carmel, CA
Monica Nunez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405  (Online Only)
Telehealth appts available now anywhere in CA! I'm a psychoanalyst certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Eating Disorders. My niche is couples, control issues, communication issues, intimacy issues, guilt, anger, codependency, and trying to please others. My mission is to help you achieve self actualization!
Telehealth appts available now anywhere in CA! I'm a psychoanalyst certified in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Eating Disorders. My niche is couples, control issues, communication issues, intimacy issues, guilt, anger, codependency, and trying to please others. My mission is to help you achieve self actualization!
(951) 355-2694 View (951) 355-2694
Photo of Yes To Therapy, Individual, Family & Couples , Marriage & Family Therapist in Carmel, CA
Yes To Therapy, Individual, Family & Couples
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LPCC, LCSW, PMHNP
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Therapists at Yes To Therapy offer many different specialties, including treating trauma (Brainspotting, IFS, and EMDR), couples (Gottman and EFT), art therapy, play therapy, CBT, DBT, and many more modalities.
At Yes To Therapy, we provide therapeutic services and medication management to a wide variety of ages, genders, cultures, and populations. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, welcoming environment for each and every client who walks through our doors. We have therapists that reflect an array of different genders, ethnic backgrounds, and specialties, as we aim to meet the needs of our clients and match each person with a therapist that truly feels like the right fit.
Therapists at Yes To Therapy offer many different specialties, including treating trauma (Brainspotting, IFS, and EMDR), couples (Gottman and EFT), art therapy, play therapy, CBT, DBT, and many more modalities.
At Yes To Therapy, we provide therapeutic services and medication management to a wide variety of ages, genders, cultures, and populations. We pride ourselves on creating a warm, welcoming environment for each and every client who walks through our doors. We have therapists that reflect an array of different genders, ethnic backgrounds, and specialties, as we aim to meet the needs of our clients and match each person with a therapist that truly feels like the right fit.
(408) 676-3309 View (408) 676-3309

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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.