Photo of Innerlight Therapy , Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Innerlight Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959
We are skilled in trauma therapies including EMDR and brain spotting, TFCBT, and Somatic experiencing.
Sometimes the world seems dark, troubling, overwhelming. As humans we are faced with so many choices, possibilities are endless and there are so many unknowns. In the midst of uncertainty, it may seem daunting to reach out for help. Buried deep within the unknown, the darkness, the overwhelm, is the spark of inner light. You know it is there but may appear just out of reach. The light of clarity, of purpose and forward movement is a possibility, and you are ready to come out of the darkness and turn towards this light. We are dedicated to helping you uncover the layers of darkness, and find this inner light.
We are skilled in trauma therapies including EMDR and brain spotting, TFCBT, and Somatic experiencing.
Sometimes the world seems dark, troubling, overwhelming. As humans we are faced with so many choices, possibilities are endless and there are so many unknowns. In the midst of uncertainty, it may seem daunting to reach out for help. Buried deep within the unknown, the darkness, the overwhelm, is the spark of inner light. You know it is there but may appear just out of reach. The light of clarity, of purpose and forward movement is a possibility, and you are ready to come out of the darkness and turn towards this light. We are dedicated to helping you uncover the layers of darkness, and find this inner light.
(530) 508-9023 View (530) 508-9023
Photo of Jessica Stahl, Psychologist in Nevada City, CA
Jessica Stahl
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959  (Online Only)
My approach is very eclectic and draws from a multitud of approaches including, Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Depth psychology.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. I am currently only offering services through Telehealth at this time. I have been in practice for 14 years. I have experience working with a wide range of psychological issues ranging from severe to mild to moderate. I work mainly with adults. My areas of interest are working with anxiety, mood disorders, grief/loss, and trauma. I have a strong foundation in ethical and legal issues and strength-based helping practices. I believe in working from a client-centered approach to promote the client's wellbeing that reflects their values, needs, and goals.
My approach is very eclectic and draws from a multitud of approaches including, Eye-Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Depth psychology.
I am a Licensed Clinical Psychologist. I am currently only offering services through Telehealth at this time. I have been in practice for 14 years. I have experience working with a wide range of psychological issues ranging from severe to mild to moderate. I work mainly with adults. My areas of interest are working with anxiety, mood disorders, grief/loss, and trauma. I have a strong foundation in ethical and legal issues and strength-based helping practices. I believe in working from a client-centered approach to promote the client's wellbeing that reflects their values, needs, and goals.
(530) 793-5265 View (530) 793-5265
Photo of Aaron Galloway, Licensed Professional Counselor in Nevada City, CA
Aaron Galloway
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC, EMDR-II
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959
I specialize in treating people experiencing relational challenges, life transitions, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use issues. The healing journey is not a one-size-fits-all experience, so I draw on my training in EMDR, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, attachment therapy, somatic therapy, wilderness therapy, Polyvagal theory, and addictions counseling to best meet you where you are in your process. Let's work together to co-create an individualized plan for you.
I specialize in treating people experiencing relational challenges, life transitions, PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use issues. The healing journey is not a one-size-fits-all experience, so I draw on my training in EMDR, ketamine-assisted psychotherapy, Gestalt therapy, attachment therapy, somatic therapy, wilderness therapy, Polyvagal theory, and addictions counseling to best meet you where you are in your process. Let's work together to co-create an individualized plan for you.
(720) 664-5216 View (720) 664-5216
Photo of Brian David Parker, Counselor in Nevada City, CA
Brian David Parker
Counselor, LPCC, MA
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959
You are on a path toward healing. I would love to partner with you and bring my training and experience to support your healing and growth. Individuals, couples, families, and children are all welcome. I work with Narrative, Existential, and Strengths Based modalities to help you find meaning in suffering, create a new narrative, and capitalize on the strengths you already have. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. I provide therapy in English and in Spanish.
You are on a path toward healing. I would love to partner with you and bring my training and experience to support your healing and growth. Individuals, couples, families, and children are all welcome. I work with Narrative, Existential, and Strengths Based modalities to help you find meaning in suffering, create a new narrative, and capitalize on the strengths you already have. I am trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and EMDR. I provide therapy in English and in Spanish.
(530) 444-6203 View (530) 444-6203
Photo of Jessicarose L Kubas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Jessicarose L Kubas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959  (Online Only)
Sometimes ordinary psychotherapy just isn’t “it”. Most women entering my practice come due to persistent sexual and emotional problems that regular psychotherapy analyzed but did not effectively facilitate. Sometimes, “How does it make you feel?” Is too little and insufficient for change. You are left with an inventory of your issues and little change. You will likely find me quite different to the above. I don’t fit the mold because I studied to be the answer to the above in my practices.
Sometimes ordinary psychotherapy just isn’t “it”. Most women entering my practice come due to persistent sexual and emotional problems that regular psychotherapy analyzed but did not effectively facilitate. Sometimes, “How does it make you feel?” Is too little and insufficient for change. You are left with an inventory of your issues and little change. You will likely find me quite different to the above. I don’t fit the mold because I studied to be the answer to the above in my practices.
(530) 772-5315 View (530) 772-5315
Photo of Rebecca Jean Palley, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Rebecca Jean Palley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959
I provide compassionate psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. With more than thirty years of experience, I listen carefully and offer warmth, kindness, humor, and perspective. I believe that each of us has wisdom and creativity within us and hope to help you find and access yours.I avoid diagnostic labels and preconceptions. I work with love. I enjoy helping people with relationships of all kinds. "A friend is someone who hears the song in your heart and sings it to you when you've forgotten the melody." While therapy is different than friendship, this aspect is the same.
I provide compassionate psychotherapy for children, adolescents, and adults. With more than thirty years of experience, I listen carefully and offer warmth, kindness, humor, and perspective. I believe that each of us has wisdom and creativity within us and hope to help you find and access yours.I avoid diagnostic labels and preconceptions. I work with love. I enjoy helping people with relationships of all kinds. "A friend is someone who hears the song in your heart and sings it to you when you've forgotten the melody." While therapy is different than friendship, this aspect is the same.
(530) 575-5154 View (530) 575-5154
Photo of Lovie Bucknell, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Lovie Bucknell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959
You don't have to go this alone! I approach my clients with authenticity, non-judgement, and compassion. The issues that I would be honored to support you with include: depression; anxiety; working through trauma; grief/loss; major life transitions; self-discovery; exploring/cultivating creativity; exploring cultural identities; creating satisfying relationships; and understanding and resolving conflicts in family relationships. I integrate various theories and approaches based on your particular goals. Our work together can be exploratory or action oriented: focusing on the past, the present or the future; long or short term.
You don't have to go this alone! I approach my clients with authenticity, non-judgement, and compassion. The issues that I would be honored to support you with include: depression; anxiety; working through trauma; grief/loss; major life transitions; self-discovery; exploring/cultivating creativity; exploring cultural identities; creating satisfying relationships; and understanding and resolving conflicts in family relationships. I integrate various theories and approaches based on your particular goals. Our work together can be exploratory or action oriented: focusing on the past, the present or the future; long or short term.
(530) 797-4077 View (530) 797-4077
Photo of Panthea Razavi, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Panthea Razavi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Nevada City, CA 95959  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
Specialties: I am a EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained Therapist with a neuropsychology framework in mind when working with my clients.
As a trauma-informed therapist with Kindred Heart Therapy Group, I choose to use a collaborative, respectful, and non-pathologizing approach which seeks to highlight an individual’s many abilities, values, skills and beliefs that are often overlooked when problems take control of their lives. I aim to create a safe space for my clients while they navigate through their unique journey of healing and growth. I am also passionate about social justice and invite sociopolitical issues into the therapy room while remaining curious as to how these impact individuals, couples, families and/or communities. I look forward to meeting you!
Specialties: I am a EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained Therapist with a neuropsychology framework in mind when working with my clients.
As a trauma-informed therapist with Kindred Heart Therapy Group, I choose to use a collaborative, respectful, and non-pathologizing approach which seeks to highlight an individual’s many abilities, values, skills and beliefs that are often overlooked when problems take control of their lives. I aim to create a safe space for my clients while they navigate through their unique journey of healing and growth. I am also passionate about social justice and invite sociopolitical issues into the therapy room while remaining curious as to how these impact individuals, couples, families and/or communities. I look forward to meeting you!
(760) 691-2223 View (760) 691-2223
Photo of Sabrina Speroni, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Sabrina Speroni
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Nevada City, CA 95959  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I use a variety of approaches including CBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR among others.
Not currently accepting new patients - - - Depression, Anxiety and history of trauma can suck our souls away. We get mired down with a low mood, hopelessness, persistent anxiety, brain fog, panic attacks, overwhelm, unhappiness, worry, fear, and insecurity, and we just know, this is no way to live. Listen, I know you've been doing your best to get through this on your own, but at this point, you don't need to do it alone. We can work together to help you find understanding and perspective, and then work on learning the skills you need to make the changes in your life that will make the difference.
I use a variety of approaches including CBT, Mindfulness, and EMDR among others.
Not currently accepting new patients - - - Depression, Anxiety and history of trauma can suck our souls away. We get mired down with a low mood, hopelessness, persistent anxiety, brain fog, panic attacks, overwhelm, unhappiness, worry, fear, and insecurity, and we just know, this is no way to live. Listen, I know you've been doing your best to get through this on your own, but at this point, you don't need to do it alone. We can work together to help you find understanding and perspective, and then work on learning the skills you need to make the changes in your life that will make the difference.
(530) 495-4706 View (530) 495-4706

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Donna M. Hutcheson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Donna M. Hutcheson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
I tailor counseling to meet the needs of my client drawing from multiple healing approaches including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Somatic and Mindfulness Based practices.
As a client-centered therapist, I provide a supportive and non-judgmental approach in which you can feel safe to begin the healing journey. I firmly believe in building on my client's strengths and skills. My training and experience has included working with individuals and families recovering from trauma, grief, anxiety, depression and codependency/relationship issues.
I tailor counseling to meet the needs of my client drawing from multiple healing approaches including: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, Somatic and Mindfulness Based practices.
As a client-centered therapist, I provide a supportive and non-judgmental approach in which you can feel safe to begin the healing journey. I firmly believe in building on my client's strengths and skills. My training and experience has included working with individuals and families recovering from trauma, grief, anxiety, depression and codependency/relationship issues.
(530) 488-4143 View (530) 488-4143
Photo of James Thomas, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nevada City, CA
James Thomas
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
I specialize in EMDR, CBT/DBT and MI.
I strive to meet people where they are, to listen and understand their values, to explore and encourage them to connect to what matters most to them. My goal is to help people cultivate loving acceptance of themselves, and gain insight of how the past impacts the present, while forging an awareness that the past does not have to dictate one’s current reality. Developing a clear, nonjudgmental view of their journey allows people to work towards creating a life congruent with their values. I believe all humans have inherent worth and dignity, I believe each person can overcome the trauma and struggles they have endured or face now.
I specialize in EMDR, CBT/DBT and MI.
I strive to meet people where they are, to listen and understand their values, to explore and encourage them to connect to what matters most to them. My goal is to help people cultivate loving acceptance of themselves, and gain insight of how the past impacts the present, while forging an awareness that the past does not have to dictate one’s current reality. Developing a clear, nonjudgmental view of their journey allows people to work towards creating a life congruent with their values. I believe all humans have inherent worth and dignity, I believe each person can overcome the trauma and struggles they have endured or face now.
(530) 444-5698 View (530) 444-5698
Photo of Lyndsy Mirasola, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Lyndsy Mirasola
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
EMDR trained Clinician. All of us face difficulties from time to time. You are not alone. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationships or trauma? Do you struggle with unwanted thoughts or feelings? Does your mind never seem to stop? Do you have trouble finding motivation? Imagine what it would feel like to have greater peace, confidence, happiness and live a meaningful life. Together, we can develop a plan to help you feel better and reach your goals. Sometimes these struggles lead to a great awakening.
EMDR trained Clinician. All of us face difficulties from time to time. You are not alone. Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, relationships or trauma? Do you struggle with unwanted thoughts or feelings? Does your mind never seem to stop? Do you have trouble finding motivation? Imagine what it would feel like to have greater peace, confidence, happiness and live a meaningful life. Together, we can develop a plan to help you feel better and reach your goals. Sometimes these struggles lead to a great awakening.
(530) 456-7473 View (530) 456-7473
Photo of Sierra Therapy Center in Nevada City, CA
Sierra Therapy Center
LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
We offer many modalities to individuals, couples, families and children - EMDR, Brainspotting, couples therapy, group therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma grief work, and more.
Our story: Some of the best physicians are wounded healers, those who have walked through pain and suffering themselves only to emerge on the other side to help others. We believe strongly in the human capacity to heal. Our counseling specialists work with children/teens, adults, couples and families. With sensitivity and compassion, we help you bring resolution to the struggles you are facing. Modalities range from depth therapy, IMAGO couples therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, play therapy, addiction groups to solution focused. We are trained in a variety of different therapeutic interventions that will fit what you need.
We offer many modalities to individuals, couples, families and children - EMDR, Brainspotting, couples therapy, group therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma grief work, and more.
Our story: Some of the best physicians are wounded healers, those who have walked through pain and suffering themselves only to emerge on the other side to help others. We believe strongly in the human capacity to heal. Our counseling specialists work with children/teens, adults, couples and families. With sensitivity and compassion, we help you bring resolution to the struggles you are facing. Modalities range from depth therapy, IMAGO couples therapy, Brainspotting, EMDR, play therapy, addiction groups to solution focused. We are trained in a variety of different therapeutic interventions that will fit what you need.
(530) 419-5189 View (530) 419-5189
Photo of Deborah Stevenson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Deborah Stevenson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Grass Valley, CA 95945
I am a trained EMDR therapist and the results I see firsthand through EMDR therapy continue to affirm its effectiveness in resolving trauma of all kinds.
I have over 30 years experience counseling children and adolescents. I have always had a passion to help people and my interests and experience as a therapist have led me to working with children and trauma. When a person is very upset, their brain cannot process information as it does ordinarily. Highly emotionally charged experiences become ‘frozen in time’ and are not processed in the usual way. My goal is to help reprocess those events to a resolution that is life-affirming and strength-building.
I am a trained EMDR therapist and the results I see firsthand through EMDR therapy continue to affirm its effectiveness in resolving trauma of all kinds.
I have over 30 years experience counseling children and adolescents. I have always had a passion to help people and my interests and experience as a therapist have led me to working with children and trauma. When a person is very upset, their brain cannot process information as it does ordinarily. Highly emotionally charged experiences become ‘frozen in time’ and are not processed in the usual way. My goal is to help reprocess those events to a resolution that is life-affirming and strength-building.
(530) 491-4688 View (530) 491-4688
Photo of Stephanie Layton, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Stephanie Layton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
There is no time like the present. If you’ve found yourself here on my page, you have done what most can only dream of. You have taken the next step, one giant leap of courage, to do this work that you’ve been called to do. This work is not always easy, in fact it can be downright hard & uncomfortable, but it is necessary & rewarding. And with my guidance, hopefully the process can be more than just barrable, maybe even inspiring. It is scary to look into the abyss of uncertainty, but often my client’s find it was not nearly as bad as those nagging thoughts inside their head said it would be & many wish they had started sooner.
There is no time like the present. If you’ve found yourself here on my page, you have done what most can only dream of. You have taken the next step, one giant leap of courage, to do this work that you’ve been called to do. This work is not always easy, in fact it can be downright hard & uncomfortable, but it is necessary & rewarding. And with my guidance, hopefully the process can be more than just barrable, maybe even inspiring. It is scary to look into the abyss of uncertainty, but often my client’s find it was not nearly as bad as those nagging thoughts inside their head said it would be & many wish they had started sooner.
(916) 527-9376 View (916) 527-9376
Photo of Chris Boudoures, Psychologist in Nevada City, CA
Chris Boudoures
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
Imagine a day when you wake up and things are exactly like you want them to be, the depression or anxiety is gone and there is hope for tomorrow. Psychotherapy can help you live in the moment, detach from things you can not change and grow to a more peaceful, confident self. Nothing would bring me more joy than to be able to help you achieve your goals whatever they might be.
Imagine a day when you wake up and things are exactly like you want them to be, the depression or anxiety is gone and there is hope for tomorrow. Psychotherapy can help you live in the moment, detach from things you can not change and grow to a more peaceful, confident self. Nothing would bring me more joy than to be able to help you achieve your goals whatever they might be.
(530) 723-1743 View (530) 723-1743
Photo of Emily White, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Emily White
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945
We all walk through valleys in our lives, my hope is that you don't walk it alone. There are sometimes scary parts of us, my hope is to help them become less scary. I don't pretend to have all the answers, but I put my heart and soul into walking alongside my clients. I strive to have a safe and collaborative relationship in which we work together to find the answers and solutions you are in need of, striving to help you see yourself more fully, so that ultimately you feel deep healing and empowerment. We are all on a journey of becoming a better version of ourselves, it would be an honor to be a part of your journey.
We all walk through valleys in our lives, my hope is that you don't walk it alone. There are sometimes scary parts of us, my hope is to help them become less scary. I don't pretend to have all the answers, but I put my heart and soul into walking alongside my clients. I strive to have a safe and collaborative relationship in which we work together to find the answers and solutions you are in need of, striving to help you see yourself more fully, so that ultimately you feel deep healing and empowerment. We are all on a journey of becoming a better version of ourselves, it would be an honor to be a part of your journey.
(530) 207-8715 View (530) 207-8715
Photo of Patricia Campos-Barcenas, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Patricia Campos-Barcenas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Grass Valley, CA 95945  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I utilize, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness.
Have you had a life experience or experiences recently or in the past, that have impacted how you feel about yourself? How you relate to others, and / or your enjoyment of your day to day life? I will support you towards the healing of your emotional pain, self-discovery and fulfillment. Together we will identify the issues, and build resources that will allow you to reach your goals.
I utilize, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Mindfulness.
Have you had a life experience or experiences recently or in the past, that have impacted how you feel about yourself? How you relate to others, and / or your enjoyment of your day to day life? I will support you towards the healing of your emotional pain, self-discovery and fulfillment. Together we will identify the issues, and build resources that will allow you to reach your goals.
(530) 287-8210 View (530) 287-8210

Online Therapists

Photo of Meghan Murphy Goode, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
Meghan Murphy Goode
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Roseville, CA 95747
EMDR is one of the most effective methods to stimulate the brain and body’s natural ability towards healing. EMDR is an evidence-based modality that uses eye movement, tapping, or sound to help the brain heal from difficult life experiences. EMDR can help with the treatment of PTSD, trauma, depression, and anxiety. This therapy is rewarding, and it could bring strength to situations that may have seemed hopeless.
EMDR is one of the most effective methods to stimulate the brain and body’s natural ability towards healing. EMDR is an evidence-based modality that uses eye movement, tapping, or sound to help the brain heal from difficult life experiences. EMDR can help with the treatment of PTSD, trauma, depression, and anxiety. This therapy is rewarding, and it could bring strength to situations that may have seemed hopeless.
(209) 219-2173 View (209) 219-2173
Photo of The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP, Marriage & Family Therapist in Nevada City, CA
The Attach Place, Neurofeedback, KAP
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Sacramento, CA 95826
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
NEW! We are now providing Ketamine-Assisted Psychotherapy! Our mission: We provide expert attachment-based, trauma-informed services to those seeking emotional healing and wellness, lasting relationships, and loving family lives. "Love Matters" in every relationship. We practice therapy that way, too. At the center, we provide attachment therapies to treat individuals, couples, children, and families, with a specialty focus on adoption, relationships, and trauma recovery. We practice Internal Family Systems, EMDR, Flash Tech, Emotionally Focused Therapy, Theraplay, Dyadic Psychotherapy, Therapeutic Parenting, and Neurofeedback.
(916) 269-3522 View (916) 269-3522

See more therapy options for Nevada City

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.