Photo of Monica Stephens, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Monica Stephens
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Using EMDR, Multicultural Feminist Theory, along with others, I aim to help clients expose the internalized messages that effect their perspectives of themselves and then free them from those expectations that are contributing to their problems.
Do you feel like you keep getting into the same kind of relationship? Do you have emotional reactions that are bigger than the situation? Our past experiences shape the negative messages we have about ourselves and the world. We can work to reveal and rewrite those messages so that you can move forward toward the life you want.
Using EMDR, Multicultural Feminist Theory, along with others, I aim to help clients expose the internalized messages that effect their perspectives of themselves and then free them from those expectations that are contributing to their problems.
Do you feel like you keep getting into the same kind of relationship? Do you have emotional reactions that are bigger than the situation? Our past experiences shape the negative messages we have about ourselves and the world. We can work to reveal and rewrite those messages so that you can move forward toward the life you want.
(714) 844-1672 View (714) 844-1672
Photo of Allison Waite, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Allison Waite
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and EMDR practitioner in private practice. I have extensive experience working with individuals and families for over 11 years. In my practice I promote clients towards growth, self awareness and empowerment through a variety of therapeutic techniques. Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) psychodynamic and humanistic (client centered) therapy are foremost in my practice. I know that each individual and their needs are unique and I believe in offering individualized care for each one of my clients.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and EMDR practitioner in private practice. I have extensive experience working with individuals and families for over 11 years. In my practice I promote clients towards growth, self awareness and empowerment through a variety of therapeutic techniques. Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) psychodynamic and humanistic (client centered) therapy are foremost in my practice. I know that each individual and their needs are unique and I believe in offering individualized care for each one of my clients.
(949) 612-2872 View (949) 612-2872
Photo of Barbi Pecenco, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Barbi Pecenco
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I utilize evidence-based modalities such as IFS, EMDR and Brainspotting to help clients tap into their deeper wisdom to get clarity on what truly matters to them, and then be able to move toward their goals.
My clients come to see me because there is a gap between what they have in their life and what they are hoping for. This gap leads to a feeling of being stuck, and life can feel too hard. Perhaps they don't have the life, relationships or career that they are desiring, or those things just do not feel fulfilling. Some are struggling with an accident or event that they need help transforming from a trauma into a normal memory so they can move forward. Some just have the sense that they are not the best version of themselves and want help creating a meaningful and authentic life that they love.
I utilize evidence-based modalities such as IFS, EMDR and Brainspotting to help clients tap into their deeper wisdom to get clarity on what truly matters to them, and then be able to move toward their goals.
My clients come to see me because there is a gap between what they have in their life and what they are hoping for. This gap leads to a feeling of being stuck, and life can feel too hard. Perhaps they don't have the life, relationships or career that they are desiring, or those things just do not feel fulfilling. Some are struggling with an accident or event that they need help transforming from a trauma into a normal memory so they can move forward. Some just have the sense that they are not the best version of themselves and want help creating a meaningful and authentic life that they love.
(949) 694-7728 View (949) 694-7728
Photo of Paloma Therapy Group , Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Paloma Therapy Group
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an interactive psychotherapy technique used to relieve psychological stress.During EMDR therapy sessions, you relive traumatic or triggering experiences in brief doses while I direct your eyes in rapid movement. I believe in collaborative work, my focus is creating solutions to your current issues, using EMDR. I believe that the key to your success is creating a space that makes you feel comfortable and accepted, in order to foster this environment my office is a serene space. As a trained EMDR therapist my work is primarily working with PTSD, Anxiety and Depression.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an interactive psychotherapy technique used to relieve psychological stress.During EMDR therapy sessions, you relive traumatic or triggering experiences in brief doses while I direct your eyes in rapid movement. I believe in collaborative work, my focus is creating solutions to your current issues, using EMDR. I believe that the key to your success is creating a space that makes you feel comfortable and accepted, in order to foster this environment my office is a serene space. As a trained EMDR therapist my work is primarily working with PTSD, Anxiety and Depression.
(949) 407-8401 View (949) 407-8401
Photo of Maddison Herrick, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Maddison Herrick
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Some of the modalities I pull from include Internal Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-based, and I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Our lives are filled with so much unknown and mixed emotions. My goal is to help guide clients through this journey and get out of the feeling of being "stuck". I see all ages and have a passion for working with teens, young adults, and individuals struggling with anxiety, trauma, chronic illnesses, self-esteem, perfectionism, people pleasing, and/or relationship conflicts. I enjoy taking a collaborative and empathetic approach with my clients to best provide a safe and open space to explore whether it be their first time in therapy or visiting again.
Some of the modalities I pull from include Internal Family Systems, Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, Attachment-based, and I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Our lives are filled with so much unknown and mixed emotions. My goal is to help guide clients through this journey and get out of the feeling of being "stuck". I see all ages and have a passion for working with teens, young adults, and individuals struggling with anxiety, trauma, chronic illnesses, self-esteem, perfectionism, people pleasing, and/or relationship conflicts. I enjoy taking a collaborative and empathetic approach with my clients to best provide a safe and open space to explore whether it be their first time in therapy or visiting again.
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Photo of Rachel (Rae) Schrick, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Rachel (Rae) Schrick
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I also am trained in EMDR.
Many of us have heard or believe that we're "too much" throughout our lives—too emotional, too challenging, too overwhelming, or too far gone to deserve the things, relationships, and lives we long for. This messaging can lead to difficulties setting boundaries, fear of independence, or isolation to avoid feelings of shame and disappointment when our needs go unmet. I believe that big emotions are not a sign that something is “wrong” with you, but rather are healthy signals seeking respect and attention to guide you toward your true self.
I also am trained in EMDR.
Many of us have heard or believe that we're "too much" throughout our lives—too emotional, too challenging, too overwhelming, or too far gone to deserve the things, relationships, and lives we long for. This messaging can lead to difficulties setting boundaries, fear of independence, or isolation to avoid feelings of shame and disappointment when our needs go unmet. I believe that big emotions are not a sign that something is “wrong” with you, but rather are healthy signals seeking respect and attention to guide you toward your true self.
(714) 908-7790 View (714) 908-7790
Photo of Ronald Ochoa, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Ronald Ochoa
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
I am also EMDR trained which has been proven to help treat traumatic experiences.
The way I view our potential future therapeutic relation is as follows; We all struggle (including myself), and must climb “mountains” in life. I am not perfect and have not reached the top of my mountain, but I am able to see things on your mountain that you can’t see, and can alert you to potential dangers to help you climb your mountain more successfully. I am proud of your decision to seek help! I will be the first one to admit that seeking help is not easy.
I am also EMDR trained which has been proven to help treat traumatic experiences.
The way I view our potential future therapeutic relation is as follows; We all struggle (including myself), and must climb “mountains” in life. I am not perfect and have not reached the top of my mountain, but I am able to see things on your mountain that you can’t see, and can alert you to potential dangers to help you climb your mountain more successfully. I am proud of your decision to seek help! I will be the first one to admit that seeking help is not easy.
(949) 997-1904 View (949) 997-1904
Photo of Vivian Lamphear, Psychologist in Newport Beach, CA
Vivian Lamphear
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I have successfully used EMDR, Brainspotting and IFS parts work to gently yet rapidly go to the source of the problem and resolve past trauma, depression, anxiety and other issues.
Hello! I am a Clinical Psychologist, former Assistant Professor of Psychology, Clinic Director and author with 40 years experience. I offer a warm, gentle and secure place to talk about and resolve your concerns. As a trauma specialist, I have successfully used EMDR, Brainspotting and IFS parts work to gently yet rapidly resolve past trauma, depression and anxiety, and achieve peak performance. Unlike regular talk therapy, these cutting edge methods allow you to go right to the source of the issue, located in the emotional or subcortical part of the brain. Most issues and past traumas are more likely resolved in months not years.
I have successfully used EMDR, Brainspotting and IFS parts work to gently yet rapidly go to the source of the problem and resolve past trauma, depression, anxiety and other issues.
Hello! I am a Clinical Psychologist, former Assistant Professor of Psychology, Clinic Director and author with 40 years experience. I offer a warm, gentle and secure place to talk about and resolve your concerns. As a trauma specialist, I have successfully used EMDR, Brainspotting and IFS parts work to gently yet rapidly resolve past trauma, depression and anxiety, and achieve peak performance. Unlike regular talk therapy, these cutting edge methods allow you to go right to the source of the issue, located in the emotional or subcortical part of the brain. Most issues and past traumas are more likely resolved in months not years.
(562) 278-8170 View (562) 278-8170
Photo of Sidney Blankespoor, Associate Clinical Social Worker in Newport Beach, CA
Sidney Blankespoor
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ASW, 105128
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660  (Online Only)
Through trauma-informed approaches, like EMDR and TF-CBT, I hope to help you integrate the past and present for a healthy future.
I believe that in order for therapy to be effective, there has to be intentional effort made to learn about you and learn from you - this is your life and your investment! Alongside hearing about your past difficult experiences and current challenges, I also hope to be a cheerleader in the goals you achieve and highlight the strengths you possess. I value creating a therapeutic space where you have the ability to speak unfiltered without fear of judgment, and I acknowledge that this atmosphere will take time to build - you set the pace!
Through trauma-informed approaches, like EMDR and TF-CBT, I hope to help you integrate the past and present for a healthy future.
I believe that in order for therapy to be effective, there has to be intentional effort made to learn about you and learn from you - this is your life and your investment! Alongside hearing about your past difficult experiences and current challenges, I also hope to be a cheerleader in the goals you achieve and highlight the strengths you possess. I value creating a therapeutic space where you have the ability to speak unfiltered without fear of judgment, and I acknowledge that this atmosphere will take time to build - you set the pace!
(949) 565-4340 View (949) 565-4340
Photo of Tracy Kuhar Clinical Counseling and Coaching, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Tracy Kuhar Clinical Counseling and Coaching
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CM
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
As a client-centered and solution focused therapist, my practice has a clear focus on clients living with Dual Diagnosis, prior life traumas, PTSD, OCD, Mood Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, Undefined/ Defined Anger and challenges with Addiction. I work with couples, individuals, families and children in Orange and Los Angeles counties and surrounding areas. EMDR Trained.
As a client-centered and solution focused therapist, my practice has a clear focus on clients living with Dual Diagnosis, prior life traumas, PTSD, OCD, Mood Disorders, Anxiety and Depression, Undefined/ Defined Anger and challenges with Addiction. I work with couples, individuals, families and children in Orange and Los Angeles counties and surrounding areas. EMDR Trained.
(949) 353-6003 View (949) 353-6003
Photo of Mary Jordan, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Newport Beach, CA
Mary Jordan
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, and CBT.
Do you find yourself shut down or suppress your feelings? Do you struggle in relationships due to your trauma? Are you unsure of where you belong? I work with people of all identities to process unresolved feelings due to trauma. I strive to provide you a safe and non-judgmental space, in order for you to develop coping mechanisms for trauma symptoms (anxiety, depression, addiction, etc.) and to explore aspects of yourself. I can help you let go of past HURTS and develop tools to find RELIEF.
(949) 304-6167 View (949) 304-6167
Photo of Denise Levine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Denise Levine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and a Level 2 DBR(Deep Brain Reorienting) trained Therapist.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing attuned and compassionate therapy. I will help guide you in making mindful and healthy adjustments in order for you to gain a better understanding of yourself. Through a collaborative connection, we will carefully explore the layers of who you are and discover the crucial elements that will enable you to reach your full potential. Ultimately, I want to join you in building a life characterized by connection and attunement to yourself and your loved ones.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and a Level 2 DBR(Deep Brain Reorienting) trained Therapist.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker providing attuned and compassionate therapy. I will help guide you in making mindful and healthy adjustments in order for you to gain a better understanding of yourself. Through a collaborative connection, we will carefully explore the layers of who you are and discover the crucial elements that will enable you to reach your full potential. Ultimately, I want to join you in building a life characterized by connection and attunement to yourself and your loved ones.
(949) 565-4680 View (949) 565-4680
Photo of Amber S. Sibbett - Emdr Certified, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Amber S. Sibbett - Emdr Certified
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Do you often feel exhausted and weighed down by feelings of anxiety, frustration, or feeling as if you or your partner aren’t connecting anymore? Come talk to me. Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address these issues so that you feel rejuvenated, connected, and start experiencing joy once again. I am a certified therapist in EMDR therapy and will be finishing my PhD in forensic psychology next summer of 2023. I enjoy working with both individuals and couples. I specialize in EMDR therapy and use the Gottman method when working with couples.
Do you often feel exhausted and weighed down by feelings of anxiety, frustration, or feeling as if you or your partner aren’t connecting anymore? Come talk to me. Together, we will work on strategies that allow you to address these issues so that you feel rejuvenated, connected, and start experiencing joy once again. I am a certified therapist in EMDR therapy and will be finishing my PhD in forensic psychology next summer of 2023. I enjoy working with both individuals and couples. I specialize in EMDR therapy and use the Gottman method when working with couples.
(562) 469-5838 View (562) 469-5838
Photo of Emily Mayot, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Emily Mayot
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW , MSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I have been trained in CBT, CPT, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR.
Are you considering making a change or something more effective? Online tele-therapy or in-person are convenient ways to navigate your emotional and mental health needs. I am a LCSW/Therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, transitions, PTSD/trauma, grief/loss and substance abuse. I have worked with diverse populations and multi-cultural backgrounds. I currently hold licenses to practice in California, Nevada and Utah.
I have been trained in CBT, CPT, Motivational Interviewing, and EMDR.
Are you considering making a change or something more effective? Online tele-therapy or in-person are convenient ways to navigate your emotional and mental health needs. I am a LCSW/Therapist specializing in anxiety, depression, transitions, PTSD/trauma, grief/loss and substance abuse. I have worked with diverse populations and multi-cultural backgrounds. I currently hold licenses to practice in California, Nevada and Utah.
(949) 403-6580 View (949) 403-6580
Photo of Alena Schuss, Associate Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Alena Schuss
Associate Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92663  (Online Only)
In our sessions, I bring a unique blend of empathy, specialized therapies like EMDR, ART, solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral techniques, and a depth of experience in trauma, eating disorders, addiction, and the intricate challenges life can throw our way.
You're here, and it's not easy. Life's complexities have thrown you into a whirlwind of challenges – maybe it's the echoes of past trauma, the persistent tug of anxiety or depression, or perhaps it's the weight of expectations that feel impossible to carry. Originally from Austria, a former professional triathlete, and now doctoral student in MFT, I know firsthand the pressures of performance and the mental strains that come with it, I understand the delicate balance between physical prowess and mental resilience. If you are someone yearning for clarity and healing, I'm here to be your compass on this journey.
In our sessions, I bring a unique blend of empathy, specialized therapies like EMDR, ART, solution-focused and cognitive-behavioral techniques, and a depth of experience in trauma, eating disorders, addiction, and the intricate challenges life can throw our way.
You're here, and it's not easy. Life's complexities have thrown you into a whirlwind of challenges – maybe it's the echoes of past trauma, the persistent tug of anxiety or depression, or perhaps it's the weight of expectations that feel impossible to carry. Originally from Austria, a former professional triathlete, and now doctoral student in MFT, I know firsthand the pressures of performance and the mental strains that come with it, I understand the delicate balance between physical prowess and mental resilience. If you are someone yearning for clarity and healing, I'm here to be your compass on this journey.
(949) 799-1096 View (949) 799-1096
Photo of Premier Family Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Premier Family Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
We are passionate in and emphasize in trauma-focused treatment, addiction issues, and family systems- integrating EMDR and Somatic Experiencing therapy.
Welcome! It would be a pleasure to work with you on your therapeutic journey! It takes a lot of strength and courage to be able to seek help! We work with individuals, couples, and families, including but not limited to depression/anxiety, trauma, addiction/substance abuse, premarital counseling, and relationship issues. We specialize in trauma work and integrate EMDR therapy and somatic experiencing to work through unresolved trauma and adverse events from the past that may leave you stuck we well.
We are passionate in and emphasize in trauma-focused treatment, addiction issues, and family systems- integrating EMDR and Somatic Experiencing therapy.
Welcome! It would be a pleasure to work with you on your therapeutic journey! It takes a lot of strength and courage to be able to seek help! We work with individuals, couples, and families, including but not limited to depression/anxiety, trauma, addiction/substance abuse, premarital counseling, and relationship issues. We specialize in trauma work and integrate EMDR therapy and somatic experiencing to work through unresolved trauma and adverse events from the past that may leave you stuck we well.
(562) 534-9018 View (562) 534-9018
Photo of Jennie Nystrom, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Jennie Nystrom
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am also trained in EMDR, which is a proven treatment for trauma and PTSD.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
I am also trained in EMDR, which is a proven treatment for trauma and PTSD.
Do you feel depressed or anxious due to childhood trauma? Do you feel disconnected in your relationships with others? I’m here to help you develop an action plan for meaningful changes. My approach to therapy is relational and person-centered. I will work alongside you in a warm and understanding environment where you can explore your emotions and find better ways to deal with the stressors in your life.
(949) 393-7926 View (949) 393-7926
Photo of Lindsey Krogh, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Lindsey Krogh, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I have specialty certifications in Play Therapy, 0-5 services, infant massage, trauma therapy, parenting curriculums, partial training in EMDR, & I am a certified AutPlay therapy provider.
Are you weary from your infant/toddler's crying, tantrums and "not listening" behaviors. Has your child/teen experienced a really stressful or traumatic event and needs help coping? Are you wanting to have a better relationship with your child/teen with greater periods of connecting and feeling close to each other. I believe each of us has a spark inside of us that can build our resiliency through difficult times and cultivate daily joy. I have extensive experience helping children and families through the therapy process to strengthen their relationships and learn coping skills to "do hard things" that we all encounter in life.
I have specialty certifications in Play Therapy, 0-5 services, infant massage, trauma therapy, parenting curriculums, partial training in EMDR, & I am a certified AutPlay therapy provider.
Are you weary from your infant/toddler's crying, tantrums and "not listening" behaviors. Has your child/teen experienced a really stressful or traumatic event and needs help coping? Are you wanting to have a better relationship with your child/teen with greater periods of connecting and feeling close to each other. I believe each of us has a spark inside of us that can build our resiliency through difficult times and cultivate daily joy. I have extensive experience helping children and families through the therapy process to strengthen their relationships and learn coping skills to "do hard things" that we all encounter in life.
(949) 835-5416 View (949) 835-5416
Photo of Anna Barsoe, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Anna Barsoe
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, MA
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I encourage clients to see beyond their symptoms to reach their goal and enhance their sense of well-being. I am extremely proactive and believe in offering the most natural Holistic approach. I provide a safe and down to earth environment for my clients to express themselves. I believe that developing new healthy ways of thinking can lead to a healthy mind and body. I specialize in navigating through trauma using EMDR therapy.
I encourage clients to see beyond their symptoms to reach their goal and enhance their sense of well-being. I am extremely proactive and believe in offering the most natural Holistic approach. I provide a safe and down to earth environment for my clients to express themselves. I believe that developing new healthy ways of thinking can lead to a healthy mind and body. I specialize in navigating through trauma using EMDR therapy.
(949) 647-4220 View (949) 647-4220
Photo of Christine Mcilwain D Mcilwain, Marriage & Family Therapist in Newport Beach, CA
Christine Mcilwain D Mcilwain
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, MFT
Verified Verified
Newport Beach, CA 92660
I am an Approved Consultant in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) trained by Dr Francine Shapiro, the creator of this therapy and have been using this for the past 15 years.
Christine has been working in the field of psychology for the past 25 years as Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. She specializes in Addictions, Relationship Enhancement, Couples, Family, Stress Management, Career Development, Mindfulness Training, Self Hypnosis, Sports Psychology, EMDR-Trauma Work, Peak Performance, Life Coaching, & Personal Development.
I am an Approved Consultant in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) trained by Dr Francine Shapiro, the creator of this therapy and have been using this for the past 15 years.
Christine has been working in the field of psychology for the past 25 years as Licensed Marriage Family Therapist. She specializes in Addictions, Relationship Enhancement, Couples, Family, Stress Management, Career Development, Mindfulness Training, Self Hypnosis, Sports Psychology, EMDR-Trauma Work, Peak Performance, Life Coaching, & Personal Development.
(714) 515-7640 View (714) 515-7640

See more therapy options for Newport Beach


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.