EMDR Therapists in San Joaquin County, CA

Photo of Hayede Raeen, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Hayede Raeen
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Manteca, CA 95337
My name is Heidi Raeen. I hold a California LMFT license. My approach to treatment is client-centered depending on what works best for each client. My views of mental health and well-being are influenced by Jungian Psychology and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy. I also have extensive training and experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My specialties are Trauma- EMDR trained, grief and loss, anxiety, and stress management. My approach to treatment is client-centered and influenced by Jungian Psychology, Humanistic, and principles of Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
My name is Heidi Raeen. I hold a California LMFT license. My approach to treatment is client-centered depending on what works best for each client. My views of mental health and well-being are influenced by Jungian Psychology and Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy. I also have extensive training and experience utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT). My specialties are Trauma- EMDR trained, grief and loss, anxiety, and stress management. My approach to treatment is client-centered and influenced by Jungian Psychology, Humanistic, and principles of Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy.
(209) 266-7297 View (209) 266-7297
Photo of Elizabeth Wray, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Elizabeth Wray
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lathrop, CA 95330
I'm Elizabeth, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, clinical supervisor, and EMDR therapist working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I have experience working in eating disorder treatment which allowed me to work with individuals, families, and teens. I've also helped people struggling with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more. I’m a humanistic and client-centered therapist and that allows us to work together collaboratively to set goals. I also employ EMDR and trauma-informed care, and eclectic modalities.
I'm Elizabeth, I am a licensed marriage and family therapist, clinical supervisor, and EMDR therapist working with adults, adolescents, and couples. I have experience working in eating disorder treatment which allowed me to work with individuals, families, and teens. I've also helped people struggling with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, and more. I’m a humanistic and client-centered therapist and that allows us to work together collaboratively to set goals. I also employ EMDR and trauma-informed care, and eclectic modalities.
(925) 265-7892 View (925) 265-7892
Photo of Melissa Medina, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Melissa Medina
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Lodi, CA 95242
It takes 2 to know 1. As a therapist, I utilize multiple approaches (for example, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, family systems, strengths based, EMDR) to deliver effective interventions tailored for each indvidual. I will meet you where you are at, and I am committed to getting you where you want to go. Therapy is both a journey and a destination.
It takes 2 to know 1. As a therapist, I utilize multiple approaches (for example, psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, family systems, strengths based, EMDR) to deliver effective interventions tailored for each indvidual. I will meet you where you are at, and I am committed to getting you where you want to go. Therapy is both a journey and a destination.
(209) 899-1540 View (209) 899-1540
Photo of Albert Anderson, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in San Joaquin County, CA
Albert Anderson
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockton, CA 95207
Hello, and welcome to your journey of self-exploration. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who utilizes a trauma-informed lens approach to therapy. I work with trauma, mood disorders ( anxiety, depression), self-esteem, and life transitions. I typically work with clients who struggle with trauma, PTSD symptoms, mood disorders (anxiety and depression), and self-esteem. I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I create a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, and exploratory environment for clients.
Hello, and welcome to your journey of self-exploration. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor who utilizes a trauma-informed lens approach to therapy. I work with trauma, mood disorders ( anxiety, depression), self-esteem, and life transitions. I typically work with clients who struggle with trauma, PTSD symptoms, mood disorders (anxiety and depression), and self-esteem. I utilize Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Internal Family Systems, and Psychodynamic Therapy. I create a warm, compassionate, non-judgmental, and exploratory environment for clients.
(209) 314-5851 View (209) 314-5851
Photo of Samantha Houston-Crook, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Samantha Houston-Crook
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
Ripon, CA 95366  (Online Only)
I currently offer the options of weekly sessions as well as EMDR Intensive sessions.
Hi! My name is Sam. I am so excited to get to know you and begin our journey together. I take a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to treatment. In today’s world we are overloaded with information and are pulled in every direction. Sometimes this can be overwhelming and make us feel like we are out of control. If this is what you feel, then you have come to the right place. I look to come alongside individuals and families become reconnected and satisfied. Together, we will explore the good and the bad, uncovering areas that you may not even be aware of. This, can can help you feel more in control.
I currently offer the options of weekly sessions as well as EMDR Intensive sessions.
Hi! My name is Sam. I am so excited to get to know you and begin our journey together. I take a person-centered and trauma-informed approach to treatment. In today’s world we are overloaded with information and are pulled in every direction. Sometimes this can be overwhelming and make us feel like we are out of control. If this is what you feel, then you have come to the right place. I look to come alongside individuals and families become reconnected and satisfied. Together, we will explore the good and the bad, uncovering areas that you may not even be aware of. This, can can help you feel more in control.
(209) 791-7979 View (209) 791-7979
Photo of Dr. Ayesha Christina Paige Hunter, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Dr. Ayesha Christina Paige Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockton, CA 95207
Waitlist for new clients
Currently Accepting New Patients. Trained in EMDR and BSP. I specialize in working with people of color and all others who need support. I also come from a Christian perspective, although I am open to working with people from all backgrounds. I have been formerly trained in trauma-informed practices and I am a Certified WRAP Facilitator. I sincerely care about helping people overcome their tragedies and I whole-heartedly support recovery from trauma, addictions, and life experiences that could potentially provide setbacks. I believe the saying, "A setback is a setup for a comeback!"
Currently Accepting New Patients. Trained in EMDR and BSP. I specialize in working with people of color and all others who need support. I also come from a Christian perspective, although I am open to working with people from all backgrounds. I have been formerly trained in trauma-informed practices and I am a Certified WRAP Facilitator. I sincerely care about helping people overcome their tragedies and I whole-heartedly support recovery from trauma, addictions, and life experiences that could potentially provide setbacks. I believe the saying, "A setback is a setup for a comeback!"
(209) 584-6166 View (209) 584-6166
Photo of Kevin Lee Brown, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Kevin Lee Brown
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Lodi, CA 95240
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Brainspotting, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), and EMDR (Eye, Movement, Desensitization, Reprocessing).
I welcome any individual, couple, and/or family who are willing to do some solution focused work to bring some freedom, hope, and joy. I use a variety of tools (forms of therapy) and see the best results when there is motivation to change. My wheel house is related to marital, parental, anxiety and depressive challenges, trauma(s), and/or personal crisis needing an intervention. I enjoy coaching and facilitating the process for a client to live fully in the present, free of any self-limiting beliefs or behavior patterns that no longer serve you well. I like to consider myself a hope dispenser.
I am trained in Emotionally Focused Therapy, Brainspotting, ART (Accelerated Resolution Therapy), and EMDR (Eye, Movement, Desensitization, Reprocessing).
I welcome any individual, couple, and/or family who are willing to do some solution focused work to bring some freedom, hope, and joy. I use a variety of tools (forms of therapy) and see the best results when there is motivation to change. My wheel house is related to marital, parental, anxiety and depressive challenges, trauma(s), and/or personal crisis needing an intervention. I enjoy coaching and facilitating the process for a client to live fully in the present, free of any self-limiting beliefs or behavior patterns that no longer serve you well. I like to consider myself a hope dispenser.
(209) 322-1047 View (209) 322-1047
Photo of Erin Adams, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Erin Adams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Acampo, CA 95220
Hi there, I'm Erin, a licensed clinical social worker that specializes in the treatment of trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, and addiction. My focus is working with adolescents and adults. I understand that when people experience trauma or life stressors they might struggle and need extra support. Some of the modalities I use are EMDR, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Attachment Theory, Harm Reduction, and Client-Centered Approach. It is my passion to help people process their thoughts and feelings so that they can come to a better understanding of themselves.
Hi there, I'm Erin, a licensed clinical social worker that specializes in the treatment of trauma, anxiety disorders, depression, and addiction. My focus is working with adolescents and adults. I understand that when people experience trauma or life stressors they might struggle and need extra support. Some of the modalities I use are EMDR, Mindfulness, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Attachment Theory, Harm Reduction, and Client-Centered Approach. It is my passion to help people process their thoughts and feelings so that they can come to a better understanding of themselves.
(562) 265-3904 View (562) 265-3904
Photo of G Kim Sutterfield, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
G Kim Sutterfield
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Stockton, CA 95207
I also have been trained in EMDR for trauma work.
I work with people who are experiencing psychological distress that is disrupting their daily lives. Depression, anxiety, truama and family crisis issues are common reasons people seek my services. I am experienced working with people from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds and embrace diversity in my practice and life. I work with children, adolescents, couples and families.
I also have been trained in EMDR for trauma work.
I work with people who are experiencing psychological distress that is disrupting their daily lives. Depression, anxiety, truama and family crisis issues are common reasons people seek my services. I am experienced working with people from a wide variety of cultural backgrounds and embrace diversity in my practice and life. I work with children, adolescents, couples and families.
(209) 390-9525 View (209) 390-9525
Photo of Maria Llamas, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Maria Llamas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stockton, CA 95206
I am certified in both EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting Therapy, all of which utilize mind/body strategies for reactions that result from traumatic events including those from childhood.
My name is Maria Llamas, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing teletherapy throughout California. I specialize in treating trauma by integrating evidence-based trauma-informed modalities to meet each client's specific needs at their pace. I evaluate and treat a wide range of clinical problems including anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, feeling tense or stressed, relationship challenges and or individuals who can’t quite understand why things feel out of sorts. I have a particular interest in working with adults who are survivors of trauma, including those from childhood.
I am certified in both EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and Brainspotting Therapy, all of which utilize mind/body strategies for reactions that result from traumatic events including those from childhood.
My name is Maria Llamas, and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist providing teletherapy throughout California. I specialize in treating trauma by integrating evidence-based trauma-informed modalities to meet each client's specific needs at their pace. I evaluate and treat a wide range of clinical problems including anxiety, depression, PTSD, grief/loss, self-esteem issues, feeling tense or stressed, relationship challenges and or individuals who can’t quite understand why things feel out of sorts. I have a particular interest in working with adults who are survivors of trauma, including those from childhood.
(209) 396-8027 View (209) 396-8027
Photo of Robin Hall, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Robin Hall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
My training includes EMDR, CBT, EFT, somatic therapy, art therapy, solution-focused, CPT, IFS, and DBT.
Robin has a deep passion for building relationships to empower people to overcome challenges associated with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, identity, depression, and ADD/ADHD. Using a blend of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to create a safe, judgment-free space to express yourself, ensuring that you feel seen, heard, and valued, throughout your journey towards healing and growth. Everyone is unique and the approach to therapy should be individualized. I have extensive experience and training in using different therapies.
My training includes EMDR, CBT, EFT, somatic therapy, art therapy, solution-focused, CPT, IFS, and DBT.
Robin has a deep passion for building relationships to empower people to overcome challenges associated with trauma, PTSD, anxiety, identity, depression, and ADD/ADHD. Using a blend of evidence-based therapeutic approaches to create a safe, judgment-free space to express yourself, ensuring that you feel seen, heard, and valued, throughout your journey towards healing and growth. Everyone is unique and the approach to therapy should be individualized. I have extensive experience and training in using different therapies.
(209) 439-3883 View (209) 439-3883
Carol Gray, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Manteca, CA 95336  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in communication, emotional regulation, women's issues, family dynamics, relationship issues, EMDR for traumatic memories, and sexual abuse treatment.
Welcome to your first step toward feeling better. When we feel emotionally distressed, options can seem limited and confusing. The process of therapy assists with broadening our vision, so we can imagine new possibilities. The experience of therapy is a gift to our self--one which helps to view current circumstances from different perspectives. My specialty is helping you to envision your preferred choices, to embrace the process of change, and to accomplish your desired goals. Gaining broader perspective and clearer insight is possible. Your healing journey is within your reach!
I have specialized training in communication, emotional regulation, women's issues, family dynamics, relationship issues, EMDR for traumatic memories, and sexual abuse treatment.
Welcome to your first step toward feeling better. When we feel emotionally distressed, options can seem limited and confusing. The process of therapy assists with broadening our vision, so we can imagine new possibilities. The experience of therapy is a gift to our self--one which helps to view current circumstances from different perspectives. My specialty is helping you to envision your preferred choices, to embrace the process of change, and to accomplish your desired goals. Gaining broader perspective and clearer insight is possible. Your healing journey is within your reach!
(559) 529-5785 View (559) 529-5785
Photo of Rob Cox, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Rob Cox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Manteca, CA 95337  (Online Only)
In addition to EMDR therapy, I draw upon principles and interventions associated with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
Change is possible. Having provided therapy services since 2013, I have seen strength during depression, peace despite anxiety, and growth from profound hopelessness. I’ve also begun utilizing EMDR, a powerful treatment modality that has the ability to alleviate symptoms associated with severe trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, and more.
In addition to EMDR therapy, I draw upon principles and interventions associated with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), humanistic, and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT).
Change is possible. Having provided therapy services since 2013, I have seen strength during depression, peace despite anxiety, and growth from profound hopelessness. I’ve also begun utilizing EMDR, a powerful treatment modality that has the ability to alleviate symptoms associated with severe trauma, depression, anxiety, phobias, and more.
(209) 690-8058 View (209) 690-8058
Photo of Jill Peeler, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Jill Peeler
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95376
My treatment modalities include individual and group psychotherapy utilizing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am passionate about helping people make positive changes in their lives. I will listen to you in a supportive manner and seek insight when you are challenged. I offer counseling services for individuals, couples, families, and teens. At times it can be hard to focus on daily living when we are challenged by emotional issues such as depression, grief, family matters, or personal troubles. I will help you work through your challenges by incorporating mindfulness and coping strategies to help deal with triggers.
My treatment modalities include individual and group psychotherapy utilizing Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Cognitive Processing Therapy (CPT), Prolonged Exposure (PE) Therapy, and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
I am passionate about helping people make positive changes in their lives. I will listen to you in a supportive manner and seek insight when you are challenged. I offer counseling services for individuals, couples, families, and teens. At times it can be hard to focus on daily living when we are challenged by emotional issues such as depression, grief, family matters, or personal troubles. I will help you work through your challenges by incorporating mindfulness and coping strategies to help deal with triggers.
(209) 528-0758 View (209) 528-0758
Photo of Nicole Muller, Psychologist in San Joaquin County, CA
Nicole Muller
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Lodi, CA 95240
I have undergone training in order to deliver evidence-based treatments for PTSD, including EMDR.
I am a Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of PTSD, substance use/addiction issues, and anxiety. I also work with clients experiencing insomnia, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, chronic pain, and life issues such as personal growth and relationship problems. I take a trauma-informed approach to treatment and believe in treating the whole person rather than simply focusing on symptom management. My commitment to a strength-based approach to treatment guides my work.
I have undergone training in order to deliver evidence-based treatments for PTSD, including EMDR.
I am a Clinical Psychologist specializing in the treatment of PTSD, substance use/addiction issues, and anxiety. I also work with clients experiencing insomnia, depression, bipolar disorder, panic disorder, chronic pain, and life issues such as personal growth and relationship problems. I take a trauma-informed approach to treatment and believe in treating the whole person rather than simply focusing on symptom management. My commitment to a strength-based approach to treatment guides my work.
(949) 996-9446 View (949) 996-9446
Photo of Irene Velasquez, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Irene Velasquez
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stockton, CA 95209
Hi, my name is Irene Velasquez, and I am an EMDR trained therapist. Some topics I like to help my clients work through are depression, anxiety low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, learning coping skills, burnout, & more. I am excited to be accepting new clients. If you are ready to begin your therapy journey this is your sign to check me out and get started. I use person-centered talk therapy, EMDR, & a combination of different techniques from CBT and DBT at times. Each treatment plan is tailored to the needs of the client.
Hi, my name is Irene Velasquez, and I am an EMDR trained therapist. Some topics I like to help my clients work through are depression, anxiety low self-esteem, imposter syndrome, learning coping skills, burnout, & more. I am excited to be accepting new clients. If you are ready to begin your therapy journey this is your sign to check me out and get started. I use person-centered talk therapy, EMDR, & a combination of different techniques from CBT and DBT at times. Each treatment plan is tailored to the needs of the client.
(707) 760-7469 View (707) 760-7469
Photo of Carrie Sciametta, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Carrie Sciametta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Manteca, CA 95336
I utilize EMDR and skills building, to join you in identifying the root of your struggles.
My name is Carrie Sciametta, LMFT, in my work I focus on healing from within, connecting you to your authentic self and learning to love yourself beyond measure. I have been practicing for 6 years and in the process have learned who I am and how I can support others through my work. If you struggle with self-love, feeling/believing you are enough, acceptance, or feeling lost, I understand and know what it takes to feel differently. If you struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing, codependence, isolating, avoiding, or any other behavior that prevents you from feeling like yourself, I would love to support you in healing.
I utilize EMDR and skills building, to join you in identifying the root of your struggles.
My name is Carrie Sciametta, LMFT, in my work I focus on healing from within, connecting you to your authentic self and learning to love yourself beyond measure. I have been practicing for 6 years and in the process have learned who I am and how I can support others through my work. If you struggle with self-love, feeling/believing you are enough, acceptance, or feeling lost, I understand and know what it takes to feel differently. If you struggle with anxiety, perfectionism, people pleasing, codependence, isolating, avoiding, or any other behavior that prevents you from feeling like yourself, I would love to support you in healing.
(949) 694-7986 View (949) 694-7986
Photo of Thasja Hoffman, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Thasja Hoffman
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Stockton, CA 95210
Hello, my name is Thasja Hoffmann, I am an LMFT & LPCC trauma-focused therapist. I have had over 20 years of experience, and I still feel very passionate about what I do. My main approach to therapy is to slow your experience down and help you notice what you are experiencing through Meta-awareness modalities and Mindfulness. I also find Somatic and EMDR approaches very helpful in processing information. My foundation in how I work comes from Humanistic/ Existential Psychology.
Hello, my name is Thasja Hoffmann, I am an LMFT & LPCC trauma-focused therapist. I have had over 20 years of experience, and I still feel very passionate about what I do. My main approach to therapy is to slow your experience down and help you notice what you are experiencing through Meta-awareness modalities and Mindfulness. I also find Somatic and EMDR approaches very helpful in processing information. My foundation in how I work comes from Humanistic/ Existential Psychology.
(415) 429-2839 View (415) 429-2839
Photo of Sergio Ibanez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Sergio Ibanez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Tracy, CA 95377
I am Sergio Ibanez, LCSW. My focus is to provide support and guidance. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy (ages 5 +) using client-center approach. I use a wide variety of therapeutic approaches including, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), etc.). I am bilingual, English and Spanish. My client focus is ages 5 years and up. Provide individual, couples, and family therapy.
I am Sergio Ibanez, LCSW. My focus is to provide support and guidance. I provide individual, couples, and family therapy (ages 5 +) using client-center approach. I use a wide variety of therapeutic approaches including, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), etc.). I am bilingual, English and Spanish. My client focus is ages 5 years and up. Provide individual, couples, and family therapy.
(323) 776-1626 View (323) 776-1626
Photo of Downey Park Counseling Associates, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Joaquin County, CA
Downey Park Counseling Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Stockton, CA 95205
For over 40 years, Downey Park Counseling Associates has provided caring, effective and powerful psychotherapy to families, couples, and individuals of all ages. We specialize in depression, anxiety, sexual addictions and trauma recovery utilizing CBT, VOICE, EMDR, and the latest in research based recovery.
For over 40 years, Downey Park Counseling Associates has provided caring, effective and powerful psychotherapy to families, couples, and individuals of all ages. We specialize in depression, anxiety, sexual addictions and trauma recovery utilizing CBT, VOICE, EMDR, and the latest in research based recovery.
(209) 584-6032 View (209) 584-6032

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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.