Photo of Garet Waterhouse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Garet Waterhouse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sex Therapy, EMDR, solution-focused therapy, and couples/relationship communication building.
Greetings! My practice has limited capacity, and is only able to accept new sex therapy and/or sexuality and relationship focused referrals as scheduling allows. I am no longer able to accept new insurance clients. I am licensed in California and Nevada, and offer video appointments as well as in person appointments for those in Sonoma County.
I specialize in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Sex Therapy, EMDR, solution-focused therapy, and couples/relationship communication building.
Greetings! My practice has limited capacity, and is only able to accept new sex therapy and/or sexuality and relationship focused referrals as scheduling allows. I am no longer able to accept new insurance clients. I am licensed in California and Nevada, and offer video appointments as well as in person appointments for those in Sonoma County.
(707) 595-9424 View (707) 595-9424
Photo of Sophora Acheson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Sophora Acheson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95405  (Online Only)
We've all experienced times of confusion, anger, and sadness, wanting for a safe and accepting space to navigate life's challenges. I'm dedicated to providing that place for you, helping you heal the parts that may feel lost and overwhelmed. As a compassionate straightforward Licensed Therapist, I specialize in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parts and Attachment Work. Together, we'll build the tool box you need for emotion regulation, fulfilling relationships, and to managing life's ups and downs with resilience.
We've all experienced times of confusion, anger, and sadness, wanting for a safe and accepting space to navigate life's challenges. I'm dedicated to providing that place for you, helping you heal the parts that may feel lost and overwhelmed. As a compassionate straightforward Licensed Therapist, I specialize in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Parts and Attachment Work. Together, we'll build the tool box you need for emotion regulation, fulfilling relationships, and to managing life's ups and downs with resilience.
(916) 432-2626 View (916) 432-2626
Photo of Patricia Mills, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Patricia Mills
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, SAP
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95403  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use an eclectic approach in therapy which may include client centered, attachment theory, EMDR, to have a successful therapeutic experience.
Welcome to my therapy practice. This is where growth and personal healing can really happen. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to helping individuals learn how to build healthier relationships and achieve their life goals. I believe developing a trusting relationship is essential to create change. I specialize in helping my clients not just get relief from painful emotional struggles—such as anxiety and depression—but also create lasting change in their most significant relationships.
I use an eclectic approach in therapy which may include client centered, attachment theory, EMDR, to have a successful therapeutic experience.
Welcome to my therapy practice. This is where growth and personal healing can really happen. I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist committed to helping individuals learn how to build healthier relationships and achieve their life goals. I believe developing a trusting relationship is essential to create change. I specialize in helping my clients not just get relief from painful emotional struggles—such as anxiety and depression—but also create lasting change in their most significant relationships.
(707) 926-4038 View (707) 926-4038
Photo of Deb Skinner, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Deb Skinner
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
We offer specialties in EMDR, CBT, Addiction, and talk therapy.
We are the therapy office for people who don't like therapy. Our belief is that therapy doesn't have to be the uncomfortable, somewhat formal experience that most people expect. We have 2 therapy dogs, Jackson and Larry to greet you when you come in the door. Larry is Jackson's understudy and is still quite ..well ... enthusiastic in greeting clients (as long as you're not the mailman). For privacy, we have no on Mendocino Ave, but once you get inside you'll know that you're in the right place. We talk to you like one human to another to help you sort out what's going on in your world and how we can help.
We offer specialties in EMDR, CBT, Addiction, and talk therapy.
We are the therapy office for people who don't like therapy. Our belief is that therapy doesn't have to be the uncomfortable, somewhat formal experience that most people expect. We have 2 therapy dogs, Jackson and Larry to greet you when you come in the door. Larry is Jackson's understudy and is still quite ..well ... enthusiastic in greeting clients (as long as you're not the mailman). For privacy, we have no on Mendocino Ave, but once you get inside you'll know that you're in the right place. We talk to you like one human to another to help you sort out what's going on in your world and how we can help.
(707) 306-8682 View (707) 306-8682
Photo of Dr. Laura Strom, PsyD, Trauma & Disabilities, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Dr. Laura Strom, PsyD, Trauma & Disabilities
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CRC
Verified Verified
25 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95403  (Online Only)
She also offers EMDR.
You deserve to feel better. So do your loved ones. Dr. Laura C. Strom, PsyD, Trauma & Disabilities Specialist, offers cutting-edge short-term trauma treatment learned from her years of working at Stanford. She understands how disabilities complicate matters, particularly hidden disabilities including Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and chronic pain. Dr. Strom works with children ages 4 and up, teens, adults and seniors. You don't have to live with this pain. Online scheduling. Visit http://LauraCStrom.com to start your journey towards lasting transformation.
She also offers EMDR.
You deserve to feel better. So do your loved ones. Dr. Laura C. Strom, PsyD, Trauma & Disabilities Specialist, offers cutting-edge short-term trauma treatment learned from her years of working at Stanford. She understands how disabilities complicate matters, particularly hidden disabilities including Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) and chronic pain. Dr. Strom works with children ages 4 and up, teens, adults and seniors. You don't have to live with this pain. Online scheduling. Visit http://LauraCStrom.com to start your journey towards lasting transformation.
(707) 889-9168 View (707) 889-9168
Photo of Kelly Noble, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Kelly Noble
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95405  (Online Only)
Whether using traditional talk therapy or tools such as EMDR or EFT, I help clients identify and heal old wounds that are impacting their current life experiences.
Working from an attachment theory perspective, I provide psychodynamic therapy to adults, couples, and families. I believe in using a strength-based approach, meeting the client where they are, and helping each person create realistic, achievable goals for our work together. My focus is in grief & loss, trauma, and attachment concerns.
Whether using traditional talk therapy or tools such as EMDR or EFT, I help clients identify and heal old wounds that are impacting their current life experiences.
Working from an attachment theory perspective, I provide psychodynamic therapy to adults, couples, and families. I believe in using a strength-based approach, meeting the client where they are, and helping each person create realistic, achievable goals for our work together. My focus is in grief & loss, trauma, and attachment concerns.
(707) 659-2777 View (707) 659-2777
Photo of Lynda Wilson, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Rosa, CA
Lynda Wilson
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95407  (Online Only)
Through empathetic understanding, a little creativity to keep it engaging, and evidence-based techniques including DBT, SFT, CBT, and EMDR, I equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to navigate life's complexities.
When you’re constantly on edge, haunted by past traumas, or overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, your experience is often a lonely one, leaving you exhausted and longing for relief and understanding. Although you’re hurting and probably wondering why this is happening, I’m glad that it’s led you to consider therapy. My mission is to create a safe and nurturing space where you can confront what’s going on inside, and discover a new way of being. When you trust me with your story, together we'll unpack the layers of your experiences, gently untangling the knots of trauma and grief that have been holding you back.
Through empathetic understanding, a little creativity to keep it engaging, and evidence-based techniques including DBT, SFT, CBT, and EMDR, I equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to navigate life's complexities.
When you’re constantly on edge, haunted by past traumas, or overwhelmed by anxious thoughts, your experience is often a lonely one, leaving you exhausted and longing for relief and understanding. Although you’re hurting and probably wondering why this is happening, I’m glad that it’s led you to consider therapy. My mission is to create a safe and nurturing space where you can confront what’s going on inside, and discover a new way of being. When you trust me with your story, together we'll unpack the layers of your experiences, gently untangling the knots of trauma and grief that have been holding you back.
(707) 532-0636 View (707) 532-0636
Photo of Marjorie Stornetta, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Marjorie Stornetta
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
I specialize in EMDR therapy which can be a very effective treatment to solve underlying problems once and for all.
At certain times in our lives, we become aware of uncomfortable feelings, and it may begin effecting our mood, sleep, relationships and general well being. We are living under very difficult and unusual circumstances that make life really hard sometimes. I can offer you a comfortable space to simply talk about what is bothering you. Together, we can explore what is happening in your life, and ways to work through the difficulties that are keeping you from the happiness you so richly deserve. I work with adults, always doing my best to provide all of my expertise in understandable, and helpful ways.
I specialize in EMDR therapy which can be a very effective treatment to solve underlying problems once and for all.
At certain times in our lives, we become aware of uncomfortable feelings, and it may begin effecting our mood, sleep, relationships and general well being. We are living under very difficult and unusual circumstances that make life really hard sometimes. I can offer you a comfortable space to simply talk about what is bothering you. Together, we can explore what is happening in your life, and ways to work through the difficulties that are keeping you from the happiness you so richly deserve. I work with adults, always doing my best to provide all of my expertise in understandable, and helpful ways.
(707) 267-2872 View (707) 267-2872
Photo of Michael Godby, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Michael Godby
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
I use an eclectic approach using Existential Therapy, Systems Therapy, Transpersonal Therapy, EMDR, and Brief Therapy.
My name is Mike Godby, and I am a psychotherapist with a master's degree in clinical psychology. I have been trained in relationships with myself and others. Many of my clients have issues with family, friends' bosses, and spouses. I use an approach of uncovering the self. When a person begins to know themselves. it's possible to have the right relationships with others because they have taken responsibility for themselves and have the clarity to decide who is in their inner circle. I use a gentle approach derived from over 50 years of meditation. I invite you to uncover yourself. Mike
I use an eclectic approach using Existential Therapy, Systems Therapy, Transpersonal Therapy, EMDR, and Brief Therapy.
My name is Mike Godby, and I am a psychotherapist with a master's degree in clinical psychology. I have been trained in relationships with myself and others. Many of my clients have issues with family, friends' bosses, and spouses. I use an approach of uncovering the self. When a person begins to know themselves. it's possible to have the right relationships with others because they have taken responsibility for themselves and have the clarity to decide who is in their inner circle. I use a gentle approach derived from over 50 years of meditation. I invite you to uncover yourself. Mike
(707) 873-7291 View (707) 873-7291
Photo of Katie Dyer, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Katie Dyer
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
I believe in deep and lasting change, and use brainspotting, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems approaches.
For many of us, especially when we've tried before, it can feel impossible to even hope that change or healing may be possible. We feel blocked by moods, situations, patterns that we can't seem to change. On the other hand, many of us long to live a life in which we are wholly our self, to live from spaciousness and authenticity. If you're here, there's a part of you still holding hope. My approach in therapy is to address the parts of you that are hurting, to help them heal using trauma-informed modalities, then to help you to expand into whatever felt sense you are missing- calm, confidence, connectedness, clarity, ease.
I believe in deep and lasting change, and use brainspotting, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems approaches.
For many of us, especially when we've tried before, it can feel impossible to even hope that change or healing may be possible. We feel blocked by moods, situations, patterns that we can't seem to change. On the other hand, many of us long to live a life in which we are wholly our self, to live from spaciousness and authenticity. If you're here, there's a part of you still holding hope. My approach in therapy is to address the parts of you that are hurting, to help them heal using trauma-informed modalities, then to help you to expand into whatever felt sense you are missing- calm, confidence, connectedness, clarity, ease.
(707) 414-3650 View (707) 414-3650
Photo of Meg Pierce, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Meg Pierce
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
While I have specialized training in EMDR & Critical Incident Stress Management, my work is also informed by art, dreams, and symbols.
My 35 year professional career has spanned a range of human problems from couple's conflict to trauma recovery. I have come to understand that whether a person is grappling with depression or chronic illness there is an opportunity for greater understanding of themselves, and by extension, of what it means to be a whole & complete human being in the world.
While I have specialized training in EMDR & Critical Incident Stress Management, my work is also informed by art, dreams, and symbols.
My 35 year professional career has spanned a range of human problems from couple's conflict to trauma recovery. I have come to understand that whether a person is grappling with depression or chronic illness there is an opportunity for greater understanding of themselves, and by extension, of what it means to be a whole & complete human being in the world.
(707) 560-1958 View (707) 560-1958
Photo of Kate Blake, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Kate Blake
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing the ongoing impacts of past trauma and are ready to heal and move forward. I have over 10 years of experience working with complex trauma (C-PTSD). I am certified in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and am also trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy. I believe both of these approaches are powerful tools to heal past trauma. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused CBT and DBT. As a trauma-informed therapist, I believe it is important to work at a pace that feels safe to you. I will offer support, guidance, and empathy throughout the process.
I specialize in working with clients who are experiencing the ongoing impacts of past trauma and are ready to heal and move forward. I have over 10 years of experience working with complex trauma (C-PTSD). I am certified in EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and am also trained in Internal Family Systems Therapy. I believe both of these approaches are powerful tools to heal past trauma. I am also trained in Trauma-Focused CBT and DBT. As a trauma-informed therapist, I believe it is important to work at a pace that feels safe to you. I will offer support, guidance, and empathy throughout the process.
(415) 798-9871 View (415) 798-9871
Photo of Mealani M Smith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Mealani M Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
I utilize Brainspotting, EMDR and Somatic work which is supportive for deep and lively healing.
When provided well, therapy becomes one of the most valuable investments of your life, because it provides the foundation for creating a more peaceful and fulfilling existence. I believe we all have an innate ability to live a life of purpose. I am simply a guide to support you in arriving there. You will learn to communicate effectively and create a balanced life through shifting your engrained responses related to your experiences of trauma, relationships and biological aspects.
I utilize Brainspotting, EMDR and Somatic work which is supportive for deep and lively healing.
When provided well, therapy becomes one of the most valuable investments of your life, because it provides the foundation for creating a more peaceful and fulfilling existence. I believe we all have an innate ability to live a life of purpose. I am simply a guide to support you in arriving there. You will learn to communicate effectively and create a balanced life through shifting your engrained responses related to your experiences of trauma, relationships and biological aspects.
(707) 238-7159 View (707) 238-7159
Photo of Sandra Ellen Seligson, Psychologist in Santa Rosa, CA
Sandra Ellen Seligson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95405
I work with the following methods: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
Individual and couples psychotherapy to resolve current and long standing issues that compromise personal happiness and success.
I work with the following methods: Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Psychodynamic Psychotherapy.
Individual and couples psychotherapy to resolve current and long standing issues that compromise personal happiness and success.
(707) 814-4044 View (707) 814-4044
Photo of Devon Maher, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Devon Maher
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, CET, SEP, RYT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95403  (Online Only)
I utilize an eclectic framework, incorporating an object relations theoretical orientation, with mindfulness, somatic experiencing, SFT, narrative therapy, CBT, EMDR and relational dynamics.
Hello, and Welcome, I'm Devon Maher. I'm a licensed Marriage Family Therapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Mindfulness Based Eco Therapist (Therapy Outdoors) and a Registered Yoga Teacher. I've been working in the mental health field over 10 years and am deeply drawn to this work. I believe in the power and capacity of each human being and their ability to heal. I believe with the right support, understanding, and guidance we all can live with more ease, belonging, and happiness, and live a truly fulfilled life. If you're struggling and want support in living a more fulfilled life, reach out, theres no better time than now.
I utilize an eclectic framework, incorporating an object relations theoretical orientation, with mindfulness, somatic experiencing, SFT, narrative therapy, CBT, EMDR and relational dynamics.
Hello, and Welcome, I'm Devon Maher. I'm a licensed Marriage Family Therapist, Somatic Experiencing Practitioner, Mindfulness Based Eco Therapist (Therapy Outdoors) and a Registered Yoga Teacher. I've been working in the mental health field over 10 years and am deeply drawn to this work. I believe in the power and capacity of each human being and their ability to heal. I believe with the right support, understanding, and guidance we all can live with more ease, belonging, and happiness, and live a truly fulfilled life. If you're struggling and want support in living a more fulfilled life, reach out, theres no better time than now.
(707) 309-2759 View (707) 309-2759
Photo of Sharmila Chitnis-Fallon, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Sharmila Chitnis-Fallon
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, BCD
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
I utilize evidence-based treatments such as attachment-focused EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, & mindfulness.
Psychotherapy can offer a process to better understand the relationship between our thoughts, feelings (emotions and physiology), and behaviors. I work with people from all walks of life and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, career/identity issues, and adjustment difficulties related to life transitions and illness. Some of my therapeutic goals include helping clients manage symptoms of distress with healthier coping, improving relationships (with self and others), and exploring the ways in which current problems may be linked to unresolved issues from the past.
I utilize evidence-based treatments such as attachment-focused EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, & mindfulness.
Psychotherapy can offer a process to better understand the relationship between our thoughts, feelings (emotions and physiology), and behaviors. I work with people from all walks of life and specialize in treating anxiety, depression, grief/loss, trauma, career/identity issues, and adjustment difficulties related to life transitions and illness. Some of my therapeutic goals include helping clients manage symptoms of distress with healthier coping, improving relationships (with self and others), and exploring the ways in which current problems may be linked to unresolved issues from the past.
(510) 256-7794 View (510) 256-7794
Photo of Erin D Jackson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Erin D Jackson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with specialties in Art Therapy and EMDR. I work with older teens and adults who are struggling with living their lives to the fullest. I can help you look at and reprocess traumas that have happened through out your life. I can offer tools to help you live more in the present and strive for the future you want. I believe that everyone can grow with their experiences and learn to thrive in their life. Together we can take this journey of self discovery.
I am a Marriage and Family Therapist with specialties in Art Therapy and EMDR. I work with older teens and adults who are struggling with living their lives to the fullest. I can help you look at and reprocess traumas that have happened through out your life. I can offer tools to help you live more in the present and strive for the future you want. I believe that everyone can grow with their experiences and learn to thrive in their life. Together we can take this journey of self discovery.
(707) 385-1207 View (707) 385-1207
Photo of Julie Fennimore, Psychologist in Santa Rosa, CA
Julie Fennimore
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95404
I have many years of training in long-term psychodynamic interpersonal work, cognitive behavior psychotherapy, (CBT) dialectical behavior psychotherapy ( DBT), Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) and mindfulness.
Are you struggling with your life in some way? I create a safe and supportive environment in which we work together to address what is preventing you from living your life in a way that feels right to you. I have over 20 years of experience as a clinical psychologist and use an integrative approach to identify the underlying causes of your distress and guide you to be able to process and heal. I love my work and feel honored to be part of helping you recover so that you are able to engage in your life in a more fulfilling and satisfying way.
I have many years of training in long-term psychodynamic interpersonal work, cognitive behavior psychotherapy, (CBT) dialectical behavior psychotherapy ( DBT), Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing ( EMDR), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, (ACT) and mindfulness.
Are you struggling with your life in some way? I create a safe and supportive environment in which we work together to address what is preventing you from living your life in a way that feels right to you. I have over 20 years of experience as a clinical psychologist and use an integrative approach to identify the underlying causes of your distress and guide you to be able to process and heal. I love my work and feel honored to be part of helping you recover so that you are able to engage in your life in a more fulfilling and satisfying way.
(707) 669-4256 View (707) 669-4256
Photo of Sonoma County Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Santa Rosa, CA
Sonoma County Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Santa Rosa, CA 95403
We also offer evidence based services, such as PCIT for children and EMDR for trauma.
Sonoma County Counseling provides exceptional personalized counseling services for clients of all ages. Sonoma County Counseling was founded with an eye on providing supportive cutting edge therapeutic counseling services to individuals and families, in a professional, welcoming, mindful, inclusive, and enriched environment. We welcome individuals, couples, and families. Sonoma County Counseling specializes in child therapy services that help children (ages 3 - 12), teenagers, and families, as well as adults who are living with acute or chronic mental health challenges.
We also offer evidence based services, such as PCIT for children and EMDR for trauma.
Sonoma County Counseling provides exceptional personalized counseling services for clients of all ages. Sonoma County Counseling was founded with an eye on providing supportive cutting edge therapeutic counseling services to individuals and families, in a professional, welcoming, mindful, inclusive, and enriched environment. We welcome individuals, couples, and families. Sonoma County Counseling specializes in child therapy services that help children (ages 3 - 12), teenagers, and families, as well as adults who are living with acute or chronic mental health challenges.
(707) 993-4474 View (707) 993-4474
Photo of Lida Hughes, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Santa Rosa, CA
Lida Hughes
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Rosa, CA 95404  (Online Only)
I use an integrative approach, incorporating somatic and mindfulness work with evidenced-based modalities including EMDR and ACT, as well as the Gottman Method in couples sessions.
Are you navigating life changes, challenges, or difficulties in your relationship? Perhaps you've had negative past experiences and are hoping to heal and process trauma. Maybe you are feeling anxious, lost, or stuck and want to find ways to feel more peace, inspiration, and connection in your life. Whatever your situation is in this moment, I am here to provide a warm, supportive, and thoughtful environment where you can engage in deep exploration and create positive change in your life.
I use an integrative approach, incorporating somatic and mindfulness work with evidenced-based modalities including EMDR and ACT, as well as the Gottman Method in couples sessions.
Are you navigating life changes, challenges, or difficulties in your relationship? Perhaps you've had negative past experiences and are hoping to heal and process trauma. Maybe you are feeling anxious, lost, or stuck and want to find ways to feel more peace, inspiration, and connection in your life. Whatever your situation is in this moment, I am here to provide a warm, supportive, and thoughtful environment where you can engage in deep exploration and create positive change in your life.
(707) 735-0477 View (707) 735-0477
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.