EMDR Therapists in Vista, CA

Photo of Rachel Vierra, MFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rachel Vierra
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083  (Online Only)
I specialize in working with postpartum parents, trauma and clinicians. I'm trained in EMDR and enjoy helping clients to process their trauma and and set future goals to enjoy their lives and manage stressors.
I specialize in working with postpartum parents, trauma and clinicians. I'm trained in EMDR and enjoy helping clients to process their trauma and and set future goals to enjoy their lives and manage stressors.
(760) 517-6612 View (760) 517-6612
Photo of Naomi Cooper Martin - Trauma and Relationship Counseling, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Trauma and Relationship Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
Through CBT, EMDR, and neurofeedback, we provide healing for and freedom from those memories and experiences.
We are here to help people who recognize that they no longer want to live in the space they have been living in and are looking for help to bring about change in their lives. We are seeking clients who are ready to hear what they need to hear to make changes to life.
Through CBT, EMDR, and neurofeedback, we provide healing for and freedom from those memories and experiences.
We are here to help people who recognize that they no longer want to live in the space they have been living in and are looking for help to bring about change in their lives. We are seeking clients who are ready to hear what they need to hear to make changes to life.
(760) 760-4196 View (760) 760-4196
Photo of Cheryl L Gilbert - Cheryl L Gilbert, LMFT, MA, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cheryl L Gilbert, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92084  (Online Only)
Through the use of EMDR, I am able to provide healing for issues such as PTSD, childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I see clients as on a journey of self-discovery to reach their own goals for health and healing. I join my clients on this journey and help to facilitate this process, acting as navigator while they direct the destination. I assist clients in discovering their strengths and support them in walking through their struggles, whether it be anxiety, depression, mood or personality disorders, or relationship difficulties. My joy is to see my clients find within themselves the answers to their questions and struggles, while empathetically supporting the process. I also have extensive experience with trauma and its effects.
Through the use of EMDR, I am able to provide healing for issues such as PTSD, childhood trauma, anxiety, depression, and self-esteem.
I see clients as on a journey of self-discovery to reach their own goals for health and healing. I join my clients on this journey and help to facilitate this process, acting as navigator while they direct the destination. I assist clients in discovering their strengths and support them in walking through their struggles, whether it be anxiety, depression, mood or personality disorders, or relationship difficulties. My joy is to see my clients find within themselves the answers to their questions and struggles, while empathetically supporting the process. I also have extensive experience with trauma and its effects.
(714) 278-3138 View (714) 278-3138
Photo of Jennie Azofeifa, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Jennie Azofeifa
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist with EMDRIA.
I believe that hope and healing are possible for anyone. Whether you are experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties, I can help identify underlying factors that keep you stuck and prevent you from living a full, vibrant life. I provide a safe and nurturing environment where you can be heard and empowered to transform your daily reality.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist with EMDRIA.
I believe that hope and healing are possible for anyone. Whether you are experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, or relationship difficulties, I can help identify underlying factors that keep you stuck and prevent you from living a full, vibrant life. I provide a safe and nurturing environment where you can be heard and empowered to transform your daily reality.
(760) 512-8014 View (760) 512-8014
Photo of Corinne Dolley Helena, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Corinne Dolley Helena
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92084
I am recently EMDR (trauma) trained --.
I am happy to work with anyone who is seeking some support in facing the normal vicissitudes of life. Not everything has to be a major trauma. Sometimes life is challenging and simple non-biased support is helpful. Other times a major event occurs and it is emotionally devastating. I truly believe that another human being walking with you in that time is crucial to healing. Your needs are what matter to me. I would be honored to accompany you on the path to a more peaceful life.
I am recently EMDR (trauma) trained --.
I am happy to work with anyone who is seeking some support in facing the normal vicissitudes of life. Not everything has to be a major trauma. Sometimes life is challenging and simple non-biased support is helpful. Other times a major event occurs and it is emotionally devastating. I truly believe that another human being walking with you in that time is crucial to healing. Your needs are what matter to me. I would be honored to accompany you on the path to a more peaceful life.
(858) 260-3052 View (858) 260-3052
Photo of Theresa Wallace, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Theresa Wallace
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92084  (Online Only)
Sometimes I'll bring in inner child work into my EMDR sessions to help my clients learn how to effectively reparent themselves when our focus is on early childhood, complex trauma.
Hello there, I'm Theresa Wallace and I have a License in Clinical Social Work (LCSW). I use a person centered, trauma informed approach, and I spend time asking each of my clients about their goals for therapy so I can prioritize which modalities are best used to help my clients reach their goals. I typically treat adults ages 18-60 who endure Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I use a Socratic/Psychodynamic approach to help clients build insight into what behaviors may or may not be serving them, and where they may have originated from.
Sometimes I'll bring in inner child work into my EMDR sessions to help my clients learn how to effectively reparent themselves when our focus is on early childhood, complex trauma.
Hello there, I'm Theresa Wallace and I have a License in Clinical Social Work (LCSW). I use a person centered, trauma informed approach, and I spend time asking each of my clients about their goals for therapy so I can prioritize which modalities are best used to help my clients reach their goals. I typically treat adults ages 18-60 who endure Anxiety, Depression, and Trauma. I use a Socratic/Psychodynamic approach to help clients build insight into what behaviors may or may not be serving them, and where they may have originated from.
(760) 374-8472 View (760) 374-8472
Photo of Lorraine Swineford, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Lorraine Swineford
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
EMDR is been proven through research to re-process trauma and put you on a path to healing.
Hi, yes, there are a lot of therapists to choose from. but for the moment, you and I have landed in the same space! If your looking for what makes me different, I've been around a few years and have been through a lot. I get it. I am also trained as a trauma therapist and have a specialized training in couples therapy. I work with families, individuals, couples and children. My only goal is help you feel better, I do that through holding space for you during the hard stuff, I will help you get through it. I am warm and kind, but I will tell it like it is when you need to hear it.
EMDR is been proven through research to re-process trauma and put you on a path to healing.
Hi, yes, there are a lot of therapists to choose from. but for the moment, you and I have landed in the same space! If your looking for what makes me different, I've been around a few years and have been through a lot. I get it. I am also trained as a trauma therapist and have a specialized training in couples therapy. I work with families, individuals, couples and children. My only goal is help you feel better, I do that through holding space for you during the hard stuff, I will help you get through it. I am warm and kind, but I will tell it like it is when you need to hear it.
(760) 313-6234 View (760) 313-6234
Photo of Leanne Anaya Reece, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Leanne Anaya Reece
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92084
I am a Masters-level substance abuse specialist, trained in mindfulness, somatic therapies and EMDR, and use culturally-sensitive, relational, attachment-based treatment orientations.
Hi there! I am a warm, supportive, non-judgmental therapist that helps people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, substance dependence, and relationshIp issues. I believe that therapy is a partnership, and it's through this connection that we are better able to understand our difficulties. Starting from my career in entertainment, I've worked with a diverse group of people. I have extensive experience working with creative, intelligent, caring, sensitive people. By working closely together, my clients build positive self-images, develop healthy relationships, and ultimately lead more harmonious, fulfilling lives.
I am a Masters-level substance abuse specialist, trained in mindfulness, somatic therapies and EMDR, and use culturally-sensitive, relational, attachment-based treatment orientations.
Hi there! I am a warm, supportive, non-judgmental therapist that helps people with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, substance dependence, and relationshIp issues. I believe that therapy is a partnership, and it's through this connection that we are better able to understand our difficulties. Starting from my career in entertainment, I've worked with a diverse group of people. I have extensive experience working with creative, intelligent, caring, sensitive people. By working closely together, my clients build positive self-images, develop healthy relationships, and ultimately lead more harmonious, fulfilling lives.
(626) 262-4655 View (626) 262-4655
Photo of Cynthia Casey, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Cynthia Casey
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083
I utilize a variety of evidence based therapeutic interventions including EMDR, Mindfulness, DBT, CBT to address specific individual issues and Emotionally Focused and Gottman Couples therapy to find internal peace within your relationships.
Through life's journey there are times that we may feel stuck as if there is a part of you that won't allow you to reach your goals? Do you want more from your life or are you finding it hard to get through your day without feeling anxious, angry, sad or overwhelmed? Do you struggle with addictive or compulsive behaviors? Or are you having relationship issues with your loved ones or coworkers? There is hope. I can be an effective resource in helping to you identify and move toward your goals, becoming a happier and healthier you.
I utilize a variety of evidence based therapeutic interventions including EMDR, Mindfulness, DBT, CBT to address specific individual issues and Emotionally Focused and Gottman Couples therapy to find internal peace within your relationships.
Through life's journey there are times that we may feel stuck as if there is a part of you that won't allow you to reach your goals? Do you want more from your life or are you finding it hard to get through your day without feeling anxious, angry, sad or overwhelmed? Do you struggle with addictive or compulsive behaviors? Or are you having relationship issues with your loved ones or coworkers? There is hope. I can be an effective resource in helping to you identify and move toward your goals, becoming a happier and healthier you.
(760) 678-4295 View (760) 678-4295
Photo of Catherine Maddox, MA,  LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Catherine Maddox
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081
Kate is deeply passionate about treating cooccurring disorders, specializing in helping clients manage substance abuse alongside mental health conditions. She utilizes a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), to empower clients on their journey to recovery. Kate also focuses on addressing codependency and women's issues, providing targeted support for those dealing with postpartum depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
Kate is deeply passionate about treating cooccurring disorders, specializing in helping clients manage substance abuse alongside mental health conditions. She utilizes a range of therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), to empower clients on their journey to recovery. Kate also focuses on addressing codependency and women's issues, providing targeted support for those dealing with postpartum depression, anxiety, and life transitions.
(855) 419-3254 View (855) 419-3254
Photo of Eryn Katheryn Sparzo, LMFT, CIP, Marriage & Family Therapist
Eryn Katheryn Sparzo
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, CIP
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist who cares deeply about my clients and their healing. My goal is to help you identify and heal from trauma, past and present that prevents you from living your best life. In addition to cognitive and solution focused therapy, I am trained in somatic modalities such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy and LENS Neurofeedback. Because I believe everyone is uniquely designed, I use an integrated approach to therapy and work closely with you to create a customized treatment plan.
I am a licensed Marriage and Family therapist who cares deeply about my clients and their healing. My goal is to help you identify and heal from trauma, past and present that prevents you from living your best life. In addition to cognitive and solution focused therapy, I am trained in somatic modalities such as EMDR, Brainspotting, Hypnotherapy and LENS Neurofeedback. Because I believe everyone is uniquely designed, I use an integrated approach to therapy and work closely with you to create a customized treatment plan.
(916) 823-8697 View (916) 823-8697
Photo of Kendra Claire Wilhelm, BS, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kendra Claire Wilhelm
Marriage & Family Therapist, BS, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083
I use EMDR, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Therapy to help you feel, heal and manage challenges to live a rich life.
Do you struggle managing your emotions, dissatisfaction with your life, shame & guilt, anxiety or exhaustion? Are you overcome by difficult experiences from the past or loss? I am passionate about empowering teens and adults with emotional distress, self doubt, relationship issues or repeat patterns, who feel stressed, stuck & overwhelmed. I specialize in trauma and also help with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, self-esteem, relationship issues, body image, mindfulness, inner child work, boundaries & sexuality. I will help you untangle the painful & frustrating areas of your life to make room for a life of joy and ease.
I use EMDR, Internal Family Systems and Somatic Therapy to help you feel, heal and manage challenges to live a rich life.
Do you struggle managing your emotions, dissatisfaction with your life, shame & guilt, anxiety or exhaustion? Are you overcome by difficult experiences from the past or loss? I am passionate about empowering teens and adults with emotional distress, self doubt, relationship issues or repeat patterns, who feel stressed, stuck & overwhelmed. I specialize in trauma and also help with anxiety, perfectionism, burnout, self-esteem, relationship issues, body image, mindfulness, inner child work, boundaries & sexuality. I will help you untangle the painful & frustrating areas of your life to make room for a life of joy and ease.
(619) 367-8413 View (619) 367-8413
Photo of Dora Nayely Valencia, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dora Nayely Valencia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083  (Online Only)
I draw from treatments such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy to create an individualized and holistic approach for processing and healing.
Currently Accepting New Clients: Welcome. It takes great courage to take the first step in seeking support for past or current experiences. As a therapist, I use a collaborative approach to explore areas of stress and concern to establish goals towards personal growth and change. In doing so, my goal is to provide a safe environment that is free of judgement when embarking on your journey of healing and self-improvement.
I draw from treatments such as CBT, DBT, EMDR, and Solution-Focused Therapy to create an individualized and holistic approach for processing and healing.
Currently Accepting New Clients: Welcome. It takes great courage to take the first step in seeking support for past or current experiences. As a therapist, I use a collaborative approach to explore areas of stress and concern to establish goals towards personal growth and change. In doing so, my goal is to provide a safe environment that is free of judgement when embarking on your journey of healing and self-improvement.
(442) 253-1168 View (442) 253-1168
Photo of Gretchen Slover, LMFT, PsyD, MALaw, Marriage & Family Therapist
Gretchen Slover
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, PsyD, MALaw
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
EMDR is a process that can take the edge off of those traumatic experiences and help move you to a new place of clarity.
When you find yourself needing a divorce, and as a couple, you want to end the relationship on your terms, you can turn to me for Divorce Mediation. Often clients possess the means to resolving issues and they just need a little help to arrive there. I offer sound solutions after problems are identified. Let me also serve as your independent mediator for child custody. Designed to assist an already overburdened court system it is the logical process to choose.
EMDR is a process that can take the edge off of those traumatic experiences and help move you to a new place of clarity.
When you find yourself needing a divorce, and as a couple, you want to end the relationship on your terms, you can turn to me for Divorce Mediation. Often clients possess the means to resolving issues and they just need a little help to arrive there. I offer sound solutions after problems are identified. Let me also serve as your independent mediator for child custody. Designed to assist an already overburdened court system it is the logical process to choose.
(928) 267-6104 View (928) 267-6104
Photo of Jennifer Hill - Healing Hearts Counseling Center, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Healing Hearts Counseling Center
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
Certifications include EMDR specialist, trainings include play/sand tray therapy and somatic experiencing.
Our overall mission is to promote behavioral health and wellness for our clients to obtain a high quality of life within themselves, their family, and their community. We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that include assessment, short-term solution focused interventions, consultation with other providers, and crisis intervention. If you are feeling stuck, stressed from life circumstances, or having trouble adjusting to new transitions, then please contact us. We are here for you!
Certifications include EMDR specialist, trainings include play/sand tray therapy and somatic experiencing.
Our overall mission is to promote behavioral health and wellness for our clients to obtain a high quality of life within themselves, their family, and their community. We work with a wide range of emotional and behavioral issues providing services that include assessment, short-term solution focused interventions, consultation with other providers, and crisis intervention. If you are feeling stuck, stressed from life circumstances, or having trouble adjusting to new transitions, then please contact us. We are here for you!
(760) 648-4057 View (760) 648-4057
Photo of Diana M Trevino - Trevino Counseling & Wellness, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Trevino Counseling & Wellness
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081
I help individuals break the cycle of unhealthy relationships, anxiety, and recent or past traumatic experiences that continue to impact them today with the use of EMDR and Somatic techniques that create deeper work and long lasting change.
Have you been feeling anxious, angry, hurt, sad? It's not just one thing that happened in your life. It's the build up of many things, relationships and events, that have left you feeling this way. You feel as if your mind runs away with you and find it so hard to gain control of it and your reactions. It's just not worth the fight anymore. But before you give up and surrender to your thoughts, there is still hope.
I help individuals break the cycle of unhealthy relationships, anxiety, and recent or past traumatic experiences that continue to impact them today with the use of EMDR and Somatic techniques that create deeper work and long lasting change.
Have you been feeling anxious, angry, hurt, sad? It's not just one thing that happened in your life. It's the build up of many things, relationships and events, that have left you feeling this way. You feel as if your mind runs away with you and find it so hard to gain control of it and your reactions. It's just not worth the fight anymore. But before you give up and surrender to your thoughts, there is still hope.
(760) 538-3105 View (760) 538-3105
Photo of Complex Trauma And Identity Healing Catherine Lamme, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Complex Trauma And Identity Healing Catherine Lamme
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92083
I blend a mixture of trainings in trauma specific modalities including somatic IFS, Brainspotting, EMDR, compassionate care and overall integration of body work.
Welcome! Are you feeling tired of the patterns and old stories that impact the development of your vitality and the best version of your life? Does your sense of self feel fractured? Does your body seem to mirror the internal negative thought patterns that seem to block you creating the life you want to live? Do you feel like there are moments that you cannot imagine living in the internal chaos another moment? I am inspired and honored to work with adults who are motivated to heal and release the negative internal stories, especially from trauma, that have dictated their behavior in order to create their own life worth living.
I blend a mixture of trainings in trauma specific modalities including somatic IFS, Brainspotting, EMDR, compassionate care and overall integration of body work.
Welcome! Are you feeling tired of the patterns and old stories that impact the development of your vitality and the best version of your life? Does your sense of self feel fractured? Does your body seem to mirror the internal negative thought patterns that seem to block you creating the life you want to live? Do you feel like there are moments that you cannot imagine living in the internal chaos another moment? I am inspired and honored to work with adults who are motivated to heal and release the negative internal stories, especially from trauma, that have dictated their behavior in order to create their own life worth living.
(760) 263-6052 View (760) 263-6052
Photo of Dulce Reyes, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dulce Reyes
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92083
Hi there, I'm Dulce Reyes, a Marriage & Family Therapist. I'm a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish) who has helped people with anxiety, depression, self esteem, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, relationship issues, life transitions, substance use, trauma, PTSD, and more. I use techniques from cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), mindfulness-based, attachment-based, client centered, EMDR, and motivational interviewing modalities. Together, we will construct new, healthier, and more empowered narratives to find your inner voice, rewrite your story, heal, and discover your worth and value.
Hi there, I'm Dulce Reyes, a Marriage & Family Therapist. I'm a bilingual therapist (English and Spanish) who has helped people with anxiety, depression, self esteem, bipolar disorder, borderline personality, relationship issues, life transitions, substance use, trauma, PTSD, and more. I use techniques from cognitive behavioral (CBT), dialectical behavioral (DBT), mindfulness-based, attachment-based, client centered, EMDR, and motivational interviewing modalities. Together, we will construct new, healthier, and more empowered narratives to find your inner voice, rewrite your story, heal, and discover your worth and value.
(909) 310-1345 View (909) 310-1345
Photo of Emily Corner, MFT, PhD, Marriage & Family Therapist
Emily Corner
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT, PhD
Verified Verified
Vista, CA 92081  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I appreciate you clicking on my page to learn more about my practice. I focus on helping adult individuals heal from all forms of trauma, including emotional, physical, sexual, and attachment injuries. I specialize in using EMDR and inner child work to help clients heal from their past traumatic experiences.
Hello and welcome! I appreciate you clicking on my page to learn more about my practice. I focus on helping adult individuals heal from all forms of trauma, including emotional, physical, sexual, and attachment injuries. I specialize in using EMDR and inner child work to help clients heal from their past traumatic experiences.
(760) 239-5387 View (760) 239-5387
Photo of Dr. Teri Davis, EdD, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Teri Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, EdD, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vista, CA 92081  (Online Only)
I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am certified in EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Are you experiencing anxiety or have history of trauma? I work with individual adults struggling with anxiety, stress, trauma, shame, boundary and self-esteem issues. Offering a spiritual, sensitive, holistic, client-centered approach, I can guide those who are seeking a place of healing and stability. Focusing on your strengths we'll work together to uncover insights and unhealthy patterns to discover solutions and help identify new perspectives for building your resilience. Mental health problems don't define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but, you are NOT the rain.
I specialize in using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and am certified in EMDR - Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Are you experiencing anxiety or have history of trauma? I work with individual adults struggling with anxiety, stress, trauma, shame, boundary and self-esteem issues. Offering a spiritual, sensitive, holistic, client-centered approach, I can guide those who are seeking a place of healing and stability. Focusing on your strengths we'll work together to uncover insights and unhealthy patterns to discover solutions and help identify new perspectives for building your resilience. Mental health problems don't define who you are. They are something you experience. You walk in the rain and you feel the rain, but, you are NOT the rain.
(760) 891-5935 View (760) 891-5935
1
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.