EMDR Therapists in Portland, OR

Photo of Megan Rose Larson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Megan Rose Larson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97217  (Online Only)
For clients w/ trauma, anxiety, & OCD- I offer EMDR services, an evidence base practice proven to reduce overall disturbance levels in most clients.
OPEN for Clients-Are you struggling w/ an event that left you with nightmares, flashbacks, negative beliefs or expectations about yourself or others (eg "I'm bad"), startle responses, feeling anxious, depressed, or have difficulty concentrating? If your goal is to feel more confident in your own skin and to sleep soundly at night therapy can help. Are you and your partner struggling with parenting, infidelity, or communication? Therapy can help. - Cash Pay Only- Sliding Scale Currently Full-
For clients w/ trauma, anxiety, & OCD- I offer EMDR services, an evidence base practice proven to reduce overall disturbance levels in most clients.
OPEN for Clients-Are you struggling w/ an event that left you with nightmares, flashbacks, negative beliefs or expectations about yourself or others (eg "I'm bad"), startle responses, feeling anxious, depressed, or have difficulty concentrating? If your goal is to feel more confident in your own skin and to sleep soundly at night therapy can help. Are you and your partner struggling with parenting, infidelity, or communication? Therapy can help. - Cash Pay Only- Sliding Scale Currently Full-
(270) 479-7576 View (270) 479-7576
Photo of Benita K Bellrichard Munson, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Benita K Bellrichard Munson
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, CRC, CADC I
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97221
My passion is to help people have more fulfilling relationships. When we are in conflict with others, it often feels easier to walk away or shut down. I am EFT couples trained, as well as trained in PACT Level 1 neurobiology for couples. Both therapies are evidence based n helping people improve communication and reduce relational distress. I am experienced in working with same sex relationships, addictions, and can help with divorce support, boundaries, and parenting issues as well. I am also EMDR trained and certified, which is an evidence based therapy for trauma.
My passion is to help people have more fulfilling relationships. When we are in conflict with others, it often feels easier to walk away or shut down. I am EFT couples trained, as well as trained in PACT Level 1 neurobiology for couples. Both therapies are evidence based n helping people improve communication and reduce relational distress. I am experienced in working with same sex relationships, addictions, and can help with divorce support, boundaries, and parenting issues as well. I am also EMDR trained and certified, which is an evidence based therapy for trauma.
(971) 299-2874 View (971) 299-2874
Photo of Daniel G Stinea LLC, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Daniel G Stinea LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, CADCIII
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
Waitlist for new clients
My main modalities of treatment are EMDR and Lifespan Integration (LI), which are brain-changing therapy methods that focus on both the mind and the body.
As a Mental Health Counselor licensed in Oregon and Washington, I work with individuals who have been through trauma and abuse and are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety or depression, as well as substance abuse that are affecting their well-being and causing relationship issues. I believe that mind, body and spirit issues contribute to anxiety, depression, mood, addictions and relationship issues. My modalities of treatment include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), LI (Lifespan Integration), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and Motivational Interviewing.
My main modalities of treatment are EMDR and Lifespan Integration (LI), which are brain-changing therapy methods that focus on both the mind and the body.
As a Mental Health Counselor licensed in Oregon and Washington, I work with individuals who have been through trauma and abuse and are experiencing symptoms of PTSD, anxiety or depression, as well as substance abuse that are affecting their well-being and causing relationship issues. I believe that mind, body and spirit issues contribute to anxiety, depression, mood, addictions and relationship issues. My modalities of treatment include EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), LI (Lifespan Integration), DBT (Dialectical Behavior Therapy) and Motivational Interviewing.
(971) 606-4828 View (971) 606-4828
Photo of Charmaine Read, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Charmaine Read
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97212  (Online Only)
NOW Accepting new clients! I believe that a good fit and feeling confident with your therapist is the first step in reaching your therapeutic goals. Since 2011, I have worked with a wide array of clients and I have specific experience working with people who experience depression, anxiety, Bipolar, life transitions, stress, self-esteem challenges, women’s issues, trauma, and more. Since everyone is different, I utilize a variety of approaches to help people attain the life they desire and deserve. These include but are not limited to CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and solution focused therapy.
NOW Accepting new clients! I believe that a good fit and feeling confident with your therapist is the first step in reaching your therapeutic goals. Since 2011, I have worked with a wide array of clients and I have specific experience working with people who experience depression, anxiety, Bipolar, life transitions, stress, self-esteem challenges, women’s issues, trauma, and more. Since everyone is different, I utilize a variety of approaches to help people attain the life they desire and deserve. These include but are not limited to CBT, DBT, EMDR, mindfulness, and solution focused therapy.
(503) 782-5165 View (503) 782-5165
Photo of Zina Krivoruk, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Zina Krivoruk
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97209  (Online Only)
I offer Telehealth services in both Texas and Oregon, leveraging modalities such as EMDR, hypnotherapy, mindfulness practices, and insight work to foster profound self-awareness and insight.
As a therapist, I specialize in working with highly sensitive individuals, those eager to explore spirituality in depth, teachers, creative minds, and individuals striving to enhance their roles as partners in relationships. My core therapeutic approach is rooted in mindfulness, shaped by my intensive training in a Buddhist Monastery where I honed my meditation skills, and embraced prolonged periods of introspective silence. These experiences have equipped me with the tools to guide others towards a space of joyful self-discovery, facilitating the germination of authentic desires.
I offer Telehealth services in both Texas and Oregon, leveraging modalities such as EMDR, hypnotherapy, mindfulness practices, and insight work to foster profound self-awareness and insight.
As a therapist, I specialize in working with highly sensitive individuals, those eager to explore spirituality in depth, teachers, creative minds, and individuals striving to enhance their roles as partners in relationships. My core therapeutic approach is rooted in mindfulness, shaped by my intensive training in a Buddhist Monastery where I honed my meditation skills, and embraced prolonged periods of introspective silence. These experiences have equipped me with the tools to guide others towards a space of joyful self-discovery, facilitating the germination of authentic desires.
(503) 436-6398 View (503) 436-6398
Photo of Day Hancock-Murphy (They-He), Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in Portland, OR
Day Hancock-Murphy (They-He)
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97214
Waitlist for new clients
Current waitlist! Now offering EMDR! This life can be hard and the things we go through can have a profound impact on how we navigate life, no matter how big or small. My practice is especially attuned to the needs of individuals and communities who have been othered or exist on the periphery, whether due to their identity, relationship structure, or lifestyle choices. Neurodiversity, people of color, members of the LGBTQIA+, you are welcome here. From navigating non-monogamy and polyamory to exploring kink-positive dynamics and body-affirming philosophies, I offer a safe haven for those seeking understanding and validation.
Current waitlist! Now offering EMDR! This life can be hard and the things we go through can have a profound impact on how we navigate life, no matter how big or small. My practice is especially attuned to the needs of individuals and communities who have been othered or exist on the periphery, whether due to their identity, relationship structure, or lifestyle choices. Neurodiversity, people of color, members of the LGBTQIA+, you are welcome here. From navigating non-monogamy and polyamory to exploring kink-positive dynamics and body-affirming philosophies, I offer a safe haven for those seeking understanding and validation.
(971) 306-5515 View (971) 306-5515
Photo of Lauren Barthelemy, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Lauren Barthelemy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97215
I am a therapist providing telehealth services for clients anywhere in Oregon. My training and education has been focused on creative therapy to help cope with traumatic experiences. I have training in brief therapy and EMDR. This unique background provides the opportunity to reach out to many populations. I have worked with individual 3-87 years old with a wide range of concerns. I have opened my practice to the birthing community, offering services for perinatal and postpartum depression and anxiety. I am able to tailor treatment plans and methods to meet specific client needs through a creative approach.
I am a therapist providing telehealth services for clients anywhere in Oregon. My training and education has been focused on creative therapy to help cope with traumatic experiences. I have training in brief therapy and EMDR. This unique background provides the opportunity to reach out to many populations. I have worked with individual 3-87 years old with a wide range of concerns. I have opened my practice to the birthing community, offering services for perinatal and postpartum depression and anxiety. I am able to tailor treatment plans and methods to meet specific client needs through a creative approach.
(412) 357-2946 View (412) 357-2946
Photo of Alex Perez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Alex Perez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
Waitlist for new clients
I am also EMDR trained and utilized this approach with a variety of clients seeking trauma support.
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
I am also EMDR trained and utilized this approach with a variety of clients seeking trauma support.
I specialize in issues important to teenagers and young adults/families, including issues related to family dynamics, depression, anxiety, bipolar/schizophrenia, substance abuse concerns, transracial adoptions, grief, LGBTQ dynamics, racial identity, gender transitioning process, and abandonment trauma. My relational approach to therapy can help you gain awareness of your road blocks and provide you with the tools (skills/coping strategies) you have for your own growth.
(503) 433-8452 View (503) 433-8452
Photo of Diane C Steinbrecher, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Diane C Steinbrecher
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CHT, MSWAC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202  (Online Only)
Treatment Approaches include Hakomi Somatic Psychotherapy; Archetypal Pattern Analysis and Shadow Integration; Jungian Psychology; Dream Interpretation; Addictions Recovery; Spiritual Psychotherapy; Relationships, Attachment Issues; Mindfulness Meditation; Nondual Psychotherapy; Clinical Supervision; EMDR.
I trust that whatever appears in the mind, body, and emotions has its purpose and wants to be deeply heard, honored, understood, and embraced; that all the Psyche expresses are attempts toward our wholeness and realizing the jewel of our Essential Being. With this compassion and care, healing can unfold, patterns and beliefs transformed, and we can live our true potential and purpose, innate wisdom, and experience happiness, peace, and joy.
Treatment Approaches include Hakomi Somatic Psychotherapy; Archetypal Pattern Analysis and Shadow Integration; Jungian Psychology; Dream Interpretation; Addictions Recovery; Spiritual Psychotherapy; Relationships, Attachment Issues; Mindfulness Meditation; Nondual Psychotherapy; Clinical Supervision; EMDR.
I trust that whatever appears in the mind, body, and emotions has its purpose and wants to be deeply heard, honored, understood, and embraced; that all the Psyche expresses are attempts toward our wholeness and realizing the jewel of our Essential Being. With this compassion and care, healing can unfold, patterns and beliefs transformed, and we can live our true potential and purpose, innate wisdom, and experience happiness, peace, and joy.
(503) 388-5760 View (503) 388-5760
Photo of Jennifer Bimberg Counseling , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Jennifer Bimberg Counseling
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97211  (Online Only)
  I use a mix of Brainspotting, EMDR, TRE (Tension/Trauma Releasing Exercises), Somatic Experiencing, IFS, and mindfulness in my work.
Is anxiety, depression, or chronic stress preventing you from feeling present in your life? Have you done a lot of therapy but continue to find yourself feeling stuck, hopeless, or full of dread? Are you struggling with chronic health conditions that don't seem to respond to traditional interventions or can't be explained by conventional medicine? My time as a healing professional has reinforced the awareness that trauma and chronic stress are stored not just in our minds, but in our bodies and nervous systems as well. That is often why talk therapy is just not enough.
  I use a mix of Brainspotting, EMDR, TRE (Tension/Trauma Releasing Exercises), Somatic Experiencing, IFS, and mindfulness in my work.
Is anxiety, depression, or chronic stress preventing you from feeling present in your life? Have you done a lot of therapy but continue to find yourself feeling stuck, hopeless, or full of dread? Are you struggling with chronic health conditions that don't seem to respond to traditional interventions or can't be explained by conventional medicine? My time as a healing professional has reinforced the awareness that trauma and chronic stress are stored not just in our minds, but in our bodies and nervous systems as well. That is often why talk therapy is just not enough.
(503) 964-4999 View (503) 964-4999
Photo of Ellie Antico, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Ellie Antico
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
Waitlist for new clients
I integrate IFS, somatic modalities, EMDR, memory reconsolidation, boundary work, and contemplative mindfulness approaches to help my clients get to the root causes of their suffering.
I'm interested in you as whole person: mind, body and spirit. I know it takes courage to reveal ourselves so I hold space for all aspects of you with deep compassion. As a therapist I respect both your strength and vulnerability, offering a safe, nonjudgmental environment to express your truth, explore, and heal.
I integrate IFS, somatic modalities, EMDR, memory reconsolidation, boundary work, and contemplative mindfulness approaches to help my clients get to the root causes of their suffering.
I'm interested in you as whole person: mind, body and spirit. I know it takes courage to reveal ourselves so I hold space for all aspects of you with deep compassion. As a therapist I respect both your strength and vulnerability, offering a safe, nonjudgmental environment to express your truth, explore, and heal.
(833) 885-2803 View (833) 885-2803
Photo of Kara Busse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Kara Busse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206  (Online Only)
I enjoy using evidence-based approaches including internal family systems, EMDR, and mindfulness based CBT.
Reaching out for support is a strength and it brings me great joy to offer my support to you.Through a trauma informed lens I bring compassion, curiosity, and heartfelt acceptance to my work with teens, young adults and parents. Depression, anxiety, healing unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, grief, school issues and difficulty navigating life transitions are common themes clients bring in. Together we aim to identify concerns,develop healthy coping skills, build inner trust, and address and integrate trauma with care. Clients notice reduced stress, more agency, energy, improved self esteem and more fulfilling relationships.
I enjoy using evidence-based approaches including internal family systems, EMDR, and mindfulness based CBT.
Reaching out for support is a strength and it brings me great joy to offer my support to you.Through a trauma informed lens I bring compassion, curiosity, and heartfelt acceptance to my work with teens, young adults and parents. Depression, anxiety, healing unresolved trauma, relationship challenges, grief, school issues and difficulty navigating life transitions are common themes clients bring in. Together we aim to identify concerns,develop healthy coping skills, build inner trust, and address and integrate trauma with care. Clients notice reduced stress, more agency, energy, improved self esteem and more fulfilling relationships.
(971) 216-5904 View (971) 216-5904
Photo of Michelle D Roberts, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Michelle D Roberts
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214
My multi-dimensional approach is shaped by the latest research in neuroscience and relies on trauma-focused treatment specialties, including EMDR and Somatic Approaches, Attachment Therapy, DBT and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
I work with clients whose PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions were caused by relational trauma. This kind of trauma occurs when the actions of another violate the trust on which a relationship was built. The experience of profound and unexpected betrayal (as children or adults) can be deeply traumatic and cause lasting changes in the areas of the brain responsible for regulating emotion, thought, and memory.
My multi-dimensional approach is shaped by the latest research in neuroscience and relies on trauma-focused treatment specialties, including EMDR and Somatic Approaches, Attachment Therapy, DBT and Narcissistic Abuse Recovery.
I work with clients whose PTSD, anxiety, depression, and addictions were caused by relational trauma. This kind of trauma occurs when the actions of another violate the trust on which a relationship was built. The experience of profound and unexpected betrayal (as children or adults) can be deeply traumatic and cause lasting changes in the areas of the brain responsible for regulating emotion, thought, and memory.
(503) 486-4019 View (503) 486-4019
Photo of Melisa De Seguirant, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Melisa De Seguirant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
In addition to talk therapy I facilitate therapeutic work using EMDR, parts work and guided meditation.
Currently OPEN to new clients! Calling all creative, LGBTQIA+, ethically non-monogamous, neurodivergent, kinky people and other normative culture misfits! If you are interested in disrupting programmed patterns, repairing attachment wounding, integrating trauma and stepping into a more authentic, expansive way of being, let’s talk.
In addition to talk therapy I facilitate therapeutic work using EMDR, parts work and guided meditation.
Currently OPEN to new clients! Calling all creative, LGBTQIA+, ethically non-monogamous, neurodivergent, kinky people and other normative culture misfits! If you are interested in disrupting programmed patterns, repairing attachment wounding, integrating trauma and stepping into a more authentic, expansive way of being, let’s talk.
(503) 749-9776 View (503) 749-9776
Photo of Hanna Jordan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Hanna Jordan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97239  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Including: EMDR, Biofeedback (Heartmath), mindfulness based stress management, EFT, somatic work, attachment, creative expression, herbal educational consultations and others.
If you're looking for a safe and supportive place to explore possibilities for change, growth, and healing in your life or in a relationship, I can help. Whether you face increasingly stressful life circumstances - feel disconnected from work, family, friends, life dreams - stuck in self-defeating patterns or challenging relationship dynamics - or struggling with self-esteem, chronic pain, or residual trauma - this very moment can be a turning point in a new direction. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or to talk about therapy, counseling, or herbal consultations.
Including: EMDR, Biofeedback (Heartmath), mindfulness based stress management, EFT, somatic work, attachment, creative expression, herbal educational consultations and others.
If you're looking for a safe and supportive place to explore possibilities for change, growth, and healing in your life or in a relationship, I can help. Whether you face increasingly stressful life circumstances - feel disconnected from work, family, friends, life dreams - stuck in self-defeating patterns or challenging relationship dynamics - or struggling with self-esteem, chronic pain, or residual trauma - this very moment can be a turning point in a new direction. Please feel free to contact me with any questions, or to talk about therapy, counseling, or herbal consultations.
(503) 567-2938 View (503) 567-2938
Photo of Maren Corbly, Licensed Professional Counselor in Portland, OR
Maren Corbly
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97202
I have specialized training and personal experience in EMDR (look into it, it's pretty fascinating!), grief work, and mindfulness/meditation support.
I love supporting teens, young adults, and adults as they work to accept themselves, trust their own intuition, and get "unstuck" from past experiences and big losses.
I have specialized training and personal experience in EMDR (look into it, it's pretty fascinating!), grief work, and mindfulness/meditation support.
I love supporting teens, young adults, and adults as they work to accept themselves, trust their own intuition, and get "unstuck" from past experiences and big losses.
(503) 743-7268 View (503) 743-7268
Photo of Sedona Karlin, Marriage & Family Therapist in Portland, OR
Sedona Karlin
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, RPT-S, PMH-C
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97219
Waitlist for new clients
I love working with new mothers as they navigate identity, relationships, perinatal mood disorders, marital changes, and healing birth trauma through EMDR.
Our lives are not linear, we go through so many big transitions that we sometimes find ourselves feeling a bit adrift. I specialize in working with new mothers navigating the perinatal phase of mental health, which can often throw a curveball we weren’t expecting. There’s no such thing as too much support postpartum, and I’m happy to be part of your team. I care deeply about my clients and want you to feel seen, heard, and understood. If you have found your way to me, I am honored to support you as you navigate your way through the challenges you’re currently facing.
I love working with new mothers as they navigate identity, relationships, perinatal mood disorders, marital changes, and healing birth trauma through EMDR.
Our lives are not linear, we go through so many big transitions that we sometimes find ourselves feeling a bit adrift. I specialize in working with new mothers navigating the perinatal phase of mental health, which can often throw a curveball we weren’t expecting. There’s no such thing as too much support postpartum, and I’m happy to be part of your team. I care deeply about my clients and want you to feel seen, heard, and understood. If you have found your way to me, I am honored to support you as you navigate your way through the challenges you’re currently facing.
(971) 256-6221 View (971) 256-6221
Photo of Sarah Chiartas, Professional Counselor Associate in Portland, OR
Sarah Chiartas
Professional Counselor Associate
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97232
To best suit your specific needs, I incorporate various techniques that included mindfulness, somatic movement, EMDR, among others.
I work with individuals and families of all backgrounds, facing various life challenges. I hope to facilitate an inclusive, non-judgmental, and nurturing space that allows you to feel heard and empowered to move toward your goals.
To best suit your specific needs, I incorporate various techniques that included mindfulness, somatic movement, EMDR, among others.
I work with individuals and families of all backgrounds, facing various life challenges. I hope to facilitate an inclusive, non-judgmental, and nurturing space that allows you to feel heard and empowered to move toward your goals.
(971) 253-7433 View (971) 253-7433
Photo of Catherine Blanche Rose, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Portland, OR
Catherine Blanche Rose
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, CHT, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Portland, OR 97214  (Online Only)
All sessions are currently online currently. With so many adjustments it is unclear what my future practice will be in terms of online/in-person. Certified in one of today's most effective integrative counseling methods, Hakomi Therapy and EMDR, I work with you to heal from past experiences. I provide caring, deep counseling for individuals. We work with patterns and core beliefs in a way that opens them up or allows them to fall away. One client described my technique as "the most direct route to problems she had ever seen." Together we'll process grief and heavy realities to generate possibility and fullness in your life.
All sessions are currently online currently. With so many adjustments it is unclear what my future practice will be in terms of online/in-person. Certified in one of today's most effective integrative counseling methods, Hakomi Therapy and EMDR, I work with you to heal from past experiences. I provide caring, deep counseling for individuals. We work with patterns and core beliefs in a way that opens them up or allows them to fall away. One client described my technique as "the most direct route to problems she had ever seen." Together we'll process grief and heavy realities to generate possibility and fullness in your life.
(971) 224-7348 View (971) 224-7348
Photo of Timothy A Connor, Psychologist in Portland, OR
Timothy A Connor
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Portland, OR 97206
I am a certified practitioner of Coherence Therapy, and I use other experiential methods in my work, including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and EMDR.
I work with individuals and couples who find themselves trapped in patterns of emotion and behavior that keep them from moving forward in their lives and relationships. I don't think of problems as illnesses, but as learned ways of navigating the world that no longer work; almost every problem started out as a solution. Problems are solved by deeply confronting and changing the emotional learnings that make them seem inevitable. Change comes when people are able to unlearn old patterns and replace them with new ones. Transformative change uses the mind’s natural capacity to adapt and heal.
I am a certified practitioner of Coherence Therapy, and I use other experiential methods in my work, including Emotion-Focused Therapy, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and EMDR.
I work with individuals and couples who find themselves trapped in patterns of emotion and behavior that keep them from moving forward in their lives and relationships. I don't think of problems as illnesses, but as learned ways of navigating the world that no longer work; almost every problem started out as a solution. Problems are solved by deeply confronting and changing the emotional learnings that make them seem inevitable. Change comes when people are able to unlearn old patterns and replace them with new ones. Transformative change uses the mind’s natural capacity to adapt and heal.
(503) 850-0046 View (503) 850-0046
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.