Therapists in San Jose, CA

Photo of Erick Santos, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Erick Santos
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
I specialize in trauma whether it is complex trauma or intergenerational trauma using individualistic approaches to meet your needs through TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR therapy.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
I specialize in trauma whether it is complex trauma or intergenerational trauma using individualistic approaches to meet your needs through TF-CBT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR therapy.
Has trauma, anxiety, or depression interfered with the potential to become the best version of yourself? We often feel defined by traumatic or emotionally difficult experiences then often leave us feeling stuck in place rather than moving forward towards our goals. I’m here to provide a safe, affirming space for you to develop an understanding of yourself to overcome past experiences or fears that define you. Our work together will be met with unconditional acceptance, creative approaches, and the utmost compassion.
(408) 351-0417 View (408) 351-0417
Photo of Nancy Nguyen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Nancy Nguyen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PPSC, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95124  (Online Only)
I am a trauma-informed clinician with IFS and EMDR certification.
You may be feeling stuck, hopeless, defeated. You may be stuck in a cycle of depression and/or anxiety. You may be questioning your purpose and the path you've been on. You may be struggling with a life transition or a new role. I believe each individual and circumstance is unique, and as such, take great care in my assessments to get to know you. As a trauma therapist, I am sensitive to what you've been through and where you want to go. Along the journey we will discover marked paths and reveal new insights.
I am a trauma-informed clinician with IFS and EMDR certification.
You may be feeling stuck, hopeless, defeated. You may be stuck in a cycle of depression and/or anxiety. You may be questioning your purpose and the path you've been on. You may be struggling with a life transition or a new role. I believe each individual and circumstance is unique, and as such, take great care in my assessments to get to know you. As a trauma therapist, I am sensitive to what you've been through and where you want to go. Along the journey we will discover marked paths and reveal new insights.
(831) 322-0412 View (831) 322-0412
Photo of Susana Romero, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Susana Romero
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
If you made it to my profile, you are ready to begin a new journey to understand yourself better. My approach is tailored to each individual and guided by their pace. My area of focus is healing relational complex trauma and attachment repair. I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained. I invite you to engage in curiosity and exploration. I look forward to meeting you!
If you made it to my profile, you are ready to begin a new journey to understand yourself better. My approach is tailored to each individual and guided by their pace. My area of focus is healing relational complex trauma and attachment repair. I am EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) trained. I invite you to engage in curiosity and exploration. I look forward to meeting you!
(408) 443-2532 View (408) 443-2532
Photo of Dr. Invia A. Betjoseph, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Dr. Invia A. Betjoseph
Marriage & Family Therapist, PsyD, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95124  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, trained in EMDR specializing in sex addictions, couples therapy and trauma.
Do you find yourself making excuses for your secret, compulsive sexual behaviors, thinking that you can stop at any time? You may think that watching porn is not a big deal, because "Everybody does it." The truth is you have been saying, "This is the last time" for years now, and if you are in a committed relationship, then your partner is feeling angry, betrayed and confused. Problematic sexual behaviors can leave you feeling shame and guilt fraught with fear and anxiety. For 15 years, by creating a safe and confidential environment, using specific tools, I have helped distressed people move past their damaging choices and heal.
I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Sex Addiction Therapist, trained in EMDR specializing in sex addictions, couples therapy and trauma.
Do you find yourself making excuses for your secret, compulsive sexual behaviors, thinking that you can stop at any time? You may think that watching porn is not a big deal, because "Everybody does it." The truth is you have been saying, "This is the last time" for years now, and if you are in a committed relationship, then your partner is feeling angry, betrayed and confused. Problematic sexual behaviors can leave you feeling shame and guilt fraught with fear and anxiety. For 15 years, by creating a safe and confidential environment, using specific tools, I have helped distressed people move past their damaging choices and heal.
(408) 809-1063 View (408) 809-1063
Photo of Aurianne J Dorsay, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Aurianne J Dorsay
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
I use a variety of modalities, including talk therapy, EMDR, as well as sand tray.
Adults, children and couples seek my psychotherapy services for a variety of reasons including feeling stuck, anxious, or sad. My clients have reported that they know themselves more deeply and that they experience more fulfilling and meaningful lives through our work together.
I use a variety of modalities, including talk therapy, EMDR, as well as sand tray.
Adults, children and couples seek my psychotherapy services for a variety of reasons including feeling stuck, anxious, or sad. My clients have reported that they know themselves more deeply and that they experience more fulfilling and meaningful lives through our work together.
(408) 641-3073 View (408) 641-3073
Photo of Valentina Mornard, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Valentina Mornard
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95126  (Online Only)
I am a Certified in EMDR and as an Intuitive Eating Counselor, and I use Health at Every Size® principles to guide my work with food and body issues.
It takes courage to reach out for support. Often people reach out when their usual strategies to manage their life fail, and they feel stuck. Are you feeling like you can't think or talk your way out of your unhappiness? The role of the therapist is as a facilitator or guide to help you identify the patterns that are no longer working for you, and develop strategies to heal and change. I will work with you to develop a plan in therapy that meets your individual needs and goals. My style is to give a combination of compassion, honest feedback, non-judgment, humor, and warmth.
I am a Certified in EMDR and as an Intuitive Eating Counselor, and I use Health at Every Size® principles to guide my work with food and body issues.
It takes courage to reach out for support. Often people reach out when their usual strategies to manage their life fail, and they feel stuck. Are you feeling like you can't think or talk your way out of your unhappiness? The role of the therapist is as a facilitator or guide to help you identify the patterns that are no longer working for you, and develop strategies to heal and change. I will work with you to develop a plan in therapy that meets your individual needs and goals. My style is to give a combination of compassion, honest feedback, non-judgment, humor, and warmth.
(510) 345-0447 View (510) 345-0447
Photo of Holly Hopkins Shah, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Holly Hopkins Shah
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128
I also work using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with clients who have experienced trauma for rapid cessation of symptoms.
Thank you for visiting my profile. You're looking for a therapist because either you or a loved one is in some distress. I can help. I have experience in treating many issues one faces that produces some distress from relationship problems, trauma or family difficulties to depression, anxiety and grief.
I also work using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) with clients who have experienced trauma for rapid cessation of symptoms.
Thank you for visiting my profile. You're looking for a therapist because either you or a loved one is in some distress. I can help. I have experience in treating many issues one faces that produces some distress from relationship problems, trauma or family difficulties to depression, anxiety and grief.
(408) 628-1618 View (408) 628-1618
Photo of Kathleen Bishop, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Kathleen Bishop
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128  (Online Only)
I provide online sessions. Do you struggle with chronic dieting and negative body image? It is my passion to support clients who want to break free from these negative patterns. It is possible to find relief. I am a certified in both Intuitive Eating Counseling and EMDR. I use Health At Every Size® principles to guide my practice when working with clients with food and body image issues. I also provide support for substance use disorders, depression, anxiety and phase of life issues (like mid-life career changes and retirement). Follow me on Instagram: body_peace_liberation
I provide online sessions. Do you struggle with chronic dieting and negative body image? It is my passion to support clients who want to break free from these negative patterns. It is possible to find relief. I am a certified in both Intuitive Eating Counseling and EMDR. I use Health At Every Size® principles to guide my practice when working with clients with food and body image issues. I also provide support for substance use disorders, depression, anxiety and phase of life issues (like mid-life career changes and retirement). Follow me on Instagram: body_peace_liberation
(408) 869-1402 View (408) 869-1402
Photo of Diane Ngoc Nguyen, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Diane Ngoc Nguyen
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95110
EMDR an option.
Inexplicable anger, unshakable depression, unrelenting anxiety... This is the fallout of unmet needs like care, attention, respect, and presence happening now and probably had happened for significant lengths of time in our childhoods. As I work with people on these chronic and traumatic experiences, they have shown me how these past traumas can be resolved; that you too can get rid of distorted negative beliefs about yourself; that everyone can improve the quality and selection of their relationships; and when we connect to our bodies and minds with wisdom and tenderness, we become sovereign and healed.
EMDR an option.
Inexplicable anger, unshakable depression, unrelenting anxiety... This is the fallout of unmet needs like care, attention, respect, and presence happening now and probably had happened for significant lengths of time in our childhoods. As I work with people on these chronic and traumatic experiences, they have shown me how these past traumas can be resolved; that you too can get rid of distorted negative beliefs about yourself; that everyone can improve the quality and selection of their relationships; and when we connect to our bodies and minds with wisdom and tenderness, we become sovereign and healed.
(408) 412-7131 View (408) 412-7131
Photo of Elizabeth Case, Counselor in San Jose, CA
Elizabeth Case
Counselor, LPCC, EdM, MA, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
I resource over 15 years of experience as a Licensed Counselor to inform my work, using evidence-based practices - Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Gottman Couples Therapy.
You are a woman with tremendous strength. You manage the lives of others and keep track of so much. And though there can be moments of great reward, you are tired and notice that in caring for others, some of the most important parts of YOU feel lost. You may not feel as confident or positive as you once did. You may notice that relationships are strained. Work is suffering. You feel disconnected. It is time to access resources to help lift you back onto your feet so that you can reconnect with yourself and others.
I resource over 15 years of experience as a Licensed Counselor to inform my work, using evidence-based practices - Psychodynamic Psychotherapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and Gottman Couples Therapy.
You are a woman with tremendous strength. You manage the lives of others and keep track of so much. And though there can be moments of great reward, you are tired and notice that in caring for others, some of the most important parts of YOU feel lost. You may not feel as confident or positive as you once did. You may notice that relationships are strained. Work is suffering. You feel disconnected. It is time to access resources to help lift you back onto your feet so that you can reconnect with yourself and others.
(650) 613-4868 View (650) 613-4868
Photo of Hazzel Angulo, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Jose, CA
Hazzel Angulo
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
I am trained in EMDR therapy, which is designed to reduce the emotional intensity attached to the disturbing memories through the use of eye movements or tapping, resulting in a reduction of symptomology.
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
I am trained in EMDR therapy, which is designed to reduce the emotional intensity attached to the disturbing memories through the use of eye movements or tapping, resulting in a reduction of symptomology.
Trauma, anxiety, and addiction can make you feel stuck. The most important step towards healing is to address the unresolved emotion inside you. Healing requires feelings. Acceptance slowly dissolves pain. When we function from the fear and scarring of our trauma, the cycles continue until we learn how to transmute that energy into love. I apply a Holistic approach that integrates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual forms of well-being, addressing the “whole” self. Through a holistic framework tailored to your unique needs, the goal is to support you develop a deeper understanding of the self on all these levels.
(408) 351-0990 View (408) 351-0990
Photo of Shannon Boe, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Jose, CA
Shannon Boe
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95126
I am trained in EMDR, which is a powerful tool for processing trauma and a unique offering for the teen and young adult population (as many EMDR providers only support adults).
Carl Jung said "The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you really are" and this is something I am passionate about: helping my clients uncover who they truly are and live the lives that they deserve. I primarily work with children, teens and young adults and enjoy creating unique interventions based on upon their interests and goals. Using talk, art and play I help clients explore their experiences with anxiety, depression, school challenges, and trauma. Having previously worked in school settings I have witnessed first hand how important mental health counseling is for children, teens and young adults.
I am trained in EMDR, which is a powerful tool for processing trauma and a unique offering for the teen and young adult population (as many EMDR providers only support adults).
Carl Jung said "The privilege of a lifetime is to become who you really are" and this is something I am passionate about: helping my clients uncover who they truly are and live the lives that they deserve. I primarily work with children, teens and young adults and enjoy creating unique interventions based on upon their interests and goals. Using talk, art and play I help clients explore their experiences with anxiety, depression, school challenges, and trauma. Having previously worked in school settings I have witnessed first hand how important mental health counseling is for children, teens and young adults.
(408) 637-4935 View (408) 637-4935
Photo of Dorise Hebenstreit, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate in San Jose, CA
Dorise Hebenstreit
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
I specialize in EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is an evidence-based treatment approach shown to help overcome trauma-related difficulties.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
I specialize in EMDR and Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which is an evidence-based treatment approach shown to help overcome trauma-related difficulties.
My focus is to help individuals and families heal from anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationship/family issues. As the therapeutic area of concern is introduced, we can begin to work together in developing empowerment of self as we set up together healthy and achievable goals. I aim to establish include compassion, good communication and trust. In our relationship then I will work alongside you to develop your own coping tools. My approach is a person-centered (positive type) direction to further your strengths and resilience which is tailored towards your specific goals and needs.
(408) 459-6634 View (408) 459-6634
Photo of Harmonie Stone, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Harmonie Stone
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95125
Harmonie holds certifications in EMDR, Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises®, Nutrition, and is an affiliate of Integrated Listening Systems, a program to heal mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Sensory Processing in children and adults.
Harmonie Stone has been a student of the developmental and psychological wellness fields for over 9 years. She has a Bachelors of Science in Child and Adolescent Development and a Masters Degree in Psychology. Her work as a counselor has lead her to take a special interest in chronic stress and trauma and their influence on the nervous system's ability to communicate with the mind and body. Her desire is to take a more whole person approach in healing from chronic stress and trauma.
Harmonie holds certifications in EMDR, Tension and Trauma Releasing Exercises®, Nutrition, and is an affiliate of Integrated Listening Systems, a program to heal mild Traumatic Brain Injury and Sensory Processing in children and adults.
Harmonie Stone has been a student of the developmental and psychological wellness fields for over 9 years. She has a Bachelors of Science in Child and Adolescent Development and a Masters Degree in Psychology. Her work as a counselor has lead her to take a special interest in chronic stress and trauma and their influence on the nervous system's ability to communicate with the mind and body. Her desire is to take a more whole person approach in healing from chronic stress and trauma.
(669) 271-7241 View (669) 271-7241
Photo of Kate Young, Psychologist in San Jose, CA
Kate Young
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95128
My specialities are trauma, anxiety, work stress, panic, driving and flying fears, dysfunctional family of origin issues, and relationship conflicts. My main approaches are Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. I am practical and outcome oriented. EMDR and CBT work well in short term therapy approach. Frequently therapy lasts only 3-6 months depending on the issues to be addressed.
My specialities are trauma, anxiety, work stress, panic, driving and flying fears, dysfunctional family of origin issues, and relationship conflicts. My main approaches are Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness. I am practical and outcome oriented. EMDR and CBT work well in short term therapy approach. Frequently therapy lasts only 3-6 months depending on the issues to be addressed.
(408) 883-4634 View (408) 883-4634
Photo of Elizabeth Mueller, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Elizabeth Mueller
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I also provide EMDR.
Seeking therapy can be a challenging step, because opening up about intimate issues to a stranger is both terrifying, brave, and can leave you feeling vulnerable. That's why it's important to find somebody with whom you feel comfortable. It is my priority to make you feel at ease, because reaching your goal is more difficult when this is not at the foundation of the therapeutic experience. This approach has enabled me to work with a wide array of teens, adults, couples, and families.
I also provide EMDR.
Seeking therapy can be a challenging step, because opening up about intimate issues to a stranger is both terrifying, brave, and can leave you feeling vulnerable. That's why it's important to find somebody with whom you feel comfortable. It is my priority to make you feel at ease, because reaching your goal is more difficult when this is not at the foundation of the therapeutic experience. This approach has enabled me to work with a wide array of teens, adults, couples, and families.
(831) 246-8278 View (831) 246-8278
Photo of Lynn Kitajima, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Lynn Kitajima
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Jose, CA 95110  (Online Only)
It may not feel like it right now, but change is possible. Through therapy, you can become aware of the unconscious decisions you are making each day that are unknowingly shaping your life. You may find that the unhelpful decisions all center around patterns meant to keep you safe. Together, we can work on increasing your sense of security and recognizing which patterns are no longer working. I am trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Sensorimotor Therapy. These modalities can aid you in going deeper and effectively processing the patterns and traumas that are keeping you stuck.
It may not feel like it right now, but change is possible. Through therapy, you can become aware of the unconscious decisions you are making each day that are unknowingly shaping your life. You may find that the unhelpful decisions all center around patterns meant to keep you safe. Together, we can work on increasing your sense of security and recognizing which patterns are no longer working. I am trained in EMDR, Internal Family Systems Therapy, and Sensorimotor Therapy. These modalities can aid you in going deeper and effectively processing the patterns and traumas that are keeping you stuck.
(650) 297-8046 View (650) 297-8046
Photo of Tania Choi Psychotherapy, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Tania Choi Psychotherapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MEd
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
I specialize in EMDR and am trained to work with trauma, abuse, PTSD as well addictions and compulsions.
I'm not in the business of instigating change. I am in the delicate and complex work of empowering it. Because I believe you have the wisdom to bring about change. Because change is your work and your choice; my role is to set the stage, empty it, illuminate what stands in the way and explore with you the possibilities for change. Ultimately you decide.The fact that you're here already ensures it. My job is to notice your process, reflect and honor it. In this space, I have seen amazing change happen.
I specialize in EMDR and am trained to work with trauma, abuse, PTSD as well addictions and compulsions.
I'm not in the business of instigating change. I am in the delicate and complex work of empowering it. Because I believe you have the wisdom to bring about change. Because change is your work and your choice; my role is to set the stage, empty it, illuminate what stands in the way and explore with you the possibilities for change. Ultimately you decide.The fact that you're here already ensures it. My job is to notice your process, reflect and honor it. In this space, I have seen amazing change happen.
(408) 212-0552 View (408) 212-0552
Photo of Vani Hariharan, Marriage & Family Therapist in San Jose, CA
Vani Hariharan
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95117
I use IFS, EMDR, structural family therapy, attachment, EFT, play therapy, expressive art therapy modalities.
I believe that people are resilient and resourceful, capable of overcoming difficulties. Sometimes we get entangled in personal and relational patterns that can overwhelm our resources. I help clients identify these problematic patterns and empower them to break free from patterns that do not serve them well. I focus on my client's interpersonal relationships and relationships with larger social systems. I have experience working with children, teens, families, and couples on several issues, including family and couple distress, trauma, and various presentations of anxiety and depression through a systemic and attachment-based lens.
I use IFS, EMDR, structural family therapy, attachment, EFT, play therapy, expressive art therapy modalities.
I believe that people are resilient and resourceful, capable of overcoming difficulties. Sometimes we get entangled in personal and relational patterns that can overwhelm our resources. I help clients identify these problematic patterns and empower them to break free from patterns that do not serve them well. I focus on my client's interpersonal relationships and relationships with larger social systems. I have experience working with children, teens, families, and couples on several issues, including family and couple distress, trauma, and various presentations of anxiety and depression through a systemic and attachment-based lens.
(650) 374-0238 View (650) 374-0238
Photo of Nicole Bennett, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in San Jose, CA
Nicole Bennett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Jose, CA 95128
If you are struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or invisible wounds, therapy can help. I specialize in addressing these areas with EMDR. Together we can work toward finding more peace in your inner world to increase your capacity to relax, connect, and enjoy yourself and your life. If you are seeking therapy for your child or teen struggling with their emotions or self esteem, I can work with them to navigate their feelings in a healthy way and collaborate with you on how you can support your child with their unique needs.
If you are struggling with anxiety, low self-worth, or invisible wounds, therapy can help. I specialize in addressing these areas with EMDR. Together we can work toward finding more peace in your inner world to increase your capacity to relax, connect, and enjoy yourself and your life. If you are seeking therapy for your child or teen struggling with their emotions or self esteem, I can work with them to navigate their feelings in a healthy way and collaborate with you on how you can support your child with their unique needs.
(408) 692-6792 View (408) 692-6792
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.