There are no results for therapists in Soquel

Check out therapists located nearby or offering teletherapy in California below.

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Dr. Jennifer Kennelly, Psychologist in Soquel, CA
Dr. Jennifer Kennelly
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Scotts Valley, CA 95066  (Online Only)
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been serving the needs of children, adolescents, and adults for over 20 years. I grew up in the Santa Cruz area and I am thrilled to be serving our beautiful community. I provide both therapy and psychological testing to children and adults in order to help my patients grow into their full potential. Oftentimes, problems that seem insurmountable are due to the ways in which we perceive them. Feeling as though we lack the power to change keep us locked in old, unproductive patterns. Understanding what is holding you back is often the key to growth, change, and greater life satisfaction.
I am a licensed clinical psychologist and have been serving the needs of children, adolescents, and adults for over 20 years. I grew up in the Santa Cruz area and I am thrilled to be serving our beautiful community. I provide both therapy and psychological testing to children and adults in order to help my patients grow into their full potential. Oftentimes, problems that seem insurmountable are due to the ways in which we perceive them. Feeling as though we lack the power to change keep us locked in old, unproductive patterns. Understanding what is holding you back is often the key to growth, change, and greater life satisfaction.
(831) 216-3062 View (831) 216-3062
Photo of Shelley Dukes, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Shelley Dukes
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Individuals come to me for a variety of problems; most often to improve the quality of their life and get relief from nagging self-doubt, anxiety, depression and emotional distress due to life changes and loss. They come to me for clarity, direction and tools to move beyond old patterns and take action to achieve a greater sense of freedom, fulfillment and authenticity.
Individuals come to me for a variety of problems; most often to improve the quality of their life and get relief from nagging self-doubt, anxiety, depression and emotional distress due to life changes and loss. They come to me for clarity, direction and tools to move beyond old patterns and take action to achieve a greater sense of freedom, fulfillment and authenticity.
(530) 475-6712 View (530) 475-6712
Photo of Bill Falzett, Psychologist in Soquel, CA
Bill Falzett
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Capitola, CA 95010
Individual psychotherapy emphasizing solutions to specific behaviors and desired outcomes. What do you want to fix, change, improve, and get well of? I have been a psychotherapist since 1968. I take regular Medicare and secondaries or Cash.(not Advantage plans)
Individual psychotherapy emphasizing solutions to specific behaviors and desired outcomes. What do you want to fix, change, improve, and get well of? I have been a psychotherapist since 1968. I take regular Medicare and secondaries or Cash.(not Advantage plans)
(831) 709-9675 View (831) 709-9675
Photo of Jenna E Wolfson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Jenna E Wolfson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, C-PAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Felton, CA 95018
The work you and I will do together is focused on your goals and needs and capitalizes on your strengths. My assessment process takes into account the biological, psychological, social, emotional, spiritual, and cultural aspects of your life. Once that assessment is completed, you and I will explore the issues and needs that you are trying to manage by utilizing a "motivational interviewing" approach. We then work to discover the maladaptive behaviors and coping mechanisms; and explore healthy, productive, and strengths-based strategies for getting these needs met.
The work you and I will do together is focused on your goals and needs and capitalizes on your strengths. My assessment process takes into account the biological, psychological, social, emotional, spiritual, and cultural aspects of your life. Once that assessment is completed, you and I will explore the issues and needs that you are trying to manage by utilizing a "motivational interviewing" approach. We then work to discover the maladaptive behaviors and coping mechanisms; and explore healthy, productive, and strengths-based strategies for getting these needs met.
(805) 429-6264 View (805) 429-6264
Photo of The Mindful Lemon, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
The Mindful Lemon
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Santa Cruz, CA 95062  (Online Only)
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
Our mission is to provide quality online mental health and substance abuse services while breaking down the barriers of traditional, office based therapy. Traditional mental health and substance abuse treatment tends to focus on what makes you sick, what you are lacking but at The Mindful Lemon, our clinicians let you sit in the driver’s seat, focusing on your strengths and assets to help you become the best version of you! This can be via traditional talk therapy, medication management, mindfulness techniques, an emphasis on health, wellness and fitness or any combination of the above.
(831) 276-0279 View (831) 276-0279
Photo of Lisa Blevins, Psychologist in Soquel, CA
Lisa Blevins
Psychologist, PhD, CHT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Santa Cruz, CA 95060
Not accepting new clients
I look forward to meeting you and discovering how we can work together to improve your experience of life! I see therapy as one way to prioritize yourself, try something different, and take a risk to address patterns that have not been working for you. My belief is that when you find someone with whom you can trust and who sincerely cares about you, you can then take the steps necessary to create the life you really want. I hope to be that person for you.
I look forward to meeting you and discovering how we can work together to improve your experience of life! I see therapy as one way to prioritize yourself, try something different, and take a risk to address patterns that have not been working for you. My belief is that when you find someone with whom you can trust and who sincerely cares about you, you can then take the steps necessary to create the life you really want. I hope to be that person for you.
(408) 675-0943 View (408) 675-0943

Online Therapists

Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Sunnyvale, CA 94086
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-1415 View (562) 268-1415
Photo of Vicki Young, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Vicki Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Berkeley, CA 94705
I interweave practical & creative approaches including; EMDR, neuroscience, Jungian, family systems, & Sensorimotor.
Welcome! I specialize in relationships, work and parenting. I’m warm, creative, supportive & smart. I like to help people in life transitions. These are hard times. If you’re feeling alone, overwhelmed, upset or worried about the future, let me help. We collaborate to address the hard things in your life, discover your unique abilities & strengths & create a path toward your dreams and goals. I am a licensed psychotherapist with 30 + years’ experience working with people from age 2 to 100. I create space where you can feel comfortable expressing feelings & exploring difficult issues. We transform you’re goals into do-able steps.
I interweave practical & creative approaches including; EMDR, neuroscience, Jungian, family systems, & Sensorimotor.
Welcome! I specialize in relationships, work and parenting. I’m warm, creative, supportive & smart. I like to help people in life transitions. These are hard times. If you’re feeling alone, overwhelmed, upset or worried about the future, let me help. We collaborate to address the hard things in your life, discover your unique abilities & strengths & create a path toward your dreams and goals. I am a licensed psychotherapist with 30 + years’ experience working with people from age 2 to 100. I create space where you can feel comfortable expressing feelings & exploring difficult issues. We transform you’re goals into do-able steps.
(510) 380-7909 View (510) 380-7909
Photo of Audrey N Reyes, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Audrey N Reyes
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, RYT200
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Vacaville, CA 95688  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained in EMDR and can help process trauma, anxiety, depression and so much more.
Hi, I am Audrey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a RYT200 yoga teacher. I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, couples and families; and I have been an Air Force wife for 23 years and I understand the dynamics of being a military family. In my work, I have seen many people struggle to manage their emotions, stressors and work through problems they face on a daily basis. I recognize and understand the connection of our health is through balancing our mind and body. Reaching out for help is hard to do and I understand therapy is not for everyone. So I am glad you are here, reaching out.
I am also trained in EMDR and can help process trauma, anxiety, depression and so much more.
Hi, I am Audrey and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and a RYT200 yoga teacher. I enjoy working with children, teens, adults, couples and families; and I have been an Air Force wife for 23 years and I understand the dynamics of being a military family. In my work, I have seen many people struggle to manage their emotions, stressors and work through problems they face on a daily basis. I recognize and understand the connection of our health is through balancing our mind and body. Reaching out for help is hard to do and I understand therapy is not for everyone. So I am glad you are here, reaching out.
(707) 356-9718 View (707) 356-9718
Photo of Laura M Ostrow, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Laura M Ostrow
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Oakland, CA 94606  (Online Only)
Hello! I am currently offering trauma informed and EMDR therapy. I work primarily with high functioning women who are struggling with depression, anxiety, or PTSD and are ready to get to the root of it all and feel better. Whether you are challenged by intimacy issues, feeling unfulfilled at work or school, or are just tired of being controlled by emotions like anger or grief, emotions can be hard to manage. Lasting change happens within the context of a safe relationship, and regardless of your attachment style or history, I can help you create the changes you want to see in your life.
Hello! I am currently offering trauma informed and EMDR therapy. I work primarily with high functioning women who are struggling with depression, anxiety, or PTSD and are ready to get to the root of it all and feel better. Whether you are challenged by intimacy issues, feeling unfulfilled at work or school, or are just tired of being controlled by emotions like anger or grief, emotions can be hard to manage. Lasting change happens within the context of a safe relationship, and regardless of your attachment style or history, I can help you create the changes you want to see in your life.
(510) 343-7169 View (510) 343-7169
Photo of EMDR Psychotherapy and Geriatric Mental Health , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
EMDR Psychotherapy and Geriatric Mental Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94611  (Online Only)
Are you bothered by an upsetting event (s) that you cannot get out of your mind? Do you know something is holding you back, perhaps from your past, but you can't seem to shake it? Have you tried traditional talk therapy, but your past still has a grip on you? Exciting breakthroughs have been advanced in our understanding of how our brains mange memories. The latest research shows that non-traditional therapies like EMDR, can more quickly & deeply help us heal and recover from traumatic events and live more satisfying lives.
Are you bothered by an upsetting event (s) that you cannot get out of your mind? Do you know something is holding you back, perhaps from your past, but you can't seem to shake it? Have you tried traditional talk therapy, but your past still has a grip on you? Exciting breakthroughs have been advanced in our understanding of how our brains mange memories. The latest research shows that non-traditional therapies like EMDR, can more quickly & deeply help us heal and recover from traumatic events and live more satisfying lives.
(510) 545-9572 View (510) 545-9572
Photo of Patricia Ann LaCocque, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Patricia Ann LaCocque
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94610  (Online Only)
Are you overwhelmed with negative thoughts, feeling depressed or anxious? No matter how hard you try, your life is still a struggle? I can help. When we are very young, we adapt to our environments to get our needs met for love and safety. And we continue to use those adaptions unconsciously as adults. I can help you understand your symptoms and help you change so that you may be more " in the moment" and experience more peace and joy. I teach Mindfulness, use Internal Family Systems Approach (IFS), EMDR and Hypnotherapy, and the Polyvagal theory.
Are you overwhelmed with negative thoughts, feeling depressed or anxious? No matter how hard you try, your life is still a struggle? I can help. When we are very young, we adapt to our environments to get our needs met for love and safety. And we continue to use those adaptions unconsciously as adults. I can help you understand your symptoms and help you change so that you may be more " in the moment" and experience more peace and joy. I teach Mindfulness, use Internal Family Systems Approach (IFS), EMDR and Hypnotherapy, and the Polyvagal theory.
(510) 369-0360 View (510) 369-0360
Photo of Veronica Calkins, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Veronica Calkins
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Cupertino, CA 95014
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
A Licensed Psychotherapist specializing in trauma, crisis, grief, anxiety, depression, and relationships. Veronica provides an empathetic and caring environment to work through challenges without judgment. Veronica obtained her B.A. in Psychology with a minor in Applied Developmental Psychology and Master’s in Social Welfare at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). She is trained in CBT, DBT, and family and couples therapy. She is also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) and the administration of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) and Deep-Brain Theta Stimulation.
(562) 268-0957 View (562) 268-0957
Photo of Dr. Marissa Garcia Elpidama, Psychologist in Soquel, CA
Dr. Marissa Garcia Elpidama
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Fremont, CA 94538  (Online Only)
Dr. Marissa Elpidama is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional utilizing EMDR, CBT, and somatic-based interventions. She also is a certified hypnotherapist for trauma and PTSD, facilitates Resiliency and DBT Skills groups, and is a champion for community reinforcement and family training. Dr. Elpidama does offer counseling sessions and talk therapy services; however, is not currently offer psychological testing.
Dr. Marissa Elpidama is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional utilizing EMDR, CBT, and somatic-based interventions. She also is a certified hypnotherapist for trauma and PTSD, facilitates Resiliency and DBT Skills groups, and is a champion for community reinforcement and family training. Dr. Elpidama does offer counseling sessions and talk therapy services; however, is not currently offer psychological testing.
(510) 330-0398 View (510) 330-0398
Photo of Dr. Ayesha Christina Paige Hunter, Marriage & Family Therapist in Soquel, CA
Dr. Ayesha Christina Paige Hunter
Marriage & Family Therapist, EdD, LMFT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Stockton, CA 95207
Waitlist for new clients
Currently Accepting New Patients. Trained in EMDR and BSP. I specialize in working with people of color and all others who need support. I also come from a Christian perspective, although I am open to working with people from all backgrounds. I have been formerly trained in trauma-informed practices and I am a Certified WRAP Facilitator. I sincerely care about helping people overcome their tragedies and I whole-heartedly support recovery from trauma, addictions, and life experiences that could potentially provide setbacks. I believe the saying, "A setback is a setup for a comeback!"
Currently Accepting New Patients. Trained in EMDR and BSP. I specialize in working with people of color and all others who need support. I also come from a Christian perspective, although I am open to working with people from all backgrounds. I have been formerly trained in trauma-informed practices and I am a Certified WRAP Facilitator. I sincerely care about helping people overcome their tragedies and I whole-heartedly support recovery from trauma, addictions, and life experiences that could potentially provide setbacks. I believe the saying, "A setback is a setup for a comeback!"
(209) 584-6166 View (209) 584-6166
Photo of Anna-Maria Munoz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Anna-Maria Munoz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Half Moon Bay, CA 94019
As an EMDR Certified Therapist, I have experience working with severe trauma, anxiety and depression.
Whether you are experiencing an acute personal crisis or seeking more general self examination, therapy can be an excellent way to obtain clarity and relief. Together we will explore the personal factors contributing to your distress, develop a better understanding of healthy and unhealthy patterns of dealing with your problems, and learn adaptive ways to cope. My goal is to help you increase your skills and enable you to successfully manage your current and future challenges.
As an EMDR Certified Therapist, I have experience working with severe trauma, anxiety and depression.
Whether you are experiencing an acute personal crisis or seeking more general self examination, therapy can be an excellent way to obtain clarity and relief. Together we will explore the personal factors contributing to your distress, develop a better understanding of healthy and unhealthy patterns of dealing with your problems, and learn adaptive ways to cope. My goal is to help you increase your skills and enable you to successfully manage your current and future challenges.
(650) 666-0882 View (650) 666-0882
Photo of Georgina M. Nunez-Larraz, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Georgina M. Nunez-Larraz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCHT, MSW
Verified Verified
Oakland, CA 94609  (Online Only)
I can help you access and process your trauma through EMDR, EFT, and NLP.
Hello, my name is Gina Nuñez. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist and a Complex PTSD therapist. Complex PTSD stems from trauma over a long period, i.e., child abuse/neglect. Trauma is a mental and physical imprint caused by extreme stress. Your fight, flight or freeze response is often activated if you live with trauma. Your body, mind, and emotions remain on high alert. When trauma goes untreated, it can lead to low self-esteem and a negative outlook on life, yourself, and others. I can help you overcome your negative past to build a positive future. My email page on the website stopped working, so email me.
I can help you access and process your trauma through EMDR, EFT, and NLP.
Hello, my name is Gina Nuñez. I am a Certified Clinical Trauma Therapist and a Complex PTSD therapist. Complex PTSD stems from trauma over a long period, i.e., child abuse/neglect. Trauma is a mental and physical imprint caused by extreme stress. Your fight, flight or freeze response is often activated if you live with trauma. Your body, mind, and emotions remain on high alert. When trauma goes untreated, it can lead to low self-esteem and a negative outlook on life, yourself, and others. I can help you overcome your negative past to build a positive future. My email page on the website stopped working, so email me.
(909) 340-3735 View (909) 340-3735
Photo of Deborah Lee Fishman, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Deborah Lee Fishman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alameda, CA 94501
After being a therapist for over 20 years, I have learned that each person is unique. I can help you foster that aspect of yourself and grow to be your authentic self and make decisions that support your best interest and growth. By clearing the path, relieving you from your pains and wounds, detaching you from the stories that harm you and are not true, you can make the decisions that will empower you to live your life in the way that brings you the most pleasure and happiness. After years of experience and healing my own wounds, I have found that talk therapy alone may not suffice. That is why I specialize IFS and EMDR.
After being a therapist for over 20 years, I have learned that each person is unique. I can help you foster that aspect of yourself and grow to be your authentic self and make decisions that support your best interest and growth. By clearing the path, relieving you from your pains and wounds, detaching you from the stories that harm you and are not true, you can make the decisions that will empower you to live your life in the way that brings you the most pleasure and happiness. After years of experience and healing my own wounds, I have found that talk therapy alone may not suffice. That is why I specialize IFS and EMDR.
(628) 227-5983 View (628) 227-5983
Photo of Carolyn Feyder Hokanson, Psychologist in Soquel, CA
Carolyn Feyder Hokanson
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
I am EMDR trained.
Psychotherapy is an exciting, personal growth experience. I use a combination of psychodynamic therapy, behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy and desensitization for fears and phobias. I work with each individual to develop a unique therapeutic plan. I have helped many people manage their anxiety, phobias and depression in a safe environment. Insight, behavior change, and cognitive reframing help to replace the negative, self sabotaging behaviors. Psychotherapy helps one to develop a more fulfilling life. I am EMDR trained; Pay for Service only due to skill level, session length exceeding Insurance Requirements.
I am EMDR trained.
Psychotherapy is an exciting, personal growth experience. I use a combination of psychodynamic therapy, behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy and desensitization for fears and phobias. I work with each individual to develop a unique therapeutic plan. I have helped many people manage their anxiety, phobias and depression in a safe environment. Insight, behavior change, and cognitive reframing help to replace the negative, self sabotaging behaviors. Psychotherapy helps one to develop a more fulfilling life. I am EMDR trained; Pay for Service only due to skill level, session length exceeding Insurance Requirements.
(925) 269-7944 View (925) 269-7944
Photo of Arielle Piastunovich, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Soquel, CA
Arielle Piastunovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94107  (Online Only)
I practice trauma informed supportive psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy, couples therapy, addiction therapy, and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
I practice trauma informed supportive psychotherapy, cognitive behavioral and dialectical behavioral therapy, couples therapy, addiction therapy, and EMDR.
I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 20+ years of mental health experience. I work with children, adults, older adults couples, and families. I have a wealth of diverse experience which includes mood / anxiety disorders, substance disorders (chronic alcoholism and eating disorders), and providing couples and family treatment. I specialize in trauma and relationships. Healing is often a hard and painful process, but it also can be joyful and lead to a more fulfilling life and improved relationships. I would be honored to accompany you on your journey towards happiness, acceptance, greater intimacy, peace, and recovery.
(650) 206-9870 View (650) 206-9870
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.