EMDR Therapists in 94103

Photo of Melissa Bright, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94103, CA
Melissa Bright
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
Are you looking for a dependable therapist who has extensive training in trauma-informed-care? Melissa provides Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She is a culturally sensitive and competent marriage and family therapist with specialized training supporting those affected by adoption, foster, and kin caregiving.
Are you looking for a dependable therapist who has extensive training in trauma-informed-care? Melissa provides Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT) and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). She is a culturally sensitive and competent marriage and family therapist with specialized training supporting those affected by adoption, foster, and kin caregiving.
(415) 367-0931 View (415) 367-0931
Photo of Eliot M. Lev, Associate Clinical Social Worker in 94103, CA
Eliot M. Lev
Associate Clinical Social Worker, ACSW, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
If you're interested in specifics, I offer anti-oppressive, compassion-focused, DBT, CBT, ACT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Somatic, IFS, Psychodynamic, Ketamine-Assisted, and Harm-Reduction therapies.
In the journey towards healing and self-discovery, finding a therapist who truly understands the intersectionality of your experiences is key. As a therapist and part of the trans, queer, ethnic minority, multicultural, immigrant, trauma survivor, and (dis)ability communities, I'm dedicated to honoring all that makes you - you. The uniqueness of your journey, recognition of your experiences, and collaboration will be at the core of our work.
If you're interested in specifics, I offer anti-oppressive, compassion-focused, DBT, CBT, ACT, EMDR, Mindfulness, Somatic, IFS, Psychodynamic, Ketamine-Assisted, and Harm-Reduction therapies.
In the journey towards healing and self-discovery, finding a therapist who truly understands the intersectionality of your experiences is key. As a therapist and part of the trans, queer, ethnic minority, multicultural, immigrant, trauma survivor, and (dis)ability communities, I'm dedicated to honoring all that makes you - you. The uniqueness of your journey, recognition of your experiences, and collaboration will be at the core of our work.
(415) 498-1860 View (415) 498-1860
Photo of Tony Xiong, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94103, CA
Tony Xiong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
As a psychotherapist I utilize several modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and more.
My passion has always been to help people heal and find inner peace. For some, this might mean having to work through a difficult past so it doesn’t haunt them in their present life: for others, it’s just having someone to talk to. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, or needing to figure out what to do with your life, I’m here and I’m ready to help you.
As a psychotherapist I utilize several modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Exposure Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and more.
My passion has always been to help people heal and find inner peace. For some, this might mean having to work through a difficult past so it doesn’t haunt them in their present life: for others, it’s just having someone to talk to. Whether you are struggling with depression, anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, or needing to figure out what to do with your life, I’m here and I’m ready to help you.
(415) 980-3470 View (415) 980-3470
Photo of Harmony Rousseau, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94103, CA
Harmony Rousseau
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
To assist my clients in processing their traumas and accessing their strengths, I use a variety of modalities including EMDR, Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Pia Melody’s Post Induction Therapy (PIT) model.
I am a strength-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist—one who believes we each have the inner resources we need to be successful and happy in our lives. During our life journeys, many of us may need assistance with finding and/or highlighting our inner strengths so we can breakthrough our struggles, whether they be past traumas, family patterns/dynamics, relationship/attachment issues or a simple and current need for change. My hope is to help my clients build on their strengths, pinpoint their patterns, rewrite their stories, and find their way back to the positive aspects of life they deserve to experience.
To assist my clients in processing their traumas and accessing their strengths, I use a variety of modalities including EMDR, Brainspotting, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Pia Melody’s Post Induction Therapy (PIT) model.
I am a strength-based Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist—one who believes we each have the inner resources we need to be successful and happy in our lives. During our life journeys, many of us may need assistance with finding and/or highlighting our inner strengths so we can breakthrough our struggles, whether they be past traumas, family patterns/dynamics, relationship/attachment issues or a simple and current need for change. My hope is to help my clients build on their strengths, pinpoint their patterns, rewrite their stories, and find their way back to the positive aspects of life they deserve to experience.
(415) 687-4216 View (415) 687-4216
Photo of Karisa Quick, Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor in 94103, CA
Karisa Quick
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, M A ED, LPCC, PPS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
LGBTQ+, EMDR, trauma, Religious deconversion, EMDR. I’m a queer, non-binary therapist who loves helping people recover from painful experiences, deal with life stress, and take control of their lives. We will take steps together to help you move toward your ideal self by focusing on your healing, goals, dreams, passions, fears, and unique qualities. Therapy is personal and beautiful and can bring up difficult feelings. We will work to help you feel safe and develop skills to deal with these intense emotions. I only work with adult individuals at this time. I am in-network with some insurances and I also offer Superbills!
LGBTQ+, EMDR, trauma, Religious deconversion, EMDR. I’m a queer, non-binary therapist who loves helping people recover from painful experiences, deal with life stress, and take control of their lives. We will take steps together to help you move toward your ideal self by focusing on your healing, goals, dreams, passions, fears, and unique qualities. Therapy is personal and beautiful and can bring up difficult feelings. We will work to help you feel safe and develop skills to deal with these intense emotions. I only work with adult individuals at this time. I am in-network with some insurances and I also offer Superbills!
(909) 244-3219 View (909) 244-3219
Photo of Darla Griffith, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94103, CA
Darla Griffith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
I'm a Certified EMDR Clinician which is appropriate for treating multiple issues including anxiety, depression, trauma.
Hi there, I'm Darla Griffith and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 20 years experience working in the areas of anger management, emotional disturbance, stress (including job stress), coping skills, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and self esteem. I provide services in person but also via telehealth which allows for services anywhere in the state of California.
I'm a Certified EMDR Clinician which is appropriate for treating multiple issues including anxiety, depression, trauma.
Hi there, I'm Darla Griffith and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) with 20 years experience working in the areas of anger management, emotional disturbance, stress (including job stress), coping skills, depression, anxiety, mood disorders, and self esteem. I provide services in person but also via telehealth which allows for services anywhere in the state of California.
(559) 316-5403 View (559) 316-5403
Photo of Jess Adam Converse, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94103, CA
Jess Adam Converse
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
Whether you have tried other forms of therapy in the past or this is your first time exploring options EMDR has proven to be an effective intervention for resolving mental health symptoms and restoring a positive outlook. This combined with conducting sessions virtually means less hassle to connect with these progressive mental health approaches. Let's set up an initial 15 minute session to consider the best way forward.
Whether you have tried other forms of therapy in the past or this is your first time exploring options EMDR has proven to be an effective intervention for resolving mental health symptoms and restoring a positive outlook. This combined with conducting sessions virtually means less hassle to connect with these progressive mental health approaches. Let's set up an initial 15 minute session to consider the best way forward.
(323) 417-6921 View (323) 417-6921
Photo of Rachel A Erwin, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94103, CA
Rachel A Erwin
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
I am passionate about supporting people to quickly move through psychological blocks that create stress and stop the flow of creative, productive energy. I focus on facilitating freedom from anxiety and depression created by past experiences, opening the mind to what is present and possible, instead of old and no longer useful. I work extensively with the therapeutic technique known as EMDR, which is clinically proven to be an effective treatment for Anxiety/Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I am an EMDRIA approved Consultant and a Trainer for the Trauma Recovery Humanitarian Assistance Program. www.emdrhap.org
I am passionate about supporting people to quickly move through psychological blocks that create stress and stop the flow of creative, productive energy. I focus on facilitating freedom from anxiety and depression created by past experiences, opening the mind to what is present and possible, instead of old and no longer useful. I work extensively with the therapeutic technique known as EMDR, which is clinically proven to be an effective treatment for Anxiety/Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. I am an EMDRIA approved Consultant and a Trainer for the Trauma Recovery Humanitarian Assistance Program. www.emdrhap.org
(510) 863-4970 View (510) 863-4970
Photo of Efrén F. Hilera, Psychologist in 94103, CA
Efrén F. Hilera
Psychologist, PsyD, MBA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
I am well-trained & have extensive experience with evidence-based treatments, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), exposure treatment for anxiety, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), motivational interviewing, MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy) & DBT (Dialectic-Behavioral Therapy).
I am an empowerment and transformational coach who works with individuals, couples, companies and organizations who are committed to living life in a powerful, meaningful and fulfilling way! I am passionate about working with and developing effective leaders, transforming work cultures, creating more engagement in teams, and helping individuals and organizations achieve their goals and dreams. If you feel inspired by what you read, please contact me so that we can explore if we should work together and discuss how I can bring value to your life and/or organization.
I am well-trained & have extensive experience with evidence-based treatments, including CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy), exposure treatment for anxiety, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing), motivational interviewing, MBCT (Mindfulness-Based Cognitive Therapy) & DBT (Dialectic-Behavioral Therapy).
I am an empowerment and transformational coach who works with individuals, couples, companies and organizations who are committed to living life in a powerful, meaningful and fulfilling way! I am passionate about working with and developing effective leaders, transforming work cultures, creating more engagement in teams, and helping individuals and organizations achieve their goals and dreams. If you feel inspired by what you read, please contact me so that we can explore if we should work together and discuss how I can bring value to your life and/or organization.
(650) 924-9912 View (650) 924-9912
Photo of Ryoko Moriguchi, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94103, CA
Ryoko Moriguchi
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103
Update: Now accepting new clients for Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy. Whether you are looking for help with specific situations, or a place to continue your recovery, having an objective and supportive guide is essential. Therapy is an invaluable process for anyone who is trying to come to terms with painful experiences, to change patterns that no longer serve you, or to find inner balance in an ever-changing world.
Update: Now accepting new clients for Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy. Whether you are looking for help with specific situations, or a place to continue your recovery, having an objective and supportive guide is essential. Therapy is an invaluable process for anyone who is trying to come to terms with painful experiences, to change patterns that no longer serve you, or to find inner balance in an ever-changing world.
(415) 877-4239 View (415) 877-4239
Photo of Farzaneh Eleen, Psychologist in 94103, CA
Farzaneh Eleen
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
I utilize psychodynamic, family systems, and cognitive behavioral concepts as well as mindfulness, DBT, EMDR, and interpersonally based psychotherapy interventions and practices.
I aim to help my clients achieve their goals by dissolving obstacles, discovering patterns, and gaining insights while developing new skills to cope with life challenges. This journey may take a few sessions or several, and it requires motivation, commitment, and consistency. I work best with clients who are willing to be accountable and responsible for the changes they wish to make in their lives.
I utilize psychodynamic, family systems, and cognitive behavioral concepts as well as mindfulness, DBT, EMDR, and interpersonally based psychotherapy interventions and practices.
I aim to help my clients achieve their goals by dissolving obstacles, discovering patterns, and gaining insights while developing new skills to cope with life challenges. This journey may take a few sessions or several, and it requires motivation, commitment, and consistency. I work best with clients who are willing to be accountable and responsible for the changes they wish to make in their lives.
(650) 539-2648 View (650) 539-2648
Photo of Yalith Fonfa, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in 94103, CA
Yalith Fonfa
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
I use tools like harm reduction and EMDR, teaching coping and grounding skills you'll actually use and processing through past trauma so you can live in the present.
Would you like to feel more at ease and present in your life? Are you ready to work through and move on from past experiences that are still hurting you? Are you struggling with substances or behaviors that are no longer serving you? Do you want to understand yourself better so you can live your life fully and authentically? I help my clients recover, heal and transform their lives.
I use tools like harm reduction and EMDR, teaching coping and grounding skills you'll actually use and processing through past trauma so you can live in the present.
Would you like to feel more at ease and present in your life? Are you ready to work through and move on from past experiences that are still hurting you? Are you struggling with substances or behaviors that are no longer serving you? Do you want to understand yourself better so you can live your life fully and authentically? I help my clients recover, heal and transform their lives.
(415) 363-6239 View (415) 363-6239
Photo of Alex Theberge, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94103, CA
Alex Theberge
Marriage & Family Therapist, MFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
Thank for your interest in my therapy practice. I’m a trauma-focused therapist who specializes in helping people heal from childhood trauma, PTSD, and psycho-emotional wounds. I see healing as a deeply personal and meaningful journey to recover our authentic wholeness and unique gifts for the world. It often involves reconnecting to and integrating split-off parts of ourselves, clearing traumatic memories, and releasing blockages and old patterns that no longer serve us. I work with a variety of healing modalities that are particularly helpful for healing trauma, including EMDR, journey work, parts work, and hypnotherapy.
Thank for your interest in my therapy practice. I’m a trauma-focused therapist who specializes in helping people heal from childhood trauma, PTSD, and psycho-emotional wounds. I see healing as a deeply personal and meaningful journey to recover our authentic wholeness and unique gifts for the world. It often involves reconnecting to and integrating split-off parts of ourselves, clearing traumatic memories, and releasing blockages and old patterns that no longer serve us. I work with a variety of healing modalities that are particularly helpful for healing trauma, including EMDR, journey work, parts work, and hypnotherapy.
(415) 797-0197 View (415) 797-0197
Photo of Laura Mohaupt, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94103, CA
Laura Mohaupt
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
This includes guided imagery, EMDR, mindfulness, and/or awareness exercises.
I offer holistic psychotherapy to individuals and couples with a primary focus on relationship issues, anxiety, trauma, and women's issues. My approach is warm, compassionate, interactive, and engaged. I am particularly interested in helping you become more connected to your sense of purpose and authenticity. Above all, I am curious about your unique needs and collaborate with you to continually address and meet these needs.
This includes guided imagery, EMDR, mindfulness, and/or awareness exercises.
I offer holistic psychotherapy to individuals and couples with a primary focus on relationship issues, anxiety, trauma, and women's issues. My approach is warm, compassionate, interactive, and engaged. I am particularly interested in helping you become more connected to your sense of purpose and authenticity. Above all, I am curious about your unique needs and collaborate with you to continually address and meet these needs.
(415) 944-1014 View (415) 944-1014
Photo of Alexandra (Ali) Joy Sideroff, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94103, CA
Alexandra (Ali) Joy Sideroff
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103
One tool I frequently engage is EMDR, an evidence-based treatment.
Support for depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship struggles with mindfulness. Clear obstacles that obstruct authenticity and peace. We may work through past traumas that shape your experience or examine present issues from a solution-focused perspective to develop tools with application to daily life. I apply a holistic model that recognizes multiple facets of your experience. This may include physical, emotional, mental, psychosocial and spiritual. Expertise in LGBTQQI+ communities as well as straight clientele. In-person Seattle, virtual anywhere in California and Washington.
One tool I frequently engage is EMDR, an evidence-based treatment.
Support for depression, anxiety, trauma and relationship struggles with mindfulness. Clear obstacles that obstruct authenticity and peace. We may work through past traumas that shape your experience or examine present issues from a solution-focused perspective to develop tools with application to daily life. I apply a holistic model that recognizes multiple facets of your experience. This may include physical, emotional, mental, psychosocial and spiritual. Expertise in LGBTQQI+ communities as well as straight clientele. In-person Seattle, virtual anywhere in California and Washington.
(415) 799-8168 View (415) 799-8168
Photo of Michael G. Quirke, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94103, CA
Michael G. Quirke
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103
Because I specialize in the treatment of trauma, the methods I practice include, EMDR, Neurofeedback, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Somatic Therapy, and IFS.
Don't Let Your Feelings Get The Best Of You. Is a persistent, overwhelming sense of grief and sadness preventing you from living the life you want? Are you dealing with intense emotions of shame, guilt, or hopelessness for seemingly no reason at all? Perhaps you have experienced a traumatic event or childhood neglect that is manifesting as fear, anxiety, or helplessness. Or it could be that you recognize the signs of depression but feel like you have nowhere to turn. If any of this sounds familiar, you are not alone. And I want to assure you that there is much we can do to help you find inner peace and greater contentment.
Because I specialize in the treatment of trauma, the methods I practice include, EMDR, Neurofeedback, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Somatic Therapy, and IFS.
Don't Let Your Feelings Get The Best Of You. Is a persistent, overwhelming sense of grief and sadness preventing you from living the life you want? Are you dealing with intense emotions of shame, guilt, or hopelessness for seemingly no reason at all? Perhaps you have experienced a traumatic event or childhood neglect that is manifesting as fear, anxiety, or helplessness. Or it could be that you recognize the signs of depression but feel like you have nowhere to turn. If any of this sounds familiar, you are not alone. And I want to assure you that there is much we can do to help you find inner peace and greater contentment.
(415) 448-6952 View (415) 448-6952
Photo of Sandra M Amat, Marriage & Family Therapist in 94103, CA
Sandra M Amat
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103
I integrate Gestalt Therapy, Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), somatic exercises and mindfulness practices, the Enneagram, Feeling States Therapy, and Transpersonal Therapy.
I specialize in Conscious Relationship. I help people learn how to show up as an adult for a conscious relationship with themselves and other people. We look at, excavate and rework personal and interpersonal dynamics, heal attachment wounding and past hurts and patterns that get in the way of healthy relating, developing the Emotional Intelligence necessary to show up. Please feel free to reach out or check out my website to learn more.
I integrate Gestalt Therapy, Family Systems, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), somatic exercises and mindfulness practices, the Enneagram, Feeling States Therapy, and Transpersonal Therapy.
I specialize in Conscious Relationship. I help people learn how to show up as an adult for a conscious relationship with themselves and other people. We look at, excavate and rework personal and interpersonal dynamics, heal attachment wounding and past hurts and patterns that get in the way of healthy relating, developing the Emotional Intelligence necessary to show up. Please feel free to reach out or check out my website to learn more.
(650) 385-8967 View (650) 385-8967
Photo of Theresa Carpinito Kira, Psychologist in 94103, CA
Theresa Carpinito Kira
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
I incorporate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy, and other self-compassion and mindfulness-based techniques.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body image concerns, relationship issues, life/role transitions, attachment issues, and trauma. I focus on trying to help my clients identify what is important to them and to find ways to live a more rich and meaningful life. I help to uncover what negative beliefs or patterns might be keeping them stuck while helping to shift perspective on their distress and find ways to move forward. I see adults only in my practice.
I incorporate evidence-based approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR), Schema Therapy, and other self-compassion and mindfulness-based techniques.
I work with individuals experiencing anxiety, depression, disordered eating, body image concerns, relationship issues, life/role transitions, attachment issues, and trauma. I focus on trying to help my clients identify what is important to them and to find ways to live a more rich and meaningful life. I help to uncover what negative beliefs or patterns might be keeping them stuck while helping to shift perspective on their distress and find ways to move forward. I see adults only in my practice.
(415) 650-5307 View (415) 650-5307
Photo of Rachel Rosenfeld, Psychologist in 94103, CA
Rachel Rosenfeld
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
As the daughter of a narcissist I am uniquely qualified to guide you through your own process of recovery. I specialize in Adult Children of Narcissists, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Codependency, Adult Children of Dysfunctional Families with an emphasis on early childhood survival and its effect on adult relationships, and couples. My style is interactive, engaged and non-judgmental. I offer individual sessions, weekly support groups and small group intensives (see website). Clinical training includes: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, EFT &Pia Mellody's trauma treatment model, PACT & Gottman (for couples). Phone and Zoom available.
As the daughter of a narcissist I am uniquely qualified to guide you through your own process of recovery. I specialize in Adult Children of Narcissists, Adult Children of Alcoholics, Codependency, Adult Children of Dysfunctional Families with an emphasis on early childhood survival and its effect on adult relationships, and couples. My style is interactive, engaged and non-judgmental. I offer individual sessions, weekly support groups and small group intensives (see website). Clinical training includes: Somatic Experiencing, EMDR, EFT &Pia Mellody's trauma treatment model, PACT & Gottman (for couples). Phone and Zoom available.
(858) 240-8647 View (858) 240-8647
Photo of Kaitlyn C Kuo, Psychologist in 94103, CA
Kaitlyn C Kuo
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
San Francisco, CA 94103  (Online Only)
I am a certified EMDR provider.
I believe everyone, if given a supportive and secure space, can discover their inner-self and learn to appreciate who they genuinely are, which leads to improved relationships. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Taiwan with over 10 years of practice experience. I have helped diverse populations with a wide range of issues in a variety of settings, including a community mental health center, a college counseling center, a domestic violence women's shelter, a re-entry program, an outpatient opiate treatment clinic, skilled nursing homes, a youth correctional counseling program, and an elementary school district.
I am a certified EMDR provider.
I believe everyone, if given a supportive and secure space, can discover their inner-self and learn to appreciate who they genuinely are, which leads to improved relationships. I am a licensed clinical psychologist in California and Taiwan with over 10 years of practice experience. I have helped diverse populations with a wide range of issues in a variety of settings, including a community mental health center, a college counseling center, a domestic violence women's shelter, a re-entry program, an outpatient opiate treatment clinic, skilled nursing homes, a youth correctional counseling program, and an elementary school district.
(626) 486-9621 View (626) 486-9621
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.