EMDR Therapy in San Diego

Clinically Reviewed By:
Anna Pollard, PH.D., LP, BCB

San Diego Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

At ORCA Mental Health, we offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as part of our Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) programs. EMDR is a research-backed protocol that helps individuals process and recover from traumatic experiences, distressing memories, and emotional difficulties.

Recover from trauma & emotional difficulties

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is a specialized therapy that helps individuals reprocess distressing memories, reducing their emotional impact it has on their daily life. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation and allows the client to have autonomy in the process.

The 8 Phases of EMDR Therapy

EMDR follows an eight-phase protocol to guide clients through trauma processing safely and effectively:

History-Taking & Treatment Planning – Identifying traumatic memories, symptoms, and treatment goals.
Preparation – Teaching grounding and self-regulation techniques to ensure emotional stability and confidence for reprocessing.
Assessment – Identifying target memories and negative beliefs associated with trauma/memories.
Desensitization – Using bilateral stimulation to reduce emotional intensity linked to distressing memories.
Installation – Strengthening positive beliefs with memory instead of the negative self-perceptions.
Body Scan – Checking for remaining distress and ensuring full resolution of traumatic responses in the body.
Closure – Stabilizing emotions at the end of each session to ensure safety and well-being after sessions.
Reevaluation – Reviewing progress and identifying any remaining distress to address in future sessions.

Who Can Benefit from EMDR?

EMDR is particularly effective for individuals struggling with:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias
Depression and negative self-beliefs
Substance use and relapse triggers
Chronic stress and emotional dysregulation

EMDR for Co-Occurring Disorders

For clients dealing with both mental health and substance use challenges, EMDR can help by:

Addressing trauma-related triggers that contribute to substance use
Reprocessing memories linked to self-destructive or impulsive behaviors
Reducing cravings and emotional distress that fuel addiction cycles

Integrating EMDR into PHP/IOP Treatment

At ORCA Mental Health, EMDR is used alongside other therapeutic approaches for a comprehensive treatment experience, including:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) – Restructuring negative thought patterns
Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) – Enhancing emotional regulation skills
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)- Developing a self or identity that is not defined by the trauma(s) and engages in a value system.
Mindfulness & Somatic Therapies – Supporting mind-body healing
Medication Management – Addressing neurobiological factors contributing to distress

A Path to Healing & Empowerment

EMDR therapy empowers individuals to heal from the past and regain control over their emotional well-being. Many clients experience lasting relief from distressing memories and develop a greater sense of self-love and recovery.

What to Expect During an EMDR Session

History & Treatment Planning – Identifying distressing memories and goals for reprocessing
Preparation – Learning grounding and coping strategies for emotional safety
Assessment & Processing – Using bilateral stimulation to reprocess traumatic memories
Closure & Integration – Reinforcing positive beliefs and emotional regulation skills

Find EMDR Therapy in Oceanside

To learn more about EMDR therapy, visit:

EMDR International Association (EMDRIA): https://www.emdria.org
EMDR Institute: https://www.emdr.com

If you or a loved one are interested in healing through EMDR therapy, contact us today to learn more about our PHP/IOP programs.

Heal with ORCA Mental Health

We Accept Most Major Insurances

Contact our team or fill out our online form to verify your insurance coverage.

Take the First Step Toward Recovery

At ORCA Mental Health, we believe in a holistic and individualized approach to mental health care. We recognize that every journey is unique, and our programs are tailored to the specific needs of each client.