In person in Irvine or by video across California
EMDR Therapy in Irvine, California
For people who are tired of the same old patterns and ready to stop being held back by the past. A gentle, structured way to heal trauma without having to relive it.
Yuki and Angela
EMDRIA trained therapists
Structured 8-phase process
Cigna, Aetna, United Health Care, Optum, Curative Health Plan, Modern Health
You set the pace
5.0 on Google
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) uses bilateral stimulation, like tapping or eye movements, to help your brain process distressing memories.
Over time the emotional charge fades, and the negative beliefs those memories created begin to lose their grip. Clients notice small changes that make daily life noticeably lighter.
EMDR can help with
PTSD and childhood trauma
Anxiety and panic attacks
Grief and loss
Racial trauma and microaggressions
Perfectionism and performance anxiety
Trauma doesn't always look the way you'd expect
Many of our Asian American clients never lived through one catastrophic event. They grew up with chronic emotional invalidation, academic pressure, parentification, subtle racism, or attachment wounds that were brushed off because "nothing that bad happened."
That is often mistaken for generalized anxiety, ADHD, or a mood disorder. EMDR lets us work on those earlier experiences directly, not just manage the symptoms.
For clients from collectivist or immigrant families, we hold both gratitude and grief, with cultural humility. Over time, beliefs like "I'm not enough" and "I'm responsible for everyone" begin to soften.
EMDR is not about reliving your trauma or forgetting it. Your therapist keeps you grounded and in control throughout.
What to expect
1
We prepare first
We get to know your story beyond the trauma, map your triggers and goals, and build coping tools and support. Preparation makes EMDR work better, so we never rush it.
2
We reprocess
Short bursts of bilateral stimulation while you simply notice what comes up. You don't have to analyze anything or do it right. Your brain knows how to heal.
3
We check and strengthen
We confirm the memory no longer triggers you and strengthen healthier beliefs, like "I am strong," so the change lasts.
The EMDRIA-approved clinical framework to safely and effectively treat trauma.
The 8 phases of EMDR
1. History and planning
We learn your experiences, strengths, and goals.
2. Preparation
Grounding and calming skills so you feel resourced.
3. Assessment
We pick a memory to process in the session.
4. Desensitization
Bilateral stimulation lowers the memory's intensity.
5. Installation
We strengthen the positive belief you want to hold.
6. Body scan
We check for leftover tension and gently clear it.
7. Closure
Every session ends with you grounded and present.
8. Reevaluation
We follow up on treatment effects and what’s next.
Meet your EMDR therapists
Yuki Shida, LMFT
EMDRIA-certified therapist and practice founder
Angela Nguyen, LMFT, LPCC
EMDR-trained therapist, immediate openingsEMDR questions
Will I have to relive my trauma?
No. EMDR reprocesses memories in a safe, contained way so your brain can integrate them without overwhelming you.
What does a session feel like?
Early sessions focus on your story and coping tools. During reprocessing, you notice thoughts, emotions, and sensations while staying grounded and supported.
Is EMDR safe and gentle?
Yes. Our therapists emphasize pacing, safety, and coping skills, and you stay in control.
Do you only offer EMDR in Irvine?
We see clients in person in Irvine, and EMDR is also available by video anywhere in California.
What happens after I book?
We gather background information and match you with a therapist who fits. There's no pressure to start trauma work right away.
Ready to feel lighter?
Book a free consultation, or text (949) 228-9867
Also see: Therapy FAQs · Couples Therapy · Teen Counseling