EMDR Therapists in Redondo Beach, CA
Lindsey Mandell
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (Online Only)
Wherever you are in your process of healing, I'm glad you're here. My practice welcomes and affirms aIl people. In therapy, you may gain deeper insight into your patterns, relationships, and processes. You may find greater alignment and ease with yourself and others. Many people I work with experience exhaustion and psychological pain that feels inescapable. Therapy is a place to find release from the heaviness. My specific training in Health Psychology and EMDR allows me to support clients in creating personal peace and freedom.
Wherever you are in your process of healing, I'm glad you're here. My practice welcomes and affirms aIl people. In therapy, you may gain deeper insight into your patterns, relationships, and processes. You may find greater alignment and ease with yourself and others. Many people I work with experience exhaustion and psychological pain that feels inescapable. Therapy is a place to find release from the heaviness. My specific training in Health Psychology and EMDR allows me to support clients in creating personal peace and freedom.
I draw on aspects of cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, psychodynamic, and biofeedback to assist patients in improving their symptoms, relationships, self-image, and coping strategies.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
I draw on aspects of cognitive and dialectical behavioral therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, psychodynamic, and biofeedback to assist patients in improving their symptoms, relationships, self-image, and coping strategies.
One of the most important aspects in therapy is for patients to feel heard, respected, and understood. Given that each individual is unique, and no one issue is ever the same among different people, my approach is integrative and tailored to meet the needs of the person, not the "problem". I strive to create a compassionate, non-judgemental environment for patients to learn, grow, explore, challenge, and to live the life they want to be living. I specialize in working with adults - individual, couples, and family - with anxiety, depression, PTSD/trauma, relationship problems, substance abuse, ADD/ADHD, and LGBTQ issues.
I rely on over 20 years of clinical experience in private practice with hundreds of individuals, couples and groups along with EMDR, EFT and somatic experiencing to help clients gently heal painful memories, experiences and negative patterns.
I specialize in cutting edge techniques that work at the level of the unconscious mind to help gently and efficiently shift unwanted patterns of behavior. We often don't realize that the way we respond and perceive things in the present is due to past programming. This programming not only creates a blueprint for who we choose and how we behave in our intimate relationships but also determines our ability to cope with stress and deal with painful emotions throughout our lifetime. The techniques I use and teach my clients work especially well with anxiety, phobias, depression and trauma.
I rely on over 20 years of clinical experience in private practice with hundreds of individuals, couples and groups along with EMDR, EFT and somatic experiencing to help clients gently heal painful memories, experiences and negative patterns.
I specialize in cutting edge techniques that work at the level of the unconscious mind to help gently and efficiently shift unwanted patterns of behavior. We often don't realize that the way we respond and perceive things in the present is due to past programming. This programming not only creates a blueprint for who we choose and how we behave in our intimate relationships but also determines our ability to cope with stress and deal with painful emotions throughout our lifetime. The techniques I use and teach my clients work especially well with anxiety, phobias, depression and trauma.
Dr. Melis Alkin Board Certified Clinical Psychologist
Psychologist, PsyD, ABPP, FT, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
I am certified in EMDR therapy and trained in Relational Life Therapy (RLT) perspective.
Welcome to my practice! I am a board certified clinical psychologist with over 20 years in practice and specialize in depression, trauma, anxiety, grief and relationship issues. I support clients in navigating life transitions such as existential, trauma, relational issues. Together we will explore how past experiences shape your current thoughts, emotions and behavior and work towards your goals for change, meaning making and finding renewed purpose, connection, and vitality. I am licensed in CA and NY.
I am certified in EMDR therapy and trained in Relational Life Therapy (RLT) perspective.
Welcome to my practice! I am a board certified clinical psychologist with over 20 years in practice and specialize in depression, trauma, anxiety, grief and relationship issues. I support clients in navigating life transitions such as existential, trauma, relational issues. Together we will explore how past experiences shape your current thoughts, emotions and behavior and work towards your goals for change, meaning making and finding renewed purpose, connection, and vitality. I am licensed in CA and NY.
Dabney Worth
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, ACSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
I have 30 years experience working with individuals, couples and families dealing with life's struggles, overwhelming emotions, end of life issues, and grief and loss. My approach is warm and gentle, yet insightful and to the point. I create an inviting atmosphere where my clients feel comfortable to delve deep to bring about peace of mind and profound change. My approach incorporates a variety of evidenced based therapeutic approaches including mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and EMDR. You will find me to be both caring and firm, while I help you along your journey to building a life worth living.
I have 30 years experience working with individuals, couples and families dealing with life's struggles, overwhelming emotions, end of life issues, and grief and loss. My approach is warm and gentle, yet insightful and to the point. I create an inviting atmosphere where my clients feel comfortable to delve deep to bring about peace of mind and profound change. My approach incorporates a variety of evidenced based therapeutic approaches including mindfulness, DBT, CBT, and EMDR. You will find me to be both caring and firm, while I help you along your journey to building a life worth living.
Modalities I often use with clients include: CBT, EMDR, Talk Therapy, Solution-Focused, Psychodynamic.
Finding a therapist can be hard, but connecting well with someone is the most effective tool. Call me for free 15 minute consult to see if we're a good fit. I specialize in Postpartum & Women's Issues, EMDR for Trauma & Self-esteem, and Pre-marital Counseling using tools from the Gottman method. I like using evidence based practices and giving my client's practical tools to takeaway with them in addition to the conversational/relational part of therapy. Looking forward to chatting!
Modalities I often use with clients include: CBT, EMDR, Talk Therapy, Solution-Focused, Psychodynamic.
Finding a therapist can be hard, but connecting well with someone is the most effective tool. Call me for free 15 minute consult to see if we're a good fit. I specialize in Postpartum & Women's Issues, EMDR for Trauma & Self-esteem, and Pre-marital Counseling using tools from the Gottman method. I like using evidence based practices and giving my client's practical tools to takeaway with them in addition to the conversational/relational part of therapy. Looking forward to chatting!
In addition, I am trained in EMDR, which is one of the most efficient and effective treatments for trauma and PTSD.
I am committed to, and very passionate about, working with people to help them find deeper meaning and fulfillment in their lives. I feel therapy is a place where you can feel safe to openly express yourself, as you work side-by-side with someone who will assist you in building self-awareness, promote change, and ultimately improve the relationships and your life.
In addition, I am trained in EMDR, which is one of the most efficient and effective treatments for trauma and PTSD.
I am committed to, and very passionate about, working with people to help them find deeper meaning and fulfillment in their lives. I feel therapy is a place where you can feel safe to openly express yourself, as you work side-by-side with someone who will assist you in building self-awareness, promote change, and ultimately improve the relationships and your life.
Mish Lowery
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90278
Through the use of Evidence Based Practices such as EMDR & Solution Focused Therapy, and the Flash technique, my goal for you is to address & explore how trauma, family & social narratives are impacting you.
There are numerous reasons people turn to therapy. Whether you're struggling with managing relationships, identity, athletic performance (working through the "yips"), experiencing emotional dysregulation due to past experiences or the unknown future, or need a safe space to challenge your thoughts & beliefs. I believe you have the inner strength & ability to create mindful, powerful positive changes in your life to reach any goal. I'm passionate about supporting you on your therapy journey in person (walk & talk therapy only) and virtually.
Through the use of Evidence Based Practices such as EMDR & Solution Focused Therapy, and the Flash technique, my goal for you is to address & explore how trauma, family & social narratives are impacting you.
There are numerous reasons people turn to therapy. Whether you're struggling with managing relationships, identity, athletic performance (working through the "yips"), experiencing emotional dysregulation due to past experiences or the unknown future, or need a safe space to challenge your thoughts & beliefs. I believe you have the inner strength & ability to create mindful, powerful positive changes in your life to reach any goal. I'm passionate about supporting you on your therapy journey in person (walk & talk therapy only) and virtually.
Katie Stone
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I'm a neurodivergent therapist trained in EMDR therapy, specializing in eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and relational issues.
I believe everything you need to succeed already exists within you. Wherever you are on your wellness journey is exactly where you need to be. I'm here to support, encourage, and challenge you to break free from maladaptive patterns and regain control over your life. If you’re eager to heal your relationship with your body, nurture a stronger sense of self, and cultivate more fulfilling relationships, you’ve come to the right place! My ideal client is someone seeking a deeper, more meaningful therapy experience beyond traditional "talk therapy." They are ready to combine insight with intentional action to create lasting change.
I'm a neurodivergent therapist trained in EMDR therapy, specializing in eating disorders, trauma, anxiety, ADHD, OCD, and relational issues.
I believe everything you need to succeed already exists within you. Wherever you are on your wellness journey is exactly where you need to be. I'm here to support, encourage, and challenge you to break free from maladaptive patterns and regain control over your life. If you’re eager to heal your relationship with your body, nurture a stronger sense of self, and cultivate more fulfilling relationships, you’ve come to the right place! My ideal client is someone seeking a deeper, more meaningful therapy experience beyond traditional "talk therapy." They are ready to combine insight with intentional action to create lasting change.
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and hypnotherapy.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
I am certified in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and hypnotherapy.
Finding a psychotherapist you feel comfortable sharing your thoughts and feelings with can seem like a great challenge. As you search, it is helpful to be mindful of what is bringing you to therapy and what you are wanting from a therapist. When you find someone you think you may be able to bond with, you can talk with them about what you are looking for and if you don't know, ask them how they envision working with you. As a psychologist with over 30 years of experience, I believe that meeting the client where they are is the key to creating a safe and supportive environment conducive to change.
Erika Rogers
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, APCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, and while I’m trained in psychodynamic therapy, I integrate techniques like EMDR, CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy to create a treatment plan that (actually) works for YOU.
Hi, I'm Erika! I’m passionate about supporting individuals (ages 14+), couples, and families navigate many of life's challenges. My areas of focus are anxiety/depression, eating disorders, relationship issues, addiction, or past trauma. Maybe you've experienced sexual assault, or struggle with an eating disorder like anorexia, binge eating, or body image concerns. Perhaps you're navigating relationship struggles (and want to disrupt core patterns that aren’t working), or addiction (including substance use, sex addiction, or porn addiction). Whatever your battle, I offer a safe and supportive space to heal and rediscover yourself.
I don't believe in a one-size-fits-all approach, and while I’m trained in psychodynamic therapy, I integrate techniques like EMDR, CBT, DBT, and somatic therapy to create a treatment plan that (actually) works for YOU.
Hi, I'm Erika! I’m passionate about supporting individuals (ages 14+), couples, and families navigate many of life's challenges. My areas of focus are anxiety/depression, eating disorders, relationship issues, addiction, or past trauma. Maybe you've experienced sexual assault, or struggle with an eating disorder like anorexia, binge eating, or body image concerns. Perhaps you're navigating relationship struggles (and want to disrupt core patterns that aren’t working), or addiction (including substance use, sex addiction, or porn addiction). Whatever your battle, I offer a safe and supportive space to heal and rediscover yourself.
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Psychologist, PsyD, EMDR
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Waitlist for new clients
I am also certified in EMDR and provide therapy to help individuals heal and grow from traumatic experiences.
As a psychologist, I empower individuals to grow and reach fulfillment in their lives. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents who desire a safe space to share, work through challenges, and celebrate progress. I like to think about life as a long road trip. Sometimes the terrain is going to be rocky and there will be obstacles in the way and other times it will be smooth and open. As your psychologist, I will help you navigate the terrain of life effectively.
I am also certified in EMDR and provide therapy to help individuals heal and grow from traumatic experiences.
As a psychologist, I empower individuals to grow and reach fulfillment in their lives. I specialize in working with adults and adolescents who desire a safe space to share, work through challenges, and celebrate progress. I like to think about life as a long road trip. Sometimes the terrain is going to be rocky and there will be obstacles in the way and other times it will be smooth and open. As your psychologist, I will help you navigate the terrain of life effectively.
Anne-Karin Nelson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PT, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I am an EMDR Clinician and have worked with clients with, for example, phobias (fear of public speaking), chronic pain, single episodic traumas (motor vehicle accident), traumas from childhood abuse.
Is stress, anxiety, depression, or overwhelm an issue? Sometimes life brings changes that are difficult to cope with; loss of a loved one, loss of health, loss of employment, trauma, divorce. I provide a safe and accepting environment in which we can process these changes together, finding your strengths and empowering you to meet these challenges.
I am an EMDR Clinician and have worked with clients with, for example, phobias (fear of public speaking), chronic pain, single episodic traumas (motor vehicle accident), traumas from childhood abuse.
Is stress, anxiety, depression, or overwhelm an issue? Sometimes life brings changes that are difficult to cope with; loss of a loved one, loss of health, loss of employment, trauma, divorce. I provide a safe and accepting environment in which we can process these changes together, finding your strengths and empowering you to meet these challenges.
Susan Davis Swanson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (Online Only)
I have used EMDR for about 25 years along with somatic therapy to help people work through traumatic experiences and find relief.
Stepfamily life is challenging. You may very well be wondering how you're going to do this. It looks like it "should" be easier than it is and that you "should" be able to figure this out. Your loved one cannot understand why you struggle. But I do. I've been there and it is why I help couples dealing with stepfamily life. You are going through challenges that simply do not occur in a first family. Learning about these dynamics and working with them creates more remarriage success. I can help you find success in your stepfamily.
I have used EMDR for about 25 years along with somatic therapy to help people work through traumatic experiences and find relief.
Stepfamily life is challenging. You may very well be wondering how you're going to do this. It looks like it "should" be easier than it is and that you "should" be able to figure this out. Your loved one cannot understand why you struggle. But I do. I've been there and it is why I help couples dealing with stepfamily life. You are going through challenges that simply do not occur in a first family. Learning about these dynamics and working with them creates more remarriage success. I can help you find success in your stepfamily.
Kelly Spagnuolo
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, BSP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
Kelly is a Certified Brainspotting Practitioner, trained in Attachment focused EMDR, trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and trained under one of the founding member of the United States Association of Body Psychotherapy.
Kelly Spagnuolo is devoted to helping her clients tap into their unique ability to heal, assisting them in accessing their unlimited potential. Through her unconditional positive regard and compassionate attunement, Kelly is masterful at providing a safe space for healing to occur. Kelly knows first-hand how to heal the wounded parts inside. As a result, she is able to guide her clients on their journey to Self-Discovery, Self-Empowerment, and gracefully facilitates a re-connection to the Authentic Self. Kelly is able to assist her clients with healing on all levels of Consciousness; Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual.
Kelly is a Certified Brainspotting Practitioner, trained in Attachment focused EMDR, trained in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and trained under one of the founding member of the United States Association of Body Psychotherapy.
Kelly Spagnuolo is devoted to helping her clients tap into their unique ability to heal, assisting them in accessing their unlimited potential. Through her unconditional positive regard and compassionate attunement, Kelly is masterful at providing a safe space for healing to occur. Kelly knows first-hand how to heal the wounded parts inside. As a result, she is able to guide her clients on their journey to Self-Discovery, Self-Empowerment, and gracefully facilitates a re-connection to the Authentic Self. Kelly is able to assist her clients with healing on all levels of Consciousness; Physical, Mental, Emotional, and Spiritual.
Becca Rosenberg
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, MA, AMFT
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
I offer both traditional talk therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy to help you heal from difficult experiences and shift limiting self-beliefs.
I’m Becca Rosenberg, a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. At the core of my practice is creating a warm, empathetic space where you can feel comfortable, heard, and understood. I deeply believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and prioritize ensuring a safe and empowering environment for personal growth and healing. While I specialize in trauma, my approach is also rooted in strengths-based and humanistic psychotherapy.
I offer both traditional talk therapy and EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy to help you heal from difficult experiences and shift limiting self-beliefs.
I’m Becca Rosenberg, a registered Associate Marriage and Family Therapist with a Master’s degree in Clinical Psychology. At the core of my practice is creating a warm, empathetic space where you can feel comfortable, heard, and understood. I deeply believe in the power of the therapeutic relationship and prioritize ensuring a safe and empowering environment for personal growth and healing. While I specialize in trauma, my approach is also rooted in strengths-based and humanistic psychotherapy.
Jennifer Dugan
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90278 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am a licensed psychologist with over 25 of years experience. I am currently focusing my practice on EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy -including Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Exposure Response Prevention Therapy. I have education and training in all of these treatment modalities which are evidence based treatment modalities for trauma, anxiety, depression and OCD. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to help you navigate through your struggles to figure out where you want to go - and more importantly- the tools to get you there.
I am a licensed psychologist with over 25 of years experience. I am currently focusing my practice on EMDR, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy -including Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Exposure Response Prevention Therapy. I have education and training in all of these treatment modalities which are evidence based treatment modalities for trauma, anxiety, depression and OCD. I offer a safe, non-judgmental space to help you navigate through your struggles to figure out where you want to go - and more importantly- the tools to get you there.
Well-Play Counseling & Wellbeing Center
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LCSW, APCC, AMFT
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277
If you are an African American/Black or woman of color struggling with life stressors, mental health issues, imposter syndrome, self-esteem, trauma, racism in the workplace, generational trauma, or more, it is time to give Well-Play Counseling & Wellbeing Center a call. We have trained therapists waiting to assist you in your healing journey. We create a safe healing space free of judgment and shame so that you can heal. We are eclectic in our approach as one size does not fit all, we have therapists who specialize in CBT, inner child, Brainspotting, EMDR, and other modalities. Ready to heal, give us a call.
If you are an African American/Black or woman of color struggling with life stressors, mental health issues, imposter syndrome, self-esteem, trauma, racism in the workplace, generational trauma, or more, it is time to give Well-Play Counseling & Wellbeing Center a call. We have trained therapists waiting to assist you in your healing journey. We create a safe healing space free of judgment and shame so that you can heal. We are eclectic in our approach as one size does not fit all, we have therapists who specialize in CBT, inner child, Brainspotting, EMDR, and other modalities. Ready to heal, give us a call.
Susan Clayton
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Using cutting edge therapies such as EMDR, along with my playful style and calming presence, healing is possible.
You feel frustrated that your old patterns keep repeating in new form. People tell you to love yourself first, but you have no idea how to get there. Maybe you have said or done things you are not proud of and can't let go of the feeling that you are "damaged" or "not good enough". You can see your past experiences with new perspective but can't shake the torment. You aren't sleeping well, eating well, or showing up as your best self much of the time.
Using cutting edge therapies such as EMDR, along with my playful style and calming presence, healing is possible.
You feel frustrated that your old patterns keep repeating in new form. People tell you to love yourself first, but you have no idea how to get there. Maybe you have said or done things you are not proud of and can't let go of the feeling that you are "damaged" or "not good enough". You can see your past experiences with new perspective but can't shake the torment. You aren't sleeping well, eating well, or showing up as your best self much of the time.
Roxanne Polk
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT, EMDR, IBP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Redondo Beach, CA 90277 (Online Only)
Professional Certifications: Complex Trauma, EMDR Certified Psychotherapist, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Integrative Body Psychotherapist (IBP) Trained Natural Lifemanship; Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MCBT).
It's never too late to start living the life you were created to live. Whether your goal is self empowerment, healing from childhood trauma, recovering from addiction/alcoholism, changing self-sabotaging behavior, or healthier relational patterns, the therapeutic relationship is significant in the growth process. Healing from past wounds creates a space for more satisfying relationships with self and others. ~ "Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us." David Richo...
Professional Certifications: Complex Trauma, EMDR Certified Psychotherapist, Equine Assisted Psychotherapy, Integrative Body Psychotherapist (IBP) Trained Natural Lifemanship; Mindfulness Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (MCBT).
It's never too late to start living the life you were created to live. Whether your goal is self empowerment, healing from childhood trauma, recovering from addiction/alcoholism, changing self-sabotaging behavior, or healthier relational patterns, the therapeutic relationship is significant in the growth process. Healing from past wounds creates a space for more satisfying relationships with self and others. ~ "Our wounds are often the openings into the best and most beautiful part of us." David Richo...
See more therapy options for Redondo Beach
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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.