EMDR Therapists in San Luis Obispo, CA
![Photo of Jennifer Kalusa, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/b4b4009b-943f-489b-88a0-d7a61df6ba24/1/320x400.jpeg)
My name is Jen Kalusa, I'm an LMFT, and I specialize in working with adults looking for support in navigating traumatic experiences, relationships, self-discovery, and complex emotions. I believe each person has within them what they need to heal and to have emotional health and healthy relationships. I use a trauma-informed approach and am trained in EMDR, Flash technique, and havening to support individuals who are stuck because of a past trauma. I use parts work and Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals to help them heal and move toward experiencing secure, meaningful connection.
My name is Jen Kalusa, I'm an LMFT, and I specialize in working with adults looking for support in navigating traumatic experiences, relationships, self-discovery, and complex emotions. I believe each person has within them what they need to heal and to have emotional health and healthy relationships. I use a trauma-informed approach and am trained in EMDR, Flash technique, and havening to support individuals who are stuck because of a past trauma. I use parts work and Emotionally Focused Therapy for individuals to help them heal and move toward experiencing secure, meaningful connection.
![Photo of Melissa Wheelock, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/43f8ce70-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Melissa Wheelock
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
If you find yourself on this site looking for a therapist, then the answer is yes! It is the right time for you to focus on healing for yourself! I specialize in working with people who are looking for help healing anxiety, depression, body image and relationship challenges. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself, and my background in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness and the well known trauma treatment called EMDR gives me a unique perspective about the challenges all humans face. I offer online and in person therapy and I can't wait to hear from you!
If you find yourself on this site looking for a therapist, then the answer is yes! It is the right time for you to focus on healing for yourself! I specialize in working with people who are looking for help healing anxiety, depression, body image and relationship challenges. The most important relationship you will ever have is with yourself, and my background in attachment theory, cognitive behavioral strategies, mindfulness and the well known trauma treatment called EMDR gives me a unique perspective about the challenges all humans face. I offer online and in person therapy and I can't wait to hear from you!
![Photo of Amber Hullibarger - Amber Hullibarger & Associates , LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d2e2fd1c-1a2c-409d-997a-536071fc5fea/2/320x400.jpeg)
Amber Hullibarger & Associates
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
We use EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, inner child work, guided imagery, somatic techniques, and couples therapy.
Welcome! I have a passion for empowering women to feel confident, capable, and connected. While exploring your past and present experiences we will learn how they interfere with who you want to be. I specialize in freeing women from anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, unhealthy relationships, family of origin issues, and difficult life transitions. My approach creates a safe environment to manage fears, negative self-talk, and societal pressures. I will help you shed old beliefs and patterns, discover your own desires and needs, and live the life you want to be living.
We use EMDR, CBT, mindfulness, inner child work, guided imagery, somatic techniques, and couples therapy.
Welcome! I have a passion for empowering women to feel confident, capable, and connected. While exploring your past and present experiences we will learn how they interfere with who you want to be. I specialize in freeing women from anxiety, depression, trauma, loss, unhealthy relationships, family of origin issues, and difficult life transitions. My approach creates a safe environment to manage fears, negative self-talk, and societal pressures. I will help you shed old beliefs and patterns, discover your own desires and needs, and live the life you want to be living.
![Photo of Justin Chernow, PhD, Psychologist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cdd392be-b523-4149-841e-9892011e8412/1/320x400.jpeg)
Justin Chernow
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
Through EMDR, MBSR, and other evidence-based approaches, we can create a predictable framework to address what happens in your mind and body when distressing events or emotions overwhelm you.
Are you finding it harder and harder to keep it all together? Perhaps you’re walking through life with a heavy sadness in your chest. Some days, maybe most days, you’re just going through the motions. Too often you feel fragile, and even little things can send your mood tumbling or leave you feeling shaken. The belief that you can live a balanced life seems farther and farther away. You’re feeling more alone, more distanced and disconnected from others. Yet, you don’t have to keep living a limited existence because of your depression, trauma, or anxiety.
Through EMDR, MBSR, and other evidence-based approaches, we can create a predictable framework to address what happens in your mind and body when distressing events or emotions overwhelm you.
Are you finding it harder and harder to keep it all together? Perhaps you’re walking through life with a heavy sadness in your chest. Some days, maybe most days, you’re just going through the motions. Too often you feel fragile, and even little things can send your mood tumbling or leave you feeling shaken. The belief that you can live a balanced life seems farther and farther away. You’re feeling more alone, more distanced and disconnected from others. Yet, you don’t have to keep living a limited existence because of your depression, trauma, or anxiety.
![Photo of Lori Maggelet Eister, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d304eee-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Lori Maggelet Eister
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Training in EMDR, MI and Compassionate Inquiry.
Hello! My name is Lori and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I have worked in the counseling profession for the past 20 or so years.
Training in EMDR, MI and Compassionate Inquiry.
Hello! My name is Lori and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family therapist. I have worked in the counseling profession for the past 20 or so years.
![Photo of Caroline Cerussi, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f1b00b09-08d5-4417-9c2a-160842577698/1/320x400.jpeg)
Caroline Cerussi
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I specialize in EMDR therapy, a powerful and evidence-based therapeutic approach.
Let’s be real, change is hard! But staying stuck in a cycle of pain and overthinking is harder. Are you feeling ready to cut through the noise and get to the heart of the matter? If you're someone who's been analyzing, overthinking, constantly wanting to feel better but struggling to know where to start, I'm here to help. I believe analysis and awareness is an important step, but we can’t always out-think our problems or solely focus on the source of the issue. I'm about action, results, and helping you move forward in a safe space. I'll combine empathy with a push to uncover your blind spots so you can make positive change.
I specialize in EMDR therapy, a powerful and evidence-based therapeutic approach.
Let’s be real, change is hard! But staying stuck in a cycle of pain and overthinking is harder. Are you feeling ready to cut through the noise and get to the heart of the matter? If you're someone who's been analyzing, overthinking, constantly wanting to feel better but struggling to know where to start, I'm here to help. I believe analysis and awareness is an important step, but we can’t always out-think our problems or solely focus on the source of the issue. I'm about action, results, and helping you move forward in a safe space. I'll combine empathy with a push to uncover your blind spots so you can make positive change.
![Photo of Rebecca Elizabeth Moir-Evans, AMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/88c8011b-7663-46c2-baa9-f5e35973bd4b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Rebecca Elizabeth Moir-Evans
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
I specialize in utilizing EMDR with children, teens and adults to help reset lives after small to LARGE traumas.
Life can be a challenge at times and finding a comfortable place to discuss it can feel difficult. Providing that space of safety and trust is where we will begin your journey towards your most enjoyable life. I work with children, teens, couples and adults, families using therapeutic modalities such as: CBT, DBT, EMDR and Gottman therapy. Through the use of EMDR, healing is possible of small traumas to Big Traumas. EMDR can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression and grief, to name a few of the many. DBT can help you control your emotions. Together, we can create a better functioning and satisfying life for you.
I specialize in utilizing EMDR with children, teens and adults to help reset lives after small to LARGE traumas.
Life can be a challenge at times and finding a comfortable place to discuss it can feel difficult. Providing that space of safety and trust is where we will begin your journey towards your most enjoyable life. I work with children, teens, couples and adults, families using therapeutic modalities such as: CBT, DBT, EMDR and Gottman therapy. Through the use of EMDR, healing is possible of small traumas to Big Traumas. EMDR can alleviate symptoms of anxiety, depression and grief, to name a few of the many. DBT can help you control your emotions. Together, we can create a better functioning and satisfying life for you.
![Photo of Breezy Simpson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/db7e6030-85e7-4c3c-b6ba-1e76211ad5d9/3/320x400.jpeg)
I offer a compassionate approach to help individuals overcome the challenges of depression, heal from trauma, and navigate life transitions. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR, a highly effective method of therapy proven to help individuals process and heal from trauma and distressing life events.
I offer a compassionate approach to help individuals overcome the challenges of depression, heal from trauma, and navigate life transitions. I draw from a variety of therapeutic modalities including EMDR, a highly effective method of therapy proven to help individuals process and heal from trauma and distressing life events.
![Photo of Chris Cooke, AMFT, MA, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist Associate](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/bb1ccd23-cb73-417b-8315-cc265f6aa560/2/320x400.jpeg)
Chris Cooke
Marriage & Family Therapist Associate, AMFT, MA, MS
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Johnny Cash says it best, "... it all goes down in the mind." My specialties are Couples Counseling & EMDR Therapy.
Johnny Cash says it best, "... it all goes down in the mind." My specialties are Couples Counseling & EMDR Therapy.
![Photo of Alexann Calabash Masiko-Meyer - Summer Sessions Counseling, LPCC, LCSW, CADC, ACSW, AMFT](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/6c88e79a-8997-4b67-9840-5ffda767a6fd/1/320x400.png)
Summer Sessions Counseling
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LPCC, LCSW, CADC, ACSW, AMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
From EMDR, OCD treatment, addressing, anxiety, depression, life adjustment, couples and individuals needs, we're here to support it all!.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, and at Summer Sessions, we hope to cut down on the searching component of your journey. We know that the road "here," may have been difficult and we are here to support and listen. The goal of our team is to reflect our community with our own backgrounds and areas of expertise and support you. Whether experiencing a life stressor, ongoing anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma or more, you deserve support and we can help. Please see our website, www.SummerSessionsCounseling.org, for available providers and booking (www.therapyportal.com/p/summersessions/appointments/availability/)
From EMDR, OCD treatment, addressing, anxiety, depression, life adjustment, couples and individuals needs, we're here to support it all!.
Finding a therapist can be difficult, and at Summer Sessions, we hope to cut down on the searching component of your journey. We know that the road "here," may have been difficult and we are here to support and listen. The goal of our team is to reflect our community with our own backgrounds and areas of expertise and support you. Whether experiencing a life stressor, ongoing anxiety, OCD, depression, trauma or more, you deserve support and we can help. Please see our website, www.SummerSessionsCounseling.org, for available providers and booking (www.therapyportal.com/p/summersessions/appointments/availability/)
![Photo of Ron Huxley, LMFT, EMDR, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4fda23fd-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Ron Huxley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
My areas of specialty include: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): A powerful technique for processing traumatic memories and reducing their impact on your daily life.
Faith-Based Therapy for Anxiety and Trauma! I have Telehealth (M-Th) and In-Person options available (W/Th only). Are you seeking faith-based therapy to address anxiety and trauma? With 30+ years of experience, I integrate traditional mental health tools with Christian Inner Healing principles to facilitate the transformation you desire. I will provide a unique blend of spiritual and psychological support. Together, we will work towards bringing hope and wellness to your life and relationships.
My areas of specialty include: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing): A powerful technique for processing traumatic memories and reducing their impact on your daily life.
Faith-Based Therapy for Anxiety and Trauma! I have Telehealth (M-Th) and In-Person options available (W/Th only). Are you seeking faith-based therapy to address anxiety and trauma? With 30+ years of experience, I integrate traditional mental health tools with Christian Inner Healing principles to facilitate the transformation you desire. I will provide a unique blend of spiritual and psychological support. Together, we will work towards bringing hope and wellness to your life and relationships.
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![Photo of John Roorda, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/99e6aa36-0713-4709-ae2c-f17707134681/2/320x400.jpeg)
Most of us have experienced events which still impact our present lives. EMDR is an highly effective form of psychotherapy which harnesses all we know about human attachment and neurobiology to heal trauma and to reprocess disturbing life experiences. Focused protocols are used, and no homework or detailed descriptions of the events are required.
Most of us have experienced events which still impact our present lives. EMDR is an highly effective form of psychotherapy which harnesses all we know about human attachment and neurobiology to heal trauma and to reprocess disturbing life experiences. Focused protocols are used, and no homework or detailed descriptions of the events are required.
![Photo of Leonard Manzella, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/cefb26c6-2f18-45ca-9506-87aec7f26842/2/320x400.jpeg)
It am particularly gratified to be offering EMDR for individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress.
Anxiety, Depression and Substance Abuse have reached epidemic proportions in today's world. They have become a way of life for many, causing undue anguish and pain, and jeopardizing the well-being of millions as well as the significant relationships in their lives. For over 25 years I have been helping people find a way back to themselves and on a path to living healthier and happier lives. It would be an honor to help you.
It am particularly gratified to be offering EMDR for individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress.
Anxiety, Depression and Substance Abuse have reached epidemic proportions in today's world. They have become a way of life for many, causing undue anguish and pain, and jeopardizing the well-being of millions as well as the significant relationships in their lives. For over 25 years I have been helping people find a way back to themselves and on a path to living healthier and happier lives. It would be an honor to help you.
![Photo of Dr. Adare Toral, PhD, MA, LPCC](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a947ab40-24de-4ba9-99cb-22e5285dc3f9/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Adare Toral
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, PhD, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Thank you for taking an interest in my practice. I am a trauma and forensic specialist with specialties in EMDR, somatic therapy, and threat assessment. My work centers on providing care for teens and adults with trauma through evidenced based practices. I utilize various therapeutic methods including art therapy, DBT, and somatic experiencing in order to provide the best care for each individual.
Thank you for taking an interest in my practice. I am a trauma and forensic specialist with specialties in EMDR, somatic therapy, and threat assessment. My work centers on providing care for teens and adults with trauma through evidenced based practices. I utilize various therapeutic methods including art therapy, DBT, and somatic experiencing in order to provide the best care for each individual.
![Photo of Josie Traub, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/1e6386db-a6d7-4698-b19b-63f858ffaca0/3/320x400.jpeg)
Josie Traub
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
My passion for improving the lives of others has extended to extensive EMDR training, which is the leading evidenced based treatment for individuals who have experienced traumatic events.
Often times there are aspects of ourselves that we ignore, or push away to avoid experiencing pain or emotions that can feel unbearable. Pushing away parts of ourselves has an impact on our ability to connect with who we are as a whole person. My approach in therapy involves looking at all of these parts within our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual zones and examining the way they interact with one another. I work in partnership with my clients to support them in discovering their unique path, what's important to them and the ability to access their truest self.
My passion for improving the lives of others has extended to extensive EMDR training, which is the leading evidenced based treatment for individuals who have experienced traumatic events.
Often times there are aspects of ourselves that we ignore, or push away to avoid experiencing pain or emotions that can feel unbearable. Pushing away parts of ourselves has an impact on our ability to connect with who we are as a whole person. My approach in therapy involves looking at all of these parts within our physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual zones and examining the way they interact with one another. I work in partnership with my clients to support them in discovering their unique path, what's important to them and the ability to access their truest self.
![Photo of Karen McGuffey, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/27f21904-543d-4c56-947c-6440bf0d824b/3/320x400.jpeg)
Karen McGuffey
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93405 (Online Only)
I draw from a holistic mind/ body approach utilizing mindfulness (DBT), cognitive behavioral (CBT), Psychodynamic and EMDR therapy.
Are you seeking a safe therapeutic environment where you can resolve issues, deal with internal emotional conflicts, heal and move forward in life. In my practice, I provide my clients with real help and real hope so they can recover and discover the person they were meant to be.
I draw from a holistic mind/ body approach utilizing mindfulness (DBT), cognitive behavioral (CBT), Psychodynamic and EMDR therapy.
Are you seeking a safe therapeutic environment where you can resolve issues, deal with internal emotional conflicts, heal and move forward in life. In my practice, I provide my clients with real help and real hope so they can recover and discover the person they were meant to be.
![Photo of Jessica Bany, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/23a2e2ac-2b5b-45e9-8b29-3d9b729587cb/1/320x400.jpeg)
I have 18 years of experience and am trained in EMDR.
Are you stuck and tired of your own B. S.? Do you feel yourself spiraling down? Or like you’re constantly treading water, barely staying afloat? You're smart, yet you haven’t been able to think your way through your problems, no matter how many hours you lay awake at night. You think you should have this all figured out and it seems like everyone does. You feel stuck in your past and uncertain about your future. You have goals you feel you will never achieve or have no idea what you want. Or maybe you know what you should do, yet you just can't do it. You feel disconnected, unmotivated, and worst of all unworthy of change.
I have 18 years of experience and am trained in EMDR.
Are you stuck and tired of your own B. S.? Do you feel yourself spiraling down? Or like you’re constantly treading water, barely staying afloat? You're smart, yet you haven’t been able to think your way through your problems, no matter how many hours you lay awake at night. You think you should have this all figured out and it seems like everyone does. You feel stuck in your past and uncertain about your future. You have goals you feel you will never achieve or have no idea what you want. Or maybe you know what you should do, yet you just can't do it. You feel disconnected, unmotivated, and worst of all unworthy of change.
![Photo of Paula Defrisco, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/2ff47e29-44d3-4d94-941e-a40bf6449448/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paula Defrisco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
Waitlist for new clients
I am EMDR certified.
I am a San Luis Obispo therapist working extensively with adolescents, college students, adults and couples who struggle with relationship issues or who have experienced sexual abuse or domestic violence in their lives. I have also helped numerous clients struggling with depression or anxiety. I am practical and supportive in my approach. My focus has always been trauma work, and I feel great respect and admiration for my clients who have allowed me to be part of their journey to gain feelings of empowerment in their lives. Please click on my website for more information about my practice.
I am EMDR certified.
I am a San Luis Obispo therapist working extensively with adolescents, college students, adults and couples who struggle with relationship issues or who have experienced sexual abuse or domestic violence in their lives. I have also helped numerous clients struggling with depression or anxiety. I am practical and supportive in my approach. My focus has always been trauma work, and I feel great respect and admiration for my clients who have allowed me to be part of their journey to gain feelings of empowerment in their lives. Please click on my website for more information about my practice.
![Photo of Karen A Akre, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4323bea2-b7d1-4d8b-83cd-3c0b7b4a4bb0/2/320x400.jpeg)
EMDR is a widely recognized psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from distressing life events and trauma.
Seeking therapy is a brave and vulnerable choice. My hope is you will feel my office provides a safe haven to be your authentic self. Working together we will ensure your treatment is tailored to your individual needs and goals. I will provide unconditional acceptance and support while you process through the emotions and circumstances which led you to seek out therapy.
EMDR is a widely recognized psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from distressing life events and trauma.
Seeking therapy is a brave and vulnerable choice. My hope is you will feel my office provides a safe haven to be your authentic self. Working together we will ensure your treatment is tailored to your individual needs and goals. I will provide unconditional acceptance and support while you process through the emotions and circumstances which led you to seek out therapy.
![Photo of Timothy Malone, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d1e23e59-ab42-4d1d-bec7-4bf5d89c9937/1/320x400.jpeg)
I utilize EMDR, Mindfulness, Art Therapy and Eco Therapy, amongst others to help those I work with move into a life more free.
Currently Accepting New Clients: I help people who are going through life transitions work through the things that hold them back. If you feel like you just can't get out off a rut, maybe because you have a negative belief or experience that holds you back. If you the "not good enough" or like messages in your head, I can help. The fact is, you do deserve to live the life you want. I can help you work through these messages so you can leave them behind. I have been there myself. It's challenging to move forward sometimes, but it's so worth it, and you don't have to go it alone. I can. help Please feel free to reach out.
I utilize EMDR, Mindfulness, Art Therapy and Eco Therapy, amongst others to help those I work with move into a life more free.
Currently Accepting New Clients: I help people who are going through life transitions work through the things that hold them back. If you feel like you just can't get out off a rut, maybe because you have a negative belief or experience that holds you back. If you the "not good enough" or like messages in your head, I can help. The fact is, you do deserve to live the life you want. I can help you work through these messages so you can leave them behind. I have been there myself. It's challenging to move forward sometimes, but it's so worth it, and you don't have to go it alone. I can. help Please feel free to reach out.
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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.