EMDR Therapists in Ontario, CA

Photo of Nicole Ethridge, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Nicole Ethridge
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91762  (Online Only)
I specialize in helping clients uncover and address limiting beliefs using EMDR and a personalized, multi-modal approach.
My ideal client feels stuck—whether due to anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma—and is starting to notice how negative core beliefs from their past are affecting their daily life. These beliefs, often formed in childhood, hold them back in ways they hadn’t fully realized. They want to break free from these patterns, build resilience, and live more authentically. They are ready for meaningful change and committed to working through the barriers that keep them from feeling empowered and fulfilled.
I specialize in helping clients uncover and address limiting beliefs using EMDR and a personalized, multi-modal approach.
My ideal client feels stuck—whether due to anxiety, depression, or unresolved trauma—and is starting to notice how negative core beliefs from their past are affecting their daily life. These beliefs, often formed in childhood, hold them back in ways they hadn’t fully realized. They want to break free from these patterns, build resilience, and live more authentically. They are ready for meaningful change and committed to working through the barriers that keep them from feeling empowered and fulfilled.
(562) 620-5114 View (562) 620-5114
Photo of Ilse Aerts, MS, LMFT, LPCC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ilse Aerts
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, LPCC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Ontario, CA 91764
I utilize techniques from evidence based theories including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused interventions, person centered strategies, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) that are tailored to your specific needs.
Are you sad, worried, stressed or anxious? Have you experienced trauma? Are you overwhelmed as a partner, parent or caregiver? Don’t keep trying to do it alone. We’ll explore where grief and loss, parenting, or the challenges life has thrown you might be showing up in how you’re feeling. Maybe you’ve moved from a different state or country and are trying to cope with the Southern California way of life. I understand that adjustment, and how hard it can be to adapt to new expectations and getting comfortable with a different language because I’ve done it myself.
I utilize techniques from evidence based theories including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), solution focused interventions, person centered strategies, EMDR, and Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) that are tailored to your specific needs.
Are you sad, worried, stressed or anxious? Have you experienced trauma? Are you overwhelmed as a partner, parent or caregiver? Don’t keep trying to do it alone. We’ll explore where grief and loss, parenting, or the challenges life has thrown you might be showing up in how you’re feeling. Maybe you’ve moved from a different state or country and are trying to cope with the Southern California way of life. I understand that adjustment, and how hard it can be to adapt to new expectations and getting comfortable with a different language because I’ve done it myself.
(951) 977-4965 View (951) 977-4965
Photo of Charles Nesbitt, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Charles Nesbitt
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761
I am a certified Acceleration Resolution Therapist and am trained in EMDR.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist experienced and passionate about helping people adjust to the inevitable changes we all face in life. I'm also trained to help those struggling with addiction/alcoholism. I have personal experience with cancer and have over 18 years in addiction recovery. I truly believe my own life experiences help me connect with those who are similar to me. I typically work with men and women struggling with cancer or addiction/alcohol issues, as well as those struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
I am a certified Acceleration Resolution Therapist and am trained in EMDR.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist experienced and passionate about helping people adjust to the inevitable changes we all face in life. I'm also trained to help those struggling with addiction/alcoholism. I have personal experience with cancer and have over 18 years in addiction recovery. I truly believe my own life experiences help me connect with those who are similar to me. I typically work with men and women struggling with cancer or addiction/alcohol issues, as well as those struggling with trauma, anxiety, depression, and life transitions.
(951) 419-4572 View (951) 419-4572
Photo of Milia Mahfoud Staggs, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Milia Mahfoud Staggs
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ontario, CA 91761
I use a variety of approaches that are tailored to each client, such as EMDR, DBT, and EFT.
I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals in therapy by providing a safe place for them to learn, grow, and be themselves. I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Areas of treatment I specialize in include depression, anxiety, anger issues, parenting, grief and loss, family conflicts, codependency, spirituality, and IVF and infertility.
I use a variety of approaches that are tailored to each client, such as EMDR, DBT, and EFT.
I am passionate about helping people achieve their goals in therapy by providing a safe place for them to learn, grow, and be themselves. I understand that seeking therapy can be a courageous step, and I am here to support you every step of the way. Areas of treatment I specialize in include depression, anxiety, anger issues, parenting, grief and loss, family conflicts, codependency, spirituality, and IVF and infertility.
(909) 500-4285 View (909) 500-4285
Photo of Tiffany Moncrease, LPCC
Tiffany Moncrease
Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
Using EMDR, dialectical behavioral, and trauma-informed therapy, Let me support you as you learn stress resiliency and reduce visceral reactions so that they no longer are gut wrenching or extreme emotions.
Hi there, I'm Tiffany . Does this sound like you? Something happened to you (or someone you love) a month ago, a year ago, years ago. You have tried everything you know to "move on" yet the mere thought of it brings tears, makes you wince inwardly, or makes getting out of bed daunting? I am here to support you as you process your experience, and find ways to alleviate some of the suffering.
Using EMDR, dialectical behavioral, and trauma-informed therapy, Let me support you as you learn stress resiliency and reduce visceral reactions so that they no longer are gut wrenching or extreme emotions.
Hi there, I'm Tiffany . Does this sound like you? Something happened to you (or someone you love) a month ago, a year ago, years ago. You have tried everything you know to "move on" yet the mere thought of it brings tears, makes you wince inwardly, or makes getting out of bed daunting? I am here to support you as you process your experience, and find ways to alleviate some of the suffering.
(909) 413-4934 View (909) 413-4934
Photo of Delores Picou - Delores Picou, LMFT, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Delores Picou, LMFT
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
I am EMDR method trained, most utilized for PTSD/Depression and Anxiety.
Depression, anxiety, infidelity, sexual abuse and behavioral issues can lead to feeling depressed, frustrated stuck in a cycle, and experiencing difficulty finding your way. I commend you for taking the first step towards seeking assistance. As your Therapist, you will receive professional Therapeutic guidance, in a confidential safe setting. "Helping you to move forward on your journey in life is my reward". Women, men, couples and families often face tremendous stress, managing life responsibilities and relationships.
I am EMDR method trained, most utilized for PTSD/Depression and Anxiety.
Depression, anxiety, infidelity, sexual abuse and behavioral issues can lead to feeling depressed, frustrated stuck in a cycle, and experiencing difficulty finding your way. I commend you for taking the first step towards seeking assistance. As your Therapist, you will receive professional Therapeutic guidance, in a confidential safe setting. "Helping you to move forward on your journey in life is my reward". Women, men, couples and families often face tremendous stress, managing life responsibilities and relationships.
(909) 345-5832 View (909) 345-5832
Photo of Denise Harlan, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Denise Harlan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
I integrate mindfulness and an Eye Movement Desensitization Approach ( EMDR), along with Cognitive Behavioral Theory and several other approaches to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Do you feel anxious, worried, or depressed and overwhelmed with your life? Are you struggling to feel happy? Do you feel past trauma is affecting your ability to heal? Is it hard to be kind to yourself or to tell yourself that you are doing all that you can? Together, we can build a safe place so that we can find what's not working for you and get you back to a place where your mind, body, and spirit feel at ease. We'll use a mindfulness approach and identify those negative thoughts and come up with a balanced adaptive thought that can help you feel better.
I integrate mindfulness and an Eye Movement Desensitization Approach ( EMDR), along with Cognitive Behavioral Theory and several other approaches to help you develop a stronger relationship with yourself.
Do you feel anxious, worried, or depressed and overwhelmed with your life? Are you struggling to feel happy? Do you feel past trauma is affecting your ability to heal? Is it hard to be kind to yourself or to tell yourself that you are doing all that you can? Together, we can build a safe place so that we can find what's not working for you and get you back to a place where your mind, body, and spirit feel at ease. We'll use a mindfulness approach and identify those negative thoughts and come up with a balanced adaptive thought that can help you feel better.
(909) 674-1581 View (909) 674-1581
Photo of Dr. Camille Sauder, DMFT, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Dr. Camille Sauder
Marriage & Family Therapist, DMFT, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91762  (Online Only)
I primarily work from an attachment-based perspective, using psychodynamic therapy and incorporating EMDR and CBT.
I'm glad you are here. Seeking the help of a therapist is such a brave first step. Are you hurting, overwhelmed, unsatisfied in your relationships, or unhappy with the way you cope with the difficulties of life? I am here to help. My top priority is to create a safe place for you as we work together to uncover what’s at the root of the struggles you find yourself in. By uncovering what's at the root of these struggles, you have the opportunity to create the long-lasting change you want by healing what is leading to your struggles in the first place.
I primarily work from an attachment-based perspective, using psychodynamic therapy and incorporating EMDR and CBT.
I'm glad you are here. Seeking the help of a therapist is such a brave first step. Are you hurting, overwhelmed, unsatisfied in your relationships, or unhappy with the way you cope with the difficulties of life? I am here to help. My top priority is to create a safe place for you as we work together to uncover what’s at the root of the struggles you find yourself in. By uncovering what's at the root of these struggles, you have the opportunity to create the long-lasting change you want by healing what is leading to your struggles in the first place.
(423) 653-1423 View (423) 653-1423
Photo of Meg Brown, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meg Brown
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
In our work together, we will utilize a mix of evidenced-based modalities, such as CBT, DBT, IFS and EMDR, to increase mind-body connection and alleviate distressing feelings, thoughts and sensations.
First of all, I am so glad you are here! I recognize the incredible courage it requires to take the first step and reach out to a therapist. Life can feel overwhelming, complicated, confusing …. But there is hope. You deserve a space to feel seen, accepted, and understood. While there are times in life where you may’ve had to shrink away from emotional or physical pain or fear, I believe healing comes from reconnecting with those places in our body, mind and heart that hold pain. The parts of us that are wounded need attention and love to heal. I will empower you to access the resources you have within yourself.
In our work together, we will utilize a mix of evidenced-based modalities, such as CBT, DBT, IFS and EMDR, to increase mind-body connection and alleviate distressing feelings, thoughts and sensations.
First of all, I am so glad you are here! I recognize the incredible courage it requires to take the first step and reach out to a therapist. Life can feel overwhelming, complicated, confusing …. But there is hope. You deserve a space to feel seen, accepted, and understood. While there are times in life where you may’ve had to shrink away from emotional or physical pain or fear, I believe healing comes from reconnecting with those places in our body, mind and heart that hold pain. The parts of us that are wounded need attention and love to heal. I will empower you to access the resources you have within yourself.
(601) 539-9681 View (601) 539-9681
Photo of Mary Montero, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mary Montero
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
Hello, I'm glad you're here! In our work together we will talk, explore your challenges, process trauma, collaborate on solutions, and probably laugh. In over 23 years of working with individuals, couples, families and organizations, I have developed a therapy style that combines several approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, narrative, and EMDR.
Hello, I'm glad you're here! In our work together we will talk, explore your challenges, process trauma, collaborate on solutions, and probably laugh. In over 23 years of working with individuals, couples, families and organizations, I have developed a therapy style that combines several approaches, including psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, solution-focused, narrative, and EMDR.
(909) 281-8485 View (909) 281-8485
Photo of Yvonne Burgos - Burgos Psychological Services, PsyD, Psychologist
Burgos Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ontario, CA 91762  (Online Only)
I am trained in DBT, EMDR, and IFS- EMDR informed.
Are you tired of your wounded child not feeling heard or taking over your body to leave you unsatisfied in your relationships or environment? I can help you heal those traumas that linger from your childhood. I will help you create insight into why you become triggered by certain people and react in certain ways. You will learn to self-soothe and release what no longer serves you. We will discuss how to set appropriate boundaries with people and gain insight into your own behavior that may be getting in the way. I invite you to call me to free yourself from the pain that is plaguing your life.
I am trained in DBT, EMDR, and IFS- EMDR informed.
Are you tired of your wounded child not feeling heard or taking over your body to leave you unsatisfied in your relationships or environment? I can help you heal those traumas that linger from your childhood. I will help you create insight into why you become triggered by certain people and react in certain ways. You will learn to self-soothe and release what no longer serves you. We will discuss how to set appropriate boundaries with people and gain insight into your own behavior that may be getting in the way. I invite you to call me to free yourself from the pain that is plaguing your life.
(909) 764-3939 View (909) 764-3939
Photo of Stephanie Sorady-Iverson, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stephanie Sorady-Iverson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
Through some virtual EMDR sessions with me, you will learn coping strategies and break free from limiting beliefs.
If you’re reading this, you are likely someone who is ready to take steps toward healing and transformation – congratulations! Imagine finally feeling that heaviness and anxiety lifting, and the trauma feeling like it’s not running the show anymore. Wouldn’t that feel fantastic?! I know it’s nerve-wracking to start therapy…and hear me out - therapy works.
Through some virtual EMDR sessions with me, you will learn coping strategies and break free from limiting beliefs.
If you’re reading this, you are likely someone who is ready to take steps toward healing and transformation – congratulations! Imagine finally feeling that heaviness and anxiety lifting, and the trauma feeling like it’s not running the show anymore. Wouldn’t that feel fantastic?! I know it’s nerve-wracking to start therapy…and hear me out - therapy works.
(909) 655-5758 View (909) 655-5758
Photo of Carol Kosta, LPCC, Counselor
Carol Kosta
Counselor, LPCC
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
My name is Carol Kosta. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I hold a master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch Los Angeles and I am a certified EMDR practitioner. Over the last 20 years I have have worked as a therapist with diverse populations in private practice, community based programs and facilities that treat mental health, eating disorders and substance use disorders. I primarily use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to help clients recover from trauma and other life distressing experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression and panic disorders.
My name is Carol Kosta. I am a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC). I hold a master's degree in Clinical Psychology from Antioch Los Angeles and I am a certified EMDR practitioner. Over the last 20 years I have have worked as a therapist with diverse populations in private practice, community based programs and facilities that treat mental health, eating disorders and substance use disorders. I primarily use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to help clients recover from trauma and other life distressing experiences, including PTSD, anxiety, depression and panic disorders.
(909) 531-4295 View (909) 531-4295
Photo of Debbie Zenga, PsyD, Psychologist
Debbie Zenga
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
As an EMDR training psychotherapist, I am here to help bring relief and resolution.
Hi my name is Dr. Debbie, I am a licensed clinical psychologist with an emphasis in Integrative psychotherapy which includes Buddhist, Christian psychology, spiritual and existential psychology.
As an EMDR training psychotherapist, I am here to help bring relief and resolution.
Hi my name is Dr. Debbie, I am a licensed clinical psychologist with an emphasis in Integrative psychotherapy which includes Buddhist, Christian psychology, spiritual and existential psychology.
(909) 830-4800 View (909) 830-4800
Photo of Anna Nguyen, PsyD, Psychologist
Anna Nguyen
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
I use multiple approaches depending on your preference, including client-centered, positive psychology, CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Hello, my name is Anna Nguyen and I am a California licensed psychologist with 6 years experience in clinical work. I was a research and development engineer for 20 years; I became interested in mental health 11 years ago and it has been a humbling experience journey through which I come to have an appreciation for the human resilience and strength.
I use multiple approaches depending on your preference, including client-centered, positive psychology, CBT, DBT, and EMDR.
Hello, my name is Anna Nguyen and I am a California licensed psychologist with 6 years experience in clinical work. I was a research and development engineer for 20 years; I became interested in mental health 11 years ago and it has been a humbling experience journey through which I come to have an appreciation for the human resilience and strength.
(858) 630-4473 View (858) 630-4473
Photo of Monique Gary Lcsw, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Monique Gary Lcsw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
We practice Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) a recognized treatment modality for PTSD, Anxiety disorders and Performance Enhancement.
Are emotional roadblocks hindering you from being your authentic self? Are you overwhelmed by past traumatic experiences? Have you always taken care of everyone but yourself? My ideal client is ready to release that mental/emotional pause button (sadness, anger, regret etc.) and engage with life. This includes individuals, couples, family units, or a parent who notices the emotional challenges/struggles of their child and they are seeking help for them. I understand that ones quality of life starts with being emotionally and mentally sound. My practice has extensive experience working with mood, anxiety, adjustment, somatoform, psychotic and impulse control disorders.
We practice Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) a recognized treatment modality for PTSD, Anxiety disorders and Performance Enhancement.
Are emotional roadblocks hindering you from being your authentic self? Are you overwhelmed by past traumatic experiences? Have you always taken care of everyone but yourself? My ideal client is ready to release that mental/emotional pause button (sadness, anger, regret etc.) and engage with life. This includes individuals, couples, family units, or a parent who notices the emotional challenges/struggles of their child and they are seeking help for them. I understand that ones quality of life starts with being emotionally and mentally sound. My practice has extensive experience working with mood, anxiety, adjustment, somatoform, psychotic and impulse control disorders.
(562) 545-4690 View (562) 545-4690
Photo of Ava Kate Oleson, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ava Kate Oleson
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
ANXIETY and Depression are absolutely treatable. I know this from personal and professional experience. Emotional ups and downs make coping difficult, and keeping up a brave face next to impossible. With specialized training in EMDR, CBT, and CPT, the approaches I use target emotional pain, distorted thinking and unproductive behavior, while helping you heal. Whether filled with anxious thoughts, paralyzed by trauma, or the loss of something or someone precious - there is absolutely life after heartache, pain, and disappointment. I'd love to walk this journey with you.
ANXIETY and Depression are absolutely treatable. I know this from personal and professional experience. Emotional ups and downs make coping difficult, and keeping up a brave face next to impossible. With specialized training in EMDR, CBT, and CPT, the approaches I use target emotional pain, distorted thinking and unproductive behavior, while helping you heal. Whether filled with anxious thoughts, paralyzed by trauma, or the loss of something or someone precious - there is absolutely life after heartache, pain, and disappointment. I'd love to walk this journey with you.
(562) 222-0530 View (562) 222-0530
Photo of Deborah Reese, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah Reese
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91764
I use a client-centered approach as well as EMDR.
Hello. My name is Deborah and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in the fields of child welfare, hospice, and medical social work for the past twenty years. I use a variety of techniques to help support my clients.
I use a client-centered approach as well as EMDR.
Hello. My name is Deborah and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker. I have worked in the fields of child welfare, hospice, and medical social work for the past twenty years. I use a variety of techniques to help support my clients.
(510) 726-6626 View (510) 726-6626
Photo of Kalila Jimenez, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Kalila Jimenez
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
I also offer EMDR.
Sometimes life becomes overwhelming. Sometimes, tragedies and traumas mercilessly take their toll on us and leave us faced with the responsibility to pursue healing. I can be there for you - the person struggling to get out from under the cloud of stress, anxiety, depression, or feeling like you just aren't "good enough." I can be there for the parent who is struggling to manage or the child/teen who has already endured scary and troubling challenges.
I also offer EMDR.
Sometimes life becomes overwhelming. Sometimes, tragedies and traumas mercilessly take their toll on us and leave us faced with the responsibility to pursue healing. I can be there for you - the person struggling to get out from under the cloud of stress, anxiety, depression, or feeling like you just aren't "good enough." I can be there for the parent who is struggling to manage or the child/teen who has already endured scary and troubling challenges.
(562) 418-5667 View (562) 418-5667
Photo of Chelsea Young, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Chelsea Young
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Ontario, CA 91761  (Online Only)
Hello! I'm Chelsea, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with almost 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling from San Francisco State University, and I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a powerful therapeutic approach for trauma resolution. I provide virtual therapy to clients throughout California and I create a welcoming and collaborative space for you to safely explore your pain and to achieve healing.
Hello! I'm Chelsea, a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with almost 10 years of experience helping individuals navigate the complexities of trauma. I hold a Master’s degree in Counseling from San Francisco State University, and I'm trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), a powerful therapeutic approach for trauma resolution. I provide virtual therapy to clients throughout California and I create a welcoming and collaborative space for you to safely explore your pain and to achieve healing.
(562) 620-8579 View (562) 620-8579
1
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.