EMDR Therapists in Ankeny, IA
![Photo of Leanna Brady - Red Couch Counseling LLC., MEd, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3fa7b9c1-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I actively use interventions specific to your specific needs which includes specialty training in Family Systems, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Attachment, Somatic Therapy, Expressive Therapy and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
I actively use interventions specific to your specific needs which includes specialty training in Family Systems, Trauma, Anxiety, Depression, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) Attachment, Somatic Therapy, Expressive Therapy and Parent Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Currently accepting new clients. I have been a practicing licensed therapist for over 27 years. I work with adults, adolescents, couples, families, and children. I possess a comprehensive expertise in many fields, namely; anxiety, depression, trauma and stress. My Goal is to work WITH you to create a therapeutic space that is supportive and safe. I am knowledgeable about the biological, emotional, and relational aspects of mental health and have both respect and compassion for the complexity of these factors in your life.
![Photo of Angie Appelgate, MSW, LISW, CDWF, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/84a06b4a-8171-432f-9770-fa1ab58dc6a0/1/320x400.jpeg)
Angie Appelgate
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, CDWF
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I am certified in EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing therapy which helps individuals heal from adverse experiences.
As a therapist and group facilitator, I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I provide a caring and supportive relationship to clients to help them grow and change in positive ways. I enjoy working with families to create more productive and supportive family dynamics. I love working with clients to help empower them to process and heal from adverse and traumatic life experiences, change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors, and explore and overcome shame messages that are keeping them from living a wholehearted life as well as foster hope and move towards more authentic living.
I am certified in EMDR- Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing therapy which helps individuals heal from adverse experiences.
As a therapist and group facilitator, I work with adolescents, adults, couples, and families. I provide a caring and supportive relationship to clients to help them grow and change in positive ways. I enjoy working with families to create more productive and supportive family dynamics. I love working with clients to help empower them to process and heal from adverse and traumatic life experiences, change unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors, and explore and overcome shame messages that are keeping them from living a wholehearted life as well as foster hope and move towards more authentic living.
![Photo of Eliza Lower, LISW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/c4ff97af-fa4e-4522-8ca3-84b4a9cd1f8b/1/320x400.jpeg)
Sometimes life is really hard and having someone to talk to, can make all the difference. Hello! My name is Eliza and I look forward to supporting you in your therapy journey. With over 15 years of experience as a mental health therapist, I specialize in working with adults and teens on challenges with everyday life stressors and changes, anxiety, trauma, body/image and grief/loss as well as therapy for other mental health providers. I am trained in a variety of modalities including EMDR, TF-CBT and DBT.
Sometimes life is really hard and having someone to talk to, can make all the difference. Hello! My name is Eliza and I look forward to supporting you in your therapy journey. With over 15 years of experience as a mental health therapist, I specialize in working with adults and teens on challenges with everyday life stressors and changes, anxiety, trauma, body/image and grief/loss as well as therapy for other mental health providers. I am trained in a variety of modalities including EMDR, TF-CBT and DBT.
![Photo of Tony Parmenter - Emdr + Integrative Healing For Complex Trauma, LMHC, LAADC, LCMHC, LCPC, EMDRIA, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/96ea8181-4187-4dc3-84c4-2d1dc1380624/2/320x400.jpeg)
Tony Parmenter - Emdr + Integrative Healing For Complex Trauma
Counselor, LMHC, LAADC, LCMHC, LCPC, EMDRIA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023 (Online Only)
I provide EMDR and other integrative therapies for healing complex and generational trauma and am currently accepting people interested in individual weekly therapy and half- and full-day intensives. My work is focused on helping your nervous system and inner child find freedom from wounds that are so deep, you may have never been aware of them. I have witnessed many of clients alleviate long-standing struggles/challenges related to Complex PTSD, unresolved childhood trauma, and related addiction issues through this work. I am the creator of TF-EMDR for nature-based work & MARS.
I provide EMDR and other integrative therapies for healing complex and generational trauma and am currently accepting people interested in individual weekly therapy and half- and full-day intensives. My work is focused on helping your nervous system and inner child find freedom from wounds that are so deep, you may have never been aware of them. I have witnessed many of clients alleviate long-standing struggles/challenges related to Complex PTSD, unresolved childhood trauma, and related addiction issues through this work. I am the creator of TF-EMDR for nature-based work & MARS.
![Photo of Leisha Ristau, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/86e5d2ad-316d-4e28-8b35-975f35b90a69/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am also an EMDR trained therapist and utilize CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, IFS/parts work, and more.
With a passion for fostering mental well-being and a commitment to personalized care, I have embarked on a transformative journey to opening a practice in Ankeny, IA called Nurturing Therapy Services. Any new or previous clients can reach out.
I am also an EMDR trained therapist and utilize CBT, Acceptance & Commitment Therapy, IFS/parts work, and more.
With a passion for fostering mental well-being and a commitment to personalized care, I have embarked on a transformative journey to opening a practice in Ankeny, IA called Nurturing Therapy Services. Any new or previous clients can reach out.
![Photo of Hannah Overstake, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/52209106-80b2-4055-8f0a-9015b3989e15/2/320x400.jpeg)
I have experience working with people of all ages, but my passion and expertise are with teens and young adults. I have training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR. I enjoy working with a wide range of client's on a wide-range of issues: depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, behavioral/school problems, and issues within the family system. My goal is to help my clients learn skills that they can implement and live up to their greatest potential. I look forward to hearing from you.
I have experience working with people of all ages, but my passion and expertise are with teens and young adults. I have training in trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy and EMDR. I enjoy working with a wide range of client's on a wide-range of issues: depression, anxiety, trauma, ADHD, behavioral/school problems, and issues within the family system. My goal is to help my clients learn skills that they can implement and live up to their greatest potential. I look forward to hearing from you.
![Photo of Marie Villhauer, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/55aa08ee-4036-4a82-ac6e-5aa6e9eaaad5/2/320x400.jpeg)
Accepting clients for 9am-3pm appointments. My clients, friends, and family would describe me as their personal cheerleader. My goal as your therapist is to help you explore the parts of you that feel burdened by wounds from relationships in your adult and young years. I want to encourage you every step of the way. I utilize Internal Family Systems, EMDR, IFIO couples/relationship therapies to help you reach your goals. I completed level two training in April 2024.
Accepting clients for 9am-3pm appointments. My clients, friends, and family would describe me as their personal cheerleader. My goal as your therapist is to help you explore the parts of you that feel burdened by wounds from relationships in your adult and young years. I want to encourage you every step of the way. I utilize Internal Family Systems, EMDR, IFIO couples/relationship therapies to help you reach your goals. I completed level two training in April 2024.
![Photo of Marissa Schuster, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/e4a2e806-6928-4625-ad08-68b3968f64be/3/320x400.jpeg)
I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Narrative Theory.
Hello! I’m Marissa. I am here to offer you a safe space to heal and overcome the lasting effects of trauma. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of guiding individuals through the challenging journey of healing from traumatic experiences. I am here to support you on your journey, no matter what challenges you face. Whether you're struggling with trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, religious trauma, perinatal mental health (for new moms and dads!), depression, or anxiety, I’m here to listen and provide guidance. Together, we can create a brighter future.
I use Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), Mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Solution-Focused, and Narrative Theory.
Hello! I’m Marissa. I am here to offer you a safe space to heal and overcome the lasting effects of trauma. Throughout my career, I have had the privilege of guiding individuals through the challenging journey of healing from traumatic experiences. I am here to support you on your journey, no matter what challenges you face. Whether you're struggling with trauma, life transitions, grief and loss, religious trauma, perinatal mental health (for new moms and dads!), depression, or anxiety, I’m here to listen and provide guidance. Together, we can create a brighter future.
![Photo of Jill R Sudak-Allison, PhD, LMHC, LMFT, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f8bd2896-9f9f-467d-993a-0ebb25494b29/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Trauma Informed, and Person-Centered.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jill Sudak-Allison. I have been a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist for over 30 years. I have worked in outpatient medical clinics, private practice, and university settings. My therapeutic style is supportive, holistic and transparent. It is my goal to offer a safe, empathetic, caring, non-judgmental, and open environment for you to explore issues that cause you distress. My passion is to help you find your way back to being yourself, resolving your problems, experiencing peace of mind and joy in your life again.
I am trained in EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Family Systems, Trauma Informed, and Person-Centered.
Hello, my name is Dr. Jill Sudak-Allison. I have been a licensed mental health counselor and marriage and family therapist for over 30 years. I have worked in outpatient medical clinics, private practice, and university settings. My therapeutic style is supportive, holistic and transparent. It is my goal to offer a safe, empathetic, caring, non-judgmental, and open environment for you to explore issues that cause you distress. My passion is to help you find your way back to being yourself, resolving your problems, experiencing peace of mind and joy in your life again.
![Photo of Krystyna Thompson, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/45f9872e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Krystyna Thompson
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, MS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50021
Currently accepting individual clients! My name is Krystyna Thompson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a clinician trained in EMDR. I work with couples, individuals, and families on a variety of emotional and relational issues. As a therapist, it is important to me that I partner with my clients to create an individualized plan that fits best to encourage recovery. Each person is different and I hope to help you overcome the obstacles that have stopped you from feeling happy, fulfilled, and joyous in your life. You have taken the first step in achieving these goals, so congratulations!
Currently accepting individual clients! My name is Krystyna Thompson and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, as well as a clinician trained in EMDR. I work with couples, individuals, and families on a variety of emotional and relational issues. As a therapist, it is important to me that I partner with my clients to create an individualized plan that fits best to encourage recovery. Each person is different and I hope to help you overcome the obstacles that have stopped you from feeling happy, fulfilled, and joyous in your life. You have taken the first step in achieving these goals, so congratulations!
![Photo of Donald K Gilbert - New Life Counseling, MS, PhD, LMHC, BCPC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/0a649e62-94d0-4a27-afc4-2888f65627c8/2/320x400.jpeg)
Our counselors also hold certifications in addictions counseling, EMDR, speaking, training, and coaching.
Our New Life professionals provide outpatient counseling services for adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups at our locations in Ankeny and West Des Moines. Our professional training, experience, faith, and commitment to honoring each individual, enables us to offer counseling that empowers you with the tools, techniques, and confidence necessary to improve your life. We offer support and guidance in this journey through life's many changes and transitions as we partner together to work toward meeting your goals. Visit our counselor's page on our website to learn more about our therapists and their areas of focus.
Our counselors also hold certifications in addictions counseling, EMDR, speaking, training, and coaching.
Our New Life professionals provide outpatient counseling services for adolescents, adults, couples, families, and groups at our locations in Ankeny and West Des Moines. Our professional training, experience, faith, and commitment to honoring each individual, enables us to offer counseling that empowers you with the tools, techniques, and confidence necessary to improve your life. We offer support and guidance in this journey through life's many changes and transitions as we partner together to work toward meeting your goals. Visit our counselor's page on our website to learn more about our therapists and their areas of focus.
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![Photo of Erika Smith, LISW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/4d66a5b7-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in providing EMDR Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trauma focused approaches.
I am a clinical social worker providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are seeking a safe and welcoming environment. I believe therapy should be a collaborative approach to reaching goals and bettering your life. I value strong therapeutic relationships so that you may find it easier to trust and gain the skills you need. I want to help you strengthen your own self-awareness and see that therapy is a place for you to improve the steps you are taking to reach your goals.
I am trained in providing EMDR Therapy as well as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and trauma focused approaches.
I am a clinical social worker providing therapy to children, adolescents and adults who are seeking a safe and welcoming environment. I believe therapy should be a collaborative approach to reaching goals and bettering your life. I value strong therapeutic relationships so that you may find it easier to trust and gain the skills you need. I want to help you strengthen your own self-awareness and see that therapy is a place for you to improve the steps you are taking to reach your goals.
![Photo of Sarah Andrews, LMFT, MS, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/a677535b-9abf-4ee5-8937-c1b6fe953d68/3/320x400.jpeg)
I enjoy working with clients through life's transitions and hardships by using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Therapies and more; and I also offer Faith-based counseling, if client desires it.
I am accepting new (daytime) clients at this time. My goal is to help others learn how they can develop peace, both with themselves and with their circumstances. I believe in client-specific techniques that empower individuals to develop the tools necessary to achieve emotional, relational, spiritual, and physical health and well-being.
I enjoy working with clients through life's transitions and hardships by using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Somatic Therapies and more; and I also offer Faith-based counseling, if client desires it.
I am accepting new (daytime) clients at this time. My goal is to help others learn how they can develop peace, both with themselves and with their circumstances. I believe in client-specific techniques that empower individuals to develop the tools necessary to achieve emotional, relational, spiritual, and physical health and well-being.
![Photo of Amy Halls, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/47e2e841-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am trained in EMDR and Transforming Intentional Touch to help treat shock trauma, attachment ruptures and childhood trauma.
My name is Amy Halls and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I believe that everyone experiences pain and distress in their life, and there are times when you need someone to walk beside you and help you navigate. I want each client to have a safe, non-judgmental and understanding environment to explore stressors, relationships, and life transitions. I use a very collaborative approach by listening to my clients, establishing their goals together, and then providing insight, wisdom, humor (where appropriate), techniques and skills to help them overcome and move through their difficulties.
I am trained in EMDR and Transforming Intentional Touch to help treat shock trauma, attachment ruptures and childhood trauma.
My name is Amy Halls and I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I believe that everyone experiences pain and distress in their life, and there are times when you need someone to walk beside you and help you navigate. I want each client to have a safe, non-judgmental and understanding environment to explore stressors, relationships, and life transitions. I use a very collaborative approach by listening to my clients, establishing their goals together, and then providing insight, wisdom, humor (where appropriate), techniques and skills to help them overcome and move through their difficulties.
![Photo of Brittany Kay Miller, LISW, LMSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/d22a8651-4d83-4897-b1ac-7f35bf470cc1/1/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany Kay Miller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LISW, LMSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023 (Online Only)
To guide my work with clients, I rely on the modalities of CBT, DBT, SE, and EMDR.
I wholeheartedly believe that as human beings, we all deserve to experience what it's like to have someone bear witness to our story and not look away. I see my role as your therapist to be that person: someone who can hold space for your story and help you to navigate your own healing. My goal as your therapist is to allow you to express your feelings in a non-judgmental and safe space, as well as provide you with skills to improve your overall quality of life.
To guide my work with clients, I rely on the modalities of CBT, DBT, SE, and EMDR.
I wholeheartedly believe that as human beings, we all deserve to experience what it's like to have someone bear witness to our story and not look away. I see my role as your therapist to be that person: someone who can hold space for your story and help you to navigate your own healing. My goal as your therapist is to allow you to express your feelings in a non-judgmental and safe space, as well as provide you with skills to improve your overall quality of life.
![Photo of Jordan Woolman, MSW, LISW, PMH-C, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/50f05971-147b-42ab-9cce-ef14a67614c3/1/320x400.jpeg)
Jordan Woolman
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LISW, PMH-C
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
I am certified in perinatal mental health disorders and I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) Therapy.
I strive to help others feel empowered and to be able cope with their mental health and life in general. We will work together so that you can begin to heal, learn how to keep growing and improving yourself and work towards your goals. Everyone needs additional support at times in their lives that is neutral, non-judgmental, and unbiased to help get through life's trials & tribulations. My goal is to meet you where you are at and be a support to you.
I am certified in perinatal mental health disorders and I am trained in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing) Therapy.
I strive to help others feel empowered and to be able cope with their mental health and life in general. We will work together so that you can begin to heal, learn how to keep growing and improving yourself and work towards your goals. Everyone needs additional support at times in their lives that is neutral, non-judgmental, and unbiased to help get through life's trials & tribulations. My goal is to meet you where you are at and be a support to you.
![Photo of Ankeny Family Counseling, LMHC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3f40f812-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Areas of expertise: EMDR Couples Counseling, Depression and Anxiety.
We have immediate openings at our Ankeny office. Our therapists are the most compassionate that you will find. We understand that the pressures in life, such as jobs, finances, marriages and other relationships can lead to feelings of frustration, anger, hopelessness and isolation. We have all had difficulties. We want to help you overcome these difficulties by listening to you and helping with solutions that can help you.
Areas of expertise: EMDR Couples Counseling, Depression and Anxiety.
We have immediate openings at our Ankeny office. Our therapists are the most compassionate that you will find. We understand that the pressures in life, such as jobs, finances, marriages and other relationships can lead to feelings of frustration, anger, hopelessness and isolation. We have all had difficulties. We want to help you overcome these difficulties by listening to you and helping with solutions that can help you.
![Photo of Shannon Haus, MSEd, LMHC, ADHD-PT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/3083c955-8bd6-4da7-89f8-ae12164f3b15/2/320x400.jpeg)
Shannon Haus
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSEd, LMHC, ADHD-PT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
As a trauma-informed therapist utilizing EMDR, ACT, Ego State/ IFS and CBT, I support clients struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, depression, procrastination, indecision, and moving forward during transitional stages of life, including high school, college, graduate school, sports, retirement, and more. I have expertise with trauma and ADHD in people ranging in age from 15-70. Extensive experience working with college students.
As a trauma-informed therapist utilizing EMDR, ACT, Ego State/ IFS and CBT, I support clients struggling with ADHD, trauma, anxiety, depression, procrastination, indecision, and moving forward during transitional stages of life, including high school, college, graduate school, sports, retirement, and more. I have expertise with trauma and ADHD in people ranging in age from 15-70. Extensive experience working with college students.
![Photo of Mary Meyer - Full Heart Family Therapy, PhD, LMFT, CSAT, Marriage & Family Therapist](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/f26bfc08-78de-43f6-9585-9570a3338bc2/2/320x400.jpeg)
Full Heart Family Therapy
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT, CSAT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Ankeny, IA 50023
Our therapists offer a number of different specialties, including EMDR, art therapy, and co-occurring counseling.
At Full Heart Family Therapy, we work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Your therapist will strive to understand your story and your vision for your future, so we can help you overcome obstacles and create the life that you hope for. Our goal is to help you create a full life and a full heart!
Our therapists offer a number of different specialties, including EMDR, art therapy, and co-occurring counseling.
At Full Heart Family Therapy, we work with individuals, couples, and families on a variety of mental, emotional, and relational issues. Your therapist will strive to understand your story and your vision for your future, so we can help you overcome obstacles and create the life that you hope for. Our goal is to help you create a full life and a full heart!
![Photo of Angelia McCright, MA, LMHC, NCC, Counselor](https://photos.psychologytoday.com/66dbd278-d63d-46e6-b624-2fce80c13309/3/320x400.jpeg)
I incorporate and integrate brain science, DBT/CBT, polyvagal theory, attachment theory, parts work and EMDR into my practice.
Finding the right partner in your counseling journey is especially important in the healing process. I provide a compassionate and supportive presence for individuals 18 and over who are struggling with a variety of life challenges and mental health issues. I also provide support to parents who are facing challenging situations with their children.
I incorporate and integrate brain science, DBT/CBT, polyvagal theory, attachment theory, parts work and EMDR into my practice.
Finding the right partner in your counseling journey is especially important in the healing process. I provide a compassionate and supportive presence for individuals 18 and over who are struggling with a variety of life challenges and mental health issues. I also provide support to parents who are facing challenging situations with their children.
See more therapy options for Ankeny
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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.