EMDR Therapists in Normal, IL
EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) are our secret weapons for tackling your challenges.
Feeling like your relationship hit a speed bump? I get it—betrayal, arguments, and a dip in intimacy can make the road ahead seem tough. But every great love story has its challenges, and with the right tools, yours can get back on track! I specialize in guiding couples through their toughest times with care, understanding, and a sprinkle of humor. Imagine transforming heated debates into meaningful conversations, reigniting that passionate spark, and rebuilding trust like never before. Let’s rewrite your love story together. Because every couple deserves a happily ever after.
EMDR, Emotionally Focused Therapy, and Internal Family Systems (IFS) are our secret weapons for tackling your challenges.
Feeling like your relationship hit a speed bump? I get it—betrayal, arguments, and a dip in intimacy can make the road ahead seem tough. But every great love story has its challenges, and with the right tools, yours can get back on track! I specialize in guiding couples through their toughest times with care, understanding, and a sprinkle of humor. Imagine transforming heated debates into meaningful conversations, reigniting that passionate spark, and rebuilding trust like never before. Let’s rewrite your love story together. Because every couple deserves a happily ever after.
Jenn Bovee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, CCTP II, CCHt
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Our EMDR intensives provide a safe and personalized approach, helping you heal faster and on your terms.
Do you feel like you're living life on the outside, emotionally numb and weighed down by fragmented memories and unseen wounds? The journey has been hard—you’ve faced things no one should, and yet thriving still feels distant. Trusting your emotions or feeling present in your own body may be a daily challenge. You've tried to heal, but progress feels slow, and finding someone who truly understands isn’t easy. It’s time for a different approach—one that meets you where you are and helps you reconnect with yourself.
Our EMDR intensives provide a safe and personalized approach, helping you heal faster and on your terms.
Do you feel like you're living life on the outside, emotionally numb and weighed down by fragmented memories and unseen wounds? The journey has been hard—you’ve faced things no one should, and yet thriving still feels distant. Trusting your emotions or feeling present in your own body may be a daily challenge. You've tried to heal, but progress feels slow, and finding someone who truly understands isn’t easy. It’s time for a different approach—one that meets you where you are and helps you reconnect with yourself.
By utilizing a variety of approaches and interventions, such as: EMDR, Theraplay, TRBI, Mindfulness, CBT, Sand Tray-based Therapy, and Neurofeedback, Greg equips trauma survivors with the space, support, and skills necessary to identify triggers, develop healthy coping skills, decrease traumatic symptoms, and practice trauma processing and integration.
Greg specializes in trauma-focused therapy for children ages 5 & up, adolescents, and adults. For those who have experienced childhood trauma, relational trauma, or complex trauma, life often feels overwhelming. Their sense of self, relationships, & view of the past, present, & future become rocky at best. As a result many trauma survivors live in chronic state of anxiety, depression, numbness, fatigue, burn out & suffer from illness. In addition to trauma survivors, Greg works closely with children, teens, young adults, & adoptive families struggling with depression, anxiety, dissociation, mood disorders, behavioral issues & more.
By utilizing a variety of approaches and interventions, such as: EMDR, Theraplay, TRBI, Mindfulness, CBT, Sand Tray-based Therapy, and Neurofeedback, Greg equips trauma survivors with the space, support, and skills necessary to identify triggers, develop healthy coping skills, decrease traumatic symptoms, and practice trauma processing and integration.
Greg specializes in trauma-focused therapy for children ages 5 & up, adolescents, and adults. For those who have experienced childhood trauma, relational trauma, or complex trauma, life often feels overwhelming. Their sense of self, relationships, & view of the past, present, & future become rocky at best. As a result many trauma survivors live in chronic state of anxiety, depression, numbness, fatigue, burn out & suffer from illness. In addition to trauma survivors, Greg works closely with children, teens, young adults, & adoptive families struggling with depression, anxiety, dissociation, mood disorders, behavioral issues & more.
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Normal
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
With a master's in human development counseling, I use EMDR, Theraplay, and trust-based interventions.
Curious about the future? Wondering if it's worth it? Seeking hope amidst challenges? Let's journey together! I'm Tori, a Southern Illinois native now in BLONO since 2021. With Poppy (my dachshund), music, and loved ones, I find joy. Warm, dedicated, open-minded—I'm here to support. Mental health in the community brings me happiness. My office is a welcoming, safe space. Therapy "aha moments" are my favorite. Personal health varies; together, we'll tailor a plan. I've worked with diverse individuals, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and more.
With a master's in human development counseling, I use EMDR, Theraplay, and trust-based interventions.
Curious about the future? Wondering if it's worth it? Seeking hope amidst challenges? Let's journey together! I'm Tori, a Southern Illinois native now in BLONO since 2021. With Poppy (my dachshund), music, and loved ones, I find joy. Warm, dedicated, open-minded—I'm here to support. Mental health in the community brings me happiness. My office is a welcoming, safe space. Therapy "aha moments" are my favorite. Personal health varies; together, we'll tailor a plan. I've worked with diverse individuals, addressing issues like depression, anxiety, trauma, and more.
I have training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and use different ways to support you, like talking about thoughts and behaviors (CBT), understanding emotions (DBT), exploring through play and art, focusing on personal growth (humanistic psychology), and sharing helpful information (psychoeducation).
Welcome! As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am passionate about supporting individuals facing various challenges, with a special focus on trauma, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. My expertise extends to working with teenagers, with a particular emphasis on those navigating the complexities of the LGBTQIA spectrum. I am committed to providing a safe and empathetic space for adolescents to explore and overcome their unique struggles, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being. Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment.
I have training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and use different ways to support you, like talking about thoughts and behaviors (CBT), understanding emotions (DBT), exploring through play and art, focusing on personal growth (humanistic psychology), and sharing helpful information (psychoeducation).
Welcome! As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am passionate about supporting individuals facing various challenges, with a special focus on trauma, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. My expertise extends to working with teenagers, with a particular emphasis on those navigating the complexities of the LGBTQIA spectrum. I am committed to providing a safe and empathetic space for adolescents to explore and overcome their unique struggles, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being. Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment.
Some of these include EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, IFS, mindfulness, and solution focused therapy.
Therapy can often be described as a journey on a winding path. There are obstacles, detours, and difficult terrain but with each step you move towards understanding, peace, and contentment. I am passionate about empowering clients that struggle with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship issues, illness, and trauma/complex trauma forage a new path. By utilizing non-judgmental inquiry and keeping each individual client’s personal values in mind, I help my clients reconnect to their inner compass and move towards what they truly want.
Some of these include EMDR, CBT, DBT, ACT, IFS, mindfulness, and solution focused therapy.
Therapy can often be described as a journey on a winding path. There are obstacles, detours, and difficult terrain but with each step you move towards understanding, peace, and contentment. I am passionate about empowering clients that struggle with anxiety, depression, addiction, grief/loss, life transitions, relationship issues, illness, and trauma/complex trauma forage a new path. By utilizing non-judgmental inquiry and keeping each individual client’s personal values in mind, I help my clients reconnect to their inner compass and move towards what they truly want.
Wilma McLaughlin Counseling & Mediation PLLC
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761
Waitlist for new clients
I combine attachment theory, family systems and trauma informed treatment, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
What has motivated me in my 20+ years of practice me is the belief that change is possible when aligned with hope. Presenting issues are often about relationships and self discovery. Professionally and personally, I can attest that healthy relationships are vital to emotional well being- so exploration of relationships, present or past, is one aspect of therapy, along with communication and self understanding. As has been said "we are born in relationship, wounded in relationship, and are healed in relationship".
I combine attachment theory, family systems and trauma informed treatment, including EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing).
What has motivated me in my 20+ years of practice me is the belief that change is possible when aligned with hope. Presenting issues are often about relationships and self discovery. Professionally and personally, I can attest that healthy relationships are vital to emotional well being- so exploration of relationships, present or past, is one aspect of therapy, along with communication and self understanding. As has been said "we are born in relationship, wounded in relationship, and are healed in relationship".
Alya Abbed is a licensed therapist specializing in trauma treatment. Al has over 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in mental health. Her clinical expertise is treating complex trauma including childhood abuse/neglect in addition to physical/sexual/emotional abuse and sexual assault. She is formally trained in EMDR, ITR, Theraplay, and trauma-informed sexual assault. Al's therapeutic modality of choice is talk therapy alongside EMDR, CBT, and DBT. She received her Bachelor's degree in Pyschology and her Master's degree in Community Counseling from Oakland University in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
Alya Abbed is a licensed therapist specializing in trauma treatment. Al has over 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in mental health. Her clinical expertise is treating complex trauma including childhood abuse/neglect in addition to physical/sexual/emotional abuse and sexual assault. She is formally trained in EMDR, ITR, Theraplay, and trauma-informed sexual assault. Al's therapeutic modality of choice is talk therapy alongside EMDR, CBT, and DBT. She received her Bachelor's degree in Pyschology and her Master's degree in Community Counseling from Oakland University in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
Elliott Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
14 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
I have also seen resolution of traumatic memories using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and/or brainpaint (neurobiofeedback).
My philosophy towards therapy and, being a therapist,can be put this way.You can create positive change in your life. You can overcome difficult and even seemingly overwhelming obstacles. The first step is to believe that you are worthy of a better life no matter what the present situation tells you. The next step is to accept that, 'Life is a Journey'. I think there is incredible wisdom and hope in those words; a journey is on-going, and, life gives you opportunities to change as you choose! Sometimes we just need a little help figuring out how to start.
I have also seen resolution of traumatic memories using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and/or brainpaint (neurobiofeedback).
My philosophy towards therapy and, being a therapist,can be put this way.You can create positive change in your life. You can overcome difficult and even seemingly overwhelming obstacles. The first step is to believe that you are worthy of a better life no matter what the present situation tells you. The next step is to accept that, 'Life is a Journey'. I think there is incredible wisdom and hope in those words; a journey is on-going, and, life gives you opportunities to change as you choose! Sometimes we just need a little help figuring out how to start.
I also provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) which is used to resolve traumatic memories, resulting in healthier day to day functioning.
Sometimes we lose our way in life or we are inhibited by past trauma/grief that can leave us overwhelmed and confused. I believe that you can't always choose your circumstances in life, but you can choose to overcome them. I also believe that you have the power to manage/control your thoughts and feelings instead of allowing them to control you. My goal is to help you work through those past or current issues, overcome those difficult circumstances in life, and to help you gain control over your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to help enhance your well-being.
I also provide Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) which is used to resolve traumatic memories, resulting in healthier day to day functioning.
Sometimes we lose our way in life or we are inhibited by past trauma/grief that can leave us overwhelmed and confused. I believe that you can't always choose your circumstances in life, but you can choose to overcome them. I also believe that you have the power to manage/control your thoughts and feelings instead of allowing them to control you. My goal is to help you work through those past or current issues, overcome those difficult circumstances in life, and to help you gain control over your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors in order to help enhance your well-being.
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Liz Fultz
Counselor, MA, LPC, CCTP-II, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Waitlist for new clients
After completing my first Masters degree in 2013, I became trained in EMDR, and never went back to traditional therapy.
Contrary to what many people believe, not all adversity is bad. Over coming challenges produces strength in character, improves competency and leads to joy. Trauma occurs when adversity in life outweighs our available resources. As a EMDR and Trauma Certified therapist, I also incorporate techniques informed by the Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) & Somatic Experiencing (SE) for a bottom up approach. However, my main goal is to remind you of what we all intuitively know - that healing can only happen within the context of emotionally safe relationships. You are safe here.
After completing my first Masters degree in 2013, I became trained in EMDR, and never went back to traditional therapy.
Contrary to what many people believe, not all adversity is bad. Over coming challenges produces strength in character, improves competency and leads to joy. Trauma occurs when adversity in life outweighs our available resources. As a EMDR and Trauma Certified therapist, I also incorporate techniques informed by the Polyvagal Theory, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Emotionally Focused Individual Therapy (EFIT) & Somatic Experiencing (SE) for a bottom up approach. However, my main goal is to remind you of what we all intuitively know - that healing can only happen within the context of emotionally safe relationships. You are safe here.
I am clinically trained in EMDR therapy and trauma informed resources and techniques.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (MA, LCPC) in central Illinois. I have been working in the mental health field specializing in trauma across the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults). My clinical expertise and training includes trauma focused therapy, shame and resiliency, healthy relationships, as well as working alongside foster and adoptive families. I believe therapy includes “an us.” It is an engaging and collaborative process. My hope is to provide a safe and warm environment to facilitate healing and growth.
I am clinically trained in EMDR therapy and trauma informed resources and techniques.
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (MA, LCPC) in central Illinois. I have been working in the mental health field specializing in trauma across the lifespan (children, adolescents, and adults). My clinical expertise and training includes trauma focused therapy, shame and resiliency, healthy relationships, as well as working alongside foster and adoptive families. I believe therapy includes “an us.” It is an engaging and collaborative process. My hope is to provide a safe and warm environment to facilitate healing and growth.
I have been trained in EMDR, use neurofeedback, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems and parts work, some somatic work, and DBT skills training.
“Emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as Breathing is!” We all need to know that we deserve happiness even if we aren’t used to it. I have been a Social Worker for 28 years. In that time, I have worked in Community Mental Health, Rehab to home and long-term care, and hospice. I believe creating an environment of trust and safety is the most important part of the therapeutic relationship. I have experience with grief, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and trauma.
I have been trained in EMDR, use neurofeedback, Mindfulness, Internal Family Systems and parts work, some somatic work, and DBT skills training.
“Emotional wellbeing is just as important to us as Breathing is!” We all need to know that we deserve happiness even if we aren’t used to it. I have been a Social Worker for 28 years. In that time, I have worked in Community Mental Health, Rehab to home and long-term care, and hospice. I believe creating an environment of trust and safety is the most important part of the therapeutic relationship. I have experience with grief, depression, anxiety, borderline personality disorder, and trauma.
Trina McCarty
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Waitlist for new clients
Other Certifications Include:
* Grief and Loss Specialist
* Level I and II EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
* Illinois Certifed Domestic Violence Professional
* Family and Community Development Specialist.
I feel that counseling is a path to wellness and positive change, in which the client is an active participant in the healing process. Counseling should not only address symptoms, but the whole person, mind, body and spirit.
Other Certifications Include:
* Grief and Loss Specialist
* Level I and II EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)
* Illinois Certifed Domestic Violence Professional
* Family and Community Development Specialist.
I feel that counseling is a path to wellness and positive change, in which the client is an active participant in the healing process. Counseling should not only address symptoms, but the whole person, mind, body and spirit.
Lily Anderson LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Normal, IL 61761 (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I currently do telehealth therapy for DC, MD, IL and SC. As an EMDR Certified Therapist and EMDR Approved Consultant, I understand our struggles are not about "what's wrong with us" but "what happened to us." Looking to resolve current symptoms sometimes means healing from the past, while strengthening resources in the present and preparing for the future. I work with children, adolescents, and adults - individually and in caregiver-child dynamics - and invite you to reach out for a free consultation!
Hello! I currently do telehealth therapy for DC, MD, IL and SC. As an EMDR Certified Therapist and EMDR Approved Consultant, I understand our struggles are not about "what's wrong with us" but "what happened to us." Looking to resolve current symptoms sometimes means healing from the past, while strengthening resources in the present and preparing for the future. I work with children, adolescents, and adults - individually and in caregiver-child dynamics - and invite you to reach out for a free consultation!
I specialize in minimizing the interference and distress caused by OCD, panic and generalized anxiety disorder with creatively applied ExRP and other cognitive behavioral (CBT) techniques, or EMDR.
My ideal client is seeking relief from anxiety disorders (especially OCD, GAD, panic) across the age span. My hours flexible on an individual basis. I offer Christian-based counseling but can remain secular if desired. I individualize treatment by exploring an individual's strengths, support system, and goals through a cognitive-behavioral approach, including EXRP and EMDR
I specialize in minimizing the interference and distress caused by OCD, panic and generalized anxiety disorder with creatively applied ExRP and other cognitive behavioral (CBT) techniques, or EMDR.
My ideal client is seeking relief from anxiety disorders (especially OCD, GAD, panic) across the age span. My hours flexible on an individual basis. I offer Christian-based counseling but can remain secular if desired. I individualize treatment by exploring an individual's strengths, support system, and goals through a cognitive-behavioral approach, including EXRP and EMDR
Carrie K. Company
Counselor, MA, MSEd, LCPC, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Waitlist for new clients
I use an integrated approach to therapy and coaching that may include trauma informed techniques from various counseling approaches, including (but not limited to) EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gottman, Life Coaching, Positive Psychology, and Health Psychology.
I want to create a warm, accepting & empowering environment in which you feel understood and comfortable exploring ways to create positive lifestyle change that improves overall well-being. Everyone faces challenges and difficult times in their life. Whether it be past/childhood trauma(s), PTSD, anxiety, depression, difficulties in marriage/partnership, weight loss, or dealing with a chronic condition(s), you have someone in your corner ready to support and help you navigate the troubled waters. I truly believe in the gift that is being human and would be honored to walk with you on your journey.
I use an integrated approach to therapy and coaching that may include trauma informed techniques from various counseling approaches, including (but not limited to) EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, Gottman, Life Coaching, Positive Psychology, and Health Psychology.
I want to create a warm, accepting & empowering environment in which you feel understood and comfortable exploring ways to create positive lifestyle change that improves overall well-being. Everyone faces challenges and difficult times in their life. Whether it be past/childhood trauma(s), PTSD, anxiety, depression, difficulties in marriage/partnership, weight loss, or dealing with a chronic condition(s), you have someone in your corner ready to support and help you navigate the troubled waters. I truly believe in the gift that is being human and would be honored to walk with you on your journey.
Carley Nigro
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Waitlist for new clients
Within my practice, I utilize a variety of approaches, including AEDP, EMDR, attachment work, Theraplay-based therapy, emotion-focused, CBT, and somatic/body-based therapies.
At this time, I have a waitlist. I’m aware of the unique psychological, emotional, and social challenges faced by young individuals as they navigate the complexities of childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood. I would like to walk alongside of those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and family dynamics concerns. I believe that you are capable of growth and healing!
Within my practice, I utilize a variety of approaches, including AEDP, EMDR, attachment work, Theraplay-based therapy, emotion-focused, CBT, and somatic/body-based therapies.
At this time, I have a waitlist. I’m aware of the unique psychological, emotional, and social challenges faced by young individuals as they navigate the complexities of childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood. I would like to walk alongside of those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and family dynamics concerns. I believe that you are capable of growth and healing!
Jen Guidebeck LCSW, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
Many enter therapy for various reasons, from anxiety, stress or depression to trauma. Others are curious to discover more about themselves to improve their relationships and inner self. Whatever your circumstance is, therapy can be the first step in an empowering journey. One way to alleviate common and uncomfortable emotions is by identifying the root cause and processing events using evidence-based modalities, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and/or Brainspotting.
Many enter therapy for various reasons, from anxiety, stress or depression to trauma. Others are curious to discover more about themselves to improve their relationships and inner self. Whatever your circumstance is, therapy can be the first step in an empowering journey. One way to alleviate common and uncomfortable emotions is by identifying the root cause and processing events using evidence-based modalities, such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and/or Brainspotting.
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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.