EMDR Therapists in Western Springs, IL

Photo of Kris Maynard, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kris Maynard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Western Springs, IL 60558
Waitlist for new clients
I am an EMDR certified therapist and I tend to use EMDR; CBT; Internal Family Systems; the practice of mindfulness; and theories from complex trauma, attachment, and grief most often in my practice.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families coping with a variety of issues. My passion is seeing people find their own potential and realize they are the masters of their own change, healing and happiness. I practice from a belief that often people become stuck in overwhelming problems from their past; current life stressors; or fears of the future and change. My goal is to help you move forward and be able to have new skills to take with you to apply as needed as you move on with your life.
I am an EMDR certified therapist and I tend to use EMDR; CBT; Internal Family Systems; the practice of mindfulness; and theories from complex trauma, attachment, and grief most often in my practice.
I have over 20 years of experience working with individuals, adolescents, couples, and families coping with a variety of issues. My passion is seeing people find their own potential and realize they are the masters of their own change, healing and happiness. I practice from a belief that often people become stuck in overwhelming problems from their past; current life stressors; or fears of the future and change. My goal is to help you move forward and be able to have new skills to take with you to apply as needed as you move on with your life.
(708) 921-3639 View (708) 921-3639
Photo of Hillary Pilotto, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Hillary Pilotto
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Western Springs, IL 60558  (Online Only)
I’m a certified EMDR therapist, and I specialize in helping working moms with school aged children reduce the chaos and break the cycle of your own upbringing.
My clients often feel like they are running on empty and always fall to the bottom of their to-do list. They have a hard time asking for help. They work so hard to be the best mom, partner, daughter, friend, and professional. They will sacrifice their sleep, diet, and overall well-being for everyone else. My clients are strong and independent, but often feel overwhelmed and unsupported due to generational patterns of anxiety, stress, and burnout. Together, we find the confidence and strategies they need to create a more peaceful and fulfilling family life, without sacrificing their own goals and desires.
I’m a certified EMDR therapist, and I specialize in helping working moms with school aged children reduce the chaos and break the cycle of your own upbringing.
My clients often feel like they are running on empty and always fall to the bottom of their to-do list. They have a hard time asking for help. They work so hard to be the best mom, partner, daughter, friend, and professional. They will sacrifice their sleep, diet, and overall well-being for everyone else. My clients are strong and independent, but often feel overwhelmed and unsupported due to generational patterns of anxiety, stress, and burnout. Together, we find the confidence and strategies they need to create a more peaceful and fulfilling family life, without sacrificing their own goals and desires.
(708) 512-7792 View (708) 512-7792
Photo of Beth Cappelli, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Beth Cappelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Western Springs, IL 60558
Together we can gain insight to problems, reduce overwhelm, discover ways to reduce stress and worry, and develop a greater sense of wellbeing. I invite you to share your thoughts and process them in a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space.
Together we can gain insight to problems, reduce overwhelm, discover ways to reduce stress and worry, and develop a greater sense of wellbeing. I invite you to share your thoughts and process them in a safe, non-judgmental, and compassionate space.
(708) 578-2996 View (708) 578-2996
Photo of Elizabeth Cappelli, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Elizabeth Cappelli
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Western Springs, IL 60558
Beth Cappelli is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She earned her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Concordia University Chicago, and her internship training was completed at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital Behavioral Health. Beth’s approach to therapy is collaborative and focused on your unique needs, goals, and life experiences. Your personal values will guide your work together and help create meaningful ways to manage whatever life challenges you are facing. Together you and Beth can gain insight to problems, discover ways to reduce stress and worry, and develop a greater sense of wellbeing.
Beth Cappelli is a Licensed Professional Counselor in Illinois. She earned her MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Concordia University Chicago, and her internship training was completed at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital Behavioral Health. Beth’s approach to therapy is collaborative and focused on your unique needs, goals, and life experiences. Your personal values will guide your work together and help create meaningful ways to manage whatever life challenges you are facing. Together you and Beth can gain insight to problems, discover ways to reduce stress and worry, and develop a greater sense of wellbeing.
(708) 766-8704 View (708) 766-8704
Photo of Char Pierce, PsyD, SEP, Psychologist
Char Pierce
Psychologist, PsyD, SEP
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Western Springs, IL 60558
Waitlist for new clients
Thank-you for visiting my profile! I believe it is very important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I am a body oriented therapist, and I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe, respectful, and optimal for healing and growth.
Thank-you for visiting my profile! I believe it is very important to find a therapist with whom you feel comfortable. I am a body oriented therapist, and I strive to create a therapeutic environment that is safe, respectful, and optimal for healing and growth.
(331) 253-4556 View (331) 253-4556
Photo of Rachel Clarke, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rachel Clarke
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Western Springs, IL 60558  (Online Only)
I am a Neurodivergent LCSW, experienced in navigating Autism, ADHD, and Trauma - including depression, suicidality, anxiety & panic attacks, and substance use & abuse. I utilize a trauma-informed, inclusive, holistic, and biopsychosocial approach in therapy. Please follow my website link to schedule a consultation.
I am a Neurodivergent LCSW, experienced in navigating Autism, ADHD, and Trauma - including depression, suicidality, anxiety & panic attacks, and substance use & abuse. I utilize a trauma-informed, inclusive, holistic, and biopsychosocial approach in therapy. Please follow my website link to schedule a consultation.
(630) 528-1072 View (630) 528-1072

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rebecca Franceschetti, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rebecca Franceschetti
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
I am trauma informed and I utilize EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, and ACT.
My therapeutic style is centered around respect and empathy. I strive to empower and encourage you as the expert in your journey to heal and gain insight into why you do what you do. In my career, I have worked with clients of all ages, including adolescents and adults of diverse backgrounds who are coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, life transitions, and more. I am here to support you and to provide you with a safe space where you can learn, grow, and alleviate emotional suffering.
I am trauma informed and I utilize EMDR, IFS, DBT, CBT, and ACT.
My therapeutic style is centered around respect and empathy. I strive to empower and encourage you as the expert in your journey to heal and gain insight into why you do what you do. In my career, I have worked with clients of all ages, including adolescents and adults of diverse backgrounds who are coping with depression, anxiety, trauma, bipolar disorder, substance abuse, life transitions, and more. I am here to support you and to provide you with a safe space where you can learn, grow, and alleviate emotional suffering.
(708) 249-3737 View (708) 249-3737
Photo of Amanda Winter, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Amanda Winter
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521  (Online Only)
I also incorporate Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and mindfulness techniques.
My name is Amanda Winter and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have worked with various populations including individuals with trauma, anxiety, depression, and difficult life transitions. I have 12+ years experience working in a school and private practice setting. I think it is important to find balance in life and it starts with self-discovery and self-care.
I also incorporate Cognitive Behavior Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) and mindfulness techniques.
My name is Amanda Winter and I am a licensed clinical social worker. I have worked with various populations including individuals with trauma, anxiety, depression, and difficult life transitions. I have 12+ years experience working in a school and private practice setting. I think it is important to find balance in life and it starts with self-discovery and self-care.
(224) 263-4975 View (224) 263-4975
Photo of Valerie J Piazza, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Valerie J Piazza
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I am also an EMDR trained clinician.
When facing a stressful life experience or traumatic event that is causing significant emotional distress, you may realize that working through it alone or talking with family and friends isn't enough to bring relief. Calling a professional dedicated to helping you understand and develop healthy coping skills is often the most difficult, but necessary step to finding relief, emotional growth and healing.
I am also an EMDR trained clinician.
When facing a stressful life experience or traumatic event that is causing significant emotional distress, you may realize that working through it alone or talking with family and friends isn't enough to bring relief. Calling a professional dedicated to helping you understand and develop healthy coping skills is often the most difficult, but necessary step to finding relief, emotional growth and healing.
(773) 672-8656 View (773) 672-8656
Photo of Jennifer C Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
We are trained in doing EMDR for trauma issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We are trained in doing EMDR for trauma issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Julie Skokna, LCPC, RN, NCC, EMDR, therapy
Julie Skokna
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, RN, NCC, EMDR, therapy
Verified Verified
Countryside, IL 60525  (Online Only)
In my practice I use research based methods - EMDR, trauma therapies, body-based mindfulness, imagery - to help you develop the tools you need to navigate stressors so you can achieve your goals.
Ever feel like you just Can't Do It Anymore! Or you would like to improve your work and personal relationships? At times we get to this point and know it's time to reach out for SUPPORT. Time for change. I work with those who may have experienced difficult childhood events, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, or other mental health disorders that create stress keeping you from enjoying your life. I can teach you techniques to create the calm you require to pursue your career or relationship dreams. You can prepare for the next life challenge, even if it's scary or seems impossible.
In my practice I use research based methods - EMDR, trauma therapies, body-based mindfulness, imagery - to help you develop the tools you need to navigate stressors so you can achieve your goals.
Ever feel like you just Can't Do It Anymore! Or you would like to improve your work and personal relationships? At times we get to this point and know it's time to reach out for SUPPORT. Time for change. I work with those who may have experienced difficult childhood events, trauma, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, or other mental health disorders that create stress keeping you from enjoying your life. I can teach you techniques to create the calm you require to pursue your career or relationship dreams. You can prepare for the next life challenge, even if it's scary or seems impossible.
(630) 448-8912 View (630) 448-8912
Photo of Noel Cordova, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Noel Cordova
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
La Grange Park, IL 60526
I am a bi-lingual (English and Spanish) counselor. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents who are dealing with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, stress related to life changes, and symptoms related to child abuse or trauma. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work well with difficult to engage teens, adults looking to make life changes, adults with substance use issues, and people with issues related to trauma. My style is easy going and non-judgmental but I can also help you work on meeting your goals. I am doing EMDR (trauma treatment) sessions online and in person at this time.
I am a bi-lingual (English and Spanish) counselor. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents who are dealing with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, stress related to life changes, and symptoms related to child abuse or trauma. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work well with difficult to engage teens, adults looking to make life changes, adults with substance use issues, and people with issues related to trauma. My style is easy going and non-judgmental but I can also help you work on meeting your goals. I am doing EMDR (trauma treatment) sessions online and in person at this time.
(708) 290-7291 View (708) 290-7291
Photo of Thomas L Schemper, PhD, Psychologist
Thomas L Schemper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I am trained in EMDR and have developed a variant of this powerful trauma resolution tool to help my coaching clients optimize their performance in business, sports, creative endeavors and personal growth.
Life unfolds presenting its challenges and we are often required to adapt and change. I have over 25 years of experience helping my clients at these important times. I actively participate in creating an environment that is safe and promotes healing and growth. I do this by striving to be attentive, supportive, challenging and compassionate while embracing the gifts,losses,struggles, irony and humor in life's situations. I help my clients cultivate self care by being good observers of themselves and their surroundings, asking hard questions, and showing compassion as they try different approaches and stay open to new possibilities.
I am trained in EMDR and have developed a variant of this powerful trauma resolution tool to help my coaching clients optimize their performance in business, sports, creative endeavors and personal growth.
Life unfolds presenting its challenges and we are often required to adapt and change. I have over 25 years of experience helping my clients at these important times. I actively participate in creating an environment that is safe and promotes healing and growth. I do this by striving to be attentive, supportive, challenging and compassionate while embracing the gifts,losses,struggles, irony and humor in life's situations. I help my clients cultivate self care by being good observers of themselves and their surroundings, asking hard questions, and showing compassion as they try different approaches and stay open to new possibilities.
(630) 426-3843 x261 View (630) 426-3843 x261
Photo of Cecilia Contreras, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Cecilia Contreras
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
I am EMDR trained and I am currently working on becoming EMDR certified.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10+ years of experience with adolescents, young adults, adults, and families, my goal is to provide a safe and warm environment that will allow you to process past and present struggles without feeling judged. I have dedicated much of my clinical practice towards helping adolescents and adults of all walks of life, regain their power and self-confidence in the wake of a stressful life event. I work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, trauma, grief, loss, or day to day struggles that are weighing them down.
I am EMDR trained and I am currently working on becoming EMDR certified.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10+ years of experience with adolescents, young adults, adults, and families, my goal is to provide a safe and warm environment that will allow you to process past and present struggles without feeling judged. I have dedicated much of my clinical practice towards helping adolescents and adults of all walks of life, regain their power and self-confidence in the wake of a stressful life event. I work with individuals who are struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship conflicts, trauma, grief, loss, or day to day struggles that are weighing them down.
(708) 394-7910 View (708) 394-7910
Photo of Liz Reynolds, MA, LCSW, CDWF, RYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Liz Reynolds
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW, CDWF, RYT
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525
Waitlist for new clients
As a trauma informed therapist trained in EMDR and Certified in Brene Brown's work as a Daring Way Facilitator, I am passionate in helping clients build shame resilience and heal from trauma.
I believe in the internal resources we all have to face life's challenges. It takes courage and strength to advocate for oneself to find the right therapist, and I appreciate you visiting my profile. We all need support along the way to reinforce our strengths and harness them for change. With over 20 years of experience with teens and adults in a variety of settings including schools, non profit, and residential facilities, I have had the privilege of supporting clients in their growth and change from their own place of awareness and strength.
As a trauma informed therapist trained in EMDR and Certified in Brene Brown's work as a Daring Way Facilitator, I am passionate in helping clients build shame resilience and heal from trauma.
I believe in the internal resources we all have to face life's challenges. It takes courage and strength to advocate for oneself to find the right therapist, and I appreciate you visiting my profile. We all need support along the way to reinforce our strengths and harness them for change. With over 20 years of experience with teens and adults in a variety of settings including schools, non profit, and residential facilities, I have had the privilege of supporting clients in their growth and change from their own place of awareness and strength.
(331) 444-7568 View (331) 444-7568
Photo of Taja-Nia Horne - Taja-Nia Horne, EMDR and Psychotherapy, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Taja-Nia Horne, EMDR and Psychotherapy
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Oak Brook, IL 60522  (Online Only)
I also use EMDR to help clients finally heal from trauma that feels stuck.
Are you struggling with challenging emotions on a daily basis? Maybe you’re feeling irritable and anxious. Sometimes you find yourself overthinking. Have you tried everything but can't seem to move past one situation? If any of this describes your experience, you’re in the right place! I help clients navigate challenging emotions, adjust to change, and let go of things that seem to be holding them back.
I also use EMDR to help clients finally heal from trauma that feels stuck.
Are you struggling with challenging emotions on a daily basis? Maybe you’re feeling irritable and anxious. Sometimes you find yourself overthinking. Have you tried everything but can't seem to move past one situation? If any of this describes your experience, you’re in the right place! I help clients navigate challenging emotions, adjust to change, and let go of things that seem to be holding them back.
(312) 345-6250 View (312) 345-6250
Photo of Lisa Keller, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lisa Keller
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Hinsdale, IL 60521
I work with teens and adults who are experiencing mood disorders, eating disorders, and trauma. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and EMDR, a research-based method for trauma resolution. My treatment focus is to help my clients find the tools they feel are necessary to manage things on a day-to-day basis. Everyone is different and processes things in their own ways. Some people talk through things, while others do artwork. I take time to learn my clients’ needs and then guide them into the coping practice that best serves them.
I work with teens and adults who are experiencing mood disorders, eating disorders, and trauma. I am trained in Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) and EMDR, a research-based method for trauma resolution. My treatment focus is to help my clients find the tools they feel are necessary to manage things on a day-to-day basis. Everyone is different and processes things in their own ways. Some people talk through things, while others do artwork. I take time to learn my clients’ needs and then guide them into the coping practice that best serves them.
(708) 249-3259 View (708) 249-3259
Photo of Ewelina Boch, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ewelina Boch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525  (Online Only)
I regularly utilize IFS, EMDR, and healthy doses of humor to foster integrative healing.
Life’s stressors can gradually chip away at our spirit and energy, impacting our moods, physical health, sleep, and overall well-being. Whether the stress stems from feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, feeling stuck, or revisiting/reliving painful experience(s) - finding a path to relief often begins with identifying the root causes and exploring the mind-body connection. Gaining insight into these underlying factors can be a crucial first step towards feeling better.
I regularly utilize IFS, EMDR, and healthy doses of humor to foster integrative healing.
Life’s stressors can gradually chip away at our spirit and energy, impacting our moods, physical health, sleep, and overall well-being. Whether the stress stems from feeling overwhelmed by life's demands, feeling stuck, or revisiting/reliving painful experience(s) - finding a path to relief often begins with identifying the root causes and exploring the mind-body connection. Gaining insight into these underlying factors can be a crucial first step towards feeling better.
(708) 775-2833 View (708) 775-2833
Photo of Anne Mirza, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Mirza
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
La Grange, IL 60525  (Online Only)
I am fully trained in EMDR for those that would benefit from this technique.
I believe in the resilience of all human beings. Given a chance to be seen, known, and guided, anyone can be emotionally and mentally healthy. Insights and answers are already waiting to be found within you, so my role is to accompany you in uncovering your truths and inner wisdom. Through our work you’ll gain a fuller understanding of yourself, discover fresh perspectives on your past and current circumstances, and participate in meaningful growth and healing in your everyday life. I utilize an integrative approach to therapeutic interventions and customize evidence-based practices to each individual.
I am fully trained in EMDR for those that would benefit from this technique.
I believe in the resilience of all human beings. Given a chance to be seen, known, and guided, anyone can be emotionally and mentally healthy. Insights and answers are already waiting to be found within you, so my role is to accompany you in uncovering your truths and inner wisdom. Through our work you’ll gain a fuller understanding of yourself, discover fresh perspectives on your past and current circumstances, and participate in meaningful growth and healing in your everyday life. I utilize an integrative approach to therapeutic interventions and customize evidence-based practices to each individual.
(331) 321-7005 View (331) 321-7005
Photo of Suzanne Muirheid, LCPC, CADC, CCTP-II, Counselor
Suzanne Muirheid
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
La Grange, IL 60525
While trained in several techniques, I most commonly use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) as it has provided the most effective results for my clients.
Seeking a therapist is a positive step in your pursuit to feel better. As a trauma-informed therapist, I understand that trauma does not discriminate and may present in several different forms. Research has shown that both “big T” (a single, terrible event) and “little t” trauma (daily stressors) can block the brain’s ability to process distressing events and have a profoundly negative impact on emotional, psychological, physical and spiritual well-being. Both of these types of traumas can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, phobias, relationship issues, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or more.
While trained in several techniques, I most commonly use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) as it has provided the most effective results for my clients.
Seeking a therapist is a positive step in your pursuit to feel better. As a trauma-informed therapist, I understand that trauma does not discriminate and may present in several different forms. Research has shown that both “big T” (a single, terrible event) and “little t” trauma (daily stressors) can block the brain’s ability to process distressing events and have a profoundly negative impact on emotional, psychological, physical and spiritual well-being. Both of these types of traumas can lead to depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, addiction, phobias, relationship issues, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or more.
(773) 234-0423 View (773) 234-0423

See more therapy options for Western Springs

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.