EMDR Therapists in Vadnais Heights, MN

Photo of Lori Wiggenhorn, MA, LP, Psychologist
Lori Wiggenhorn
Psychologist, MA, LP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Vadnais Heights, MN 55110
I utilize Hakomi and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy which are body-based mindfulness techniques and EMDR for healing.
Does anxiety, depression or moodiness interfere with your experience of joy? Are your beliefs about the world, people and yourself getting in the way of leading a more satisfying life? These are some of the questions I have helped clients work on in my twenty five plus years as a psychologist. I want to help you learn skills to better manage these issues and other important aspects of your life. Here are some of the techniques I offer in therapy: cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) modified for individuals, family systems theory, solution-focused therapy and spirituality.
I utilize Hakomi and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy which are body-based mindfulness techniques and EMDR for healing.
Does anxiety, depression or moodiness interfere with your experience of joy? Are your beliefs about the world, people and yourself getting in the way of leading a more satisfying life? These are some of the questions I have helped clients work on in my twenty five plus years as a psychologist. I want to help you learn skills to better manage these issues and other important aspects of your life. Here are some of the techniques I offer in therapy: cognitive-behavioral therapy, dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) modified for individuals, family systems theory, solution-focused therapy and spirituality.
(612) 284-5299 View (612) 284-5299
Photo of Mel Pascoe, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mel Pascoe
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
I use an attachment lens and various modalities like somatic experiencing, DBT, EMDR and parts work to help adults or couples with issues of trauma, anxiety, or relationship conflicts.
I am passionate about working people to help them feel better about themselves, their relationships, and their life! We all struggle sometimes, and choosing therapy is a brave choice. I am always honored to be part of someone’s journey. Together we will work to address the root of any pain or anxiety you are feeling. We will explore where your issues come from, honor your past, while learning new ways to make peace with your present. I will help you learn new ways to cope with your emotions while working to address the deep stuff that is making life feel so hard sometimes.
I use an attachment lens and various modalities like somatic experiencing, DBT, EMDR and parts work to help adults or couples with issues of trauma, anxiety, or relationship conflicts.
I am passionate about working people to help them feel better about themselves, their relationships, and their life! We all struggle sometimes, and choosing therapy is a brave choice. I am always honored to be part of someone’s journey. Together we will work to address the root of any pain or anxiety you are feeling. We will explore where your issues come from, honor your past, while learning new ways to make peace with your present. I will help you learn new ways to cope with your emotions while working to address the deep stuff that is making life feel so hard sometimes.
(651) 318-4825 View (651) 318-4825
Photo of Kelly Elisa Ryan, MS, LPCC, Counselor
Kelly Elisa Ryan
Counselor, MS, LPCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127  (Online Only)
I offer art therapy, talk therapy, and EMDR.
Licensed Professional Counselor whose work is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, art therapy, mindfulness and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Her experiences include in-home family therapy, day training and habilitation for adults with intellectual disabilities and behavioral concerns, and art therapy in a psychiatric DBT program.
I offer art therapy, talk therapy, and EMDR.
Licensed Professional Counselor whose work is informed by cognitive behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, art therapy, mindfulness and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). Her experiences include in-home family therapy, day training and habilitation for adults with intellectual disabilities and behavioral concerns, and art therapy in a psychiatric DBT program.
(651) 504-1487 View (651) 504-1487
Photo of Rebecca Blaede, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Rebecca Blaede
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
Waitlist for new clients
I am trained in EMDR and TF-CBT to assist others to fully process traumatic experiences.
I work with teens, adults, couples and families who struggle with a variety of conflicts. I strive to help others feel a sense of healing and understanding after challenging, stressful or traumatic situations.
I am trained in EMDR and TF-CBT to assist others to fully process traumatic experiences.
I work with teens, adults, couples and families who struggle with a variety of conflicts. I strive to help others feel a sense of healing and understanding after challenging, stressful or traumatic situations.
(612) 425-1846 View (612) 425-1846
Photo of Tia Wilcek, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Tia Wilcek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
16 Endorsed
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
Does it seem like everyone around you has it all together while you’re barely keeping your head above water? Does it seem as though your thoughts have been filled with unstoppable worry and maybe they've even begun to tell you lies that you’re beginning to believe. Perhaps it feels that no matter how much you’ve tried to erase ‘it’ from your mind, it keeps coming up and interrupting your life – making it hard to trust, to feel, to focus, to dream, to enjoy life. You wish for a day where you are free from it all and you want a therapist who understands and can help you heal from deep within. I just might be your therapist...
Does it seem like everyone around you has it all together while you’re barely keeping your head above water? Does it seem as though your thoughts have been filled with unstoppable worry and maybe they've even begun to tell you lies that you’re beginning to believe. Perhaps it feels that no matter how much you’ve tried to erase ‘it’ from your mind, it keeps coming up and interrupting your life – making it hard to trust, to feel, to focus, to dream, to enjoy life. You wish for a day where you are free from it all and you want a therapist who understands and can help you heal from deep within. I just might be your therapist...
(612) 260-9771 View (612) 260-9771
Photo of Maria Wetli, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Maria Wetli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Vadnais Heights, MN 55127
Do you find yourself wondering why you feel a certain way, why you behave the way you do, or why you have difficulties in your relationships? A lot of us have open wounds or negative beliefs about ourselves that cause problems- for example showing up in the form of depression, anxiety, panic, self-doubt, or relationship issues. As a human, I know how much it sucks to feel stuck, alone, or like no one understands. As a therapist, I will hold space for you to explore, learn, and heal from these wounds. You will be able to move forward in life with new understanding and the ability to navigate your emotions.
Do you find yourself wondering why you feel a certain way, why you behave the way you do, or why you have difficulties in your relationships? A lot of us have open wounds or negative beliefs about ourselves that cause problems- for example showing up in the form of depression, anxiety, panic, self-doubt, or relationship issues. As a human, I know how much it sucks to feel stuck, alone, or like no one understands. As a therapist, I will hold space for you to explore, learn, and heal from these wounds. You will be able to move forward in life with new understanding and the ability to navigate your emotions.
(651) 583-5565 View (651) 583-5565

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Tasha Rischmiller, LPC, LPCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tasha Rischmiller
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Maplewood, MN 55109  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, IFS and perinatal mood disorder treatment.
A typical client at Deep Roots Behavioral Health has a need for multifaceted and individualized care. We strive for an environment that feels safe and free of judgment so client can explore their mental health and move towards contentment. We treat a wide range of concerns ranging from adjustment disorder to complex PTSD.
I am trained in EMDR, DBT, IFS and perinatal mood disorder treatment.
A typical client at Deep Roots Behavioral Health has a need for multifaceted and individualized care. We strive for an environment that feels safe and free of judgment so client can explore their mental health and move towards contentment. We treat a wide range of concerns ranging from adjustment disorder to complex PTSD.
(970) 436-5755 View (970) 436-5755
Photo of Kate Auge (Current Openings), MSW, LICSW, CCTP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kate Auge (Current Openings)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, CCTP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
I am EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
A quote that resonates with the journey into therapy states, "in any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth, or to step back into safety." Whether this is your first time in therapy or you are taking that step forward again, welcome!
I am EMDR trained and a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional.
A quote that resonates with the journey into therapy states, "in any given moment, we have two options: to step forward into growth, or to step back into safety." Whether this is your first time in therapy or you are taking that step forward again, welcome!
(651) 661-5430 View (651) 661-5430
Photo of Amanda Boraas, LMFT, LADC, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amanda Boraas
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT, LADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Alcohol and Drug Counselor trained in Level 1 & 2 EMDR and AIR Network.
I offer one-on-one individual mental health counseling services for adults to work towards internal healing. I use a variety of interventions to enhance internal resources to face everyday life challenges. I focus on assisting clients build insight, acknowledge and understand repressed emotions, repair emotional wounds, and restore one's self worth.
I am a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Alcohol and Drug Counselor trained in Level 1 & 2 EMDR and AIR Network.
I offer one-on-one individual mental health counseling services for adults to work towards internal healing. I use a variety of interventions to enhance internal resources to face everyday life challenges. I focus on assisting clients build insight, acknowledge and understand repressed emotions, repair emotional wounds, and restore one's self worth.
(651) 504-3934 View (651) 504-3934
Photo of Holly Whitaker, LPCC-S, Counselor
Holly Whitaker
Counselor, LPCC-S
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55110
I have training in EMDR which is useful in treating trauma disorders.
Suffering. Sooner or later we all experience varying degrees of suffering. The world can be harsh and painful, especially when understanding is hard to find. Sometimes burdens become to great to carry alone. When searching for help you want someone caring to understand your struggle and unique situation. I work with people who are seeking help and treatment with life situations that are causing them distress either mentally, emotionally, physically and/or relationally.
I have training in EMDR which is useful in treating trauma disorders.
Suffering. Sooner or later we all experience varying degrees of suffering. The world can be harsh and painful, especially when understanding is hard to find. Sometimes burdens become to great to carry alone. When searching for help you want someone caring to understand your struggle and unique situation. I work with people who are seeking help and treatment with life situations that are causing them distress either mentally, emotionally, physically and/or relationally.
(651) 376-2940 View (651) 376-2940
Photo of Faten Hope Khoury - Twin Cities Mental Health&Couples Faten Khoury , Post, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Twin Cities Mental Health&Couples Faten Khoury
Marriage & Family Therapist, Post, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
For support in managing difficulties in your personal & professional lives caused by unresolved traumas or conflict, therapy can help. I work with individuals, couples, & families to help collaboratively tackle the challenges they are facing, through creating a new insight & forming an action, solution plan. Additionally, I practice EMDR therapy, AEDP, Brainspotting and Neurofeedback and find it powerful in healing a range of psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, shame and trauma and areas where clients experience "being stuck". My practice is based on years of well-established evidence-based effective treatments.
For support in managing difficulties in your personal & professional lives caused by unresolved traumas or conflict, therapy can help. I work with individuals, couples, & families to help collaboratively tackle the challenges they are facing, through creating a new insight & forming an action, solution plan. Additionally, I practice EMDR therapy, AEDP, Brainspotting and Neurofeedback and find it powerful in healing a range of psychological concerns including depression, anxiety, shame and trauma and areas where clients experience "being stuck". My practice is based on years of well-established evidence-based effective treatments.
(651) 760-5407 View (651) 760-5407
Photo of Kelly R Volkmann, LICSW, LADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kelly R Volkmann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LADC
Verified Verified
Saint Paul, MN 55110
CBT, DBT skills, EMDR, solution focused, family systems, and Motivational Interviewing.
Transformation happens within to create the life and freedom desired. For mental health and addictions, evidence based and wholistic practices are used within our clinic to produce desired change. Our mission is to provide a place of wellness and healing partnering with each client to provide individualized care in a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement. Sometimes past and present experiences form unhealthy beliefs, coping mechanisms, and relationship dynamics that get in the way of healing and living out your true potential of leading a life of joy, peace, and balance.
CBT, DBT skills, EMDR, solution focused, family systems, and Motivational Interviewing.
Transformation happens within to create the life and freedom desired. For mental health and addictions, evidence based and wholistic practices are used within our clinic to produce desired change. Our mission is to provide a place of wellness and healing partnering with each client to provide individualized care in a safe and supportive environment, free of judgement. Sometimes past and present experiences form unhealthy beliefs, coping mechanisms, and relationship dynamics that get in the way of healing and living out your true potential of leading a life of joy, peace, and balance.
(651) 252-4930 View (651) 252-4930
Photo of Chris James Heise, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chris James Heise
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Chris is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been providing therapeutic services for the past 18 years. He works with children, adolescents and adults with a number of therapeutic needs. He is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Theraplay. Chris has experience in a variety of areas with a focus on trauma, attachment disorders, depression, anxiety and ADHD.
Chris is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has been providing therapeutic services for the past 18 years. He works with children, adolescents and adults with a number of therapeutic needs. He is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), Narrative Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Theraplay. Chris has experience in a variety of areas with a focus on trauma, attachment disorders, depression, anxiety and ADHD.
(651) 615-2114 View (651) 615-2114
Photo of Pamela Graber, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Pamela Graber
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR which uses evidence based interventions to reduce anxiety quickly and efficiently in areas of performance enhancement, grief, shame, guilt, substance use disorders, and to increase self-esteem.
I am currently offering teletherapy. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help identify goals, create a plan, and help access the client's own strengths to find solutions. If your relationship is in pain, you and all family members may feel the impact. Whether you wish to learn how to increase a positive connection or repair a serious tear in that relationship, I will create a safe environment for you to resolve your differences, look at underlying causes of difficulties, and learn healthier and less reactive ways of relating to one another.
I am trained in EMDR which uses evidence based interventions to reduce anxiety quickly and efficiently in areas of performance enhancement, grief, shame, guilt, substance use disorders, and to increase self-esteem.
I am currently offering teletherapy. I work with individuals, couples, and families to help identify goals, create a plan, and help access the client's own strengths to find solutions. If your relationship is in pain, you and all family members may feel the impact. Whether you wish to learn how to increase a positive connection or repair a serious tear in that relationship, I will create a safe environment for you to resolve your differences, look at underlying causes of difficulties, and learn healthier and less reactive ways of relating to one another.
(651) 304-4421 View (651) 304-4421
Photo of Deanna L Towns, PhD, LPCS-NC, LPCC-MN, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Deanna L Towns
Licensed Professional Counselor, PhD, LPCS-NC, LPCC-MN, NCC
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55127
Not accepting new clients
I use an eclectic approach, including family systems, EMDR, emotionally-focused couples therapy, CBT, DBT, and psycho-dynamic techniques.
As a therapist, it is my goal to compassionately connect with clients and hear their stories. I will help clients identify personal strengths, define desired changes, and create an individualized plan to move toward health and wholeness. My clientele include families, couples, adults, adolescents, and children. I address trauma, sexual and emotional abuse, eating disorders, self-harm, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, communication issues, forgiveness, shame, cross-cultural stress & adjustment, ministry stress, and premarital counseling (using Prepare/Enrich).
I use an eclectic approach, including family systems, EMDR, emotionally-focused couples therapy, CBT, DBT, and psycho-dynamic techniques.
As a therapist, it is my goal to compassionately connect with clients and hear their stories. I will help clients identify personal strengths, define desired changes, and create an individualized plan to move toward health and wholeness. My clientele include families, couples, adults, adolescents, and children. I address trauma, sexual and emotional abuse, eating disorders, self-harm, anxiety, depression, grief and loss, communication issues, forgiveness, shame, cross-cultural stress & adjustment, ministry stress, and premarital counseling (using Prepare/Enrich).
(919) 648-1218 View (919) 648-1218
Photo of Claribel Torres Severson, PhD, NCC, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Claribel Torres Severson
Counselor, PhD, NCC, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Saint Paul, MN 55110
Waitlist for new clients
I focus on anxiety, depression, assertiveness, boundaries, NT/AS relationships or marital problems. Single incident trauma treated with EMDR. OCD treatment utilizing ERP and CBT. Se Habla Español. I am a native Spanish speaker able to translate and provide therapy in Spanish, as well as address acculturation difficulties for various ethnic groups. I am also a US Army veteran and personally understand many of the issues surrounding military life and culture.
I focus on anxiety, depression, assertiveness, boundaries, NT/AS relationships or marital problems. Single incident trauma treated with EMDR. OCD treatment utilizing ERP and CBT. Se Habla Español. I am a native Spanish speaker able to translate and provide therapy in Spanish, as well as address acculturation difficulties for various ethnic groups. I am also a US Army veteran and personally understand many of the issues surrounding military life and culture.
(218) 427-6066 View (218) 427-6066
Photo of Carol Ladd, MSW, LICSW, LSSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carol Ladd
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, LSSW
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Not accepting new clients
I am fully trained in EMDR, AFOT and several other modalities with emphasis on Person Centered Care.
During the course of our lifetime, we all will face an event that leaves a lasting impact. It may be a loss of a loved one or traumatic episode. An event that can leave lasting false messages about ourselves and our world. Therapy can assist in providing insight and perspective that promote healing and change. As a Native American Female therapist, I will provide culturally sensitive/appropriate services with a focus on Person Centered, Strength based, Relational care. I will provide a safe space for you and serve as your guide on your path to healing and self realization.
I am fully trained in EMDR, AFOT and several other modalities with emphasis on Person Centered Care.
During the course of our lifetime, we all will face an event that leaves a lasting impact. It may be a loss of a loved one or traumatic episode. An event that can leave lasting false messages about ourselves and our world. Therapy can assist in providing insight and perspective that promote healing and change. As a Native American Female therapist, I will provide culturally sensitive/appropriate services with a focus on Person Centered, Strength based, Relational care. I will provide a safe space for you and serve as your guide on your path to healing and self realization.
(651) 689-5058 View (651) 689-5058
Photo of Rachel L Kusilek - Sunstone Counseling LLC, MA, LPCC, Counselor
Sunstone Counseling LLC
Counselor, MA, LPCC
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55110
Rachel specializes in body-based trauma therapy techniques including EMDR and Somatic Experiencing.
Let's Do This Together! Rachel (she/her) connects with clients from a place of acceptance using humor and warmth to make the therapeutic process collaborative and comfortable. Rachel takes a systemic perspective striving to understand how an individual’s difficulties and symptoms arise from their life experiences and relationships. She views the therapeutic process as a way to come alongside clients in an effort to improve their satisfaction with life and relationships. Rachel specializes in trauma, perinatal mental health, adolescents, child anxiety.
Rachel specializes in body-based trauma therapy techniques including EMDR and Somatic Experiencing.
Let's Do This Together! Rachel (she/her) connects with clients from a place of acceptance using humor and warmth to make the therapeutic process collaborative and comfortable. Rachel takes a systemic perspective striving to understand how an individual’s difficulties and symptoms arise from their life experiences and relationships. She views the therapeutic process as a way to come alongside clients in an effort to improve their satisfaction with life and relationships. Rachel specializes in trauma, perinatal mental health, adolescents, child anxiety.
(651) 383-9324 View (651) 383-9324
Photo of Leanne Mairs, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Leanne Mairs
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
White Bear Lake, MN 55127
My approach is focused on the solutions you want to achieve. When you work with me, we will articulate what it is you want and need to move forward, and then we will harvest the unique strengths you already have to get there. We will collaborate on changing the aspects of your behavior that are not working for you. My approach does not begin and end with problems or the past—we only make those inquiries in order to frame solutions for the present. My work draws from several theoretical frameworks, including CBT, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, CPT, and EMDR to help you achieve your goals and aspirations
My approach is focused on the solutions you want to achieve. When you work with me, we will articulate what it is you want and need to move forward, and then we will harvest the unique strengths you already have to get there. We will collaborate on changing the aspects of your behavior that are not working for you. My approach does not begin and end with problems or the past—we only make those inquiries in order to frame solutions for the present. My work draws from several theoretical frameworks, including CBT, Internal Family Systems, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, CPT, and EMDR to help you achieve your goals and aspirations
(651) 433-6415 View (651) 433-6415
Photo of Jack Stoltzfus - Family Behavioral Healthcare, PhD, Psychologist
Family Behavioral Healthcare
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
North Oaks, MN 55127  (Online Only)
I am America's Launch Coach. Today's parents struggle with how much to support and how much to let go of young adult children. Parents are closer to and more invested in the success of their kids than past generations. It's harder for both parents and young adults to let go. Young adults struggle with depression, anxiety, and trying to succeed in school and life in general. COVID-19 and the depressed economy stress families and lead to greater rates of depression and anxiety, and complicate the normal launch process. I work with both parents and young adults, depending upon who is seeking help.
I am America's Launch Coach. Today's parents struggle with how much to support and how much to let go of young adult children. Parents are closer to and more invested in the success of their kids than past generations. It's harder for both parents and young adults to let go. Young adults struggle with depression, anxiety, and trying to succeed in school and life in general. COVID-19 and the depressed economy stress families and lead to greater rates of depression and anxiety, and complicate the normal launch process. I work with both parents and young adults, depending upon who is seeking help.
(651) 968-1260 View (651) 968-1260

See more therapy options for Vadnais Heights

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.