EMDR Therapists in Lincolnton, NC

Photo of Andrew H Berger - Harris Counseling and Consulting PLLC, LCSW, CCTP, EMDR, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Harris Counseling and Consulting PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP, EMDR, MSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092  (Online Only)
, EMDR therapist, a clinical trauma professional.
I have been successfully treating clients in therapy for over twenty years. The clients I work with prior to enrolling in treatment express that they feel frustrated, ignored and helpless. I provide individual, couple, and family telehealth therapy. I have treated clients who have experienced physical, emotional, and sexual trauma. I also treat clients with anxiety, anger, communication, depression, and men's issues. My clients see significant improvement and develop tools and skills over time in treatment. I'm very proactive in my person centered approach.
, EMDR therapist, a clinical trauma professional.
I have been successfully treating clients in therapy for over twenty years. The clients I work with prior to enrolling in treatment express that they feel frustrated, ignored and helpless. I provide individual, couple, and family telehealth therapy. I have treated clients who have experienced physical, emotional, and sexual trauma. I also treat clients with anxiety, anger, communication, depression, and men's issues. My clients see significant improvement and develop tools and skills over time in treatment. I'm very proactive in my person centered approach.
(704) 610-2965 View (704) 610-2965
Photo of Isis Reddick-Umoja, LCMHCS, Licensed Professional Counselor
Isis Reddick-Umoja
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHCS
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Isis has over 25 years of counseling experience. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy which is a specialized therapy used to treat childhood, adolescent and adult trauma. She is also trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which is a comprehensive cognitive behavioral therapy used to help people with emotional dysregulation. Isis is passionate about serving a diverse population of clients, including the LGBTQ+ community and underserved populations.
Isis has over 25 years of counseling experience. She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy which is a specialized therapy used to treat childhood, adolescent and adult trauma. She is also trained in Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) which is a comprehensive cognitive behavioral therapy used to help people with emotional dysregulation. Isis is passionate about serving a diverse population of clients, including the LGBTQ+ community and underserved populations.
(704) 480-3819 View (704) 480-3819
Photo of Sylvia Vang, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sylvia Vang
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnton, NC 28092  (Online Only)
My approach to therapy is through a trauma informed lens utilizing EMDR and integrating parts work therapy strategies.
You just want to feel better but there are parts of you that keep you in this vicious cycle of negative beliefs, self-doubt, unproductive patterns, and overthinking. You may feel ashamed and alone as you’re faced with challenges and uncertainties at home, work, or in your relationships. Perhaps you’re trying to make sense of your emotional pain from an unhappy childhood, stressful life experience, distressing memories, and/or unresolved issues. You are tired of living this way and you are ready to develop more compassion and empowerment to support yourself so that you can start feeling better, lighter, and more free.
My approach to therapy is through a trauma informed lens utilizing EMDR and integrating parts work therapy strategies.
You just want to feel better but there are parts of you that keep you in this vicious cycle of negative beliefs, self-doubt, unproductive patterns, and overthinking. You may feel ashamed and alone as you’re faced with challenges and uncertainties at home, work, or in your relationships. Perhaps you’re trying to make sense of your emotional pain from an unhappy childhood, stressful life experience, distressing memories, and/or unresolved issues. You are tired of living this way and you are ready to develop more compassion and empowerment to support yourself so that you can start feeling better, lighter, and more free.
(828) 330-9398 View (828) 330-9398
Photo of Juliya Eileen Whitley, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Juliya Eileen Whitley
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28093
Waitlist for new clients
I utilize CBT, DBT, EMDR, Prepare/Enrich, and Christian counseling.
So, you are here, which means you are looking for a therapist or counselor that can actually help you. You have been struggling with your symptoms for so long that you don’t want to risk picking someone that is not going to understand you, much less help you find the relief you’ve wanted. Whether you are looking for mental peace, motivation to resume being you, relief from the negative thoughts and images in your mind, the feeling of being present in your life, healing or growth in your relationships, or success in your weight loss journey, I can help you!
I utilize CBT, DBT, EMDR, Prepare/Enrich, and Christian counseling.
So, you are here, which means you are looking for a therapist or counselor that can actually help you. You have been struggling with your symptoms for so long that you don’t want to risk picking someone that is not going to understand you, much less help you find the relief you’ve wanted. Whether you are looking for mental peace, motivation to resume being you, relief from the negative thoughts and images in your mind, the feeling of being present in your life, healing or growth in your relationships, or success in your weight loss journey, I can help you!
(980) 689-6352 View (980) 689-6352
Photo of Tenisha Ross - A New Beginning Therapy Center, PLLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
A New Beginning Therapy Center, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28093
Waitlist for new clients
I am an EMDR practitioner and a national certified trauma focused cognitive behavior therapist.
Life is a journey that is cultivated by various experiences that may put you in a place facing depression, anxiety and other forms of mental illness that may seem to be unbearable. My approach to counseling is driven by a strength based perspective. I look forward to assisting you through emotional processing by tapping into your personal inner strength of resilience to carry you through this journey which is most often referred to as life itself.
I am an EMDR practitioner and a national certified trauma focused cognitive behavior therapist.
Life is a journey that is cultivated by various experiences that may put you in a place facing depression, anxiety and other forms of mental illness that may seem to be unbearable. My approach to counseling is driven by a strength based perspective. I look forward to assisting you through emotional processing by tapping into your personal inner strength of resilience to carry you through this journey which is most often referred to as life itself.
(980) 295-1231 View (980) 295-1231
Photo of John L Adriatico, MBA, MA, MFT, LCMHC, LCAS, Licensed Professional Counselor
John L Adriatico
Licensed Professional Counselor, MBA, MA, MFT, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnton, NC 28092  (Online Only)
Life is a journey and sometimes we struggle with its trials. I offer a holistic approach to counseling and help adults, children, teens, families, and couples. If you or a love one is struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, marriage difficulties, addictions, Domestic Violence (verbal, physical, financial, and emotional abuse), family or friends that are abusive, grief and loss, self-esteem problems, divorce, spirituality, and parenting difficulties there is hope at: Counsel For Hope.
Life is a journey and sometimes we struggle with its trials. I offer a holistic approach to counseling and help adults, children, teens, families, and couples. If you or a love one is struggling with depression, ADHD, anxiety, marriage difficulties, addictions, Domestic Violence (verbal, physical, financial, and emotional abuse), family or friends that are abusive, grief and loss, self-esteem problems, divorce, spirituality, and parenting difficulties there is hope at: Counsel For Hope.
(704) 981-4378 View (704) 981-4378
Photo of Colleen Collins, LCMHC
Colleen Collins
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Colleen Collins is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from Liberty University, first earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, followed by earning her Master's degree in Professional Counseling. Colleen uses person-centered therapy offering unconditional positive regard, empathy, and genuineness as she helps her clients navigate their unique issues and struggles. Because of her many personal experiences, Colleen can relate to most situations and offer techniques and solutions which have helped her as well as others.
Colleen Collins is a Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor in North Carolina who has been practicing since 2017. She graduated from Liberty University, first earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology, followed by earning her Master's degree in Professional Counseling. Colleen uses person-centered therapy offering unconditional positive regard, empathy, and genuineness as she helps her clients navigate their unique issues and struggles. Because of her many personal experiences, Colleen can relate to most situations and offer techniques and solutions which have helped her as well as others.
(704) 389-5813 View (704) 389-5813
Photo of Lane K Griffith, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Lane K Griffith
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
Not accepting new clients
Life can be joyous and full of possibilities, as well as confusing, and at times, devastating. My goal is to help adolescents and adults successfully navigate the challenges of life to find peace and healing. I welcome clients of all backgrounds, and provide a safe, non-judgmental place to help you find your light and strength.
Life can be joyous and full of possibilities, as well as confusing, and at times, devastating. My goal is to help adolescents and adults successfully navigate the challenges of life to find peace and healing. I welcome clients of all backgrounds, and provide a safe, non-judgmental place to help you find your light and strength.
(704) 207-0083 View (704) 207-0083
Photo of Shan Bassion - CTSHealth Integrated Wellness, LCSW, LCAS, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
CTSHealth Integrated Wellness
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCAS
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
CTSHealth Integrative Wellness Clinic supports the clinical views of the Integrated Care Model, Person Centered Thinking, System of Care and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. With these approaches, we’re able to identify and increase the emotional, cognitive, social, and psychological functioning of our clients. We provide guidance, education, and skills to caregivers to become better equipped to assist individuals in their care. Our professional teams are committed to safeguarding the continuity of care through collaboration with all participants involved in assisting the client through the treatment process.
CTSHealth Integrative Wellness Clinic supports the clinical views of the Integrated Care Model, Person Centered Thinking, System of Care and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. With these approaches, we’re able to identify and increase the emotional, cognitive, social, and psychological functioning of our clients. We provide guidance, education, and skills to caregivers to become better equipped to assist individuals in their care. Our professional teams are committed to safeguarding the continuity of care through collaboration with all participants involved in assisting the client through the treatment process.
(828) 655-7849 View (828) 655-7849
Photo of Christine L Reed, MA, LCMHC, RPT
Christine L Reed
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, RPT
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
I am a Licensed Clinical MH Counselor and Registered Play Therapist specializing in treating children, parents, and women of all ages. Having previously taught kindergarten and serving as a school counselor, I am very familiar with childhood issues and well-equipped to address them. I help women, children, and parents develop effective strategies to manage emotional and behavioral issues; as well as resolve root issues behind repeated patterns of failure in their lives. My goal is to remove hindrances to help individuals reach their full potential in life.
I am a Licensed Clinical MH Counselor and Registered Play Therapist specializing in treating children, parents, and women of all ages. Having previously taught kindergarten and serving as a school counselor, I am very familiar with childhood issues and well-equipped to address them. I help women, children, and parents develop effective strategies to manage emotional and behavioral issues; as well as resolve root issues behind repeated patterns of failure in their lives. My goal is to remove hindrances to help individuals reach their full potential in life.
(828) 268-3244 View (828) 268-3244
Photo of Laura Gundel - New Hope Counseling and Wellness, LCMHC, NCC, Counselor
New Hope Counseling and Wellness
Counselor, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
Lincolnton, NC 28092
At New Hope Counseling and Wellness, we offer a professional approach for individuals, couples, and families who are looking for lasting results. Whether you are an adult or youth struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or have found yourself in a difficult situation and feel lost, you are in the right place.
At New Hope Counseling and Wellness, we offer a professional approach for individuals, couples, and families who are looking for lasting results. Whether you are an adult or youth struggling with feelings of sadness, anxiety, or have found yourself in a difficult situation and feel lost, you are in the right place.
(704) 912-1429 View (704) 912-1429

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Bre Padgett, LCMHC, LCAS
Bre Padgett
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, LCMHC, LCAS
Verified Verified
Maiden, NC 28650
I have certification in EMDR and specialize in addiction, trauma, attachment, relationship challenges, family work, PTSD, and depression/anxiety.
When I started working in therapy, I often worked with people who felt “stuck”. Stuck in the rudimentary day-to-day life, cycle of unhealthy patterns, or struggling to cope after a tragedy. It seemed as though traditional talk therapy just wasn’t helping, no matter how many different things we tried. Clients were wanting something deeper, a more meaningful experience. A lot of people felt hopeless. Then… I saw the same individuals interact with horses. And that's when the magic happened. I knew the transformative healing that could happen through equine therapy.
I have certification in EMDR and specialize in addiction, trauma, attachment, relationship challenges, family work, PTSD, and depression/anxiety.
When I started working in therapy, I often worked with people who felt “stuck”. Stuck in the rudimentary day-to-day life, cycle of unhealthy patterns, or struggling to cope after a tragedy. It seemed as though traditional talk therapy just wasn’t helping, no matter how many different things we tried. Clients were wanting something deeper, a more meaningful experience. A lot of people felt hopeless. Then… I saw the same individuals interact with horses. And that's when the magic happened. I knew the transformative healing that could happen through equine therapy.
(828) 408-0065 View (828) 408-0065

Online Therapists

Photo of Kyle Ferlic, MA, LCMHC, CSAT, EMDR, ADHD
Kyle Ferlic
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCMHC, CSAT, EMDR, ADHD
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Davidson, NC 28036
I have accreditations in EMDR, Seeking Safety, Triple P, RPC, PS-R, and IATP-F.
Your pain can be purposeful. Through therapy, I want to journey with you to bring fuller awareness to your struggles, then highlight opportunities to overcome them using your strengths. I trust in the power of the therapeutic relationship, and I commit to show you empathy, genuineness, and acceptance while being your accountability partner in counseling. Collaboratively, we can create a new story that aligns with your goals. As well as being a licensed counselor, I am also a Qualified Supervisor in NC.
I have accreditations in EMDR, Seeking Safety, Triple P, RPC, PS-R, and IATP-F.
Your pain can be purposeful. Through therapy, I want to journey with you to bring fuller awareness to your struggles, then highlight opportunities to overcome them using your strengths. I trust in the power of the therapeutic relationship, and I commit to show you empathy, genuineness, and acceptance while being your accountability partner in counseling. Collaboratively, we can create a new story that aligns with your goals. As well as being a licensed counselor, I am also a Qualified Supervisor in NC.
(980) 409-2014 View (980) 409-2014
Photo of Amy Holland, MA, LCMHCA, NCC, Counselor
Amy Holland
Counselor, MA, LCMHCA, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winston Salem, NC 27106  (Online Only)
I offer EMDR which can help heal the wounds from traumatic experiences as well as target self-limiting beliefs that keep people stuck.
Few of us are lucky enough to go through life without challenges or suffering. This is true for me personally. Like me, you may need help from a therapist during life’s harder moments, someone you can trust who is compassionate, nonjudgemental, and empathetic. I specialize in helping people process and heal from the difficult situations that can come up in life. I also enjoying helping people recover from upsetting or traumatic experiences in the past that may be keeping them from feeling their best now.
I offer EMDR which can help heal the wounds from traumatic experiences as well as target self-limiting beliefs that keep people stuck.
Few of us are lucky enough to go through life without challenges or suffering. This is true for me personally. Like me, you may need help from a therapist during life’s harder moments, someone you can trust who is compassionate, nonjudgemental, and empathetic. I specialize in helping people process and heal from the difficult situations that can come up in life. I also enjoying helping people recover from upsetting or traumatic experiences in the past that may be keeping them from feeling their best now.
(336) 895-1857 View (336) 895-1857
Photo of Elizabeth Poplin, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
Elizabeth Poplin
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MA, LCAS, LCMHC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28210
I am fully trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
We all have had experiences in our lives that have made us feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, alone or even broken. These experiences have caused a conflict within ourselves and have expanded to important areas of our lives. Adapting to these feelings is a challenge and reaching out for help is even more challenging. The key to healing, both emotional and psychological, is creating a relationship with ourselves and others that helps foster compassion and hope. Change is a process but taking this journey with someone, in a safe and non-judgmental space, allows for the mind to start the healing process.
I am fully trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
We all have had experiences in our lives that have made us feel overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, alone or even broken. These experiences have caused a conflict within ourselves and have expanded to important areas of our lives. Adapting to these feelings is a challenge and reaching out for help is even more challenging. The key to healing, both emotional and psychological, is creating a relationship with ourselves and others that helps foster compassion and hope. Change is a process but taking this journey with someone, in a safe and non-judgmental space, allows for the mind to start the healing process.
(704) 251-9855 x4 View (704) 251-9855 x4
Photo of Vicki Conner, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Vicki Conner
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MS, LCMHC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greensboro, NC 27403
By utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and Mindfulness techniques, Vicki reports "miracles happen".
Welcome! Vicki's practice primarily focuses on adults who suffer from symptoms associated with trauma. While various events in life may cause post traumatic stress, Vicki has learned that symptoms often begin early in life through family neglect or other difficult family relations. If your emotions and esteem feel challenged by early traumatic experiences and memories, know that you do not have to spend the rest of life getting over childhood. Vicki has tools to share with you that she believes can help.
By utilizing Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR and Mindfulness techniques, Vicki reports "miracles happen".
Welcome! Vicki's practice primarily focuses on adults who suffer from symptoms associated with trauma. While various events in life may cause post traumatic stress, Vicki has learned that symptoms often begin early in life through family neglect or other difficult family relations. If your emotions and esteem feel challenged by early traumatic experiences and memories, know that you do not have to spend the rest of life getting over childhood. Vicki has tools to share with you that she believes can help.
(336) 844-4106 View (336) 844-4106
Photo of John Samuel Caprell, LCMHC, Licensed Professional Counselor
John Samuel Caprell
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28803
I have received training in EMDR, a very effective therapy for healing traumas and overcoming limiting beliefs.
As a gay man, I have a strong affinity for building therapeutic relationships with those who feel marginalized, such as the "Black Sheep" of the family and adults who identify as part of the LGBGTQ+ community. As well as with individuals that no longer resonate with values and religious/spiritual beliefs of their family of origin. I mainly enjoy working with clients who realize therapy is not a "quick fix" and are willing to put quality time/energy into learning about themselves and healing. I am also licensed for Telehealth with South Carolina ,
I have received training in EMDR, a very effective therapy for healing traumas and overcoming limiting beliefs.
As a gay man, I have a strong affinity for building therapeutic relationships with those who feel marginalized, such as the "Black Sheep" of the family and adults who identify as part of the LGBGTQ+ community. As well as with individuals that no longer resonate with values and religious/spiritual beliefs of their family of origin. I mainly enjoy working with clients who realize therapy is not a "quick fix" and are willing to put quality time/energy into learning about themselves and healing. I am also licensed for Telehealth with South Carolina ,
(828) 492-2543 View (828) 492-2543
Photo of Georgia DeFrancia, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Georgia DeFrancia
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28806
My counseling specialties include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Brainspotting and Attachment Focused modalities.
Welcome! It takes courage to enter into counseling and I am so glad you are here! I believe that your unique life experiences guide how you build relationships with yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy gives you an opportunity to more deeply understand these relationships as well as your feelings, behaviors, and thoughts. As a clinician I believe that you possess the innate wisdom, strengths and skills that you need. My role is to help guide you back to this wisdom to help you create the life you want.
My counseling specialties include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Brainspotting and Attachment Focused modalities.
Welcome! It takes courage to enter into counseling and I am so glad you are here! I believe that your unique life experiences guide how you build relationships with yourself, others and the world around you. Therapy gives you an opportunity to more deeply understand these relationships as well as your feelings, behaviors, and thoughts. As a clinician I believe that you possess the innate wisdom, strengths and skills that you need. My role is to help guide you back to this wisdom to help you create the life you want.
(828) 332-5678 View (828) 332-5678
Photo of Evonne Jenkins-Hough - Mended Counseling & Consultation, PLLC, LCSW, LISW-CP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Mended Counseling & Consultation, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-CP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28262
Our staff are members are Level II Internal Family Systems and/or EMDR therapist.
Accepting New Clients. We help adults transcend their current and past painful experiences to create healthier relationships with themselves and others. Are you struggling to relate to others? Are you not feeling fulfilled with your current life? Do you feel disconnected from family and friends? Do you find it difficult to make and keep relationships? Do you give and give in hopes of others giving back to you? Do your thoughts and emotions stop you from moving forward? Does any of this cause you to spend more time alone or cloud your judgement? We can help.
Our staff are members are Level II Internal Family Systems and/or EMDR therapist.
Accepting New Clients. We help adults transcend their current and past painful experiences to create healthier relationships with themselves and others. Are you struggling to relate to others? Are you not feeling fulfilled with your current life? Do you feel disconnected from family and friends? Do you find it difficult to make and keep relationships? Do you give and give in hopes of others giving back to you? Do your thoughts and emotions stop you from moving forward? Does any of this cause you to spend more time alone or cloud your judgement? We can help.
(704) 703-6979 View (704) 703-6979
Photo of Alicia Marie Hyde, LCSW-A, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alicia Marie Hyde
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-A
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Mooresville, NC 28117
I value a strength based perspective and utilize CBT, DBT, and EMDR .
I am a compassionate therapist who enjoys working with people of all ages and backgrounds.The decision to seek therapy can be a difficult one. This decision represents courage and the desire to have a more fulfilling life. Perhaps you are struggling with life challenges, loss or past trauma.
I value a strength based perspective and utilize CBT, DBT, and EMDR .
I am a compassionate therapist who enjoys working with people of all ages and backgrounds.The decision to seek therapy can be a difficult one. This decision represents courage and the desire to have a more fulfilling life. Perhaps you are struggling with life challenges, loss or past trauma.
(704) 842-9930 View (704) 842-9930
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.