EMDR Therapists in South Kingstown, RI

Photo of Madrone B. Phoenix, LICSW, RYT, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Madrone B. Phoenix
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, RYT, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
South Kingstown, RI 02879  (Online Only)
We offer many eclectic and innovative treatment options, including EMDR, IFS, art therapy, Somatics, and more.
Our group practice centralizes care for People of Color, Queer, Transgender, Nonbinary, Neurodivergent, and Disabled communities. We are BIPOC & QT2S+ led. As integrative, holistic healers, we help you work through life adjustments, anxiety, depression, and trauma. If you are entering a process of self-exploration and want to own your place and identity in this world with skilled providers who mirror you, welcome home. Together, we'll discover the parts of you that need to be witnessed, healed, released, and cleared so you can reclaim and empower the parts that have been neglected, forgotten, or ignored.
We offer many eclectic and innovative treatment options, including EMDR, IFS, art therapy, Somatics, and more.
Our group practice centralizes care for People of Color, Queer, Transgender, Nonbinary, Neurodivergent, and Disabled communities. We are BIPOC & QT2S+ led. As integrative, holistic healers, we help you work through life adjustments, anxiety, depression, and trauma. If you are entering a process of self-exploration and want to own your place and identity in this world with skilled providers who mirror you, welcome home. Together, we'll discover the parts of you that need to be witnessed, healed, released, and cleared so you can reclaim and empower the parts that have been neglected, forgotten, or ignored.
(401) 320-4081 View (401) 320-4081
Photo of Judith Clarke, MEd, LMHC
Judith Clarke
Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Kingstown, RI 02879
I am trained in hypnosis and NLP, gestalt and EMDR.
Are you feeling overwelmed with life issues or want to know yourself better in a deeper way? I have over 30 years experience in assisting clients find a sacredness in their life journeys whether individually, through a group process, or with their significant other. I work best with people who want to bring joy and contentment to their life but feel stuck in how to do that. I love working with couples in getting the love they want as I am an Imago couples therapist. I also work with people stuck in addictions, as well as those with trauma.
I am trained in hypnosis and NLP, gestalt and EMDR.
Are you feeling overwelmed with life issues or want to know yourself better in a deeper way? I have over 30 years experience in assisting clients find a sacredness in their life journeys whether individually, through a group process, or with their significant other. I work best with people who want to bring joy and contentment to their life but feel stuck in how to do that. I love working with couples in getting the love they want as I am an Imago couples therapist. I also work with people stuck in addictions, as well as those with trauma.
(401) 305-4750 View (401) 305-4750
Photo of Tara Rondeau, MS, LCDP, Drug & Alcohol Counselor
Tara Rondeau
Drug & Alcohol Counselor, MS, LCDP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Kingstown, RI 02879
I work with a combination of therapies, and offer EMDR.
You have taken the first step to a brighter future, congratulations! I can help you to find the answers you have been looking for and the support you need to move forward. If you are an adult struggling with substance abuse or Mental Health issues we can work together to figure the best way through whatever brings you in with a non-judgmental welcoming practice. I am offering both In person and telehealth sessions. I am accepting new patients.
I work with a combination of therapies, and offer EMDR.
You have taken the first step to a brighter future, congratulations! I can help you to find the answers you have been looking for and the support you need to move forward. If you are an adult struggling with substance abuse or Mental Health issues we can work together to figure the best way through whatever brings you in with a non-judgmental welcoming practice. I am offering both In person and telehealth sessions. I am accepting new patients.
(401) 208-0571 View (401) 208-0571
Photo of Charlotte A Ringwood - heART & Soul Healing Art Studio LLC, LMHC, ATR, Counselor
heART & Soul Healing Art Studio LLC
Counselor, LMHC, ATR
Verified Verified
South Kingstown, RI 02879
She is trained in TF-CBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), Exposure Therapy, and Foster Care and Adoption Clinical Issues.
At heART & Soul Healing Art Studio, we believe in helping individuals work toward their goals to increase happiness and feelings of wholeness and decrease undesirable feelings, thoughts and behaviors. We understand how difficult this journey may be. We take a holistic approach to assist people in their journey toward healing. In our Art Therapy based studio, individuals of all ability levels will engage in Art Therapy with their clinician to work toward optimal health and healing and growth.
She is trained in TF-CBT (trauma focused cognitive behavioral therapy), EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing), Exposure Therapy, and Foster Care and Adoption Clinical Issues.
At heART & Soul Healing Art Studio, we believe in helping individuals work toward their goals to increase happiness and feelings of wholeness and decrease undesirable feelings, thoughts and behaviors. We understand how difficult this journey may be. We take a holistic approach to assist people in their journey toward healing. In our Art Therapy based studio, individuals of all ability levels will engage in Art Therapy with their clinician to work toward optimal health and healing and growth.
(401) 320-4215 View (401) 320-4215
Photo of Madrone Bayan Phoenix - The Phoenix Rising Centers, LICSW, LMFT, LMHC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
The Phoenix Rising Centers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, LMFT, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Kingstown, RI 02879  (Online Only)
We offer a wide range of eclectic and innovative treatment options such as IFS, EMDR, art therapy, dream analysis and Somatics.
We are a multiethnic and multiracial group practice that centralizes care for BIPoC and LGBTQIA+ communities. Clients who come to us are working though life challenges related to their identities. They are often in a process of self-exploration, working to make sense of their place and identity in the world where they are made to feel like "the other" and have been marginalized, traumatized, and blatantly microaggressed. We recognize the importance of finding providers who get it, from a shared and lived experience. Here, our aim is connect communities of color and queer communities with providers of color and queer providers.
We offer a wide range of eclectic and innovative treatment options such as IFS, EMDR, art therapy, dream analysis and Somatics.
We are a multiethnic and multiracial group practice that centralizes care for BIPoC and LGBTQIA+ communities. Clients who come to us are working though life challenges related to their identities. They are often in a process of self-exploration, working to make sense of their place and identity in the world where they are made to feel like "the other" and have been marginalized, traumatized, and blatantly microaggressed. We recognize the importance of finding providers who get it, from a shared and lived experience. Here, our aim is connect communities of color and queer communities with providers of color and queer providers.
(281) 609-3821 View (281) 609-3821
Photo of Cynthia M Mittelmeier, PhD, Psychologist
Cynthia M Mittelmeier
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
South Kingstown, RI 02879
I am a clinical psychologist with 30+ years of experience. I am licensed in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Many of us want to feel better, think more clearly, and feel that our outside self reflects our values. Are you experiencing emotions (or a lack of them) that are causing you to feel stuck and dragged down? Learning to be curious about yourself and the world, being introspective, and expressing emotional vulnerability will help you discover new ways to make lasting change. You can learn new skills and change your behavior, leading you to become more resilient, joyful, and optimistic.
I am a clinical psychologist with 30+ years of experience. I am licensed in both Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Many of us want to feel better, think more clearly, and feel that our outside self reflects our values. Are you experiencing emotions (or a lack of them) that are causing you to feel stuck and dragged down? Learning to be curious about yourself and the world, being introspective, and expressing emotional vulnerability will help you discover new ways to make lasting change. You can learn new skills and change your behavior, leading you to become more resilient, joyful, and optimistic.
(401) 246-7085 View (401) 246-7085
Photo of Lauren W Acquino, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Lauren W Acquino
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Kingstown, RI 02879
Lauren W. Acquino is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2019. She received a Bachelor of Fine Arts at School of Visual Arts then later in life moved to Florida to gain a Masters in Social Work at University of Central Florida. Everyone needs someone to talk to. Sometimes it needs to be with someone who is solely invested in just you. Whether it is to process some situational depression, address substance use struggles, or to explore deep, complex trauma.
Lauren W. Acquino is a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island who has been practicing since 2019. She received a Bachelor of Fine Arts at School of Visual Arts then later in life moved to Florida to gain a Masters in Social Work at University of Central Florida. Everyone needs someone to talk to. Sometimes it needs to be with someone who is solely invested in just you. Whether it is to process some situational depression, address substance use struggles, or to explore deep, complex trauma.
(401) 830-9272 View (401) 830-9272
Photo of Kimberly Minton, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kimberly Minton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Kingstown, RI 02879  (Online Only)
I am an independently licensed clinician aiming to provide many clients with care. I am passionate about providing excellent care to vulnerable communities and individuals who traditionally have not have access. I'm here to walk with you on your path to well-being. As a mental health professional, my practice centers around evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). I specialize in providing support for anxiety, depression, and disordered eating, tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs.
I am an independently licensed clinician aiming to provide many clients with care. I am passionate about providing excellent care to vulnerable communities and individuals who traditionally have not have access. I'm here to walk with you on your path to well-being. As a mental health professional, my practice centers around evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as ACT (Acceptance and Commitment Therapy) and CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy). I specialize in providing support for anxiety, depression, and disordered eating, tailoring my approach to meet your unique needs.
(662) 876-2501 View (662) 876-2501
Photo of Norma L. Welitoff, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Norma L. Welitoff
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Kingstown, RI 02879
Are you or a family member struggling with depression, anxiety, conflict with your relationship(s), or issues of loss and grief? Do you struggle with managing the daily stresses in your life? I treat men, women, teens, and children in individual, couples, and family therapy. Areas of care include stress management, life transitions, depression, PTSD, anxiety, marital / divorce, grief, trauma, chronic and terminal illness, self esteem, parenting, behavioral problems, verbal, emotional, and sexual abuse.
Are you or a family member struggling with depression, anxiety, conflict with your relationship(s), or issues of loss and grief? Do you struggle with managing the daily stresses in your life? I treat men, women, teens, and children in individual, couples, and family therapy. Areas of care include stress management, life transitions, depression, PTSD, anxiety, marital / divorce, grief, trauma, chronic and terminal illness, self esteem, parenting, behavioral problems, verbal, emotional, and sexual abuse.
(401) 287-2015 View (401) 287-2015
Photo of Starlett Armstrong, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Starlett Armstrong
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
South Kingstown, RI 02879  (Online Only)
Therapy is a collaborative/interactive process that allows you the freedom as well as the privacy to discuss issues that are too painful or difficult to discuss with your family and/or friends. Together, we will explore what brings you distress as well as what brings you relief. Therapy is designed to help empower you to accomplish mental health wellness and treatment goals. For therapy to be most effective, it is imperative that you take an active part in your treatment journey.
Therapy is a collaborative/interactive process that allows you the freedom as well as the privacy to discuss issues that are too painful or difficult to discuss with your family and/or friends. Together, we will explore what brings you distress as well as what brings you relief. Therapy is designed to help empower you to accomplish mental health wellness and treatment goals. For therapy to be most effective, it is imperative that you take an active part in your treatment journey.
(401) 235-4506 View (401) 235-4506
Photo of Karen M Connors, ACSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Karen M Connors
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ACSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
South Kingstown, RI 02879
Not accepting new clients
I am EMDR Level II certified; a targeted intervention for the treatment of physical, sexual and emotional trauma.
With over 40 years of practice in psychotherapy, I have treated many different types of people and problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and dissociation. I have treated couples and families struggling to preserve their connections.
I am EMDR Level II certified; a targeted intervention for the treatment of physical, sexual and emotional trauma.
With over 40 years of practice in psychotherapy, I have treated many different types of people and problems such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and dissociation. I have treated couples and families struggling to preserve their connections.
(401) 246-4024 View (401) 246-4024
Photo of Allison Ravech, MSW, LICSW, AAT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Allison Ravech
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW, AAT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Kingstown, RI 02878
Not accepting new clients
I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach tailored to each client, drawing from various modalities such as IFS and EMDR.
You may find yourself grappling with life decisions or carrying unresolved pain from your past or present. Perhaps you're questioning how past experiences affect your relationships, mood, and life choices. You may be uncertain about who you are and wanting to gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Whether it's your first therapy experience or a return for hopes of deeper exploration, I'm here to support your journey.
I utilize an integrative therapeutic approach tailored to each client, drawing from various modalities such as IFS and EMDR.
You may find yourself grappling with life decisions or carrying unresolved pain from your past or present. Perhaps you're questioning how past experiences affect your relationships, mood, and life choices. You may be uncertain about who you are and wanting to gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Whether it's your first therapy experience or a return for hopes of deeper exploration, I'm here to support your journey.
(401) 648-2150 View (401) 648-2150
Photo of Amy Simpson, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Amy Simpson
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Kingstown, RI 02879  (Online Only)
Not accepting new clients
***** NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ***** Amy Simpson has expertise in both individual and relationship therapy. She has had specialized training in premarital, parental, and family coaching and counseling. Clients choose to see Amy for many different reasons, but most want help in setting and achieving both individual and relationship goals. The aim of her work with individuals is to help them to breakthrough negative belief patterns, to act more decisively, and to set goals to help them create the life they want.
***** NOT ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS ***** Amy Simpson has expertise in both individual and relationship therapy. She has had specialized training in premarital, parental, and family coaching and counseling. Clients choose to see Amy for many different reasons, but most want help in setting and achieving both individual and relationship goals. The aim of her work with individuals is to help them to breakthrough negative belief patterns, to act more decisively, and to set goals to help them create the life they want.
(401) 371-4930 View (401) 371-4930
Photo of Deborah S Ellis, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Deborah S Ellis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
South Kingstown, RI 02879
Not accepting new clients
Whether this is your first time in therapy or you are returning after a break, it is important to find a therapist who is the right "fit" for you. I love people and always look to draw out a client's "best self" to address their present difficulties. Through the therapeutic process they gain self awareness, experience and skills to find their own way in the future. I provide a caring compassionate presence, twenty years of professional experience and knowledge to address a wide variety of issues and a sense of humor which can ease the pain of emotions. I am excited to announce that I now offer Equine Therapy.
Whether this is your first time in therapy or you are returning after a break, it is important to find a therapist who is the right "fit" for you. I love people and always look to draw out a client's "best self" to address their present difficulties. Through the therapeutic process they gain self awareness, experience and skills to find their own way in the future. I provide a caring compassionate presence, twenty years of professional experience and knowledge to address a wide variety of issues and a sense of humor which can ease the pain of emotions. I am excited to announce that I now offer Equine Therapy.
(401) 258-7511 View (401) 258-7511

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Toni Marshall, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Toni Marshall
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
Portsmouth, RI 02871
My style of work uses body-centered psychotherapies including EMDR, ego-states/parts work, mindfulness and meditation to help you heal and move forward.
Are you tired of carrying the weight of your past? Are you tired of being stuck and wonder why you can't move forward? Feeling overwhelmed but ready to move forward and live your best life?
My style of work uses body-centered psychotherapies including EMDR, ego-states/parts work, mindfulness and meditation to help you heal and move forward.
Are you tired of carrying the weight of your past? Are you tired of being stuck and wonder why you can't move forward? Feeling overwhelmed but ready to move forward and live your best life?
(401) 361-3744 View (401) 361-3744
Photo of Susan Schumann- - -Blooming Lotus Psychotherapy, LICSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan Schumann- - -Blooming Lotus Psychotherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Newport, RI 02840  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
A lotus blooms under the worst circumstances...in the most foul of waters, yet it's undeniably beautiful. Life deals us our share of horrible circumstances, yet we are still attempting to grow and overcome. These scars and triumphs are what makes us unique and gorgeous. I specialize in a trauma focused, person centered approach to learning and gaining insight about one's self in a non-judgmental environment. I can help you simplify, engage, and be more present, while also implementing healthy boundaries to enjoy a better work/life balance. My clients learn to embrace who they are and leave the negative self talk behind.
I am trained in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing).
A lotus blooms under the worst circumstances...in the most foul of waters, yet it's undeniably beautiful. Life deals us our share of horrible circumstances, yet we are still attempting to grow and overcome. These scars and triumphs are what makes us unique and gorgeous. I specialize in a trauma focused, person centered approach to learning and gaining insight about one's self in a non-judgmental environment. I can help you simplify, engage, and be more present, while also implementing healthy boundaries to enjoy a better work/life balance. My clients learn to embrace who they are and leave the negative self talk behind.
View
Photo of Jessica Veroline, MSW, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jessica Veroline
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Portsmouth, RI 02871
I provide equine-assisted psychotherapy through the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association Model and Equine Assisted Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! My background is in clinical social work providing counseling for teenagers and adults. I provide a collaborative and compassionate space to explore and process present and past experiences. I believe all individuals have strengths that they can implement to problem solve what is happening in their lives. Counseling can help guide you to resolve trauma and grief, learn tools to deal with stress and reduce anxiety for better life enjoyment and functioning.
I provide equine-assisted psychotherapy through the Equine Assisted Growth and Learning Association Model and Equine Assisted Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy.
Welcome! I am so glad you are here! My background is in clinical social work providing counseling for teenagers and adults. I provide a collaborative and compassionate space to explore and process present and past experiences. I believe all individuals have strengths that they can implement to problem solve what is happening in their lives. Counseling can help guide you to resolve trauma and grief, learn tools to deal with stress and reduce anxiety for better life enjoyment and functioning.
(401) 307-5468 View (401) 307-5468
Photo of Maria Sorensen, MA, LAADC, SAP
Maria Sorensen
MA, LAADC, SAP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
North Kingstown, RI 02852  (Online Only)
I'm an IFS therapist who is accepting new clients on TeleHealth. Healing Arts is an integrative trauma-informed practice. We create a safe space through non-judgment, acceptance and empowerment. We create community through facilitating workshops, groups and retreats in addition to providing individual therapy. As holistic practitioners, we address the whole person in the healing process: body, mind and spirit. As integrative therapists, we have experience of therapeutic principles and techniques such as IFS, EMDR, Expressive Arts, hypnosis and the 12 Steps, DOT/SAP Evaluations.
I'm an IFS therapist who is accepting new clients on TeleHealth. Healing Arts is an integrative trauma-informed practice. We create a safe space through non-judgment, acceptance and empowerment. We create community through facilitating workshops, groups and retreats in addition to providing individual therapy. As holistic practitioners, we address the whole person in the healing process: body, mind and spirit. As integrative therapists, we have experience of therapeutic principles and techniques such as IFS, EMDR, Expressive Arts, hypnosis and the 12 Steps, DOT/SAP Evaluations.
(401) 379-8556 View (401) 379-8556
Photo of Anna Prince, LICSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anna Prince
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LICSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Newport, RI 02840  (Online Only)
I am currently working toward certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR) for clients that would benefit from reprocessing distressing memories or thoughts as part of treatment.
If you're struggling with shame, emotion regulation, self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, or depression, please know that you can find relief and you don't have to do it alone. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced developmental or relational trauma. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, I've provided trauma-informed psychotherapy in acute mental health, child welfare, and school-based systems. Through curiosity, compassion, and consistency, it's a true privilege to support you through personal growth and healing.
I am currently working toward certification in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR) for clients that would benefit from reprocessing distressing memories or thoughts as part of treatment.
If you're struggling with shame, emotion regulation, self-esteem, relationships, anxiety, or depression, please know that you can find relief and you don't have to do it alone. I specialize in working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced developmental or relational trauma. As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker in Rhode Island and Massachusetts, I've provided trauma-informed psychotherapy in acute mental health, child welfare, and school-based systems. Through curiosity, compassion, and consistency, it's a true privilege to support you through personal growth and healing.
(401) 740-3277 View (401) 740-3277
Photo of Suzanne Brushart-Shaw, LMHC, Counselor
Suzanne Brushart-Shaw
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Middletown, RI 02842
Waitlist for new clients
I offer my clients a diverse toolbox of treatment modalities that include: strength-based talk therapy to address a variety of challenges, EMDR to provide symptom relief and art therapy to facilitate insight building and increased personaI awareness.
Human beings are instinctually driven towards healing. I believe in my clients' capacity to grow, heal and thrive. I strive to provide compassionate support in the form of collaboration, education and witnessing. The scope of my practice ranges from facilitating healing from trauma and abusive relationships to empowering clients to make healthy choices that create lasting positive change and satisfaction.
I offer my clients a diverse toolbox of treatment modalities that include: strength-based talk therapy to address a variety of challenges, EMDR to provide symptom relief and art therapy to facilitate insight building and increased personaI awareness.
Human beings are instinctually driven towards healing. I believe in my clients' capacity to grow, heal and thrive. I strive to provide compassionate support in the form of collaboration, education and witnessing. The scope of my practice ranges from facilitating healing from trauma and abusive relationships to empowering clients to make healthy choices that create lasting positive change and satisfaction.
(401) 406-2501 View (401) 406-2501

See more therapy options for South Kingstown

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.