EMDR Therapists in Centreville, VA

Photo of Erika Neil, LCSW, JD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erika Neil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, JD
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20120  (Online Only)
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Teacher Training, 2000, EMDR Certification 2007, Reiki Certifcation 2019, Havening Technique Certification 2019.
Building on the strengths of each client, I provide a warm, accepting environment in which to address inner and outer obstacles. My clients are typically dealing with difficult transitions or emotional states that are preventing them from enjoying life to the fullest. I work collaboratively to understand and get to the root of distressing thoughts and feelings. My style is compassionate and solution-focused, and is individualized to each person's needs. I teach clients mind-body strategies to empower them to handle challenges, and to cultivate positive emotional states.
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction Teacher Training, 2000, EMDR Certification 2007, Reiki Certifcation 2019, Havening Technique Certification 2019.
Building on the strengths of each client, I provide a warm, accepting environment in which to address inner and outer obstacles. My clients are typically dealing with difficult transitions or emotional states that are preventing them from enjoying life to the fullest. I work collaboratively to understand and get to the root of distressing thoughts and feelings. My style is compassionate and solution-focused, and is individualized to each person's needs. I teach clients mind-body strategies to empower them to handle challenges, and to cultivate positive emotional states.
(571) 200-1202 View (571) 200-1202
Photo of Vicki Kirsch, LCSW, PhD, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vicki Kirsch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PhD
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
I am passionate about working with individuals to help them uncover their unique, vital selves in relation to others and the world. I come to my practice with a toolbox approach of methods and strengths including EMDR, DBT and relational psychodynamic psychotherapy. With empathy and insight, I meet the client where they are and support them in their process of therapy and life. I am also Director of the MSW Program, Associate Professor, Dept. of Social Work at George Mason University.
I am passionate about working with individuals to help them uncover their unique, vital selves in relation to others and the world. I come to my practice with a toolbox approach of methods and strengths including EMDR, DBT and relational psychodynamic psychotherapy. With empathy and insight, I meet the client where they are and support them in their process of therapy and life. I am also Director of the MSW Program, Associate Professor, Dept. of Social Work at George Mason University.
(617) 306-7417 View (617) 306-7417
Photo of Erka Mucaj, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Erka Mucaj
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20120  (Online Only)
I utilize trauma based approaches while incorporating elements of DBT, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness and somatic interventions.
As a clinician, I strive to create an empathetic supportive environment that can allow individuals to embark on a journey of exploration and connection with parts of self. I encourage and empower the individuals through the challenges of reaching self-acceptance and creating meaning. I believe that the relationship between the therapist and the client is central to therapy, and I fully have faith that by creating a space of trust, authentic engagement, and collaborative dialogue you will develop capacity to explore your deepest fears and trust your own ability to create and define your sense of meaning.
I utilize trauma based approaches while incorporating elements of DBT, CBT, EMDR, mindfulness and somatic interventions.
As a clinician, I strive to create an empathetic supportive environment that can allow individuals to embark on a journey of exploration and connection with parts of self. I encourage and empower the individuals through the challenges of reaching self-acceptance and creating meaning. I believe that the relationship between the therapist and the client is central to therapy, and I fully have faith that by creating a space of trust, authentic engagement, and collaborative dialogue you will develop capacity to explore your deepest fears and trust your own ability to create and define your sense of meaning.
(571) 489-5951 View (571) 489-5951
Photo of Tanya K Hull, LPC, RPT-S, Licensed Professional Counselor
Tanya K Hull
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
I am a clinical supervisor for LPC residents, and supervisor for play therapy certification to become an RPT. A strong focus in family systems and internal family systems. I actively include parents and families in the treatment process. Also, a specialty with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I pull from treatment protocols that include CBT, Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR. I have a background in substance abuse counseling and value meeting a client where they are in strengths and struggles. I value a safe therapeutic environment and strong therapeutic relationship for success in therapy.
I am a clinical supervisor for LPC residents, and supervisor for play therapy certification to become an RPT. A strong focus in family systems and internal family systems. I actively include parents and families in the treatment process. Also, a specialty with adults suffering from depression, anxiety, and trauma. I pull from treatment protocols that include CBT, Play Therapy, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR. I have a background in substance abuse counseling and value meeting a client where they are in strengths and struggles. I value a safe therapeutic environment and strong therapeutic relationship for success in therapy.
(571) 749-2948 View (571) 749-2948
Photo of Hannah Ball Ic - The Center for Connection, Healing & Change, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern
The Center for Connection, Healing & Change
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, LMFT, LPC, LCSW, LMFT-R, LPC-R
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20121
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital/precommitment therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, play therapy, trauma therapy, and EMDR.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
We offer individual therapy, couples therapy, premarital/precommitment therapy, sex therapy, child/teen & family therapy, parenting therapy, play therapy, trauma therapy, and EMDR.
Accepting new clients - Want to feel whole again? We specialize in the promotion of satisfying, secure, and close relationships, both with ourselves and our loved ones. CCHC focuses on harmonious relationships, emotional calm, and abundant self-worth. We appreciate the impact that connection has on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being - when our relationships are going well, we have the confidence and energy we need to tackle the challenges of life. Sessions can explore ways to heal unresolved issues/pain, know who you are, ask for what you need, and access your resilience in moments of stress.
(703) 879-3275 View (703) 879-3275
Photo of Keleisha Dixon - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Manassas, Licensed Professional Counselor
Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Manassas
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(571) 998-1387 View (571) 998-1387
Photo of Ebony Canady, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ebony Canady
Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121  (Online Only)
A graduate of University of California Riverside and Norfolk State University, Ebony is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience treating all age groups in various settings and modalities like EMDR. She is trained and certified to work with grief, intellectual disabilities, and critical incident stress debriefing. She is also comfortable with substance abuse counseling, acute mental illness and crisis intervention as well as family counseling, trauma recovery, and perinatal mental healt
A graduate of University of California Riverside and Norfolk State University, Ebony is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with 10 years of experience treating all age groups in various settings and modalities like EMDR. She is trained and certified to work with grief, intellectual disabilities, and critical incident stress debriefing. She is also comfortable with substance abuse counseling, acute mental illness and crisis intervention as well as family counseling, trauma recovery, and perinatal mental healt
(571) 202-6852 View (571) 202-6852
Photo of Amanda Davis-Scott, LPC, PMH-C, Licensed Professional Counselor
Amanda Davis-Scott
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, PMH-C
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
In addition, I have training in EMDR, TIR (traumatic incident reduction), and CISM.
My primary focus is working with first responders, veterans, and their families to manage day to day stressors including issues around parenting, work-life balance, and issues including depression and anxiety. I am a perinatal mental health counselor with extensive training in working with individuals (and couples) during the pregnancy and postpartum period and navigating parenting in the early childhood years. In addition, I have a passion for supporting caregivers/parents with children with mental health disorders.
In addition, I have training in EMDR, TIR (traumatic incident reduction), and CISM.
My primary focus is working with first responders, veterans, and their families to manage day to day stressors including issues around parenting, work-life balance, and issues including depression and anxiety. I am a perinatal mental health counselor with extensive training in working with individuals (and couples) during the pregnancy and postpartum period and navigating parenting in the early childhood years. In addition, I have a passion for supporting caregivers/parents with children with mental health disorders.
(571) 253-7557 View (571) 253-7557
Photo of Michael M. Fahmy, MA
Michael M. Fahmy
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
Together, we'll create a cooperative strategy, incorporating EMDR and various evidence-supported techniques to promote emotional well-being.
Dealing with significant losses, feeling trapped, or uncertain about handling emotions? Adjusting to changes can be difficult; life's trials may bring exhaustion and stress. With training in EMDR therapy, I am here to guide you through these times.
Together, we'll create a cooperative strategy, incorporating EMDR and various evidence-supported techniques to promote emotional well-being.
Dealing with significant losses, feeling trapped, or uncertain about handling emotions? Adjusting to changes can be difficult; life's trials may bring exhaustion and stress. With training in EMDR therapy, I am here to guide you through these times.
(571) 946-6098 View (571) 946-6098
Photo of Vittoria Grant - Vittoria Donato Grant, LPC, MA, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Vittoria Donato Grant, LPC
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Professional, a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Certified Traumatologist who specializes in trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, PTSD, relationship, multiculticultural issues and problems associated with emotional and physical abuse. I combine my expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy with new approaches including EMDR, solution focus therapy and brief therapy. Being myself an immigrant from Italy, I have over 20 years experience in counseling and training short-term international sojourners as well as immigrants who reside in the greater Washington, D.C. area.
I am a bilingual (English and Spanish) Licensed Professional, a Nationally Certified Counselor and a Certified Traumatologist who specializes in trauma, mood and anxiety disorders, PTSD, relationship, multiculticultural issues and problems associated with emotional and physical abuse. I combine my expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy with new approaches including EMDR, solution focus therapy and brief therapy. Being myself an immigrant from Italy, I have over 20 years experience in counseling and training short-term international sojourners as well as immigrants who reside in the greater Washington, D.C. area.
(703) 884-2437 View (703) 884-2437
Photo of Danielle Sims, LPC, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Danielle Sims
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
Danielle utilizes evidence-based treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems theory, EMDR etc.
Sometimes it can feel like our lives are out of control or that our emotions get the best of us. Danielle is passionate about empowering clients through identifying thought patterns, negative emotions and behavioral patterns. As a trained EMDR therapist, she can also help you deal with past traumas that are still impacting you today.
Danielle utilizes evidence-based treatment approaches, including cognitive behavioral therapy, internal family systems theory, EMDR etc.
Sometimes it can feel like our lives are out of control or that our emotions get the best of us. Danielle is passionate about empowering clients through identifying thought patterns, negative emotions and behavioral patterns. As a trained EMDR therapist, she can also help you deal with past traumas that are still impacting you today.
(571) 458-1133 View (571) 458-1133
Photo of Fairfax Integrative Therapy - Fairfax Integrative Therapy, LLC, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Fairfax Integrative Therapy, LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
We have current openings for individual, couple, and family therapy and for EMDR and Couple Intensives. We are a collaborative practice of Licensed and Resident Marriage and Family Therapists. We come from a warm, direct approach aimed at helping our clients feel comfortable and safe while actively working to meet their goals. Our therapists work from an attachment, strength-based approach to treat a variety of issues including mood struggles, relationship and conflict issues, anger management, behavioral issues, trauma, and parenting and family issues. We are licensed to treat clients in VA, DC, MD, NC, and NH.
We have current openings for individual, couple, and family therapy and for EMDR and Couple Intensives. We are a collaborative practice of Licensed and Resident Marriage and Family Therapists. We come from a warm, direct approach aimed at helping our clients feel comfortable and safe while actively working to meet their goals. Our therapists work from an attachment, strength-based approach to treat a variety of issues including mood struggles, relationship and conflict issues, anger management, behavioral issues, trauma, and parenting and family issues. We are licensed to treat clients in VA, DC, MD, NC, and NH.
(571) 223-6515 View (571) 223-6515
Photo of Chelsea Gurney, MA
Chelsea Gurney
Resident in Counseling, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20120
I use CBT, DBT, EFT, and EMDR modalities.
Whether your family life feels chaotic, you have past trauma, or a recent loss, counseling is a big next step in moving forward. It takes a bit of energy, but many of us have put a lot of energy toward fixing our lives already and found that it's much easier to do with the help of others. Counselors don't have all the answers, but we can often help you identify patterns of behavior, unhelpful thoughts, or even help you more clearly understand what is going on. Sometimes we need practical advice or information and other times we just need a listening ear to help us process.
I use CBT, DBT, EFT, and EMDR modalities.
Whether your family life feels chaotic, you have past trauma, or a recent loss, counseling is a big next step in moving forward. It takes a bit of energy, but many of us have put a lot of energy toward fixing our lives already and found that it's much easier to do with the help of others. Counselors don't have all the answers, but we can often help you identify patterns of behavior, unhelpful thoughts, or even help you more clearly understand what is going on. Sometimes we need practical advice or information and other times we just need a listening ear to help us process.
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Photo of Kelly L Cipera - Nova Telemental Health LLC, LCSW, LISW-S, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nova Telemental Health LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LISW-S
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20121  (Online Only)
Using a variety of treatment modalities from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Sex Therapy.
Accepting New Clients, immediate openings. Evening availability. Mental wellness is and should be accessible and you deserve highly trained professionals to help you on your journey. NOVA Telemental Health is military spouse owned and veteran operated with experience with military, first responders, medical workers, therapists and their families. Our therapists are trained to help you with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, personality disorders, life transitions and challenges. We are proudly an LGBTQIA+, Kink, Ethical Non-Monogamy Affirming.
Using a variety of treatment modalities from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, EMDR, Cognitive Processing Therapy, Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and Sex Therapy.
Accepting New Clients, immediate openings. Evening availability. Mental wellness is and should be accessible and you deserve highly trained professionals to help you on your journey. NOVA Telemental Health is military spouse owned and veteran operated with experience with military, first responders, medical workers, therapists and their families. Our therapists are trained to help you with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, anxiety, depression, ADHD, personality disorders, life transitions and challenges. We are proudly an LGBTQIA+, Kink, Ethical Non-Monogamy Affirming.
(571) 200-9854 View (571) 200-9854
Photo of Nicky Verster, MS, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Nicky Verster
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20122
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR extensively in my work.
Are you challenged by disconnects in relationships, life events, transitions, communication issues, or the “stuff” of life? Are you feeling disappointed, worried, sad or helpless? Do you feel stuck?
I use Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) and EMDR extensively in my work.
Are you challenged by disconnects in relationships, life events, transitions, communication issues, or the “stuff” of life? Are you feeling disappointed, worried, sad or helpless? Do you feel stuck?
(703) 879-5925 View (703) 879-5925
Photo of Dorothy Smith, LCSW, MSW, BFA, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dorothy Smith
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, BFA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Centreville, VA 20121
Today is the day you choose to walk a different path. Today you choose help and change. That is brave! So let's do this! Let me help you move forward. Let's work on your anxious thoughts, trauma, depression, meditation, boundary setting, self-compassion, healing your mental pain, and slowing down to see where you want to go in life. I will partner with you not talk at you. So just call me, that is the first step. And please, if I don't answer, I may be helping someone, so just hang in there through the recording and leave a message.
Today is the day you choose to walk a different path. Today you choose help and change. That is brave! So let's do this! Let me help you move forward. Let's work on your anxious thoughts, trauma, depression, meditation, boundary setting, self-compassion, healing your mental pain, and slowing down to see where you want to go in life. I will partner with you not talk at you. So just call me, that is the first step. And please, if I don't answer, I may be helping someone, so just hang in there through the recording and leave a message.
(703) 884-8997 View (703) 884-8997
Photo of Sara Stuart, Licensed Professional Counselor
Sara Stuart
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121  (Online Only)
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. I have experience working in the field for 9 years, including experience working in corrections, medically monitored detox, crisis stabilization, and community based crisis intervention. I have exposure to and an understanding of working with adults with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders in outpatient, inpatient, and community settings. My areas of specialty include addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief.
I am a Licensed Professional Counselor as well as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor. I have experience working in the field for 9 years, including experience working in corrections, medically monitored detox, crisis stabilization, and community based crisis intervention. I have exposure to and an understanding of working with adults with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders in outpatient, inpatient, and community settings. My areas of specialty include addiction, trauma, depression, anxiety, and grief.
(434) 577-8186 View (434) 577-8186
Photo of Ayrielle Williams, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ayrielle Williams
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
I'm Ayrielle Williams, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in sex and trauma therapy. I firmly believe that true healing cannot occur without addressing the challenges and barriers that shape our views, experiences, and emotions regarding sexuality. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I support individuals who have faced various forms of trauma, including racial trauma, childhood trauma, abusive relationships, sexual trauma, and military trauma. I am dedicated to helping clients heal emotionally and embrace healthy, fulfilling sexual lives. Additionally, I proudly identify as LGBTQ allied, body positive.
I'm Ayrielle Williams, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) specializing in sex and trauma therapy. I firmly believe that true healing cannot occur without addressing the challenges and barriers that shape our views, experiences, and emotions regarding sexuality. As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional, I support individuals who have faced various forms of trauma, including racial trauma, childhood trauma, abusive relationships, sexual trauma, and military trauma. I am dedicated to helping clients heal emotionally and embrace healthy, fulfilling sexual lives. Additionally, I proudly identify as LGBTQ allied, body positive.
(571) 568-7490 View (571) 568-7490
Photo of Doug Warford - Doug Warford New Day Counseling, LLC, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Doug Warford New Day Counseling, LLC
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20120
We offer individual counseling services to meet the unique needs of our clients. We also offer specialized services for issues such as anger management, anxiety, ADHD, depression, phases of life changes, and trauma.
We offer individual counseling services to meet the unique needs of our clients. We also offer specialized services for issues such as anger management, anxiety, ADHD, depression, phases of life changes, and trauma.
(571) 520-5295 View (571) 520-5295
Photo of Jennifer Rulli, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jennifer Rulli
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Centreville, VA 20121
Our early family of origin experiences lay the foundation for internal and relational patterns that continue to play out in later life. Many of our patterns include our best and most creative efforts to adapt to the tough stuff of life such as trauma, misattunement, and loss. Though these patterns are not set in stone, they are often automatic and hard to recognize, change, or understand. Together we can explore the ways in which our adaptations may have served you well in earlier times but are no longer proving to be helpful, effective, or authentic. I work with clients to create connection, healing, safety, and satisfaction.
Our early family of origin experiences lay the foundation for internal and relational patterns that continue to play out in later life. Many of our patterns include our best and most creative efforts to adapt to the tough stuff of life such as trauma, misattunement, and loss. Though these patterns are not set in stone, they are often automatic and hard to recognize, change, or understand. Together we can explore the ways in which our adaptations may have served you well in earlier times but are no longer proving to be helpful, effective, or authentic. I work with clients to create connection, healing, safety, and satisfaction.
(703) 782-5051 View (703) 782-5051
1

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.