EMDR Psychologists and Therapists in Summer Hill, NSW

Photo of Roberta Iavarone, Counsellor, ACA-L2
Roberta Iavarone
Counsellor, ACA-L2
1 Endorsed
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
I have extensive experience using individually tailored, strengths based therapies including mindfulness, compassion & trauma focused therapies & EMDR.
Are you struggling to navigate relationship difficulties/conflict with your partner, family member or work colleague? Perhaps you are struggling to navigate the pressures of a new job, life stage such as menopause or adult diagnosis of ADHD? You may feel anxious & overwhelmed and in need of support to help you confidently build skills so you can work towards the things that you really care about & want? Hi I'm Roberta & I have a special interest in working with women & men in all stages of life & to help you build the life you want.
I have extensive experience using individually tailored, strengths based therapies including mindfulness, compassion & trauma focused therapies & EMDR.
Are you struggling to navigate relationship difficulties/conflict with your partner, family member or work colleague? Perhaps you are struggling to navigate the pressures of a new job, life stage such as menopause or adult diagnosis of ADHD? You may feel anxious & overwhelmed and in need of support to help you confidently build skills so you can work towards the things that you really care about & want? Hi I'm Roberta & I have a special interest in working with women & men in all stages of life & to help you build the life you want.
(02) 9100 0107 View (02) 9100 0107
Photo of Aimee Tracton, Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Aimee Tracton
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
I integrate therapeutic approaches including Mindfulness, ACT, Somatic (body-based) Therapy, Psychodynamic theory, EMDR and Internal Family Systems .
I'm a therapist here to help you feel more comfy and at home in your mind, body and the world around you. We will explore concerns, overcome stressful life events, release unhelpful patterns and tap into the strength and clarity you hold within. Genuine collaboration, curiosity, creativity and humour are the values that flavour my approach. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I recognise the unique strengths and challenges of those who might not fit the general mould. Join me via Zoom, in-person or a stroll in the park for walk-and-talk therapy. I work with adolescents and adults of all backgrounds.
I integrate therapeutic approaches including Mindfulness, ACT, Somatic (body-based) Therapy, Psychodynamic theory, EMDR and Internal Family Systems .
I'm a therapist here to help you feel more comfy and at home in your mind, body and the world around you. We will explore concerns, overcome stressful life events, release unhelpful patterns and tap into the strength and clarity you hold within. Genuine collaboration, curiosity, creativity and humour are the values that flavour my approach. As a queer, neurodivergent therapist, I recognise the unique strengths and challenges of those who might not fit the general mould. Join me via Zoom, in-person or a stroll in the park for walk-and-talk therapy. I work with adolescents and adults of all backgrounds.
0450 215 404 View 0450 215 404
Photo of Kristen Makaric - The Woven Self Counselling & Connections, Social Worker, AMHSW
The Woven Self Counselling & Connections
Social Worker, AMHSW
1 Endorsed
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
I offer focused psychological strategies such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, psycho-education, relaxation techniques, somatic work and Canine Assisted Therapy with my dog Maple.
At The Woven Self, I offer a compassionate, grounded space to explore what’s feeling heavy, unclear, or stuck. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and rooted in curiosity. Together, we’ll untangle old patterns, reconnect with your inner strengths, and begin to weave a life that feels more aligned and whole.
I offer focused psychological strategies such as EMDR, CBT, ACT, psycho-education, relaxation techniques, somatic work and Canine Assisted Therapy with my dog Maple.
At The Woven Self, I offer a compassionate, grounded space to explore what’s feeling heavy, unclear, or stuck. My approach is trauma-informed, collaborative, and rooted in curiosity. Together, we’ll untangle old patterns, reconnect with your inner strengths, and begin to weave a life that feels more aligned and whole.
0478 522 944 View 0478 522 944
Photo of Melissa Di Leo, Psychologist, MPsych
Melissa Di Leo
Psychologist, MPsych
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
Frequently drawing from: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Supportive Counselling.
I work primarily with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I believe that therapy should be a space where you feel completely seen, heard, and respected for exactly who you are. Because of this, I am deeply committed to providing a safe, affirming, and celebratory space. Throughout my career, I’ve walked alongside clients navigating a wide range of challenges. I provide individual therapy for concerns including: Anxiety, stress, and burnout; Depression and mood difficulties; Life transitions and identity exploration; Grief, loss, and trauma; School, academic, or executive functioning concerns.
Frequently drawing from: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), and Supportive Counselling.
I work primarily with adolescents, young adults, and adults. I believe that therapy should be a space where you feel completely seen, heard, and respected for exactly who you are. Because of this, I am deeply committed to providing a safe, affirming, and celebratory space. Throughout my career, I’ve walked alongside clients navigating a wide range of challenges. I provide individual therapy for concerns including: Anxiety, stress, and burnout; Depression and mood difficulties; Life transitions and identity exploration; Grief, loss, and trauma; School, academic, or executive functioning concerns.
(02) 8024 5971 View (02) 8024 5971
Photo of Sara Bertolini - Sara Bertolini at 'Some Therapy' EMDR, RI-EMDR, Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Sara Bertolini at 'Some Therapy' EMDR, RI-EMDR
Psychologist, MA, PsyBA General
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
The interventions used consist of EMDR, ego states therapy, RI- EMDR (relational integrated EMDR) and other therapies such as schema therapy to provide a holistic and well rounded approach.
I am Registered Psychologist with a strong commitment to social justice and supporting individuals from all walks of life. I believe therapy should be inclusive, culturally responsive, and grounded in both compassion and evidence-based care. I welcome people of all cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and lived experiences, and I am committed to providing an affirming and non-judgmental space. Whether you are navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or longstanding patterns that feel difficult to shift, you deserve a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood.
The interventions used consist of EMDR, ego states therapy, RI- EMDR (relational integrated EMDR) and other therapies such as schema therapy to provide a holistic and well rounded approach.
I am Registered Psychologist with a strong commitment to social justice and supporting individuals from all walks of life. I believe therapy should be inclusive, culturally responsive, and grounded in both compassion and evidence-based care. I welcome people of all cultural backgrounds, gender identities, sexual orientations, relationship structures, and lived experiences, and I am committed to providing an affirming and non-judgmental space. Whether you are navigating trauma, anxiety, relationship challenges, or longstanding patterns that feel difficult to shift, you deserve a space where you feel safe, respected, and understood.
(02) 8000 1814 View (02) 8000 1814
Photo of Maria Simonetta, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Maria Simonetta
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
I often use Internal Family Systems (IFS) in my practice in conjunction with Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprogramming ( EMDR), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
I often use Internal Family Systems (IFS) in my practice in conjunction with Eye Movement Desensitisation Reprogramming ( EMDR), Sensorimotor Psychotherapy (SP) and Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT).
When lingering or reoccurring issues arise they create within us a dissatisfaction about life and how we feel about ourselves. Issues such as relationship difficulties, addictions, career, life transitions, parenting, depression, anxiety, stress, body image, negative beliefs and thoughts, emotional overwhelm, aggression, low energy, impulsivity etc. can affect your self esteem and your ability to think clearly and solve problems effectively. Learning new skills, building on resilience and resources and dealing with past issues that affect your present life can be empowering and create satisfaction and fulfilment in your life.
(02) 8073 9397 View (02) 8073 9397
Photo of Marzena Diard - Marzena Diard Therapy, Psychotherapist
Marzena Diard Therapy
Psychotherapist
1 Endorsed
Summer Hill, NSW 2130
Living with chronic pain can feel exhausting, confusing, and lonely—especially when it doesn’t improve with conventional treatments. If you're navigating conditions like endometriosis, fibromyalgia, migraines, IBS, back or neck pain, or medically unexplained symptoms, you're not alone—and meaningful support is available..
Living with chronic pain can feel exhausting, confusing, and lonely—especially when it doesn’t improve with conventional treatments. If you're navigating conditions like endometriosis, fibromyalgia, migraines, IBS, back or neck pain, or medically unexplained symptoms, you're not alone—and meaningful support is available..
(02) 9100 0784 View (02) 9100 0784
Photo of Stacey Walsh, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
Stacey Walsh
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA General
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I draw from somatic approaches, EMDR and IFS among others to inform my work.
One of my passions is in helping my clients explore how early life experiences contribute to the ways they relate in the world as they go through life. I look for ways to work with you to process and heal traumas (both early and later in life), relationship or life patterns and missing experiences to assist you to show up in your life in a way that feels authentic, grounded and connected. Your journey and the way that your system organises itself to meet your needs are unique to you and I am honoured by the opportunity to assist you in making meaning of your own experiences.
I draw from somatic approaches, EMDR and IFS among others to inform my work.
One of my passions is in helping my clients explore how early life experiences contribute to the ways they relate in the world as they go through life. I look for ways to work with you to process and heal traumas (both early and later in life), relationship or life patterns and missing experiences to assist you to show up in your life in a way that feels authentic, grounded and connected. Your journey and the way that your system organises itself to meet your needs are unique to you and I am honoured by the opportunity to assist you in making meaning of your own experiences.
(02) 9100 0392 View (02) 9100 0392
Photo of Karin Austin, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Karin Austin
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Serves Area
Waitlist for new clients
I am an Accredited EMDR Practitioner integrating evidence-based therapies to work mindfully with the wisdom of the body in promoting well-being.
I have worked as a Psychologist for more than 20 years, with a diverse range of people in various sectors, including community services, corporate organisations, private practice and extensively in the higher education sector. I offer a warm and engaging approach, deeply valuing the therapeutic relationship as core to the work of effective intervention. I seek to understand the broader context of wellbeing, working with you to connect with inner resources and strengths in addressing mental health concerns, life transitions and challenges.
I am an Accredited EMDR Practitioner integrating evidence-based therapies to work mindfully with the wisdom of the body in promoting well-being.
I have worked as a Psychologist for more than 20 years, with a diverse range of people in various sectors, including community services, corporate organisations, private practice and extensively in the higher education sector. I offer a warm and engaging approach, deeply valuing the therapeutic relationship as core to the work of effective intervention. I seek to understand the broader context of wellbeing, working with you to connect with inner resources and strengths in addressing mental health concerns, life transitions and challenges.
(02) 9100 0935 View (02) 9100 0935

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julia Martz, Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
Julia Martz
Psychologist, MPsych, PsyBA - Clin. Psych
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Julia’s approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing upon therapies like Somatic Trauma Therapy, EMDR, ACT, Exposure Therapy and CBT.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist and Board Approved Supervisor providing online services. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
Julia’s approach is trauma-informed and integrative, drawing upon therapies like Somatic Trauma Therapy, EMDR, ACT, Exposure Therapy and CBT.
Julia operates via Telehealth only. Julia is a qualified Clinical Psychologist and Board Approved Supervisor providing online services. She has many years of experience delivering evidence-based therapy to adults with various presenting difficulties. Julia believes in the strength of the therapeutic relationship and collaboration between client and therapist to create tailored support for each client. She brings a personable and authentic approach to supporting clients and aims to help clients make meaningful, long-lasting changes.
(03) 7003 2371 View (03) 7003 2371
Photo of Justine Gilliland - Sex & Relationship Therapy, EMDR, Counselling, Counsellor, ACA-L4
Sex & Relationship Therapy, EMDR, Counselling
Counsellor, ACA-L4
Serves Area
I offer sex and relationship therapy, EMDR therapy, and individual counselling.
My approach is warm and practical. Your goals, comfort, and boundaries are my priority. I will always ask what you need from our time together, prioritising what matters most to you while also offering structure, skills, and education where desired. There is permission to explore openly, while also honouring your pace, and where we need to tread gently.
I offer sex and relationship therapy, EMDR therapy, and individual counselling.
My approach is warm and practical. Your goals, comfort, and boundaries are my priority. I will always ask what you need from our time together, prioritising what matters most to you while also offering structure, skills, and education where desired. There is permission to explore openly, while also honouring your pace, and where we need to tread gently.
Photo of William Thomas Wykoff - A-Okay Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
A-Okay Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sydney, NSW 2000
I am a client-centred, Neuroaffirming therapist who has experience with neurodivergence, children / adolescents, trauma backgrounds ( EMDR Level 1) and Worker's Compensation / CTP. I also work with couples using the Gottman methodology (Gottman Level 2).
I am a client-centred, Neuroaffirming therapist who has experience with neurodivergence, children / adolescents, trauma backgrounds ( EMDR Level 1) and Worker's Compensation / CTP. I also work with couples using the Gottman methodology (Gottman Level 2).
(02) 8074 5401 View (02) 8074 5401
Photo of Srijana Darnal - Your Mind at Ease, Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Your Mind at Ease
Social Worker, MA, AMHSW
Parramatta, NSW 2150
Your Mind at Ease is centrally located in Parramatta Square and has, over the years, supported the diverse therapeutic needs of clients through a range of holistic and psychological interventions. We believe healing is deeply rooted in culture and spirituality and when thoughtfully integrated with evidence-based psychological practice, they create meaningful and lasting change that individuals can truly embody in their everyday lives. Your Mind at Ease offers experience in delivering tailored, client-centred therapeutic approaches. Taking the first step is overwhelming but the most important step. Call us for free 15mins chat.
Your Mind at Ease is centrally located in Parramatta Square and has, over the years, supported the diverse therapeutic needs of clients through a range of holistic and psychological interventions. We believe healing is deeply rooted in culture and spirituality and when thoughtfully integrated with evidence-based psychological practice, they create meaningful and lasting change that individuals can truly embody in their everyday lives. Your Mind at Ease offers experience in delivering tailored, client-centred therapeutic approaches. Taking the first step is overwhelming but the most important step. Call us for free 15mins chat.
(02) 7804 4439 View (02) 7804 4439
Photo of Athena Cranston, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Athena Cranston
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I am trained in using a variety of different therapies including Schema Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness.
Life isn’t always easy! I provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to help you ‘unpack’ the messiness of life. I’m a Registered Psychologist with over 8 years’ experience working in the mental health space and use evidence-based approaches to help you better understand yourself, find new ways of coping and lead a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I understand that the healing journey can be difficult, and it takes great courage to seek out support. I am passionate about building true connection with clients and making you feel at ease from our first session.
I am trained in using a variety of different therapies including Schema Therapy, EMDR, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioural Therapy (DBT) and Mindfulness.
Life isn’t always easy! I provide a safe, compassionate, and non-judgmental space to help you ‘unpack’ the messiness of life. I’m a Registered Psychologist with over 8 years’ experience working in the mental health space and use evidence-based approaches to help you better understand yourself, find new ways of coping and lead a more meaningful and fulfilling life. I understand that the healing journey can be difficult, and it takes great courage to seek out support. I am passionate about building true connection with clients and making you feel at ease from our first session.
(02) 9159 6749 View (02) 9159 6749
Photo of Sarah Traynor, Social Worker, AASW
Sarah Traynor
Social Worker, AASW
Parramatta, NSW 2150
I am an accredited social worker with 25 years of experience working across Sydney. I have experience working for NGOs, and State and Federal Government agencies in counselling, community development, case management, disaster recovery, group work and delivering training. I enjoy engaging with diverse individuals and families at varied stages of life, providing therapeutic intervention, and working towards positive change. I am available to provide a variety of support services to assist individuals with reaching their goals. I use talk therapy and creative therapy techniques and a strengths based approach to work towards change.
I am an accredited social worker with 25 years of experience working across Sydney. I have experience working for NGOs, and State and Federal Government agencies in counselling, community development, case management, disaster recovery, group work and delivering training. I enjoy engaging with diverse individuals and families at varied stages of life, providing therapeutic intervention, and working towards positive change. I am available to provide a variety of support services to assist individuals with reaching their goals. I use talk therapy and creative therapy techniques and a strengths based approach to work towards change.
(02) 7804 4770 View (02) 7804 4770
Photo of Dorian De Nobrega, Psychotherapist, PACFA
Dorian De Nobrega
Psychotherapist, PACFA
Online Only
He draws on a wide range of wisdom from many modalities such as Solutions Focused Therapy, IFS, CBT, DBT and EMDR to name a few.
Dorian is a PACFA registered Counsellor with over 20 years experience in the health and welfare sector. He provides general therapeutic support to people of all genders and ages, while specializing in men’s mental health and youth mental health. Dorian offers sessions with adults, young people and children, to support a variety of needs.
He draws on a wide range of wisdom from many modalities such as Solutions Focused Therapy, IFS, CBT, DBT and EMDR to name a few.
Dorian is a PACFA registered Counsellor with over 20 years experience in the health and welfare sector. He provides general therapeutic support to people of all genders and ages, while specializing in men’s mental health and youth mental health. Dorian offers sessions with adults, young people and children, to support a variety of needs.
(08) 6219 3971 View (08) 6219 3971
Photo of Katie Thorncraft, Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Katie Thorncraft
Psychologist, Assoc MAPS
Sydney, NSW 2000
I work to help people create better relationships with themselves, and better relationships with other people. I help my clients to understand and learn to regulate what is happening in their bodies, dealing with anxiety, stress, depression and trauma in practical, tangible and simple ways. I aim to help people become less self-critical, frustrated and stressed and create a more meaningful life.
I work to help people create better relationships with themselves, and better relationships with other people. I help my clients to understand and learn to regulate what is happening in their bodies, dealing with anxiety, stress, depression and trauma in practical, tangible and simple ways. I aim to help people become less self-critical, frustrated and stressed and create a more meaningful life.
0432 586 344 View 0432 586 344
Photo of Sevilay Dogan, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Sevilay Dogan
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Parramatta, NSW 2150
My toolbox is equipped with evidence-based modalities including, but not limited to: EMDR, CBT, Ego State Interventions, relationship counselling, Psychodynamic Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Somatic Therapy and Schema Therapy.
I have experience working with complex trauma, specializing in neuromodulation including neurofeedback and heart rate variability, which has been a passion of mine. I have worked extensively with presentations including but not liminted to complex PTSD, attachment disorders, depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
My toolbox is equipped with evidence-based modalities including, but not limited to: EMDR, CBT, Ego State Interventions, relationship counselling, Psychodynamic Therapy, Emotional Freedom Technique, Somatic Therapy and Schema Therapy.
I have experience working with complex trauma, specializing in neuromodulation including neurofeedback and heart rate variability, which has been a passion of mine. I have worked extensively with presentations including but not liminted to complex PTSD, attachment disorders, depression, anxiety and personality disorders.
(02) 7804 4712 View (02) 7804 4712
Photo of Grishma Shah - PsyConnect Counselling and Psychotherapy, Counsellor, PACFA
PsyConnect Counselling and Psychotherapy
Counsellor, PACFA
Ryde, NSW 2112
She has graduated with a Master's in Counselling and Psychotherapy and expanded her skill base with additional training in EMDR and Art-based therapies.
Grishma is a warm person who believes in working creatively and collaboratively with clients to address their challenges. At PsyConnect, Grishma adopts an integrative counselling approach and offers a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. She works with the clients in a compassionate and culturally aware manner to help them connect with their inner strength and explore their infinite potential to manage challenging life situations one step at a time.
She has graduated with a Master's in Counselling and Psychotherapy and expanded her skill base with additional training in EMDR and Art-based therapies.
Grishma is a warm person who believes in working creatively and collaboratively with clients to address their challenges. At PsyConnect, Grishma adopts an integrative counselling approach and offers a safe and supportive environment for clients to explore their thoughts and emotions. She works with the clients in a compassionate and culturally aware manner to help them connect with their inner strength and explore their infinite potential to manage challenging life situations one step at a time.
(02) 7804 4801 View (02) 7804 4801
Photo of Lisa Mulhall - Lisa Mulhall Psychology, Psychologist, PsyBA General
Lisa Mulhall Psychology
Psychologist, PsyBA General
Online Only
I have found a personalised approach is best however when it comes to supporting people who have experienced trauma, EMDR can be especially helpful.
Registered Psychologist of 20 years experience available for bookings (Telehealth ONLY) for people aged 18+ years (not children). I've worked in occupational rehabilitation, supported people all over Australia working on Beyond Blue especially rural and remote locations. Over 15 years experience in the Mental Health Acute Care NSW Public Hospital System addressing psychosis, schizophrenia, personality and mood disorders, depression, anxiety, perinatal mental health, adjustment disorders, grief, PTSD and have worked alongside first responders. Available for Workcover. NO phone calls
I have found a personalised approach is best however when it comes to supporting people who have experienced trauma, EMDR can be especially helpful.
Registered Psychologist of 20 years experience available for bookings (Telehealth ONLY) for people aged 18+ years (not children). I've worked in occupational rehabilitation, supported people all over Australia working on Beyond Blue especially rural and remote locations. Over 15 years experience in the Mental Health Acute Care NSW Public Hospital System addressing psychosis, schizophrenia, personality and mood disorders, depression, anxiety, perinatal mental health, adjustment disorders, grief, PTSD and have worked alongside first responders. Available for Workcover. NO phone calls
(02) 7501 0199 View (02) 7501 0199

See more therapy options for Summer Hill

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, minimising its ability to trigger anxiety.