EMDR Therapists in Illinois

Photo of Brittany M. Frost, Pre-Licensed Professional
Brittany M. Frost
Pre-Licensed Professional
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Champaign, IL 61821
I draw from various therapeutic techniques, including EMDR, EFT, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory, and Family Systems Therapy.
I am an empathetic therapist who counsels adults, teens, and primarily couples. My counseling style uses attachment-focused and trauma-informed approaches. I also have a clinical focus on sex therapy and relational intimacy. I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate their emotional and relational struggles related to everyday life. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and is influenced by parts work. I am a counselor with a master's degree in mental health counseling and a certificate in sex therapy.
I draw from various therapeutic techniques, including EMDR, EFT, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, Polyvagal Theory, Attachment Theory, and Family Systems Therapy.
I am an empathetic therapist who counsels adults, teens, and primarily couples. My counseling style uses attachment-focused and trauma-informed approaches. I also have a clinical focus on sex therapy and relational intimacy. I am dedicated to helping my clients navigate their emotional and relational struggles related to everyday life. My therapeutic approach is grounded in Emotionally-Focused Therapy (EFT) and is influenced by parts work. I am a counselor with a master's degree in mental health counseling and a certificate in sex therapy.
(217) 269-8900 View (217) 269-8900
Photo of Vanessa E Ford, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Vanessa E Ford
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626
I can use EMDR to treat trauma, as well as mindfulness approaches.
I believe in building collaborative relationships with my clients. Many of the people who come to see me are insightful and know that certain behaviors or symptoms of depression, stress or anxiety are holding them back. We will work together to both help you develop better coping and self-esteem, as well as developing a better understanding of your issues and problems. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and DBT skills can help with this. For more information on my background please visit the "credentials" page on my website. To reach out, please fill out a contact form on my website. This will expedite my response.
I can use EMDR to treat trauma, as well as mindfulness approaches.
I believe in building collaborative relationships with my clients. Many of the people who come to see me are insightful and know that certain behaviors or symptoms of depression, stress or anxiety are holding them back. We will work together to both help you develop better coping and self-esteem, as well as developing a better understanding of your issues and problems. Cognitive-behavioral therapy and DBT skills can help with this. For more information on my background please visit the "credentials" page on my website. To reach out, please fill out a contact form on my website. This will expedite my response.
(773) 552-8070 View (773) 552-8070
Photo of J Scott Nelson - Transformations Counseling PLLC, EdD, LCPC, NCC, CRADC, Counselor
Transformations Counseling PLLC
Counselor, EdD, LCPC, NCC, CRADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
Our experienced team of therapists has been helping clients achieve their best self, better relationships, and a more balanced life since 2012. The more common struggles we help clients overcome are anxiety and depression, trauma and PTSD, relationship problems, and parenting challenges. If you have been wrestling with these or other issues, we are here to help. We work with older kids (8+), adolescents, adults, couples, and families. Most of our therapists are EMDR trained (EMDRIA approved) and also use other effective approaches including CBT, DBT, and systemic approaches.
(224) 207-4149 View (224) 207-4149
Photo of Sally Frau, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sally Frau
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
Individuals struggling with unresolved traumas receive EMDR treatment as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Trying to find the right counselor or therapist during challenging times can be overwhelming. I assist individuals, couples, and families to understand what type of therapist will be most helpful for them. I then match them with a licensed counselor/therapist in my referral network that has expertise in their problem area and is a good fit for their personality and therapeutic needs. In addition to referrals, I provide ongoing counseling for individuals experiencing life transitions and emotional adjustments, as well as unresolved past or recent trauma.
Individuals struggling with unresolved traumas receive EMDR treatment as a part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Trying to find the right counselor or therapist during challenging times can be overwhelming. I assist individuals, couples, and families to understand what type of therapist will be most helpful for them. I then match them with a licensed counselor/therapist in my referral network that has expertise in their problem area and is a good fit for their personality and therapeutic needs. In addition to referrals, I provide ongoing counseling for individuals experiencing life transitions and emotional adjustments, as well as unresolved past or recent trauma.
(773) 372-4111 View (773) 372-4111
Photo of Mara H Steinhour - MH Counseling Services, LLC, LCPC, MACL, Counselor
MH Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, LCPC, MACL
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61108
It is my personal belief that when individuals experience any Stress, Anxiety, Panic, or Trauma - they feel that life is unraveling and discouraging. For the past 20 years, I have been helping patients heal and learn to overcome life's unexpected challenges. I enjoy developing "specific plans" for patients personal needs. I encourage all my patients to learn healthy ways of changing negative perceptions about themselves. I am a Certified EMDR therapist and also help train other practitioners.
It is my personal belief that when individuals experience any Stress, Anxiety, Panic, or Trauma - they feel that life is unraveling and discouraging. For the past 20 years, I have been helping patients heal and learn to overcome life's unexpected challenges. I enjoy developing "specific plans" for patients personal needs. I encourage all my patients to learn healthy ways of changing negative perceptions about themselves. I am a Certified EMDR therapist and also help train other practitioners.
(815) 475-9089 View (815) 475-9089
Photo of Jennifer C Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Hinsdale, IL 60521
We are trained in doing EMDR for trauma issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We are trained in doing EMDR for trauma issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Casey VanderStel, LPC, MA, EMDR, Counselor
Casey VanderStel
Counselor, LPC, MA, EMDR
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
Additionally, I have specific training in EMDR, ERP, ACT, supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, and expansive relationship structures.
- Currently only accepting new clients for my Queer Process Therapy Group, please email to inquire! (waitlisting individual clients) - I specialize in working with those who've experienced religious trauma and childhood or developmental trauma. I believe in the power of integration- that ALL parts of you deserve love and compassion. Together, we will address feelings, needs, beliefs, and the body's own wisdom, while also seeing issues in the context of the systems in which you exist. I work best with those wanting to be challenged to dig deeper and understand their interior worlds, and use an overall psychodynamic therapy approach.
Additionally, I have specific training in EMDR, ERP, ACT, supporting LGBTQ+ individuals, and expansive relationship structures.
- Currently only accepting new clients for my Queer Process Therapy Group, please email to inquire! (waitlisting individual clients) - I specialize in working with those who've experienced religious trauma and childhood or developmental trauma. I believe in the power of integration- that ALL parts of you deserve love and compassion. Together, we will address feelings, needs, beliefs, and the body's own wisdom, while also seeing issues in the context of the systems in which you exist. I work best with those wanting to be challenged to dig deeper and understand their interior worlds, and use an overall psychodynamic therapy approach.
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Photo of Annie Sweeney, LSW, Pre-Licensed Professional
Annie Sweeney
Pre-Licensed Professional, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601
I like to pull parts of EMDR when working with trauma and other presentations.
I am a trauma-informed, Licensed Social Worker who takes a flexible, strengths-based, and solution focused approach with clients. I work to build rapport and establish a genuine connection to make sessions as comfortable and casual as possible. With a special interest in working with teens and young adults, I pull therapeutic techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
I like to pull parts of EMDR when working with trauma and other presentations.
I am a trauma-informed, Licensed Social Worker who takes a flexible, strengths-based, and solution focused approach with clients. I work to build rapport and establish a genuine connection to make sessions as comfortable and casual as possible. With a special interest in working with teens and young adults, I pull therapeutic techniques from Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, and Motivational Interviewing.
(312) 728-4043 View (312) 728-4043
Photo of Julia Schofield, LCPC, NCC, MEd
Julia Schofield
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
I work from an eclectic trauma informed approach, integrating DBT, CBT, EMDR and Solution Focused techniques based on your unique needs.
I believe that you are the expert on yourself. As such, it's my job is to help you discover tools & strengths that already exist within; support you in letting go of strategies & narratives that are no longer beneficial; and together, work towards developing new insights, find healing, instill healthier core beliefs, and practice new skills to assist you in meeting your goals. Whether you are looking to build up your sense of self worth & confidence, strengthen your relationships, process a trauma, or improve your ability to navigate every day stressors, I am here to guide you through the process.
I work from an eclectic trauma informed approach, integrating DBT, CBT, EMDR and Solution Focused techniques based on your unique needs.
I believe that you are the expert on yourself. As such, it's my job is to help you discover tools & strengths that already exist within; support you in letting go of strategies & narratives that are no longer beneficial; and together, work towards developing new insights, find healing, instill healthier core beliefs, and practice new skills to assist you in meeting your goals. Whether you are looking to build up your sense of self worth & confidence, strengthen your relationships, process a trauma, or improve your ability to navigate every day stressors, I am here to guide you through the process.
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Photo of Michelle Rolley, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Michelle Rolley
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
Those I have been honored to work with experience relief through many tailored techniques, including developing communication and connection skills in relationships; gaining tools to understand, manage and express emotions; incorporating brain health strategies; building positive thoughts; and implementing EMDR--a leading trauma/PTSD and anxiety treatment.
When we are in emotional pain, discovering the path to peace can feel elusive. Have you recently felt like anxious thoughts are making it difficult for you to get through your days? Are you experiencing traumatic memories that interfere with your emotional and physical health, and frequently get in your way? Do you find yourself distracted and overwhelmed? You may be feeling you will “never be enough" based on past rejections, or struggling to find your voice within your relationships. If you are feeling lost and uncertain what to do next, I am here to help you find meaningful relief with compassion and non-judgment.
Those I have been honored to work with experience relief through many tailored techniques, including developing communication and connection skills in relationships; gaining tools to understand, manage and express emotions; incorporating brain health strategies; building positive thoughts; and implementing EMDR--a leading trauma/PTSD and anxiety treatment.
When we are in emotional pain, discovering the path to peace can feel elusive. Have you recently felt like anxious thoughts are making it difficult for you to get through your days? Are you experiencing traumatic memories that interfere with your emotional and physical health, and frequently get in your way? Do you find yourself distracted and overwhelmed? You may be feeling you will “never be enough" based on past rejections, or struggling to find your voice within your relationships. If you are feeling lost and uncertain what to do next, I am here to help you find meaningful relief with compassion and non-judgment.
(217) 262-1612 View (217) 262-1612
Photo of Noel Cordova, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Noel Cordova
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
I am a bi-lingual (English and Spanish) counselor. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents who are dealing with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, stress related to life changes, and symptoms related to child abuse or trauma. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work well with difficult to engage teens, adults looking to make life changes, adults with substance use issues, and people with issues related to trauma. My style is easy going and non-judgmental but I can also help you work on meeting your goals. I am doing EMDR (trauma treatment) sessions online and in person at this time.
I am a bi-lingual (English and Spanish) counselor. I enjoy working with adults and adolescents who are dealing with symptoms related to depression, anxiety, stress related to life changes, and symptoms related to child abuse or trauma. I am also a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. I work well with difficult to engage teens, adults looking to make life changes, adults with substance use issues, and people with issues related to trauma. My style is easy going and non-judgmental but I can also help you work on meeting your goals. I am doing EMDR (trauma treatment) sessions online and in person at this time.
(708) 290-7291 View (708) 290-7291
Photo of Raquel Flores-Maki - Raquel Flores-Maki Active Therapies, LLC, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Raquel Flores-Maki Active Therapies, LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60659
I specialize in working with families, children, marriages/partnerships and adolescents. I am Gottman trained for couples counseling. I am also EMDR trained. I employ a team approach that enhances existing supports and provides tools to assist with barriers. Throughout my twenty-seven years of professional experience, I've had the great fortune to learn from the families, adolescents and adults who've placed their well being in my care. I believe in a mind body connection and holistic approach. Mind and body connections are vital to becoming a healthier individual both mentally and physically.
I specialize in working with families, children, marriages/partnerships and adolescents. I am Gottman trained for couples counseling. I am also EMDR trained. I employ a team approach that enhances existing supports and provides tools to assist with barriers. Throughout my twenty-seven years of professional experience, I've had the great fortune to learn from the families, adolescents and adults who've placed their well being in my care. I believe in a mind body connection and holistic approach. Mind and body connections are vital to becoming a healthier individual both mentally and physically.
(773) 649-9730 View (773) 649-9730
Photo of Rachel Rosales, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Rosales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
As a therapist who specializes in complex trauma, I primarily work from a CBT, ACT, DBT and EMDR framework.
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and compassionate space to heal! I am passionate about building healthy relationships with my clients. I believe in creating a safe, stable space that will allow you to express yourself and explore your concerns fully and authentically. I specialize in working with clients dealing with mood disorders, neurodiversity, and complex trauma. I regularly work with individuals who have felt let down, misunderstood, or unheard by the traditional healthcare system. I am passionate about and deeply committed to providing neurodivergent-affirming and diversity-affirming care for all of my clients.
As a therapist who specializes in complex trauma, I primarily work from a CBT, ACT, DBT and EMDR framework.
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and compassionate space to heal! I am passionate about building healthy relationships with my clients. I believe in creating a safe, stable space that will allow you to express yourself and explore your concerns fully and authentically. I specialize in working with clients dealing with mood disorders, neurodiversity, and complex trauma. I regularly work with individuals who have felt let down, misunderstood, or unheard by the traditional healthcare system. I am passionate about and deeply committed to providing neurodivergent-affirming and diversity-affirming care for all of my clients.
(331) 253-4638 View (331) 253-4638
Photo of Gabriel Tijerina, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Gabriel Tijerina
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Libertyville, IL 60048
I am trained in EMDR therapy which has made me more effective in treating individuals who have experienced both acute and complex posttraumatic stress.
Maybe you notice that things feel off. Like, you are always waiting for something to go wrong. Maybe you feel like you are undeserving of good things in life. I can assure you that this is not true, but you are going to have trouble believing this. With time, patience, and good therapy I assure you that this can change. I want to create an energetic and motivated therapy experience. With the help of tools like EMDR we can accelerate the process of therapy and help you get to the kind of life that you want.
I am trained in EMDR therapy which has made me more effective in treating individuals who have experienced both acute and complex posttraumatic stress.
Maybe you notice that things feel off. Like, you are always waiting for something to go wrong. Maybe you feel like you are undeserving of good things in life. I can assure you that this is not true, but you are going to have trouble believing this. With time, patience, and good therapy I assure you that this can change. I want to create an energetic and motivated therapy experience. With the help of tools like EMDR we can accelerate the process of therapy and help you get to the kind of life that you want.
(815) 604-8579 View (815) 604-8579
Photo of Beckie Fischer, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Beckie Fischer
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
I have received training in Gottman and EMDR and am a Certified Trauma Treatment Professional (CTTP).
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) licensed in Illinois with over 18 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, infertility, parenting difficulties, career challenges, OCD and PTSD/trauma. I have a specialization in working with victims of crime (physical/sexual abuse and traumatic grief and loss) as well as law enforcement/military members and their significant others and children.
I have received training in Gottman and EMDR and am a Certified Trauma Treatment Professional (CTTP).
I am a licensed clinical professional counselor (LCPC) licensed in Illinois with over 18 years of experience. I have worked with clients with a wide range of concerns including depression, anxiety, relationship issues, infertility, parenting difficulties, career challenges, OCD and PTSD/trauma. I have a specialization in working with victims of crime (physical/sexual abuse and traumatic grief and loss) as well as law enforcement/military members and their significant others and children.
(773) 974-4141 View (773) 974-4141
Photo of Pamela R. Miller, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Pamela R. Miller
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
Charleston, IL 61920
As a clinical therapist, I utilize psychotherapy, CBT, trauma therapy, EMDR or biofeedback to help you reach your full potential.
If you're ready to make a change and move in a new direction or if you're just looking for extra support and guidance with daily stressors, I can assist you in making changes toward a positive direction. Whether it is relationship, divorce or marriage issues, anxiety/depression, grief/loss or parenting problems, we can help. As a nationally licensed, clinical therapist, I use evidence based treatments to help you learn healthy life choices for a healthy balance! Today you are one step closer to a new you, on a path to health, well-being and life balance.
As a clinical therapist, I utilize psychotherapy, CBT, trauma therapy, EMDR or biofeedback to help you reach your full potential.
If you're ready to make a change and move in a new direction or if you're just looking for extra support and guidance with daily stressors, I can assist you in making changes toward a positive direction. Whether it is relationship, divorce or marriage issues, anxiety/depression, grief/loss or parenting problems, we can help. As a nationally licensed, clinical therapist, I use evidence based treatments to help you learn healthy life choices for a healthy balance! Today you are one step closer to a new you, on a path to health, well-being and life balance.
(217) 919-0395 View (217) 919-0395
Photo of Paula Moore, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Paula Moore
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Alton, IL 62002
Waitlist for new clients
I use CBT, EMDR and somatic processing as my main therapy modalities.
Most mental health symptoms can be traced back to trauma; it’s not what's wrong with you, but what has happened to you. The effects of trauma can last for a lifetime without an intervention. When there is trauma, negative beliefs are created, inhibiting our ability to function fully, affecting the way we view ourselves, others, and the world we live in. We may feel that if we could just "push through" or bury our symptoms and memories, that is enough, until it isn't. In the beginning of therapy, we focus on symptom relief with self-care, coping skills, and boundary setting - then, going further and healing the traumas.
I use CBT, EMDR and somatic processing as my main therapy modalities.
Most mental health symptoms can be traced back to trauma; it’s not what's wrong with you, but what has happened to you. The effects of trauma can last for a lifetime without an intervention. When there is trauma, negative beliefs are created, inhibiting our ability to function fully, affecting the way we view ourselves, others, and the world we live in. We may feel that if we could just "push through" or bury our symptoms and memories, that is enough, until it isn't. In the beginning of therapy, we focus on symptom relief with self-care, coping skills, and boundary setting - then, going further and healing the traumas.
(618) 822-3704 View (618) 822-3704
Photo of Pamela Dockstader Ortiz, PsyD, Psypact, IL/WI, License, Psychologist
Pamela Dockstader Ortiz
Psychologist, PsyD, Psypact, IL/WI, License
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
EMDR effectively lessens symptoms felt by trauma survivors.
"Making that first appointment, and asking for help, truly takes courage and is the first step to new beginnings." I believe that providing a safe and supportive space, combined with therapeutic collaboration, facilitates change. I utilize an eclectic approach and believe in using evidence based treatments, tailored for each unique individual, their specific needs, and desired goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are ready and motivated toward change, however, just aren't sure how to get there. Once given the proper tools and skills, options appear and the ability to choose a better path presents itself.
EMDR effectively lessens symptoms felt by trauma survivors.
"Making that first appointment, and asking for help, truly takes courage and is the first step to new beginnings." I believe that providing a safe and supportive space, combined with therapeutic collaboration, facilitates change. I utilize an eclectic approach and believe in using evidence based treatments, tailored for each unique individual, their specific needs, and desired goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are ready and motivated toward change, however, just aren't sure how to get there. Once given the proper tools and skills, options appear and the ability to choose a better path presents itself.
(630) 489-6227 View (630) 489-6227
Photo of Kaila Zimmerman-Moscovitch, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Kaila Zimmerman-Moscovitch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
I am trained in Crisis Intervention, EMDR, Brainspotting and the Gottman Method while using many other therapeutic approaches such as IFS, CBT, Attachment etc.
I am inspired to work with pre-teens, teens, young adults, and adults who have experienced: trauma/PTSD, sexual/domestic violence, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, stress and who may want to explore: peer/couple relationships, identity, self-love and self-compassion.
I am trained in Crisis Intervention, EMDR, Brainspotting and the Gottman Method while using many other therapeutic approaches such as IFS, CBT, Attachment etc.
I am inspired to work with pre-teens, teens, young adults, and adults who have experienced: trauma/PTSD, sexual/domestic violence, mood disorders, anxiety, depression, stress and who may want to explore: peer/couple relationships, identity, self-love and self-compassion.
(773) 389-2791 View (773) 389-2791
Photo of Holly Pearlman-Online Therapy, LCPC, LPCC, Counselor
Holly Pearlman-Online Therapy
Counselor, LCPC, LPCC
Verified Verified
Skokie, IL 60077  (Online Only)
I've been trained in EMDR and somatic experiencing with special attention in helping adults work through traumatic and stressful experiences.
I specialize in helping people heal from traumatic and experiences, to include: family conflicts, adults abused as children, narcissistic abuse, parental alienation and parents financially caring for adult children. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes so you can move forward in life. Stress, anxiety, and depression are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful experiences. I am a trauma therapist specializing in somatic psychology that has found success in using a mind/body approach to psychotherapy.
I've been trained in EMDR and somatic experiencing with special attention in helping adults work through traumatic and stressful experiences.
I specialize in helping people heal from traumatic and experiences, to include: family conflicts, adults abused as children, narcissistic abuse, parental alienation and parents financially caring for adult children. You may not know what to expect from therapy, but you know you need to make some changes so you can move forward in life. Stress, anxiety, and depression are highly prevalent in our lives, and sometimes people need help and support in dealing with difficult/stressful experiences. I am a trauma therapist specializing in somatic psychology that has found success in using a mind/body approach to psychotherapy.
(847) 423-6494 View (847) 423-6494
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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.