EMDR Therapists in Aurora, IL

Photo of Marloes Verhoeven, PsyD, Psychologist
Marloes Verhoeven
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
Waitlist for new clients
I am a Level 1 trained IFS therapist (Internal Family System) as well as an experienced EMDR therapist and use both modalities to help people heal from traumatic experiences, including (childhood) abuse, neglect, conflict, or loss/grief.
My clients consistently tell me what a profound positive impact our collaborative work in therapy has made on their lives, especially after they have felt "stuck" for a long time. Being able to "connect the dots," gain insights, and change behaviors can bring great relief and a sense of hope. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, or families cope with past, present, or chronic stressors and regain power and control over their lives and relationships. This is especially true for people who have experienced traumatic events and (as a result) may have symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, and/or anger.
I am a Level 1 trained IFS therapist (Internal Family System) as well as an experienced EMDR therapist and use both modalities to help people heal from traumatic experiences, including (childhood) abuse, neglect, conflict, or loss/grief.
My clients consistently tell me what a profound positive impact our collaborative work in therapy has made on their lives, especially after they have felt "stuck" for a long time. Being able to "connect the dots," gain insights, and change behaviors can bring great relief and a sense of hope. I enjoy helping individuals, couples, or families cope with past, present, or chronic stressors and regain power and control over their lives and relationships. This is especially true for people who have experienced traumatic events and (as a result) may have symptoms of anxiety, panic, depression, and/or anger.
(630) 313-4886 View (630) 313-4886
Photo of Stacy Ellis, PhD, Psychologist
Stacy Ellis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), I treat individuals with a history of trauma and can use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to release the emotional hold of past hurtful experiences.
I believe therapy can assist individuals in overcoming life's challenges. I have experience providing counseling to a diverse clientele including children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I utilize an integrative and collaborative approach to therapy to tailor treatment based on the needs and goals of each client. I aim to empower my clients while facilitating growth and healing, encouraging self-acceptance, and promoting healthy relationships. Within the therapeutic relationship, I hold your confidentiality in high regard and provide a nonjudgmental and supportive environment.
As a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP), I treat individuals with a history of trauma and can use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) to release the emotional hold of past hurtful experiences.
I believe therapy can assist individuals in overcoming life's challenges. I have experience providing counseling to a diverse clientele including children, adolescents, adults, and couples. I utilize an integrative and collaborative approach to therapy to tailor treatment based on the needs and goals of each client. I aim to empower my clients while facilitating growth and healing, encouraging self-acceptance, and promoting healthy relationships. Within the therapeutic relationship, I hold your confidentiality in high regard and provide a nonjudgmental and supportive environment.
(424) 434-4729 View (424) 434-4729
Photo of Laura Langes, PsyD, Psychologist
Laura Langes
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
Waitlist for new clients
I am particularly passionate about utilizing play, sand tray, and EMDR therapies to treat youth with developmental/attachment trauma.
We all have the capacity to reach our fullest potential. Yet all too often we find ourselves stuck in negative patterns of thinking and acting, unable to see other possibilities. Therapy allows us to make meaning of our difficult life experiences and open up to new ways of thinking, feeling, and being. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn to identify and express their emotions effectively, develop healthy ways of coping with difficult emotions, improve the quality of their relationships, and increase their self-esteem and sense of self-worth.
I am particularly passionate about utilizing play, sand tray, and EMDR therapies to treat youth with developmental/attachment trauma.
We all have the capacity to reach our fullest potential. Yet all too often we find ourselves stuck in negative patterns of thinking and acting, unable to see other possibilities. Therapy allows us to make meaning of our difficult life experiences and open up to new ways of thinking, feeling, and being. I strive to provide a safe and supportive environment where clients can learn to identify and express their emotions effectively, develop healthy ways of coping with difficult emotions, improve the quality of their relationships, and increase their self-esteem and sense of self-worth.
(630) 517-5766 View (630) 517-5766
Photo of Andre Joachim - Ascension Therapy Services, MSEd, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Ascension Therapy Services
Counselor, MSEd, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60506
In addition, my specialty interests include trauma/PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, chronic illness, EMDR, spiritual, grief and loss, transitional issues no matter the age, life transition, faith, sexual or gender identity.
We all experience ups and downs. When individuals or families are struggling with difficult emotions, behaviors, memories, or events, then therapy is one option for support. My passion is working alongside my clients to support healthy adjustment, effective communication, and healing. I integrate a variety of strategies including cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT), existential therapy, client-centered, and mindfulness. We will also consider the influence of your family's culture and history. Most importantly, we will create a space to explore your difficulties together, without judgment and in a safe space.
In addition, my specialty interests include trauma/PTSD, anxiety, ADHD, chronic illness, EMDR, spiritual, grief and loss, transitional issues no matter the age, life transition, faith, sexual or gender identity.
We all experience ups and downs. When individuals or families are struggling with difficult emotions, behaviors, memories, or events, then therapy is one option for support. My passion is working alongside my clients to support healthy adjustment, effective communication, and healing. I integrate a variety of strategies including cognitive-behavioral techniques (CBT), existential therapy, client-centered, and mindfulness. We will also consider the influence of your family's culture and history. Most importantly, we will create a space to explore your difficulties together, without judgment and in a safe space.
(331) 259-8569 View (331) 259-8569
Photo of Susan Elizabeth Pauna - Susan Pauna, MS, LCPC, MS, LCPC, Counselor
Susan Pauna, MS, LCPC
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60505
I utilize experiential therapies, including EMDR and Somatic Experiencing.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are suffering from anxiety, depression or PTSD? Are you ready to make a positive change in your life? What change would you like to see happen in yourself and your life and how would you feel different as a result? Life can sometimes feel overwhelming and counseling can help. We can discover long-standing patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a more meaningful life. Whether you are looking for extra support and guidance through a difficult situation or you are just ready to move to a new direction in life, I look forward to working with you.
I utilize experiential therapies, including EMDR and Somatic Experiencing.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Are suffering from anxiety, depression or PTSD? Are you ready to make a positive change in your life? What change would you like to see happen in yourself and your life and how would you feel different as a result? Life can sometimes feel overwhelming and counseling can help. We can discover long-standing patterns that may be holding you back from experiencing a more meaningful life. Whether you are looking for extra support and guidance through a difficult situation or you are just ready to move to a new direction in life, I look forward to working with you.
(630) 474-3172 View (630) 474-3172
Photo of Keith Levasseur, LCPC, Counselor
Keith Levasseur
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a phenomenal treatment approach for trauma related issues.
I have worked as a counselor for over 20 years. I see people of all ages from 4 years old to 60 years of age. Much of my practice focuses on treating issues of trauma and anxiety. I enjoy seeing the transformation in many of my clients when I treat their trauma issues with EMDR. I also specialize in working with children and families. I treat many types of childhood issues, including behavior problems, depression, ADHD, and abuse issues.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a phenomenal treatment approach for trauma related issues.
I have worked as a counselor for over 20 years. I see people of all ages from 4 years old to 60 years of age. Much of my practice focuses on treating issues of trauma and anxiety. I enjoy seeing the transformation in many of my clients when I treat their trauma issues with EMDR. I also specialize in working with children and families. I treat many types of childhood issues, including behavior problems, depression, ADHD, and abuse issues.
(630) 765-3801 View (630) 765-3801
Photo of Carrie Steiner - First Responders Wellness Center, PsyD, Psychologist
First Responders Wellness Center
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60506
We offer individual therapy, yearly wellness checks, crisis intervention training, individual & group critical incident debriefing, EMDR, CBT, and trauma based therapies.
We solely see first responders, ER staff, and veterans at the FRWC. Being a former Chicago Police Officer for 13 years, I understand the unique needs of first responders and developed the center to help those who protect us. We see first responders due to trauma, crisis, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, job-related stress, suicide, etc. We also understand how there are concerns about engaging in therapy services and protecting your job. We ensure that you will have privacy and confidentiality. We have a separate entrance and exit to maintain confidentiality.
We offer individual therapy, yearly wellness checks, crisis intervention training, individual & group critical incident debriefing, EMDR, CBT, and trauma based therapies.
We solely see first responders, ER staff, and veterans at the FRWC. Being a former Chicago Police Officer for 13 years, I understand the unique needs of first responders and developed the center to help those who protect us. We see first responders due to trauma, crisis, PTSD, anxiety, depression, relationship problems, job-related stress, suicide, etc. We also understand how there are concerns about engaging in therapy services and protecting your job. We ensure that you will have privacy and confidentiality. We have a separate entrance and exit to maintain confidentiality.
(630) 883-0439 View (630) 883-0439
Photo of Pamela Dockstader Ortiz, PsyD, Psypact, IL/WI, License, Psychologist
Pamela Dockstader Ortiz
Psychologist, PsyD, Psypact, IL/WI, License
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60503  (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 Roberto Peña Jr., MSW, MBA, LCSW, CADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Roberto Peña Jr.
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, MBA, LCSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
I am a Certified Alcohol and other Drugs Counselor (CADC), I have completed clinical training in sex therapy and clinical training with EMDR Consulting in trauma (EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
I am a therapist that enjoys working with individual, couples, families, adolescents, and Veterans. I have over thrity years of experience in the field of mental health and substance abuse. I seek to provide a safe and collaborative therapy environment that facilitates growth and healing for the unique needs of each client. I provide guidance to those seeking self-empowerment and inner healing. I am fluent in English and Spanish and can offer bilingual counseling as well. I enjoy working with men and women seeking a holistic experience through therapy.
I am a Certified Alcohol and other Drugs Counselor (CADC), I have completed clinical training in sex therapy and clinical training with EMDR Consulting in trauma (EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
I am a therapist that enjoys working with individual, couples, families, adolescents, and Veterans. I have over thrity years of experience in the field of mental health and substance abuse. I seek to provide a safe and collaborative therapy environment that facilitates growth and healing for the unique needs of each client. I provide guidance to those seeking self-empowerment and inner healing. I am fluent in English and Spanish and can offer bilingual counseling as well. I enjoy working with men and women seeking a holistic experience through therapy.
(630) 756-5640 View (630) 756-5640
Photo of Nancy Robin Krtek, ND, LCSW, LCSW-R, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nancy Robin Krtek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, ND, LCSW, LCSW-R
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60506
Therapeutic interventions include integrative approaches along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psycho-Education, as well as Eastern philosophical tenets, and EMDR. If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Addiction issues, a Trauma history, Dissociative Disorders or Personality Disorders, you will receive competent, compassionate and empathic care. Treatment needs can be met through individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and/or group therapy. Other issues that I can help you with are Eating Disorders, Weight management, Pain management/somatic issues. as well as Grief/Loss issues. Check out my Facebook page "Nancy Krtek Mind/Body Practitioner."
Therapeutic interventions include integrative approaches along with Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Schema Therapy, Psycho-Education, as well as Eastern philosophical tenets, and EMDR. If you deal with Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Addiction issues, a Trauma history, Dissociative Disorders or Personality Disorders, you will receive competent, compassionate and empathic care. Treatment needs can be met through individual therapy, family therapy, couples therapy and/or group therapy. Other issues that I can help you with are Eating Disorders, Weight management, Pain management/somatic issues. as well as Grief/Loss issues. Check out my Facebook page "Nancy Krtek Mind/Body Practitioner."
(630) 282-6959 View (630) 282-6959
Photo of Jeff Lucas, LCPC, CADC, EMDR, Counselor
Jeff Lucas
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60504
I specialize in treating such areas as addictions, marital/family issues, and anxiety/depression brought on by the traumas of life using a variety of traditional and alternative therapy approaches such as talk therapy, EMDR and visualization.
I have a style of working with clients that deeply honors and values their inherent capacity to heal and improve the quality of their lives. Simply creating a space for individuals to honestly explore and reflect on their inner thoughts, feelings, and being spurs psycho-spiritual transformation.
I specialize in treating such areas as addictions, marital/family issues, and anxiety/depression brought on by the traumas of life using a variety of traditional and alternative therapy approaches such as talk therapy, EMDR and visualization.
I have a style of working with clients that deeply honors and values their inherent capacity to heal and improve the quality of their lives. Simply creating a space for individuals to honestly explore and reflect on their inner thoughts, feelings, and being spurs psycho-spiritual transformation.
(630) 743-6859 View (630) 743-6859
Photo of Brian W Rooney, PhD, Psychologist
Brian W Rooney
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
These include EMDR, cognitive-behavioral, and relational ways for addressing your wants and needs.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make their lives feel and work better. Whether it is healing old wounds, learning new ways, or adjusting our roles and communication with others, we have the capacity to be happier and under less strain. While personal struggles are no fun, they are almost always real opportunities for growth. Since we have to do it ourselves, but can't usually do it alone, I relish being a collaborator with someone who is learning to feel better and grow.
These include EMDR, cognitive-behavioral, and relational ways for addressing your wants and needs.
I enjoy working with people who are ready to make their lives feel and work better. Whether it is healing old wounds, learning new ways, or adjusting our roles and communication with others, we have the capacity to be happier and under less strain. While personal struggles are no fun, they are almost always real opportunities for growth. Since we have to do it ourselves, but can't usually do it alone, I relish being a collaborator with someone who is learning to feel better and grow.
(630) 557-6443 View (630) 557-6443
Photo of Anna K Zabiegly - Anna K Zabiegly, Psy.D., P.C., PsyD, Psychologist
Anna K Zabiegly, Psy.D., P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful method of psychotherapy that has been declared an effective form of trauma treatment by a wide range of organizations including the American Psychiatric Association, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, and the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I dedicate my practice to the treatment of adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. I help clients overcome traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, & adjustment difficulties. I combine compassion and collaborative psychotherapy with EMDR to help clients reach optimal performance and transform their lives. In addition, I appreciate the personal difficulties athletes face and assist in breaking through mental barriers that prevent them from performing to their potential.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful method of psychotherapy that has been declared an effective form of trauma treatment by a wide range of organizations including the American Psychiatric Association, the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies, and the Departments of Defense and Veterans Affairs.
As a licensed clinical psychologist I dedicate my practice to the treatment of adolescent, adult, and older adult populations. I help clients overcome traumatic experiences, anxiety, depression, & adjustment difficulties. I combine compassion and collaborative psychotherapy with EMDR to help clients reach optimal performance and transform their lives. In addition, I appreciate the personal difficulties athletes face and assist in breaking through mental barriers that prevent them from performing to their potential.
(630) 812-0922 View (630) 812-0922
Photo of Toyah T Wilson, PsyD, Psychologist
Toyah T Wilson
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
I utilize EMDR, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral approaches to therapy.
Have life changes overwhelmed you, leaving you feeling lost and confused? Are you a new mother struggling to adjust? Do you feel past experiences negatively impact your current relationships? Feeling as if nothing you do is ever good enough? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help you. I strongly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to discover their voice and be heard. Therapy provides a unique opportunity to express yourself in a safe environment. Through our relationship you can begin to discover new skills, strengths, and a healthy self esteem to address your concerns.
I utilize EMDR, psychodynamic and cognitive behavioral approaches to therapy.
Have life changes overwhelmed you, leaving you feeling lost and confused? Are you a new mother struggling to adjust? Do you feel past experiences negatively impact your current relationships? Feeling as if nothing you do is ever good enough? If you answered yes to any of these questions, I can help you. I strongly believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to discover their voice and be heard. Therapy provides a unique opportunity to express yourself in a safe environment. Through our relationship you can begin to discover new skills, strengths, and a healthy self esteem to address your concerns.
(331) 244-0286 View (331) 244-0286
Photo of Suzette R. Papadakis, LCPC, NCC, CGT, Counselor
Suzette R. Papadakis
Counselor, LCPC, NCC, CGT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504  (Online Only)
Suzette is EMDR trained for trauma issues.
Suzette provides effective counseling as an experienced caring professional. Her approach is customized to meet you where you are struggling with warmth and trust. With over 20 years of experience in providing help for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and couples counseling.
Suzette is EMDR trained for trauma issues.
Suzette provides effective counseling as an experienced caring professional. Her approach is customized to meet you where you are struggling with warmth and trust. With over 20 years of experience in providing help for depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and couples counseling.
(331) 210-9482 View (331) 210-9482
Photo of Torus Therapy Llc - Torus Therapy LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Torus Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
Torus Therapy guides you in self healing to uncover your life's purpose. We understand that life can be a struggle, and sometimes it is hard to make it through. Our purpose sometimes gets clouded by challenges, and you may be fighting to see what your purpose truely is. You may have something that recently happened that you are struggling with, or may be you have been struggling for a long time. We all have purpose, and we are here to help you reclaim it. We help you through guidance, self discovery, and helping you find your own inner strength. We are trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, and Prolonged CBT.
Torus Therapy guides you in self healing to uncover your life's purpose. We understand that life can be a struggle, and sometimes it is hard to make it through. Our purpose sometimes gets clouded by challenges, and you may be fighting to see what your purpose truely is. You may have something that recently happened that you are struggling with, or may be you have been struggling for a long time. We all have purpose, and we are here to help you reclaim it. We help you through guidance, self discovery, and helping you find your own inner strength. We are trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, and Prolonged CBT.
(630) 206-4608 View (630) 206-4608
Photo of Audra Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audra Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502
I am interested in working with clients with all different needs, backgrounds and experiences. I am passionate about working with clients who are ready to have a safe, consistent and effective space to process their therapeutic needs. As an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, I am enthusiastic to implement this highly effective technique for various matters such as depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and more.
I am interested in working with clients with all different needs, backgrounds and experiences. I am passionate about working with clients who are ready to have a safe, consistent and effective space to process their therapeutic needs. As an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapist, I am enthusiastic to implement this highly effective technique for various matters such as depression, anxiety, trauma/PTSD, and more.
(331) 210-9598 View (331) 210-9598
Photo of Michele D. Briones, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Michele D. Briones
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60502  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy which is a proven treatment for trauma as well as many other issues.
My goal is to provide a safe and inviting environment for individuals, couples and families to work on changing dysfunctional patterns that interfere with relationships and general life satisfaction. I enjoy helping people find happiness and success in their lives by meeting them emotionally where they are and collaborating to create the life they desire. The best gift you can give yourself is a better understanding of who you are and how you want to create a genuine and authentic existence. My style is one of warmth and empathy with therapeutic interventions to help you attain your treatment goals.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy which is a proven treatment for trauma as well as many other issues.
My goal is to provide a safe and inviting environment for individuals, couples and families to work on changing dysfunctional patterns that interfere with relationships and general life satisfaction. I enjoy helping people find happiness and success in their lives by meeting them emotionally where they are and collaborating to create the life they desire. The best gift you can give yourself is a better understanding of who you are and how you want to create a genuine and authentic existence. My style is one of warmth and empathy with therapeutic interventions to help you attain your treatment goals.
(331) 979-3003 View (331) 979-3003
Photo of Christine Ruiz, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Ruiz
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Aurora, IL 60502  (Online Only)
She creates treatment plans by pulling techniques from trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and EMDR.
Christine Ruiz is a licensed clinical social worker. Christine is passionate about supporting people as they work toward their goals. She seeks to inspire her patients so they can become their best selves. Christine focuses on helping individuals heal and tap into their inner strengths. She achieves this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to her patient's concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that factors in the patient's cultural background, life experience, and personal goals. Christine has been providing therapy since 2016 and works with patients ages 12-64.
She creates treatment plans by pulling techniques from trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy, solution-focused therapy, and EMDR.
Christine Ruiz is a licensed clinical social worker. Christine is passionate about supporting people as they work toward their goals. She seeks to inspire her patients so they can become their best selves. Christine focuses on helping individuals heal and tap into their inner strengths. She achieves this by providing a neutral safe space, listening to her patient's concerns, and customizing a treatment plan that factors in the patient's cultural background, life experience, and personal goals. Christine has been providing therapy since 2016 and works with patients ages 12-64.
(872) 713-6752 View (872) 713-6752
Photo of Dr. Kristen Brendel, PhD, LCSW, PEL, C-IAYT, CYT, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dr. Kristen Brendel
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, PEL, C-IAYT, CYT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Aurora, IL 60504
I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 25 years of experience helping clients achieve their goals through a collaborative and evidence-based approach. My practice welcomes individuals seeking support with stress, anxiety, trauma, pain management, and a variety of life challenges. I also regularly work with other therapists, educators, and healthcare professionals. I specialize in treating stress-related issues, women's health concerns across different stages of life, chronic medical conditions, and anxiety disorders. My expertise encompasses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, and EMDR therapy.
I am a licensed clinical therapist with over 25 years of experience helping clients achieve their goals through a collaborative and evidence-based approach. My practice welcomes individuals seeking support with stress, anxiety, trauma, pain management, and a variety of life challenges. I also regularly work with other therapists, educators, and healthcare professionals. I specialize in treating stress-related issues, women's health concerns across different stages of life, chronic medical conditions, and anxiety disorders. My expertise encompasses Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions, and EMDR therapy.
(630) 333-4204 View (630) 333-4204
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.