Photo of Chevonne Toney - CLT & Associates Therapy and Mediation Services, LCPC, Counselor
CLT & Associates Therapy and Mediation Services
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Berwyn, IL 60402  (Online Only)
My services are completely client focused. Depending on the client's needs, my goal is to help my client address unresolved trauma that is currently affecting their daily life, provide brief symptom focused treatment, provide life coaching and assist client in setting life goals and setting them on the path to achievement. I currently accept commercial insurance as well as those with Illinois Medicaid, so everyone is able to receive quality mental health services. You can also access my services via the Grow Therapy App.
My services are completely client focused. Depending on the client's needs, my goal is to help my client address unresolved trauma that is currently affecting their daily life, provide brief symptom focused treatment, provide life coaching and assist client in setting life goals and setting them on the path to achievement. I currently accept commercial insurance as well as those with Illinois Medicaid, so everyone is able to receive quality mental health services. You can also access my services via the Grow Therapy App.
(708) 840-8265 View (708) 840-8265

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Julie McDevitt, LCPC, BCC, LBS, Counselor
Julie McDevitt
Counselor, LCPC, BCC, LBS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Westmont, IL 60559
Lastly, I do EMDR for help decrease symptoms of trauma and early childhood stressors.
Every family is fighting their own battle. Whether it is addiction, depression, or inability to get along, you are not alone. Sometimes those struggles become so overwhelming, that finding support is your best option. If you have decided to stop suffering alone, you are in the right place. I work with Mothers, Fathers and Families to address their individual and family struggles. Individuals who I help are often battling symptoms of: ADHD, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Divorce, Sex and Porn Addiction or Life Transitions. See Personal Client Reviews at HealthGrades.com
Lastly, I do EMDR for help decrease symptoms of trauma and early childhood stressors.
Every family is fighting their own battle. Whether it is addiction, depression, or inability to get along, you are not alone. Sometimes those struggles become so overwhelming, that finding support is your best option. If you have decided to stop suffering alone, you are in the right place. I work with Mothers, Fathers and Families to address their individual and family struggles. Individuals who I help are often battling symptoms of: ADHD, Anger, Depression, Anxiety, Divorce, Sex and Porn Addiction or Life Transitions. See Personal Client Reviews at HealthGrades.com
(630) 206-3054 View (630) 206-3054
Photo of Stephanie Grunewald - Restorative Counseling, PhD, LCPC, LCSW, Psychologist
Restorative Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Each clinician has unique experience and specialization including advanced training in ACT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR, as well as other evidence-based practices.
We believe you already have all you need to be successful within you. Our strength-based approach will help identify and utilize your strengths to create a strong foundation for success. Our team celebrates diversity and views it as a strength. We are an open and accepting community that is welcoming to all. Our clinicians’ unique backgrounds and specialties allow us to address a comprehensive range of difficulties.
Each clinician has unique experience and specialization including advanced training in ACT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR, as well as other evidence-based practices.
We believe you already have all you need to be successful within you. Our strength-based approach will help identify and utilize your strengths to create a strong foundation for success. Our team celebrates diversity and views it as a strength. We are an open and accepting community that is welcoming to all. Our clinicians’ unique backgrounds and specialties allow us to address a comprehensive range of difficulties.
(312) 883-7060 View (312) 883-7060
Photo of Matthew Joseph Lieser, MA, LCPC
Matthew Joseph Lieser
MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I specialize in reconciling faith and sexuality to heal past wounds, EMDR and trauma, men's issues, self-esteem, existentialism, LGBTQ, anxiety and depression.
Building trust comes from telling your story in a safe space. Together we can create a therapeutic alliance that is conducive towards self discovery, growth, and fulfilling your potential. I see my role as your therapist to provide a space of care and concern coupled with providing real insights that can help you grow and face challenges.
I specialize in reconciling faith and sexuality to heal past wounds, EMDR and trauma, men's issues, self-esteem, existentialism, LGBTQ, anxiety and depression.
Building trust comes from telling your story in a safe space. Together we can create a therapeutic alliance that is conducive towards self discovery, growth, and fulfilling your potential. I see my role as your therapist to provide a space of care and concern coupled with providing real insights that can help you grow and face challenges.
(773) 770-6854 View (773) 770-6854
Photo of Sarah Marie Lheureux - Sarah Marie LHeureux LLC, LPC-CO, LCPC-IL, ATR, MAAT, RMT, Counselor
Sarah Marie LHeureux LLC
Counselor, LPC-CO, LCPC-IL, ATR, MAAT, RMT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
Have you ever struggled to talk about the tough shit? Do you want to understand how your past experiences created your current behaviors and emotions, and how to shift out of them? You can improve your life, and make lasting changes that begin at a place of awareness. I practice using a mixture of modalities including EMDR, CBT, DBT, MI, Attachment Theory, parts work, and expressive therapies​. We all have experienced big or small traumas in our lives that are influenced by our environments, family dynamics, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientation and life experiences.
Have you ever struggled to talk about the tough shit? Do you want to understand how your past experiences created your current behaviors and emotions, and how to shift out of them? You can improve your life, and make lasting changes that begin at a place of awareness. I practice using a mixture of modalities including EMDR, CBT, DBT, MI, Attachment Theory, parts work, and expressive therapies​. We all have experienced big or small traumas in our lives that are influenced by our environments, family dynamics, cultural backgrounds, sexual orientation and life experiences.
(303) 529-6570 View (303) 529-6570
Photo of Alexis Lopez-Palomar, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexis Lopez-Palomar
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting and Sensorimotor Therapy.
I specialize in working with trauma survivors who want to increase their self-compassion, understand themselves more fully, build healthier boundaries with those around them and increase their sense of safety. I thoroughly enjoy working with the following populations: BIPOC, 1st & 2nd Generation Immigrants, Sex workers, Survivors of Human Trafficking, Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Survivors, LGBTQIA+., Adult Children of Abusive Parents.
I am trained in EMDR, Brainspotting and Sensorimotor Therapy.
I specialize in working with trauma survivors who want to increase their self-compassion, understand themselves more fully, build healthier boundaries with those around them and increase their sense of safety. I thoroughly enjoy working with the following populations: BIPOC, 1st & 2nd Generation Immigrants, Sex workers, Survivors of Human Trafficking, Domestic Violence and Sexual Abuse Survivors, LGBTQIA+., Adult Children of Abusive Parents.
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Photo of Alisha Dusty, MEd, LCMHC
Alisha Dusty
Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor, MEd, LCMHC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60629  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy, Ego State Interventions, and Motivational Interviewing.
Do you feel like your past experiences are negatively affecting your present? Or often think you are "not good enough"? This negative belief can stem from hurtful messages from our family, peers, authority figures, and others. It may be difficult to imagine thinking differently. We can work together to help you emotionally process painful experiences and put them into a more self-compassionate perspective, develop your confidence and coping skills, increase feelings of peace and calm, and create more space in your life for what is most meaningful to you. It is possible to find relief with therapeutic support.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) Therapy, Ego State Interventions, and Motivational Interviewing.
Do you feel like your past experiences are negatively affecting your present? Or often think you are "not good enough"? This negative belief can stem from hurtful messages from our family, peers, authority figures, and others. It may be difficult to imagine thinking differently. We can work together to help you emotionally process painful experiences and put them into a more self-compassionate perspective, develop your confidence and coping skills, increase feelings of peace and calm, and create more space in your life for what is most meaningful to you. It is possible to find relief with therapeutic support.
(984) 231-9317 View (984) 231-9317
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners Pllc - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, MA, LPC, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60616
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 an Integrative approach and help 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 an Integrative approach and help 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 Kyle Cosentino, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Kyle Cosentino
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
By integrating techniques from EMDR, grounding techniques, and CBT, I tailor treatment plans to address each client's unique goals.
Do you find yourself being controlled by anxiety and worry, despite doing everything you can to try and change it? You may be fed up with feeling locked inside of yourself in everyday situations, disconnected from friends who struggle to understand, or even as if the walls are closing in on you. It is also possible that you forgot what it feels like to be relaxed, happy, and carefree. One thing for sure is is that your want to feel better. You're ready to leave your safe space and make enjoy life enjoyable again. You're ready to be at peace with yourself and have hope for the future.Click on my website to book an appointment!
By integrating techniques from EMDR, grounding techniques, and CBT, I tailor treatment plans to address each client's unique goals.
Do you find yourself being controlled by anxiety and worry, despite doing everything you can to try and change it? You may be fed up with feeling locked inside of yourself in everyday situations, disconnected from friends who struggle to understand, or even as if the walls are closing in on you. It is also possible that you forgot what it feels like to be relaxed, happy, and carefree. One thing for sure is is that your want to feel better. You're ready to leave your safe space and make enjoy life enjoyable again. You're ready to be at peace with yourself and have hope for the future.Click on my website to book an appointment!
(708) 231-9100 View (708) 231-9100
Photo of A'nna Jurich, MS, LCPC, LPC, CRADC, Counselor
A'nna Jurich
Counselor, MS, LCPC, LPC, CRADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, CBT, and Mindfulness.
I love helping people overcome struggles so that they can fully enjoy life as it is meant to be! Things happen, and sometimes even our best efforts aren’t enough to change behaviors, or to let go of events, losses, or fears. Everyone can heal and change. I will listen to your unique story and help guide you to freedom from your struggles.
I am trained in Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, CBT, and Mindfulness.
I love helping people overcome struggles so that they can fully enjoy life as it is meant to be! Things happen, and sometimes even our best efforts aren’t enough to change behaviors, or to let go of events, losses, or fears. Everyone can heal and change. I will listen to your unique story and help guide you to freedom from your struggles.
(618) 262-0151 View (618) 262-0151
Photo of Ali Quigley-Holmbeck, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ali Quigley-Holmbeck
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60608
Gardening, Cooking, Nature, Art, and EMDR Therapies are also available at EECC.
Starting your mental health journey can be scary, but I'm glad you're here. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to begin this experience. I look forward to supporting you along the way. My name is Ali, and I'm the founder of Equine Empowered Counseling Center, located in rural Hennepin, Illinois. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in IL, with 17 years of professional work experience. My goal is to provide clients with a warm and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It is my stance that the use of appropriately timed humor allows us to reduce the intensity of life's struggles.
Gardening, Cooking, Nature, Art, and EMDR Therapies are also available at EECC.
Starting your mental health journey can be scary, but I'm glad you're here. It takes a tremendous amount of courage to begin this experience. I look forward to supporting you along the way. My name is Ali, and I'm the founder of Equine Empowered Counseling Center, located in rural Hennepin, Illinois. I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in IL, with 17 years of professional work experience. My goal is to provide clients with a warm and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It is my stance that the use of appropriately timed humor allows us to reduce the intensity of life's struggles.
(815) 863-0811 View (815) 863-0811
Photo of Elizabeth Einig, LSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Elizabeth Einig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Willowbrook, IL 60527
I often use a mix of evidence-based treatments including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and somatic-focused interventions.
Hi! I'm Elizabeth, a licensed social worker in Willowbrook and Forest Park, IL at Calm Mind Counseling Center. I see kids (7+), teens, and adults facing a variety of concerns, such as trauma, childhood abuse and/or neglect of all kinds, anxiety, difficult family dynamics, depression, disordered eating, and low self-esteem. Through our work together, I hope to help you find a greater sense of peace, increase awareness of your needs and emotions, build your confidence and sense of autonomy, and offer helpful tools to manage stress. I'd be honored to support you on our journey towards growth!
I often use a mix of evidence-based treatments including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, DBT, Internal Family Systems, and somatic-focused interventions.
Hi! I'm Elizabeth, a licensed social worker in Willowbrook and Forest Park, IL at Calm Mind Counseling Center. I see kids (7+), teens, and adults facing a variety of concerns, such as trauma, childhood abuse and/or neglect of all kinds, anxiety, difficult family dynamics, depression, disordered eating, and low self-esteem. Through our work together, I hope to help you find a greater sense of peace, increase awareness of your needs and emotions, build your confidence and sense of autonomy, and offer helpful tools to manage stress. I'd be honored to support you on our journey towards growth!
(331) 296-3494 View (331) 296-3494
Photo of Scott L Robinowitz - Chicago Therapy & Wellness PLLC, LCSW
Chicago Therapy & Wellness PLLC
LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60614
We have expertise working with trauma ( EMDR ready), gender, sexuality, anxiety, self-esteem, mood disorders, personality disorders, life adjustments, grief, depression and anger.
Our perspective is that everyone's life has a story, and therapy is a way to identify and change that story to fit with your goals and values. Seeking therapy can be difficult, and we enjoy supporting people in finding their narrative and re-writing it the way they desire to fit their needs. As strength-based and client-centered therapists, we believe that meeting people where they are enables them to feel at ease and supported in the process. Helping others identify their innate strengths and using them is a large part of my philosophy. We are an anti racist practice and pride ourselves on being able to serve BIPOC populations.
We have expertise working with trauma ( EMDR ready), gender, sexuality, anxiety, self-esteem, mood disorders, personality disorders, life adjustments, grief, depression and anger.
Our perspective is that everyone's life has a story, and therapy is a way to identify and change that story to fit with your goals and values. Seeking therapy can be difficult, and we enjoy supporting people in finding their narrative and re-writing it the way they desire to fit their needs. As strength-based and client-centered therapists, we believe that meeting people where they are enables them to feel at ease and supported in the process. Helping others identify their innate strengths and using them is a large part of my philosophy. We are an anti racist practice and pride ourselves on being able to serve BIPOC populations.
(872) 395-6022 View (872) 395-6022
Photo of Ethan York, MA, LCPC, EMDR-C, Counselor
Ethan York
Counselor, MA, LCPC, EMDR-C
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Being queer myself, I often work with LGBTQ young adults and teens who are navigating life stressors while forming their identities. I’m formally certified with EMDRIA international in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and often use this approach to support clients' healing from childhood & other interpersonal traumatic experiences. I also assist clients in their processing of other aspects of identity including family, ethnicity, faith, and spirituality. I am very passionate about working with queer folks, people of faith, and additionally, those with post-traumatic stress symptoms and/or PTSD.
Being queer myself, I often work with LGBTQ young adults and teens who are navigating life stressors while forming their identities. I’m formally certified with EMDRIA international in EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) and often use this approach to support clients' healing from childhood & other interpersonal traumatic experiences. I also assist clients in their processing of other aspects of identity including family, ethnicity, faith, and spirituality. I am very passionate about working with queer folks, people of faith, and additionally, those with post-traumatic stress symptoms and/or PTSD.
(630) 381-7837 View (630) 381-7837
Photo of Briena Wyckstandt, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Briena Wyckstandt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Stone Park, IL 60165
Hi! My name is Briena Wyckstandt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience. I offer many therapy approaches with specific training in EMDR, DBT, and TF-CBT. I have experience working with all age ranges but most specifically teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Hi! My name is Briena Wyckstandt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience. I offer many therapy approaches with specific training in EMDR, DBT, and TF-CBT. I have experience working with all age ranges but most specifically teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(312) 900-8542 View (312) 900-8542
Photo of LaVoris Lee, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
LaVoris Lee
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I work with everyone in need. My approach is integrative, combining the structured and goal-oriented nature of CBT, the trauma-focused methodology of EMDR, and the depth-oriented insights of psychoanalysis. This blend allows me to address both the symptoms and underlying issues my clients face.
I work with everyone in need. My approach is integrative, combining the structured and goal-oriented nature of CBT, the trauma-focused methodology of EMDR, and the depth-oriented insights of psychoanalysis. This blend allows me to address both the symptoms and underlying issues my clients face.
(630) 626-8901 View (630) 626-8901
Photo of Cassandra Perez, MS, LPC, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Cassandra Perez
Counselor, MS, LPC, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Attachment Therapy and aspects of Theraplay.
Hello! Congratulations on taking your first steps to bettering your mental health. My name is Cassandra (Cassie). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Michigan) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (IL) who has worked with a wide range of clients from young children to adults and families. I believe that each individual is unique and special; therefore, I prefer an eclectic and collaborative approach to counseling; developing the treatment plan to reflect your unique needs.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR), Trauma Focused - Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy, Attachment Therapy and aspects of Theraplay.
Hello! Congratulations on taking your first steps to bettering your mental health. My name is Cassandra (Cassie). I am a Licensed Professional Counselor (Michigan) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (IL) who has worked with a wide range of clients from young children to adults and families. I believe that each individual is unique and special; therefore, I prefer an eclectic and collaborative approach to counseling; developing the treatment plan to reflect your unique needs.
(224) 218-5391 View (224) 218-5391
Photo of Melody Chen - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, LCPC, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657
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 an Integrative approach and help 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 an Integrative approach and help 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 Phil Doherty, LPC, Counselor
Phil Doherty
Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Forest Park, IL 60130
I am trained in EMDR and Gottman therapy, and am constantly learning to remain up-to-date with modern treatments for mental health.
Deciding to embark on the journey of therapy can be daunting, yet it marks a courageous step towards healing and self-discovery. I specialize in working with couples, children, and adolescents. Although I am trained in modalities including EMDR, Play and Gottman therapy, my trauma-informed approach is rooted in compassion and tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
I am trained in EMDR and Gottman therapy, and am constantly learning to remain up-to-date with modern treatments for mental health.
Deciding to embark on the journey of therapy can be daunting, yet it marks a courageous step towards healing and self-discovery. I specialize in working with couples, children, and adolescents. Although I am trained in modalities including EMDR, Play and Gottman therapy, my trauma-informed approach is rooted in compassion and tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.
(708) 847-4939 View (708) 847-4939
Photo of Chelsea Dillavou, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Chelsea Dillavou
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60602  (Online Only)
Welcome to a space where it's okay to be who you are! I specialize in complex and developmental trauma, with extensive experience in anxiety OCD, and mood disorders. Together we can navigate your past and come into the present. Along the way, we will develop healthy ways to manage the stressors and circumstances that can throw us off balance mentally and physiologically. I am trained in a variety of effective modalities, including EMDR, IFS, CPT, and DBT that we can use to bring clarity, calm and compassion to your life.
Welcome to a space where it's okay to be who you are! I specialize in complex and developmental trauma, with extensive experience in anxiety OCD, and mood disorders. Together we can navigate your past and come into the present. Along the way, we will develop healthy ways to manage the stressors and circumstances that can throw us off balance mentally and physiologically. I am trained in a variety of effective modalities, including EMDR, IFS, CPT, and DBT that we can use to bring clarity, calm and compassion to your life.
(224) 442-9128 View (224) 442-9128
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.