EMDR Therapists in Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL

Photo of Emily Woods, LCPC, Counselor
Emily Woods
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant in Training.
I specialize in working with individuals who have a trauma history or are experiencing distressing life events and may be struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship issues. Often clients come to me feeling lost or not knowing where to begin. I welcome clients as they are; offering a judgment-free space to help them gain clarity and direction. With compassion and respect for my clients' stories, together we begin understanding how patterns and relationships from our past can impact our present. I help clients better understand all parts of themself so they can make small changes towards their ultimate goals.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant in Training.
I specialize in working with individuals who have a trauma history or are experiencing distressing life events and may be struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship issues. Often clients come to me feeling lost or not knowing where to begin. I welcome clients as they are; offering a judgment-free space to help them gain clarity and direction. With compassion and respect for my clients' stories, together we begin understanding how patterns and relationships from our past can impact our present. I help clients better understand all parts of themself so they can make small changes towards their ultimate goals.
(312) 436-2271 View (312) 436-2271
Photo of Rosalynn Recine, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rosalynn Recine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
My primary approach to treating trauma is EMDR and mindfulness based techniques.
I use a holistic approach to healing that includes mind, body and spirit. I have a particular focus on women's health issues, sexual abuse, and PTSD. Every pain, trauma, and obstacle we experience in life has information to share with us. The most difficult times we face can be truly transformative if we know how to listen to them. Sometimes we can get lost down these turbulent roads and my job is to help you navigate the path that you are already on.
My primary approach to treating trauma is EMDR and mindfulness based techniques.
I use a holistic approach to healing that includes mind, body and spirit. I have a particular focus on women's health issues, sexual abuse, and PTSD. Every pain, trauma, and obstacle we experience in life has information to share with us. The most difficult times we face can be truly transformative if we know how to listen to them. Sometimes we can get lost down these turbulent roads and my job is to help you navigate the path that you are already on.
(872) 246-9764 View (872) 246-9764
Photo of Michele D. Briones, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Michele D. Briones
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
My counseling approaches are client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, EMDR and psychodynamic.
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.
My counseling approaches are client-centered, cognitive-behavioral, dialectical-behavioral, EMDR and psychodynamic.
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 Dasi Ginnis, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dasi Ginnis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
I provide EMDR to clients suffering from symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
When difficult emotions or experiences interfere with our ability to enjoy life, it can be hard to figure out what to do. You might feel stuck in patterns of thoughts or behaviors that are making it hard for you to fully engage in life. I can help you move through this challenging time and emerge feeling happier, stronger and more like yourself. Together we will discover the tools and skills you have within you to support healing, growth, and change in your life. You and I will uncover a happier and more peaceful you.
I provide EMDR to clients suffering from symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder.
When difficult emotions or experiences interfere with our ability to enjoy life, it can be hard to figure out what to do. You might feel stuck in patterns of thoughts or behaviors that are making it hard for you to fully engage in life. I can help you move through this challenging time and emerge feeling happier, stronger and more like yourself. Together we will discover the tools and skills you have within you to support healing, growth, and change in your life. You and I will uncover a happier and more peaceful you.
(773) 328-8760 View (773) 328-8760
Photo of Jeff Lewis, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Jeff Lewis
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
I have a unique and creative way of utilizing different therapeutic tools to match my client’s needs and individual issues. My focus is to create a trusting and safe environment to enable my clients to explore their deepest feelings and thoughts. I rely on an empathetic and motivational approach, as well as on the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I work with adults and older adolescents, to resolve past traumas and issues that keep them from moving forward in their lives and accomplishing their future desires and goals.
I have a unique and creative way of utilizing different therapeutic tools to match my client’s needs and individual issues. My focus is to create a trusting and safe environment to enable my clients to explore their deepest feelings and thoughts. I rely on an empathetic and motivational approach, as well as on the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Person-Centered Therapy. As a Certified EMDR Therapist, I work with adults and older adolescents, to resolve past traumas and issues that keep them from moving forward in their lives and accomplishing their future desires and goals.
(224) 407-3399 View (224) 407-3399
Photo of Mandsukh (Sukhi) Sandhu, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mandsukh (Sukhi) Sandhu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
I am aware a single approach is not right for every individual, so I have been trained in a range of modalities including Trauma-focused CBT, Play therapy, EMDR, and parent coaching.
I help my clients including adults, adolescents, and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole, and safe
I am aware a single approach is not right for every individual, so I have been trained in a range of modalities including Trauma-focused CBT, Play therapy, EMDR, and parent coaching.
I help my clients including adults, adolescents, and families, to find healthy perceptions of themselves and strengthen their relationships so they can know themselves as peaceful, complete, whole, and safe
(708) 304-1759 View (708) 304-1759
Photo of Crystal Clair - CFC Therapy Group, MA, LCPC, Counselor
CFC Therapy Group
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
Accepting new clients in-person or virtual. Our approach is goal-oriented at all levels and we truly believe everyone deserves to be free from the things holding them back. At CFC you will find a team of therapists who truly care. We take our time to get to know our clients and create goals that we can support you with. Whether it is you and your partner seeking intimacy or you are looking for relief from anxiety that doesn't seem to ever go away; we are here to help. Our motto is to walk beside our clients and share in this journey. We have 3 EMDR trained therapists, 4 couples counselors, a somatic pain specialist, and 3 interns.
Accepting new clients in-person or virtual. Our approach is goal-oriented at all levels and we truly believe everyone deserves to be free from the things holding them back. At CFC you will find a team of therapists who truly care. We take our time to get to know our clients and create goals that we can support you with. Whether it is you and your partner seeking intimacy or you are looking for relief from anxiety that doesn't seem to ever go away; we are here to help. Our motto is to walk beside our clients and share in this journey. We have 3 EMDR trained therapists, 4 couples counselors, a somatic pain specialist, and 3 interns.
(872) 713-5402 View (872) 713-5402
Photo of Jennifer Diamond - Jennifer Diamond PhD, PLLC, PhD, Psychologist
Jennifer Diamond PhD, PLLC
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
In addition to using talk therapy, I'm a certified EMDR therapist.
My therapeutic focus includes transitions in late adolescence and adulthood, single incident and relational trauma, navigating divorce and post-divorce relationships, and the anxiety and distress that accompany these experiences. I also help mothers and fathers navigate the difficult job of raising children, from infancy through young adulthood, in all types of family configurations. Together, with compassion, we can understand the origins of your distress, what keeps it present in your life, and what changes need to be made to let it go.
In addition to using talk therapy, I'm a certified EMDR therapist.
My therapeutic focus includes transitions in late adolescence and adulthood, single incident and relational trauma, navigating divorce and post-divorce relationships, and the anxiety and distress that accompany these experiences. I also help mothers and fathers navigate the difficult job of raising children, from infancy through young adulthood, in all types of family configurations. Together, with compassion, we can understand the origins of your distress, what keeps it present in your life, and what changes need to be made to let it go.
(312) 516-4320 View (312) 516-4320
Photo of Rebecca Welles, LCPC, CRC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Welles
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, CRC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
Rebecca is a graduate of Adler University Chicago. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, she is also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Rebecca views the therapeutic process as a holistic experience and is constantly inspired by the courage of the clients she works with. Rebecca has extensive experience working as a Personal Trainer with a specialization in disability, illness, disease and health related issues. Therefore, she strongly believes in the mind-body connection and that change is possible in any situation. Rebecca is also working towards her certification in EMDR and Equine Therapy.
Rebecca is a graduate of Adler University Chicago. In addition to being a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, she is also a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor. Rebecca views the therapeutic process as a holistic experience and is constantly inspired by the courage of the clients she works with. Rebecca has extensive experience working as a Personal Trainer with a specialization in disability, illness, disease and health related issues. Therefore, she strongly believes in the mind-body connection and that change is possible in any situation. Rebecca is also working towards her certification in EMDR and Equine Therapy.
(708) 578-5127 View (708) 578-5127
Photo of Krystal Roberts - Ujima Living , LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Ujima Living
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
We also offer EMDR as a treatment modality to further encourage healing of the brain/mind.
Our Clients may be facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. What they're looking for is a safe, non-judgmental environment to openly express their thoughts and emotions. We work with clients who are eager to collaborate on setting meaningful and attainable goals. Whether it's improving coping skills, fostering resilience, or enhancing interpersonal relationships, they're committed to the therapeutic journey towards a more fulfilling life.
We also offer EMDR as a treatment modality to further encourage healing of the brain/mind.
Our Clients may be facing challenges such as anxiety, depression, or relationship issues. What they're looking for is a safe, non-judgmental environment to openly express their thoughts and emotions. We work with clients who are eager to collaborate on setting meaningful and attainable goals. Whether it's improving coping skills, fostering resilience, or enhancing interpersonal relationships, they're committed to the therapeutic journey towards a more fulfilling life.
(414) 261-2407 View (414) 261-2407
Photo of Christine Vacin, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Christine Vacin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
For over 15 years of providing therapy, Christine enjoys helping individuals recover from issues concerning self-esteem, anxiety, addiction, trauma, codependency, adjustments to motherhood, life transitions, self-identity, and relationship dynamics. She also enjoys teaching clients successful tools to help conquer difficult life challenges and gain a sense of empowerment. Additionally, she is fully trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy, which helps to process trauma and unresolved emotions.
For over 15 years of providing therapy, Christine enjoys helping individuals recover from issues concerning self-esteem, anxiety, addiction, trauma, codependency, adjustments to motherhood, life transitions, self-identity, and relationship dynamics. She also enjoys teaching clients successful tools to help conquer difficult life challenges and gain a sense of empowerment. Additionally, she is fully trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( EMDR) therapy, which helps to process trauma and unresolved emotions.
(702) 500-1252 View (702) 500-1252
Photo of Kate Kelley-Schneider, LCPC, Counselor
Kate Kelley-Schneider
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
I am trained in EMDR, a therapy which has proven helpful for people suffering from traumas.
My approach to therapy is both practical and positive. I work primarily with adults who are looking to make changes in their lives and are unsure of where to begin. I enjoy the process of connecting with my clients, who often experience anxiety/depression, and developing a relationship that supports movement and acceptance. Specializing in addiction and trauma work I incorporate evidence-based strategies to facilitate healing. I have a mind and body approach that I believe promotes patience and encourages understanding to all aspects of a persons life.
I am trained in EMDR, a therapy which has proven helpful for people suffering from traumas.
My approach to therapy is both practical and positive. I work primarily with adults who are looking to make changes in their lives and are unsure of where to begin. I enjoy the process of connecting with my clients, who often experience anxiety/depression, and developing a relationship that supports movement and acceptance. Specializing in addiction and trauma work I incorporate evidence-based strategies to facilitate healing. I have a mind and body approach that I believe promotes patience and encourages understanding to all aspects of a persons life.
(847) 416-2867 View (847) 416-2867
Photo of Stacy Ellis, PhD, Psychologist
Stacy Ellis
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
I can use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to help clients release the emotional hold of past hurtful experiences.
I believe therapy can help individuals overcome life's challenges and foster personal growth. With extensive experience counseling a diverse clientele, I utilize an integrative and collaborative approach to tailor treatment to the unique needs and goals of each client. My aim is to empower clients, facilitate healing, encourage self-acceptance, and promote healthy relationships. Within the therapeutic relationship, I prioritize confidentiality and strive to provide a nonjudgmental and supportive environment.
I can use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) to help clients release the emotional hold of past hurtful experiences.
I believe therapy can help individuals overcome life's challenges and foster personal growth. With extensive experience counseling a diverse clientele, I utilize an integrative and collaborative approach to tailor treatment to the unique needs and goals of each client. My aim is to empower clients, facilitate healing, encourage self-acceptance, and promote healthy relationships. Within the therapeutic relationship, I prioritize confidentiality and strive to provide a nonjudgmental and supportive environment.
(424) 434-4729 View (424) 434-4729
Photo of Missy Williams, MA, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Missy Williams
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
Missy is EMDR certified, and uses a trauma focused lens in treatment planning.
Missy is passionate about psychotherapy with children, adolescents, families, as well as adults. In working with adults, she helps them create meaning in their lives. With an eye toward life transitions and contextual factors, Missy empowers clients to face their current challenges with true agency. In working with children, Missy provides evidenced based skills in addressing mood, adjustment, anxiety disorders, and learning disabilities. She focuses on a collaborative process in providing clients with prevention and intervention towards their present stressors.
Missy is EMDR certified, and uses a trauma focused lens in treatment planning.
Missy is passionate about psychotherapy with children, adolescents, families, as well as adults. In working with adults, she helps them create meaning in their lives. With an eye toward life transitions and contextual factors, Missy empowers clients to face their current challenges with true agency. In working with children, Missy provides evidenced based skills in addressing mood, adjustment, anxiety disorders, and learning disabilities. She focuses on a collaborative process in providing clients with prevention and intervention towards their present stressors.
(872) 204-1198 View (872) 204-1198
Tracy Magers Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CDWF, EMDR
Verified Verified
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with additional training for specialties in trauma ( EMDR and ART trained) substance use issues for individuals/family and shame resilience( Brené Brown).
It's not easy to make a decision about needing some clarity and support. No one received a playbook on life. Often what got us here will not get us there. You may be struggling with perfectionism, work, family, relationships or a general sense of malaise or anxiety/depression. You may have tried to cope in ways that now are causing problems. Even highly accountable professionals face these issues. Education and success offer no immunity to the everyday issues of life. Most of us look good on the outside.
I'm a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with additional training for specialties in trauma ( EMDR and ART trained) substance use issues for individuals/family and shame resilience( Brené Brown).
It's not easy to make a decision about needing some clarity and support. No one received a playbook on life. Often what got us here will not get us there. You may be struggling with perfectionism, work, family, relationships or a general sense of malaise or anxiety/depression. You may have tried to cope in ways that now are causing problems. Even highly accountable professionals face these issues. Education and success offer no immunity to the everyday issues of life. Most of us look good on the outside.
(312) 313-5381 View (312) 313-5381
Photo of Delaney Savoie, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Delaney Savoie
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing and working toward EMDR certification.
Delaney Savoie is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She earned her B.A. in Human Development Psychology at DePaul University and her M.A. in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Addictions Counseling at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She has experience working with adults and adolescents from diverse backgrounds who struggle with anxiety, depression, history of trauma, sexual identity, gender identity, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationship issues, codependency, and mild to severe addictions.
She is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing and working toward EMDR certification.
Delaney Savoie is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. She earned her B.A. in Human Development Psychology at DePaul University and her M.A. in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Addictions Counseling at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She has experience working with adults and adolescents from diverse backgrounds who struggle with anxiety, depression, history of trauma, sexual identity, gender identity, mood disorders, personality disorders, relationship issues, codependency, and mild to severe addictions.
(312) 313-4628 View (312) 313-4628
Photo of Giulia Casani - Giulia Casani, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Giulia Casani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
My international background allows me to connect with individuals struggling with cross-culturaI also offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Are you struggling in one or more aspects of your relationship with your significant other? Is your sex life not as satisfying as you hoped it to be? Are you facing trauma, loss, disruptive transitions, divorce or cultural adjustments? We will work together to define your goals and maximize your strengths in a process that is collaborative and driven by you. It is my belief that the therapeutic growth occurs in between sessions; therefore, you will be provided with the proper tools to develop insights about non-productive behaviors and patterns of thinking, and improve your daily life.
My international background allows me to connect with individuals struggling with cross-culturaI also offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
Are you struggling in one or more aspects of your relationship with your significant other? Is your sex life not as satisfying as you hoped it to be? Are you facing trauma, loss, disruptive transitions, divorce or cultural adjustments? We will work together to define your goals and maximize your strengths in a process that is collaborative and driven by you. It is my belief that the therapeutic growth occurs in between sessions; therefore, you will be provided with the proper tools to develop insights about non-productive behaviors and patterns of thinking, and improve your daily life.
(872) 204-2384 View (872) 204-2384
Photo of Thomas L Schemper, PhD, Psychologist
Thomas L Schemper
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614
I am trained in EMDR and have developed a variant of this powerful trauma resolution tool to help my coaching clients optimize their performance in business, sports, creative endeavors and personal growth.
Life unfolds presenting its challenges and we are often required to adapt and change. I have over 25 years of experience helping my clients at these important times. I actively participate in creating an environment that is safe and promotes healing and growth. I do this by striving to be attentive, supportive, challenging and compassionate while embracing the gifts,losses,struggles, irony and humor in life's situations. I help my clients cultivate self care by being good observers of themselves and their surroundings, asking hard questions, and showing compassion as they try different approaches and stay open to new possibilities.
I am trained in EMDR and have developed a variant of this powerful trauma resolution tool to help my coaching clients optimize their performance in business, sports, creative endeavors and personal growth.
Life unfolds presenting its challenges and we are often required to adapt and change. I have over 25 years of experience helping my clients at these important times. I actively participate in creating an environment that is safe and promotes healing and growth. I do this by striving to be attentive, supportive, challenging and compassionate while embracing the gifts,losses,struggles, irony and humor in life's situations. I help my clients cultivate self care by being good observers of themselves and their surroundings, asking hard questions, and showing compassion as they try different approaches and stay open to new possibilities.
(630) 426-3843 View (630) 426-3843
Photo of Matthew Joseph Lieser, MA, LCPC
Matthew Joseph Lieser
MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, 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 Dr. Louis Formica, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Louis Formica
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL 60614  (Online Only)
I am also trained to deliver EMDR therapy to treat trauma and other adverse experiences.
Counseling can strengthen your ability to recognize and make choices in your life that align with the person you want to be. I can help you cope with difficult emotions and develop a strong sense of self-compassion and acceptance. I am most passionate about addressing concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual health. A significant portion of my career has been focused on serving LGBTQ+ people and communities, and I pay close attention to cultural factors and the ways in which they impact a person's vantage point in this world.
I am also trained to deliver EMDR therapy to treat trauma and other adverse experiences.
Counseling can strengthen your ability to recognize and make choices in your life that align with the person you want to be. I can help you cope with difficult emotions and develop a strong sense of self-compassion and acceptance. I am most passionate about addressing concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual health. A significant portion of my career has been focused on serving LGBTQ+ people and communities, and I pay close attention to cultural factors and the ways in which they impact a person's vantage point in this world.
(312) 957-8322 View (312) 957-8322
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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.