EMDR Therapists in Huntley, IL

Photo of Betsy Gilpin, LCPC, CCTP-II
Betsy Gilpin
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
I utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and EMDR.
Since the relationship you have with your therapist is so vital to your success in therapy, I take time to get to know you, understand your struggles and validate your experiences. I tailor my sessions to meet each client's individual needs, and I work from a sex positive, neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ affirming framework. You don't have to struggle alone, healing from past trauma, limiting beliefs, and negative patterns is possible. I can help you get off the negative cycle, so you can feel less stressed, more confident and have a deeper connection with yourself and others.
I utilize Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and EMDR.
Since the relationship you have with your therapist is so vital to your success in therapy, I take time to get to know you, understand your struggles and validate your experiences. I tailor my sessions to meet each client's individual needs, and I work from a sex positive, neurodiversity and LGBTQIA+ affirming framework. You don't have to struggle alone, healing from past trauma, limiting beliefs, and negative patterns is possible. I can help you get off the negative cycle, so you can feel less stressed, more confident and have a deeper connection with yourself and others.
(224) 347-7110 View (224) 347-7110
Photo of Melissa Carlson - Melissa Carlson Counseling, MAT, MSEd, LCPC, Counselor
Melissa Carlson Counseling
Counselor, MAT, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Waitlist for new clients
Along with traditional talk therapy I am trained in EMDR and practice both in office and through teletherapy.
My approach to counseling is a balance of a straightforward communication with the belief that clients are the experts of themselves. My goal is to help clients to discover their own inner wisdom and support a plan to move out of their stuckness. I believe that our early childhood experiences along with traumas we have experienced play a leading part in the stories we tell ourselves about who we are today.
Along with traditional talk therapy I am trained in EMDR and practice both in office and through teletherapy.
My approach to counseling is a balance of a straightforward communication with the belief that clients are the experts of themselves. My goal is to help clients to discover their own inner wisdom and support a plan to move out of their stuckness. I believe that our early childhood experiences along with traumas we have experienced play a leading part in the stories we tell ourselves about who we are today.
(815) 516-5001 View (815) 516-5001
Photo of Janice Rachelle Barmann, LCPC, ATR-BC, Counselor
Janice Rachelle Barmann
Counselor, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Huntley, IL 60142
EMDR is an evidence based approach to heal the symptoms of trauma, for recent single incident events, as well as for chronic trauma suffered in childhood.
My private practice, Healing Arts Therapy and Counseling, is dedicated to providing caring and compassionate counseling services to help individuals achieve emotional and mental well-being, heal from challenging life experiences, and begin a path of personal growth and fulfillment. I can help those individuals who want to connect more deeply with their authentic self, heal their past, and move into a new future with freedom, joy, and hope.
EMDR is an evidence based approach to heal the symptoms of trauma, for recent single incident events, as well as for chronic trauma suffered in childhood.
My private practice, Healing Arts Therapy and Counseling, is dedicated to providing caring and compassionate counseling services to help individuals achieve emotional and mental well-being, heal from challenging life experiences, and begin a path of personal growth and fulfillment. I can help those individuals who want to connect more deeply with their authentic self, heal their past, and move into a new future with freedom, joy, and hope.
(815) 486-0280 View (815) 486-0280
Photo of Adam Marchiorello, MSEd, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Adam Marchiorello
Licensed Professional Counselor, MSEd, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
These include IFS (internal family systems), narrative therapy, DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), and EMDR.
My current philosophy is that if PTSD is defined as past trauma experienced in the present via different symptoms, then every clinical presentation is one of trauma. Trauma focused therapists, such as myself, look at every client as unique and that they do not (and never have) fit into the boxes that other therapists have wanted them to fit into. Trauma therapists look at your past to better understand where your symptoms come from and how to resolve them. You will learn what you avoid and how you avoid it. Our hope is that you will work with us so that you can develop a more courageous attitude and face your unfinished business.
These include IFS (internal family systems), narrative therapy, DBT (dialectical behavior therapy), and EMDR.
My current philosophy is that if PTSD is defined as past trauma experienced in the present via different symptoms, then every clinical presentation is one of trauma. Trauma focused therapists, such as myself, look at every client as unique and that they do not (and never have) fit into the boxes that other therapists have wanted them to fit into. Trauma therapists look at your past to better understand where your symptoms come from and how to resolve them. You will learn what you avoid and how you avoid it. Our hope is that you will work with us so that you can develop a more courageous attitude and face your unfinished business.
(779) 209-0383 View (779) 209-0383
Photo of Iwona S Florianowicz - Compassionate Healing Psychotherapy & Consult. LLC, LCPC, LPC, CCTP-II
Compassionate Healing Psychotherapy & Consult. LLC
LCPC, LPC, CCTP-II
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142  (Online Only)
Accepting New Clients in Arizona and Illinois! Have you experienced trauma or highly distressing circumstances, or toxic relationships, and now you are noticing effects, affecting your daily life including mental, physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being? I'm here to help - to listen to your needs and help you to set healthy goals for your healing process. I'll help you to process and heal from your past experiences, teach you new coping skills to deal with distress, and develop a healthy sense of self-worth, as well as build resiliency for the future, so you can achieve ultimate personal and relational growth.
Accepting New Clients in Arizona and Illinois! Have you experienced trauma or highly distressing circumstances, or toxic relationships, and now you are noticing effects, affecting your daily life including mental, physical, social, emotional, or spiritual well-being? I'm here to help - to listen to your needs and help you to set healthy goals for your healing process. I'll help you to process and heal from your past experiences, teach you new coping skills to deal with distress, and develop a healthy sense of self-worth, as well as build resiliency for the future, so you can achieve ultimate personal and relational growth.
(630) 349-2956 View (630) 349-2956
Photo of Phet Coggin, LCPC, Counselor
Phet Coggin
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
I specialize in providing individual counseling for adults, adolescents and their families. My approach is client-centered and individualized to meet my client's current needs. My goal is to assist clients to reach their potential well being through education, teaching, and modeling skills, while assisting to identify barriers that prevent change. My therapy approach is guided by dialectical-behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, grief, and gender identity support.
I specialize in providing individual counseling for adults, adolescents and their families. My approach is client-centered and individualized to meet my client's current needs. My goal is to assist clients to reach their potential well being through education, teaching, and modeling skills, while assisting to identify barriers that prevent change. My therapy approach is guided by dialectical-behavioral and cognitive behavioral therapy. I specialize in trauma, grief, and gender identity support.
(224) 699-0196 View (224) 699-0196
Photo of Simona Stanila, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Simona Stanila
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Huntley, IL 60142
Education and Training: Mrs. Simona Stanila received her Bachelor's Degree in Education, Literature and Languages from the University of Bucharest, Romania and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MACL) from Argosy University, Schaumburg, Illinois. She is currently working towards her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy. D. ) at Argosy University, Chicago, Illinois. During her Practicum for her Master's Degree, Mrs. Simona Stanila worked at the Streamwood Behavioral Health Center in Illinois as a part of the Advanced Crisis Therapy (ACT) unit.
Education and Training: Mrs. Simona Stanila received her Bachelor's Degree in Education, Literature and Languages from the University of Bucharest, Romania and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MACL) from Argosy University, Schaumburg, Illinois. She is currently working towards her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy. D. ) at Argosy University, Chicago, Illinois. During her Practicum for her Master's Degree, Mrs. Simona Stanila worked at the Streamwood Behavioral Health Center in Illinois as a part of the Advanced Crisis Therapy (ACT) unit.
(224) 249-6051 View (224) 249-6051
Photo of Loan Nguyen Korolczuk, LCPC, Counselor
Loan Nguyen Korolczuk
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
I think of life as a cross-country road trip taking us on an adventure. The adventure can be exciting but also scary at times. We make choices on where we wish to go. However, the ride can be smooth or shaky and take us through dark tunnels, across bridges, rivers, and hills. I'm your assistant navigator offering support, encouragement, empowerment, but also challenging you forward towards your chosen destination(s). Together we navigate through any obstacles in order to help you achieve your goals and discover the life you want to live.
I think of life as a cross-country road trip taking us on an adventure. The adventure can be exciting but also scary at times. We make choices on where we wish to go. However, the ride can be smooth or shaky and take us through dark tunnels, across bridges, rivers, and hills. I'm your assistant navigator offering support, encouragement, empowerment, but also challenging you forward towards your chosen destination(s). Together we navigate through any obstacles in order to help you achieve your goals and discover the life you want to live.
(815) 515-4437 View (815) 515-4437
Photo of Allison Altmann - Inner Light Counseling, PLLC with Allison Altmann, MS-Ed, LCPC, NCC, Counselor
Inner Light Counseling, PLLC with Allison Altmann
Counselor, MS-Ed, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Waitlist for new clients
Hi! My name is Alli and I am so glad you are here! It is an honor to walk alongside people on their wellness journeys. Are you feeling stuck? Tired? Worried? Struggling with a relationship or navigating a new chapter in your life?
Hi! My name is Alli and I am so glad you are here! It is an honor to walk alongside people on their wellness journeys. Are you feeling stuck? Tired? Worried? Struggling with a relationship or navigating a new chapter in your life?
(224) 328-1570 View (224) 328-1570
Photo of Meghan Scully, LCSW, CADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Meghan Scully
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntley, IL 60142
Not accepting new clients
I use a combination of insight therapy, CBT, IFS, EMDR, and meditation to help with depression, anxiety, relationship patterns, trauma, chemical and process addictions.
Hello! I respect your courage and vision to seek a higher self, and I would be honored to assist you in this journey. In our individual and collective paths in life, clarity is sometimes elusive and the path foggy. It's good to join forces. My goal is to help you break free from what holds you in the pain of the past, so that you may walk freely in your own truth and light. Welcome to your next chapter!
I use a combination of insight therapy, CBT, IFS, EMDR, and meditation to help with depression, anxiety, relationship patterns, trauma, chemical and process addictions.
Hello! I respect your courage and vision to seek a higher self, and I would be honored to assist you in this journey. In our individual and collective paths in life, clarity is sometimes elusive and the path foggy. It's good to join forces. My goal is to help you break free from what holds you in the pain of the past, so that you may walk freely in your own truth and light. Welcome to your next chapter!
(847) 796-6530 View (847) 796-6530

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Janette Williams, PsyD, Psychologist
Janette Williams
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60012  (Online Only)
I have a minor in Spirituality and have been trained in various mind/body techniques such as biofeedback and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois. I received my doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I have worked with clients of all ages and have extensive experience treating those with mood disorders and those who have experienced trauma. My approach is fundamentally humanistic. Through my own life experience and work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has proven to bring about great resolve. I believe the therapeutic relationship to be of the utmost importance. A "Good fit" is ideal and should be sought as well as treatment tailored to an individuals needs.
I have a minor in Spirituality and have been trained in various mind/body techniques such as biofeedback and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am a licensed clinical psychologist in the state of Illinois. I received my doctoral degree in clinical psychology at Illinois School of Professional Psychology in Chicago. I have worked with clients of all ages and have extensive experience treating those with mood disorders and those who have experienced trauma. My approach is fundamentally humanistic. Through my own life experience and work, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy has proven to bring about great resolve. I believe the therapeutic relationship to be of the utmost importance. A "Good fit" is ideal and should be sought as well as treatment tailored to an individuals needs.
(708) 395-9658 View (708) 395-9658
Photo of Alexis Bray, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alexis Bray
Licensed Professional Counselor
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I take an integrated approach to counseling but am based in a logotherapeutic and Existential Psychotherapeutic theoretical orientation. I utilize these approaches while incorporating concepts from therapies such as Somatic and Emotion Focused therapy. Additionally, I am currently practicing EMDR. If you are looking for a more philosophical approach that focuses on the existential givens and our place in the world while allowing room for our emotions and attachments, then I hope to work with you.
I take an integrated approach to counseling but am based in a logotherapeutic and Existential Psychotherapeutic theoretical orientation. I utilize these approaches while incorporating concepts from therapies such as Somatic and Emotion Focused therapy. Additionally, I am currently practicing EMDR. If you are looking for a more philosophical approach that focuses on the existential givens and our place in the world while allowing room for our emotions and attachments, then I hope to work with you.
(815) 855-2041 View (815) 855-2041
Photo of Rebecca Esser, MA, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rebecca Esser
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156  (Online Only)
Everyone struggles. from time to time. I am committed to helping my clients harness their power to foster healing and restore balance to those who have been impacted by, days of feeling defeated and overwhelmed, mental health, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, addiction and other life stressors. I provide a collaborative, safe, non-judgmental, empathetic environment in which you are free to discover your true authentic self while developing meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles. I help clients gain insight about how their past impacts the present and am EMDR trained.
Everyone struggles. from time to time. I am committed to helping my clients harness their power to foster healing and restore balance to those who have been impacted by, days of feeling defeated and overwhelmed, mental health, trauma, relationship issues, grief and loss, addiction and other life stressors. I provide a collaborative, safe, non-judgmental, empathetic environment in which you are free to discover your true authentic self while developing meaningful and lasting solutions to emotional, behavioral and relational struggles. I help clients gain insight about how their past impacts the present and am EMDR trained.
(779) 228-4911 View (779) 228-4911
Photo of Stacey Price, LCSW, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Stacey Price
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
Lake In The Hills, IL 60156
We can do this through cognitive behavioral therapy, specifically ACT, narrative therapy, existential therapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems.
I am a Therapist and have been providing mental health services for 4 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, Couples, Groups, Families and I address ADHD, Anger management, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder. I aspire to support, educate, advocate, and provide interventions and knowledge to those who request my services.
We can do this through cognitive behavioral therapy, specifically ACT, narrative therapy, existential therapy, EMDR, and Internal Family Systems.
I am a Therapist and have been providing mental health services for 4 years in outpatient and in home settings. I see Individuals, Couples, Groups, Families and I address ADHD, Anger management, Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder. I aspire to support, educate, advocate, and provide interventions and knowledge to those who request my services.
(847) 380-3119 View (847) 380-3119
Photo of Stephanie Hawotte, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Stephanie Hawotte
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Algonquin, IL 60102
I also have advanced training in Trauma focused care and EMDR, and am always working to develop additional skills to help my clients move forward in reaching their goals.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I work with adults and children with a variety of issues in conjunction with or separately from family therapy/consultation. My focus is on clarifying and addressing the issues that bring each individual into counseling and creating a partnership and treatment plan that will support change and growth. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is crucial to creating the environment needed for change. Social and emotional difficulties rarely emerge in isolation, but rather from a variety of experiences and interactions.
I also have advanced training in Trauma focused care and EMDR, and am always working to develop additional skills to help my clients move forward in reaching their goals.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, I work with adults and children with a variety of issues in conjunction with or separately from family therapy/consultation. My focus is on clarifying and addressing the issues that bring each individual into counseling and creating a partnership and treatment plan that will support change and growth. I believe that the relationship between client and therapist is crucial to creating the environment needed for change. Social and emotional difficulties rarely emerge in isolation, but rather from a variety of experiences and interactions.
(815) 315-9010 View (815) 315-9010
Photo of Jennifer Froemel - Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, LPC, MA, Counselor
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
We am 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 am 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 Jessica Woloshyn, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Jessica Woloshyn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Jessica Connell, LPC, received her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grace College in 2020. She has expertise in trauma focused therapy and has completed post graduate work and training in EMDR trauma informed therapy. Jessica has experience working in private practice and in mental health/addiction residential treatment settings. Jessica is a graduate of Grace College with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has additional specialized training in EMDR therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
Jessica Connell, LPC, received her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grace College in 2020. She has expertise in trauma focused therapy and has completed post graduate work and training in EMDR trauma informed therapy. Jessica has experience working in private practice and in mental health/addiction residential treatment settings. Jessica is a graduate of Grace College with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has additional specialized training in EMDR therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
(847) 558-1862 x119 View (847) 558-1862 x119
Photo of Mercedes Conus, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Mercedes Conus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
(847) 469-9869 x101 View (847) 469-9869 x101
Photo of Michelle Krc, MA, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Krc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
I also am certified in EMDR, which is a great tool to use if talking feels daunting.
Each person has their own unique story, and I genuinely want to hear about yours. It is our imperfections that make us beautiful, and I want to help give you the tools to see that in yourself. I specialize in working with complex trauma, which can present in many ways. Many of my clients struggle with big emotions and reactions, relationship issues, codependency, self-harming, shame, and low self-esteem. If you are feeling lost, hurt, scared, or hopeless, then I am so glad you are reaching out for help. I truly believe we are all capable and worthy of growth, healing, and compassion.
I also am certified in EMDR, which is a great tool to use if talking feels daunting.
Each person has their own unique story, and I genuinely want to hear about yours. It is our imperfections that make us beautiful, and I want to help give you the tools to see that in yourself. I specialize in working with complex trauma, which can present in many ways. Many of my clients struggle with big emotions and reactions, relationship issues, codependency, self-harming, shame, and low self-esteem. If you are feeling lost, hurt, scared, or hopeless, then I am so glad you are reaching out for help. I truly believe we are all capable and worthy of growth, healing, and compassion.
(847) 242-2369 View (847) 242-2369
Deborah Horcher-Shramovich
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
As a trauma informed clinician, I am dedicated to the goal of promoting an integrative approach to improve insight and internal change using therapies that compliment my training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and Dissociative Disorders.
Psychological and emotional upset do not have to dominate your life. Learn to move through your concerns and issues to improve fulfillment in your life. From common every day problems to more serious problems hope is a phone call away. Let's work together to get you back in the driver's seat of life.
As a trauma informed clinician, I am dedicated to the goal of promoting an integrative approach to improve insight and internal change using therapies that compliment my training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing) and Dissociative Disorders.
Psychological and emotional upset do not have to dominate your life. Learn to move through your concerns and issues to improve fulfillment in your life. From common every day problems to more serious problems hope is a phone call away. Let's work together to get you back in the driver's seat of life.
(630) 414-5601 View (630) 414-5601
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.