EMDR Therapists in Naperville, IL

Photo of Josie Miller, MA, LPC, Counselor
Josie Miller
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60540
In addition to my expertise in eating disorders and EMDR therapy, I have extensive experience working with couples seeking to strengthen their relationships and resolve marital issues.
With over two decades of experience supporting adults, teens, couples, and families, I am deeply committed to walking alongside my clients on their journey to healing. My passion lies in providing specialized care for eating disorders, honed through years of working in diverse inpatient and outpatient settings. Additionally, I am enthusiastic about utilizing EMDR as a powerful tool to facilitate profound healing experiences. EMDR is often quite effective in accessing and addressing deep-seated issues and "stuck points," often leading to a sense of relief and empowerment for my clients.
In addition to my expertise in eating disorders and EMDR therapy, I have extensive experience working with couples seeking to strengthen their relationships and resolve marital issues.
With over two decades of experience supporting adults, teens, couples, and families, I am deeply committed to walking alongside my clients on their journey to healing. My passion lies in providing specialized care for eating disorders, honed through years of working in diverse inpatient and outpatient settings. Additionally, I am enthusiastic about utilizing EMDR as a powerful tool to facilitate profound healing experiences. EMDR is often quite effective in accessing and addressing deep-seated issues and "stuck points," often leading to a sense of relief and empowerment for my clients.
(331) 259-8758 View (331) 259-8758
Photo of Heather Beaugard, LCSW , Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Heather Beaugard
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
One of the methods I specialize in is EMDR which is helpful to resolve traumas of many types.
I know how hard it is to want things in your life to change but not know how to change them. You know what your goals are and how you’d like to feel but there doesn’t seem to be a path to get there. Therapy is a great place to share your goals so together we can create a path. I believe many problems start in the past and we can see that best in the present. Frequently we will work together on what’s going on now, in the present, and then work on understanding and resolving the past if you want to explore it.
One of the methods I specialize in is EMDR which is helpful to resolve traumas of many types.
I know how hard it is to want things in your life to change but not know how to change them. You know what your goals are and how you’d like to feel but there doesn’t seem to be a path to get there. Therapy is a great place to share your goals so together we can create a path. I believe many problems start in the past and we can see that best in the present. Frequently we will work together on what’s going on now, in the present, and then work on understanding and resolving the past if you want to explore it.
(331) 258-1804 View (331) 258-1804
Photo of Sandra Lukashevich, LCPC, MS, NCC, Counselor
Sandra Lukashevich
Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
Sandra Lukashevich is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. Sandy is licensed in both Illinois and Indiana. She works with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, couples, and families to provide counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, domestic violence, and other life challenges. Her experience also spans the life course to include counselling for self-harm, bullying, PTSD, dementia, and gender and sexual identity issues. Sandra is Gamer Affirmative and welcomes geek culture clients. She is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR).
Sandra Lukashevich is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. Sandy is licensed in both Illinois and Indiana. She works with children, adolescents, adults, seniors, couples, and families to provide counseling for anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, domestic violence, and other life challenges. Her experience also spans the life course to include counselling for self-harm, bullying, PTSD, dementia, and gender and sexual identity issues. Sandra is Gamer Affirmative and welcomes geek culture clients. She is also trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR).
(630) 848-9472 View (630) 848-9472
Photo of LaTreasa D Blackmon, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
LaTreasa D Blackmon
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I embrace William James’ insight: ‘The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.’ As a dedicated mental health partner, my role is to walk alongside clients, guiding them in making choices that lead to emotional well-being. Many individuals grapple with thoughts that contribute to distressing emotions and problematic behaviors. I focus on helping individuals transform their relationship with these thoughts to cultivate a more fulfilling life. I use treatment methods, including ACT, DBT, and EMDR, to accomplish this.
I embrace William James’ insight: ‘The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another.’ As a dedicated mental health partner, my role is to walk alongside clients, guiding them in making choices that lead to emotional well-being. Many individuals grapple with thoughts that contribute to distressing emotions and problematic behaviors. I focus on helping individuals transform their relationship with these thoughts to cultivate a more fulfilling life. I use treatment methods, including ACT, DBT, and EMDR, to accomplish this.
(331) 258-3866 View (331) 258-3866
Photo of Kelly Eisner, LCPC, LMHC, CDWF, Counselor
Kelly Eisner
Counselor, LCPC, LMHC, CDWF
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60565
Waitlist for new clients
My work blends my background in EMDR, Clinical Meditation and Imagery, The Daring Way (Shame/Vulnerability), Compassion Focused Therapy, DBT, and Havening amongst other certifications and training.
I specialize in the treatment of complex trauma, anxiety, and issues of self worth. If you desire more nervous system regulation, confidence in your connections with others, and ability to access joy and peace, we may work well together. My clients often describe working hard to make others happy, frequent anxiety and worrying that they're not enough or not doing enough. If you get lost in thoughts of comparison and are often searching for answers outside of yourself, my way of working will offer you tools to develop more self love, inner peace and a trust in your inner wisdom.
My work blends my background in EMDR, Clinical Meditation and Imagery, The Daring Way (Shame/Vulnerability), Compassion Focused Therapy, DBT, and Havening amongst other certifications and training.
I specialize in the treatment of complex trauma, anxiety, and issues of self worth. If you desire more nervous system regulation, confidence in your connections with others, and ability to access joy and peace, we may work well together. My clients often describe working hard to make others happy, frequent anxiety and worrying that they're not enough or not doing enough. If you get lost in thoughts of comparison and are often searching for answers outside of yourself, my way of working will offer you tools to develop more self love, inner peace and a trust in your inner wisdom.
(630) 593-7893 View (630) 593-7893
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
Naperville, IL 60540
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 Melissa O'Neill, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa O'Neill
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
I am trained in EMDR and use a variety of other evidenced-based modalities to support people in living a meaningful life in line with their personal values.
My practice is focused on supporting others making important changes in their lives. Most people feel stuck at different points in their life and those times can be valuable opportunities for change. I believe in meeting clients where they are and empowering them to make the changes they wish to see in their lives
I am trained in EMDR and use a variety of other evidenced-based modalities to support people in living a meaningful life in line with their personal values.
My practice is focused on supporting others making important changes in their lives. Most people feel stuck at different points in their life and those times can be valuable opportunities for change. I believe in meeting clients where they are and empowering them to make the changes they wish to see in their lives
(630) 333-4084 View (630) 333-4084
Photo of Moni Kannenwischer, MA, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Moni Kannenwischer
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564  (Online Only)
We collaborate, set goals, process, make progress and utilize EMDR as needed.
Are you feeling stuck, joylessly rotating through old patterns of thinking and doing, anxious and somewhat lost? I’ll help you awaken to your best self by managing anxiety, stress, and depression more effectively, enjoying more connected relationships and loving yourself more deeply! Don’t waste your “one wild and precious life” (Mary Oliver)! Together, we can do hard things and can find practical solutions that suit you and your needs best!
We collaborate, set goals, process, make progress and utilize EMDR as needed.
Are you feeling stuck, joylessly rotating through old patterns of thinking and doing, anxious and somewhat lost? I’ll help you awaken to your best self by managing anxiety, stress, and depression more effectively, enjoying more connected relationships and loving yourself more deeply! Don’t waste your “one wild and precious life” (Mary Oliver)! Together, we can do hard things and can find practical solutions that suit you and your needs best!
(630) 360-8257 View (630) 360-8257
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
Naperville, IL 60564
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 Pamela Dockstader Ortiz, PsyD, Psypact, IL/WI, License, Psychologist
Pamela Dockstader Ortiz
Psychologist, PsyD, Psypact, IL/WI, License
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540  (Online Only)
EMDR effectively lessens symptoms felt by trauma survivors.
"Making that first appointment, and asking for help, truly takes courage and is the first step to new beginnings." I believe that providing a safe and supportive space, combined with therapeutic collaboration, facilitates change. I utilize an eclectic approach and believe in using evidence based treatments, tailored for each unique individual, their specific needs, and desired goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are ready and motivated toward change, however, just aren't sure how to get there. Once given the proper tools and skills, options appear and the ability to choose a better path presents itself.
EMDR effectively lessens symptoms felt by trauma survivors.
"Making that first appointment, and asking for help, truly takes courage and is the first step to new beginnings." I believe that providing a safe and supportive space, combined with therapeutic collaboration, facilitates change. I utilize an eclectic approach and believe in using evidence based treatments, tailored for each unique individual, their specific needs, and desired goals. I enjoy working with individuals, couples, and families who are ready and motivated toward change, however, just aren't sure how to get there. Once given the proper tools and skills, options appear and the ability to choose a better path presents itself.
(630) 489-6227 View (630) 489-6227
Photo of Veronica Cecil, LCSW, CGP, CCTP, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Veronica Cecil
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CGP, CCTP, EMDR
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I have training in grief counseling for children and adults, as well as trauma-informed modalities for children and adults, including: EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, sand tray therapy, and trauma-informed play therapy.
This has been such a hard season for many individuals and families navigating challenging issues with grief and loss. Most of my work has been providing support to children, adolescents, and adults during stressful experiences and transitions. My job allows me the privilege to witness the resilience and strength of individuals as they move through unexpected challenges. I believe it is important for all people to have a safe, non-judgmental, authentic space to feel validated and to help bring balance and healing to their life. I also work with therapists and medical providers who experience trauma and loss at work.
I have training in grief counseling for children and adults, as well as trauma-informed modalities for children and adults, including: EMDR, TF-CBT, DBT, sand tray therapy, and trauma-informed play therapy.
This has been such a hard season for many individuals and families navigating challenging issues with grief and loss. Most of my work has been providing support to children, adolescents, and adults during stressful experiences and transitions. My job allows me the privilege to witness the resilience and strength of individuals as they move through unexpected challenges. I believe it is important for all people to have a safe, non-judgmental, authentic space to feel validated and to help bring balance and healing to their life. I also work with therapists and medical providers who experience trauma and loss at work.
(331) 244-7379 View (331) 244-7379
Photo of Audra Johnson, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Audra Johnson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563  (Online Only)
My sessions combine a variety of formats including traditional talk therapy, EMDR reprocessing, worksheets, and interactive activities; I follow the client's lead in what they need for that session.
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.
My sessions combine a variety of formats including traditional talk therapy, EMDR reprocessing, worksheets, and interactive activities; I follow the client's lead in what they need for that session.
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 Jenna S Kiel, PsyD, Psychologist
Jenna S Kiel
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
I am also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and am licensed to practice in states participating in PSYPACT.
I often work with people who are facing a major life transition and/or who are feeling "stuck." Whether that is a career change, divorce, having a child, or a major illness (just to name a few), therapy can be incredibly helpful in finding the ground beneath your feet by figuring out what your goals are and how to get there. I also work with a lot of individuals who have survived some type of trauma, including major medical illness. I find that the big "why are we here?" questions can often be important to address after traumatic experiences.
I am also certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and am licensed to practice in states participating in PSYPACT.
I often work with people who are facing a major life transition and/or who are feeling "stuck." Whether that is a career change, divorce, having a child, or a major illness (just to name a few), therapy can be incredibly helpful in finding the ground beneath your feet by figuring out what your goals are and how to get there. I also work with a lot of individuals who have survived some type of trauma, including major medical illness. I find that the big "why are we here?" questions can often be important to address after traumatic experiences.
(630) 239-1268 View (630) 239-1268
Photo of Kelly Beyer, MA,  LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kelly Beyer
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60564
As an EMDR therapist I help clients reprocess maladaptively stored memories of disturbances and/or traumas that have created obstacles to rational processing.
My name is Kelly Beyer, LPC and EMDR Therapist. I’m passionate about facilitating a safe place for my clients to effect positive change, becoming the person they want and know they truly are inside and out. As a veteran and retired police officer, I have worked with people at various states of their lives both with similarities and/or differences from me.
As an EMDR therapist I help clients reprocess maladaptively stored memories of disturbances and/or traumas that have created obstacles to rational processing.
My name is Kelly Beyer, LPC and EMDR Therapist. I’m passionate about facilitating a safe place for my clients to effect positive change, becoming the person they want and know they truly are inside and out. As a veteran and retired police officer, I have worked with people at various states of their lives both with similarities and/or differences from me.
(855) 641-1658 View (855) 641-1658
Photo of Laura Lange, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Laura Lange
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC, CODP I, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained as well.
In a world where selecting the right therapist can feel like navigating a sea of profiles and introductions, I aim to make your decision easier. I am a therapist who brings both professionalism and compassion to the table. My love for this profession runs deep, and I understand the importance of finding a therapist who creates a comfortable and safe space for you. Together we can navigate the tough stuff and celebrate the victories that lie in between. We will embark on a voyage of self-exploration where I will provide guidance, support, and practice tools to help you navigate the intricate landscape of your thoughts and emotions.
I am EMDR trained as well.
In a world where selecting the right therapist can feel like navigating a sea of profiles and introductions, I aim to make your decision easier. I am a therapist who brings both professionalism and compassion to the table. My love for this profession runs deep, and I understand the importance of finding a therapist who creates a comfortable and safe space for you. Together we can navigate the tough stuff and celebrate the victories that lie in between. We will embark on a voyage of self-exploration where I will provide guidance, support, and practice tools to help you navigate the intricate landscape of your thoughts and emotions.
(331) 244-5211 View (331) 244-5211
Photo of Colleen Norwell, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Colleen Norwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60563
Waitlist for new clients
With a caring, supportive, strengths-based focus - and a touch of humor, Colleen uses a variety of approaches and interventions such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Harm Reduction.
Colleen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys collaborating with adolescents and adults in order to help them make changes that will allow them to find balance, and an enhanced quality of life. Having worked closely with adoptive families, families experiencing crisis and violence in the home, veterans, and individuals managing severe and persistent mental illness, Colleen is well versed in the treatment of trauma, attachment, mood, and anxiety disorders.
With a caring, supportive, strengths-based focus - and a touch of humor, Colleen uses a variety of approaches and interventions such as EMDR, CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Mindfulness and Harm Reduction.
Colleen is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who enjoys collaborating with adolescents and adults in order to help them make changes that will allow them to find balance, and an enhanced quality of life. Having worked closely with adoptive families, families experiencing crisis and violence in the home, veterans, and individuals managing severe and persistent mental illness, Colleen is well versed in the treatment of trauma, attachment, mood, and anxiety disorders.
(630) 361-0238 View (630) 361-0238
Photo of Christy Meyer, LCPC, CADC, NCC, Counselor
Christy Meyer
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, NCC
Verified Verified
Naperville, IL 60540
EMDR, tuning into mind-body approaches using mindfulness are useful tools incorporated where appropriate.
*Waitlist* Therapy can be empowering. There are times when everything in life feels daunting and chaotic. Life's challenges can be temporary or chronic and having someone "on your side" can go a long way. I get it - we have all been there at some point. My approach is honest, relatable, and knowledgable. Together we will begin at a pace suitable for you to focus on YOUR needs ...changing, improving and/or healing. As a team, we will establish goals and begin working to achieve them. We will identify your personal strengths and support you in using these strengths to overcome life's challenges. You can do this!
EMDR, tuning into mind-body approaches using mindfulness are useful tools incorporated where appropriate.
*Waitlist* Therapy can be empowering. There are times when everything in life feels daunting and chaotic. Life's challenges can be temporary or chronic and having someone "on your side" can go a long way. I get it - we have all been there at some point. My approach is honest, relatable, and knowledgable. Together we will begin at a pace suitable for you to focus on YOUR needs ...changing, improving and/or healing. As a team, we will establish goals and begin working to achieve them. We will identify your personal strengths and support you in using these strengths to overcome life's challenges. You can do this!
(630) 948-5578 View (630) 948-5578
Photo of Christine A Barker, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Christine A Barker
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
9 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) treatment.
Hi there! I am Christine :) I am a passionate-practicing LCPC in North Naperville. I have over 10 years of experience. I enjoy working with adults who have problematic relationships, childhood issues, and who feel stuck in their present life. It might be trauma, depression, anxiety, but whatever it is we can help you get "unstuck" together. I believe everyone has potential to help themselves, but sometimes we need some guidance. Many of us weren't taught how to deal with our emotions and feelings, and as a result, our adult lives suffer in ways we aren't educated to fix. I am here to help guide YOU to your BEST SELF.
I offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) treatment.
Hi there! I am Christine :) I am a passionate-practicing LCPC in North Naperville. I have over 10 years of experience. I enjoy working with adults who have problematic relationships, childhood issues, and who feel stuck in their present life. It might be trauma, depression, anxiety, but whatever it is we can help you get "unstuck" together. I believe everyone has potential to help themselves, but sometimes we need some guidance. Many of us weren't taught how to deal with our emotions and feelings, and as a result, our adult lives suffer in ways we aren't educated to fix. I am here to help guide YOU to your BEST SELF.
(630) 581-2505 View (630) 581-2505
Photo of Eric Hoyme, MPH, MA, LCPC, LCMHC, Counselor
Eric Hoyme
Counselor, MPH, MA, LCPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60563
Unlike other prominent therapies for PTSD, EMDR Therapy does not require writing or rehearsing a trauma narrative.
Welcome! My name is Eric Hoyme and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in treating trauma and PTSD. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 13 years and have worked in psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and private practice. I am an EMDR Therapy specialist. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is a gold standard treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that was developed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. It involves attending to both the past and the present in order to resolve problematic emotions.
Unlike other prominent therapies for PTSD, EMDR Therapy does not require writing or rehearsing a trauma narrative.
Welcome! My name is Eric Hoyme and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in treating trauma and PTSD. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 13 years and have worked in psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and private practice. I am an EMDR Therapy specialist. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is a gold standard treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that was developed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. It involves attending to both the past and the present in order to resolve problematic emotions.
(224) 434-3168 View (224) 434-3168
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
4 Endorsed
Naperville, IL 60564
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.