EMDR Therapists in Chicago, IL

Photo of Nicole Chirillo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nicole Chirillo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60661  (Online Only)
Nicole's therapeutic approach is rooted in an eclectic framework, which includes elements of attachment-based therapy, somatic experiencing therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EMDR. She tailors her approach to each client's unique needs, prioritizing the therapeutic alliance with an emphasis on a non-pathologizing perspective. Nicole prioritizes helping individuals navigate multi-systemic oppression while embracing their intersecting identities. She remains client-centered, but also embraces the opportunity to incorporate humor and insights when beneficial, fostering authenticity and connection.
Nicole's therapeutic approach is rooted in an eclectic framework, which includes elements of attachment-based therapy, somatic experiencing therapy, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy and EMDR. She tailors her approach to each client's unique needs, prioritizing the therapeutic alliance with an emphasis on a non-pathologizing perspective. Nicole prioritizes helping individuals navigate multi-systemic oppression while embracing their intersecting identities. She remains client-centered, but also embraces the opportunity to incorporate humor and insights when beneficial, fostering authenticity and connection.
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Photo of Kaori Wander, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kaori Wander
Counselor, LCPC, BSP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Brainspotting, somatic archaeology, art therapy, ancestral-astral dreamwork, psychedelic integration, reiki, yoga, emdr.
I am a reiki attuned art therapist, certified Brainspotting consultant, death doula, yoga teacher. Embodiment, somatic work is a practice towards interpersonal and collective liberation that enriches our compassion for our bodies' personal, generational, collective stories. Neurophysiological states inform the stories we carry. I primarily practice Generational Brainspotting to build regulation, attentively uncover memories, honor grief and joy, with the goal of expanding your capacity for holding generative conflict, clarity, and creativity. It is your birthright to remember fully, your soul origin and purpose.
Brainspotting, somatic archaeology, art therapy, ancestral-astral dreamwork, psychedelic integration, reiki, yoga, emdr.
I am a reiki attuned art therapist, certified Brainspotting consultant, death doula, yoga teacher. Embodiment, somatic work is a practice towards interpersonal and collective liberation that enriches our compassion for our bodies' personal, generational, collective stories. Neurophysiological states inform the stories we carry. I primarily practice Generational Brainspotting to build regulation, attentively uncover memories, honor grief and joy, with the goal of expanding your capacity for holding generative conflict, clarity, and creativity. It is your birthright to remember fully, your soul origin and purpose.
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Photo of Kelsey Kozlowski, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Kelsey Kozlowski
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
I incorporate EMDR, Yoga, Meditation and a variety of body based approaches in my clinical work with clients.
I believe healing begins with building a trusting, authentic therapeutic relationship and affirming clients’ unique strengths and life experiences given their cultural background. I utilize Polyvagal Theory as a cornerstone for mind-body techniques to help heal one’s nervous system and past traumas, using ACT, CBT, Inner Child work, and Intersectional Feminist theory.
I incorporate EMDR, Yoga, Meditation and a variety of body based approaches in my clinical work with clients.
I believe healing begins with building a trusting, authentic therapeutic relationship and affirming clients’ unique strengths and life experiences given their cultural background. I utilize Polyvagal Theory as a cornerstone for mind-body techniques to help heal one’s nervous system and past traumas, using ACT, CBT, Inner Child work, and Intersectional Feminist theory.
(773) 839-9458 View (773) 839-9458
Photo of Derek Bylsma, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Derek Bylsma
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601
Derek is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and respected expert in his field. He is also fully trained in EMDR Therapy. In addition to two bachelor degrees, one from Kalamazoo College and the other from University of Wisconsin-Madison, Derek also holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University. Derek has worked extensively with people suffering from all types of addictions as well as depression, anxiety and dual diagnosis. He believes in collaborating with his clients and "It all works out in the end. If it hasn't worked out, it's not the end"
Derek is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and respected expert in his field. He is also fully trained in EMDR Therapy. In addition to two bachelor degrees, one from Kalamazoo College and the other from University of Wisconsin-Madison, Derek also holds a Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Roosevelt University. Derek has worked extensively with people suffering from all types of addictions as well as depression, anxiety and dual diagnosis. He believes in collaborating with his clients and "It all works out in the end. If it hasn't worked out, it's not the end"
(312) 757-7509 View (312) 757-7509
Photo of Fallon Sowers-Saini, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Fallon Sowers-Saini
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
To help you heal and initiate change in your life, I incorporate a variety of theories and frameworks based on your needs such as the psychodynamic, attachment, and feminist models as well as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS).
Do you ever struggle with setting boundaries or prioritizing your needs in relationships? Do feelings of guilt or shame keep you from being vulnerable? Do you ever find yourself feeling anxious or depressed but can’t understand why? Trauma can sometimes have the ability to impact our thoughts, feelings, and relationships. As a trauma-focused therapist I have a thorough understanding of not only the impact trauma can have on a person’s life but also a person’s capacity to heal from trauma. I practice within a relational approach to therapy based on the mutuality, respect, and collaboration within the therapeutic relationship.
To help you heal and initiate change in your life, I incorporate a variety of theories and frameworks based on your needs such as the psychodynamic, attachment, and feminist models as well as EMDR, DBT, ACT, and Internal Family Systems therapy (IFS).
Do you ever struggle with setting boundaries or prioritizing your needs in relationships? Do feelings of guilt or shame keep you from being vulnerable? Do you ever find yourself feeling anxious or depressed but can’t understand why? Trauma can sometimes have the ability to impact our thoughts, feelings, and relationships. As a trauma-focused therapist I have a thorough understanding of not only the impact trauma can have on a person’s life but also a person’s capacity to heal from trauma. I practice within a relational approach to therapy based on the mutuality, respect, and collaboration within the therapeutic relationship.
(773) 207-3902 View (773) 207-3902
Photo of Lexus Goings, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Lexus Goings
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I am certified in EMDR and trained in DBT, ensuring a trauma-informed approach to healing.
To schedule sessions, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh Lexus is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and empowering environment for individuals to explore their unique experiences. With a focus on enhancing inner strength and resilience, she specializes in providing support for various challenges, including trauma, relationship difficulties, neuro-divergence, grief/loss, and coping skill development. Lexus creates a flexible and supportive space that accommodates the needs of all individuals.
I am certified in EMDR and trained in DBT, ensuring a trauma-informed approach to healing.
To schedule sessions, please book a call with our Client Care Coordinator here: www.calendly.com/adminccbh Lexus is dedicated to fostering a nurturing and empowering environment for individuals to explore their unique experiences. With a focus on enhancing inner strength and resilience, she specializes in providing support for various challenges, including trauma, relationship difficulties, neuro-divergence, grief/loss, and coping skill development. Lexus creates a flexible and supportive space that accommodates the needs of all individuals.
(217) 670-6228 View (217) 670-6228
Photo of Ana N Hedenstrom, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ana N Hedenstrom
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA
Verified Verified
8 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
I believe that all healing happens within connection. All personal healing, in turn heals the collective. You are the creator of your own life. We will move down a path of self-actualization and change, utilizing your personal strengths to guide us. I am passionate about facilitating creative, client-centered and culturally-centered therapy. You are the expert on your life, and I will support you in transformative self-reflection and embodiment. When it comes to PTSD and trauma, I use somatic practices, EMDR Flash Technique, art therapy and attachment theory.
I believe that all healing happens within connection. All personal healing, in turn heals the collective. You are the creator of your own life. We will move down a path of self-actualization and change, utilizing your personal strengths to guide us. I am passionate about facilitating creative, client-centered and culturally-centered therapy. You are the expert on your life, and I will support you in transformative self-reflection and embodiment. When it comes to PTSD and trauma, I use somatic practices, EMDR Flash Technique, art therapy and attachment theory.
(872) 204-0432 View (872) 204-0432
Photo of Rachel Shine, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Rachel Shine
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I use an integrative approach to therapy (incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Family Systems, Relational Cultural Theory, and Mindfulness) to decrease these symptoms, while working to process and heal from the anxiety or trauma that is likely at the root of this struggle.
It can sometimes feel as if our thoughts are overtaking us, sending us down a negative or anxious spiral. In these moments, it can be difficult to think clearly, feel connected to our bodies, or even to take a deep breath. We start to panic, realizing that we are spiraling downwards, which often leads to even more panic. This negative or anxious spiral does not just live in our minds, but also impacts our everyday lives--we can experience difficulty sleeping, flashbacks, changed eating habits, or withdrawal from social activities, among other things.
I use an integrative approach to therapy (incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Family Systems, Relational Cultural Theory, and Mindfulness) to decrease these symptoms, while working to process and heal from the anxiety or trauma that is likely at the root of this struggle.
It can sometimes feel as if our thoughts are overtaking us, sending us down a negative or anxious spiral. In these moments, it can be difficult to think clearly, feel connected to our bodies, or even to take a deep breath. We start to panic, realizing that we are spiraling downwards, which often leads to even more panic. This negative or anxious spiral does not just live in our minds, but also impacts our everyday lives--we can experience difficulty sleeping, flashbacks, changed eating habits, or withdrawal from social activities, among other things.
(872) 401-6627 View (872) 401-6627
Photo of Brian Tobin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Brian Tobin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with influences of Client-centered therapy and Humanistic philosophy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and am trained in Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
I utilize Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), along with influences of Client-centered therapy and Humanistic philosophy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) as well as Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and am trained in Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR).
(872) 395-6018 View (872) 395-6018
Photo of Rajya Karipineni, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Rajya Karipineni
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW-C, CYT-200
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
I use Trauma-Conscious Yoga, EMDR, somatic therapy and blend traditional and non-traditional approaches.
Has life thrown a lot at you? Maybe you’ve successfully gotten through past difficulties, only to find your old ways of coping no longer serve you. Let’s work together to find your healing. With warmth and acceptance, I work to unlock your connection to and trust in your strengths, wisdom, and creativity. We'll shape an understanding of who you are, where you’d like to be, and what tools work for you to build skills and find solutions to your goals. Using my foundation in the neurophysiology of stress and trauma, I will partner with you to cultivate cognitive and body-based tools to cope and find new responses to present challenges.
I use Trauma-Conscious Yoga, EMDR, somatic therapy and blend traditional and non-traditional approaches.
Has life thrown a lot at you? Maybe you’ve successfully gotten through past difficulties, only to find your old ways of coping no longer serve you. Let’s work together to find your healing. With warmth and acceptance, I work to unlock your connection to and trust in your strengths, wisdom, and creativity. We'll shape an understanding of who you are, where you’d like to be, and what tools work for you to build skills and find solutions to your goals. Using my foundation in the neurophysiology of stress and trauma, I will partner with you to cultivate cognitive and body-based tools to cope and find new responses to present challenges.
(872) 666-9815 View (872) 666-9815
Photo of Sarah Grebasch, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Sarah Grebasch
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I utilize a collaborative, strengths-based approach which incorporates a variety of therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness.
I’m honored to help others along their path of self-discovery and change. Having worked in the field for 15 years, I’ve gained a wealth of information and experience working with those with chronic medical concerns, grief and loss, trauma, and addictions (active and in recovery). I’ve learned that a strength of mine is supporting others with anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors and transitions, and relationship concerns. I'll work with you to identify your goals and develop a plan that will support, maintain, and continue positive changes, even after our work is completed.
I utilize a collaborative, strengths-based approach which incorporates a variety of therapeutic techniques including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness.
I’m honored to help others along their path of self-discovery and change. Having worked in the field for 15 years, I’ve gained a wealth of information and experience working with those with chronic medical concerns, grief and loss, trauma, and addictions (active and in recovery). I’ve learned that a strength of mine is supporting others with anxiety, depression, trauma, life stressors and transitions, and relationship concerns. I'll work with you to identify your goals and develop a plan that will support, maintain, and continue positive changes, even after our work is completed.
(773) 985-1053 View (773) 985-1053
Photo of Avi Vodnoy Wolf, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Avi Vodnoy Wolf
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
You want to feel emotions fully without shame. You want to be connected to your own sense of desire and purpose. You deserve a space to explore the parts of you that feel unknown, “unacceptable,” or taboo. My commitment in the therapeutic relationship is to welcome and value all aspects of your experience – the stories that reflect humor and resilience, and the parts that have been shamed or dismissed. I combine EMDR trauma processing, somatic approaches, and discussions about how systems of oppression shape what we believe about ourselves to help clients express emotion and explore new patterns and identities.
You want to feel emotions fully without shame. You want to be connected to your own sense of desire and purpose. You deserve a space to explore the parts of you that feel unknown, “unacceptable,” or taboo. My commitment in the therapeutic relationship is to welcome and value all aspects of your experience – the stories that reflect humor and resilience, and the parts that have been shamed or dismissed. I combine EMDR trauma processing, somatic approaches, and discussions about how systems of oppression shape what we believe about ourselves to help clients express emotion and explore new patterns and identities.
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Photo of Inner Wisdom Therapy, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Inner Wisdom Therapy
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60607  (Online Only)
I mindfully help clients feel safe to connect to themselves & others, through EMDR and inner child work to offer relief from your current challenges.
I am a Latina and first gen, psychologist. My mission is to help clients find peace in their daily lives by unpacking beliefs and behaviors that although once helpful, may be holding them back from the lives they want to live. I place an emphasis on helping clients to arrive at a place in their lives where they feel in alignment with their authentic self, connected to their bodies, and internal wisdom. I specialize in working with adults who face challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, binge eating, financial mindset, and self-esteem issues that impact dating, or work performance.
I mindfully help clients feel safe to connect to themselves & others, through EMDR and inner child work to offer relief from your current challenges.
I am a Latina and first gen, psychologist. My mission is to help clients find peace in their daily lives by unpacking beliefs and behaviors that although once helpful, may be holding them back from the lives they want to live. I place an emphasis on helping clients to arrive at a place in their lives where they feel in alignment with their authentic self, connected to their bodies, and internal wisdom. I specialize in working with adults who face challenges related to trauma, anxiety, depression, binge eating, financial mindset, and self-esteem issues that impact dating, or work performance.
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Photo of Trashona Fowler, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Trashona Fowler
Pre-Licensed Professional, MA
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60620
With extensive experience utilizing trauma-informed cognitive behavior therapy (TF-CBT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR).
You deserve to be heard, understood, validated and supported. TraShona is a clinical psychotherapist, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties. While she works with clients across the developmental lifespan, TraShona has expertise in providing evidence-based therapies to couples, adolescents, and young adults. She is committed to providing a safe space for you, by ensuring that the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative and connecting experience.
With extensive experience utilizing trauma-informed cognitive behavior therapy (TF-CBT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), and eye movement desensitization reprocessing (EMDR).
You deserve to be heard, understood, validated and supported. TraShona is a clinical psychotherapist, specializing in the treatment of depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship difficulties. While she works with clients across the developmental lifespan, TraShona has expertise in providing evidence-based therapies to couples, adolescents, and young adults. She is committed to providing a safe space for you, by ensuring that the therapeutic relationship is a collaborative and connecting experience.
(773) 754-4367 View (773) 754-4367
Photo of Mandsukh (Sukhi) Sandhu, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Mandsukh (Sukhi) Sandhu
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
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 Jacqueline Allen, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jacqueline Allen
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in EMDR therapy.
When I was a kid, I observed my mom go through counseling. I saw her gain tools to manage depression and evolve into someone who knew her worth. She modeled for me how effective counseling can be. It is my absolute pleasure to support my clients in this way. I am especially passionate about supporting women of color in healing from wounds, and seeing & strengthening their resilience.
I specialize in EMDR therapy.
When I was a kid, I observed my mom go through counseling. I saw her gain tools to manage depression and evolve into someone who knew her worth. She modeled for me how effective counseling can be. It is my absolute pleasure to support my clients in this way. I am especially passionate about supporting women of color in healing from wounds, and seeing & strengthening their resilience.
(872) 278-5111 View (872) 278-5111
Photo of Psychotherapy Associates of Chicago - Teletherapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Psychotherapy Associates of Chicago - Teletherapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
You may have been considering going to therapy for some time, but don't know who to speak to. Or perhaps you're facing an unexpected stress in your life. Either way, we're here to help and you don't have to face things alone. We have the training and experience to help a wide variety of issues: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or relationship problems. Our staff offers a wide range of services including individual therapy, couples counseling, EMDR, and mindfulness training. We specialize in helping people feel better.
You may have been considering going to therapy for some time, but don't know who to speak to. Or perhaps you're facing an unexpected stress in your life. Either way, we're here to help and you don't have to face things alone. We have the training and experience to help a wide variety of issues: anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, or relationship problems. Our staff offers a wide range of services including individual therapy, couples counseling, EMDR, and mindfulness training. We specialize in helping people feel better.
(773) 639-2017 View (773) 639-2017
Photo of Restorative Counseling, Psychologist in Chicago, IL
Restorative Counseling
Psychologist, PhD, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Each clinician has unique experience and specialization including advanced training in ACT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR, as well as other evidence-based practices.
We believe you already have all you need to be successful within you. Our strength-based approach will help identify and utilize your strengths to create a strong foundation for success. Our team celebrates diversity and views it as a strength. We are an open and accepting community that is welcoming to all. Our clinicians’ unique backgrounds and specialties allow us to address a comprehensive range of difficulties.
Each clinician has unique experience and specialization including advanced training in ACT, CBT, DBT, and EMDR, as well as other evidence-based practices.
We believe you already have all you need to be successful within you. Our strength-based approach will help identify and utilize your strengths to create a strong foundation for success. Our team celebrates diversity and views it as a strength. We are an open and accepting community that is welcoming to all. Our clinicians’ unique backgrounds and specialties allow us to address a comprehensive range of difficulties.
(312) 883-7060 View (312) 883-7060
Photo of Jane H Niermann, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jane H Niermann
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
Waitlist for new clients
As a LCSW, CADC, and EMDR certified clinician, my goal is to help you reach your goals.
Are you ready to feel better? Change can be hard, and possible and rewarding. I provide a safe, non-judgmental place to learn about yourself and the changes you'd like to make. I focus on the mind-body connection, specifically in understanding its role in learning to cope with stress, trauma, and relationship issues. I use talk therapy, EMDR, and humor to help you make positive changes, overcome obstacles, and learn how to change unhelpful thinking patterns, all the while improving self esteem and relationships.
As a LCSW, CADC, and EMDR certified clinician, my goal is to help you reach your goals.
Are you ready to feel better? Change can be hard, and possible and rewarding. I provide a safe, non-judgmental place to learn about yourself and the changes you'd like to make. I focus on the mind-body connection, specifically in understanding its role in learning to cope with stress, trauma, and relationship issues. I use talk therapy, EMDR, and humor to help you make positive changes, overcome obstacles, and learn how to change unhelpful thinking patterns, all the while improving self esteem and relationships.
(773) 389-1939 View (773) 389-1939
Photo of Christine Leone, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Christine Leone
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
I am a liberation-focused Latina EMDR therapist and I help to empower individuals on their journey toward inner healing, reclaiming their authentic power and a deeper sense of connection. While my practice centers BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identities, I am affirming of neurodiversity and warmly welcome all seeking healing and self-discovery. If you feel burdened by expectations, feel unseen, disconnected, or lost, I’m here to listen and hold space for you. Together, we will venture beneath the surface of your experiences to explore the "why" behind your feelings and behaviors and uproot the limiting beliefs to bring you more inner peace.
I am a liberation-focused Latina EMDR therapist and I help to empower individuals on their journey toward inner healing, reclaiming their authentic power and a deeper sense of connection. While my practice centers BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ identities, I am affirming of neurodiversity and warmly welcome all seeking healing and self-discovery. If you feel burdened by expectations, feel unseen, disconnected, or lost, I’m here to listen and hold space for you. Together, we will venture beneath the surface of your experiences to explore the "why" behind your feelings and behaviors and uproot the limiting beliefs to bring you more inner peace.
(312) 548-8137 x1 View (312) 548-8137 x1
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.