Photo of Jared Day, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jared Day
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625  (Online Only)
I have additional training in LGBTQIA+ issues, teens, Identity development, trauma informed care (EMDR), addictions, Latino mental health, & mood disorders.
Are you LGBTQIA+ and struggling with a difficult time in life? Does anxiety and depression challenge you daily? If you want someone to collaboratively work with, i'm your person. Lets dig in and find how to best support your desired change with developing coping skills for the present and mending the past for a better future. Sometimes finding support can be a critical part of healing or becoming who you want to be. I want to connect with you to find your strengths to navigate through this time in your life and live as the authentic person you want to be.
I have additional training in LGBTQIA+ issues, teens, Identity development, trauma informed care (EMDR), addictions, Latino mental health, & mood disorders.
Are you LGBTQIA+ and struggling with a difficult time in life? Does anxiety and depression challenge you daily? If you want someone to collaboratively work with, i'm your person. Lets dig in and find how to best support your desired change with developing coping skills for the present and mending the past for a better future. Sometimes finding support can be a critical part of healing or becoming who you want to be. I want to connect with you to find your strengths to navigate through this time in your life and live as the authentic person you want to be.
(773) 466-6788 View (773) 466-6788
Photo of Mary-Lauren O'Crowley, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Mary-Lauren O'Crowley
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60604
I use CBT and EMDR to address negative thinking, unhealthy behaviors, poor self-esteem, low mood, and past trauma so that you can live life more fully.
Do you find yourself replaying conversations over and over in your head? Do you jump to conclusions or assume the worst? Do you notice that you feel panicky, restless, or overwhelmed? Do you struggle with negative beliefs about yourself or the world? Have you been through something difficult or traumatic like the loss of a loved one, recurrent family conflict, job loss, or the end of a relationship? If you answered “yes” to any of these, then you’ve come to the right place! Most of us know what needs to change, but not a lot of us know what needs to be done to get there. That’s where I come in.
I use CBT and EMDR to address negative thinking, unhealthy behaviors, poor self-esteem, low mood, and past trauma so that you can live life more fully.
Do you find yourself replaying conversations over and over in your head? Do you jump to conclusions or assume the worst? Do you notice that you feel panicky, restless, or overwhelmed? Do you struggle with negative beliefs about yourself or the world? Have you been through something difficult or traumatic like the loss of a loved one, recurrent family conflict, job loss, or the end of a relationship? If you answered “yes” to any of these, then you’ve come to the right place! Most of us know what needs to change, but not a lot of us know what needs to be done to get there. That’s where I come in.
(312) 584-6125 View (312) 584-6125
Photo of Jonathan Levy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jonathan Levy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
My specialties include: couples therapy; relationship issues; parenting strategies; working with teenage boys and young men; helping individuals facing potential indictment or prosecution; EMDR; and helping Jewish individuals/families with issues around conflict, closeness, and identity.
I am the co-founder of Psychotherapy Associates of Chicago and am one of the most experienced clinicians on PAC's team, having nearly 25 years of practice in the field.
My specialties include: couples therapy; relationship issues; parenting strategies; working with teenage boys and young men; helping individuals facing potential indictment or prosecution; EMDR; and helping Jewish individuals/families with issues around conflict, closeness, and identity.
I am the co-founder of Psychotherapy Associates of Chicago and am one of the most experienced clinicians on PAC's team, having nearly 25 years of practice in the field.
(872) 205-3726 View (872) 205-3726
Photo of CFC Therapy Group, Counselor in Chicago, IL
CFC Therapy Group
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
Accepting new clients in-person or virtual. Our approach is goal-oriented at all levels and we truly believe everyone deserves to be free from the things holding them back. At CFC you will find a team of therapists who truly care. We take our time to get to know our clients and create goals that we can support you with. Whether it is you and your partner seeking intimacy or you are looking for relief from anxiety that doesn't seem to ever go away; we are here to help. Our motto is to walk beside our clients and share in this journey. We have 3 EMDR trained therapists, 4 couples counselors, a somatic pain specialist, and 3 interns.
Accepting new clients in-person or virtual. Our approach is goal-oriented at all levels and we truly believe everyone deserves to be free from the things holding them back. At CFC you will find a team of therapists who truly care. We take our time to get to know our clients and create goals that we can support you with. Whether it is you and your partner seeking intimacy or you are looking for relief from anxiety that doesn't seem to ever go away; we are here to help. Our motto is to walk beside our clients and share in this journey. We have 3 EMDR trained therapists, 4 couples counselors, a somatic pain specialist, and 3 interns.
(872) 713-5402 View (872) 713-5402
Photo of 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 Therapy for Queer Chicagoans, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Therapy for Queer Chicagoans
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60659  (Online Only)
I practice a mixture of talk therapy, EMDR & meditation/mindfulness.
2 open spots in April 2024, I invite you to reach out ... I was an activist long before I was a therapist, and I bridge these two approaches in my work. Chicago parents, queers, spoonies, feminists, sex workers, polyfolx and weirdos of all stripes: I got you. I help people heal from trauma and bring joy into their lives.
I practice a mixture of talk therapy, EMDR & meditation/mindfulness.
2 open spots in April 2024, I invite you to reach out ... I was an activist long before I was a therapist, and I bridge these two approaches in my work. Chicago parents, queers, spoonies, feminists, sex workers, polyfolx and weirdos of all stripes: I got you. I help people heal from trauma and bring joy into their lives.
(773) 299-1625 View (773) 299-1625
Photo of Amy Graham, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Amy Graham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, ATR, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Expressive Arts Therapist in Chicago, IL. My holistic framework and creative process supports the whole person improving physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual well being. Combining Psychotherapy, Expressive Arts therapies and EMDR, I provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental space to gently explore the underlying causes of symptoms, expand self-awareness, learn valuable coping skills, embrace self-compassion, connect the mind and body, and rewrite your past narrative. All of you is welcome here. Share your voice, speak your truth, take up space.
Hello and welcome! I am a Licensed Professional Counselor and Expressive Arts Therapist in Chicago, IL. My holistic framework and creative process supports the whole person improving physical, emotional, social, intellectual and spiritual well being. Combining Psychotherapy, Expressive Arts therapies and EMDR, I provide a safe, supportive and non-judgmental space to gently explore the underlying causes of symptoms, expand self-awareness, learn valuable coping skills, embrace self-compassion, connect the mind and body, and rewrite your past narrative. All of you is welcome here. Share your voice, speak your truth, take up space.
(312) 675-4685 View (312) 675-4685
Photo of David Rosenblatt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
David Rosenblatt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618
My name is David Rosenblatt, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Chicago Illinois and working with clients in the Chicagoland area both in person and telehealth. I work with adults and older adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma, using Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Narrative to help my clients feel better about themselves and function better.
My name is David Rosenblatt, and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) based in Chicago Illinois and working with clients in the Chicagoland area both in person and telehealth. I work with adults and older adults and specialize in depression, anxiety, and trauma, using Eye Movement Desensitization (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Narrative to help my clients feel better about themselves and function better.
(773) 389-2423 View (773) 389-2423
Photo of Mada Leanga, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Mada Leanga
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I use an Integrative approach to therapy (EMDR, internal Family Systems, Ego Psychology, Hypnotherapy, ACT).
I believe that my role as a counselor is to help others become congruent to their truth and find their own path. I focus on client strengths, and create a safe and supportive environment for insight and transformation to occur. I see myself as an empathic and intuitive listener, as well as a direct communicator. I can tell it as I see it, with tact and humor but I am also gentle and sensible. I find creative ways to challenge the barriers clients may encounter in their life journey. I believe in personal responsibility, and I see the counseling process as an active and collaborative one. I truly believe in a mind body connection.
I use an Integrative approach to therapy (EMDR, internal Family Systems, Ego Psychology, Hypnotherapy, ACT).
I believe that my role as a counselor is to help others become congruent to their truth and find their own path. I focus on client strengths, and create a safe and supportive environment for insight and transformation to occur. I see myself as an empathic and intuitive listener, as well as a direct communicator. I can tell it as I see it, with tact and humor but I am also gentle and sensible. I find creative ways to challenge the barriers clients may encounter in their life journey. I believe in personal responsibility, and I see the counseling process as an active and collaborative one. I truly believe in a mind body connection.
(773) 782-6980 View (773) 782-6980
Photo of Jill Jeffrey, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jill Jeffrey
Counselor, MAAT, LCPC, ATR-BC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I use an array of Art Therapy, PolyVagal Therapy, Narrative Therapy, CBT and EMDR techniques to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and social and family issues in a safe and playful manner with successful results.
You have come here because you want something to change. Therapy can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. I think a lot about the brain and and how we unconsciously replicate patterns. The work I do uses current neuropsychology to help integrate outdated patterns into newer more helpful ones.
I use an array of Art Therapy, PolyVagal Therapy, Narrative Therapy, CBT and EMDR techniques to address anxiety, depression, trauma, and social and family issues in a safe and playful manner with successful results.
You have come here because you want something to change. Therapy can bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be. I think a lot about the brain and and how we unconsciously replicate patterns. The work I do uses current neuropsychology to help integrate outdated patterns into newer more helpful ones.
(312) 471-9844 View (312) 471-9844
Photo of Illinois Online EMDR with The Chicago EMDR Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Illinois Online EMDR with The Chicago EMDR Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60642
Looking for premier EMDR Therapy? Most of our clients have done "talk therapy" before and are ready to take therapy to the next level and go deeper for lasting change from within. Let's transform doubt, fear, and limits... We'll reveal growth and joy! Together, we'll break through limiting beliefs, trauma, and discover what is possible. We’ll transform “bad” experiences into post-traumatic growth with EMDR. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a highly effective and specialized therapy. Give yourself the gift of experiencing EMDR with a certified therapist. Let's reveal joy and help you live your best life!
Looking for premier EMDR Therapy? Most of our clients have done "talk therapy" before and are ready to take therapy to the next level and go deeper for lasting change from within. Let's transform doubt, fear, and limits... We'll reveal growth and joy! Together, we'll break through limiting beliefs, trauma, and discover what is possible. We’ll transform “bad” experiences into post-traumatic growth with EMDR. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a highly effective and specialized therapy. Give yourself the gift of experiencing EMDR with a certified therapist. Let's reveal joy and help you live your best life!
(708) 578-2860 View (708) 578-2860
Photo of Marla Vender, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Marla Vender
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60647
I am Level Two certified in EMDR.
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, poor executive functioning, trauma, or other issues, you don't have to handle this alone. I'm committed to your well-being. You're entitled to your feelings and beliefs, and will always come first in this process. You don’t have to hide, please, or impress. You will be heard and accepted as you are, without judgment or labels. You are not your problem. You deserve to feel good. Knowing what happened to you is important but I don’t believe there’s something wrong with you.  If you can't believe this for yourself yet, I'll believe it for you until you do.
I am Level Two certified in EMDR.
If you're struggling with anxiety, depression, relationships, poor executive functioning, trauma, or other issues, you don't have to handle this alone. I'm committed to your well-being. You're entitled to your feelings and beliefs, and will always come first in this process. You don’t have to hide, please, or impress. You will be heard and accepted as you are, without judgment or labels. You are not your problem. You deserve to feel good. Knowing what happened to you is important but I don’t believe there’s something wrong with you.  If you can't believe this for yourself yet, I'll believe it for you until you do.
(872) 204-2831 View (872) 204-2831
Photo of Nathalia Gonzalez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Nathalia Gonzalez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
During our time together, we may process the past through inherited generational narratives or EMDR, reduce their impact on your current lived experience, and identify the values to guide/motivate you towards a meaningful and fulfilling life through the application of acceptance and commitment therapy.
As a creative, eclectic therapist, with a trauma informed approach, my focus is exploring opportunities geared towards strengthening an individual’s ability to live in alignment with their values and experience joy. Understanding the importance of a non-judgmental and caring approach, I offer a warm, empathic, and collaborative therapy space that reflects my passion for helping clients build fuller and more authentic lives. My hope is that by building a safe and secure relationship, we create space to process and grow from the breadth of experiences that make us human: the moments of joy, the moments of hardship, the unknown.
During our time together, we may process the past through inherited generational narratives or EMDR, reduce their impact on your current lived experience, and identify the values to guide/motivate you towards a meaningful and fulfilling life through the application of acceptance and commitment therapy.
As a creative, eclectic therapist, with a trauma informed approach, my focus is exploring opportunities geared towards strengthening an individual’s ability to live in alignment with their values and experience joy. Understanding the importance of a non-judgmental and caring approach, I offer a warm, empathic, and collaborative therapy space that reflects my passion for helping clients build fuller and more authentic lives. My hope is that by building a safe and secure relationship, we create space to process and grow from the breadth of experiences that make us human: the moments of joy, the moments of hardship, the unknown.
(773) 974-3685 View (773) 974-3685
Photo of Ashton Crain, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ashton Crain
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I specialize in EMDR, which is a specialized treatment for trauma but can be used on all sorts of presenting concerns.
I want you to have a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space for connecting you with the best version of you. I work with adults who have experienced trauma and who may be dealing with PTSD. I also work with those dealing with the difficulties of eating disorders, anxiety, depression and life transitions. My primary goal is help you feel better quickly, therefore I spend time getting to know you so we can set goals and work on reaching them.
I specialize in EMDR, which is a specialized treatment for trauma but can be used on all sorts of presenting concerns.
I want you to have a safe, nonjudgmental, and collaborative space for connecting you with the best version of you. I work with adults who have experienced trauma and who may be dealing with PTSD. I also work with those dealing with the difficulties of eating disorders, anxiety, depression and life transitions. My primary goal is help you feel better quickly, therefore I spend time getting to know you so we can set goals and work on reaching them.
(630) 332-3218 View (630) 332-3218
Photo of Dr. Eleanor D Laser, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Dr. Eleanor D Laser
Counselor, PhD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience using Hypnosis, NLP, EMDR and EFT for medical procedures, weight loss, anxiety reduction, essential tremor, and other issues. Through hypnosis, I can help you shift into a new way of thinking and being by deleting old messages and old programmed behaviors. We can replace old behaviors that no longer serve you with new thoughts and actions and that will improve the quality of your life and give you the peace and comfort. I am a coauthor of Patient Sedation Without Medication. Please visit my website www.laserhypnosis.com.
(312) 465-4993 View (312) 465-4993
Photo of Jamie Rae Harris, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Jamie Rae Harris
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
Waitlist for new clients
I approach therapy in a collaborative fashion, integrating evidenced-based techniques (CBT, DBT, ACT,EMDR), developmental considerations, and mindfulness techniques with a humanistic approach and emphasis on individual self-efficacy.
I have a diverse training background with young children through adults which has granted me the privilege of working with culturally and demographically diverse individuals with various mental health and behavioral concerns, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, substance use concerns, personality disorders, SMI, LGBTQ+ specific concerns, and developmental disorders including autism spectrum disorders and cognitive impairment. Throughout my career path, I have met so many amazing people who have not realized how amazing they truly were. It is a privilege to be able to help other people see their potential and strength.
I approach therapy in a collaborative fashion, integrating evidenced-based techniques (CBT, DBT, ACT,EMDR), developmental considerations, and mindfulness techniques with a humanistic approach and emphasis on individual self-efficacy.
I have a diverse training background with young children through adults which has granted me the privilege of working with culturally and demographically diverse individuals with various mental health and behavioral concerns, including anxiety disorders, mood disorders, substance use concerns, personality disorders, SMI, LGBTQ+ specific concerns, and developmental disorders including autism spectrum disorders and cognitive impairment. Throughout my career path, I have met so many amazing people who have not realized how amazing they truly were. It is a privilege to be able to help other people see their potential and strength.
(773) 492-8962 View (773) 492-8962
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 Chih-Hsien Lin, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Chih-Hsien Lin
Counselor, MA, LCPC, BC-DMT, EMDR, MPA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60660
I am a Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist trained in EMDR.
Suffering is often the result of less than nurturing relationships and experiences. Fear can become imprisoned in the body. Family and culture can dictate how safe it is, or not safe, to express and be yourself. My immigrant experience from Taiwan allows me deeper empathy with people navigating life transitions and relating to different cultures and new relationships. At Embodied Way Psychotherapy PLLC, I strive to empower individuals within the context of systemic injustice and complications. My work is to provide compassion and wisdom so that you can feel fully alive and authentic in your body, your world and your relationships.
I am a Board Certified Dance/Movement Therapist trained in EMDR.
Suffering is often the result of less than nurturing relationships and experiences. Fear can become imprisoned in the body. Family and culture can dictate how safe it is, or not safe, to express and be yourself. My immigrant experience from Taiwan allows me deeper empathy with people navigating life transitions and relating to different cultures and new relationships. At Embodied Way Psychotherapy PLLC, I strive to empower individuals within the context of systemic injustice and complications. My work is to provide compassion and wisdom so that you can feel fully alive and authentic in your body, your world and your relationships.
(224) 601-5054 View (224) 601-5054
Photo of Charlie Brookover, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Charlie Brookover
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
I am experienced in both individual and group therapy, and am trained in EMDR to help clients suffering from trauma.
At times a crisis, trauma, or series of compounding stressors can overwhelm one’s normal resilience and ability to cope. Professional therapy provides help in navigating through these difficult times, and the process can create lasting insight leading to a richer, more satisfying life. I believe as a clinical therapist, my responsibility is to provide a space where clients feel safe, valued and heard. I appreciate the uniqueness of each of my clients, and see the therapy process as a collaboration, where patterns of thinking and behavior are explored in an effort to bring about change.
I am experienced in both individual and group therapy, and am trained in EMDR to help clients suffering from trauma.
At times a crisis, trauma, or series of compounding stressors can overwhelm one’s normal resilience and ability to cope. Professional therapy provides help in navigating through these difficult times, and the process can create lasting insight leading to a richer, more satisfying life. I believe as a clinical therapist, my responsibility is to provide a space where clients feel safe, valued and heard. I appreciate the uniqueness of each of my clients, and see the therapy process as a collaboration, where patterns of thinking and behavior are explored in an effort to bring about change.
(312) 584-5424 View (312) 584-5424
Photo of Diane Grimard Wilson, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Diane Grimard Wilson
Counselor, LCPC, , BCN
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60606
I am skilled at brain-based tools including mindful meditation, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, and Interactive Metronome.
Life can be hard, especially in today's world. It's easy to feel isolated, overwhelmed, and disconnected. If you're struggling with depression, focus, anxiety, burnout, sleep, or simply feeling stuck, you're not alone. Many people I see have goals they want to achieve and are not where they want to be. They experience a loss of energy due to barriers that hold them back such as Internet addiction, procrastination, and lack of confidence. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these challenges and find their path to healing and growth.
I am skilled at brain-based tools including mindful meditation, neurofeedback, EMDR, hypnosis, and Interactive Metronome.
Life can be hard, especially in today's world. It's easy to feel isolated, overwhelmed, and disconnected. If you're struggling with depression, focus, anxiety, burnout, sleep, or simply feeling stuck, you're not alone. Many people I see have goals they want to achieve and are not where they want to be. They experience a loss of energy due to barriers that hold them back such as Internet addiction, procrastination, and lack of confidence. I specialize in helping individuals navigate these challenges and find their path to healing and growth.
(312) 925-5176 View (312) 925-5176
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.