Photo of Amanda Atkins, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Amanda Atkins
Marriage & Family Therapist, MS, LMFT, PMH-C
Verified Verified
7 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60625
I'm EMDR and EFT trained & recently taught a graduate course at Adler University on Perinatal Mental Health.
My specialties are in couple's issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (particularly partner, parent, or child loss), chronic or terminal illness, as well as infertility and postpartum mood disorders. I enjoy treating issues related to parenting, including the complex demands placed on parents of disabled children. I’ve partnered with corporations to provide on-site therapy in the midst of workplace crisis and tragedy, as well as presenting on mental health issues in the workplace. My first book is coming out in spring of 2025 with Workman Publishing on the topic of disability parenting.
I'm EMDR and EFT trained & recently taught a graduate course at Adler University on Perinatal Mental Health.
My specialties are in couple's issues, anxiety, depression, grief and loss (particularly partner, parent, or child loss), chronic or terminal illness, as well as infertility and postpartum mood disorders. I enjoy treating issues related to parenting, including the complex demands placed on parents of disabled children. I’ve partnered with corporations to provide on-site therapy in the midst of workplace crisis and tragedy, as well as presenting on mental health issues in the workplace. My first book is coming out in spring of 2025 with Workman Publishing on the topic of disability parenting.
(312) 651-6909 View (312) 651-6909
Photo of Ellen Duong, Licensed Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Ellen Duong
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
I have a compassionate and strengths-based approach to therapy. I believe that it is the relationship we build together that empowers you to work towards your goals. While treatment looks different for each person, I integrate techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic theory, and trauma-informed practice into my work. As a bilingual/bicultural person of color , I am particularly interested in working with those who want to explore racial/cultural identity.
I have a compassionate and strengths-based approach to therapy. I believe that it is the relationship we build together that empowers you to work towards your goals. While treatment looks different for each person, I integrate techniques from cognitive-behavioral therapy, EMDR, psychodynamic theory, and trauma-informed practice into my work. As a bilingual/bicultural person of color , I am particularly interested in working with those who want to explore racial/cultural identity.
(312) 477-3293 View (312) 477-3293
Photo of Briena Wyckstandt, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Briena Wyckstandt
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60605
Hi! My name is Briena Wyckstandt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience. I offer many therapy approaches with specific training in EMDR, DBT, and TF-CBT. I have experience working with all age ranges but most specifically teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
Hi! My name is Briena Wyckstandt and I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 6 years of experience. I offer many therapy approaches with specific training in EMDR, DBT, and TF-CBT. I have experience working with all age ranges but most specifically teens and adults experiencing anxiety, depression, and trauma.
(312) 900-8542 View (312) 900-8542
Photo of Rachel Ochse, Pre-Licensed Professional in Chicago, IL
Rachel Ochse
Pre-Licensed Professional, PsyD
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60601  (Online Only)
In addition to talk therapy I offer EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
I am passionate about helping empower my clients effect change in their lives, as well as working with individuals who have struggled to be successful with other therapists. Change is possible, and I aim to provide access quality to mental healthcare service to those looking for healing and personal growth. I believe we stay stuck in patterns, until we become aware of how histories impact our present day functioning, and opt to make changes.
In addition to talk therapy I offer EMDR and Ketamine Assisted Therapy.
I am passionate about helping empower my clients effect change in their lives, as well as working with individuals who have struggled to be successful with other therapists. Change is possible, and I aim to provide access quality to mental healthcare service to those looking for healing and personal growth. I believe we stay stuck in patterns, until we become aware of how histories impact our present day functioning, and opt to make changes.
(312) 997-5273 View (312) 997-5273
Photo of Erika Chavez, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Erika Chavez
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Welcome, my name is Erika! My work focuses on providing culturally responsive, anti-oppressive, and affirming therapeutic services to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks experiencing anxiety, depression, generational trauma, immigrant struggles, and race/ethnic identity exploration. I work from a trauma-informed lens that explores childhood experiences, relational attachments, cultural environments, and how the brain/body is developmentally affected through traumatic experiences. I integrate somatic approaches such as EMDR, parts work, DBT, the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT) and mindfulness to address and process trauma.
Welcome, my name is Erika! My work focuses on providing culturally responsive, anti-oppressive, and affirming therapeutic services to BIPOC and LGBTQ+ folks experiencing anxiety, depression, generational trauma, immigrant struggles, and race/ethnic identity exploration. I work from a trauma-informed lens that explores childhood experiences, relational attachments, cultural environments, and how the brain/body is developmentally affected through traumatic experiences. I integrate somatic approaches such as EMDR, parts work, DBT, the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics (NMT) and mindfulness to address and process trauma.
(872) 278-1423 View (872) 278-1423
Photo of Sierria Coleman, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Sierria Coleman
Counselor, MA, LCPC, EMDR, RYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60605
She has clinical experience working with young adults, veterans,BIPOC, LGBTQ+ communities using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Trauma -Focused CBT, yoga therapy, psychodynamic, and existential therapeutic modalities.
Sierria Coleman is a practicing Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago. providing individual and couples psychotherapy. Sierria strives to create a warm and inviting space for her clients. My personal mission is to help people take a journey of self-discovery, to find balance and contentment in life. Self-compassion and honest self-reflection are the first steps in avoiding the “happiness trap” and finding true peace and joy.
She has clinical experience working with young adults, veterans,BIPOC, LGBTQ+ communities using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Trauma -Focused CBT, yoga therapy, psychodynamic, and existential therapeutic modalities.
Sierria Coleman is a practicing Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago. providing individual and couples psychotherapy. Sierria strives to create a warm and inviting space for her clients. My personal mission is to help people take a journey of self-discovery, to find balance and contentment in life. Self-compassion and honest self-reflection are the first steps in avoiding the “happiness trap” and finding true peace and joy.
(312) 471-9932 View (312) 471-9932
Photo of Marina Callozzo, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Marina Callozzo
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611  (Online Only)
Marina is trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities and uses cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and dialectical behavioral therapy to assist patients change their thought process.
Marina Callozzo is a licensed clinical social worker. Marina sees therapy as a give-and-take between the therapist and patient, not just a place for patients to unload their burdens in a one-sided setting. For those who want their therapy sessions to feel like a conversation, Marina offers suggestions, reactions, and opinions. Patients can expect Marina to be compassionate, empathetic, challenging, light-hearted at times, and always a spirited advocate. She also favors humanistic and strength-based therapies, focusing on the person as an autonomous, three-dimensional individual.
Marina is trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities and uses cognitive behavioral therapy, EMDR, and dialectical behavioral therapy to assist patients change their thought process.
Marina Callozzo is a licensed clinical social worker. Marina sees therapy as a give-and-take between the therapist and patient, not just a place for patients to unload their burdens in a one-sided setting. For those who want their therapy sessions to feel like a conversation, Marina offers suggestions, reactions, and opinions. Patients can expect Marina to be compassionate, empathetic, challenging, light-hearted at times, and always a spirited advocate. She also favors humanistic and strength-based therapies, focusing on the person as an autonomous, three-dimensional individual.
(872) 274-2874 View (872) 274-2874
Photo of Christina Joly, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Christina Joly
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60659  (Online Only)
I have specialized training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) & IFS (Internal Family Systems) which are useful to address trauma & many other issues.
New availability! As of April 2024, Wednesdays at 1p and 3:15p - virtual only. Sometimes the hardest part of therapy is making the choice to begin. If you are here, you’re ready or at least thinking about starting this journey. Welcome and bring your curiosity! You don’t need to have answers when you come to therapy. You may not even know what the exact issues are. That’s okay. We will work in collaboration to find the path forward that benefits you most. There’s no “one size fits all” therapy so we may “try on” a few different things to see what works for you!
I have specialized training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) & IFS (Internal Family Systems) which are useful to address trauma & many other issues.
New availability! As of April 2024, Wednesdays at 1p and 3:15p - virtual only. Sometimes the hardest part of therapy is making the choice to begin. If you are here, you’re ready or at least thinking about starting this journey. Welcome and bring your curiosity! You don’t need to have answers when you come to therapy. You may not even know what the exact issues are. That’s okay. We will work in collaboration to find the path forward that benefits you most. There’s no “one size fits all” therapy so we may “try on” a few different things to see what works for you!
(872) 241-1440 View (872) 241-1440
Photo of Emily Woods, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Emily Woods
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60614
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant in Training.
I specialize in working with individuals who have a trauma history or are experiencing distressing life events and may be struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship issues. Often clients come to me feeling lost or not knowing where to begin. I welcome clients as they are; offering a judgment-free space to help them gain clarity and direction. With compassion and respect for my clients' stories, together we begin understanding how patterns and relationships from our past can impact our present. I help clients better understand all parts of themself so they can make small changes towards their ultimate goals.
I am a Certified EMDR Therapist and Consultant in Training.
I specialize in working with individuals who have a trauma history or are experiencing distressing life events and may be struggling with anxiety, low self-esteem, or relationship issues. Often clients come to me feeling lost or not knowing where to begin. I welcome clients as they are; offering a judgment-free space to help them gain clarity and direction. With compassion and respect for my clients' stories, together we begin understanding how patterns and relationships from our past can impact our present. I help clients better understand all parts of themself so they can make small changes towards their ultimate goals.
(312) 436-2271 View (312) 436-2271
Photo of Loretta T. Sumerset-Young in Chicago, IL
Loretta T. Sumerset-Young
LCPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60616  (Online Only)
I use an integrative approach, drawing on CBT, Gestalt, DBT, EMDR, and more.
I am deeply committed to my clients, and work with people who are ready to dive in and engage. I partner with clients who allow me to be in a space with them as they focus on healing. There is not a specific list of client categories I work with--I embrace working with anyone who is willing to show up and be here, even if it can get uncomfortable sometimes. My experiences range from supporting clients who want to manage daily anxiety, have conditions like schizophrenia or dissociative disorders, or need adjunct support with medication.
I use an integrative approach, drawing on CBT, Gestalt, DBT, EMDR, and more.
I am deeply committed to my clients, and work with people who are ready to dive in and engage. I partner with clients who allow me to be in a space with them as they focus on healing. There is not a specific list of client categories I work with--I embrace working with anyone who is willing to show up and be here, even if it can get uncomfortable sometimes. My experiences range from supporting clients who want to manage daily anxiety, have conditions like schizophrenia or dissociative disorders, or need adjunct support with medication.
(773) 917-1849 View (773) 917-1849
Photo of Gabrielle Carlwell, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Gabrielle Carlwell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60618  (Online Only)
I have completed some EMDR training and can offer that on request.
Accepting new clients of all ages with immediate availability! I pride myself on setting a space that permits you to take an inspired role in your healing journey, and it is my job to provide support and empowerment. I understand that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all practice, which is why I tailor my approach to each client depending on the nuance of the situation. It gives my life meaning to participate in a healing community, working one-on-one with people, offering a safe space to process whatever is needed: life, relationships, triggers, and other obstacles, and develop useful and pragmatic coping tools.
I have completed some EMDR training and can offer that on request.
Accepting new clients of all ages with immediate availability! I pride myself on setting a space that permits you to take an inspired role in your healing journey, and it is my job to provide support and empowerment. I understand that therapy is not a one-size-fits-all practice, which is why I tailor my approach to each client depending on the nuance of the situation. It gives my life meaning to participate in a healing community, working one-on-one with people, offering a safe space to process whatever is needed: life, relationships, triggers, and other obstacles, and develop useful and pragmatic coping tools.
(847) 443-3548 View (847) 443-3548
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 Josette Shine-Taylor, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Josette Shine-Taylor
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60615  (Online Only)
As a trauma-informed therapist I place an emphasis on EMDR therapy but still hold an eclectic approach because your situation is unique.
Ever since we have embarked on our journey through life, we may have had the opportunity to experience love, kindness, joy, or passion—but we may have also experienced pain, discomfort, anger, betrayal, tragedy, or grief. During the moments you’ve experienced the latter it’s very possible the events that took place have been frozen in your mind, making it impossible to forget or process. This may have left you feeling depressed, anxious, mistrusting, stagnant, or even scared. My goal as your therapist would be to support and empower you on your journey so you can develop a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.
As a trauma-informed therapist I place an emphasis on EMDR therapy but still hold an eclectic approach because your situation is unique.
Ever since we have embarked on our journey through life, we may have had the opportunity to experience love, kindness, joy, or passion—but we may have also experienced pain, discomfort, anger, betrayal, tragedy, or grief. During the moments you’ve experienced the latter it’s very possible the events that took place have been frozen in your mind, making it impossible to forget or process. This may have left you feeling depressed, anxious, mistrusting, stagnant, or even scared. My goal as your therapist would be to support and empower you on your journey so you can develop a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you.
(708) 394-7977 View (708) 394-7977
Photo of Shira Lichtenstein, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Shira Lichtenstein
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, AM, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60625
I am certified in EMDR and specialize in the perinatal population.
I use a collaborative treatment approach and different behavioral therapies to help clients develop skills to live more effective and meaningful lives. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of supporting clients to reach their goals. I focus on each client and their level of need and recognize what works with one individual may not work for another. I use evidence based treatment to best support each client to help navigate their journey. I am passionate about mental health issues and strongly believe that given the right tools and resources, anyone can improve their mental health.
I am certified in EMDR and specialize in the perinatal population.
I use a collaborative treatment approach and different behavioral therapies to help clients develop skills to live more effective and meaningful lives. I believe that the therapeutic relationship is at the core of supporting clients to reach their goals. I focus on each client and their level of need and recognize what works with one individual may not work for another. I use evidence based treatment to best support each client to help navigate their journey. I am passionate about mental health issues and strongly believe that given the right tools and resources, anyone can improve their mental health.
(312) 872-7146 View (312) 872-7146
Photo of Jane M Kemp, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Jane M Kemp
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60611
I utilize empirically supported treatments, ACT, EMDR and ERP in my work with clients.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and lost? Do you struggle with over-analyzing, self doubt, people pleasing and perfectionism? Have you been told that you are insightful and self aware, yet, want to move past only understanding what you're struggling with to finding relief and vitality? If the answer to any of the above is yes, I can help.
I utilize empirically supported treatments, ACT, EMDR and ERP in my work with clients.
Are you feeling overwhelmed and lost? Do you struggle with over-analyzing, self doubt, people pleasing and perfectionism? Have you been told that you are insightful and self aware, yet, want to move past only understanding what you're struggling with to finding relief and vitality? If the answer to any of the above is yes, I can help.
(312) 313-3662 View (312) 313-3662
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 Emily Lustig, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Chicago, IL
Emily Lustig
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60602
I utilize aspects of various evidence-based modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and mindfulness to support you in working towards your goals.
Therapy is an opportunity to explore how to heal in order to live an empowered and fulfilling life. If you are feeling anxious and overwhelmed from your day-to-day or recovering from a traumatic event, therapy can be a supportive space to explore various avenues for healing and growth. In our collaborative space we will identify what brings you a true sense of joy and belonging as well as practical skills for managing life stressors. My role in the therapeutic relationship is to act as a curious observer - to reflect back what I notice and to broaden our shared understanding of your experiences.
I utilize aspects of various evidence-based modalities such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT), and mindfulness to support you in working towards your goals.
Therapy is an opportunity to explore how to heal in order to live an empowered and fulfilling life. If you are feeling anxious and overwhelmed from your day-to-day or recovering from a traumatic event, therapy can be a supportive space to explore various avenues for healing and growth. In our collaborative space we will identify what brings you a true sense of joy and belonging as well as practical skills for managing life stressors. My role in the therapeutic relationship is to act as a curious observer - to reflect back what I notice and to broaden our shared understanding of your experiences.
(312) 313-0312 View (312) 313-0312
Photo of Giulia Casani, Marriage & Family Therapist in Chicago, IL
Giulia Casani
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
My international background allows me to connect with individuals struggling with cross-culturaI also offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Are you struggling in one or more aspects of your relationship with your significant other? Is your sex life not as satisfying as you hoped it to be? Are you facing trauma, loss, disruptive transitions, divorce or cultural adjustments? We will work together to define your goals and maximize your strengths in a process that is collaborative and driven by you. It is my belief that the therapeutic growth occurs in between sessions; therefore, you will be provided with the proper tools to develop insights about non-productive behaviors and patterns of thinking, and improve your daily life.
My international background allows me to connect with individuals struggling with cross-culturaI also offer Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).
Are you struggling in one or more aspects of your relationship with your significant other? Is your sex life not as satisfying as you hoped it to be? Are you facing trauma, loss, disruptive transitions, divorce or cultural adjustments? We will work together to define your goals and maximize your strengths in a process that is collaborative and driven by you. It is my belief that the therapeutic growth occurs in between sessions; therefore, you will be provided with the proper tools to develop insights about non-productive behaviors and patterns of thinking, and improve your daily life.
(872) 204-2384 View (872) 204-2384
Photo of Healing Tea Therapy - Nada C Pavlovic, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Chicago, IL
Healing Tea Therapy - Nada C Pavlovic
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CCFP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
I also incorporate EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Therapy, Family and Couples Therapy, and more.
Welcome! I am accepting new clients! I offer some evidence based tools to foster behavioral change. There is a place for talk, yet there is a need sometimes for actionable steps, suggestions and even challenges in a safe and respectful way. If you're ready to take action and take responsibility for your life, give me a call. I specialize in treating clients for trauma, addiction, mood disorders, low self esteem, eating disorders and codependency.
I also incorporate EMDR, Motivational Interviewing, Interpersonal Therapy, Family and Couples Therapy, and more.
Welcome! I am accepting new clients! I offer some evidence based tools to foster behavioral change. There is a place for talk, yet there is a need sometimes for actionable steps, suggestions and even challenges in a safe and respectful way. If you're ready to take action and take responsibility for your life, give me a call. I specialize in treating clients for trauma, addiction, mood disorders, low self esteem, eating disorders and codependency.
(773) 692-9511 View (773) 692-9511
Photo of Eric Cho, Counselor in Chicago, IL
Eric Cho
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604
I have training/experience in a variety of treatment modalities including drama therapy and expressive arts therapy, DBT, ACT, EMDR, psychodynamic, and EFT.
Are you feeling stuck or unsure of yourself? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, work/life balance, relationship concerns, or how to achieve what you really want? I can help you find your authentic voice, connect to your inner strengths, discover new perspectives, and effectively assert yourself to make the positive changes you need. I will help you manage your self-critical voices and gain meaningful insights into your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I specialize in helping young and not so young adults who are struggling with self-confidence, relationships, trauma, life transitions, and issues of identity.
I have training/experience in a variety of treatment modalities including drama therapy and expressive arts therapy, DBT, ACT, EMDR, psychodynamic, and EFT.
Are you feeling stuck or unsure of yourself? Are you struggling with anxiety, depression, work/life balance, relationship concerns, or how to achieve what you really want? I can help you find your authentic voice, connect to your inner strengths, discover new perspectives, and effectively assert yourself to make the positive changes you need. I will help you manage your self-critical voices and gain meaningful insights into your thoughts, behaviors, and emotions. I specialize in helping young and not so young adults who are struggling with self-confidence, relationships, trauma, life transitions, and issues of identity.
(773) 570-2331 View (773) 570-2331

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.