Photo of Cassandra Sloane, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Cassandra Sloane
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I utilize an integrative approach which includes talk therapy, somatic therapy, mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR therapy.
I believe that most people go through something difficult in their lives and need help moving through the resulting pain that they feel. My goal is to make you feel safe, comfortable, and connected to me while we do our work together. I am a trauma informed therapist who works with a variety of clients and client issues. My work includes anxiety, depression, complex trauma, substance use, parenting, and life transitions in adolescents and adults. I am person-centered and believe that sessions should be focused on the needs of the client.
I utilize an integrative approach which includes talk therapy, somatic therapy, mindfulness, Motivational Interviewing, Internal Family Systems, and EMDR therapy.
I believe that most people go through something difficult in their lives and need help moving through the resulting pain that they feel. My goal is to make you feel safe, comfortable, and connected to me while we do our work together. I am a trauma informed therapist who works with a variety of clients and client issues. My work includes anxiety, depression, complex trauma, substance use, parenting, and life transitions in adolescents and adults. I am person-centered and believe that sessions should be focused on the needs of the client.
(224) 218-5178 View (224) 218-5178
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
We are trained in doing EMDR for trauma issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We are trained in doing EMDR for trauma issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of The Center for Courageous Living, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
The Center for Courageous Living
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CADC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Licensed professionals specializing from child through elderly care, individual, couples and families; specialty in Christian therapy, child play therapy, EMDR trauma therapy, abuse recovery, empowerment, mood, anxiety and relational therapies, ADHD, OCD, addictions, grief and loss.
It takes courage to reach out for help. We are passionate about our clients and grateful to share in their journey. We meet clients in the valleys and help them walk through pain. We have a strong desire to help with emotional abuse recovery, restoring empowerment, equality, self-respect and self-love; helping clients learn how to set boundaries, to experience emotional safety and growth. There is hope.
Licensed professionals specializing from child through elderly care, individual, couples and families; specialty in Christian therapy, child play therapy, EMDR trauma therapy, abuse recovery, empowerment, mood, anxiety and relational therapies, ADHD, OCD, addictions, grief and loss.
It takes courage to reach out for help. We are passionate about our clients and grateful to share in their journey. We meet clients in the valleys and help them walk through pain. We have a strong desire to help with emotional abuse recovery, restoring empowerment, equality, self-respect and self-love; helping clients learn how to set boundaries, to experience emotional safety and growth. There is hope.
(847) 558-7587 View (847) 558-7587
Photo of Mercedes Conus, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Mercedes Conus
Licensed Professional Counselor, MS, LPC, EMDR, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
I am a fully bilingual Spanish/English EMDR therapist who treats trauma, post-partum depression, low self-esteem, borderline personality disorder, depression, anxiety, prolonged grief, school refusal, self-harm, ADHD, bipolar, DID, addiction, disruptive behavior, relationship conflict, and physical, sexual, and emotional abuse.
We all have a story and this story guides us. I believe that life is a journey with good and bad moments. Coping with these challenges could be difficult; why do you have to go through it alone? I believe therapy is a place where you truly find yourself and grow as person. I believe it takes great courage, self insight, and strength to reach out for help. Often when we are adjusting to new life circumstances, we don't realize the importance of acceptance. Therapy is a great place to process, explore and adapt to these changes. In therapy, we will work together to identify your needs and find the best of you.
(847) 469-9869 View (847) 469-9869
Photo of Jessica Woloshyn, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Jessica Woloshyn
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Jessica Connell, LPC, received her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grace College in 2020. She has expertise in trauma focused therapy and has completed post graduate work and training in EMDR trauma informed therapy. Jessica has experience working in private practice and in mental health/addiction residential treatment settings. Jessica is a graduate of Grace College with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has additional specialized training in EMDR therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
Jessica Connell, LPC, received her M.A. in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Grace College in 2020. She has expertise in trauma focused therapy and has completed post graduate work and training in EMDR trauma informed therapy. Jessica has experience working in private practice and in mental health/addiction residential treatment settings. Jessica is a graduate of Grace College with a Master’s Degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. She has additional specialized training in EMDR therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and dialectical behavioral therapy.
(847) 558-1862 x119 View (847) 558-1862 x119
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
We am trained in doing EMDR for trauma issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We am trained in doing EMDR for trauma issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers, finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward an Integrative approach and help our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Richard McCoy, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Richard McCoy
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), and specially trained in EMDR, and other modalities.
Do you feel like you have somehow became lost on the pathway of your life? Losing touch with those wonderful and unique parts of ourselves often leaves us feeling powerless and keeps us from moving forward to the bigger and better things we deserve. If you feel that the time to find yourself again is now, I would be happy to assist you to get back on the path to empowerment so you can get to where you're supposed to be.
I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC), and specially trained in EMDR, and other modalities.
Do you feel like you have somehow became lost on the pathway of your life? Losing touch with those wonderful and unique parts of ourselves often leaves us feeling powerless and keeps us from moving forward to the bigger and better things we deserve. If you feel that the time to find yourself again is now, I would be happy to assist you to get back on the path to empowerment so you can get to where you're supposed to be.
(815) 600-7999 View (815) 600-7999
Photo of Brian S. McCallum, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Brian S. McCallum
Counselor, MS, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in addition to Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), both of which can facilitate trauma resolution.
Many people go through times when they have trouble with even the simple tasks in life. Relationships, work, family and life purpose can become overwhelming at times. Imagine if you didn’t have to feel that way. Connect to your joy and sense of worth. Counseling is a conversation about thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and the collaboration between counselor and client to co-create goals for change. I will work with you to help you change the way you think and feel about yourself and the world. By exploring what you value we will collaborate to overcome the difficulty you have been facing.
I am trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) in addition to Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP), both of which can facilitate trauma resolution.
Many people go through times when they have trouble with even the simple tasks in life. Relationships, work, family and life purpose can become overwhelming at times. Imagine if you didn’t have to feel that way. Connect to your joy and sense of worth. Counseling is a conversation about thoughts, feelings, and behaviors and the collaboration between counselor and client to co-create goals for change. I will work with you to help you change the way you think and feel about yourself and the world. By exploring what you value we will collaborate to overcome the difficulty you have been facing.
(847) 553-4283 View (847) 553-4283
Photo of BZA Behavioral Health-LITH Office, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
BZA Behavioral Health-LITH Office
Counselor, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60012
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
BZA Behavioral Health is an inclusive, highly specialized group of clinicians dedicated to the emotional and behavioral wellness of the individuals and families we treat. We value the diversity & unique experiences of each person & it is our mission to have comprehensive & individualized types of treatment options to best match those personal needs. Services we offer include (but are not limited to) neuropsychological/psychological assessment, psychiatry, dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), EMDR, & art therapy. We work with clients of all ages to utilizing strength to cope with life's challenges.
(224) 813-3175 View (224) 813-3175
Photo of Hope & Healing Psychotherapy, P.C., Psychologist in Crystal Lake, IL
Hope & Healing Psychotherapy, P.C.
Psychologist, PsyD, LCP
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
At Hope & Healing Psychotherapy, we are happy to offer in-depth psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan. Not only do we provide empirically supported interventions such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), but we’re pleased to offer specialized treatment for trauma and sensory issues, such as the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), and EMDR. We support an integrative healing process that may include your spirituality, mindfulness, body work, yoga, nutrition, breath work, psychopharmacology, and connecting with the natural world.
At Hope & Healing Psychotherapy, we are happy to offer in-depth psychotherapy for individuals, couples, and families across the lifespan. Not only do we provide empirically supported interventions such as CBT (Cognitive Behavioral Therapy) and DBT (Dialectical Behavioral Therapy), but we’re pleased to offer specialized treatment for trauma and sensory issues, such as the Safe and Sound Protocol (SSP) Neurolinguistic Programming (NLP), and EMDR. We support an integrative healing process that may include your spirituality, mindfulness, body work, yoga, nutrition, breath work, psychopharmacology, and connecting with the natural world.
(224) 263-1527 View (224) 263-1527
Photo of Charles A Vorderer, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Charles A Vorderer
Licensed Professional Counselor, NCC, LPC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
These include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and EMDR therapy.
I enjoy working with all my clients. I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a myriad of issues. I have a particular expertise and understanding working with trauma issues. I have 15 years of police experience that allows me to better understand the needs of the service professionals (police, fire, nurses, military, etc.) clients and their families and how best to help them in a compassionate and caring way. The needs of these individuals can be unique. From substance abuse and anger control to depression and suicidal ideation, the stressors of these individuals require an understanding and knowledge, which I have.
These include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Dialectic Behavior Therapy, Solution-Focused Brief Therapy, and EMDR therapy.
I enjoy working with all my clients. I work with children, adolescents, and adults with a myriad of issues. I have a particular expertise and understanding working with trauma issues. I have 15 years of police experience that allows me to better understand the needs of the service professionals (police, fire, nurses, military, etc.) clients and their families and how best to help them in a compassionate and caring way. The needs of these individuals can be unique. From substance abuse and anger control to depression and suicidal ideation, the stressors of these individuals require an understanding and knowledge, which I have.
(779) 213-2638 View (779) 213-2638
Photo of Michelle Krc, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Michelle Krc
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MA, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
I also am certified in EMDR, which is a great tool to use if talking feels daunting.
Each person has their own unique story, and I genuinely want to hear about yours. It is our imperfections that make us beautiful, and I want to help give you the tools to see that in yourself. I specialize in working with complex trauma, which can present in many ways. Many of my clients struggle with big emotions and reactions, relationship issues, codependency, self-harming, shame, and low self-esteem. If you are feeling lost, hurt, scared, or hopeless, then I am so glad you are reaching out for help. I truly believe we are all capable and worthy of healing, growth, and compassion.
I also am certified in EMDR, which is a great tool to use if talking feels daunting.
Each person has their own unique story, and I genuinely want to hear about yours. It is our imperfections that make us beautiful, and I want to help give you the tools to see that in yourself. I specialize in working with complex trauma, which can present in many ways. Many of my clients struggle with big emotions and reactions, relationship issues, codependency, self-harming, shame, and low self-esteem. If you are feeling lost, hurt, scared, or hopeless, then I am so glad you are reaching out for help. I truly believe we are all capable and worthy of healing, growth, and compassion.
(847) 242-2369 View (847) 242-2369
Photo of Donna Brooks, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Donna Brooks
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, PLLC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60039
I am an EMDR practitioner and polyvagal and IFS informed therapist.
Supporting you on your journey of mental, emotional, and spiritual health is important to me. If you are dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, marital/relationship issues, parenting/familial issues, or loss, I will partner with you to work towards resolution. I provide an affirming and creative space in which to explore your challenges - aware that we are all perfectly imperfect and striving - and there is hope! "There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in." -Leonard Cohen
I am an EMDR practitioner and polyvagal and IFS informed therapist.
Supporting you on your journey of mental, emotional, and spiritual health is important to me. If you are dealing with anxiety, stress, depression, life transitions, marital/relationship issues, parenting/familial issues, or loss, I will partner with you to work towards resolution. I provide an affirming and creative space in which to explore your challenges - aware that we are all perfectly imperfect and striving - and there is hope! "There is a crack in everything. That's how the light gets in." -Leonard Cohen
(224) 479-1180 View (224) 479-1180
Photo of Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Innovative Counseling Partners, PLLC
Counselor, MA, LPC, LSW, LCPC, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
We are trained in doing EMDR for trauma issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
We are trained in doing EMDR for trauma issues.
Our life's work is helping clients achieve a better sense of self and happiness...more recently we've recognized that without good mental health providers finding this balance in life can be more difficult and stressful. As a result, we tend toward and Integrative approach and have our clients transform into the people they want to be. We see each client as an individual with many parts to their identity. Utilizing a holistic and systemic approach we help clients reintegrate the parts of themselves to function better as individuals and within their systems. Our focus tends toward a systems based approach using behavior methods.
(773) 312-3612 View (773) 312-3612
Photo of Center for Therapeutic Services-Crystal Lake , Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Center for Therapeutic Services-Crystal Lake
Counselor, PsyD, LCPC
Not Verified Not Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
At Center for Therapeutic Services and Psychodiagnostics, we are committed to helping you with the most comprehensive, holistic services that are established in evidence-based treatment. You are unique and your circumstances are unique! We will apply a broad range of dynamic assessments that are individualized and tailored to fit your unique needs. We take a creative approach to treating complex mental health problems both on an individual and group level.
At Center for Therapeutic Services and Psychodiagnostics, we are committed to helping you with the most comprehensive, holistic services that are established in evidence-based treatment. You are unique and your circumstances are unique! We will apply a broad range of dynamic assessments that are individualized and tailored to fit your unique needs. We take a creative approach to treating complex mental health problems both on an individual and group level.
(815) 240-8905 View (815) 240-8905
Photo of Angela Marie Cord, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Crystal Lake, IL
Angela Marie Cord
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60012  (Online Only)
I am a clinical therapist committed to helping individuals navigate the tough times that life throws our ways. My work focuses on challenging the negative thinking patterns that add to depression and anxiety. I believe in a collaborative approach to help clients reach their full potentials. I am passionate about helping individuals who struggle with depression and anxiety. If you would like to schedule an appointment please reach out. I look forward to hearing from you.
I am a clinical therapist committed to helping individuals navigate the tough times that life throws our ways. My work focuses on challenging the negative thinking patterns that add to depression and anxiety. I believe in a collaborative approach to help clients reach their full potentials. I am passionate about helping individuals who struggle with depression and anxiety. If you would like to schedule an appointment please reach out. I look forward to hearing from you.
(847) 242-2342 View (847) 242-2342
Photo of Center for Therapeutic Svcs & Psychodiagnostics, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Center for Therapeutic Svcs & Psychodiagnostics
Counselor
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
At Center for Therapeutic Services and Psychodiagnostics, we are committed to helping you with the most comprehensive, holistic services that are established in evidence-based treatment. You are unique and your circumstances are unique! We will apply a broad range of dynamic assessments that are individualized and tailored to fit your unique needs. We take a creative approach to treating complex mental health problems both on an individual and group level.
At Center for Therapeutic Services and Psychodiagnostics, we are committed to helping you with the most comprehensive, holistic services that are established in evidence-based treatment. You are unique and your circumstances are unique! We will apply a broad range of dynamic assessments that are individualized and tailored to fit your unique needs. We take a creative approach to treating complex mental health problems both on an individual and group level.
(779) 704-4110 View (779) 704-4110
Photo of Simona Stanila, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Simona Stanila
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Education and Training: Mrs. Simona Stanila received her Bachelor's Degree in Education, Literature and Languages from the University of Bucharest, Romania and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MACL) from Argosy University, Schaumburg, Illinois. She is currently working towards her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy. D. ) at Argosy University, Chicago, Illinois. During her Practicum for her Master's Degree, Mrs. Simona Stanila worked at the Streamwood Behavioral Health Center in Illinois as a part of the Advanced Crisis Therapy (ACT) unit.
Education and Training: Mrs. Simona Stanila received her Bachelor's Degree in Education, Literature and Languages from the University of Bucharest, Romania and her Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology (MACL) from Argosy University, Schaumburg, Illinois. She is currently working towards her Doctoral Degree in Clinical Psychology (Psy. D. ) at Argosy University, Chicago, Illinois. During her Practicum for her Master's Degree, Mrs. Simona Stanila worked at the Streamwood Behavioral Health Center in Illinois as a part of the Advanced Crisis Therapy (ACT) unit.
(224) 249-6051 View (224) 249-6051
Photo of Mindful Changes Counseling Services, PLLC, Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Mindful Changes Counseling Services, PLLC
Counselor, LCPC, CADC, MACC
Verified Verified
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Currently Accepting New Clients! Seeking emotional help can be a confusing and intimidating process for anyone, not to mention adding managing a pandemic. It is my mission to help you feel comfortable with the therapist-client relationship, focus on your needs, assist you in discovering your personal strengths, and helping to overcome/heal from what you struggle with. I will meet you where you are at, and work with you to accomplish your goals and achieve success!
Currently Accepting New Clients! Seeking emotional help can be a confusing and intimidating process for anyone, not to mention adding managing a pandemic. It is my mission to help you feel comfortable with the therapist-client relationship, focus on your needs, assist you in discovering your personal strengths, and helping to overcome/heal from what you struggle with. I will meet you where you are at, and work with you to accomplish your goals and achieve success!
(224) 288-0616 View (224) 288-0616
Photo of Kavita C Bosamiya, Licensed Professional Counselor in Crystal Lake, IL
Kavita C Bosamiya
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Crystal Lake, IL 60039
I believe that we all have an inherent ability to heal deeply, oftentimes we just need a safe environment to begin to open and step on this healing journey. When we realize that disoriented parts of ourselves cause imbalance and problems, the awareness itself leads the way to becoming whole and come home to ourselves. As we move through the story of life in time and space, we carry the past to the present and the present to the future. Our bodies – physical and subtle hold so much of our stories beneath the surface. My goal, using somatic-based approaches, is to help you reattune to our existential wisdom and bring lasting change.
I believe that we all have an inherent ability to heal deeply, oftentimes we just need a safe environment to begin to open and step on this healing journey. When we realize that disoriented parts of ourselves cause imbalance and problems, the awareness itself leads the way to becoming whole and come home to ourselves. As we move through the story of life in time and space, we carry the past to the present and the present to the future. Our bodies – physical and subtle hold so much of our stories beneath the surface. My goal, using somatic-based approaches, is to help you reattune to our existential wisdom and bring lasting change.
(815) 384-4549 View (815) 384-4549

See more therapy options for Crystal Lake

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.