EMDR Therapists in Winfield, IL

Photo of Susan L Garrison - Susan L. Garrison, LCSW, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Susan L. Garrison, LCSW
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
I am EMDR Certified (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), which is a scientifically researched method to help people build strengths, shift negative belief systems and resolve trauma.
Are you ready for change? Are you experiencing anxiety, relationship strain or irritability? Just feeling stuck? I have a heart for encouraging others to develop a deeper level of personal, social, spiritual & professional growth in their lives. It would be my privilege to support you as you create change and experience healing in your life. You can find inner peace and experience deeper satisfaction in your life & in your relationships. You can learn more effective ways to regulate emotions and resolve things like chronic anxiety, depression, relational trauma, codependency, grief/loss, & spiritual issues. Change is possible!
I am EMDR Certified (Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing), which is a scientifically researched method to help people build strengths, shift negative belief systems and resolve trauma.
Are you ready for change? Are you experiencing anxiety, relationship strain or irritability? Just feeling stuck? I have a heart for encouraging others to develop a deeper level of personal, social, spiritual & professional growth in their lives. It would be my privilege to support you as you create change and experience healing in your life. You can find inner peace and experience deeper satisfaction in your life & in your relationships. You can learn more effective ways to regulate emotions and resolve things like chronic anxiety, depression, relational trauma, codependency, grief/loss, & spiritual issues. Change is possible!
(630) 448-6417 View (630) 448-6417
Photo of Angela Lynn Dechant, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Angela Lynn Dechant
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
Using EMDR, Brainspotting, and CBT techniques, I can assist in reprocessing past experiences, regulating emotions, and shifting negative beliefs.
If anxiety, low self-esteem, or tough relationships weigh you down, I'm here for you. You need a safe space to tackle these challenges, learn new skills to cope with everyday stressors, rebuild confidence, and understand your relationships better. Together, let's work on managing anxiety, boosting your self-worth, and fostering healthier connections. You want relief from constant worry, a stronger sense of self, and fulfilling relationships. Let's team up to navigate this journey toward inner peace and a more fulfilling life. You don't have to do this alone.
Using EMDR, Brainspotting, and CBT techniques, I can assist in reprocessing past experiences, regulating emotions, and shifting negative beliefs.
If anxiety, low self-esteem, or tough relationships weigh you down, I'm here for you. You need a safe space to tackle these challenges, learn new skills to cope with everyday stressors, rebuild confidence, and understand your relationships better. Together, let's work on managing anxiety, boosting your self-worth, and fostering healthier connections. You want relief from constant worry, a stronger sense of self, and fulfilling relationships. Let's team up to navigate this journey toward inner peace and a more fulfilling life. You don't have to do this alone.
(630) 523-8124 View (630) 523-8124
Photo of Linda Cunningham, LCPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Linda Cunningham
Licensed Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
Linda embraces the use of a variety of therapeutic approaches to assist clients with growth including, but not limited to, EMDR, RRT and current study in Polyvagal Theory to help us better understand and embrace the role of the nervous system in both the therapy process, and our daily lives.
Linda K Cunningham is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been in the mental health field since 2003. Linda’s focus in therapy is on individuality. You are unique and the therapeutic process should absolutely celebrate that uniqueness. Well-being isn’t only about decreasing existing struggles; it should also build on your current strengths and develop new ones to help create the future you desire.
Linda embraces the use of a variety of therapeutic approaches to assist clients with growth including, but not limited to, EMDR, RRT and current study in Polyvagal Theory to help us better understand and embrace the role of the nervous system in both the therapy process, and our daily lives.
Linda K Cunningham is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Illinois who has been in the mental health field since 2003. Linda’s focus in therapy is on individuality. You are unique and the therapeutic process should absolutely celebrate that uniqueness. Well-being isn’t only about decreasing existing struggles; it should also build on your current strengths and develop new ones to help create the future you desire.
(331) 216-1321 View (331) 216-1321
Photo of Eric Hoyme, MPH, MA, LCPC, LCMHC, Counselor
Eric Hoyme
Counselor, MPH, MA, LCPC, LCMHC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
Unlike other prominent therapies for PTSD, EMDR Therapy does not require writing or rehearsing a trauma narrative.
Welcome! My name is Eric Hoyme and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in treating trauma and PTSD. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 13 years and have worked in psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and private practice. I am an EMDR Therapy specialist. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is a gold standard treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that was developed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. It involves attending to both the past and the present in order to resolve problematic emotions.
Unlike other prominent therapies for PTSD, EMDR Therapy does not require writing or rehearsing a trauma narrative.
Welcome! My name is Eric Hoyme and I am a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor specializing in treating trauma and PTSD. I have been practicing psychotherapy for 13 years and have worked in psychiatric hospitals, substance abuse treatment centers, and private practice. I am an EMDR Therapy specialist. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy is a gold standard treatment for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that was developed in the late 1980’s and early 1990’s. It involves attending to both the past and the present in order to resolve problematic emotions.
(224) 434-3168 View (224) 434-3168
Photo of Rachel Rosales, MA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Rachel Rosales
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
As a therapist who specializes in complex trauma, I primarily work from a CBT, ACT, DBT and EMDR framework.
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and compassionate space to heal! I am passionate about building healthy relationships with my clients. I believe in creating a safe, stable space that will allow you to express yourself and explore your concerns fully and authentically. I specialize in working with clients dealing with mood disorders, neurodiversity, and complex trauma. I regularly work with individuals who have felt let down, misunderstood, or unheard by the traditional healthcare system. I am passionate about and deeply committed to providing neurodivergent-affirming and diversity-affirming care for all of my clients.
As a therapist who specializes in complex trauma, I primarily work from a CBT, ACT, DBT and EMDR framework.
Everyone deserves a non-judgmental and compassionate space to heal! I am passionate about building healthy relationships with my clients. I believe in creating a safe, stable space that will allow you to express yourself and explore your concerns fully and authentically. I specialize in working with clients dealing with mood disorders, neurodiversity, and complex trauma. I regularly work with individuals who have felt let down, misunderstood, or unheard by the traditional healthcare system. I am passionate about and deeply committed to providing neurodivergent-affirming and diversity-affirming care for all of my clients.
(331) 253-4638 View (331) 253-4638
Photo of Michelle Rogers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Michelle Rogers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
Alone, terrified, and worried that your life will never change? Ready for a change but apprehensive about the process? Sometimes getting help extends beyond family/friends. Addiction counseling includes addressing co-existing issues such as family, relationships, employment, education, spirituality, physical/mental health and legal concerns. Healing and growth begins with a collaborative, compassionate, yet direct approach to change. I walk with you as you work to gain self-awareness, self-esteem, and empowerment. I assist clients in finding hidden strengths, so they can overcome their challenges. My specialty includes addictions, co-occurring disorders - depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, etc.
Alone, terrified, and worried that your life will never change? Ready for a change but apprehensive about the process? Sometimes getting help extends beyond family/friends. Addiction counseling includes addressing co-existing issues such as family, relationships, employment, education, spirituality, physical/mental health and legal concerns. Healing and growth begins with a collaborative, compassionate, yet direct approach to change. I walk with you as you work to gain self-awareness, self-esteem, and empowerment. I assist clients in finding hidden strengths, so they can overcome their challenges. My specialty includes addictions, co-occurring disorders - depression, anxiety, trauma, grief, anger, etc.
(815) 390-9023 View (815) 390-9023
Photo of Mari Skura, LCPC, Counselor
Mari Skura
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Winfield, IL 60190
First and foremost I am a journey-mate on this wild and crazy path we call life. I am passionate about helping myself and others tap into our innate goodness and the grandeur of our spirits. More than that, I desire for all of us to overcome fear and conditioning so that we can live into the fullness of our true selves. My work as a personal therapist, meditation teacher, and yoga instructor is geared to help nurture my fellow journey mates into their highest soul essence. My style is compassionate, empowering and directive.
First and foremost I am a journey-mate on this wild and crazy path we call life. I am passionate about helping myself and others tap into our innate goodness and the grandeur of our spirits. More than that, I desire for all of us to overcome fear and conditioning so that we can live into the fullness of our true selves. My work as a personal therapist, meditation teacher, and yoga instructor is geared to help nurture my fellow journey mates into their highest soul essence. My style is compassionate, empowering and directive.
(630) 599-8352 View (630) 599-8352
Photo of Sarah Larimore, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Sarah Larimore
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
How many times have you heard, “why can’t you just stop?” Do you find yourself wishing those around you would attempt to understand your experience and hear you? Addiction, anxiety, and depression are already so isolating and we often have a difficult time understanding our own behavior without trying to explain it to family and friends. We feel stuck, alone, frustrated, and misunderstood. Imagine what it would be like to identify the root cause of your addiction and start treating the source while learning coping skills for managing addictive behavior, anxiety, and depression.
How many times have you heard, “why can’t you just stop?” Do you find yourself wishing those around you would attempt to understand your experience and hear you? Addiction, anxiety, and depression are already so isolating and we often have a difficult time understanding our own behavior without trying to explain it to family and friends. We feel stuck, alone, frustrated, and misunderstood. Imagine what it would be like to identify the root cause of your addiction and start treating the source while learning coping skills for managing addictive behavior, anxiety, and depression.
(630) 333-4016 View (630) 333-4016
Photo of Kasia Tomanek, LPC, NCC, MA, Licensed Professional Counselor
Kasia Tomanek
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, NCC, MA
Verified Verified
Winfield, IL 60190
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs and caring for yourself? Are you feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, and relationship problems? I strongly believe that, as individuals, we need to prioritize our own well-being to live a full and rewarding lives. Helping clients discover and access self-care and self-compassion as they begin their journey in therapy is a passion of mine. Beginnings are never easy, but I am here to walk alongside you in this journey and will be here to support and guide you through this rewarding and life changing process.
Are you struggling to prioritize your own needs and caring for yourself? Are you feeling the weight of depression, anxiety, and relationship problems? I strongly believe that, as individuals, we need to prioritize our own well-being to live a full and rewarding lives. Helping clients discover and access self-care and self-compassion as they begin their journey in therapy is a passion of mine. Beginnings are never easy, but I am here to walk alongside you in this journey and will be here to support and guide you through this rewarding and life changing process.
(630) 538-7405 View (630) 538-7405

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Rhonda Kelloway, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Rhonda Kelloway
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
11 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
In-person and telehealth sessions available. Falling apart? Stuck? At a crossroads? I can help. We start where you are, and map out a path to where you want to be, tackling the obstacles standing in the way of your thriving. My techniques include EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, research-backed therapies that often work for people who have made slow or no progress with other therapies. I'm also trained in several types of somatic touch, which can accelerate your progress if you choose to use touch. My goal is to get you back to your best life as quickly as possible!
In-person and telehealth sessions available. Falling apart? Stuck? At a crossroads? I can help. We start where you are, and map out a path to where you want to be, tackling the obstacles standing in the way of your thriving. My techniques include EMDR and Somatic Experiencing, research-backed therapies that often work for people who have made slow or no progress with other therapies. I'm also trained in several types of somatic touch, which can accelerate your progress if you choose to use touch. My goal is to get you back to your best life as quickly as possible!
(630) 708-2994 View (630) 708-2994
Photo of Erin C Davis, LCSW, MSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Erin C Davis
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187  (Online Only)
I am EMDR trained and Internal Family Systems basic trained, but draw upon a variety of treatment methods.
Each of our lives contain periods of both great suffering and great joy. Most of these experiences are unpredictable and beyond our control, but there are resources that can help us reduce our emotional suffering and experience more wellbeing. My hope is to provide a gracious space for clients to authentically navigate the complexities of life and to support them as they access their own inner wisdom. This work often requires sifting through messages we have internalized over the years. I’m here to support my clients in this discovery and healing process and to help them develop concrete resources to utilize in real life.
I am EMDR trained and Internal Family Systems basic trained, but draw upon a variety of treatment methods.
Each of our lives contain periods of both great suffering and great joy. Most of these experiences are unpredictable and beyond our control, but there are resources that can help us reduce our emotional suffering and experience more wellbeing. My hope is to provide a gracious space for clients to authentically navigate the complexities of life and to support them as they access their own inner wisdom. This work often requires sifting through messages we have internalized over the years. I’m here to support my clients in this discovery and healing process and to help them develop concrete resources to utilize in real life.
(630) 454-9778 View (630) 454-9778
Photo of Torus Therapy Llc - Torus Therapy LLC, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Torus Therapy LLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60189
Torus Therapy guides you in self healing to uncover your life's purpose. We understand that life can be a struggle, and sometimes it is hard to make it through. Our purpose sometimes gets clouded by challenges, and you may be fighting to see what your purpose truely is. You may have something that recently happened that you are struggling with, or may be you have been struggling for a long time. We all have purpose, and we are here to help you reclaim it. We help you through guidance, self discovery, and helping you find your own inner strength. We are trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, and Prolonged CBT.
Torus Therapy guides you in self healing to uncover your life's purpose. We understand that life can be a struggle, and sometimes it is hard to make it through. Our purpose sometimes gets clouded by challenges, and you may be fighting to see what your purpose truely is. You may have something that recently happened that you are struggling with, or may be you have been struggling for a long time. We all have purpose, and we are here to help you reclaim it. We help you through guidance, self discovery, and helping you find your own inner strength. We are trained in CBT, ACT, DBT, EMDR, and Prolonged CBT.
(630) 206-4608 View (630) 206-4608
Photo of Angie Young, LCSW, EMDR, RYT200, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Angie Young
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, EMDR, RYT200
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
EMDR and Trauma Informed Yoga also allow an alternative to traditional talk therapy.
I believe healing is possible through an invitation to connect with your body, emotions, and thoughts. To build understanding about how your experiences, relationships, and culture have impacted your life. I seek to be a companion in the process of sharing your personal story as you sift through the well of your entire lived experience to discover your authentic voice. Together, we will use body based interventions, emotionally focused work, and brain-based approaches like EMDR to reclaim the chapters of your life where difficult experiences stole your sense of who you are, and nurture growth, healing, and overcome loneliness.
EMDR and Trauma Informed Yoga also allow an alternative to traditional talk therapy.
I believe healing is possible through an invitation to connect with your body, emotions, and thoughts. To build understanding about how your experiences, relationships, and culture have impacted your life. I seek to be a companion in the process of sharing your personal story as you sift through the well of your entire lived experience to discover your authentic voice. Together, we will use body based interventions, emotionally focused work, and brain-based approaches like EMDR to reclaim the chapters of your life where difficult experiences stole your sense of who you are, and nurture growth, healing, and overcome loneliness.
(630) 524-4362 View (630) 524-4362
Photo of David S Panahi - Panahi Counseling, P.C., MA, NCC, LCPC, EMDR, CADC, Counselor
Panahi Counseling, P.C.
Counselor, MA, NCC, LCPC, EMDR, CADC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
We also offer EMDR therapy.
We understand how difficult it can be to seek help for mental health issues. That is why our team at Panahi Counseling is committed to meeting you where you are and encouraging you. We never use shame as a motivator because we believe in providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment that supports healing. Each of our therapists has their own specialties and interests. Our shared commitment to walking alongside our clients on their path to healing is what brings us together.
We also offer EMDR therapy.
We understand how difficult it can be to seek help for mental health issues. That is why our team at Panahi Counseling is committed to meeting you where you are and encouraging you. We never use shame as a motivator because we believe in providing a safe, nonjudgmental environment that supports healing. Each of our therapists has their own specialties and interests. Our shared commitment to walking alongside our clients on their path to healing is what brings us together.
(630) 686-7977 View (630) 686-7977
Photo of Joe Glim - Labyrinth Counseling and Consulting, LCSW, SEP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Labyrinth Counseling and Consulting
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, SEP
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
I specialize in treating Trauma (single event, long-term and attachment) with experiential therapies, including EMDR & Somatic Experiencing. These interventions recognize the need to go beyond changing your thoughts and focus on helping people regulate the body sensations and emotions that continue to be experienced. For example: a person may know that a traumatic event is over and yet continue to feel the emotion of anxiety and the body sensation of muscle tension (never truly relaxing or feeling safe). This can activate an impulse to run away from situations, become angry/defensive or shut down (depressed/ avoidant/dissociative)
I specialize in treating Trauma (single event, long-term and attachment) with experiential therapies, including EMDR & Somatic Experiencing. These interventions recognize the need to go beyond changing your thoughts and focus on helping people regulate the body sensations and emotions that continue to be experienced. For example: a person may know that a traumatic event is over and yet continue to feel the emotion of anxiety and the body sensation of muscle tension (never truly relaxing or feeling safe). This can activate an impulse to run away from situations, become angry/defensive or shut down (depressed/ avoidant/dissociative)
(630) 504-0254 View (630) 504-0254
Photo of Lauren Miller - Dupage Counseling Associates, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Dupage Counseling Associates
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
We practice CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, family therapy, and marital therapy.
At Dupage Counseling Associates, we provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space to allow clients to share their story. We have worked with several individuals who are struggling with a life transition, grief/loss, trauma, relationship difficulty, anxiety, or depression. The most difficult part of therapy is making that first call. We are available to answer any questions or concerns you might have before making the decision to start the therapy process.
We practice CBT, EMDR, mindfulness, family therapy, and marital therapy.
At Dupage Counseling Associates, we provide a compassionate and non-judgmental space to allow clients to share their story. We have worked with several individuals who are struggling with a life transition, grief/loss, trauma, relationship difficulty, anxiety, or depression. The most difficult part of therapy is making that first call. We are available to answer any questions or concerns you might have before making the decision to start the therapy process.
(630) 426-7675 View (630) 426-7675
Photo of Julia Schofield, LCPC, NCC, MEd
Julia Schofield
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, NCC, MEd
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
I work from an eclectic trauma informed approach, integrating DBT, CBT, EMDR and Solution Focused techniques based on your unique needs.
I believe that you are the expert on yourself. As such, it's my job is to help you discover tools & strengths that already exist within; support you in letting go of strategies & narratives that are no longer beneficial; and together, work towards developing new insights, find healing, instill healthier core beliefs, and practice new skills to assist you in meeting your goals. Whether you are looking to build up your sense of self worth & confidence, strengthen your relationships, process a trauma, or improve your ability to navigate every day stressors, I am here to guide you through the process.
I work from an eclectic trauma informed approach, integrating DBT, CBT, EMDR and Solution Focused techniques based on your unique needs.
I believe that you are the expert on yourself. As such, it's my job is to help you discover tools & strengths that already exist within; support you in letting go of strategies & narratives that are no longer beneficial; and together, work towards developing new insights, find healing, instill healthier core beliefs, and practice new skills to assist you in meeting your goals. Whether you are looking to build up your sense of self worth & confidence, strengthen your relationships, process a trauma, or improve your ability to navigate every day stressors, I am here to guide you through the process.
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Photo of Ashley Ullyot, LMFT, Marriage & Family Therapist
Ashley Ullyot
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60187
I am being trained in EMDR.
I believe that each person is deserving of fulfillment in every relationship. My ideal client is wanting to be more aware of relational patterns so that they can recreate the moments they desire most. My goal is to help people feel heard and accepted within their relationships. I do this through creating an environment where differences are appreciated and authentic choices can be identified to maintain connection.
I am being trained in EMDR.
I believe that each person is deserving of fulfillment in every relationship. My ideal client is wanting to be more aware of relational patterns so that they can recreate the moments they desire most. My goal is to help people feel heard and accepted within their relationships. I do this through creating an environment where differences are appreciated and authentic choices can be identified to maintain connection.
(331) 207-9184 View (331) 207-9184
Photo of Alina Trinidad, LPC, CADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Alina Trinidad
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, CADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Wheaton, IL 60189
I have also been trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am passionate about working with individuals who are dedicating time to their personal development and addressing their challenges. My ideal clients are open to growth and are interested in learning more about themselves. They are ready to confront challenges and learn from the past to improve their futures, and they are committed to the therapy process just as much as I am. Whether we are using EMDR to address trauma or setting goals related to substance use, my ideal clients are ready to work hard to heal, learn, and grow.
I have also been trained in Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR).
I am passionate about working with individuals who are dedicating time to their personal development and addressing their challenges. My ideal clients are open to growth and are interested in learning more about themselves. They are ready to confront challenges and learn from the past to improve their futures, and they are committed to the therapy process just as much as I am. Whether we are using EMDR to address trauma or setting goals related to substance use, my ideal clients are ready to work hard to heal, learn, and grow.
(630) 526-7784 View (630) 526-7784
Photo of David Seisser, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
David Seisser
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Wheaton, IL 60187
As a trauma-informed clinician, I operate from different therapeutic styles including EMDR, DBT, CBT, EFT and I am client centered.
Hey there, my name is David! My aim is to create a comforting and compassionate space for each of my clients as we walk together toward finding balance physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Therapy often includes exploring your story and where you have been. Unfortunately, this can be really difficult at times and this is really where I come in. My job is to create a space for you to feel empowered to explore your past, learn from it, and create new ways forwards. You don't have to settle for your old normal. I want to empower you to create a new normal.
As a trauma-informed clinician, I operate from different therapeutic styles including EMDR, DBT, CBT, EFT and I am client centered.
Hey there, my name is David! My aim is to create a comforting and compassionate space for each of my clients as we walk together toward finding balance physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Therapy often includes exploring your story and where you have been. Unfortunately, this can be really difficult at times and this is really where I come in. My job is to create a space for you to feel empowered to explore your past, learn from it, and create new ways forwards. You don't have to settle for your old normal. I want to empower you to create a new normal.
(630) 454-1926 View (630) 454-1926

See more therapy options for Winfield

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.