EMDR Therapists in Winnebago, IL

Photo of Julie A Logan, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnebago, IL
Julie A Logan
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Winnebago, IL 61088
I enjoy working with individuals that are ready to do something different. Often a person gets stuck in feeling the insanity of doing the same thing over and over again waiting for things to change. Only by making a change in your behavior can you expect a different outcome, some people need support to make a change that is lasting.
I enjoy working with individuals that are ready to do something different. Often a person gets stuck in feeling the insanity of doing the same thing over and over again waiting for things to change. Only by making a change in your behavior can you expect a different outcome, some people need support to make a change that is lasting.
(815) 768-2053 View (815) 768-2053
Photo of Live Well 815, Counselor in Winnebago, IL
Live Well 815
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Winnebago, IL 61088
Are you feeling overwhelmed by sadness or anxiety? Overwhelmed by family issues? Gripped by job stressors? Are you struggling with a divorce? Having conflicts in your relationship or going through a break-up? Getting triggered by old traumas? The people that I work with want more from life: joy, peace, and satisfaction. I can help you achieve your goals & find a better way of living.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by sadness or anxiety? Overwhelmed by family issues? Gripped by job stressors? Are you struggling with a divorce? Having conflicts in your relationship or going through a break-up? Getting triggered by old traumas? The people that I work with want more from life: joy, peace, and satisfaction. I can help you achieve your goals & find a better way of living.
(815) 745-4038 View (815) 745-4038

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Here & Now Mental Wellness, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Winnebago, IL
Here & Now Mental Wellness
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, NCMHC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a wellness hub of solutions to each client’s unique needs. Our Wellness Hub of professionals incorporates evidence-based practices. Everyone's Hub at Here & Now is unique; it may involve Psychiatry, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Talk therapy, Neurobiofeedback/brain training, EMDR, Art therapy, VR exposure therapy, Movement, Breath, Trauma Release and Somatic work. We also offer support for overcoming substance abuse issues.
At Here & Now our goal is to help each client discover the joy of feeling comfortable in their skin and knowing their purpose in life. Our clinical specialists thoughtfully and compassionately tailor a wellness hub of solutions to each client’s unique needs. Our Wellness Hub of professionals incorporates evidence-based practices. Everyone's Hub at Here & Now is unique; it may involve Psychiatry, Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy, Talk therapy, Neurobiofeedback/brain training, EMDR, Art therapy, VR exposure therapy, Movement, Breath, Trauma Release and Somatic work. We also offer support for overcoming substance abuse issues.
(847) 396-9541 View (847) 396-9541
Photo of Katherine Wheeler, Licensed Professional Counselor in Winnebago, IL
Katherine Wheeler
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LPC, EMDR-T
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
I guide you through a transformative journey of healing and growth using evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, CBT, trauma-focused therapy, and skill-building strategies.
Hi, I’m Katherine Wheeler, Are you a high achiever or a perfectionist who has experienced childhood trauma? Do you feel stuck in a cycle of stress, pressure, and self-criticism? Do you want to break free from the past and create a life of balance, fulfillment, and authentic success? I understand how trauma and stress can fuel your drive for excellence and also create immense pressure and self-criticism. I help you break free from the past, balance your expectations, and redefine success on your terms.
I guide you through a transformative journey of healing and growth using evidence-based techniques such as EMDR, CBT, trauma-focused therapy, and skill-building strategies.
Hi, I’m Katherine Wheeler, Are you a high achiever or a perfectionist who has experienced childhood trauma? Do you feel stuck in a cycle of stress, pressure, and self-criticism? Do you want to break free from the past and create a life of balance, fulfillment, and authentic success? I understand how trauma and stress can fuel your drive for excellence and also create immense pressure and self-criticism. I help you break free from the past, balance your expectations, and redefine success on your terms.
(872) 274-4561 View (872) 274-4561
Photo of Amanda Martinez (Talkspace), Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnebago, IL
Amanda Martinez (Talkspace)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LSW, MBA, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61106
I offer a variety of treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and EMDR.
Counselor at the Veterans Affairs, Quad Cities Veteran Center. Providing Veterans, and their family members with non-judgmental, caring, and compassionate treatment is my passion. Providing empowerment, validation, client-centered therapy and assisting clients with self-advocacy. My mission is to help clients become the best version of themselves, whatever that may be. U.S. Army Combat Veteran, Retired, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Trauma Professional, and fully trained in EMDR. 1st generation immigrant (Canada) and naturalized citizen.
I offer a variety of treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), Mindfulness, and EMDR.
Counselor at the Veterans Affairs, Quad Cities Veteran Center. Providing Veterans, and their family members with non-judgmental, caring, and compassionate treatment is my passion. Providing empowerment, validation, client-centered therapy and assisting clients with self-advocacy. My mission is to help clients become the best version of themselves, whatever that may be. U.S. Army Combat Veteran, Retired, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Trauma Professional, and fully trained in EMDR. 1st generation immigrant (Canada) and naturalized citizen.
Photo of Jason Peckels, Counselor in Winnebago, IL
Jason Peckels
Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
I have received advanced training in Cognitive-Behavioral therapies as well as EMDR.
My approach benefits those who struggle with depressed moods, wish to confront fears that limit their ability to fully experience life, are burdened by the memories of violence and abuse, want to overcome their loss, have unresolved issues regarding spirituality, and wish to connect more meaningfully with others. My role as your counselor is to help you in navigating challenges and obstacles life has brought your way. I provide a safe and supportive environment where, using empirically supported techniques and our own creativity, we develop insights and solutions to personal difficulties.
I have received advanced training in Cognitive-Behavioral therapies as well as EMDR.
My approach benefits those who struggle with depressed moods, wish to confront fears that limit their ability to fully experience life, are burdened by the memories of violence and abuse, want to overcome their loss, have unresolved issues regarding spirituality, and wish to connect more meaningfully with others. My role as your counselor is to help you in navigating challenges and obstacles life has brought your way. I provide a safe and supportive environment where, using empirically supported techniques and our own creativity, we develop insights and solutions to personal difficulties.
(815) 200-9980 View (815) 200-9980
Photo of Paige T Christian, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnebago, IL
Paige T Christian
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, CFTP
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61104  (Online Only)
I also provide EMDR intensives for trauma recovery work and 1-2 day couples intensives using Gottman Method.
Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, or depression? Do you want to feel better and meet with someone who can hold space and help? I have over a decade worth of experience working with women who are wanting to heal from past hurts and live with more confidence, clarity, and purpose.
I also provide EMDR intensives for trauma recovery work and 1-2 day couples intensives using Gottman Method.
Are you experiencing stress, anxiety, trauma, or depression? Do you want to feel better and meet with someone who can hold space and help? I have over a decade worth of experience working with women who are wanting to heal from past hurts and live with more confidence, clarity, and purpose.
(309) 928-1106 View (309) 928-1106
Photo of Kayla A. Clayton, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnebago, IL
Kayla A. Clayton
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW, APSW
Verified Verified
Byron, IL 61010
I believe in an integrated approach to evidenced based therapy including CBT, Solution Focused, Client Centered, Group Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and trained in EMDR Therapy to teach clients how to overcome emotional distress.
If you are feeling sad, alone, hopeless, anxious, overwhelmed or a mix of emotions, I am here to help! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois and an Advanced Practice Social Worker in the State of Wisconsin. I work with individuals, groups, and couples who are having a wide range of emotions or concerns. I enjoy working with a diverse population including young children, adolescents, adults and geriatric individuals. I also provide therapeutic services in the homes of older adults who are homebound and in retirement facilities.
I believe in an integrated approach to evidenced based therapy including CBT, Solution Focused, Client Centered, Group Therapy, Psychodynamic Therapy and trained in EMDR Therapy to teach clients how to overcome emotional distress.
If you are feeling sad, alone, hopeless, anxious, overwhelmed or a mix of emotions, I am here to help! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the State of Illinois and an Advanced Practice Social Worker in the State of Wisconsin. I work with individuals, groups, and couples who are having a wide range of emotions or concerns. I enjoy working with a diverse population including young children, adolescents, adults and geriatric individuals. I also provide therapeutic services in the homes of older adults who are homebound and in retirement facilities.
(815) 669-4250 View (815) 669-4250
Photo of Alix Rose Kavran, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Winnebago, IL
Alix Rose Kavran
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LPC, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61104
I am specially trained in EMDR therapy, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TF-CBT, and other treatment modalities.
“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.” — Fred Rogers. As your therapist, my focus is to provide a safe space for healing and personal growth. I understand that a felt sense of safety takes time and as your support in the process, I will guide you through at your own pace. I have been in the field for over a decade and have experience working with individuals experiencing PTSD, adjustment to life changes, grief, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other Mental Health concerns.
I am specially trained in EMDR therapy, Brainspotting, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, TF-CBT, and other treatment modalities.
“Anything that’s human is mentionable, and anything that is mentionable can be more manageable. When we can talk about our feelings, they become less overwhelming, less upsetting, and less scary.” — Fred Rogers. As your therapist, my focus is to provide a safe space for healing and personal growth. I understand that a felt sense of safety takes time and as your support in the process, I will guide you through at your own pace. I have been in the field for over a decade and have experience working with individuals experiencing PTSD, adjustment to life changes, grief, depression, anxiety, ADHD and other Mental Health concerns.
(815) 893-2815 View (815) 893-2815
Photo of Erin Grenke, Counselor in Winnebago, IL
Erin Grenke
Counselor, LCPC, LPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61107
The good news is you do not have to worry or struggle alone. Let's work together to create positive changes in your life that can endure even when times get tough. Using evidence-based treatments, including EMDR and DBT, I can help you work through trauma and PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety, and family or relationship issues. I am also trained to use the developmental needs meeting psychotherapy approach (DNMS).
The good news is you do not have to worry or struggle alone. Let's work together to create positive changes in your life that can endure even when times get tough. Using evidence-based treatments, including EMDR and DBT, I can help you work through trauma and PTSD, as well as depression, anxiety, and family or relationship issues. I am also trained to use the developmental needs meeting psychotherapy approach (DNMS).
(815) 317-5014 View (815) 317-5014
Photo of Rachel Cooper, Licensed Social Worker in Winnebago, IL
Rachel Cooper
Licensed Social Worker, MSW, LSW, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
I use a variety of evidence-based techniques focused on strength and skill building, and my secret weapon is EMDR, a powerful intervention that helps you process traumatic memories, negative experiences, and rewire your brain for positive change.
Hi, I'm Rachel Cooper, a compassionate and dedicated mental health therapist who specializes in helping you overcome what’s holding you back. If you're dealing with anxiety, panic, phobias, PTSD, or trauma, you might feel like you're stuck in a rut. You might feel like they're interfering with relationships, work, hobbies, or happiness. I'm ready to help you break free from their grip and reclaim your life. I have the expertise you need to overcome anxiety and the daily experiences that interfere with your sense of wellbeing and health.
I use a variety of evidence-based techniques focused on strength and skill building, and my secret weapon is EMDR, a powerful intervention that helps you process traumatic memories, negative experiences, and rewire your brain for positive change.
Hi, I'm Rachel Cooper, a compassionate and dedicated mental health therapist who specializes in helping you overcome what’s holding you back. If you're dealing with anxiety, panic, phobias, PTSD, or trauma, you might feel like you're stuck in a rut. You might feel like they're interfering with relationships, work, hobbies, or happiness. I'm ready to help you break free from their grip and reclaim your life. I have the expertise you need to overcome anxiety and the daily experiences that interfere with your sense of wellbeing and health.
(872) 245-0197 View (872) 245-0197
Photo of Riverside Counseling Center, PLLC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnebago, IL
Riverside Counseling Center, PLLC
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
We use a variety of techniques and approaches at our office, including CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Attachment Therapy, EMDR, Gottman Method, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Our desire is to partner with you, right where you are at, to process pieces of your story that may hold different levels of meaning and are no longer serving their purpose. We want to provide you with space and tools to continue to grow and develop into the best version of you. We will walk alongside you toward positive change. We strive to provide a welcoming, comfortable, confidential, and judgment-free environment in which our staff will accept and attend to your interests and requests. Often, the hardest part of counseling is just getting started! Give us a call and we'd love to help you get connected!
We use a variety of techniques and approaches at our office, including CBT (Cognitive Behavior Therapy), Attachment Therapy, EMDR, Gottman Method, and Solution-Focused Therapy.
Our desire is to partner with you, right where you are at, to process pieces of your story that may hold different levels of meaning and are no longer serving their purpose. We want to provide you with space and tools to continue to grow and develop into the best version of you. We will walk alongside you toward positive change. We strive to provide a welcoming, comfortable, confidential, and judgment-free environment in which our staff will accept and attend to your interests and requests. Often, the hardest part of counseling is just getting started! Give us a call and we'd love to help you get connected!
(815) 506-0164 View (815) 506-0164
Photo of Erika La Frano, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnebago, IL
Erika La Frano
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
I am trained in a variety of modalities including Problem Solving Treatment (PST), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) among others.
My approach to psychotherapy is culturally responsive, collaborative, and evidence based. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, depression, burn out, relational stress, and difficulty coping with change, you are not alone. Together, we will work to set measurable and realistic goals that align with your values and cultural beliefs. I am licensed in California and Illinois.
I am trained in a variety of modalities including Problem Solving Treatment (PST), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), CBT, and Interpersonal Psychotherapy (IPT) among others.
My approach to psychotherapy is culturally responsive, collaborative, and evidence based. If you find yourself experiencing anxiety, depression, burn out, relational stress, and difficulty coping with change, you are not alone. Together, we will work to set measurable and realistic goals that align with your values and cultural beliefs. I am licensed in California and Illinois.
(805) 273-8779 View (805) 273-8779
Photo of Rock River Therapy, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnebago, IL
Rock River Therapy
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Byron, IL 61010  (Online Only)
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a specialized focus and training in trauma, adoption, and attachment. I have completed trainings in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Adoption competency (TAC), Brainspotting (BSP), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). My approach to clients is relaxed, compassionate, and most importantly, non judgmental. I take great care to create a sense of felt safety in order for clients to freely share and process painful emotions and experiences to achieve greater well being and happiness. At this time, I offer Telehealth exclusively.
I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a specialized focus and training in trauma, adoption, and attachment. I have completed trainings in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR), Adoption competency (TAC), Brainspotting (BSP), and Trauma Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT). My approach to clients is relaxed, compassionate, and most importantly, non judgmental. I take great care to create a sense of felt safety in order for clients to freely share and process painful emotions and experiences to achieve greater well being and happiness. At this time, I offer Telehealth exclusively.
(608) 200-3134 View (608) 200-3134
Photo of Jodi Fourt, Counselor in Winnebago, IL
Jodi Fourt
Counselor, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
The journey inside the self can be profound self discovery and change. It can help to heal psychological turmoil and emotional pain by putting the past into perspective and walking forward into a different future. It is not easy. Sometimes you are faced with something in your life or within your family that changes everything. "This is not what I had planned". Finding your balance can be difficult.The very thought of beginning such a pilgrimage may cause anxiety and uncertainty. You know you need to get past it and yet it's not that simple and you feel unequipped.
The journey inside the self can be profound self discovery and change. It can help to heal psychological turmoil and emotional pain by putting the past into perspective and walking forward into a different future. It is not easy. Sometimes you are faced with something in your life or within your family that changes everything. "This is not what I had planned". Finding your balance can be difficult.The very thought of beginning such a pilgrimage may cause anxiety and uncertainty. You know you need to get past it and yet it's not that simple and you feel unequipped.
(224) 385-0817 View (224) 385-0817
Photo of Vicki Elizabeth Marcum, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnebago, IL
Vicki Elizabeth Marcum
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61102
I have worked with all ages across the life span from birth to death and all the life issues in-between. I work with people with mood disorders, relationship issues, child and family, illness, grief/loss, women's issues, abuse, domestic violence. and trauma issues. You are not your diagnosis! I know some kind of pain has made you reach out. I want to help you find a way to make the pain go away so you will feel good. and live more fully in the moment.
I have worked with all ages across the life span from birth to death and all the life issues in-between. I work with people with mood disorders, relationship issues, child and family, illness, grief/loss, women's issues, abuse, domestic violence. and trauma issues. You are not your diagnosis! I know some kind of pain has made you reach out. I want to help you find a way to make the pain go away so you will feel good. and live more fully in the moment.
(815) 683-0579 View (815) 683-0579
Photo of Brendalis Rios, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnebago, IL
Brendalis Rios
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
Hi, I am Brendalis and I go by Brenda. Do you feel tired of been undervalued, or feel that you do not matter? I am here to help you improve those feelings and help you understand that you do matter, and you are valuable. I love helping individual achieve their goals and help improve their well-being. I have vast experience working with individual with trauma, depression, anxieties, ADHD, self-esteem, family dynamics, and life-changing events. I consider myself an eclectic social worker who understands that one approach doesn’t fit all, and I like to utilize different techniques based on the client’s needs.
Hi, I am Brendalis and I go by Brenda. Do you feel tired of been undervalued, or feel that you do not matter? I am here to help you improve those feelings and help you understand that you do matter, and you are valuable. I love helping individual achieve their goals and help improve their well-being. I have vast experience working with individual with trauma, depression, anxieties, ADHD, self-esteem, family dynamics, and life-changing events. I consider myself an eclectic social worker who understands that one approach doesn’t fit all, and I like to utilize different techniques based on the client’s needs.
(224) 268-0397 View (224) 268-0397
Photo of Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy, Counselor in Winnebago, IL
Harmony Center for Holistic Psychotherapy
Counselor, MA, LCPC, PsyD
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61104
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
Welcome! We provide traditional and holistic healing for mind, body & spirit health. We work with individuals, couples, families & groups age 5 and up. The facility is located on a main street with free parking. This is a private practice with a private waiting room in a very comfortable & soothing setting. Look for the yellow house with raspberry trim. Hours are Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and from 2:00 p.m. until 10:00 p.m. When you call, we will do a brief intake, verify your insurance benefits & schedule your first appointment. We do not have a waiting list and can schedule your first appointment within the same week.
(815) 683-6561 View (815) 683-6561
Photo of Daniel E Sommer, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Winnebago, IL
Daniel E Sommer
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101
Being human is challenging. Who someone believes they 'should' be is often different than who the feeling parts of them 'want' to be. Conflict between thoughts and emotions can manifest as any number of mental health conditions including chronic anxiety, prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and depressed mood. As a psychotherapist, I help people to better understand and cultivate a relationship with the emotional parts of their mind. Our work together will focus less on 'fixing' or 'blocking' distressing emotions and more on learning how to integrate these important aspects of your mind into a more healthy and authentic you.
Being human is challenging. Who someone believes they 'should' be is often different than who the feeling parts of them 'want' to be. Conflict between thoughts and emotions can manifest as any number of mental health conditions including chronic anxiety, prolonged grief, post-traumatic stress, and depressed mood. As a psychotherapist, I help people to better understand and cultivate a relationship with the emotional parts of their mind. Our work together will focus less on 'fixing' or 'blocking' distressing emotions and more on learning how to integrate these important aspects of your mind into a more healthy and authentic you.
(815) 916-4215 View (815) 916-4215
Photo of Kimberly Greyson-Bost, Counselor in Winnebago, IL
Kimberly Greyson-Bost
Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
Rockford, IL 61101  (Online Only)
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor my goal is to match you with the best of traditional and Positive Psychology methods to reduce or eliminate distress while increasing your ability to thrive. I apply both evidence-based and existential treatments for you to develop and master your best possible self. I believe that the best outcomes begin with honoring your life experiences, inherent wisdom and personal strengths. Together we will explore and heal the areas of your life that need attention. I am here to listen and to guide you through the creative process of being your own architect of your most authentic self.
As a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor my goal is to match you with the best of traditional and Positive Psychology methods to reduce or eliminate distress while increasing your ability to thrive. I apply both evidence-based and existential treatments for you to develop and master your best possible self. I believe that the best outcomes begin with honoring your life experiences, inherent wisdom and personal strengths. Together we will explore and heal the areas of your life that need attention. I am here to listen and to guide you through the creative process of being your own architect of your most authentic self.
(779) 210-6112 View (779) 210-6112
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.