Photo of Joshua C Barnett, MSW, LSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Joshua C Barnett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I utilize evidence-based therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR and Psychodynamic Therapy to help you understand how and why you think your thoughts and then question the emotions and attitudes that affect your life.
Life is not fair; there is often an imbalance and you may feel overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. You may feel like you just don’t know who you are anymore, that you lack a voice or feel stuck. These emotions can leave someone feeling lost in the world.
I utilize evidence-based therapies, Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Cognitive Behavior Therapy, EMDR and Psychodynamic Therapy to help you understand how and why you think your thoughts and then question the emotions and attitudes that affect your life.
Life is not fair; there is often an imbalance and you may feel overwhelmed, anxious or depressed. You may feel like you just don’t know who you are anymore, that you lack a voice or feel stuck. These emotions can leave someone feeling lost in the world.
(312) 779-6927 View (312) 779-6927
Photo of Daniel Westheimer, LPC, MA, NCC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Daniel Westheimer
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC, MA, NCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
I am a trauma-informed, EMDR therapist with a belief in a supportive therapeutic alliance.
I primarily work with individuals and couples moving through life’s unique challenges. I have experience working with individuals who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community and clients who are neurodivergent, working to operate in a neurotypical society. I am sex & poly knowledgable. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity exploration, and relational issues. Before working as a therapist, I was an actor and artist, where my strengths of empathy and curiosity were developed.
I am a trauma-informed, EMDR therapist with a belief in a supportive therapeutic alliance.
I primarily work with individuals and couples moving through life’s unique challenges. I have experience working with individuals who are a part of the LGBTQ+ community and clients who are neurodivergent, working to operate in a neurotypical society. I am sex & poly knowledgable. I have experience working with anxiety, depression, trauma, identity exploration, and relational issues. Before working as a therapist, I was an actor and artist, where my strengths of empathy and curiosity were developed.
(773) 432-7216 View (773) 432-7216
Photo of Kirk Johnson, MA, LPC, Counselor
Kirk Johnson
Counselor, MA, LPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I often draw on therapeutic approaches, like CBT, internal family parts, and EMDR to help clients stabilize their anxiety and self-regulate.
You are stressed with your personal life, relationships, or work and feel like you haven't tapped into your true potential. My name is Kirk Johnson and I'm a Licensed Counselor/Therapist. My clients typically start therapy to improve their stress/anxiety management, interpersonal relationships, identity exploration, self-confidence, and trauma response. Often times, clients need to go deeper to find meaning in their past and present experiences and the narratives they tell themselves. These crucial conversations can help stabilize big feelings, and build inner strength.
I often draw on therapeutic approaches, like CBT, internal family parts, and EMDR to help clients stabilize their anxiety and self-regulate.
You are stressed with your personal life, relationships, or work and feel like you haven't tapped into your true potential. My name is Kirk Johnson and I'm a Licensed Counselor/Therapist. My clients typically start therapy to improve their stress/anxiety management, interpersonal relationships, identity exploration, self-confidence, and trauma response. Often times, clients need to go deeper to find meaning in their past and present experiences and the narratives they tell themselves. These crucial conversations can help stabilize big feelings, and build inner strength.
(773) 207-3895 View (773) 207-3895
Photo of Richard Rodgers, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Richard Rodgers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Rick is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor, as well as a trauma-informed Clinician who takes an authentic approach with his clients. He is licensed in Arizona, New Hampshire, Indiana, and Illinois. Rick is currently accepting virtual clients. Rick is a yoga and Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional. He is an eclectic therapist who uses Internal Family Systems Therapy and EMDR. Rick focuses on trauma, narcissistic partner and parental abuse recovery, and substance abuse.
Rick is a Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor, as well as a trauma-informed Clinician who takes an authentic approach with his clients. He is licensed in Arizona, New Hampshire, Indiana, and Illinois. Rick is currently accepting virtual clients. Rick is a yoga and Certified Mindfulness Informed Professional. He is an eclectic therapist who uses Internal Family Systems Therapy and EMDR. Rick focuses on trauma, narcissistic partner and parental abuse recovery, and substance abuse.
(217) 387-9874 View (217) 387-9874
Photo of Keith W Merrifield, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Keith W Merrifield
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
I use evidenced-based interventions from a variety of perspectives including CBT, DBT, EMDR, MBCT, and substance use interventions such as Motivational Enhancement.
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page. You are likely here because you are experiencing some emotional distress and are considering counseling. One of the most important decisions you will now make is choosing a therapist whose therapeutic approach will work best for you. To that end, it’s my pleasure to provide you with this brief biography and I look forward to meeting with you and continuing the journey towards your health and well-being. I have worked extensively with issues such as Anxiety, Trauma, Addictions, Anger, Loss, Depression, Relationships, Families, Self-Harm, Personality Disorders, and Life Changes.
I use evidenced-based interventions from a variety of perspectives including CBT, DBT, EMDR, MBCT, and substance use interventions such as Motivational Enhancement.
Hello, and thank you for visiting my page. You are likely here because you are experiencing some emotional distress and are considering counseling. One of the most important decisions you will now make is choosing a therapist whose therapeutic approach will work best for you. To that end, it’s my pleasure to provide you with this brief biography and I look forward to meeting with you and continuing the journey towards your health and well-being. I have worked extensively with issues such as Anxiety, Trauma, Addictions, Anger, Loss, Depression, Relationships, Families, Self-Harm, Personality Disorders, and Life Changes.
(872) 666-9972 View (872) 666-9972
Photo of Charlie Brookover, LCPC, CADC, Counselor
Charlie Brookover
Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60603  (Online Only)
I am experienced in both individual and group therapy, and am trained in EMDR to help clients suffering from trauma.
At times a crisis, trauma, or series of compounding stressors can overwhelm one’s normal resilience and ability to cope. Professional therapy provides help in navigating through these difficult times, and the process can create lasting insight leading to a richer, more satisfying life. I believe as a clinical therapist, my responsibility is to provide a space where clients feel safe, valued and heard. I appreciate the uniqueness of each of my clients, and see the therapy process as a collaboration, where patterns of thinking and behavior are explored in an effort to bring about change.
I am experienced in both individual and group therapy, and am trained in EMDR to help clients suffering from trauma.
At times a crisis, trauma, or series of compounding stressors can overwhelm one’s normal resilience and ability to cope. Professional therapy provides help in navigating through these difficult times, and the process can create lasting insight leading to a richer, more satisfying life. I believe as a clinical therapist, my responsibility is to provide a space where clients feel safe, valued and heard. I appreciate the uniqueness of each of my clients, and see the therapy process as a collaboration, where patterns of thinking and behavior are explored in an effort to bring about change.
(312) 584-5424 View (312) 584-5424
Photo of Matthew Liberatore, EdD, LCPC, Counselor
Matthew Liberatore
Counselor, EdD, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
Using a combination of analysis, behavior change, and advanced tools like EMDR (Certified) and Informed IFS, we can quickly and less painfully effect lasting change.
On the outside it seems you have it together. You're successful and well respected but inside there's a fear that they'll find out what a fraud you are. When the mask falls they'll all know the effort it takes to get things done. They don't know how loud it is in your head: all the noise, the anxiety, insecurity, negative self evaluations. You get things done but not without a ton of energy. It impacts work, self, and even relationships. You're tired and lost. This is life as you know it but it doesn't actually have to stay this way.
Using a combination of analysis, behavior change, and advanced tools like EMDR (Certified) and Informed IFS, we can quickly and less painfully effect lasting change.
On the outside it seems you have it together. You're successful and well respected but inside there's a fear that they'll find out what a fraud you are. When the mask falls they'll all know the effort it takes to get things done. They don't know how loud it is in your head: all the noise, the anxiety, insecurity, negative self evaluations. You get things done but not without a ton of energy. It impacts work, self, and even relationships. You're tired and lost. This is life as you know it but it doesn't actually have to stay this way.
(224) 279-6552 View (224) 279-6552
Photo of Richard McCoy, MA, LCPC, Counselor
Richard McCoy
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60626  (Online Only)
I work exclusively with individual adults who have experienced trauma and/or challenges during their lifetime that have distorted their abilities to live the life that rightfully belongs to them through use of EMDR and adaptive core belief work.
Do you feel as if you have lost your confidence, or you struggle with a negative view of yourself? Do you believe that perhaps on your path towards happiness and living the life you want has been affected by traumatic or significant life events? I have over ten years experience helping individuals reclaim a life full of meaning and purpose and to begin seeing themselves as the awesome and wonderful person they were meant to be. I believe the manner in which we view ourselves affects the manner in which we live our lives and how we navigate through our existence with others.
I work exclusively with individual adults who have experienced trauma and/or challenges during their lifetime that have distorted their abilities to live the life that rightfully belongs to them through use of EMDR and adaptive core belief work.
Do you feel as if you have lost your confidence, or you struggle with a negative view of yourself? Do you believe that perhaps on your path towards happiness and living the life you want has been affected by traumatic or significant life events? I have over ten years experience helping individuals reclaim a life full of meaning and purpose and to begin seeing themselves as the awesome and wonderful person they were meant to be. I believe the manner in which we view ourselves affects the manner in which we live our lives and how we navigate through our existence with others.
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Photo of Rob LeLaurin, MA, LCPC, CSAT, EMDR
Rob LeLaurin
MA, LCPC, CSAT, EMDR
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60604  (Online Only)
I am also trained in EMDR trauma therapy.
Feeling overwhelmed by addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, or shame? You're not alone. Let's break free from these patterns together. I'll help you understand your emotions, change negative thoughts, and find balance in life. Tomorrow doesn't have to be like today. Change is possible. As your therapist, I'll bear witness to your story, guiding you toward transformation, healing, and wholeness.
I am also trained in EMDR trauma therapy.
Feeling overwhelmed by addiction, trauma, anxiety, depression, or shame? You're not alone. Let's break free from these patterns together. I'll help you understand your emotions, change negative thoughts, and find balance in life. Tomorrow doesn't have to be like today. Change is possible. As your therapist, I'll bear witness to your story, guiding you toward transformation, healing, and wholeness.
(630) 345-8672 View (630) 345-8672
Photo of Matt Smith, LCPC
Matt Smith
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Verified Verified
12 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60661
The crux of my approach is simple, but versatile: I use anything and everything available to make breakthroughs possible. We all do better with an expansive toolkit. EMDR for "stuckness" / trauma and Gottman methods for couples to repair & connect. (Well worth YouTubing either for a sense of them.) Once we understand each other and you are insight-equipped, we'll put insight into action. But in ways that feel authentic to your personal experience of things. Clients often report that my approachable, humorous, "very human" style makes therapy a much more effective experience even when exploring difficult content.
The crux of my approach is simple, but versatile: I use anything and everything available to make breakthroughs possible. We all do better with an expansive toolkit. EMDR for "stuckness" / trauma and Gottman methods for couples to repair & connect. (Well worth YouTubing either for a sense of them.) Once we understand each other and you are insight-equipped, we'll put insight into action. But in ways that feel authentic to your personal experience of things. Clients often report that my approachable, humorous, "very human" style makes therapy a much more effective experience even when exploring difficult content.
(312) 548-9309 View (312) 548-9309
Photo of Matthew Joseph Lieser, MA, LCPC
Matthew Joseph Lieser
MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640
I specialize in reconciling faith and sexuality to heal past wounds, EMDR and trauma, men's issues, self-esteem, existentialism, LGBTQ, anxiety and depression.
Building trust comes from telling your story in a safe space. Together we can create a therapeutic alliance that is conducive towards self discovery, growth, and fulfilling your potential. I see my role as your therapist to provide a space of care and concern coupled with providing real insights that can help you grow and face challenges.
I specialize in reconciling faith and sexuality to heal past wounds, EMDR and trauma, men's issues, self-esteem, existentialism, LGBTQ, anxiety and depression.
Building trust comes from telling your story in a safe space. Together we can create a therapeutic alliance that is conducive towards self discovery, growth, and fulfilling your potential. I see my role as your therapist to provide a space of care and concern coupled with providing real insights that can help you grow and face challenges.
(773) 770-6854 View (773) 770-6854
Photo of Lee Hubbell, MA, MDiv, MEd, BA, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Lee Hubbell
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, MDiv, MEd, BA, LPC
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
I use a variety of techniques but ground my practice in incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and spiritual guidance as a path toward healing.
Mind, body and spirit; I believe that all three work together and when we start to heal one of these areas the other areas can begin to heal also. My wholistic vision is one that incorporates mind, body and spirit as the optimal condition for growth, healing and wholeness. I operate from a belief that deep in our core we are whole, healthy and healed. I think that our world, society and past experience bruise us, but we are never fully broken. We all have the capacity to heal and to live a life of wholeness, joy, and freedom.
I use a variety of techniques but ground my practice in incorporating Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, and spiritual guidance as a path toward healing.
Mind, body and spirit; I believe that all three work together and when we start to heal one of these areas the other areas can begin to heal also. My wholistic vision is one that incorporates mind, body and spirit as the optimal condition for growth, healing and wholeness. I operate from a belief that deep in our core we are whole, healthy and healed. I think that our world, society and past experience bruise us, but we are never fully broken. We all have the capacity to heal and to live a life of wholeness, joy, and freedom.
(872) 231-0731 View (872) 231-0731
Photo of Patrick M Rodgers, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Patrick M Rodgers
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60640  (Online Only)
I have training in EMDR- levels 1&2, I also integrate CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness to meet your individual needs.
If you want to make positive changes in your life and need support, perhaps you are ready to start (or re-start) an amazing journey in therapy. I’ll meet you exactly where you are, and we’ll start from there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive counseling experience in community mental health, addiction treatment and inpatient behavioral health settings. I bring my lived experience into the clinical space along with kindness, encouragement and active listening. I provide a collaborative approach to therapy in a non-judgmental and safe space.
I have training in EMDR- levels 1&2, I also integrate CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing and Mindfulness to meet your individual needs.
If you want to make positive changes in your life and need support, perhaps you are ready to start (or re-start) an amazing journey in therapy. I’ll meet you exactly where you are, and we’ll start from there! I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with extensive counseling experience in community mental health, addiction treatment and inpatient behavioral health settings. I bring my lived experience into the clinical space along with kindness, encouragement and active listening. I provide a collaborative approach to therapy in a non-judgmental and safe space.
(872) 245-0530 View (872) 245-0530
Photo of Nicholas J Piechotte, LCSW, MSW, CADC, EMDR, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Nicholas J Piechotte
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, MSW, CADC, EMDR
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60657
I approach therapy with positivity, mindfulness, humor and goals. I am a certified substance abuse counselor and an EMDR trained clinician. I also incorporate spirituality to holistically treat my clients mind, body and soul. My clinical skills are rooted in CBT, DBT, Psycho-dynamic and Motivational Interviewing.
I approach therapy with positivity, mindfulness, humor and goals. I am a certified substance abuse counselor and an EMDR trained clinician. I also incorporate spirituality to holistically treat my clients mind, body and soul. My clinical skills are rooted in CBT, DBT, Psycho-dynamic and Motivational Interviewing.
(312) 874-5275 View (312) 874-5275
Photo of Dr. Louis Formica, PhD, Psychologist
Dr. Louis Formica
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60613  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
I am also trained to deliver EMDR therapy to treat trauma and other adverse experiences.
Counseling can strengthen your ability to recognize and make choices in your life that align with the person you want to be. I can help you cope with difficult emotions and develop a strong sense of self-compassion and acceptance. I am most passionate about addressing concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual health. A significant portion of my career has been focused on serving LGBTQ+ people and communities, and I pay close attention to cultural factors and the ways in which they impact a person's vantage point in this world.
I am also trained to deliver EMDR therapy to treat trauma and other adverse experiences.
Counseling can strengthen your ability to recognize and make choices in your life that align with the person you want to be. I can help you cope with difficult emotions and develop a strong sense of self-compassion and acceptance. I am most passionate about addressing concerns related to anxiety, depression, trauma, and sexual health. A significant portion of my career has been focused on serving LGBTQ+ people and communities, and I pay close attention to cultural factors and the ways in which they impact a person's vantage point in this world.
(312) 957-8322 View (312) 957-8322
Photo of Derek R Henkle, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Derek R Henkle
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MS, LCPC, NCC, CCTP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60613
Waitlist for new clients
I specialize in trauma care and integrate Neuroscience, CBT, EMDR, and IFS-informed (parts) therapy.
You deserve to be happy. If you are like most of my clients, you may have experienced some painful event in the past that keeps you stuck. Others seek help with anxiety and depression that is blocking them from living the joyful life they aspire to. Many of my clients say past traumas prevent them from having the type of deep fulfilling relationships they are worthy of. These clients often describe therapy with me as being relaxed and friendly - like talking with a confidant - achieving gains through our sessions that they have not obtained previously.
I specialize in trauma care and integrate Neuroscience, CBT, EMDR, and IFS-informed (parts) therapy.
You deserve to be happy. If you are like most of my clients, you may have experienced some painful event in the past that keeps you stuck. Others seek help with anxiety and depression that is blocking them from living the joyful life they aspire to. Many of my clients say past traumas prevent them from having the type of deep fulfilling relationships they are worthy of. These clients often describe therapy with me as being relaxed and friendly - like talking with a confidant - achieving gains through our sessions that they have not obtained previously.
(773) 207-3366 View (773) 207-3366
Photo of Hugh Cole III - Chicago Pride Center, LCSW, CADC, CGP
Chicago Pride Center
LCSW, CADC, CGP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60640
We offer individual, relational and group psychotherapy focusing on mood and behavioral issues, grief, trauma and substance use disorders with specializations in interpersonal dynamics, effective communication, relational and tri-phasic trauma work, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational interviewing, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapies in safe, affirming community.
Chicago Pride Center offers a breadth of specializations and training to tailor the therapeutic experience to the needs and preferences of each client, serving children and adults throughout the life-course. We bring a depth of experience in work with LGBTQ+, Gender Expansive folx, Allys, non-monogamous relationships as well as veterans through trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, transformative justice and empowerment-based frameworks.
We offer individual, relational and group psychotherapy focusing on mood and behavioral issues, grief, trauma and substance use disorders with specializations in interpersonal dynamics, effective communication, relational and tri-phasic trauma work, EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral, Motivational interviewing, Mindfulness and Psychodynamic therapies in safe, affirming community.
Chicago Pride Center offers a breadth of specializations and training to tailor the therapeutic experience to the needs and preferences of each client, serving children and adults throughout the life-course. We bring a depth of experience in work with LGBTQ+, Gender Expansive folx, Allys, non-monogamous relationships as well as veterans through trauma-informed, anti-oppressive, transformative justice and empowerment-based frameworks.
(773) 334-3533 View (773) 334-3533
Photo of Drake Schoeppl, LCSW, CCATP, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Drake Schoeppl
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCATP
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60657  (Online Only)
Sometimes life becomes unmanageable on our own and we have to reach out for help. I am here to help normalize therapy and the discomfort that comes along with it. I am trained in EMDR, a modality used to help process traumatic memories and the cognitions associated with them. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from chronic anxiety, depression, complex trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity issues, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and everyday life stressors that can be difficult to manage.
Sometimes life becomes unmanageable on our own and we have to reach out for help. I am here to help normalize therapy and the discomfort that comes along with it. I am trained in EMDR, a modality used to help process traumatic memories and the cognitions associated with them. I specialize in working with individuals suffering from chronic anxiety, depression, complex trauma, emotional dysregulation, identity issues, addiction, LGBTQ+ issues, and everyday life stressors that can be difficult to manage.
(872) 259-6240 View (872) 259-6240
Photo of Jeffrey Caldcleugh, CSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jeffrey Caldcleugh
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, CSW
Verified Verified
Chicago, IL 60609
Hello! I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of my clients. I have years of experience working with Client's and Families/Couple's from working in both mental health treatment facilities and outpatient private practice. I integrate a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy, Psychodynamics and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.
Hello! I use a collaborative and strengths-based approach with each of my clients. I have years of experience working with Client's and Families/Couple's from working in both mental health treatment facilities and outpatient private practice. I integrate a variety of evidenced-based treatment interventions to address behavioral health issues, including Motivational Interviewing, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, EMDR, Twelve-Step Facilitation Therapy, Psychodynamics and Dialectic Behavioral Therapy.
(312) 548-3788 View (312) 548-3788
Photo of Leon Abbey, MA, LCPC
Leon Abbey
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Chicago, IL 60603
I revere the uniqueness of each individual and couple on their journey. I believe that the unfolding of one's narrative requires witness and validation, fostering insights into oneself and others. It involves nurturing a secure, cooperative, and culturally attuned therapeutic environment that honors identity and choice. I integrate various therapeutic modalities, informed by cognitive-behavioral, strength-based, solution-focused, and Gottman methods couples therapy. Additionally, I have undergone comprehensive training in EMDR and continually pursue ongoing education to expand its use to treat a range of distressing events.
I revere the uniqueness of each individual and couple on their journey. I believe that the unfolding of one's narrative requires witness and validation, fostering insights into oneself and others. It involves nurturing a secure, cooperative, and culturally attuned therapeutic environment that honors identity and choice. I integrate various therapeutic modalities, informed by cognitive-behavioral, strength-based, solution-focused, and Gottman methods couples therapy. Additionally, I have undergone comprehensive training in EMDR and continually pursue ongoing education to expand its use to treat a range of distressing events.
(847) 595-5860 x8420 View (847) 595-5860 x8420
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.