EMDR Therapists in Des Plaines, IL

Photo of Playful Healing Center, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Plaines, IL
Playful Healing Center
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW, RPT-S
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
In addition, we provide evidence-based models such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Playful Healing Center holds the healing mission of strengthening and empowering individuals with effective therapeutic approaches. We have developed an array of high-quality mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Although we are specialized in pediatric psychotherapy in issues of attachment, trauma, behavioral and emotional issues, we also offer services to individuals and families with issues of trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders.
In addition, we provide evidence-based models such as Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Parent-Child Interaction Therapy (PCIT).
Playful Healing Center holds the healing mission of strengthening and empowering individuals with effective therapeutic approaches. We have developed an array of high-quality mental health services for children, adolescents, adults, and families. Although we are specialized in pediatric psychotherapy in issues of attachment, trauma, behavioral and emotional issues, we also offer services to individuals and families with issues of trauma, anxiety, and mood disorders.
(224) 765-4875 View (224) 765-4875
Photo of Maria Campuzano in Des Plaines, IL
Maria Campuzano
MA, LCPC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60018
I'm a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and work individuals, families, couples, children and adolescents and assist them in developing skills to live healthier and more functional lives. I take a warm, holistic and relational approach considering the mind-body connection and incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Eye Movement Desensitization And Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Family Systems. Grief Certified.
I'm a Bilingual Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and work individuals, families, couples, children and adolescents and assist them in developing skills to live healthier and more functional lives. I take a warm, holistic and relational approach considering the mind-body connection and incorporate a variety of therapeutic techniques, including Eye Movement Desensitization And Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Solution Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT), and Family Systems. Grief Certified.
(847) 558-7928 View (847) 558-7928
Photo of Center for Addiction Recovery, The Juniper Center, Psychologist in Des Plaines, IL
Center for Addiction Recovery, The Juniper Center
Psychologist, PsyD, CSADC, BCETS
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Develop strategies for trigger management Identify and work through issues that fuel compulsive behaviors Thorough assessment Individual therapy Group/skills based therapy Couple/Family therapy (when indicated) Mindfulness Meditation EMDR Yoga.
Maybe you or someone you care about seems to have lost control of your ability to drink, take medication, eat, gamble, have sex, use the internet, play video games in a way that is not disruptive or harmful to you or the ones you love. Is someone telling you that your behavior is a problem? Are you unable to consistently predict whether or not you can stop once you start? Do you find yourself planning, thinking about or engaging in the behavior when you need to be attending to other things in your life like relationships, work or school?
Develop strategies for trigger management Identify and work through issues that fuel compulsive behaviors Thorough assessment Individual therapy Group/skills based therapy Couple/Family therapy (when indicated) Mindfulness Meditation EMDR Yoga.
Maybe you or someone you care about seems to have lost control of your ability to drink, take medication, eat, gamble, have sex, use the internet, play video games in a way that is not disruptive or harmful to you or the ones you love. Is someone telling you that your behavior is a problem? Are you unable to consistently predict whether or not you can stop once you start? Do you find yourself planning, thinking about or engaging in the behavior when you need to be attending to other things in your life like relationships, work or school?
(847) 906-2094 View (847) 906-2094
Photo of Chicago Mental Health Institute, Counselor in Des Plaines, IL
Chicago Mental Health Institute
Counselor, PhD, NCC, LCPC, ACS
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Dr. Oksoon Cho is the founder of the Chicago Mental Health Institute (CMHI) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a counselor educator, and clinical supervisor. Her approach is integrative with Multicultural Counseling, Client-Centered, CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused, EMDR, Strength-Based, and play therapy. CMHI provides in-person sessions and telemental health services for culturally diverse clients in English and Korean. To meet our professional team, visit www.KOREANcounseling.com and www.CHICAGOmhi.com.
Dr. Oksoon Cho is the founder of the Chicago Mental Health Institute (CMHI) and a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, a counselor educator, and clinical supervisor. Her approach is integrative with Multicultural Counseling, Client-Centered, CBT, Mindfulness, Trauma-Focused, EMDR, Strength-Based, and play therapy. CMHI provides in-person sessions and telemental health services for culturally diverse clients in English and Korean. To meet our professional team, visit www.KOREANcounseling.com and www.CHICAGOmhi.com.
(630) 556-8162 View (630) 556-8162
Photo of Lisa Kohut, Counselor in Des Plaines, IL
Lisa Kohut
Counselor, EdD, EdS, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
I'm an independently licensed counselor, EMDR certified, and a spiritual coach, who has worked with individuals seeking spiritual connection, identity development, emotionally challenged adolescents and their families, struggling couples, and people who are looking to improve the quality of life and have more peace through connection to God and others.
I am a Christian Counselor/Psychologist and I use a compassionate, direct, faith based and solution focused approach that's personalized to your needs. If you're looking to get to the root of your issues, you want to improve the quality of your life and you want to be happier or have more peace, you've come to the right place. Whether it's individual therapy, marriage counseling, addiction counseling, psychological assessments or parental guidance for the challenging teenage years, I'll gently, but directly guide you in the right direction to discovering lasting solutions.
I'm an independently licensed counselor, EMDR certified, and a spiritual coach, who has worked with individuals seeking spiritual connection, identity development, emotionally challenged adolescents and their families, struggling couples, and people who are looking to improve the quality of life and have more peace through connection to God and others.
I am a Christian Counselor/Psychologist and I use a compassionate, direct, faith based and solution focused approach that's personalized to your needs. If you're looking to get to the root of your issues, you want to improve the quality of your life and you want to be happier or have more peace, you've come to the right place. Whether it's individual therapy, marriage counseling, addiction counseling, psychological assessments or parental guidance for the challenging teenage years, I'll gently, but directly guide you in the right direction to discovering lasting solutions.
(847) 457-0577 View (847) 457-0577
Dyanne C Bresler
Counselor, MA, RN, LCPC
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Also, my experience as a psychiatric nurse and training in Imago Relationship Therapy and EMDR are incredibly valuable tools in my practice.
I work to create an atmosphere that is safe for my clients. I may use humor, ask more questions, make comments. As we progress, I will suggest new ways to approach situations and problems. Sometimes I teach my clients relaxation techniques. We talk. I listen. Sometimes I teach or even pray with my clients. In my office, folks are invited to be direct, to be honest, and to know that there will be no judgment of them for revealing their "dark side." Their challenge is reveal who and what they are. Mine is to make it safe.
Also, my experience as a psychiatric nurse and training in Imago Relationship Therapy and EMDR are incredibly valuable tools in my practice.
I work to create an atmosphere that is safe for my clients. I may use humor, ask more questions, make comments. As we progress, I will suggest new ways to approach situations and problems. Sometimes I teach my clients relaxation techniques. We talk. I listen. Sometimes I teach or even pray with my clients. In my office, folks are invited to be direct, to be honest, and to know that there will be no judgment of them for revealing their "dark side." Their challenge is reveal who and what they are. Mine is to make it safe.
(773) 414-4437 View (773) 414-4437
Photo of Analeise Parchen, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Plaines, IL
Analeise Parchen
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Waitlist for new clients
EMDR and EFT/Tapping lend themselves to my intuitive side, and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment helps a person shift anxiety disorders as well grief treatment.
Hello! I am Analeise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the NW side of Chicago where I offer individual and family therapy. I chiefly use Strengths Based, Client-Driven, and Person-Centered therapy. We are the experts on ourselves, even when thinking that conditions inside or outside of us are running the show. We have an innate drive to heal and grow. Therapy is designed to connect us with the truest expression of ourselves, not driven by anxiety or reactivity. It is a relief to know this is possible to access our best self; as a partner, parent, family member, or co-worker.
EMDR and EFT/Tapping lend themselves to my intuitive side, and Cognitive Behavioral Treatment helps a person shift anxiety disorders as well grief treatment.
Hello! I am Analeise, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker working in the NW side of Chicago where I offer individual and family therapy. I chiefly use Strengths Based, Client-Driven, and Person-Centered therapy. We are the experts on ourselves, even when thinking that conditions inside or outside of us are running the show. We have an innate drive to heal and grow. Therapy is designed to connect us with the truest expression of ourselves, not driven by anxiety or reactivity. It is a relief to know this is possible to access our best self; as a partner, parent, family member, or co-worker.
(773) 832-5650 View (773) 832-5650
Photo of Triune Counseling Services, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Des Plaines, IL
Triune Counseling Services
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC, NBCC
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
My areas of focus include but are not limited to, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, alcohol/drug and other process addictions, relationship issues, life transitions/adjustments, interpersonal concerns and faith based counseling. I believe its important to walk along side my client not only as their counselor, but as their cheerleader and their encourager in order to instill hope as they work towards becoming mentally sound, emotionally stable, physically strong and spiritually alive.
My areas of focus include but are not limited to, complex trauma, depression, anxiety, alcohol/drug and other process addictions, relationship issues, life transitions/adjustments, interpersonal concerns and faith based counseling. I believe its important to walk along side my client not only as their counselor, but as their cheerleader and their encourager in order to instill hope as they work towards becoming mentally sound, emotionally stable, physically strong and spiritually alive.
(773) 207-3241 View (773) 207-3241
Photo of Trauma Recovery Solutions at The Juniper Center, Psychologist in Des Plaines, IL
Trauma Recovery Solutions at The Juniper Center
Psychologist, PsyD, CSADC, BCETS
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Do you sometimes feel like you can't get beyond events that have happened in your life? Do you feel troubled or haunted by them despite your best efforts to move on? Are you withdrawn, unpredictable or irritable, releasing your feelings on the ones you love most. You may feel like you can't control your emotions or life. We work to help you understand what is happening in your brain and body that prevent you from digesting what has happened and to help you put it in the past, to move on. At The Juniper Center, we're helping you live your best life.
Do you sometimes feel like you can't get beyond events that have happened in your life? Do you feel troubled or haunted by them despite your best efforts to move on? Are you withdrawn, unpredictable or irritable, releasing your feelings on the ones you love most. You may feel like you can't control your emotions or life. We work to help you understand what is happening in your brain and body that prevent you from digesting what has happened and to help you put it in the past, to move on. At The Juniper Center, we're helping you live your best life.
(847) 892-4055 View (847) 892-4055
Photo of Association for Multicultural Behavioral Health , Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Plaines, IL
Association for Multicultural Behavioral Health
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCPC, CADC, SAP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Association for Multicultural Behavioral Health is a multispecialty group practice providing counseling, psychotherapy, consultation, evaluations and assessment services for individuals, families, and organizations. Our goal is to help people of different ethnic and cultural groups to access mental health services in their native language.
Association for Multicultural Behavioral Health is a multispecialty group practice providing counseling, psychotherapy, consultation, evaluations and assessment services for individuals, families, and organizations. Our goal is to help people of different ethnic and cultural groups to access mental health services in their native language.
(773) 313-3757 View (773) 313-3757
Photo of Center for Gender & Sexuality at Juniper Center, Psychologist in Des Plaines, IL
Center for Gender & Sexuality at Juniper Center
Psychologist, PsyD, CSADC, BCETS
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
At The Juniper Center you will find LGBTQ centered care. We are owned and directed by a therapist and a member of our community. Your name, your pronouns, your identity belong to you. Helping you heal belongs with us. You don't want to have to hide any of who you are. Whether your gender does not match your body, your identity does not match your gender, you love someone born the same sex as you or you love someone who is working their way through these issues, we are here to help. Perhaps you are a parent wanting to understand your child, or to help your child find a positive way through confusing issues.
At The Juniper Center you will find LGBTQ centered care. We are owned and directed by a therapist and a member of our community. Your name, your pronouns, your identity belong to you. Helping you heal belongs with us. You don't want to have to hide any of who you are. Whether your gender does not match your body, your identity does not match your gender, you love someone born the same sex as you or you love someone who is working their way through these issues, we are here to help. Perhaps you are a parent wanting to understand your child, or to help your child find a positive way through confusing issues.
(847) 807-4258 View (847) 807-4258
Photo of Park Ridge Psychological Services, Psychologist in Des Plaines, IL
Park Ridge Psychological Services
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Our emphasis is childhood mood and behavioral disorders, as well as learning difficulties. We perform psychoeducational evaluations for possible LD/ADHD; we also treat depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems in a non-medical, family-based context.
Our emphasis is childhood mood and behavioral disorders, as well as learning difficulties. We perform psychoeducational evaluations for possible LD/ADHD; we also treat depression, anxiety, and behavioral problems in a non-medical, family-based context.
(847) 416-0215 View (847) 416-0215
Photo of Jill Narcisi, Psychologist in Des Plaines, IL
Jill Narcisi
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016
You might be struggling with a painful relationship right now, feeling alternately drawn to and pulled apart from a particular someone. It may be a spouse, parent, sibling, child, friend, even co-worker. Or you might be involved in the often-difficult process of individuation, "growing up," sorting through who you are and who you want to be in the world, distinct from your roles as daughter/son, spouse, parent. My family-therapy skills have proven useful in healing relationship traumas such as abuse, affairs, or divorce, as well as with more general complaints of depression, anxiety, loneliness, and anger.
You might be struggling with a painful relationship right now, feeling alternately drawn to and pulled apart from a particular someone. It may be a spouse, parent, sibling, child, friend, even co-worker. Or you might be involved in the often-difficult process of individuation, "growing up," sorting through who you are and who you want to be in the world, distinct from your roles as daughter/son, spouse, parent. My family-therapy skills have proven useful in healing relationship traumas such as abuse, affairs, or divorce, as well as with more general complaints of depression, anxiety, loneliness, and anger.
(847) 920-7716 View (847) 920-7716
Photo of Veronica K. Gulezian, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Des Plaines, IL
Veronica K. Gulezian
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, CADC
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60016  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
Choosing to seek counseling can be a vulnerable decision. Maybe you're wondering if things are really that bad, or if counseling can even work. As someone who has been on both sides of the therapist's chair, I can confidently say that counseling can provide relief. I strive to create a safe and collaborative therapeutic space in order to help you develop a stronger, peaceful, and more positive sense of self. Together, we can figure out how to address any personal, professional, or relationship issues you want to bring to the table.
Choosing to seek counseling can be a vulnerable decision. Maybe you're wondering if things are really that bad, or if counseling can even work. As someone who has been on both sides of the therapist's chair, I can confidently say that counseling can provide relief. I strive to create a safe and collaborative therapeutic space in order to help you develop a stronger, peaceful, and more positive sense of self. Together, we can figure out how to address any personal, professional, or relationship issues you want to bring to the table.
(773) 347-7528 View (773) 347-7528
Photo of Thrive Therapeutic Services, LLC, Counselor in Des Plaines, IL
Thrive Therapeutic Services, LLC
Counselor, CEO
Verified Verified
Des Plaines, IL 60018
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life worth celebrating. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary approaches and techniques, we will unearth patterns or perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're ready to move in a new direction we look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. As solution-focused therapists, our goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life worth celebrating. We can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in your life. By applying complementary approaches and techniques, we will unearth patterns or perceptions that may be holding you back from experiencing a more fulfilling and meaningful life. If you're ready to move in a new direction we look forward to working with you to achieve your goals.
(224) 268-8346 View (224) 268-8346
Photo of George W Liebert, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Des Plaines, IL
George W Liebert
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC, MS, NCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Life is complicated and it often leaves us feeling out of control. This feeling of being powerless can lead to suffering, and forces us to make changes in order to go on. That's what I do; I help people with making changes, whether they are trying to change their thoughts, feelings or behavior. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy focused on the personal needs and strengths of my clients. The work is rooted in building a strong relationship based on trust, understanding, and respect, that challenges individuals to learn about themselves, and to use that knowledge to implement meaningful changes in their lives.
Life is complicated and it often leaves us feeling out of control. This feeling of being powerless can lead to suffering, and forces us to make changes in order to go on. That's what I do; I help people with making changes, whether they are trying to change their thoughts, feelings or behavior. I utilize an integrative approach to therapy focused on the personal needs and strengths of my clients. The work is rooted in building a strong relationship based on trust, understanding, and respect, that challenges individuals to learn about themselves, and to use that knowledge to implement meaningful changes in their lives.
(630) 354-0832 View (630) 354-0832
Photo of Lisa Mandl, Counselor in Des Plaines, IL
Lisa Mandl
Counselor, MS, LCPC, CCTP:II, CLYL
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Des Plaines, IL 60016
Not accepting new clients
I use an eclectic therapeutic style combining Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused (Brief) Therapy, am EMDR trained, IFS Level 1 trained and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Pro:II (Complex Trauma).
Your symptoms from trauma, dissociative disorders, complex-PTSD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression have reached a point where your level of distress has become unbearable and you are ready to do something different. I see the challenges you face and view you as a worthy, valuable warrior who's capable of achieving the life you want. I am deeply honored to travel the unknown path with you; to be present and support you through the darkness and follow you out towards a life filled with more hope and happiness. I want to help you rediscover strengths, resiliencies and insight promoting a journey towards healing.
I use an eclectic therapeutic style combining Person-Centered Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused (Brief) Therapy, am EMDR trained, IFS Level 1 trained and am a Certified Clinical Trauma Pro:II (Complex Trauma).
Your symptoms from trauma, dissociative disorders, complex-PTSD, PTSD, anxiety, and depression have reached a point where your level of distress has become unbearable and you are ready to do something different. I see the challenges you face and view you as a worthy, valuable warrior who's capable of achieving the life you want. I am deeply honored to travel the unknown path with you; to be present and support you through the darkness and follow you out towards a life filled with more hope and happiness. I want to help you rediscover strengths, resiliencies and insight promoting a journey towards healing.
(773) 825-5324 View (773) 825-5324

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Angelika Danek, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Plaines, IL
Angelika Danek
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CRADC, SAP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068
I also work with survivors of trauma using Brainspotting (BPS) and EMDR aapproaches.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience offering in-person and online counseling. My great passion is helping people to regain their emotional wellbeing and strengthen their relationships so they can feel peaceful, complete, whole and safe. I work with individuals, couples and families and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and marital problems. Being a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. Also, I provide psychological immigration evaluations: Hardship; VAWA, U Visa; T Visa; Asylum; Cancelation of Removal etc.
I also work with survivors of trauma using Brainspotting (BPS) and EMDR aapproaches.
I am a psychotherapist with extensive experience offering in-person and online counseling. My great passion is helping people to regain their emotional wellbeing and strengthen their relationships so they can feel peaceful, complete, whole and safe. I work with individuals, couples and families and specialize in treating depression, anxiety, substance abuse, trauma and marital problems. Being a certified Metabolic Balance coach, I offer a holistic weight management program. Also, I provide psychological immigration evaluations: Hardship; VAWA, U Visa; T Visa; Asylum; Cancelation of Removal etc.
(773) 830-3743 View (773) 830-3743
Photo of Mary Anastasi, Clinical Social Work/Therapist in Des Plaines, IL
Mary Anastasi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, PhD, LCSW
Verified Verified
Park Ridge, IL 60068  (Online Only)
I use a holistic, solution-focused blend of evidence-based techniques and have extensive training in CBT and EMDR.
Is your child acting in a challenging, confusing or troubling way? If so, please know that parents can take small steps that bring about big changes. I specialize in working with parents from the perinatal period throughout childhood. I believe that parents are their children's best bet for helping them develop mental health and emotional wellness. Parenting interventions don't mean that you are to blame for why your child is struggling, simply that you are capable of being involved in or facilitating the solution.
I use a holistic, solution-focused blend of evidence-based techniques and have extensive training in CBT and EMDR.
Is your child acting in a challenging, confusing or troubling way? If so, please know that parents can take small steps that bring about big changes. I specialize in working with parents from the perinatal period throughout childhood. I believe that parents are their children's best bet for helping them develop mental health and emotional wellness. Parenting interventions don't mean that you are to blame for why your child is struggling, simply that you are capable of being involved in or facilitating the solution.
(224) 263-1292 View (224) 263-1292
Photo of Melissa Rust, Counselor in Des Plaines, IL
Melissa Rust
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Park Ridge, IL 60068  (Online Only)
Melissa Rust is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois, and a Nationally Certified Counselor, trained in EMDR and Gottman principles, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Are you having conflict in your relationships, feeling stuck, depressed, or anxious? My specialization is working with people to heal anxiety, PTSD, and depressive symptoms, and resolve relational conflicts. Counseling provides incredible benefits including improved mental health, enhanced coping skills, emotional support, personal growth and self-empowerment.
Melissa Rust is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Illinois, and a Nationally Certified Counselor, trained in EMDR and Gottman principles, Internal Family Systems (IFS), and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Are you having conflict in your relationships, feeling stuck, depressed, or anxious? My specialization is working with people to heal anxiety, PTSD, and depressive symptoms, and resolve relational conflicts. Counseling provides incredible benefits including improved mental health, enhanced coping skills, emotional support, personal growth and self-empowerment.
(708) 487-0718 View (708) 487-0718

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.