EMDR Therapists in Le Roy, IL

Photo of Julie Ann Peloza, Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
Julie Ann Peloza
Licensed Professional Counselor, LPC
2 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and use different ways to support you, like talking about thoughts and behaviors (CBT), understanding emotions (DBT), exploring through play and art, focusing on personal growth (humanistic psychology), and sharing helpful information (psychoeducation).
Welcome! As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am passionate about supporting individuals facing various challenges, with a special focus on trauma, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. My expertise extends to working with teenagers, with a particular emphasis on those navigating the complexities of the LGBTQIA spectrum. I am committed to providing a safe and empathetic space for adolescents to explore and overcome their unique struggles, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being. Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment.
I have training in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and use different ways to support you, like talking about thoughts and behaviors (CBT), understanding emotions (DBT), exploring through play and art, focusing on personal growth (humanistic psychology), and sharing helpful information (psychoeducation).
Welcome! As a dedicated Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), I am passionate about supporting individuals facing various challenges, with a special focus on trauma, OCD, ADHD, anxiety, and depression. My expertise extends to working with teenagers, with a particular emphasis on those navigating the complexities of the LGBTQIA spectrum. I am committed to providing a safe and empathetic space for adolescents to explore and overcome their unique struggles, fostering growth, resilience, and well-being. Together, we can embark on a journey towards healing and empowerment.
(309) 245-0460 View (309) 245-0460
Photo of Caroline Van Aman, Counselor, LCPC, MS
Caroline Van Aman
Counselor, LCPC, MS
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
Not accepting new clients
( EMDR/CPT)
Life can bring about overwhelming emotional experiences that make us feel out of touch with our ourselves. Healing is possible. Neuroscience has shown us that our brains have the ability to make new connections and heal throughout our entire lives. We can restore our balance and find ourselves again. I love helping my clients to make new healthy connections. I am committed to the clients that I serve. I use a structured approach and have clear plan of action.
( EMDR/CPT)
Life can bring about overwhelming emotional experiences that make us feel out of touch with our ourselves. Healing is possible. Neuroscience has shown us that our brains have the ability to make new connections and heal throughout our entire lives. We can restore our balance and find ourselves again. I love helping my clients to make new healthy connections. I am committed to the clients that I serve. I use a structured approach and have clear plan of action.
(309) 220-3953 View (309) 220-3953

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Victoria Shirkey, Counselor, LCPC, NCC
Victoria Shirkey
Counselor, LCPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
With a master's in human development counseling, I use EMDR, Theraplay, and trust-based interventions.
Have you been questioning what to do next? Wondering if it’s even worth it? Searching for hope? Hi, I'm Victoria – but you can call me Tori! I’m a proud Illinois native, and when I’m not working, you’ll likely find me spending time with my dachshund, Poppy, listening to music, or enjoying time with friends and family. Since 2019, I’ve been honored to serve my community through mental health services. My passion lies in creating a welcoming and safe space where individuals can explore their thoughts and feelings. One of the most rewarding aspects of counseling for me is helping clients experience those 'aha moments' !
With a master's in human development counseling, I use EMDR, Theraplay, and trust-based interventions.
Have you been questioning what to do next? Wondering if it’s even worth it? Searching for hope? Hi, I'm Victoria – but you can call me Tori! I’m a proud Illinois native, and when I’m not working, you’ll likely find me spending time with my dachshund, Poppy, listening to music, or enjoying time with friends and family. Since 2019, I’ve been honored to serve my community through mental health services. My passion lies in creating a welcoming and safe space where individuals can explore their thoughts and feelings. One of the most rewarding aspects of counseling for me is helping clients experience those 'aha moments' !
(309) 252-4162 View (309) 252-4162
Photo of Jackie Vermaat, MS, LCPC, RYT-200
Jackie Vermaat
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Online Only
Using methods such as EMDR and somatic therapy, our work is collaborative and deeply personalized, designed to help you reconnect with your authentic self, build sustainable growth, and live in alignment with the person you want to be!
Feel like you're keeping it together on the outside but struggling inside? Do you identify with being high-functioning and capable but also have found yourself off balance? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone either. I specialize in supporting adults navigate life transitions, women's wellness, burnout, chronic stress, and identity shifts including managing anxiety, unraveling adult ADHD or dissociation, facing postpartum or fertility challenges, navigating professional difficulties or obstacles in sports performance, living with dysautonomia, or simply wanting to elevate yourself to the next level.
Using methods such as EMDR and somatic therapy, our work is collaborative and deeply personalized, designed to help you reconnect with your authentic self, build sustainable growth, and live in alignment with the person you want to be!
Feel like you're keeping it together on the outside but struggling inside? Do you identify with being high-functioning and capable but also have found yourself off balance? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to figure it out alone either. I specialize in supporting adults navigate life transitions, women's wellness, burnout, chronic stress, and identity shifts including managing anxiety, unraveling adult ADHD or dissociation, facing postpartum or fertility challenges, navigating professional difficulties or obstacles in sports performance, living with dysautonomia, or simply wanting to elevate yourself to the next level.
(309) 724-4194 View (309) 724-4194
Photo of Cynthia M Jagodzinski (Harbaugh), Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Cynthia M Jagodzinski (Harbaugh)
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Bloomington, IL 61701
I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Life's journey requires moments of reflection on where we have been in order to make decisions about where life can lead us next. Meeting with a therapist enables individuals and families the opportunities to be curious as to why patterns exist and encourages you to ask the questions - is this working for me? Would change benefit me? I am an attachment based therapist that works from a strengths base to encourage individuals to tolerate the discomfort that comes with introspection and inspire growth.
I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Life's journey requires moments of reflection on where we have been in order to make decisions about where life can lead us next. Meeting with a therapist enables individuals and families the opportunities to be curious as to why patterns exist and encourages you to ask the questions - is this working for me? Would change benefit me? I am an attachment based therapist that works from a strengths base to encourage individuals to tolerate the discomfort that comes with introspection and inspire growth.
(309) 328-3285 View (309) 328-3285
Photo of Jayme E Bradshaw, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Jayme E Bradshaw
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Serves Area
I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Our lives are very busy; therefore, my hours are flexible to work with your schedule. We will work together to create a treatment that is unique to your own needs. I have over 15 years of fieldwork and have been able to help people with many backgrounds and needs. I will listen to you and help guide you to where you want to be.
I am trained in EMDR therapy.
Our lives are very busy; therefore, my hours are flexible to work with your schedule. We will work together to create a treatment that is unique to your own needs. I have over 15 years of fieldwork and have been able to help people with many backgrounds and needs. I will listen to you and help guide you to where you want to be.
(815) 205-1566 View (815) 205-1566
Photo of Pamela Jo Elliott - Elliott Counseling Services, LLC, Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LCPC
Elliott Counseling Services, LLC
Counselor, MSEd, NCC, LCPC
15 Endorsed
Normal, IL 61761
I have also seen resolution of traumatic memories using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and/or brainpaint (neurobiofeedback).
My philosophy towards therapy and, being a therapist,can be put this way.You can create positive change in your life. You can overcome difficult and even seemingly overwhelming obstacles. The first step is to believe that you are worthy of a better life no matter what the present situation tells you. The next step is to accept that, 'Life is a Journey'. I think there is incredible wisdom and hope in those words; a journey is on-going, and, life gives you opportunities to change as you choose! Sometimes we just need a little help figuring out how to start.
I have also seen resolution of traumatic memories using Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) and/or brainpaint (neurobiofeedback).
My philosophy towards therapy and, being a therapist,can be put this way.You can create positive change in your life. You can overcome difficult and even seemingly overwhelming obstacles. The first step is to believe that you are worthy of a better life no matter what the present situation tells you. The next step is to accept that, 'Life is a Journey'. I think there is incredible wisdom and hope in those words; a journey is on-going, and, life gives you opportunities to change as you choose! Sometimes we just need a little help figuring out how to start.
(309) 319-6958 View (309) 319-6958
Photo of Alya Abbed, Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Alya Abbed
Licensed Professional Counselor, MA, LCPC
Normal, IL 61761
Alya Abbed is a licensed therapist specializing in trauma treatment. Al has over 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in mental health. Her clinical expertise is treating complex trauma including childhood abuse/neglect in addition to physical/sexual/emotional abuse and sexual assault. She is formally trained in EMDR, ITR, Theraplay, and trauma-informed sexual assault. Al's therapeutic modality of choice is talk therapy alongside EMDR, CBT, and DBT. She received her Bachelor's degree in Pyschology and her Master's degree in Community Counseling from Oakland University in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
Alya Abbed is a licensed therapist specializing in trauma treatment. Al has over 18 years of experience working with children, adolescents, and adults in mental health. Her clinical expertise is treating complex trauma including childhood abuse/neglect in addition to physical/sexual/emotional abuse and sexual assault. She is formally trained in EMDR, ITR, Theraplay, and trauma-informed sexual assault. Al's therapeutic modality of choice is talk therapy alongside EMDR, CBT, and DBT. She received her Bachelor's degree in Pyschology and her Master's degree in Community Counseling from Oakland University in Auburn Hills, Michigan.
(309) 226-4516 View (309) 226-4516
Photo of Sue Keogh, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Sue Keogh
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor, LCPC
Bloomington, IL 61704
My specialty is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which serves to heal trauma and negative thinking.
I enjoy working with clients who are invested in doing the work to make change possible, because that is my own investment as well.
My specialty is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) which serves to heal trauma and negative thinking.
I enjoy working with clients who are invested in doing the work to make change possible, because that is my own investment as well.
(309) 388-3837 View (309) 388-3837
Photo of Sarah Cain, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
Sarah Cain
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CCTP-II
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
I have been an EMDR certified therapist since 2020.
My experience includes providing mental health services to people across the lifespan. I have worked in a variety of settings including a residential treatment center for youth, a nonprofit agency that specializes in counseling for children and families impacted by sexual abuse, and a group practice. I am capable of treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief.
I have been an EMDR certified therapist since 2020.
My experience includes providing mental health services to people across the lifespan. I have worked in a variety of settings including a residential treatment center for youth, a nonprofit agency that specializes in counseling for children and families impacted by sexual abuse, and a group practice. I am capable of treating trauma, anxiety, depression, and grief.
(309) 315-4709 View (309) 315-4709
Photo of Bradi Gordon, Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Bradi Gordon
Counselor, MA, LCPC, NCC
Online Only
We will work together to create a safe space for you, where we utilize things that you're interested in, while also integrating evidence based treatment approaches like EMDR and body based approaches.
I have worked with people experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, mood management concerns, infertility, self esteem and self-worth, familial issues, family transitions, grief/loss, and behavioral issues. No matter the issue you are struggling with, I offer a safe and comfortable space to help you process and work toward wellness.
We will work together to create a safe space for you, where we utilize things that you're interested in, while also integrating evidence based treatment approaches like EMDR and body based approaches.
I have worked with people experiencing trauma, anxiety, depression, relationship issues, mood management concerns, infertility, self esteem and self-worth, familial issues, family transitions, grief/loss, and behavioral issues. No matter the issue you are struggling with, I offer a safe and comfortable space to help you process and work toward wellness.
(847) 512-3573 View (847) 512-3573
Photo of Suzanne Pearson, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Suzanne Pearson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Online Only
I use EMDR to help process any past trauma/distress, and hold a trauma-informed lens.
Therapy is a shared journey that requires trust and investment on both ends. I know that this kind of trust can take time to build. As such, I will always offer patience, understanding, and an open mind regarding anything that may be on your path. I will also always welcome your questions, curiosities, and critiques, and strive to respond in an open, honest, and direct manner. As a counselor, I recognize that our social locations and differing experiences affect our perspectives and approaches to the world, and I hold this in mind as I work with clients.
I use EMDR to help process any past trauma/distress, and hold a trauma-informed lens.
Therapy is a shared journey that requires trust and investment on both ends. I know that this kind of trust can take time to build. As such, I will always offer patience, understanding, and an open mind regarding anything that may be on your path. I will also always welcome your questions, curiosities, and critiques, and strive to respond in an open, honest, and direct manner. As a counselor, I recognize that our social locations and differing experiences affect our perspectives and approaches to the world, and I hold this in mind as I work with clients.
(720) 410-6056 View (720) 410-6056
Photo of Becca Marquart, Licensed Professional Counselor
Becca Marquart
Licensed Professional Counselor
Bloomington, IL 61701
With advanced training in trauma, attachment, Polyvagal, Internal Family Systems, AEDP, and EMDR, I integrate several approaches to best fit each client's needs.
Feeling overwhelmed can be a heavy burden. When things don’t unfold as hoped, it’s common to feel stuck and disconnected from both oneself and others. Sometimes, it’s difficult to pinpoint the source of this discomfort, yet the sense of being constantly on edge—racing thoughts, tension in the jaw—can be all too familiar. Deep down, there’s a knowing that life holds more for you, and it’s okay to seek support in finding the way back to that fullness. I enjoying walking with those who are sorting through grief and anxiety when life doesn't go as planned.
With advanced training in trauma, attachment, Polyvagal, Internal Family Systems, AEDP, and EMDR, I integrate several approaches to best fit each client's needs.
Feeling overwhelmed can be a heavy burden. When things don’t unfold as hoped, it’s common to feel stuck and disconnected from both oneself and others. Sometimes, it’s difficult to pinpoint the source of this discomfort, yet the sense of being constantly on edge—racing thoughts, tension in the jaw—can be all too familiar. Deep down, there’s a knowing that life holds more for you, and it’s okay to seek support in finding the way back to that fullness. I enjoying walking with those who are sorting through grief and anxiety when life doesn't go as planned.
(309) 893-1370 View (309) 893-1370
Photo of Kaitlin Wheeler Aubin, Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP, MPH
Kaitlin Wheeler Aubin
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, CIMHP, MPH
Online Only
I have specialized training in EMDR, DBT, and maternal mental health.
Hi! My name is Kaitlin Aubin and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Integrative Medicine Practitioner by title, but I prefer Kait! You can think of me as a compassionate ear for you to share (and sometimes vent) to. With the added benefit of professional guidance and feedback in response, I will listen and facilitate you in your process of becoming your own problem solver to whatever challenges and barriers life has thrown your way.
I have specialized training in EMDR, DBT, and maternal mental health.
Hi! My name is Kaitlin Aubin and I am Licensed Clinical Social Worker and Integrative Medicine Practitioner by title, but I prefer Kait! You can think of me as a compassionate ear for you to share (and sometimes vent) to. With the added benefit of professional guidance and feedback in response, I will listen and facilitate you in your process of becoming your own problem solver to whatever challenges and barriers life has thrown your way.
(309) 455-8831 View (309) 455-8831
Photo of Ashley Fullriede, Counselor, LPC
Ashley Fullriede
Counselor, LPC
5 Endorsed
Heyworth, IL 61745
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches, including AEDP, EMDR, Somatic therapies, and parts work.
Now accepting new clients! At points in our lives when we are feeling stuck, alone, and hurt we need a space or a relationship that meets us where we are at without feeling shame. Through therapy, we can have someone come on this journey towards healing. Healing is possible and I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.
I utilize a variety of therapeutic approaches, including AEDP, EMDR, Somatic therapies, and parts work.
Now accepting new clients! At points in our lives when we are feeling stuck, alone, and hurt we need a space or a relationship that meets us where we are at without feeling shame. Through therapy, we can have someone come on this journey towards healing. Healing is possible and I would be honored to walk alongside you on your journey.
(309) 244-1127 View (309) 244-1127
Photo of Carley Nigro, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , LCPC, NCC
Carley Nigro
Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor , LCPC, NCC
1 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61704
Within my practice, I utilize a variety of approaches, including AEDP, EMDR, attachment work, Theraplay-based therapy, emotion-focused, CBT, and somatic/body-based therapies.
I’m aware of the unique psychological, emotional, and social challenges faced by young individuals as they navigate the complexities of childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood. I would like to walk alongside of those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and family dynamics concerns. I believe that you are capable of growth and healing!
Within my practice, I utilize a variety of approaches, including AEDP, EMDR, attachment work, Theraplay-based therapy, emotion-focused, CBT, and somatic/body-based therapies.
I’m aware of the unique psychological, emotional, and social challenges faced by young individuals as they navigate the complexities of childhood, adolescence, and early adulthood. I would like to walk alongside of those who are struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and family dynamics concerns. I believe that you are capable of growth and healing!
(309) 233-2401 View (309) 233-2401
Photo of Ken J Summers, Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Ken J Summers
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Bloomington, IL 61704
I use an integrated approach to therapy, including, but not limited to, the Word of God, Trust-Based Relational Interventions (TBRI), Attachment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Experiential Therapy, Marriage Mentoring and Couples Coaching, Theraplay, EMDR and Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics.
It is easy to become sidetracked from the things we value most by the busyness of life. Has your relationship with your spouse lost its spark? Are you angry with little hope for a positive future? Do you feel defeated when trying to interact with your teen/child with everyday battles? If you are a person of faith and long to be your best, I can help! As a Christian Licensed Therapist, I have helped hundreds of families work through personal & relational conflict and challenging circumstances.
I use an integrated approach to therapy, including, but not limited to, the Word of God, Trust-Based Relational Interventions (TBRI), Attachment Therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution-Focused, Experiential Therapy, Marriage Mentoring and Couples Coaching, Theraplay, EMDR and Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics.
It is easy to become sidetracked from the things we value most by the busyness of life. Has your relationship with your spouse lost its spark? Are you angry with little hope for a positive future? Do you feel defeated when trying to interact with your teen/child with everyday battles? If you are a person of faith and long to be your best, I can help! As a Christian Licensed Therapist, I have helped hundreds of families work through personal & relational conflict and challenging circumstances.
(309) 328-6651 View (309) 328-6651
Photo of Amber Williams - Thriveworks Counseling & Psychiatry Normal, Counselor
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
Popular approaches include CBT, DBT, EMDR, Christian Counseling, PCT, Motivational Interviewing, EFT, Positive Psychology, Psychodynamic therapy, Relational therapy, Narrative therapy, and more.
At Thriveworks, we're dedicated to providing top-tier mental health services that are easily accessible to everyone. With over 340 locations nationwide and flexible online therapy options, our professional therapists are equipped to assist you through any stress, life transitions, or ongoing mental health concerns. We prioritize your convenience and needs by offering flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend appointments, ensuring that you can start your therapy journey as early as this week. Plus, we accept most major insurance plans, making your path to mental health support smoother and more affordable.
(309) 248-6507 View (309) 248-6507
Photo of MacKenzie Jones, Counselor, LCPC
MacKenzie Jones
Counselor, LCPC
2 Endorsed
Bloomington, IL 61701
I also incorporate EMDR therapy to help process and heal from past experiences, along with creative methods that facilitate a more expressive exploration of your feelings.
As women and mothers, it’s easy to prioritize the needs of others, often leading to disconnection from ourselves. It’s important to challenge that impulse and prioritize your own well-being. I offer counseling in a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your unique narrative and the complexities of your emotions.
I also incorporate EMDR therapy to help process and heal from past experiences, along with creative methods that facilitate a more expressive exploration of your feelings.
As women and mothers, it’s easy to prioritize the needs of others, often leading to disconnection from ourselves. It’s important to challenge that impulse and prioritize your own well-being. I offer counseling in a safe and supportive environment where you can explore your unique narrative and the complexities of your emotions.
(309) 204-9546 View (309) 204-9546
Photo of Gregory Franklin Jenkins, Counselor, MA, LCPC
Gregory Franklin Jenkins
Counselor, MA, LCPC
Normal, IL 61761
By utilizing a variety of approaches and interventions, such as: EMDR, Theraplay, TRBI, Mindfulness, CBT, Sand Tray-based Therapy, and Neurofeedback, Greg equips trauma survivors with the space, support, and skills necessary to identify triggers, develop healthy coping skills, decrease traumatic symptoms, and practice trauma processing and integration.
Greg specializes in trauma-focused therapy for children 10 & up, adolescents, and adults. For those who have experienced childhood trauma, relational trauma, or complex trauma, life often feels overwhelming. Their sense of self, relationships, & view of the past, present, & future become rocky at best. As a result many trauma survivors live in chronic state of anxiety, depression, numbness, fatigue, burn out & suffer from illness. In addition to trauma survivors, Greg works closely with children, teens, young adults, & adoptive families struggling with depression, anxiety, dissociation, mood disorders, behavioral issues & more.
By utilizing a variety of approaches and interventions, such as: EMDR, Theraplay, TRBI, Mindfulness, CBT, Sand Tray-based Therapy, and Neurofeedback, Greg equips trauma survivors with the space, support, and skills necessary to identify triggers, develop healthy coping skills, decrease traumatic symptoms, and practice trauma processing and integration.
Greg specializes in trauma-focused therapy for children 10 & up, adolescents, and adults. For those who have experienced childhood trauma, relational trauma, or complex trauma, life often feels overwhelming. Their sense of self, relationships, & view of the past, present, & future become rocky at best. As a result many trauma survivors live in chronic state of anxiety, depression, numbness, fatigue, burn out & suffer from illness. In addition to trauma survivors, Greg works closely with children, teens, young adults, & adoptive families struggling with depression, anxiety, dissociation, mood disorders, behavioral issues & more.
(309) 865-5242 View (309) 865-5242
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.