emdr therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective form of treatment for healing emotional distress stemming from trauma. It is a fast-acting and internal approach – no traditional talk therapy needed. This is desirable for many because talking about traumatic memories can be overwhelming, emotionally exhausting, and potentially even re-traumatizing.
who would benefit?
EMDR is most widely used for those suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD); however, it works well for an array of mental health conditions. This is because many mental health issues people face are a result of trauma. If you experience any of the conditions below, EMDR may be a form of therapy to consider:
Trauma (acute or chronic)
Anxiety (generalized, social, phobias)
Depression (single or multiple episodes)
Grief
Dissociation
Obsessions/compulsions
Eating disorders
Personality disorders
how does it work?
When working with an EMDR therapist, you will be led toward specific memories and details of your trauma experience in brief doses, all the while focusing on an external stimulus. The most common external stimulus is therapist-directed eye movements with a light. A therapist might also use tappers, buzzers, or pulsers for bilateral stimulation. What matters most is that your mind and body experience rhythmic, left to right stimulation while processing the memory.
By doing this, you are able to reprocess your trauma in a way that allows for long-term healing. Trauma memories come with difficult feelings, emotions, and beliefs. Through guided instruction and bilateral stimulation, research shows that (1) affective distress is reduced, (2) negative beliefs are reconstructed, and (3) physiological arousal is relieved.
how do i start?
We have skilled and compassionate EMDR-trained therapists on staff:
Reach out to us today if you are interested in learning more. We would love to be your guide in your healing journey.
Let’s talk
Please fill out the form below or give us a call at 312-620-8836 to set up an in-person at our Chicago office or telehealth session.
Cancellation policy
We prioritize our clients by holding space for each person we see. When clients cancel an appointment, our clinicians offer that space to other clients who need an appointment that week. When clients cancel within 24-hours or do not show, other clients miss out on an opportunity to be seen.
If you do not cancel your scheduled therapy appointment and have not notified us at least 24 business hours in advance, you will be required to pay the full cost of the session.