EMDR Therapy in Chicago

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. That’s a mouthful, but here’s the simple version: it’s a powerful type of therapy that helps your brain process tough memories so they stop feeling so raw or overwhelming.

Whether it’s something big like a traumatic event or something that just won’t stop bugging you (like a painful breakup or a stressful job situation), EMDR helps your brain file those memories away properly—so they’re not constantly popping up and messing with your peace of mind.

How Does EMDR Work?

Here’s the short version: while you briefly focus on a tough memory or feeling, we use something called bilateral stimulation—that just means back-and-forth movements, like eye movements, tapping, or sounds in each ear. Why does that matter? Because it mimics what your brain does during REM sleep—that deep sleep stage where your eyes move side to side. During REM sleep, your brain naturally processes and sorts through emotional experiences. EMDR taps into that same process while you’re awake, helping your brain do its emotional “clean-up” in real time.

It’s like giving your brain the chance to refile a messy memory so it stops feeling so sharp or triggering. You’re fully awake and in control the whole time. Most people find it surprisingly calming, and over time, things that used to feel overwhelming just don’t pack the same emotional punch anymore.

What Can EMDR Help With?

Lots of things. If you’re in Chicago and struggling with:

  • Anxiety or panic
  • Trauma or PTSD
  • Childhood stuff that still affects you today
  • Phobias (flying, driving, etc.)
  • Grief or loss
  • Relationship issues or emotional triggers
  • Low self-esteem

EMDR therapy might be a good fit.
It’s especially helpful if you know where your struggles are coming from but can’t seem to move past them, no matter
how hard you try.

EMDR Therapy in Chicago That Actually Feels Human

I get it—therapy can feel intimidating. But my approach is super down-to-earth. I’m not here to analyze you or “fix” you. I’m here to help you feel more like yourself again.
Whether you’re walking through trauma, stress, anxiety, or just feel off lately, you don’t have to do it alone. My office is based in Chicago, and I offer both in-person and online EMDR sessions to make things as easy as possible for you.

Ready to Feel Better?

If you’re curious about EMDR therapy in Chicago and want to know if it’s right for you, I’d love to chat. You can book a free consultation or send me a message with any questions.