EMDR Therapy in Illinois

Here at Nave Wellness Center, we work from a trauma-focused lens. This means that we recognize that many people have experienced distressing events at various points in their lives. Oftentimes, these traumas influence how individuals function in the present. They might not even be aware that their past experiences are having such a negative impact and hinder their ability to flourish. Luckily, these problems can be addressed with modern therapeutic methods. EMDR is one of the most effective techniques for dealing with trauma and restoring mental wellness.

What Is EMDR?

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized form of trauma-related therapy. It involves briefly focusing on the distressing memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements). This enables the vividness of emotions associated with the trauma to be reduced. EMDR is a thoroughly researched, evidence-based psychotherapy method that helps people recover from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and recurring distressing feelings.

Who Can Benefit From EMDR?

EMDR is designed for individuals of all ages, including children. Our therapists use this technique to address a wide range of challenges like:

EMDR Therapy: How It Works?

EMDR incorporates elements of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) alongside bilateral stimulation, often through guided eye movements, to facilitate the reprocessing of traumatic experiences. Nave Wellness Center offers these treatments through online or in-person meetings. Below is a breakdown of the main steps involved in an EMDR session:

5. Installation

Once the intensity of the memory has decreased, the installation phase focuses on reinforcing positive beliefs to replace the negative ones. For example, the patient might replace “I am powerless” with “I am in control” or “I am safe now.” Bilateral stimulation continues during this phase to help the individual internalize these positive beliefs, fostering a shift in their self-image and perception of the trauma. The procedure activates the natural healing process within the patient’s psyche.

6. Body Scan

The body scan phase involves the patient mentally scanning their body to identify any physical tension or discomfort related to the traumatic memory. Our EMDR-trained therapist helps the individual process these body sensations using bilateral stimulation, which can further reduce any lingering distress. The goal is to promote overall physical and emotional relief.

7. Closure

At the end of each therapy session, we ensure the patient returns to a calm and stable state. This phase may involve relaxation exercises, grounding techniques, or simply allowing the individual to reflect on their progress. Our therapist provides reassurance and guidance, ensuring the patient feels centered before leaving the session.

8. Reevaluation

The reevaluation phase occurs at the beginning of subsequent meetings to assess progress in processing previous memories. Our therapist checks in with the patient to see if any residual distress remains and whether new issues have emerged. We may revisit memories or reprocess elements that require further attention.

By following these structured phases, EMDR therapy helps individuals deal with their traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and allowing for healthier psychological functioning.

1. History & Treatment Planning

The first phase of EMDR therapy involves a comprehensive assessment. Our therapist takes a detailed history of the patient’s past experiences, including trauma and current mental health concerns. We identify specific memories that need processing and develop an individualized treatment plan. This stage also includes establishing a trusting relationship.

2. Preparation

The preparation phase involves teaching the patient self-soothing and coping skills to manage emotional distress that may arise during trauma therapy. This includes grounding techniques, breathing exercises, and other mechanisms to ensure the individual feels comfortable and secure. It helps build confidence and readiness for the more profound emotional work ahead.

3. Assessment

During the assessment phase, our therapist and patient identify a target memory of traumatic events to work on. The individual is asked to recall their memory and associated negative beliefs about themselves, such as “I am powerless” or “I am unworthy.” Our therapist helps the patient rate the intensity of their distress using the Subjective Units of Disturbance Scale (SUDS) or other instruments, which will be used throughout the treatment process to monitor progress.

4. Desensitization

In the desensitization phase, we guide the patient through bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, taps, or sounds. The traumatic memory becomes less vivid and distressing as the individual focuses on it while receiving stimulation. The goal is to reduce the emotional charge, allowing the patient to reframe the experience with a healthier perspective.

1. History & Treatment Planning

2. Preparation

3. Assessment

4. Desensitization

5. Installation

6. Body Scan

7. Closure

8. Reevaluation

By following these structured phases, EMDR therapy helps individuals deal with their traumatic memories, reducing their emotional charge and allowing for healthier psychological functioning.

Recovery After EMDR Therapy

Recovery after EMDR therapy varies widely from person to person and can occur over different timeframes. It is common for patients to experience temporary increases in emotional intensity, vivid dreams, or heightened awareness of trauma-related thoughts following sessions. These reactions are usually short-lived and subside within 24-72 hours after treatment. However, their duration and intensity depend on the individual’s trauma history and the specific target memories being processed.

Physical Symptoms During Recovery

Physical symptoms, such as fatigue, headaches, or light-headedness, can occur during recovery as the body and mind process emotional material. It is also common for some individuals to feel emotionally drained or vulnerable immediately after sessions. These effects are usually temporary and a part of the body’s adjustment to the intense emotional work of EMDR therapy. As the processing continues, the symptoms typically diminish.

Continued Processing Between Sessions

EMDR is an active therapy, meaning the process can continue between sessions. Over time, clients may notice changes in how they perceive past events. Memories might become less distressing, and new insights or perspectives could emerge as the brain reprocesses and integrates the traumatic material. These effects can be gradual and unfold in the days following a session.

Sleep Disruptions

Sleep disturbances are commonly reported during the recovery phase. Some individuals may need to rest more than usual as their body and mind recover from the emotional work of the session. Others might struggle with insomnia or disrupted sleep patterns. These disturbances typically resolve as treatment progresses, though patients must monitor their habits and address any issues with our therapist if they persist.

Role of Support Systems

A strong support system is vital for individuals undergoing EMDR therapy, particularly during the recovery phase. Access to reliable emotional support — whether from family, friends, or our therapists — can help stabilize mood fluctuations and manage temporary distress. Establishing a sense of safety and maintaining regular daily routines are also crucial in regaining emotional balance. We recommend scheduling downtime after sessions to allow for proper rest and integration of the therapeutic work.

Gradual Improvement and Adjustment

The recovery trajectory from EMDR therapy is typically gradual, with patients experiencing a decrease in emotional intensity related to traumatic memories over time. Some individuals report rapid improvement, while others may require a more extended adjustment period, especially if they are processing deeply entrenched or complex trauma. As the nervous system adapts to the treatment’s effects, the ability to manage stress and emotional triggers often increases. The pace of recovery is individual, but overall, we encouraged people to approach the process with patience and persistence.

Benefits of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

Reduced Physical Symptoms

Many people experience a decrease in physical symptoms associated with anxiety and trauma after EMDR treatment. These improvements can include reduced muscle tension, better sleep patterns, fewer headaches, and decreased gastrointestinal issues often accompanying psychological distress.

Long-Lasting Effects

The positive changes achieved through EMDR therapy tend to be permanent. Once traumatic memories are adequately processed and stored in the brain, they typically do not return to their previous distressing state, leading to sustained improvement in emotional well-being.

Minimal Side Effects

Unlike medication-based treatments, EMDR therapy has very few side effects. While some individuals may experience temporary emotional intensity during or immediately after sessions, these effects typically subside quickly.

Faster Results Than Traditional Talk Therapy

Unlike traditional talk therapy, which may require months or years of sessions, EMDR often shows significant results in fewer meetings. This accelerated healing process occurs because EMDR directly addresses the neural networks where distressing memories are stored, allowing for quicker processing and resolution of emotional difficulties.

Safer Processing of Traumatic Memories

EMDR allows individuals to process traumatic memories without having to discuss them in detail. The bilateral stimulation helps the brain reprocess these experiences while maintaining emotional distance, reducing the risk of re-traumatization when verbally recounting difficult experiences.

Enhanced Self-Awareness

Through EMDR therapy, individuals often develop a deeper understanding of their emotional responses and thought patterns. This increased self-awareness helps them recognize triggers and develop more effective coping mechanisms for future challenges.

Faster Results Than Traditional Talk Therapy

Safer Processing of Traumatic Memories

Enhanced Self-Awareness

Reduced Physical Symptoms

Long-Lasting Effects

Minimal Side Effects

Cost of EMDR Therapy in Illinois

The cost of EMDR therapy in Illinois ranges from $100 to $250 per session. The exact price varies depending on the therapist’s experience level, location within the state (with Chicago-area practitioners typically charging higher rates), and whether the provider is in-network with insurance companies. While some insurance plans cover EMDR therapy, others may consider it experimental and deny reimbursement, requiring people to pay out-of-pocket. Our professional team helps patients navigate their insurance benefits and explore self-pay options if needed.

What Makes Our EMDR Therapy Different From Others?

Nave Wellness Center distinguishes itself through its comprehensive approach to EMDR therapy, integrating this treatment seamlessly with its core values of navigation, acceptance, and empowerment. Our unique framework combines personalized mental health services with a deep understanding of trauma healing, creating an environment where patients can safely process their past experiences. We offer both virtual and in-person EMDR sessions through a user-friendly portal system. Our compassionate team ensures that each individual’s therapy journey is supported by a holistic wellness approach that celebrates their unique personhood and potential for growth.

Get started on your path toward wellness today!

For more information about EMDR, visit the EMDR International Association website.