Chicago Spotlight: How EMDR Therapy Helps Trauma Survivors in Chicago

What Is EMDR—and Why It Matters

EMDR—Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing—is a powerful therapy designed to help the brain process traumatic memories. During sessions, a therapist guides clients through bilateral stimulation—such as side-to-side eye movements or gentle tapping—while the client recalls distressing experiences. Over time, this method has shown effectiveness comparable to trauma-focused CBT and is endorsed as a top treatment for PTSD by global bodies like the WHO and U.S. VA/DoD. Many Chicago therapists report dramatic breakthroughs: “EMDR therapy for PTSD in Chicago has in many ways overturned decades of research which had branded several types of PTSD as incurable”.

Quotes from Chicago-Based EMDR Practitioners

Paula Merucci, LCSW, EMDR Chicago

“Complex PTSD may require significant time in Phases 1 & 2, focusing on stabilization.”

Chicago EMDR Center

“We practice EMDR because it is one of the quickest, deepest, most effective, and lasting treatment we've found for limiting thoughts, doubt, and fear.”

InnerVoice PC (Chicago)

“EMDR therapy for PTSD in Chicago has... overturned decades of research which had branded several types of PTSD as incurable.” 

These insights illustrate how Chicago-based practitioners utilize EMDR in both trauma-specific and broader anxiety contexts.

Chicago Clinics Offering EMDR Therapy

Here are trusted trauma-care providers in Chicago:

• Chicago EMDR Center (Evanston & Downtown): Specializes in complex trauma and leadership-focused EMDR

• InnerVoice PC: Licensed therapists offering EMDR for PTSD, anxiety, and depression

• Chicago EMDR: Provides EMDR for PTSD, anxiety, and negative beliefs, with statements like “EMDR… remove the sting of past experiences” 

• Psychology Today Listings: Highlights therapists like Dr. Michael Feinstein (PsyD) and Courtney Domenico (PsyD), both using EMDR for trauma & anxiety

These widely available services enable clients to find urban or suburban-based practitioners suited to their specific needs.

Success Stories: EMDR in Action

Hearing how EMDR changed lives can be deeply validating. The EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) produced a film featuring clients—including veterans and survivors—sharing experiences like:

“I don’t think I’ll ever be a hundred percent, but I’ve definitely come so far.”“Our brain is a very natural healing mechanism... EMDR gives people their lives back.”

In Chicago, InnerVoice PC reports cases where clients overcame chronic PTSD, anxiety, or grief, restored relationships, and regained emotional balance.

How EMDR Works: Eight Healing Phases

Therapy unfolds in structured stages:

1. History & Assessment – Identify trauma targets

2. Preparation – Build coping tools

3. Assessment – Select precise memory and negative belief

4. Desensitization – Bilateral stimulation while recalling trauma

5. Installation – Reinforce a positive belief

6. Body Scan – Release residual tension

7. Closure – Grounding exercises

8. Reevaluation – Track changes in later sessions

Many clients report relief within just a few sessions—90% no longer meet PTSD criteria after a single trauma, and 77% of PTSD cases improve significantly in three EMDR sessions.

Chicago-Focused EMDR Resources

• Trainings & Consultations: EMDR Chicago (Evanston) offers workshops for clinicians and supports community awareness

• Virtual/Hybrid Therapy: Many Chicago EMDR therapists (e.g., InnerVoice PC) offer remote sessions

Integrating EMDR with Therapy at Full Circle

At Full Circle Counseling & Wellness, clinicians in Frankfort offering telehealth and in-person sessions can integrate EMDR into treatment clients already trust for anxiety, trauma, and holistic growth. By sharing Chicago success stories and collaborating with EMDR-certified therapist networks, Full Circle can expand its reach and specialize in trauma-focused care.

Key Takeaways

• EMDR is a scientifically backed, fast-acting method for trauma and anxiety healing

• Chicago-area practitioners (like Paula Merucci and InnerVoice PC) see incredible success in treating complex PTSD

• Structured, eight-phase approach helps clients process trauma carefully and thoroughly

• Local clinics offer EMDR in varied formats—urban, suburban, and virtual 

• Success stories highlight how clients reclaim joy, connection, and safety through EMDR 

Ready to Explore EMDR in Chicago?

If trauma or past pain still impacts you, consider EMDR therapy. At Full Circle Counseling & Wellness, we collaborate with EMDR-trained clinicians and can offer local referrals or virtual EMDR services to support your healing journey.