EMDR Therapy in Chicago: Fast, Effective Trauma Treatment

What Is EMDR?

How was EMDR developed?

EMDR was developed in 1987 by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro specifically to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Dr. Shapiro discovered that certain eye movements could reduce the intensity of disturbing thoughts.

Since then, over 30 years of research has validated EMDR’s effectiveness for trauma and expanded its use to anxiety disorders, depression, phobias, and other conditions.

What organizations recognize EMDR as effective?

EMDR therapy is recognized as an effective treatment by:

• American Psychiatric Association (APA)
• American Psychological Association
• World Health Organization (WHO) – Designated EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD in 2013
• U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – One of only two recommended treatments for combat-related PTSD
• International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies

How does EMDR work?

EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. Here’s the science in simple terms:

1. When you experience trauma, your brain’s natural processing system can become overwhelmed, causing memories to get “stuck” with all the original distress, emotions, and physical sensations intact.

2. During EMDR therapy, you briefly focus on a traumatic memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation—typically by following your therapist’s hand movements with your eyes (though tapping or auditory tones also work).

3. This bilateral stimulation activates both hemispheres of your brain, similar to what happens during REM sleep when your brain naturally processes emotions and memories.

4. Your brain then “digests” the memory, integrating it into your normal memory network. The memory itself doesn’t disappear, but the emotional intensity and distress diminish significantly.

What does the research say?

A comprehensive 2014 meta-analysis published in Psychological Medicine compared EMDR to trauma-focused cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for PTSD treatment. Key findings:

• Both EMDR and trauma-focused CBT showed large effect sizes in reducing PTSD symptoms
• 84-90% of single-trauma victims no longer met PTSD criteria after three 90-minute EMDR sessions
• EMDR showed effectiveness even without homework assignments between sessions
• Benefits were maintained at follow-up assessments

Source: Chen, Y. R., et al. (2014). Comparing the efficacy of EMDR and trauma-focused cognitive-behavioral therapy in the treatment of PTSD: a meta-analytic study. Psychological Medicine, 44(4), 675-691.

EMDR vs. Other Therapies: What’s the Difference?

FACTOR	EMDR THERAPY	TRADITIONAL TALK THERAPY	COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY (CBT)
Typical Duration	6-12 sessions for single trauma; 12-20+ for complex trauma	Months to years	12-20 sessions typically
Requires Detailed Description of Trauma?	No – only brief focus on memory	Yes – detailed discussion often required	Sometimes – depends on approach
How It Works	Reprocesses how traumatic memories are stored in the brain	Insight and understanding through conversation	Changes thought patterns and behaviors
Homework Between Sessions	Minimal to none	Variable	Often required for best results
Best For	PTSD, trauma, phobias, anxiety with traumatic roots	General exploration, relationship issues, life transitions	Anxiety disorders, depression, OCD, skill-building
Evidence Level	Strong – Recommended by WHO, APA, VA	Variable depending on specific approach	Very Strong – Gold standard for many conditions

Who Should Try EMDR Therapy in Chicago?

Is EMDR only for PTSD and trauma?

No. While EMDR was originally developed for PTSD, research over the past 30+ years has shown it’s effective for many mental health conditions. At Calm Anxiety Clinic in Chicago, we use EMDR to treat:

Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

Success rate: 84-90% no longer meet PTSD criteria after 3 sessions (single-trauma cases)

Treats: Flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance, emotional numbness

Types of trauma: Combat, assault, accidents, childhood trauma, medical trauma, witnessing violence

Anxiety Disorders

Effective for: Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety, health anxiety, panic disorder

How it helps: Targets root experiences that contribute to chronic worry and fear

Best combined with: CBT for comprehensive anxiety management

Learn more about our Chicago anxiety treatment →

Panic Attacks & Panic Disorder

How EMDR helps: Desensitizes triggers and memories associated with panic

Results: Reduces both frequency and intensity of panic attacks

Typical timeline: Many clients see improvement within 6-10 sessions

Learn more about our Chicago panic attack treatment →

Phobias & Specific Fears

Common phobias treated: Flying, dogs, medical procedures, enclosed spaces, heights

Approach: Reprocesses underlying traumatic memories that created the fear response

Timeline: Some specific phobias resolve in 3-6 sessions

Depression

When EMDR helps most: Depression linked to past negative experiences, loss, or trauma

What it addresses: Underlying traumatic memories contributing to hopelessness and low mood

Often combined with: CBT for thought patterns and behavioral activation

Performance Anxiety

Common in Chicago professionals: Public speaking, presentations, high-stakes meetings

Also treats: Sports performance blocks, test anxiety, imposter syndrome

Focus: Addresses beliefs and experiences driving self-doubt

Grief & Loss

Helps with: Complicated grief, traumatic loss, inability to move forward

Types of loss: Death, divorce, job loss, significant life changes

Goal: Process traumatic aspects while honoring the loss

Low Self-Esteem & Negative Self-Beliefs

Core beliefs addressed: “I’m not good enough,” “I’m unlovable,” “I’m powerless”

Approach: Targets formative memories that created these beliefs

Result: Develops healthier, more adaptive self-concept

Chronic Stress & Burnout

Common in: Chicago professionals, healthcare workers, high-achievers

Addresses: Accumulated stress and traumatic workplace experiences

Builds: Resilience for ongoing challenges

What to Expect from EMDR Therapy at Calm Anxiety Clinic

How many EMDR sessions will I need?

What happens in an EMDR therapy session?

EMDR therapy follows an eight-phase protocol developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro. Here’s what you can expect at Calm Anxiety Clinic in Chicago:

Phase 1: History Taking & Treatment Planning (Sessions 1-2)

What happens: Your EMDR therapist learns about your history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. Together you’ll identify specific memories or experiences to target.

Duration: Typically 1-3 sessions

Goal: Ensure EMDR is appropriate for you and create a treatment roadmap

Phase 2: Preparation (Sessions 2-3)

What happens: Your therapist teaches you coping techniques and relaxation strategies (deep breathing, safe place visualization, grounding exercises)

Why it matters: Ensures you have tools to manage any distress during or between sessions

You’ll also learn: Exactly what EMDR involves so you feel comfortable and in control

Phases 3-6: Active Reprocessing (Ongoing sessions)

Phase 3 – Assessment: You identify a specific image, negative belief, and body sensations related to the target memory. Your therapist measures your current distress level (0-10 scale).

Phase 4 – Desensitization: This is where the “eye movement” happens. You’ll briefly focus on the target memory while following bilateral stimulation (usually your therapist’s hand movements). Your therapist will guide you, saying things like “Just notice what comes up” as your brain processes the memory. Sets typically last 30-60 seconds, with breaks in between.

What you might notice: Thoughts, emotions, or physical sensations may shift. The memory may feel less intense. New insights may emerge.

Phase 5 – Installation: Once distress decreases, your therapist helps strengthen a positive belief to replace the old negative one. (Example: changing “I’m powerless” to “I can handle this”)

Phase 6 – Body Scan: You mentally scan your body while thinking of the original memory and positive belief to ensure no physical tension remains.

Phase 7: Closure (End of each session)

What happens: Your therapist ensures you’re feeling calm and grounded before you leave

You’ll receive: Guidance on what to expect between sessions and how to use coping strategies if needed

Important: Even if a session doesn’t feel “complete,” you’ll leave feeling stable

Phase 8: Reevaluation (Start of next session)

What happens: Your therapist checks in on your progress since the last session

Determines: Whether to continue with the current target or move to new memories

Ensures: Treatment is working and adjusts approach as needed

What does bilateral stimulation feel like?

Most commonly used at our Chicago clinic: Eye movements – You’ll follow your therapist’s fingers moving horizontally back and forth, about 12-24 times. It feels similar to watching a slow tennis match.

Alternative options we offer:

• Tactile: Alternating tapping on your hands or knees
• Auditory: Alternating tones in each ear through headphones
• Virtual EMDR: On-screen light bar or audio tones for telehealth sessions

Will I have to talk about the trauma in detail?

Common Questions About EMDR Therapy in Chicago

Does EMDR work for anxiety that isn’t from trauma?

Yes, EMDR can still be effective. Even if you don’t have a clear “traumatic event,” anxiety often stems from accumulated negative experiences, distressing memories, or unhelpful beliefs formed over time. EMDR can target these underlying experiences—such as childhood criticism, embarrassing moments, or times you felt unsafe—that contribute to current anxiety.

Many clients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) or social anxiety benefit from EMDR combined with CBT techniques.

Can EMDR make anxiety worse?

Temporarily, you might feel more emotionally activated, but this is part of the healing process. Some clients experience increased emotions or vivid dreams for a day or two after an EMDR session as their brain continues processing. This is normal and typically subsides quickly.

Your therapist will teach you coping skills during the preparation phase to manage any temporary distress. If you ever feel overwhelmed, you can pause or slow down the pace of treatment. Long-term, EMDR significantly reduces anxiety for most clients.

Does EMDR work the first session?

You likely won’t do memory reprocessing in the first session. The first 1-3 sessions typically involve history-taking, treatment planning, and preparation (learning coping skills).

Active EMDR reprocessing usually begins in sessions 3-4. However, once reprocessing begins, some clients notice improvements quickly—even after a single reprocessing session—though most need several sessions for significant, lasting change.

How much does EMDR therapy cost in Chicago?

At Calm Anxiety CBT Therapy Clinic, we accept Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO insurance, which typically covers EMDR as standard psychotherapy. Your out-of-pocket cost depends on your specific plan’s copay, coinsurance, and whether you’ve met your deductible.

During your free consultation, we’ll verify your insurance benefits and discuss any costs upfront. Standard session fees without insurance vary but are comparable to other specialized therapy services in Chicago.

Is EMDR therapy covered by insurance?

Yes, most insurance plans that cover mental health services cover EMDR therapy. EMDR is billed as psychotherapy (CPT code 90834, 90837, or 90853), the same as other therapy sessions. We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO insurance.

We recommend calling your insurance provider to verify your specific mental health benefits, including copay amounts and any deductible requirements.

Can I do EMDR therapy online/virtually?

Yes, and research shows virtual EMDR is just as effective as in-person. At Calm Anxiety Clinic, we offer secure telehealth EMDR sessions throughout Illinois using online bilateral stimulation tools (on-screen light bars or audio tones).

Many clients actually prefer virtual EMDR for the comfort of processing trauma from their own safe space at home. You’ll need a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a stable internet connection and a quiet, private space for sessions.

What should I expect after my first EMDR session?

After your first reprocessing session, you may feel tired, emotionally relieved, or notice continued processing. Some people experience:

• Feeling emotionally lighter or more at peace
• Fatigue (processing takes mental energy)
• Vivid dreams or new insights in the following days
• Temporary increase in emotions as processing continues
• Physical relaxation or release of tension

Your therapist will prepare you for what to expect and provide coping strategies. Most clients find any temporary discomfort is worth the lasting relief they experience.

Does EMDR erase memories?

No, EMDR does not erase memories. You will still remember what happened to you. What changes is how the memory is stored in your brain and how you react to it emotionally. After successful EMDR, clients typically describe the memory as feeling more distant, less emotionally charged, or “just something that happened in the past” rather than something that feels present and threatening. The facts remain; the emotional intensity diminishes.

How long do EMDR results last?

Research shows EMDR results are long-lasting. Follow-up studies demonstrate that improvements from EMDR therapy are maintained months and even years after treatment ends. Because EMDR changes how memories are stored in your brain—rather than just teaching coping skills—the reprocessing work is permanent. However, if you experience new traumas or significant stressors, you may benefit from additional EMDR sessions in the future.

Is EMDR better than CBT?

Neither is universally “better”—they serve different purposes and work well together. EMDR excels at reprocessing traumatic memories and is often faster for PTSD treatment. CBT excels at building practical coping skills and addressing current thought patterns and behaviors.

Research shows both are highly effective. At Calm Anxiety Clinic, we often integrate both approaches: EMDR to process underlying trauma and CBT to develop ongoing anxiety management skills. The best approach depends on your specific needs and goals.

Who should not do EMDR therapy?

EMDR may not be appropriate if you:

• Are currently in crisis or experiencing active suicidal ideation (stabilization needed first)
• Have uncontrolled severe dissociation
• Have certain neurological conditions that make bilateral stimulation difficult
• Are currently using substances that significantly impair memory or processing
• Have severe, unstable mental health conditions requiring higher level of care first

Your therapist will assess whether EMDR is safe and appropriate during your initial consultation. Sometimes other stabilization work or treatment is needed before beginning EMDR.

Can EMDR help with nightmares?

Yes, EMDR is highly effective for trauma-related nightmares. Nightmares are often your brain’s way of trying to process unresolved traumatic memories. By reprocessing these memories through EMDR, many clients experience significant reduction or complete elimination of recurring nightmares. Research specifically shows

EMDR reduces nightmare frequency in PTSD patients. If nightmares are a major symptom for you, mention this to your therapist so it can be tracked as treatment progresses.

What is the success rate of EMDR therapy?

EMDR has a high success rate, particularly for PTSD and trauma. Research shows:

• 84-90% of single-trauma PTSD patients no longer meet diagnostic criteria after three 90-minute sessions
• 77% of combat veterans showed significant PTSD improvement after 12 sessions
• Multiple studies demonstrate 84-100% of single-trauma patients achieved significant improvement within 3-6 sessions
• Benefits are maintained at long-term follow-up assessments

Success rates vary based on trauma complexity, treatment adherence, and individual factors, but EMDR consistently shows strong effectiveness across diverse populations.

How quickly does EMDR work compared to other therapies?

EMDR often works faster than traditional talk therapy. For single-trauma PTSD, meaningful improvement typically occurs within 3-6 sessions. Complex trauma may require 12-20+ sessions.

In comparison, traditional therapy for trauma often takes months to years. One key advantage: EMDR doesn’t require extensive homework between sessions, making it more time-efficient for busy Chicago professionals and families.

Can EMDR be combined with medication?

Yes, EMDR can be safely combined with psychiatric medication. Many clients take antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, or other psychiatric medications while doing EMDR therapy.

You should continue any prescribed medications unless your prescribing physician advises otherwise. Some clients find they can reduce or discontinue medications after successful EMDR treatment, but this decision should always be made in consultation with your prescriber.

What credentials should an EMDR therapist have?

Look for a licensed mental health professional with formal EMDR training. Qualified EMDR therapists should have:

• A professional license (Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Professional Counselor, etc.)
• Completion of an EMDRIA-approved EMDR basic training (typically 40+ hours)
• Supervised experience providing EMDR therapy
• Ideally, certification through EMDRIA (EMDR International Association)

Our therapists at Calm Anxiety CBT Therapy Clinic are licensed professionals with formal EMDR training.

Why Choose Calm Anxiety CBT Therapy Clinic for EMDR in Chicago?

What makes Calm Anxiety Clinic different from other EMDR providers in Chicago?

✓ Our Therapists EMDR-Trained

Unlike clinics where only some therapists offer EMDR, every therapist at Calm Anxiety Clinic is trained in EMDR therapy. This means you have multiple providers to choose from and can find the best fit for your schedule and therapeutic preferences.

✓ Evidence-Based Specialty

We exclusively use scientifically-validated treatment approaches. EMDR, CBT, and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP) are all backed by extensive research. You won’t find unproven or pseudo-scientific methods here—only therapies with proven track records.

✓ Integrated Treatment Approach

We combine EMDR with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based approaches for comprehensive care. This integration addresses both underlying trauma (EMDR) and current symptoms and skill-building (CBT).

✓ Chicago-Specific Expertise

We specialize in working with high-achieving adults, busy professionals, and families navigating the unique stressors of Chicago life. Whether you’re dealing with career burnout in the Loop, parental anxiety in Lincoln Park, or trauma from urban experiences, we understand your context.

✓ Flexible Virtual & In-Person Options

Virtual EMDR: Secure telehealth sessions available throughout Illinois
In-Person: Convenient Lakeview office with easy access to public transit and parking
Your choice: Switch between formats based on your needs

✓ Insurance Accepted

We accept Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO insurance to make high-quality EMDR therapy accessible and affordable for Chicago families and professionals. We’ll verify your benefits during your free consultation.

✓ Diverse Communities Served

From Lakeview and Lincoln Park to the Loop and Wicker Park, we serve clients across Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. We offer culturally-informed care including LGBTQ+ affirming therapy.

See all Chicago neighborhoods we serve →

✓ Free Initial Consultation

We offer a free consultation to discuss your needs, answer questions, verify insurance, and determine if EMDR is the right fit for you. No pressure, no commitment—just helpful information to make an informed decision.

About Calm Anxiety CBT Therapy Clinic

Calm Anxiety CBT Therapy Clinic is a specialized mental health practice located in Lakeview, Chicago, Illinois. We focus exclusively on evidence-based treatment for anxiety disorders, trauma, and related conditions using scientifically-validated approaches including EMDR therapy, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP).

Location: 3354 N. Paulina St, STE 209, Chicago, IL 60657 [see us on Google maps]
Phone: 773.234.1350
Service Area: Chicago and surrounding areas (virtual appointments available throughout Illinois)
Insurance Accepted: Blue Cross Blue Shield PPO
Appointment Types: In-person and secure telehealth

Our Clinical Team

Therapists at Calm Anxiety CBT Therapy Clinic are:

• Licensed mental health professionals in Illinois
• Trained in EMDR therapy
• Specialized in evidence-based treatments for anxiety and trauma
• Experienced working with Chicago-area professionals, families, and high-achievers
• Committed to ongoing professional development and training in the latest research

Professional Affiliations & Recognition

Many of our therapists maintain memberships and training through:

• EMDR International Association (EMDRIA)
• American Psychological Association (APA)
• Anxiety and Depression Association of America (ADAA)
• International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS)

EMDR Therapy Locations Served in Chicago

Where do you provide EMDR therapy in Chicago?

Our main office is located in Lakeview, Chicago, making us easily accessible to residents throughout the North Side and downtown. We provide EMDR therapy to individuals and families in:

• Lakeview – Main office location – In-person appointments available
• Lincoln Park – Serving families & professionals
• Wicker Park – LGBTQ+ affirming care
• Logan Square – Creative professionals
• Bucktown – Parental anxiety support
• Lincoln Square – Family-focused care
• Streeterville – Healthcare professionals
• The Loop / Downtown – Corporate burnout treatment
• River North – Young professionals
• Gold Coast – Convenient downtown access

View all Chicago neighborhoods we serve →

Do you offer virtual EMDR therapy for people outside of Chicago?

Yes, we provide secure virtual EMDR therapy throughout Illinois. If you live in the suburbs or anywhere else in Illinois, you can access our EMDR services via telehealth. Virtual EMDR is research-proven to be just as effective as in-person treatment.

Start Your EMDR Therapy Journey in Chicago Today

You don’t have to keep living with the weight of trauma, anxiety, or painful memories. EMDR therapy can help you heal faster than you might expect—often in just 6-12 sessions for single-trauma cases.

Call 773.234.1350

What Happens Next?

1. Contact us: Fill out our form or call 773.234.1350
2. Free consultation: Discuss your needs with an EMDR therapist
3. Insurance verification: We’ll check your Blue Cross Blue Shield coverage
4. Start treatment: Begin your personalized EMDR therapy plan
5. Experience relief: Process trauma and reclaim your life

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