EMDR Therapy in Chicago – Trauma-Informed Healing That Works
Are you struggling with the lasting impact of trauma, anxiety, or painful memories that won’t go away—no matter how hard you try?
I’m Ivone Gutierrez, LCPC, a certified EMDR therapist in Chicago with 13 years of experience as a therapist and 9 years specializing in EMDR. I help adults heal from trauma, anxiety, and emotional wounds.
What is EMDR?
EMDR (Eye Movement and Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a brain based therapy that helps people process and heal from traumatic and distressing memories. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR targets how traumatic memories are stored in the brain and body, using bilateral stimulation—such as light, tapping, or sound—to help the brain reprocess “stuck” memories.
Through EMDR, your brain is able to complete its natural healing process. You will still remember the event, but the emotional pain and intensity connected to the memory will begin to fade.
EMDR is backed by extensive research and is recognized as an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD by:
The American Psychiatric Association
The American Psychological Association
The World Health Organization (WHO)
What can EMDR help with?
EMDR can facilitate healing from various traumatic events and life stressors including:
Childhood Trauma and Emotional Neglect
PTSD
Sexual Abuse or Assault
Anxiety and Panic Attacks
Phobias (flying, animals, etc)
Performance Anxiety (work, sports, public speaking)
Victim of Violence
Medical Trauma
Accidents
My Approach to EMDR in Therapy
As someone with nearly a decade of experience using EMDR, I offer a safe and grounded approach tailored to your individual needs. I often integrate EMDR into my trauma work alongside parts work for inner child healing, mindfulness, and self-worth development. My clients have reported feeling more at peace, more in control of their lives, and finally free from painful patterns that once held them back.
EMDR therapy with me is available virtually, which is as effective as in person EMDR. If you are interested in EMDR, we can discuss your goals and determine if EMDR is a good fit for your unique needs.