EMDR Therapy
in Naperville, IL.
Heal from the past without reliving it — Advanced care in Naperville
EMDR is a powerful, evidence-based therapy that helps your brain process 'stuck' memories. It allows you to heal from trauma without having to talk about every painful detail. At Ascend Therapy, we offer specialized EMDR treatment in a safe, professional setting.
Advanced Trauma Recovery with EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an extensively researched, evidence-based psychotherapy designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories. At Ascend Therapy, we go beyond basic counseling to offer this advanced modality.
- Bilateral Stimulation: We use guided eye movements, tapping, or audio tones to activate your brain's natural information processing system.
- Memory Desensitization: We help your brain "digest" stuck memories so they become stories from the past, rather than present-day threats.
- Multiple Specialists: With two EMDR-trained therapists on our team, we offer greater availability and expert care for complex trauma and PTSD.
- Faster Resolution: Many clients experience significant relief in fewer sessions compared to standard talk therapy.
A Safe Space for Healing in Naperville
Processing trauma requires an environment that feels 100% safe and secure. Our clinic, located on Ogden Avenue (East adjacent to Andy's Frozen Custard), provides a quiet, professional sanctuary away from the noise of downtown.
Situated between Washington and Columbia St, our office features plenty of free on-site parking and a private entrance, ensuring your path to healing is as stress-free as possible. We understand the unique needs of our Naperville neighbors and provide a clinical setting that matches the high standard of care you deserve.
The 8 Phases
A structured path to healing.
EMDR follows a structured, eight-phase protocol to ensure thorough and safe processing.
History
Gathering background and identifying targets for processing.
Preparation
Learning coping skills and establishing stability before processing.
Assessment
Activating the specific memory and its components (image, belief, feeling).
Desensitization
Using eye movements to work through the memory until distress drops.
Installation
Strengthening positive self-beliefs alongside the memory.
Body Scan
Ensuring no physical tension remains attached to the memory.
Closure
Returning to equilibrium at the end of every session.
Reevaluation
Assessing what changed and identifying the next target.
Beyond Just PTSD
What EMDR treats.
While developed for trauma, EMDR is effective for many conditions rooted in difficult life experiences.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions.
No. You remain in control throughout the process. While you may experience brief moments of emotional intensity, most people find EMDR less distressing than talking about trauma in detail.
No. You are fully awake, alert, and in control during EMDR. You can stop at any time. It relies on your brain's natural healing mechanisms, not suggestion.
Many people experience significant relief in fewer sessions than traditional therapy. Single-incident traumas (like a car accident) often resolve in 3-10 sessions. Complex, childhood trauma typically takes longer.
No! This is one of the biggest benefits of EMDR. We don't need all the details of the story. We focus on the memory, the emotion, and the body sensation, but you don't have to verbally retell the trauma.
Our Specialists
Meet your EMDR therapists.
We feature multiple therapists with specialized EMDR training to ensure you receive expert trauma care.
Sara Banks, LCSW
Specialties
Practice owner and EMDR-trained specialist in anxiety, OCD, and trauma recovery.
Takeisha Rheams, LCPC
Specialties
EMDR-trained therapist specializing in trauma, complex PTSD, and high-pressure life transitions.
Ready to Leave the Past Behind?
Your past doesn't have to dictate your future. Expert EMDR care is available right here in Naperville.