At First Response Therapy PLLC in New Lenox, IL, we offer a powerful, research-supported approach that helps adults and first responders process trauma, emotional pain, and distressing memories. This treatment supports the brain’s ability to heal and allows clients to move forward with greater clarity and emotional relief. This structured method supports healing and is often used as part of a broader treatment plan for PTSD, anxiety, depression, and unresolved stress.

We also offer EMDR as a collaborative service for individuals who are already working with another talk therapist. If you’re looking to integrate EMDR into your existing therapy work, we are happy to coordinate with your current provider to ensure cohesive, supportive care.

What Happens in a Session?

During sessions, your therapist will guide you through gentle bilateral stimulation—such as eye movements, tapping, or sounds—to help your brain process difficult memories in a new and more adaptive way. This may involve handheld tappers or simple visual tools in the office. These techniques are designed to help release “stuck” experiences so they can be reprocessed with less emotional intensity.

As you focus on the memory, you may notice changes in thoughts, emotions, or body sensations. Your therapist will check in with you throughout the session, and you remain fully in control—you can pause or stop at any time. The goal is for the memory to feel less overwhelming and for unhelpful beliefs to be replaced with more empowering ones.

Personalized Support For First responders and Adults

We frequently use this approach with first responders dealing with cumulative stress, traumatic calls, or job-related burnout, as well as adults facing personal trauma, grief, or low self-esteem. Once you and your therapist determine that this method fits with your therapy goals, you’ll focus on a specific situation that still causes emotional discomfort. You’ll explore what stands out about that experience, what beliefs or body sensations come up, and what you’d like to believe about yourself when you think back on that moment.