Change how the past lives in you

Relief from the past, strength for what’s ahead—through EMDR and trauma-informed therapy

Diverse group of smiling adults — hero image symbolizing community and healing on Alex Howard, LSW’s site.

Is EMDR right for me?

Are you living with intrusive thoughts, heavy emotions, or memories that still feel too close? Maybe it shows up as anxiety, depression, nightmares, or low self-esteem. You don’t have to face it alone!

Has your trauma been resistant to traditional therapeutic techniques? 

EMDR is a proven, compassionate approach that can ease the weight of past experiences; often working more quickly than traditional talk therapy. If you’re hoping to feel calmer, stronger, and more at peace, EMDR may be right for you.

Additional Techniques

Drawing from a number of approaches to tailor therapy to your unique needs, I incorporate elements from CBT, ACT, IFS, mindfulness and more. My goal is to create a collaborative, safe environment where we can walk together through in any stage of life.

My Approach

Creative tools in a fabric case — imagery on Alex Howard LSW’s homepage symbolizing resourcefulness and trauma-informed therapy on Chicago’s North Shore.

What is EMDR?

EMDR is a proven therapy that helps your brain process difficult experiences so they lose their grip on your daily life. While it was first created for PTSD, it’s also highly effective for anxiety, depression, panic, phobias, grief, low self-esteem and much more. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR works directly with how memories are stored in the brain, so you don’t have to retell every detail for this profound therapy to be effective. Many people find it reduces emotional triggers, strengthens coping, and brings a greater sense of calm and control.

ABC News
What is EMDR?

EMDR is now a trusted, evidence-based therapy that helps people process painful memories, easing symptoms of trauma, anxiety, depression, and more.

View Article

Articles & Stories

New York Post
Miley Cyrus & EMDR

Miley Cyrus says EMDR helped her overcome fears, making it easier to move forward with clarity, confidence, and peace. 

View Article

EMDR International Association
Testimonials

A public awareness film shows how EMDR helps people of all ages relieve psychological stress and heal from trauma.

View Article

Get in Touch!

Schedule a one-on-one introductory session with me to see if we’re a good fit

Comfortable armchair beside houseplants used as calming imagery on Alex Howard, LSW’s trauma-informed therapy pages.
Alex Howard, LSW — professional headshot used on his home page for EMDR and trauma-informed care.

I’m a trauma-informed therapist specializing in EMDR, CBT, ACT, mindfulness, and parts work (IFS) to support teens and adults navigating trauma, anxiety, and depression. I blend evidence-based approaches with a compassionate, collaborative style to meet you where you are.

I’m deeply committed to helping clients process difficult experiences, build resilience, and create lasting change. I find this work most rewarding when people begin to feel more grounded, empowered, and in control of their lives.

I also partner with other North Shore providers seeking EMDR referrals for their clients and have locations in Glenview and Glencoe.

FAQ

  • No. One of the most humane aspects of EMDR is that you do NOT have to share every detail of your experiences for the therapy to be effective. Instead, we focus on the memories, feelings, or body sensations connected to the event while using bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements or tapping) to help your brain reprocess the memory. The best part? You remain in control of how much you share, and I will always work at a pace that feels safe for you.

  • After we’ve discussed your history and set clear goals, we begin with preparation by teaching you coping tools to feel grounded and safe. In an EMDR session, you’ll bring to mind a specific memory, image, or sensation while following bilateral stimulation, such as my hand movements, tapping, or sounds. We pause regularly to check in and notice any changes in thoughts, emotions, or body sensations. The goal is to reduce the distress connected to the memory and help you feel more at ease when thinking about it.

  • It’s completely normal to experience strong emotions during EMDR, especially when processing difficult memories. I will guide you through the process and we’ll use grounding techniques to help you feel safe and in control. As EMDR is collaborative, you can always pause, take a break, or slow down. Your well-being comes first, and you set the pace!

  • No. EMDR does not erase or delete memories. The goal is to change the way the memory is stored in the brain so it no longer feels as distressing or triggering. You’ll still remember what happened, but it will feel less emotionally charged, allowing you to think about it without becoming overwhelmed.

  • The number of sessions varies depending on your goals, history, and current symptoms. Some clients experience relief in as few as 6–8 sessions for a specific event, while others with more complex histories may benefit from a longer course of therapy. We’ll review progress regularly and adjust the treatment plan together so you know what to expect.

  • No. EMDR is not hypnosis. During EMDR, you remain fully awake, aware, and in control of the process. The therapy works by helping your brain reprocess distressing memories through structured sets of eye movements, sounds, or taps. Not by putting you into a trance or altering your consciousness. The goal is to reduce the emotional charge of the memory while you stay present and grounded throughout the session.

  • No. EMDR works beautifully in conjunction with your original therapist. Clients who see an individual therapist and EMDR practitioner may see expedited recovery.

Sunset over a calm lake reflecting mountains — visual metaphor for restoration on Alex Howard, LSW's trauma-informed therapy site.

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