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Rated 5 out of 5 Stars

EMDR Therapy

Garden Refuge Nonprofit and Counseling Center, Springfield, Illinois

A structured therapy approach that helps people work through difficult memories and experiences in a safe, guided setting.

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Garden Refuge has wonderful counselors that are warm, compassionate, and caring. Would absolutely refer anyone seeking mental health services to GR!

Shanna Shrum

During my experience with Garden Refuge, I felt extremely welcomed and supported. counseling can feel intimidating, but they create a space where you feel comfortable opening up without any pressure or judgement. I always leave feeling a little more grounded and understood.

Emily Waldrop

Garden Refuge is a truly compassionate and thoughtfully run organization. The level of care they provide creates a safe, supportive space for clients and I would highly recommend them!

Annie Freeman

Garden Refuge Nonprofit has amazing workers. They have great sensitivity for cultural diversity and are accepting of learning from others, being challenged, and helping their clients to achieve their goals in life.

Trenise Scott

Garden Refuge Nonprofit and Counseling is great! With different workshops that help you better understand certain topics and provide resources, it is a great space to learn and grow!

Josie M

Top-Rated Therapy and Counseling in Springfield, Illinois

How We Work Together

Our Licensed Professional Counselors and Therapists are dedicated to providing trauma-informed, unmatched understanding, compassion, and the personalized care you need to navigate through life’s challenges.

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Book An Appointment

Schedule a free consultation to share your goals and ask any questions you have about therapy.

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Match With A Therapist

We'll thoughtfully connect you with a licensed therapist who best fits your needs.

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Begin Counseling

Start your sessions and take the next step in your therapy journey with guidance and support from your therapist.

Therapists in Springfield, IL

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Dr. Katherine Segal

Ph.D, LCSW (telehealth)

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Araxie Jensen

Master's intern 

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Josh Eaves

LCSW

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Proudly Serving Illinois via Telehealth
And Springfield, Illinois in Person

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EMDR Therapy in Springfield, IL

In a city like Springfield, Illinois, where daily life is shaped by work demands, family responsibilities, and ongoing stress, many individuals carry past experiences that continue to affect how they think and respond in the present. Across Sangamon County’s nearly 194,000 residents, it is common for people to experience lingering effects from trauma, anxiety, or distressing events that feel difficult to fully move past. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to help the brain reprocess those memories so they no longer trigger the same emotional intensity. Recognized by organizations like the American Psychological Association as an effective treatment for trauma, EMDR has been shown to help many individuals see meaningful progress in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapy. At Garden Refuge Nonprofit and Counseling Center in Springfield, Illinois, EMDR therapy provides a focused, practical approach to help individuals process difficult experiences, reduce emotional reactivity, and move forward with greater clarity and stability, whether in person or through telehealth.

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Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR Therapy in Springfield, IL

1. What is EMDR therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy that helps individuals process and reduce the impact of traumatic memories. At Garden Refuge Nonprofit and Counseling Center in Springfield, Illinois, EMDR is used to help people move forward from distressing experiences.


2. How does EMDR therapy work?

EMDR uses guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation while you recall specific memories. This process helps the brain reprocess those experiences so they feel less overwhelming over time.


3. What conditions can EMDR therapy help treat?

EMDR is commonly used for trauma and PTSD, but it can also help with anxiety, depression, panic attacks, phobias, and distress related to past experiences.


4. Is EMDR therapy effective?

Yes. EMDR is an evidence-based therapy recognized for its effectiveness in treating trauma and related conditions. Many people experience meaningful relief in fewer sessions compared to some traditional approaches.


5. Do I have to talk in detail about my trauma during EMDR?

Not necessarily. EMDR does not require you to describe every detail of your experience. The focus is on processing the memory internally while guided by your therapist.


6. How long does EMDR therapy take?

The timeline varies depending on the individual and the complexity of the experiences being addressed. Some people see results in a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer course of treatment.


7. What should I expect during an EMDR session?

Sessions typically include identifying target memories, using bilateral stimulation, and allowing your brain to process the experience. Your therapist will guide you through each step in a structured and supportive way.


8. Is EMDR therapy safe?

Yes. EMDR is considered a safe and well-researched therapy when conducted by a trained professional. Sessions are paced to ensure you feel supported and not overwhelmed.

Our Other Counseling Services and Specialties

Cognitive Behavior Therapy

Evidence-based CBT to change unhelpful thought patterns and build practical coping strategies.

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Family Therapy

Family therapy to improve communication, resolve conflict, and strengthen relationships at home.

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Forward Facing Trauma Therapy

Trauma therapy that helps you process the past while building stability and forward movement.

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Gottman Couples Counseling

Research-based couples counseling focused on communication, conflict, and rebuilding trust.

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Group Counseling

Therapist-led groups that offer support, skills, and connection with others facing similar challenges.

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Marriage Counseling

A skills-based treatment combining cognitive-behavioral strategies with mindfulness.

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Mindfulness Coaching

Mindfulness coaching to reduce stress, build awareness, and strengthen daily coping skills.

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Motivational Interviewing

A collaborative, goal-focused style that strengthens motivation for change and follow-through.

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Trauma Informed Therapy

A trauma-informed approach that prioritizes safety, regulation, and steady healing at your pace.

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Illinois Telehealth

Evidence-based therapy that prioritizes healing at your pace from the comfort of your home.

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EMDR Therapy

A structured therapy approach that helps people work through difficult memories and experiences in a safe, guided setting.

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Teen Therapy

Therapy for Teens and Adolescents to help them work through the difficulties of growing up.

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Connect With Us

Build stronger communities by increasing self-reliance, and strengthening individuals and families through family history work, counseling, psychoeducation, and community-based activities.

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