EMDR Therapy

“The world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it.

— Helen Keller

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a type of therapy that can help you process traumatic memories and overcome their lingering effects. It was first developed in the 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro and has since become widely used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.

EMDR works by focusing on the memory of a traumatic event and using bilateral stimulation to help the brain process it in a more adaptive way. This stimulation can take the form of eye movements, hand taps, or sounds that alternate between the left and right sides of the body. The idea is that this bilateral stimulation helps to unlock the brain's natural ability to heal and resolve traumatic experiences.

What to expect during an EMDR session

Here's what you can expect during our EMDR sessions:

  1. Assessment: We'll start by discussing your experiences that are causing you to feel stuck and any related symptoms you're facing. This helps me understand your unique situation.

  2. Preparation: I'll assist you in developing coping skills and relaxation techniques that you can use during the therapy sessions. These tools will help you manage any distress that may arise.

  3. Targeting: Together, we'll identify specific memories or triggers that you want to focus on during our therapy. This ensures that we address the areas that are most important to you.

  4. Desensitization: I'll guide you through your preferred method of bilateral stimulation while you recall the traumatic memory. We'll repeat this process until the memory begins to feel less distressing and overwhelming.

  5. Installation: We'll work on replacing the negative beliefs and emotions associated with the traumatic memory with positive ones. This step helps to reframe your perspective and promote healing.

  6. Closure: Before ending each session, I'll assist you in returning to a state of calm and relaxation. It's important to conclude our time together on a positive note.

EMDR sessions typically last around 60-90 minutes, and the number of sessions needed depends on your individual needs and progress.

Determining if EMDR is the right approach for you requires a collaborative effort. Together, we'll explore your goals and evaluate whether EMDR aligns with your needs. Some indicators that EMDR might be suitable for you include:

  • If you have experienced a traumatic event that continues to impact you emotionally and mentally.

  • If you struggle with symptoms of anxiety, depression, or PTSD.

  • If you desire a structured and supportive environment to work through your trauma.

  • If you are committed to the therapy process and willing to follow my guidance.

If you're interested in learning more about EMDR and whether it could be an effective treatment for you, please don't hesitate to reach out. As a licensed therapist trained in EMDR, I'm here to answer any questions you may have and help you make informed decisions about your mental health journey.

 FAQs

  • I charge $170 per 50 minute session. Payment is accepted via Credit Card and will be charged following completion of each session.

  • The first session is an opportunity for you to share more about your story and what you’d like to gain from therapy. This is also the time to decide if we are a good fit to work together. Do you feel comfortable with me? Do you feel like you can trust me? A great therapeutic relationship leads to better outcomes in therapy. My goal is to create a welcoming space where you feel heard, supported, and challenged to meet your goals.

  • Each session is 50 minutes in length. I generally recommend meeting weekly or bi-weekly to start, decreasing in frequency as you progress through therapy.

  • While I don’t do direct billing, I will issue you an invoice and receipt after payment which you can submit to your insurance provider. Before commencing therapy, it is recommended that you check with your insurance provider to make sure they cover social work services (MSW, RSWs).

  • At this time, I only provide online therapeutic services.

  • I require 48-hours notice of cancellation or you will need to pay for the appointment. An occasional exception may be made in the case of an emergency. It’s important that we meet consistently in order to make progress in therapy.

  • Yes. I only work with individuals who are 18 years of age or older. I do not provide treatment for eating disorders, psychotic disorders (schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, etc), or obessive-compulsive disorder. I also do not provide couples therapy. Due to licensing laws, I am only able to provide therapy in the province of Ontario.