EMDR Therapy in Calgary
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapy that helps people heal from trauma, anxiety, PTSD, phobias, and negative self-beliefs. It works by using guided eye movements, tapping, or sound to help the brain reprocess painful memories, reducing their emotional impact. EMDR is relevant because it offers a quicker and effective alternative to traditional talk therapy, helping people feel calmer and more in control without erasing their memories. In practice, a therapist leads the patient through a series of eye movements while focusing on a troubling memory, helping to desensitize its emotional charge over time. For those struggling with past trauma, EMDR can be a powerful tool to regain emotional stability and move forward. If past experiences are still affecting your life, EMDR with a licensed therapist might be a good next step.
What Issues Can EMDR Help With?
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Anxiety and Panic Disorders
Depression
Phobias
Grief and Loss
Childhood Trauma
Sexual Assault or Abuse Survivors
Addiction and Substance Abuse
Chronic Pain and Illness
Low Self-Esteem and Negative Self-Beliefs
Relationship Issues (e.g. attachment issues)
Too Long, Didn’t Read:
EMDR helps reduce emotional pain from past traumas by using eye movements, tapping, or sound, allowing people to process memories, with the goal of feeling more emotionally regulated.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Yes! EMDR can be used in person, or virtually.
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The number of sessions needed can vary depending on the individual and the complexity of the issues being addressed.
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During the initial sessions, your therapist will work with you to build trust, understand your concerns, and establish a sense of safety. Only once this foundation is in place will the therapist begin the EMDR process, ensuring you're fully prepared and comfortable to start addressing the trauma effectively.
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While EMDR helps you process difficult memories, it does not force you to relive traumatic events in a way that feels unsafe. The goal is to reduce the emotional intensity of the memories, not to re-traumatize you. Our therapists ensures the process is manageable and safe.