EMDR Therapists in High River, AB

Photo of Gita Ward; Anxiety And Trauma Specialist, BA, MSW, RCSW, Registered Social Worker
Gita Ward; Anxiety And Trauma Specialist
Registered Social Worker, BA, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
High River, AB T1V
I have 15 years of experience and advanced specialized training for Anxiety and Trauma utilizing effective approaches such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR, DBT and CBT to help you live the life you want.
Now Offering Therapy Intensives! Accelerate your healing by feeling better faster with our 1, 2, 3 & 4 day intensives. Anxiety and trauma can make us feel stuck and overwhelmed, but there is hope. Let me pour you a cup of coffee or tea and let's talk. Anxiety and trauma no longer has to take over you and your world. You deserve to live a fulfilling life. I can help you find the answers you are looking for and start to live the life you want. I know how intimidating it can be to reach out to a therapist. Take a deep breath and connect with me.
I have 15 years of experience and advanced specialized training for Anxiety and Trauma utilizing effective approaches such as Accelerated Resolution Therapy, EMDR, DBT and CBT to help you live the life you want.
Now Offering Therapy Intensives! Accelerate your healing by feeling better faster with our 1, 2, 3 & 4 day intensives. Anxiety and trauma can make us feel stuck and overwhelmed, but there is hope. Let me pour you a cup of coffee or tea and let's talk. Anxiety and trauma no longer has to take over you and your world. You deserve to live a fulfilling life. I can help you find the answers you are looking for and start to live the life you want. I know how intimidating it can be to reach out to a therapist. Take a deep breath and connect with me.
(587) 209-8972 View (587) 209-8972
Photo of Dianna Campbell-Smith, PsyD, RPsych, Psychologist
Dianna Campbell-Smith
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High River, AB T1V
EMDR may be used to manage symptoms of PTSD or earlier life trauma.
Do you try to make changes, but they don't stick? Are you feeling depressed, anxious or just not happy for too long? Do you repeat unhealthy relationship patterns? Working with me may allow you to make changes that stick. I am a registered psychologist and a life, and business coach who works with adults, adolescents and couples. In our work you will get clear on changes you want and develop effective skills, identifying and using your own strengths to make those changes. A solution approach focuses on what is working and strengths you already have in your repertoire.
EMDR may be used to manage symptoms of PTSD or earlier life trauma.
Do you try to make changes, but they don't stick? Are you feeling depressed, anxious or just not happy for too long? Do you repeat unhealthy relationship patterns? Working with me may allow you to make changes that stick. I am a registered psychologist and a life, and business coach who works with adults, adolescents and couples. In our work you will get clear on changes you want and develop effective skills, identifying and using your own strengths to make those changes. A solution approach focuses on what is working and strengths you already have in your repertoire.
(866) 898-6156 View (866) 898-6156
Photo of Shelley D Hanna, MA, RPsych, Psychologist
Shelley D Hanna
Psychologist, MA, RPsych
Verified Verified
High River, AB T1V
With over 20 years experience and advanced training in EMDR and somatic therapies I assist in multiple areas - Supporting you with compassionate support.
I specialize in trauma related symptoms and concerns. As an EMDR certified therapist I can help with complex trauma, relational trauma, phobias, mood and relationship concerns. I offer treatment intensives and day retreats. Depression, anxiety relationship concerns are often symptoms of trauma and we can explore healing further with EMDR and somatic therapies. I also support individuals and their family members struggling with stress, behaviour problems, communication difficulties, marital concerns, and co-parenting issues after separation and divorce. often a little help can change the direction to a more positive one.
With over 20 years experience and advanced training in EMDR and somatic therapies I assist in multiple areas - Supporting you with compassionate support.
I specialize in trauma related symptoms and concerns. As an EMDR certified therapist I can help with complex trauma, relational trauma, phobias, mood and relationship concerns. I offer treatment intensives and day retreats. Depression, anxiety relationship concerns are often symptoms of trauma and we can explore healing further with EMDR and somatic therapies. I also support individuals and their family members struggling with stress, behaviour problems, communication difficulties, marital concerns, and co-parenting issues after separation and divorce. often a little help can change the direction to a more positive one.
(587) 333-0283 View (587) 333-0283
Photo of Jennifer Rioux, MC, RPsych, Psychologist
Jennifer Rioux
Psychologist, MC, RPsych
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High River, AB T1V
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, EMDR, Gottman Method for couples in therapy including specialized training for couples that have suffered an affair and/or trauma.
I work with individuals & couples with a variety of issues including addictions, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship wellness, anger management, life stress, self-harm, infertility, unresolved trauma, grief, and sexual identity. I value a collaborative approach whether offering support or working to look at the thoughts, feelings, and behaviour that are keeping you stuck in unhealthy or unsatisfying patterns. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths and potential, increase positive life experiences, and build capacity to cope with life's struggles. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
I am trained in a variety of therapeutic modalities including CBT, EMDR, Gottman Method for couples in therapy including specialized training for couples that have suffered an affair and/or trauma.
I work with individuals & couples with a variety of issues including addictions, trauma, PTSD, depression, anxiety, relationship wellness, anger management, life stress, self-harm, infertility, unresolved trauma, grief, and sexual identity. I value a collaborative approach whether offering support or working to look at the thoughts, feelings, and behaviour that are keeping you stuck in unhealthy or unsatisfying patterns. My goal is to help you recognize your strengths and potential, increase positive life experiences, and build capacity to cope with life's struggles. LGBTQIA+ affirming.
(587) 850-2937 View (587) 850-2937
Photo of Myka Piekenbrock - Piekenbrock Psychology Services , MSc, BEd, BSc, Psychologist
Piekenbrock Psychology Services
Psychologist, MSc, BEd, BSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High River, AB T1V
Piekenbrock Psychological Service is where you can begin your journey towards mental wellness. As a clinical psychologist, Myka provides EMDR, trauma informed somatic therapy, bibliotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy to adults, teens and children. As an educational psychologist, Myka offers her expertise in educational assessments. With the dual accreditation, Myka is a wealth of experience waiting for you to access to your advantage. This life is yours to seize! If you email me please check your spam mail if you don't get a quick reply! Alternatively, call me!
Piekenbrock Psychological Service is where you can begin your journey towards mental wellness. As a clinical psychologist, Myka provides EMDR, trauma informed somatic therapy, bibliotherapy and cognitive behavioural therapy to adults, teens and children. As an educational psychologist, Myka offers her expertise in educational assessments. With the dual accreditation, Myka is a wealth of experience waiting for you to access to your advantage. This life is yours to seize! If you email me please check your spam mail if you don't get a quick reply! Alternatively, call me!
(587) 402-4286 View (587) 402-4286
Photo of Treena Peters - Treena Peters-Sunburst Counselling & Consulting, BSW, MSW, RCSW, Registered Social Worker
Treena Peters-Sunburst Counselling & Consulting
Registered Social Worker, BSW, MSW, RCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High River, AB T1V  (Online Only)
As a Certified EMDR Therapist, my preferred modality of treatment is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), however I can support you through the use of other modalities as well.
Welcome to Sunburst Counselling! Trauma is my specialty and it would be a privilege to support you with resolving yours. You may be asking what trauma is? Trauma can result from anything that causes the mind and body distress. After the traumatic event is over, you may be "triggered" when experiencing certain smells, sounds, tastes, sights or touch and unexpectedly be taken back to the memory and distressing emotions. When this happens, you may feel like you are reliving the traumatic event over and over again. If this sounds familiar to you, I can help!
As a Certified EMDR Therapist, my preferred modality of treatment is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), however I can support you through the use of other modalities as well.
Welcome to Sunburst Counselling! Trauma is my specialty and it would be a privilege to support you with resolving yours. You may be asking what trauma is? Trauma can result from anything that causes the mind and body distress. After the traumatic event is over, you may be "triggered" when experiencing certain smells, sounds, tastes, sights or touch and unexpectedly be taken back to the memory and distressing emotions. When this happens, you may feel like you are reliving the traumatic event over and over again. If this sounds familiar to you, I can help!
(587) 355-1468 View (587) 355-1468
Photo of Carley Wells, MSW, RSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Carley Wells
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High River, AB T1V  (Online Only)
I also provide specific trauma techniques (CPT, EMDR or CBT) to help you get to your goals.
Trauma can take many forms and have profound impacts. Whether it shows up in physical (such as panic, or exhaustion), emotional (like feeling anxious, sad, angry, or out of control) or more outward manifestations (the relationships we find ourselves in, or the cycles we seem stuck in), the truth is that trauma, and the things that we have gone through, can continue to show up in our lives and our systems for a long time. You might be at a place where you are ready to identify, unpack, and untether your trauma from your current and future life so that you can begin to feel a greater sense of control, freedom, and peace.
I also provide specific trauma techniques (CPT, EMDR or CBT) to help you get to your goals.
Trauma can take many forms and have profound impacts. Whether it shows up in physical (such as panic, or exhaustion), emotional (like feeling anxious, sad, angry, or out of control) or more outward manifestations (the relationships we find ourselves in, or the cycles we seem stuck in), the truth is that trauma, and the things that we have gone through, can continue to show up in our lives and our systems for a long time. You might be at a place where you are ready to identify, unpack, and untether your trauma from your current and future life so that you can begin to feel a greater sense of control, freedom, and peace.
(587) 844-6303 View (587) 844-6303
Photo of Jake Sombrutzki, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Jake Sombrutzki
Counsellor, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
High River, AB T1V  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with daily life, goals, or your relationship with yourself or others? Do fear, anxiety, low self-worth, setting boundaries, or anger hold you back? I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental approach focused on helping you rediscover your self-worth and innate ability to navigate life's challenges. With a background in addiction treatment and a diverse upbringing, I integrate Eastern philosophy and spirituality into my practice. I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services.
Are you struggling with daily life, goals, or your relationship with yourself or others? Do fear, anxiety, low self-worth, setting boundaries, or anger hold you back? I offer a collaborative, non-judgmental approach focused on helping you rediscover your self-worth and innate ability to navigate life's challenges. With a background in addiction treatment and a diverse upbringing, I integrate Eastern philosophy and spirituality into my practice. I presently exclusively offer online sessions while working closely with a dedicated team at Strength Counselling Services.
(226) 400-3526 View (226) 400-3526
Photo of Katherine Rosenstein, MA, RPsyc, IAYT, Psychologist
Katherine Rosenstein
Psychologist, MA, RPsyc, IAYT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
High River, AB T1V
As a registered psychologist and certified yoga therapist with over 12 years of experience, complemented by 25 years in the helping profession, I am committed to continually evolving my approach to client care. I empower individuals to access their innate healing abilities and deepen their inner wisdom by enhancing somatic awareness. I deeply value somatic therapy and often integrate parts work to foster self-compassion. My role is to guide clients in cultivating discernment, enabling them to process their experiences and fully embrace the richness of the present moment. I am honored to accompany clients on their healing journeys.
As a registered psychologist and certified yoga therapist with over 12 years of experience, complemented by 25 years in the helping profession, I am committed to continually evolving my approach to client care. I empower individuals to access their innate healing abilities and deepen their inner wisdom by enhancing somatic awareness. I deeply value somatic therapy and often integrate parts work to foster self-compassion. My role is to guide clients in cultivating discernment, enabling them to process their experiences and fully embrace the richness of the present moment. I am honored to accompany clients on their healing journeys.
(587) 405-9983 View (587) 405-9983
Photo of Nedra Huffey, Registered Social Worker
Nedra Huffey
Registered Social Worker
Verified Verified
High River, AB T1V
I am a mental health therapist & Registered Social Worker with the Alberta College of Social Workers. I have a Master’s of Social Work degree from the University of Calgary. I work with adults and children with a therapy focus on attachment, trauma, parenting support, anxiety and depression.
I am a mental health therapist & Registered Social Worker with the Alberta College of Social Workers. I have a Master’s of Social Work degree from the University of Calgary. I work with adults and children with a therapy focus on attachment, trauma, parenting support, anxiety and depression.
(587) 507-3869 View (587) 507-3869
Photo of Megan Roberts, MC, CCC, Counsellor
Megan Roberts
Counsellor, MC, CCC
Verified Verified
High River, AB T1V
Accepting New Clients! In Person & Virtual: Welcome to the Hope and Healing Sanctuary. Counselling services in Okotoks, Alberta, and surrounding areas. Let me ask you. Have you been living on autopilot or often feeling overwhelmed by chronic stress, anxiety, grief, loss, or perhaps all of the above? Do you usually daydream and wonder what it would be like to break free from the cycle of busyness and reclaim control over your life? You’re not alone. As a trauma-informed counselling therapist with a deep understanding of life’s challenges, I am here to guide you on your journey toward healing and transformation.
Accepting New Clients! In Person & Virtual: Welcome to the Hope and Healing Sanctuary. Counselling services in Okotoks, Alberta, and surrounding areas. Let me ask you. Have you been living on autopilot or often feeling overwhelmed by chronic stress, anxiety, grief, loss, or perhaps all of the above? Do you usually daydream and wonder what it would be like to break free from the cycle of busyness and reclaim control over your life? You’re not alone. As a trauma-informed counselling therapist with a deep understanding of life’s challenges, I am here to guide you on your journey toward healing and transformation.
(587) 804-3391 View (587) 804-3391
Photo of Leah Carter, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Leah Carter
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
High River, AB T1V
Life can be challenging and messy. Taking care of yourself and your mental health does not have to be. I am passionate about working with first responders and those who love them, individuals and couples. I work with a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, PTSD, parenting, conflict, and life transitions.
Life can be challenging and messy. Taking care of yourself and your mental health does not have to be. I am passionate about working with first responders and those who love them, individuals and couples. I work with a wide variety of concerns, including anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, PTSD, parenting, conflict, and life transitions.
(825) 251-9581 View (825) 251-9581

More Therapists Nearby

Photo of Josée Kykkanen, BA, MC, Psychologist
Josée Kykkanen
Psychologist, BA, MC
Verified Verified
Okotoks, AB T1S
I am a registered psychologist specializing in child psychology. I provide parenting support to parents of children (ages 0-12) and work with children and their parents (ages 6 -12) in the therapeutic setting. I provide support with a variety of concerns, including parenting concerns, divorce/separation, anxiety, social problems, school-related concerns, grief and loss, ADHD, high-functioning autism, and emotional regulation. I also have completed training in EMDR and the ARC trauma framework to work with children who have experienced trauma.
I am a registered psychologist specializing in child psychology. I provide parenting support to parents of children (ages 0-12) and work with children and their parents (ages 6 -12) in the therapeutic setting. I provide support with a variety of concerns, including parenting concerns, divorce/separation, anxiety, social problems, school-related concerns, grief and loss, ADHD, high-functioning autism, and emotional regulation. I also have completed training in EMDR and the ARC trauma framework to work with children who have experienced trauma.
(587) 742-5965 View (587) 742-5965

Online Therapists

Photo of Haley Hykawy-The Calm Space Counselling And Therapy, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Haley Hykawy-The Calm Space Counselling And Therapy
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2T
My approach integrates highly effective therapeutic modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), alongside personalized talk-therapy.
Step into The Calm Space—a safe place for rediscovering your true self. In the hustle of life, it's easy to feel estranged from who we really are and the person we aspire to become. Juggling relationships, family, work, and the expectations we impose on ourselves can be overwhelming stressors. At The Calm Space, we empower you to navigate these challenges, fostering resilience and providing the insights and tools to gain a profound understanding of yourself, your family, and your relationships My practice is guided by compassion, gentle directness, and humor.
My approach integrates highly effective therapeutic modalities including Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing Therapy ( EMDR) and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART), alongside personalized talk-therapy.
Step into The Calm Space—a safe place for rediscovering your true self. In the hustle of life, it's easy to feel estranged from who we really are and the person we aspire to become. Juggling relationships, family, work, and the expectations we impose on ourselves can be overwhelming stressors. At The Calm Space, we empower you to navigate these challenges, fostering resilience and providing the insights and tools to gain a profound understanding of yourself, your family, and your relationships My practice is guided by compassion, gentle directness, and humor.
(587) 874-5666 View (587) 874-5666
Photo of Kate MacDonald - Kate MacDonald Psychology, RPsych, Psychologist
Kate MacDonald Psychology
Psychologist, RPsych
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2N  (Online Only)
I have experience in several therapeutic modalities, but primarily draw from acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, emotion focused therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and EMDR.
My goal is to help you make meaningful changes in your life, so that you feel your life is full of purpose and growth. My approach is to blend acceptance and validation of your emotions with action-oriented strategies to help you begin feeling and living your life differently. Therapy sessions include a combination of having space to share your feelings while also being invited to try new skills and strategies within and between sessions. Anxiety, depression, feeling stuck in old patterns, managing grief, and couples counselling are some of the primary concerns I support.
I have experience in several therapeutic modalities, but primarily draw from acceptance and commitment therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, emotion focused therapy, mindfulness-based approaches, and EMDR.
My goal is to help you make meaningful changes in your life, so that you feel your life is full of purpose and growth. My approach is to blend acceptance and validation of your emotions with action-oriented strategies to help you begin feeling and living your life differently. Therapy sessions include a combination of having space to share your feelings while also being invited to try new skills and strategies within and between sessions. Anxiety, depression, feeling stuck in old patterns, managing grief, and couples counselling are some of the primary concerns I support.
(587) 417-6495 View (587) 417-6495
Photo of Jane Allison Fix, MSc, Psychologist
Jane Allison Fix
Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Airdrie, AB T4B
As a Registered Psychologist, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma with advanced EMDR, PE, and body awareness techniques.
I am passionate about connecting and engaging with both individuals and couples. I have extensive experience working with first responders and their loved ones, drawing from my expertise in their unique work conditions, stresses, and trauma faced in public safety roles. I'm attuned to their reactions to such pressures and am skilled in interventions for managing distress, insomnia, complex relationships, and trauma symptoms.
As a Registered Psychologist, I specialize in treating depression, anxiety, and trauma with advanced EMDR, PE, and body awareness techniques.
I am passionate about connecting and engaging with both individuals and couples. I have extensive experience working with first responders and their loved ones, drawing from my expertise in their unique work conditions, stresses, and trauma faced in public safety roles. I'm attuned to their reactions to such pressures and am skilled in interventions for managing distress, insomnia, complex relationships, and trauma symptoms.
(587) 604-0450 View (587) 604-0450
Photo of Kate Nielsen, MSc, Psychologist
Kate Nielsen
Psychologist, MSc
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T3L
My primary approaches are: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (reframing negative/anxious thoughts and increasing adaptive coping skills); trauma focused counselling ( EMDR, Natural Processing, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Bodynamics); and play therapy for children.
Located in NW Calgary in Tuscany, I am a Registered Psychologist with 15+ years of experience. I see children, adolescents, and adults. My particular areas of specialty are: anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, stress, and relationship issues. I believe that the fit between therapist and client is key. I work collaboratively with clients to conceptualize and understand the presenting issue, to identify goals and ways to move forward, and to build on and increase coping tools.
My primary approaches are: Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (reframing negative/anxious thoughts and increasing adaptive coping skills); trauma focused counselling ( EMDR, Natural Processing, Accelerated Resolution Therapy, Somatic Experiencing, Bodynamics); and play therapy for children.
Located in NW Calgary in Tuscany, I am a Registered Psychologist with 15+ years of experience. I see children, adolescents, and adults. My particular areas of specialty are: anxiety, depression, trauma/PTSD, stress, and relationship issues. I believe that the fit between therapist and client is key. I work collaboratively with clients to conceptualize and understand the presenting issue, to identify goals and ways to move forward, and to build on and increase coping tools.
(587) 847-5471 View (587) 847-5471
Photo of Terra Wainwright - Couples Expert, MACP, Pre-Licensed Professional
Terra Wainwright - Couples Expert
Pre-Licensed Professional, MACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Calgary, AB T2P
She is certified in EMDR and the Gottman Method.
Through a trauma-informed lens and respect for the individual’s unique experience, Terra is passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families, as to find their individual voice and strengthen communication while deepening relationships. Through her work with adults and adolescents, she provides guidance on range of concerns, including identity, relationships, and life transitions. She is grounded in the belief that an individual’s truth lies within, and she creates a safe, inclusive space to explore this in order to facilitate healing and growth.
She is certified in EMDR and the Gottman Method.
Through a trauma-informed lens and respect for the individual’s unique experience, Terra is passionate about working with individuals, couples, and families, as to find their individual voice and strengthen communication while deepening relationships. Through her work with adults and adolescents, she provides guidance on range of concerns, including identity, relationships, and life transitions. She is grounded in the belief that an individual’s truth lies within, and she creates a safe, inclusive space to explore this in order to facilitate healing and growth.
(825) 602-5056 View (825) 602-5056
Photo of Katie Nicole Kinsella, BA, MACP, Registered Provisional Psychologist
Katie Nicole Kinsella
Registered Provisional Psychologist, BA, MACP
Verified Verified
Calgary, AB T2X
I work with adult individuals who have experienced trauma, attachment injury, chronic stress and anxiety. I aim to help my clients regulate their nervous systems and unconsciously process thoughts, emotions and sensations that are high jacking their lives. If you are trying to understand yourself more deeply and connect with a more authentic part of yourself I'd love to help you in your therapeutic journey. I use a variety of tools and interventions such as IFS, EMDR, vagus nerve and somatic practices. My aim in working together is to help you feel unstuck from whatever symptoms you may be experiencing.
I work with adult individuals who have experienced trauma, attachment injury, chronic stress and anxiety. I aim to help my clients regulate their nervous systems and unconsciously process thoughts, emotions and sensations that are high jacking their lives. If you are trying to understand yourself more deeply and connect with a more authentic part of yourself I'd love to help you in your therapeutic journey. I use a variety of tools and interventions such as IFS, EMDR, vagus nerve and somatic practices. My aim in working together is to help you feel unstuck from whatever symptoms you may be experiencing.
(825) 445-3939 View (825) 445-3939
Photo of Betty Stone, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Betty Stone
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Pincher Creek, AB T0K
Therapies offered are listed on this webpage including EMDR, Narrative, Solution-Focused, Strength-based, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking guidance in life's challenges? I am here to: listen, help build your coping skills, explore emotions, process tough experiences, and help you discover your strengths to heal from grief and trauma. I will provide support - for healing, growth, acceptance, and making changes. My private office on our acreage is only 10 minutes from Pincher Creek and 25 minutes from Crowsnest Pass.
Therapies offered are listed on this webpage including EMDR, Narrative, Solution-Focused, Strength-based, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
Seeking guidance in life's challenges? I am here to: listen, help build your coping skills, explore emotions, process tough experiences, and help you discover your strengths to heal from grief and trauma. I will provide support - for healing, growth, acceptance, and making changes. My private office on our acreage is only 10 minutes from Pincher Creek and 25 minutes from Crowsnest Pass.
(587) 875-5737 View (587) 875-5737

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EMDR Counsellors

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimising its ability to trigger anxiety.