EMDR Therapists in Burnaby, BC

Photo of Farahnaz Heidarpour - Harmonious Counselling, MA, MSW, Registered Social Worker
Harmonious Counselling
Registered Social Worker, MA, MSW
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V3N
Through targeted therapy techniques such as EMDR, IFS, CBT & mindfulness-based therapy, we can work together to process & heal from past experiences, helping you regain control over your life & create a harmonious brighter future.
Are you seeking a space where you can feel truly heard and supported? Whether you're navigating depression or anxiety, relationships /career challenges, or simply seeking personal growth, I understand how overwhelming life can be. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can explore your feelings, work through obstacles, and discover meaningful solutions. As a therapist, my role is to empower you on your journey of self-discovery and healing. Through thoughtful, compassionate guidance, we’ll work together to break down barriers and develop a roadmap that aligns with your goals. You don’t have to do it alone!
Through targeted therapy techniques such as EMDR, IFS, CBT & mindfulness-based therapy, we can work together to process & heal from past experiences, helping you regain control over your life & create a harmonious brighter future.
Are you seeking a space where you can feel truly heard and supported? Whether you're navigating depression or anxiety, relationships /career challenges, or simply seeking personal growth, I understand how overwhelming life can be. My goal is to create a safe, non-judgmental environment where you can explore your feelings, work through obstacles, and discover meaningful solutions. As a therapist, my role is to empower you on your journey of self-discovery and healing. Through thoughtful, compassionate guidance, we’ll work together to break down barriers and develop a roadmap that aligns with your goals. You don’t have to do it alone!
(506) 909-0391 View (506) 909-0391
Photo of Timothy Lim, MA, RCC, Counsellor
Timothy Lim
Counsellor, MA, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
I incorporate several therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, EMDR, etc.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or alone with your thoughts? I understand that reaching out for support can be a big step, and I want you to know that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. In my practice, I offer a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your feelings with someone who truly listens and cares. My approach is to provide you with understanding and guidance tailored to your unique experiences.
I incorporate several therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Solution Focused Therapy, Emotional Focused Therapy, EMDR, etc.
Are you feeling overwhelmed or alone with your thoughts? I understand that reaching out for support can be a big step, and I want you to know that you don’t have to navigate this journey alone. In my practice, I offer a safe, compassionate space where you can explore your feelings with someone who truly listens and cares. My approach is to provide you with understanding and guidance tailored to your unique experiences.
(249) 496-3391 View (249) 496-3391
Photo of Zoe Ho, RCC, CCC, MACP, Counsellor
Zoe Ho
Counsellor, RCC, CCC, MACP
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H  (Online Only)
Welcome! I am Zoe Ho, registered clinical counsellor and founder of Avalo Therapy + Wellness. I have over ten year’s experience in yoga and somatic therapy. My approach is to create a safe, collaborative, and inclusive space for your authentic self-expression. Whether you are seeking personal growth, trauma healing or relationship improvement, I provide a range of integrative therapies that are trauma-informed, including Mindful Self-compassion, Somatic therapy, and EMDR.
Welcome! I am Zoe Ho, registered clinical counsellor and founder of Avalo Therapy + Wellness. I have over ten year’s experience in yoga and somatic therapy. My approach is to create a safe, collaborative, and inclusive space for your authentic self-expression. Whether you are seeking personal growth, trauma healing or relationship improvement, I provide a range of integrative therapies that are trauma-informed, including Mindful Self-compassion, Somatic therapy, and EMDR.
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Photo of Claudia Hui, MSW, MA, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Claudia Hui
Registered Social Worker, MSW, MA, RSW
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
I have training in EMDR, DBT, Emotion-Focused therapy and Synergetic play therapy.
I'm Claudia, a Registered Masters level Social worker who has been supporting families, individuals and children to overcoming everything from daily stressors, complex family dynamics to traumatic life experiences since 2011. I believe in a client-centered and collaborative approach, and aim to work with clients and families to rediscover their inner strengths, resilience and healing. I also have working knowledge of Cantonese and Mandarin and have additional interest in providing service and increasing awareness of mental health issues and promoting wellness to the Chinese community.
I have training in EMDR, DBT, Emotion-Focused therapy and Synergetic play therapy.
I'm Claudia, a Registered Masters level Social worker who has been supporting families, individuals and children to overcoming everything from daily stressors, complex family dynamics to traumatic life experiences since 2011. I believe in a client-centered and collaborative approach, and aim to work with clients and families to rediscover their inner strengths, resilience and healing. I also have working knowledge of Cantonese and Mandarin and have additional interest in providing service and increasing awareness of mental health issues and promoting wellness to the Chinese community.
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Photo of Tiffany Brown - Tiffany Brown, LIA (Love In Action) Counselling, CCC, MA, Counsellor
Tiffany Brown, LIA (Love In Action) Counselling
Counsellor, CCC, MA
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
We offer a range of safe and nurturing treatments, including EMDR, yoga-integrated practices, the WLH model, and feminist response-based practices.
Are you struggling with a challenging relationship or painful experience? Perhaps you’re struggling with the aftermath of one or more experiences and it’s affecting how you see yourself, making everyday life feel overwhelming. If you’re exhausted, unsure of your next steps, or questioning whether you’ll ever find your way forward, know that you’re not alone. We believe hope and healing are possible. At LIA, supporting women and folks who have faced abuse and violence is at the heart of what we do. We support you with gaining clarity, restoring self-trust and reclaiming your power, and finding a path forward that feels right for you.
We offer a range of safe and nurturing treatments, including EMDR, yoga-integrated practices, the WLH model, and feminist response-based practices.
Are you struggling with a challenging relationship or painful experience? Perhaps you’re struggling with the aftermath of one or more experiences and it’s affecting how you see yourself, making everyday life feel overwhelming. If you’re exhausted, unsure of your next steps, or questioning whether you’ll ever find your way forward, know that you’re not alone. We believe hope and healing are possible. At LIA, supporting women and folks who have faced abuse and violence is at the heart of what we do. We support you with gaining clarity, restoring self-trust and reclaiming your power, and finding a path forward that feels right for you.
(506) 806-0928 View (506) 806-0928
Photo of Tara Leana Marshall - Kindred Counselling, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Kindred Counselling
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
Adult EMDR clients will enjoy a modern private counselling office in the same building upstairs.
We exclusively use EMDR with all of our clients at every age. We are now offering EMDR Intensives which is an accelerated way to do multiple hours of EMDR in a short period of time. We are client-centred, trauma-informed practitioners and our goal in every session is to create a safe, supportive, accepting environment which allows our clients to be themselves. In this authentic and safe space real change can occur. We believe in the life-changing benefits of EMDR for all ages. We respect our client's unique backgrounds and stories and foster a collaborative relationship to better create meaningful therapeutic goals.
Adult EMDR clients will enjoy a modern private counselling office in the same building upstairs.
We exclusively use EMDR with all of our clients at every age. We are now offering EMDR Intensives which is an accelerated way to do multiple hours of EMDR in a short period of time. We are client-centred, trauma-informed practitioners and our goal in every session is to create a safe, supportive, accepting environment which allows our clients to be themselves. In this authentic and safe space real change can occur. We believe in the life-changing benefits of EMDR for all ages. We respect our client's unique backgrounds and stories and foster a collaborative relationship to better create meaningful therapeutic goals.
(548) 800-4390 View (548) 800-4390
Photo of Sarah DiFederico, MSW, RSW
Sarah DiFederico
MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
Waitlist for new clients
I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) as a stand-alone approach to psychotherapy.
Do you want to put your past in the past? I can help you. I’m Sarah, EMDR therapist and registered social worker with the BCCSW (13850). I specialise in the following issues that may bring you to find a therapist: traumatic experiences, stress, anxiety, phobias, abuse, violence, and burnout.
I use Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR) as a stand-alone approach to psychotherapy.
Do you want to put your past in the past? I can help you. I’m Sarah, EMDR therapist and registered social worker with the BCCSW (13850). I specialise in the following issues that may bring you to find a therapist: traumatic experiences, stress, anxiety, phobias, abuse, violence, and burnout.
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Photo of Melanie Johannson, MSW, RSW, RCC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melanie Johannson
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, RSW, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
I utilize a variety of techniques with EMDR, EFT, mindfulness, and CBT as my most effective techniques.
Life is often filled with struggles and crisis that can be overwhelming. Counselling with me is a careful and respectful exploration of your challenges and an opportunity to develop your own personal resources.I am a Registered Social Worker and a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I have worked as a therapist and group facilitator since 1988 dealing with issues such as trauma, relationship distress/violence, depression and anxiety, family/parenting challenges, work place issues, and grief/transitions.
I utilize a variety of techniques with EMDR, EFT, mindfulness, and CBT as my most effective techniques.
Life is often filled with struggles and crisis that can be overwhelming. Counselling with me is a careful and respectful exploration of your challenges and an opportunity to develop your own personal resources.I am a Registered Social Worker and a Registered Clinical Counsellor. I have worked as a therapist and group facilitator since 1988 dealing with issues such as trauma, relationship distress/violence, depression and anxiety, family/parenting challenges, work place issues, and grief/transitions.
(604) 359-1086 View (604) 359-1086
Photo of Amber Lum, MEd, RCC, Counsellor
Amber Lum
Counsellor, MEd, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5C
I am passionate about EMDR, art therapy, play therapy, and other trauma-informed practices because of their potential to support the transformation and healing of both ourselves and our communities.
I welcome diverse clients of all cultures, genders, and sexual orientations. I appreciate that we all come with unique stories and histories, and I think it is important to recognize and celebrate how these shape the way that we experience the world. I feel honoured and privileged to walk alongside my resilient clients in their personal healing journeys. I work with many clients who feel like they are not themselves. My clients often describe "knowing" one thing to be reality but "feeling" like something else is true. Through EMDR, I can help support this integration between mind and body so you can meet your goals.
I am passionate about EMDR, art therapy, play therapy, and other trauma-informed practices because of their potential to support the transformation and healing of both ourselves and our communities.
I welcome diverse clients of all cultures, genders, and sexual orientations. I appreciate that we all come with unique stories and histories, and I think it is important to recognize and celebrate how these shape the way that we experience the world. I feel honoured and privileged to walk alongside my resilient clients in their personal healing journeys. I work with many clients who feel like they are not themselves. My clients often describe "knowing" one thing to be reality but "feeling" like something else is true. Through EMDR, I can help support this integration between mind and body so you can meet your goals.
(249) 492-9850 View (249) 492-9850
Photo of Jasmine Garfield, MC, RCC, Counsellor
Jasmine Garfield
Counsellor, MC, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5H  (Online Only)
I have experience using various therapeutic techniques, including, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), compassion-focused therapy (CFT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), dreamwork therapy and EMDR.
Welcome. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters in Counselling Psychology. I whole-heartedly believe in the importance of having places and relationships where a person can feel heard, cared for and respected. My approach is eclectic, in that, I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches and collaborate with each person to learn about their unique hopes and needs. I am dedicated to holding a friendly and inclusive space where individuals feel safe to be themselves. I provide client-centered counselling to adults (19 and older) from a neurodiversity affirming and anti-oppressive perspective.
I have experience using various therapeutic techniques, including, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), compassion-focused therapy (CFT), dialectical behavioural therapy (DBT), dreamwork therapy and EMDR.
Welcome. I am a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a Masters in Counselling Psychology. I whole-heartedly believe in the importance of having places and relationships where a person can feel heard, cared for and respected. My approach is eclectic, in that, I draw from a range of therapeutic approaches and collaborate with each person to learn about their unique hopes and needs. I am dedicated to holding a friendly and inclusive space where individuals feel safe to be themselves. I provide client-centered counselling to adults (19 and older) from a neurodiversity affirming and anti-oppressive perspective.
(604) 256-7962 View (604) 256-7962
Photo of Alia Chan, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Alia Chan
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
Alia is also an EMDR therapist.
Alia received her degree in counselling psychology from Adler University and is registered with BCACC. Alia works with individuals who are looking for a new way to take hold of their lives. She acknowledges that counselling can be difficult to start, and she is here to go through those challenges with you. It is her priority to create a space where you feel validated and heard, and her hope for you is that you empower your inner strength so you can live a meaningful life. As a Filipino-Canadian, Alia is also passionate in working and supporting those of the BIPOC community.
Alia is also an EMDR therapist.
Alia received her degree in counselling psychology from Adler University and is registered with BCACC. Alia works with individuals who are looking for a new way to take hold of their lives. She acknowledges that counselling can be difficult to start, and she is here to go through those challenges with you. It is her priority to create a space where you feel validated and heard, and her hope for you is that you empower your inner strength so you can live a meaningful life. As a Filipino-Canadian, Alia is also passionate in working and supporting those of the BIPOC community.
(604) 330-7568 View (604) 330-7568
Photo of Amrita Dhoot, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Amrita Dhoot
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5A
Welcome! Do you come from a family with complex dynamics and feel like people don’t quite understand you? Have these experiences led to you being anxious, struggling to trust yourself or others? My unique understanding of these experiences allows me to hold space for those who feel unseen or unheard by people in their past or present life. I use EMDR, internal family systems, and somatic work that specialize in deepening people's understanding of themselves, leading them to rediscover or redefine their authentic selves. I am passionate about doing this work with older youth and adults who are new or have past therapy experience.
Welcome! Do you come from a family with complex dynamics and feel like people don’t quite understand you? Have these experiences led to you being anxious, struggling to trust yourself or others? My unique understanding of these experiences allows me to hold space for those who feel unseen or unheard by people in their past or present life. I use EMDR, internal family systems, and somatic work that specialize in deepening people's understanding of themselves, leading them to rediscover or redefine their authentic selves. I am passionate about doing this work with older youth and adults who are new or have past therapy experience.
(579) 679-1009 View (579) 679-1009
Photo of Gurpreet Khabra, BA, MACP, RCC, Counsellor
Gurpreet Khabra
Counsellor, BA, MACP, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5G
Drawing from my personal experiences within the South Asian community and specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions, I offer holistic care that considers the complexities of trauma and its intersections with cultural identity and personal experiences.
If you are someone who just wants to be seen, heard, and validated, I am here to help you through this journey. Whether you're navigating trauma, cultural challenges, or other life stressors, I am here to provide compassionate support and evidence-based interventions tailored to your unique journey towards healing, resilience, and empowerment.
Drawing from my personal experiences within the South Asian community and specialized training in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing ( EMDR), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness-based interventions, I offer holistic care that considers the complexities of trauma and its intersections with cultural identity and personal experiences.
If you are someone who just wants to be seen, heard, and validated, I am here to help you through this journey. Whether you're navigating trauma, cultural challenges, or other life stressors, I am here to provide compassionate support and evidence-based interventions tailored to your unique journey towards healing, resilience, and empowerment.
(506) 516-1283 View (506) 516-1283
Photo of Nicole Lam, Counsellor
Nicole Lam
Counsellor
Verified Verified
4 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V3N
Hi there! I'm Nicole and my counselling approach is centred around attachment theory, family of origin, EMDR, LENS Neurofeedback, emotion regulation, solution-focused strategies, somatic and internal family systems (IFS) interventions to support self discovery. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them uncover opportunities for inner growth & healing. I specialize in relationship anxiety, family issues, advocacy, grief & loss, conflict resolution, break ups, communication, life transitions, setting boundaries, self esteem/confidence/identity. I believe in empathy matched with concrete strategies to move forward.
Hi there! I'm Nicole and my counselling approach is centred around attachment theory, family of origin, EMDR, LENS Neurofeedback, emotion regulation, solution-focused strategies, somatic and internal family systems (IFS) interventions to support self discovery. I work collaboratively with my clients to help them uncover opportunities for inner growth & healing. I specialize in relationship anxiety, family issues, advocacy, grief & loss, conflict resolution, break ups, communication, life transitions, setting boundaries, self esteem/confidence/identity. I believe in empathy matched with concrete strategies to move forward.
(365) 601-6782 View (365) 601-6782
Photo of Patsy Wong, MSSc, RCC, Counsellor
Patsy Wong
Counsellor, MSSc, RCC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5H
I am trained in Mindfulness, EMDR and Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
With more than 10 years of experience in psychotherapy and counselling, I have been working with adults and young adults who are struggling with their feelings, relationships or even life. At times, we may get stuck, feel overwhelmed or even lost. In face of these challenges, it is not uncommon to run away from them, or fight so hard trying to get rid of them. More often than not, neither way leads to a peaceful mind. I am here to walk with you in these struggles, work with you to navigate in a direction which aligns more with your values and leads to a more peaceful, meaningful and satisfying life.
I am trained in Mindfulness, EMDR and Cognitive Behavior Therapy.
With more than 10 years of experience in psychotherapy and counselling, I have been working with adults and young adults who are struggling with their feelings, relationships or even life. At times, we may get stuck, feel overwhelmed or even lost. In face of these challenges, it is not uncommon to run away from them, or fight so hard trying to get rid of them. More often than not, neither way leads to a peaceful mind. I am here to walk with you in these struggles, work with you to navigate in a direction which aligns more with your values and leads to a more peaceful, meaningful and satisfying life.
(902) 600-9032 View (902) 600-9032
Photo of Ashley Greensmyth, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Ashley Greensmyth
Counsellor, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
10 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5E  (Online Only)
Therapy styles I use include: Adlerian therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, Lifespan Integration and Gottman Method for couples.
Hello, I'm your online therapist! I largely work with millennials— go-getters, people pleasers, and anxious types. You might have noticed that the "roadmap of life" doesn't really apply these days, so you're out there navigating uncharted territory with your own compass and notebook. I can help. My ideal clients are people who want to overcome anxiety, manage stress, learn to set strong boundaries, improve their relationships, and reclaim their self-worth to build confidence. If any of this resonates with you (regardless of generation), you might want to work with me.
Therapy styles I use include: Adlerian therapy, mindfulness, EMDR, Lifespan Integration and Gottman Method for couples.
Hello, I'm your online therapist! I largely work with millennials— go-getters, people pleasers, and anxious types. You might have noticed that the "roadmap of life" doesn't really apply these days, so you're out there navigating uncharted territory with your own compass and notebook. I can help. My ideal clients are people who want to overcome anxiety, manage stress, learn to set strong boundaries, improve their relationships, and reclaim their self-worth to build confidence. If any of this resonates with you (regardless of generation), you might want to work with me.
(604) 305-3147 View (604) 305-3147
Photo of Michael Mandrusiak, PsyD, RPsych, Psychologist
Michael Mandrusiak
Psychologist, PsyD, RPsych
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5C
I use a range of evidence-based and effective modalities, including cognitive behavioural therapy, distress tolerance skills training, mindfulness, EMDR, clinical hypnosis, emotion-focused therapy and organizational development and leadership support.
Thanks for visiting my profile. Finding the right therapist and reaching out for help can be a challenging but important step in healing and reaching your life goals. I work with many people who are feeling stuck and struggling with the stress of life or career concerns or who may be dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, obsessions and compulsions, depression, loss or trauma. My primary aim is to help people to feel safe and welcome so that I can support them in working toward their goals.
I use a range of evidence-based and effective modalities, including cognitive behavioural therapy, distress tolerance skills training, mindfulness, EMDR, clinical hypnosis, emotion-focused therapy and organizational development and leadership support.
Thanks for visiting my profile. Finding the right therapist and reaching out for help can be a challenging but important step in healing and reaching your life goals. I work with many people who are feeling stuck and struggling with the stress of life or career concerns or who may be dealing with relationship issues, anxiety, obsessions and compulsions, depression, loss or trauma. My primary aim is to help people to feel safe and welcome so that I can support them in working toward their goals.
(450) 700-7972 View (450) 700-7972
Photo of Suvi Teigen, MSW, RSW, Registered Social Worker
Suvi Teigen
Registered Social Worker, MSW, RSW
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5C
I also offer EMDR both virtually and in person.
As humans, we have all needed other people to share life’s journey with me in all its hope and hurt, awe and agony, wonder and wisdom. If you are in a space of curiosity, feeling like you would benefit from support to explore and deepen your personal and/or professional challenges, change deeply held patterns that aren't working for you, or work through frustrations, anxieties, fears, or grief, I am here to walk alongside you in that journey. I value a practical approach to addressing concerns, and will co-create strategies with you, drawing from your personal wisdom and experience combined with researched best practices.
I also offer EMDR both virtually and in person.
As humans, we have all needed other people to share life’s journey with me in all its hope and hurt, awe and agony, wonder and wisdom. If you are in a space of curiosity, feeling like you would benefit from support to explore and deepen your personal and/or professional challenges, change deeply held patterns that aren't working for you, or work through frustrations, anxieties, fears, or grief, I am here to walk alongside you in that journey. I value a practical approach to addressing concerns, and will co-create strategies with you, drawing from your personal wisdom and experience combined with researched best practices.
(825) 606-0841 View (825) 606-0841
Photo of Kali Polychronakos, BSW, MCP, RCC, Counsellor
Kali Polychronakos
Counsellor, BSW, MCP, RCC
Verified Verified
Burnaby, BC V5A
In addition to EMDR, I also use CBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Hello, my name is Kali. I support people in making meaningful changes in their lives, and in increasing their sense of purpose, belonging, and connectedness. I support people struggling with issues such as substance use, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, boundary setting, and relationship challenges. I also support people who just feel stuck and want help figuring out what the next step is, and how to get moving forward.
In addition to EMDR, I also use CBT, ACT, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and mindfulness-based interventions.
Hello, my name is Kali. I support people in making meaningful changes in their lives, and in increasing their sense of purpose, belonging, and connectedness. I support people struggling with issues such as substance use, anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, boundary setting, and relationship challenges. I also support people who just feel stuck and want help figuring out what the next step is, and how to get moving forward.
(249) 702-4715 View (249) 702-4715
Photo of Wylie Abramyk - Wylie Abramyk: MindFluent Counselling & EMDR, MA, RCC, CCC, Counsellor
Wylie Abramyk: MindFluent Counselling & EMDR
Counsellor, MA, RCC, CCC
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Burnaby, BC V5A
My compassion, experience, and expertise ensure that your EMDR therapy journey is not only effective but profoundly transformative.
Are you tired of the repetitive cycle of talk therapy which may bring short term relief but fails to provide lasting change? Are you exhausted from the overwhelming grip of anxiety or haunted by the ghosts of past traumas? Do low self-esteem and depression relentlessly hold you back, making life feel unmanageable? Unquestionably, these issues present immense challenges, but there is hope.
My compassion, experience, and expertise ensure that your EMDR therapy journey is not only effective but profoundly transformative.
Are you tired of the repetitive cycle of talk therapy which may bring short term relief but fails to provide lasting change? Are you exhausted from the overwhelming grip of anxiety or haunted by the ghosts of past traumas? Do low self-esteem and depression relentlessly hold you back, making life feel unmanageable? Unquestionably, these issues present immense challenges, but there is hope.
(604) 210-5642 View (604) 210-5642

See more therapy options for Burnaby

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.