EMDR therapy in Toronto (in-person & virtual) & across Canada (virtual)
extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and PTSD symptoms - EMDRIA
What is EMDR
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based psychotherapy that supports healing without requiring detailed retelling of past events.
The basic process of EMDR involves the individual recalling distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This is thought to help the brain reprocess the traumatic memories, enabling the individual to process and integrate the emotions, thoughts, and sensations associated with the trauma in a more adaptive way. Over time and with repeated sessions, the goal is to desensitize the individual to the traumatic memories, reducing their emotional impact and decreasing symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety. EMDR therapy helps the brain process these memories, and allows normal healing to resume. The experience is still remembered, but the fight, flight, or freeze response from the original event is resolved.
EMDR therapy focuses on the following three objectives:
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Process past events and the groundwork of dysfunction
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Target the current circumstances that elicit distress
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Assist in the adaptive functioning of future events
According to Dr. Shapiro, successful EMDR therapy:
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Relieves affective distress
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Reformulates negative beliefs
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Reduces physiological arousal
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What to Expect in an EMDR Session
Sessions are collaborative, paced, and grounded in safety. We begin by building resources and stability before reprocessing memories. You remain present and in control throughout, and the work unfolds at a pace that respects your nervous system.