EMDR Therapy in Vancouver

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based approach that helps people process distressing life events. It works by reducing the emotional impact of difficult memories.

EMDR Therapy may be helpful for individuals who feel stuck in patterns linked to past events. These patterns can continue to affect emotional well-being over time.

Head & Heart Counselling offers EMDR Therapy in a supportive, confidential environment. Our therapists provide EMDR with a focus on safety, collaboration, and individual readiness.

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR, which stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a therapeutic approach designed to help people process distressing memories and experiences. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements) to support the brain’s natural ability to process and integrate difficult experiences.

While traditional talk therapy is conversational and explores patterns over time, EMDR follows a structured eight-phase protocol. This process helps reprocess specific traumatic memories and reduce their emotional impact.

EMDR can be a more focused approach than traditional talk therapy, particularly when working with trauma and PTSD. Research indicates that EMDR can help individuals feel better by focusing on memory reprocessing instead of just talking.

Therapists widely use EMDR in trauma-informed care. Experts recognize it as an effective approach for individuals experiencing lingering emotional responses related to past events.

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR may be appropriate for individuals experiencing emotional distress connected to past events. People who feel overwhelmed, anxious, or emotionally upset often find EMDR helpful.

This method can help when feelings are hard to understand or control.

EMDR commonly supports individuals who are experiencing:

Trauma or post-traumatic stress
Anxiety linked to past experiences
Distressing or intrusive memories
Ongoing emotional responses connected to childhood experiences
Difficulty moving past specific events or experiences

At Head & Heart Counselling, we often work with individuals in Vancouver who feel anxious, emotionally overwhelmed, or stuck in patterns connected to past experiences.

Vancouver EMDR Therapy from Head and Heart Counselling

How EMDR Works

A therapist carefully paces and guides the structured process of EMDR. Our therapists adapt sessions to each individual and prioritize safety and emotional support throughout the process.

EMDR generally includes the following stages:

01. Preparation and Assessment

Building understanding, trust, and coping strategies before beginning memory processing.

02. processing traumatic memories

Using bilateral stimulation to help the brain reprocess experiences in a way that reduces emotional intensity.

03. integration and stablization

Supporting the integration of insights and ensuring clients feel grounded and supported throughout therapy.

The process unfolds gradually and collaboratively, with attention to each client’s comfort and readiness.

Vancouver EMDR Therapy at Head and Heart Counselling

Benefits of EMDR Therapy

EMDR eye movement desensitization may support individuals in processing difficult experiences and developing healthier emotional responses over time. While each person’s experience is unique, potential benefits may include:

Reduced emotional intensity related to distressing memories
Improved emotional regulation and coping skills
Greater sense of clarity and relief when reflecting on past experiences
Increased resilience and ability to move forward

Your therapist will work with you to explore how EMDR Therapy may support your specific goals.

EMDR Therapy at Head & Heart Counselling

In our Vancouver practice, we often work with clients who feel they’ve talked things through but still feel emotionally stuck. EMDR offers a structured, evidence-based approach that works beyond conversation by supporting how the brain and body process distressing experiences.

Our therapists work at a pace that respects each client’s readiness and lived experience. Sessions are collaborative and grounded in consent, with ongoing attention to emotional safety and regulation so clients feel supported throughout the process.

Our TRAINED EMDR Specialists:

Orsolya Kis, MA, CCC, PhD (accepting new clients)
Kathryn Young, M.Ed, RCC (practice currently full)

Our therapists at Head and Heart Counselling approach EMDR with care, collaboration, and respect for each client’s pace and readiness. Our work is grounded in creating a safe and supportive therapeutic environment.

Book a free 20 minute consultation

Why EMDR at Head & Heart Counselling

At Head & Heart Counselling, EMDR is offered as part of a thoughtful, paced process rather than a one-size-fits-all technique. Time is taken to ensure clients feel prepared and supported before beginning memory processing, with ongoing attention to safety, grounding, and emotional regulation throughout therapy.

What to Expect from EMDR Therapy Sessions

Beginning EMDR Therapy often starts with an initial conversation to understand your experiences, goals, and concerns. Sessions move at a speed that feels right for you. Your therapist will check in often to ensure you feel supported.

Clients can generally expect:

A collaborative and supportive therapeutic relationship
Sessions tailored to individual readiness and needs
Ongoing communication about pacing and comfort
A focus on safety, grounding, and emotional support

EMDR Therapy does not have a set timeline. Each client’s unique experience guides their progress.

EMDR Therapy FAQs

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing.
Therapists commonly use EMDR Therapy to support individuals in processing distressing or traumatic events. It may be helpful for concerns such as trauma, anxiety related to past events, and emotionally overwhelming memories.
The length of EMDR Therapy varies depending on individual goals, experiences, and readiness. It can take from 2 - 12+ sessions depending on the trauma complexity and number of memories. Many people see improvement within the first few months of weekly sessions.
EMDR Therapy is a well-established approach delivered by trained therapists. Our therapists pace sessions carefully, emphasizing safety, support, and client consent.
Readiness for EMDR Therapy is determined collaboratively with your therapist. Preparation and stabilization are important parts of the process, and therapy moves forward at a pace that feels appropriate for you.
EMDR does not require clients to share detailed descriptions of traumatic experiences. Your therapist will guide the process in a way that feels safe and respectful, and you remain in control of what you choose to share.
EMDR can bring up emotions, but sessions are carefully paced and guided by a trained therapist. The focus is on safety, grounding, and support throughout the process.
In some cases, therapists may offer EMDR Counselling virtually. Your therapist can discuss whether virtual sessions are appropriate for your situation.