EMDR Therapy Edmonton: Comprehensive Trauma & PTSD Treatment
EMDR therapy for the treatment of trauma and PTSD
How is eye movement desensitization reprocessing therapy different
At Mendable Psychology, we are proud to offer EMDR therapy in Edmonton. EMDR is effective approach developed over 20 years ago by Francine Shapiro to helping individuals process and recover from traumatic events and stressful experiences. EMDR can help decrease distress around specific thoughts and feelings related to a traumatic experience. It can also work to change limiting beliefs that have developed as a result of an experience.
Currently, EMDR is considered a first-line approach for the treatment of PTSD and trauma symptoms. EMDR is recognized by the US Department of Veteran Affairs, the American Psychological Association, the World Health Organization and others. The US Department of Veteran Affairs endorsed EMDR as one of the three psychotherapy approaches with the strongest evidence for the treatment of PTSD, alongside Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure.
Benefits of choosing EMDR therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based approach for the treatment of trauma. EMDR is unique in that it typically involves less talking than other therapy approaches and it uses bilateral stimulation which includes side to side movements (eye movements, tapping, or vibrations) during the session. The use of bilateral movements in EMDR is different from other evidence-based PTSD treatment approaches in that it incorporates one’ body into the therapy. For clients who have tried Cognitive Processing Therapy and Prolonged Exposure Therapy without success, EMDR may be useful as it takes a somewhat different avenue to access the same symptoms.
Conditions treated by EMDR
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy was originally designed to address Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but its applications have since expanded to include a wide range of mental health concerns. EMDR is beneficial for addressing trauma-related issues such as violence, abuse, sexual assault, accidents, natural disasters, health issues, and medical trauma. EMDR is also effective in treating anxiety disorders, including panic attacks and phobias, as well as depression, and dissociative disorders. Furthermore, it can also assist individuals coping with eating disorders, grief and loss, and chronic pain, chronic illness, and medical concerns. This versatile therapeutic approach provides a path to healing and resilience for many who face complex and deeply rooted challenges.
Overview of stages and phases of EMDR therapy
Learning about the process and determining if the approach is a good fit for your specific situation
Developing specific coping skills that you can use both in and outside of the therapy office to help regulate emotions. This ability is generally a required prior to processing trauma in any approach.
Mapping out the aspects of the trauma that you are targeting, identifying what beliefs you would like to change, and all other details that you and your therapist decide would be most appropriate and relevant. EMDR can look quite different between therapists and desired outcomes.
Using eye movements (or other side to side movements) while accessing the trauma memory. EMDR reprocessing may occur over several sessions and sometimes increasing the session length to 90 minutes can be most beneficial.
Mechanisms of how EMDR therapy works
While the exact mechanisms of action in EMDR therapy are not yet fully understood (like many other treatment options) several theories have been proposed to explain its effectiveness. A key hypothesis is that EMDR impacts how traumatic memories are stored in the brain, helping to reprocess and integrate these memories into a less distressing narrative. This may involve shifting the way the brain encodes emotional responses to past events. Another theory suggests that EMDR mimics processes occurring during the rapid eye movement (REM) phase of sleep, a time when the brain naturally consolidates and processes memories. The bilateral stimulation used in EMDR—such as guided eye movements—may activate similar pathways, facilitating memory reprocessing and emotional regulation. These mechanisms combine to help clients move toward resolution and relief from the lingering effects of trauma.
EMDR treatment length and duration
The length of EMDR treatment varies depending on factors such as the nature and severity of the concern being treated, the client’s coping and emotional stability, and the therapist’s expertise. For some clients, particularly those processing isolated traumatic incidents or recent exposure to trauma events, EMDR therapy may take 5-10 sessions. In some circumstances, single session EMDR can be enough to help reduce distress of a recent event significantly. In situations involving childhood abuse, complex trauma, or domestic violence a longer duration is often required to address deeply entrenched emotional distress and multiple target memories. During therapy, individuals work on developing internal resources to handle emotional distress effectively. Severe anxiety and other symptoms stemming from traumatic experiences are gradually reduced as the therapy progresses, providing clients with relief and enhanced emotional regulation. The therapist’s skill in guiding the pacing of therapy and level of distress is crucial for ensuring a safe and successful therapeutic outcome.
Considerations with EMDR therapy
EMDR is not the preferred treatment approach for everyone who has trauma related symptoms. Deciding if you are a good candidate for EMDR is a conversation and clinical decision between you and your psychologist. Likewise, other treatment approaches are also effective for PTSD, specifically Cognitive Processing Therapy, Prolonged Exposure Therapy, Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and Cognitive Therapy. It is just a matter of finding the right approach for you.
Hypnosis and hypnotic states are not a part of EMDR therapy. During all aspects of the processing you are fully conscious and in control. EMDR also does not typically include a high degree of therapist guidance unlike you might experience with hypnosis.
EMDR is not for recovering or remembering forgotten or vague memories. If your reason for seeking EMDR therapy is in court system, it may be the best to postpone this type of therapy. Review these considerations with your psychologist to determine the best course of treatment for your individual situation.
EMDR does not need to use a light bar or other technology, as it is sometimes shown on tv shows. Using added technology is not shown to make EMDR any more effective and is often a matter of preference, both for the clinician and the client.
EMDR does not need to take place in-person. Depending on therapist training and experience and the specific client concerns, EMDR may be delivered through online therapy.
Therapists at Mendable Psychology Offering EMDR
FAQ for this treatment approach
Q: Can I attend EMDR if I don’t have a diagnosis of PTSD?
A: Yes, EMDR can be helpful in treating PTSD and subclinical trauma symptoms. Frequently, people experience traumatic events but do not have a PTSD diagnosis, which requires a number of specific criteria. EMDR can also be helpful in treating other mental health conditions and treating grief and other concerns, where appropriate.
Q: If I have eye related concerns should I not attempt EMDR?
A: It depends, and always best to discuss with your clinician. Since EMDR doesn’t require the eye movements, treatment could instead use other forms of bilateral movements.
Q: I’m concerned that I will end up doing it wrong. Should I avoid EMDR?
A: This is a really common concern from clients, especially since it is often much different from anything they might have tried before. In EMDR, all thoughts, feelings, and sensations that occur are considered to be relevant and useful information. That is, there is no such thing as ‘doing it wrong’. As always, open communication and discussing concerns with your psychologist is recommended.
Q: What type of therapist training is required to offer EMDR?
A: EMDRIA and EMDR Canada certify licensed mental health professionals in different levels of EMDR training. EMDR basic training is the primary certification which requires 20 hours of education, 20 hours of supervised practice, and 10 consultation hours.
Q: How do I find EMDR therapy in Edmonton
A: Since EMDR has become a more well-known treatment approach, many psychologists and other clinicians have training and offer it. EMDR Canada has a find a therapist directory listing of trained clinicians that offer EMDR therapy.
