Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)

What does Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) help with?


Close-up black and white photo of a human eye with detailed texture and eyelashes.

EMDR is a type of therapy that helps people heal from trauma, distressing memories, and emotional pain. It works by helping the brain reprocess painful experiences so they no longer feel as overwhelming.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation — usually eye movements, tapping, or sounds — to help the brain "unstick" from trauma and process memories in a healthier way.

  • Employs the most well-researched form of trauma therapy

  • Targets the trauma that is at the root of present-day mental health troubles

  • Helps the client come up with their own healing answers

  • Promotes actual physical change in the wiring of the brain towards health

  • Desensitizes triggers and upsetting memories so that they are no longer triggering

  • Allows a different way of thinking of past upsetting events

childhood abuse,

ptsd,

sexual abuse,

performance anxiety,

domestic violence,

trauma,

childhood abuse, ptsd, sexual abuse, performance anxiety, domestic violence, trauma,

  • “Sometimes the smallest step in the right direction ends up being the biggest step of your life. Tiptoe if you must, but take a step.”

    -Naeem Callaway

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What you can expect at Selah

We know that every person carries unique experiences and circumstances with them to therapy.

We believe your counselling experience should integrate a process that seeks to bring you hope and change through the following steps:

  1. You will pick whether you want to attend in-person, virtual or hybrid. 

  2. You will get started with your initial session. Relationship building is the most crucial stage during this appointment, as trust and connection are vital in the therapeutic process. It takes “on average”, two or more sessions before you can determine your fit with the therapist. We always say, “Don’t give up on counselling, but connect with a new counsellor if not a good fit.” Don’t hesitate to contact our Intake Coordinator at 519-281-1845 or intake@selahsupport.ca if not a good fit. 80% of your change in therapy is about the relationship with your therapist. 

  3. During your initial sessions, you will share your current circumstances and areas you would like to see changed, and then we will go from there. We want to get to know you.  

  4. Once you and your therapist feel you are comfortable and present concerns and desires are shared, you will begin to work through various activities, skills, and treatment methods We aim to work with you in partnership, helping you gain insight and new skills that create an environment for change. 

Let’s work together.