At Clearheart Counselling we specialize in offering EMDR therapy Vancouver services. EMDR in itself is a type of psychotherapy that has been proven to be effective in treating trauma, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, PTSD, stress and other psychological issues.
EMDR Therapy is based on the belief that healing can come from within. As a result, EMDR Therapy helps individuals to process their traumatic experiences and promote emotional wellbeing.
All of our EMDR therapists in Vancouver are highly trained professionals who have experience in treating a wide variety of psychological issues. If you are looking for professional EMDR Therapy Vancouver Services we can help you out! Contact us today to book an appointment!
What is EMDR Therapy & How Does it Work?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. EMDR is based on the idea that negative, traumatic memories can be processed in order to reduce psychological distress.
EMDR works by having a therapist guide the patient through an eight-phase interactive process which helps them to reprocess their traumatic experiences in a safe and secure environment. This helps in transforming your nervous system to respond to traumatic or triggering experiences of the past.
By diverting attention to eye movement the impact of the memories is dissipated over time. The mind and body gradually adapt to the realization that there is safety.
The threats associated with the experience are no longer present. Bi-laterally moving the eyes, creates a neuron response that de-activates the negative emotions stored from past events. The protocol that a trained EMDR therapist brings to the process, combined with eye-movement, often produces excellent relief.
What are The Phases of EMDR?
The EMDR Therapy Vancouver process is divided into 8 phases:
History Taking – The therapist takes a detailed history of the patient’s traumatic experiences in order to gain an understanding of their present situation and develop a treatment plan.
Preparation – The therapist teaches the patient relaxation techniques that they can use during EMDR sessions.
Assessment – The therapist assesses the patient’s current mental state and identify which memories they should target during EMDR sessions.
Desensitization – The therapist uses EMDR techniques to help the patient reprocess their traumatic memories in a safe environment.
Installation – During this phase, the therapist helps the patient to gain a new and more positive understanding of the traumatic event.
Body Scan – The therapist guides the patient through a body scan to ensure that the EMDR session is complete.
Closure – The EMDR session is concluded with a review of the client’s progress and any additional instructions or support they may need.
Re-evaluation – After EMDR sessions are complete, the therapist follows up with the patient to evaluate their progress.
For the most part here is a brief summary of the general and most notable phases of the process:
These are the general phases of EMDR that are used over a series of sessions:
- History and treatment planning
- Preparation
- Assessment
- Treatment
- Evaluation
In the first phase your counsellor or therapist evaluates and identifies what traumatic experiences to treat. There is history that is reviewed and you along with your counsellor decide on the best way forward in your treatment process.
The next phase consists of learning strategies and techniques to cope with potential emotional and psychological stress that might be experienced from the EMDR therapy.
This might include activities such as deep breathing or mindfulness methods. For the assessment phase a targeted approach for stimulating sensations and reactions associated with each memory is developed.
After the first few phases your counsellor will now be able to guide you through the EMDR therapy and focus on the negative thoughts. The memory or images that might be afflicting you.
While you are actively focusing on these things you will also be given specific eye movements to do. Bilateral stimulation may also be used such as tapping. Other movements that will also assist you in processing the traumatic memories one at a time.
There are instances where you may become overwhelmed. Your stress coping mechanisms will need to be used while being brought back to the present. Slowly over time, the distress caused by specific memories or thoughts will dissipate.
As well the negative psychological reactions that caused the PTSD. After each session you, along with your counselor will assess your progress and note how changes in your responses.
Overall, EMDR therapy Vancouver is an effective treatment for a variety of psychological issues. If you are looking for EMDR Therapy services in Vancouver, contact us today to book an appointment!
What are the Benefits of EMDR Therapy Services in Vancouver?
The EMDR Therapy process provides a wide range of benefits for individuals suffering from psychological distress. EMDR therapy can help to:
- Reduce the intensity of traumatic memories
- Decrease symptoms of depression, anxiety, and PTSD
- Increase self-confidence and promote emotional wellbeing
- Provide a sense of control over one’s thoughts and emotions
- Act as an effective way to process traumatic memories and promote emotional wellbeing
A study in 2012 of 22 people found that 77% of individuals with psychotic disorder and PTSD were able to significantly improve symptoms of hallucinations, anxiety, depression and delusion with EMDR therapy. Even the Department of Veterans Affairs recommends its use for war veterans experiencing PTSD.
A number of studies have also found EMDR therapy to have not only short term benefits but long term beneficial results as well. In one 2004 study that took place over several months that had participants taking “standard care” (SC) treatment or EMDR therapy for treating PTSD, they found that EMDR gave longer and more effective reduction in the symptoms of PTSD.
What are the Possible Side Effects of EMDR?
EMDR therapy is generally considered safe, and found to have few side effects when used to treat PTSD. There can however be some side effects that are resultant of the process of EMDR such as light-headedness, vivid dreams, heightened awareness and thinking that extends beyond the therapy sessions.
EMDR works with the sub-conscious mind. Initial sessions can activate some of these affects, however a skilled EMDR practitioner will pace the sessions appropriately to process whatever occurs.
If you are experiencing anxiety, depression, or other symptoms stemming from past trauma, we suggest you find a skilled EMDR practitioner. At Clear Heart Counselling we have a number of such counsellors highly-trained and skilled to assist you in your healing journey.
FAQ – EMDR Therapy Vancouver
What are some signs that you may need EMDR Therapy?
The signs that EMDR Therapy may be needed can vary from person to person and depend on the individual’s past experiences. However some common indicators include:
– Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
– Flashbacks or intrusive thoughts
– Feeling numb or disconnected from reality
– Reacting strongly to triggers in everyday life
– Low self-esteem or struggling to trust others
– Avoiding activities or situations due to fear
– Struggling to concentrate and stay focused
If you are experiencing any of these signs, EMDR therapy may be a helpful form of treatment. Contact us today to book an appointment!
How much does Individual EMDR Therapy cost in Vancouver?
In regard to individual EMDR therapy our fees are as follows:
- $150 + GST for 1 hour session.
- $200 + GST for 90 minutes.
How Can I Schedule an EMDR Appointment?
If you are interested in scheduling an EMDR appointment in Vancouver, Clearheart Counselling can help! We offer EMDR therapy services to individuals who are seeking treatment for trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health concerns. To schedule a consultation, please call us at 778-316-8080 or click here to book online.
How Can I Check Out More About Your EMDR Therapy Services?
You can also contact us here or give us a call at 778-316-8080.