EMDR Therapy Calgary
Process and heal from trauma with structured, evidence-based therapy to reduce distress and foster emotional resilience
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro in 1987 and is now used worldwide as an effective, research-backed treatment for trauma and PTSD.
EMDR uses a structured process along with bilateral stimulation (BLS), such as eye movements or tapping, to help your brain reprocess distressing memories. Studies show BLS reduces the vividness of negative images and lessens the emotional intensity tied to them. When we complete EMDR successfully, your brain transforms the memory into something less distressing and more adaptive. You still remember the event, but it no longer triggers the same emotional or physical reaction. This shift helps you release fear, reclaim your sense of safety, and move forward.
Who can benefit from EMDR therapy in Calgary?
EMDR Therapy in Calgary can help you recover from experiences such as:
- Serious accidents
- Emotional, physical, and sexual abuse
- Complex childhood abuse
- Military combat
- Natural disasters
- Medical trauma
- Violence or sudden loss
Traumatic memories can also stem from:
- Betrayals
- Bereavement
- Bullying
- Neglect or abandonment
- Personal humiliations and major disappointments
What Other Issues Can EMDR therapy Help With?
Research shows EMDR effectively treats more than trauma and PTSD. Many clients also find relief from:
- Panic attacks
- Phobias
- Generalised anxiety disorder
- Excessive grief reaction
- Depression
- Physical pain
- Performance anxiety
What to Expect in an EMDR Therapy Session
At Clear Minds Psychology in Calgary, I follow Francine Shapiro’s eight phases of EMDR treatment:
- History-taking – We discuss your background and identify the memories you want to work on.
- Preparation – I explain the process and ensure you feel safe and ready.
- Assessment – We measure the distress linked to your memory.
- Desensitisation & Reprocessing – You focus on the traumatic memory while engaging in eye movements or tapping.
- Installation – We strengthen positive beliefs to replace the old, negative ones.
- Body Scan – We process any lingering physical sensations.
- Closure – We ensure you leave each session feeling stable.
- Re-evaluation – We assess your progress in future sessions.
As we work, you’ll notice new thoughts and insights arise, and the memory will feel less painful.
How Long Does EMDR Therapy in Calgary Take?
Processing a specific memory usually takes one to three sessions, each lasting 60–90 minutes. We can meet once or twice a week, or on consecutive days if you prefer. Most people complete EMDR in six to twelve sessions, although treatment time varies depending on your needs.
Why Choose EMDR in Calgary?
EMDR therapy helps you process distressing memories so they no longer feel overwhelming or intrusive. It’s an evidence-based approach proven to reduce symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and stress. By targeting both the emotional and physical effects of past experiences, EMDR supports:
- Relief from trauma-related distress
- Improved emotional regulation
- Greater sense of safety and control
- Enhanced self-awareness and resilience
Choosing EMDR in Calgary can help you move beyond the past and regain a sense of calm and confidence in daily life.
Start Your EMDR Therapy in Calgary Today
At Clear Minds Psychology, EMDR therapy in Calgary is tailored to your unique needs and pace. Whether you’re coping with past trauma, grief, or ongoing stress, EMDR can help you feel more grounded, present, and in control. The process is collaborative and respectful, supporting both safety and empowerment as you work toward lasting emotional well-being.
If you’re ready to move beyond the impact of past experiences, book a free brief consultation with Clear Minds Psychology today. Call 403-389-8771 or contact me online to start your healing journey.
Clear Minds Psychology for Trauma Counselling in Calgary
At Clear Minds Psychology, I specialise in trauma-focused, evidence-based therapies for adults and seniors. Alongside EMDR, I offer ART, CBT, ACT for a comprehensive approach to healing. I offer in-person or online sessions, whichever fits your needs best. My goal is to create a safe, supportive space where you can process and move beyond distressing experiences.