EMDR Therapy in Calgary
Evidence-based EMDR therapy to help you process trauma, reduce emotional distress, and move forward with greater calm and resilience
EMDR Therapy in Calgary helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they no longer feel overwhelming or intrusive. EMDR is a structured, research-supported approach widely used for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and other experiences that continue to affect emotional well-being.
At Clear Minds Psychology, EMDR is offered to adults and seniors seeking focused, effective support for trauma recovery and emotional healing.
If you’re considering EMDR therapy, a brief consultation can help you determine whether this approach feels like the right fit.
What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing was developed by Francine Shapiro in 1987 and is now used worldwide as an evidence-based treatment for trauma and PTSD.
EMDR uses a structured process with bilateral stimulation (BLS) such as guided eye movements or tapping to help the brain reprocess distressing memories.
When distressing memories remain “stuck,” they can continue to trigger anxiety, fear, shame, or physical stress responses. EMDR helps the brain process those memories more adaptively so:
- You still remember what happened
- The memory feels less emotionally intense
- Physical stress responses reduce
- Negative beliefs begin to shift
The goal is not to erase memory, but to remove the distress attached to it.
If you’re unsure whether EMDR therapy could be the right fit for you, speaking with a psychologist can help clarify your next steps.
What EMDR Can Help With
EMDR therapy in Calgary is commonly used for:
- Trauma and PTSD
- Childhood trauma and complex trauma
- Panic attacks
- Phobias
- Generalised anxiety disorder
- Excessive grief reaction
- Depression linked to difficult life experiences
- Performance anxiety
- Physical pain connected to stress or trauma
EMDR can be especially helpful when past experiences continue to affect how you feel in the present.
How EMDR Therapy Works
At Clear Minds Psychology , EMDR follows the structured eight-phase model developed by Francine Shapiro.
This includes:
- History-taking – Exploring your background and identifying the memories or issues to work on
- Preparation – Learning how EMDR works and building emotional safety and readiness
- Assessment – Identifying the distress connected to a memory and the beliefs linked to it
- Desensitisation & Reprocessing – Using bilateral stimulation while focusing on the memory so the brain can reprocess it
- Installation – Strengthening healthier, more adaptive beliefs
- Body Scan – Checking for any remaining physical tension or distress
- Closure – Ensuring you leave each session feeling grounded and stable
- Re-evaluation – Reviewing progress and determining next steps in future sessions
As therapy progresses, memories often feel less painful and new insight begins to emerge.
How Many EMDR Sessions Will I Need?
Processing one specific memory often takes between one and three sessions, with appointments typically lasting 60–90 minutes.
Many people complete EMDR in approximately 6–12 sessions, although this varies depending on your goals, the complexity of the issue, and your personal history.
Sessions can be scheduled weekly, bi-weekly, twice weekly, or more intensively when appropriate.
Considering EMDR Therapy?
A brief consultation can help you understand how these approaches apply to your specific situation.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
EMDR can help you:
- Reduce trauma-related distress
- Improve emotional regulation and nervous system calm
- Decrease anxiety, panic, and intrusive thoughts
- Strengthen self-confidence and emotional resilience
- Feel safer, more present, and more in control
Who I Work With
I work primarily with:
- Adults (18+)
- Seniors
- Working professionals
- University students
- Individuals across Calgary and Alberta
My practice focuses on individual therapy. If you are seeking couples or family therapy, I can help direct you to appropriate resources.
If this sounds like your situation, you’re welcome to reach out to explore whether EMDR therapy may be helpful.
Professional Credentials
- Registered Psychologist, Province of Alberta (College of Alberta Psychologists)
- Master’s Degree in Counselling Psychology (MACP), Yorkville University
- Advanced training in EMDR and Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
- Member of Psychologists’ Association of Alberta (PAA) and IS-ART
- Contributor, Alberta Senior Living Magazine — Spring Mental Health Check-In: Managing Anxiety, SAD Transitions & Light Exposure
About the Psychologist
Michelle Fox is a Registered Psychologist in Calgary with over 30 years of experience supporting adults through trauma recovery and emotional healing. She provides EMDR therapy using a structured, compassionate approach that helps clients process difficult experiences safely and effectively.
Learn more about Michelle Fox, Registered Psychologist in Calgary.
FAQ: EMDR Therapy in Calgary
Is EMDR only for trauma?
No. While EMDR is best known for treating trauma and PTSD, it can also be effective for anxiety, panic attacks, grief, phobias, and performance anxiety.
Do I have to talk about everything in detail?
Not necessarily. EMDR focuses on processing the memory rather than repeatedly discussing every detail, which many people find less overwhelming than traditional talk therapy.
How quickly does EMDR work?
Some people notice improvement within a few sessions, especially when working on a specific memory. More complex concerns may take longer depending on your history and goals.
Book a Free Consultation
If you are considering EMDR, a brief consultation can help you determine whether this approach feels like the right fit.
Clear Minds Psychology offers EMDR therapy in Calgary and online across Alberta, offering structured, evidence-based support tailored to your needs.
You can book a free consultation to discuss your concerns and next steps.