Phone: 613-908-9806
What Is EMDR Therapy?
A Proven Therapeutic Approach to Trauma
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based, eight-phase psychotherapy developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro. Recognized treatment for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, EMDR helps the brain heal by supporting its natural ability to process and integrate distressing memories.
Our brains are wired for healing, but overwhelming experiences can disrupt this process—leaving painful memories stuck in what are called maladaptive memory networks. These networks influence how we perceive the world and respond to it, often triggering distress or dysfunctional behavior.
EMDR works by reactivating the brain's adaptive processing system. Through structured phases and bilateral stimulation (such as eye movements), EMDR connects these stuck or traumatic memories with more adaptive memory networks. This reduces the emotional and physical intensity of the memories and shifts negative self-beliefs toward healthier perspectives.
Whether you're coping with trauma, anxiety, or negative self-perceptions, EMDR therapy offers a structured path toward relief and long-term change.
Amani Therapy is currently offering EMDR sessions to individuals living in Ontario, Canada. Reach out today to learn how EMDR can support your healing journey.
​
8 Phases of EMDR
What are the eight phases of EMDR?
EMDR has 8 phases. When we think of EMDR, many of us think of the left right movement of our eyes, which is called bilateral stimulation, but that is actually only a small portion of EMDR!
Phase 1: History Taking
In this phase we spend sessions getting to know you. This is my favourite phase! It is INCREDIBLY important to me that my clients feel known, heard, and seen. We will discuss what presenting concerns you are hoping to address and a plan to target these moving forward (treatment planning).
Phase 2: Resourcing
In in phase we will develop strategies to help you self-soothe, tolerate difficult emotions and increase confidence in utilizing your resources. We are increasing your resiliency and readiness to move into later stages.
Phase 3: Assessment
In this phase we will access and activate neural networks. We do this by identifying a distressing memory as well as an image, a body sensation and negative self-belief associated with the memory. We will also identify a positive belief that you would like to feel more believable.
Phase 4: Desensitization
In this phase we will use bilateral stimulation (BLS) to shift distressing traumatic memories to neutral memories. Bilateral stimulation is stimulation of the right and left hemispheres of your brain. Bilateral stimulation promotes the reprocessing of an experience in an efficient and effective way.
What does this phase feel like? Although it feels different for everyone, you may experience your thoughts ebbing and flowing while also being present within the space with your therapist.
There are many different forms of BLS (tactile, auditory, visual etc.). When we think of visual BLS you may think of a therapist moving their fingers from left to right as the client follows with their eyes. We can also use tactile stimulation (buzzers in each hand) or audio tones left and right in your ears.
Phase 5: Installation
In this phase we install the positive belief that we had identified in Phase 3 OR we develop a new positive belief that feels best for you!
​
Phase 6: Body Scan
In this phase we will identify any lingering negative body sensations through the use of a body scan. These can be processed further and neutralized if needed.
Phase 7: Closure
At the end of each session, we will check in and discuss any resources that may need to be used between sessions. I also ask that client keep a journal or log of experiences between sessions.
Phase 8 Re-evaluation:
In this phase, we check in on our previously worked on target. We will explore if that memory continues to have a charge as well as discussing treatment planning moving forward.
Benefits of EMDR
Wondering how EMDR can help?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy offers a range of powerful benefits for individuals struggling with trauma, anxiety, and stress-related conditions. Backed by clinical research, EMDR is recognized as one of the most effective and efficient trauma treatments available today.
​
Key Benefits of EMDR Therapy:
​
-
Clinically Proven to Reduce PTSD Symptoms: EMDR is highly effective in decreasing the intensity and frequency of symptoms related to post-traumatic stress disorder.
​
-
No Need to Relive Trauma in Detail: Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require you to share every detail of your traumatic experiences—making it a more accessible and less re-traumatizing approach.​
​
-
Relief from Physical Symptoms of Trauma: Reduction in somatic (physical) symptoms
What is EMDR used for?
EMDR has been used to treat:
Depression
Anxiety
Phobias
Addiction
Trauma
Distressing life experiences/events
EMDR FAQs
You Ask - I Answer
Will I be in control?
Yes, you are in control during EMDR therapy. In EMDR we like to use the phrase “one foot in the present and one foot in the past” which is also called dual awareness. Instead of reliving trauma, you will be simply noticing emotions, sensations and images. We use the metaphor of sitting on a train watching scenery pass by. The goal is to stay grounded in knowing that this event has passed while noticing memories and feelings from a safe distance. As mentioned previously, resourcing can help you feel empowered and gain the tools to help you self-soothe. We will also discuss pace and tools to communicate if any discomfort arises.
How long is EMDR treatment?
Each session is 50 minutes in length. EMDR is thought to be more efficient and effective than typical talk therapy however the duration of therapy (like many of my other answers) depends on the individual client and their unique needs!
What if I still want to spend sessions engaging in talk therapy as well?
Some folks prefer to spend some of their sessions engaging in traditional talk therapy and some of their sessions focusing on EMDR. I encourage flexibility and what feels right for you on any given day.