EMDR Therapy: A Proven Approach for Healing Trauma and Anxiety

If you're struggling with trauma, anxiety, or distressing memories, EMDR therapy may offer the relief you've been searching for. Short for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, EMDR is a scientifically-backed treatment that helps individuals heal from emotional wounds — often faster than traditional talk therapy.

Whether you're recovering from PTSD, childhood trauma, or chronic anxiety, EMDR therapy can help you process the past and regain control of your life.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is a structured, 8-phase therapy approach developed by Dr. Francine Shapiro in the 1980s. It’s designed to help people process traumatic or emotionally charged experiences by using bilateral stimulation — typically through guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds — while focusing on distressing memories.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR doesn’t require you to go into detail about the event. Instead, it allows the brain to “reprocess” painful memories so they feel less overwhelming.

How EMDR Works

EMDR follows a systematic protocol that includes:

1. Assessment: Your therapist helps identify specific memories or triggers causing emotional pain.

2. Preparation: You’ll learn grounding and coping skills to manage emotional distress.

3. Desensitization: While focusing on a memory, your therapist guides you through bilateral stimulation (e.g., eye movements).

4. Reprocessing & Installation: The emotional charge of the memory decreases, and new, healthier beliefs replace the old (e.g., “I am safe” replaces “I am in danger”).

This process helps restore emotional balance and unlock natural healing pathways.

Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy

At Healing Source Counselling, we use EMDR therapy to support clients facing:

• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

• Childhood abuse or neglect

• Grief and complicated loss

• Anxiety and panic attacks

• First responder or military trauma

• Medical trauma or accidents

• Phobias and performance anxiety

EMDR is suitable for adults, teens, and even children with the right therapeutic support.

Why Choose EMDR?

EMDR therapy is recognized by leading organizations like the American Psychological Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO) as a first-line treatment for trauma.

Benefits of EMDR include:

• Faster progress than talk therapy in many cases

• No need to relive trauma in detail

• Long-lasting results

• A structured, evidence-based process

• Safe for both recent and long-term trauma

If you're feeling stuck despite previous therapy or coping strategies, EMDR may be the breakthrough you need.

EMDR Therapy through Healing Source Counselling

We specialize in trauma-informed care and guide clients through every step of the EMDR process with compassion and expertise.

We offer therapy both in person and online.

Start Your Healing Journey Today

You don’t have to carry your pain alone. EMDR therapy offers a clear path toward relief, clarity, and confidence. At Healing Source Counselling, we’re here to help you feel safe, supported, and empowered.

Schedule a free consultation or book your first EMDR session today. Email us at healingsourcecounselling@gmail.com

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does EMDR therapy take?Treatment varies by individual, but many clients see progress within 6–12 sessions.

Is EMDR therapy safe?Yes, when guided by a trained therapist. EMDR is well-tolerated and non-invasive.

Do you offer EMDR for children or teens?Yes, we offer adapted EMDR protocols for younger clients.