EMDR Therapy Services at Cardinal North Wellness

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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a specialized therapy approach that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic or distressing experiences. It involves bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, to facilitate the brain's natural healing process. 

EMDR works by targeting traumatic memories or distressing experiences and helping the brain reprocess these memories in a more adaptive way. This can lead to symptom reduction and emotional healing.

EMDR therapy is effective in treating conditions such as: 

• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) 
• Anxiety disorders 
• Depression 
• Phobias 
• Trauma-related symptoms
• Grief and loss

During an EMDR session, your therapist will guide you through specific protocols involving bilateral stimulation (such as following a moving light or tapping), while you recall distressing memories or experiences. The goal is to process these memories in a safe and controlled environment.

We use EMDR tappers and light bars. They are tools used during Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to facilitate bilateral stimulation. Bilateral stimulation involves activating both sides of the brain alternately, which is believed to aid in the processing of traumatic memories and distressing experiences.

EMDR tappers are small handheld devices that provide tactile stimulation to both sides of the body simultaneously. They typically vibrate or emit gentle tapping sensations. During an EMDR session, the therapist instructs the client to hold the tappers in their hands while recalling specific traumatic memories or distressing thoughts. The tappers alternate vibrations or taps between the left and right hands, facilitating bilateral stimulation.

EMDR light bars consist of a series of lights that move back and forth horizontally. The client sits facing the light bar, and the therapist adjusts the speed and movement of the lights to create bilateral visual stimulation. Similar to the tappers, the client focuses on the moving lights while engaging in the EMDR therapy process.

The duration of EMDR therapy varies depending on individual needs and the complexity of the issues being addressed. Typically, EMDR therapy involves a series of sessions over several weeks or months. Our session are one hour and fifteen minutes.

EMDR therapy is considered safe when conducted by a trained and licensed therapist. Your therapist will ensure that you feel supported and prepared for each session, maintaining a focus on your well-being throughout the process.

Yes, our therapist at Cardinal North Wellness Collective are trained in EMDR and incorporate this specialized modality into their practice to support clients in their healing journey.        

If you have experienced trauma, distressing events, or struggle with symptoms related to anxiety, depression, or PTSD, EMDR therapy may be beneficial for you. We encourage you to schedule a consultation with one of our therapists to discuss your specific needs and determine if EMDR is a suitable treatment option.

Yes, EMDR therapy can be integrated with other therapeutic modalities, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness techniques, or talk therapy, based on individual needs and treatment goals.

To begin your journey with EMDR therapy at Cardinal North Wellness Collective, please contact us to schedule an initial consultation. Our therapists will assess your needs, discuss treatment options, and create a personalized plan tailored to support your healing and growth.