Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is used to treat troubling symptoms such as anger, anxiety, depression, guilt, and posttraumatic reactions. It can also be used to enhance emotional resources such as confidence and self-esteem.

EMDR is a non-drug, non-hypnosis psychotherapy procedure. Clients are guided through concentrating on a troubling memory or emotion while moving the eyes or bilateral simulation (gentle leg tapping). This rapid movement has been shown to speed the client’s movement through the healing process.

EMDR is different for everyone because the healing process is guided from within. Sometimes past issues or memories come up, which are related to the current concern. Sometimes a painful memory brings up unpleasant emotions or body sensations. This is normal and generally passes within a few minutes, as long as the EMDR is not stopped. The upsetting emotion or memory often seems to fade into the past and lose its power.

In therapy, and with EMDR, you can face the memory in a safe setting, so that you do not feel overwhelmed. Then you can get through it and move on.

There are specific procedures to be followed depending on your presenting problem, emotional stability, medical condition, and other factors.

Although there are safety procedures built in to the EMDR process, it can still be an intense experience. The aim of each EMDR session is to help you feel less upset at the end of the session. But sometimes it’s hard to work through a difficult issue even in a 90-minute session.

Processing the material may occur for days or even weeks after the session, perhaps having new insights, vivid dreams, strong feelings, or memory recall. As the distressing symptoms fade, you can work with the therapist on developing new skills and ways of coping.

The length of EMDR therapy depends on several factors including the nature of the presenting issue being treated, the client history, and the client ability to tolerate high levels of disturbance. In some cases, one EMDR treatment session is enough. Usually, it takes weeks to months, but sometimes years of treatment are required. When EMDR therapy is used appropriately, it can significantly shorten the overall length of time in therapy.

Typically, EMDR sessions are recommended to be 90 minutes long for adequate reprocessing time and safe closure.

Individual sessions will take place online over Skype/Zoom, etc.

Associate fees with Martha Isabel Morales, MACP(N/D), MA (DBT), RPC, EMDR, RCC are $275 for 90 mins.

Please contact us for more information and availability.

Connect with us today at [email protected] or call or text us at 604 723-5134 to find out if EMDR is right for you.

This has benefited me so much because I have learned to listen to my partner. I used to think that this cycle of anger would never end. The abused becomes the abuser... but I am ready to end it and become a better father and a better husband.
Taking Alistair's course has allowed me to resurrect my marriage. The key thing is that he will not eliminate your anger, but teach you how to manage it and how to handle stressful situations with your partner. I am now feeling more comfortable on the probability of saving my marriage.
It has helped me in every situation that has occurred since we had class, I recognize the steps and I resolve my situations intelligently.
I understand now that nothing comes from staying in the situation and being angry. I recognize the steps towards anger and I use precautions, it has lowered my stress as it's much easier to become happy again.
I have endured some pretty crazy situations and I have chosen my happiness when I could've lowered myself and chosen the path of sadness and destruction.
Thank you, you have given me tools to add to my belt and take control of my life.
I understand my anger way better than before and therefore have a much better idea of what is underneath it and how to manage it.
I felt very comfortable in the office, very relaxed, and always able to express my honesty without fear or shame. Alistair is very easy to talk to, and I felt a rapport with him right way.
The most important thing that I've learned is awareness. The ability to control my emotions, and the environment around them, simply by being aware. Coming to these sessions has increased my ability to focus on the bigger picture, and what is truly important in life.
I got a shitload of new tools and ideas. Plus, I got to meet some really great people.