EMDR Therapy in Calgary

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-informed therapy for trauma and distressing memories. It uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, alternating tones, or alternating taps, to help the brain process memories that still carry emotional weight.

At The Cohen Clinic, serving Calgary and surrounding Alberta communities, our Calgary EMDR therapists offer virtual EMDR therapy in Calgary paced to your readiness, stability, and goals.

Understanding EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

EMDR helps the brain reprocess memories that remain “stuck,” so they carry less distress and feel more like they belong to the past rather than the present. It’s a structured approach, guided by your therapist, rather than something you work through alone.

A defining part of EMDR is bilateral stimulation, alternating left-right sensory input, which is used while you hold aspects of a memory in mind. Over the course of treatment, this can help reduce the intensity of the memory and shift how it’s understood.

What Brings People to EMDR in Calgary

After a difficult or traumatic experience, some memories can stay “stuck” in a way that keeps distress feeling current. This can look like:

Intrusive memories or images
Heightened startle response or hypervigilance
Avoidance of reminders
Emotional reactions that feel disproportionate to the moment
Body-based stress responses (tight chest, nausea, racing heart)

EMDR targets these patterns directly, working toward memories that feel less charged and more resolved.

What to Expect in our EMDR Sessions:

EMDR treatment generally moves through four stages:

Preparation and stabilization: Before memory work begins, you and your therapist build grounding and calming skills together. This step supports safety and consistency throughout treatment.

Target selection: You and your Calgary EMDR therapist identify which memories, triggers, or themes to focus on, and set clear goals.

Reprocessing: With guidance, you focus on the target memory while using bilateral stimulation. Many people notice the memory becomes less intense over time.

Integration: Sessions include time to consolidate progress and apply what’s shifted to daily life, relationships, and coping

We Know That Taking The First Step Can Be Hard.
Let Us Help.

Our Commitment to You:

An inclusive, affirmative and safe environment for 2SLGBTQI+ clients
Therapists trained to be sensitive and inclusive to cultural and racial diversity
Evidence-based, holistic and client-centred approaches to treatment

EMDR Therapy at The Cohen Clinic in Calgary

At The Cohen Clinic, EMDR is offered by clinicians trained in the approach, with attention to pacing, consent, and emotional safety throughout. Sessions for Calgary clients are held virtually, in line with College of Alberta Psychologists guidelines for clients residing in Alberta.

If you’re looking for a Calgary EMDR clinic, our psychologists, psychotherapists, and social workers can help you assess fit, set goals, and build a plan for steady progress.