eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (emdr)

"I went into EMDR being slightly skeptical and unsure of the process. Although I can’t explain how or why, I had a few breakthroughs during the process that really helped me process trauma and feel lighter when thinking about situations that have happened and feel confident that I could handle them if they were to happen again."

•.•.•

"EMDR with Michael was such a cool experience. I feel like I was able to process things that I didn't even know I needed to process. I feel like I was able to get the full experience, even doing my EMDR sessions virtually. I highly recommend EMDR to everyone who needs to process situations that are hard to understand."

•.•.•

"I went into EMDR being slightly skeptical and unsure of the process. Although I can’t explain how or why, I had a few breakthroughs during the process that really helped me process trauma and feel lighter when thinking about situations that have happened and feel confident that I could handle them if they were to happen again." •.•.• "EMDR with Michael was such a cool experience. I feel like I was able to process things that I didn't even know I needed to process. I feel like I was able to get the full experience, even doing my EMDR sessions virtually. I highly recommend EMDR to everyone who needs to process situations that are hard to understand." •.•.•

  • Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

What is it?

EMDR is a structured therapy that encourages the patient to focus briefly on the trauma memory while simultaneously experiencing bilateral stimulation (typically eye movements), which is associated with a reduction in the vividness and emotion associated with the trauma memories. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an extensively researched, effective psychotherapy method proven to help people recover from trauma and PTSD symptoms. Ongoing research supports positive clinical outcomes showing EMDR therapy as a helpful treatment for disorders such as anxiety, depression, OCD, chronic pain, addictions, and other distressing life experiences (Maxfield, 2019). EMDR therapy has even been superior to Prozac in trauma treatment (Van der Kolk et al., 2007). Shapiro and Forrest (2016) share that more than 7 million people have been treated successfully by 110,000 therapists in 130 countries since 2016.

(Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing International Institute, 2023)

  • Click here to view FAQs about EMDR.

What areas will you utilize EMDR to treat individuals interested in this approach?

EMDR can be used to treat many different things; however, it’s only ethical to utilize EMDR to treat individuals in the areas the therapist already works in. The areas of practice I will typically use EMDR are listed below (Please Note: This is only for individuals interested in EMDR; otherwise, other therapeutic approaches will be utilized):

  • Addiction & Addiction Triggers

  • Developmental & Relational Trauma

  • Sexual Betrayal Trauma

  • Grief & Loss

  • Negative Cognitions & Core Beliefs

What can I expect?

  • Typically, I recommend EMDR when individuals have plateaued in the work they’re doing and would like to do some deeper work, as well as if I’ve assessed the individual to be ready for EMDR.

  • EMDR is an 8-phase process, where I often begin with psychoeducation to allow the individual I’m working with to make an informed decision about doing EMDR.

  • The 8 phases of EMDR are: 1) History-Taking and Treatment Planning; 2) Preparation; 3) Assessment; 4) Desensitization; 5) Installation; 6) Body Scan; 7) Closure; and 8) Reevaluation.

  • Depending on what we’re using EMDR to treat, there may be a slightly different protocol, with additional steps.

How much do you charge for EMDR?

My rates are based on the length of the session, so rates are the same as my individual counselling & therapy rates:

60 minutes - $155.00
90 minutes - $232.50


Payment can be made by: Credit card or eTransfer (klubatherapy@gmail.com), and is paid at the time of your appointment. You can add your credit card or bank account number to your secure client portal account created for you once we begin working together. This allows for a smooth and streamlined payment. Click here to learn more about how you can make payments. Receipts are emailed to you, following your appointment.
Cancellation policy: As I am a private therapist, and because your appointment time may have been filled by another client, I have a 24-hour cancellation policy. If you are required to cancel your appointment, I require 24 hours notice via email or telephone. The full session cost will be invoiced for any late cancellations or no-shows.
Insurance/Benefits:

  • I am a Registered Social Worker. Insurance plans and extended benefits often cover services for Registered Social Workers. Please inquire with your insurance provider with any questions regarding your coverage. Please note: I do not direct bill to third party insurance plans. Session fees must be paid by the client in full at the time of your appointment. Your receipt can then be submitted to your insurance provider for reimbursement. 

  • Also, I am an approved counsellor with Victim Services, and I’m a mental health provider with Non-Insured Health Benefits (NIHB). Please inquire with these organizations for further information on obtaining coverage for counselling/therapy.