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Our Psychology Team Offers

EMDR Therapy in Calgary

Looking for professional EMDR therapy in Calgary? Flourish Psychological Services offers expert support to help you heal from trauma, anxiety, and depression. Begin your journey today.

EMDR Therapy

Start Your Healing Journey with EMDR Therapy in Calgary

Trauma affects everyone differently, and no two paths to healing are the same. At Flourish Psychological Services, we’ll work with you to develop an Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy plan tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re beginning your journey to recovery or seeking advanced support for longstanding trauma, our team is here to guide you forward in a way that feels safe, supportive, and empowering.

 

Our dedicated EMDR therapists take a compassionate and individualized approach to care. We take the time to understand your story and the impact trauma has had on your life. By recognizing the personal history and circumstances that shape your experiences, we create a treatment plan that aligns with your goals and helps you heal at your own pace. Let us support you on your journey to resilience and emotional well-being.

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is an evidence-based therapy designed to help people work through distressing memories and experiences. It uses bilateral stimulation—like side-to-side eye movements, gentle tapping, or specific sounds—to help your brain process and reframe these memories in a way that feels less overwhelming.

 

What makes EMDR different from traditional therapy is that the focus is on reprocessing the thoughts, emotions, and beliefs tied to distressing experiences rather than relying solely on open discussion. While you may not need to share every detail of your trauma, EMDR does involve engaging with cognitive activations—such as fears of death or feelings of self-worth—related to the event. It’s a guided, supportive process that works with your brain’s natural ability to heal, helping you move forward with greater clarity and resilience. This approach has been carefully developed to provide meaningful relief in a safe and manageable way.

Psychologist's Office
Foggy Lake

Is It Right For Me?

Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is a powerful tool for people struggling with a wide range of mental health challenges. It’s designed to help you process and heal from difficult experiences in a way that feels safe and manageable. This therapy is especially helpful for:

 

  • Trauma and PTSD: If you’ve experienced distressing events that feel impossible to move past, EMDR can help you work through those memories and reduce their emotional impact.
     

  • Anxiety and Depression: EMDR addresses the root causes of anxious or depressive feelings, helping you regain a sense of calm and control in your daily life.
     

  • Grief and Loss: For those navigating the pain of losing someone or something important, EMDR offers support to help ease the emotional weight and find a way forward.
     

  • Chronic Stress and Emotional Overwhelm: If you feel stuck in patterns of stress or emotional ups and downs, EMDR can provide relief and help you regain balance.

 

No matter where you are in your journey, EMDR meets you where you are. Whether you’re working through a traumatic experience or trying to ease recurring anxiety, this approach is personalized to your needs. If you’re seeking compassionate trauma-focused therapy in Calgary, EMDR might be the solution you’ve been searching for.

What to Expect During Your First EMDR Session

Your journey with EMDR therapy begins with a 15-minute, no-obligation phone consultation where you’ll meet with one of our licensed EMDR therapists in Calgary. This consultation offers a chance to share your concerns, ask questions, and explore how EMDR therapy can support your healing journey. We take pride in creating a welcoming, judgment-free environment that honours each person’s unique experiences and identity.

 

Following your consultation, your first EMDR session is designed to help you feel comfortable and supported as you begin the therapeutic process. Your therapist will explain how EMDR works, introducing the stages and techniques that will be used to help you heal. Together, you’ll identify the memories, emotions, or experiences that will serve as the focus of therapy, ensuring the plan is tailored to your needs. You’ll also practice grounding and relaxation techniques, which are integral to feeling safe and empowered throughout the process. This session is the foundation of your individualized therapy plan—a compassionate, collaborative approach designed to help you process past experiences, reframe distressing thoughts, and build the tools you need to move forward with resilience and confidence

How Does EMDR Therapy Work?

EMDR therapy helps your brain process and reframe distressing memories that may feel “stuck” in a heightened emotional state. These memories are often tied to intense emotions or limiting beliefs that can disrupt daily life. EMDR works by activating your brain’s natural healing ability, allowing these memories to be reframed and stored in a more neutral and manageable way.

 

Your therapist will guide you in targeting specific memories or experiences while focusing on the emotions and beliefs associated with them. Through the reprocessing process, the emotional weight of these memories diminishes, helping you break free from their hold. EMDR isn’t about erasing the past—it’s about changing how your brain responds, empowering you to move forward with clarity, resilience, and a sense of relief.

How is EMDR Therapy Different from Traditional Talk Therapy?

EMDR therapy offers a structured, focused approach to addressing unresolved memories and their emotional impact, setting it apart from traditional talk therapy. Instead of relying solely on verbal exploration, EMDR uses techniques like bilateral stimulation—guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds—to help your brain process distressing events. This unique approach allows you to work through traumatic memories by targeting the emotions, beliefs, and physical sensations tied to them.

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One key difference is that EMDR doesn’t require you to share your story in great detail. Instead, it focuses on addressing the emotions, thoughts, or behaviours connected to those experiences, working with your brain’s natural healing abilities. This makes the memory and associated feelings more manageable over time. EMDR is particularly effective for conditions like PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related concerns, offering a targeted, supportive pathway to healing that differs from traditional methods of therapy.

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Why Choose Flourish?

At Flourish Psychological Services, we take a personalized approach to EMDR therapy, tailoring each session to fit your unique needs. Our therapists are highly trained in EMDR and bring years of experience in trauma-focused care. Most importantly, we’re committed to creating a safe and supportive environment where you can feel understood and comfortable.

 

We understand how challenging it can be to make time for therapy, which is why we offer flexible options to fit your schedule. Our goal isn’t just to help you manage symptoms but to guide you toward lasting healing—helping you process difficult memories, build resilience, and rediscover your sense of balance and control. When you’re ready to begin, we’ll be here to walk alongside you every step of the way.

Different Types of Therapy for Trauma and PTSD

We offer a range of trauma therapy and PTSD therapy options tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual. At our clinic, our specialized approaches provide valuable insights and effective tools to process past experiences, build resilience, and foster healing on your journey to recovery.

Our 3 Main Approaches

1) Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) helps address trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression by identifying and challenging negative thought patterns. It equips individuals with practical tools to manage emotions, reduce anxiety, and change unhelpful behaviours, providing a structured path to recovery and well-being.

2) Narrative Therapy

Narrative therapy helps you explore and reshape the stories you tell about your life, especially those shaped by trauma. By separating your identity from the trauma, this approach allows you to reframe experiences in a way that highlights your strengths and resilience. It empowers you to take control of your story and move forward with a more positive and hopeful outlook.

3) Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)

Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) uses guided eye movements and visualization to help reprocess trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and depression without requiring you to relive or share every detail. By changing how distressing memories are stored, ART reduces their emotional and physical impact, offering a fast, non-invasive path to healing and resilience.

EMDR for Trauma and PTSD in Calgary

We provide personalized EMDR therapy options designed to address the unique needs of every individual. At our Calgary clinic, our specialized EMDR approach offers effective techniques and meaningful insights to help you process past experiences, develop resilience, and find healing as you move forward on your recovery journey.

Scheduling an EMDR Session in Calgary

Even if you’ve never booked an EMDR therapy session before, scheduling one is simple. Follow the steps below.

Sitting by the Lake

1

15-Minute Consultation

Start by filling out our user-friendly online contact form, which will set you up with a free 15-minute consultation with a therapist of your choice. That’s where you’ll briefly share your personal concerns and what you hope to achieve. It also gives us the opportunity to make sure we’re a good fit for you, too.

2

Choose Your Therapist

After your free consultation, take the time to reflect on your experience and decide if you feel comfortable and connected with the therapist you spoke with. If so, you can book your first therapy session. If not, we can try someone else, or recommend a different clinic if we feel we cannot provide you with what you need.

3

Choose Appointment

Choose the format – in-person or online – that best suits your comfort level and circumstances.  Our virtual sessions are always secure, confidential, and convenient, but if you aren't a fan of online and would prefer face-to-face interactions, we'll warmly welcome you for your appointment!

  • How much does therapy cost?
    Therapy ranges from 175-250 dollars per hour, depending on your provider, level of education, and training. Total cost will depend on the severity of difficulties you are experiencing, and the length of treatment required. Pricing is set by the Psychologist's Association of Alberta
  • Is counselling covered by my health insurance?
    Yes! Typically your private health insurance such as Blue Cross, SunLife, Manulife will cover the cost of qualified registered therapist such as Psychologist. Check with your insurance to see what benefits you are entitled to. Benefits typically reset at the end of the year or in April. Make the most of your benefits! Read our blog: "Are Calgary Psychological Services Covered By Benefits?"
  • Do you offer direct billing?
    At this time we can direct bill Blue Cross, and Green shield. We hope other insurance providers will soon offer this convenient option as well. If you are with a different company because we do all invoices and subsequent receipts electronically, you can submit your claims and most clients report to us that they are reimbursed quite quickly.
  • How do I know which therapist to pick?
    There is good research to suggest that a good "fit" between you and your therapist is a prime driver in whether you will get the most out of therapy. We recommend you browse the therapist's profiles and choose someone who resonates with you, and specializes in what you are most concerned about.
  • What form of payment do you accept?
    We accept all major credit cards, e-transfers, cheque or cash. Payment is due the day services are rendered.
  • What is Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART)
    ART incorporates a combination of techniques used in many other traditional psychotherapies. ARTworks directly to reprogram the way in which distressing memories and images are stored in the brain so that they no longer trigger strong physical and emotional reactions. ART accomplishes this through the use of rapid eye movements similar to eye movements that occur during dreaming. Although techniques similar to these are used in other types of therapies. ART’s very specific and directive approach can achieve rapid recovery from symptoms and reactions that may have been present for many years. ART combines long respected, sound treatment practices with safe and effective methods validated by current scientific research studies conducted by the University of South Florida.
  • Will therapy work for me?
    While individual therapy can be highly beneficial for many people, its effectiveness depends on your willingness to engage in the process and work collaboratively with your therapist. If you go in with an open mind and a real dedication to self-improvement, chances are very good that you’ll see positive results.
  • How do I find the right therapist for me?
    Your free 15-minute consultation allows you to connect with potential therapists and determine the best fit for you. It seems unnecessary but this is a vital step in establishing a strong relationship of trust and healing.
  • Can I get free individual counselling?
    We currently do not offer free counselling services. However, many health insurance plans cover our services, and we strive to provide affordable and accessible therapy options to accommodate various financial situations. Read more on our main FAQ page.
  • How do I know if I need individual therapy?
    If you find yourself facing personal challenges, emotional distress, relationship difficulties, or simply seeking personal growth, individual therapy can be a valuable resource to help you navigate these concerns and foster positive changes in your life.
  • What is individual counselling?
    Individual counselling is one form of therapy where a skilled and educated therapist meets with you one-on-one to explore your experiences and your thoughts, feelings, and beliefs in a safe and confidential space. The goal of individual therapy is to help you gain insight and new perspectives into your challenges, develop adaptive coping skills, and make positive lasting changes in your life.
  • How long does personal counselling take?
    The length of personal counselling varies based on your needs and goals that you want to achieve. Some people may only need a small amount of sessions to address a specific issue, while other people may require more extensive treatment over a longer period of time. Your therapist will work with you to figure out a treatment plan that is tailored to your individual needs.
  • What types of issues can individual counselling help with?
    Individual counseling can help with a wide range of issues, including anxiety, depression, stress, relationship problems, self-esteem, grief and loss, trauma, and addiction. It can also be helpful for those facing major life transitions, ie., divorce or retirement. Most everyone benefits from having a neutral party listen to their experiences and help gain new perspectives.
  • What can I expect during my own session?
    During an individual counselling session in Calgary, you can expect to have an open and honest conversation with your therapist about your concerns. Your therapist will ask additional questions to gain a better understanding of your situation. Your therapist may recommend resources such as books, articles, or videos for you to look at in between sessions. Sessions are typically 50-60 minutes long and are held on a regular basis, usually weekly or bi-weekly or monthly.
  • How do I know if individual counselling is right for me?
    Individual counselling can be a very beneficial form of therapy for anyone who is looking to improve their mental health and wellbeing. If you are struggling with a certain issue or are experiencing symptoms of anxiety or depression, individual counselling could be a good option for you to look into. It is important to find yourself a therapist who you feel comfortable talking to and who has significant experience in treating your specific concerns.
  • What's your couples counselling strategy based on?
    Our couples counseling therapy is based on the world-renowned Gottman Institute methodology of marriage and relationship therapy. This service begins with a thorough assessment; including interviews both together and individually, as well as a number of online assessments. The assessment takes 4-6 hours. After you have received feedback from the assessment we will work together to overcome weaknesses in the relationship. Treatment length varies depending on your unique relationship needs.
  • How much does couples counselling cost in Calgary?
    Prices range due to a variety of factors, and is set at a provincial level by the Psychology Association of Alberta. The usual price is between $220-$250 per 60-minute session. However, the actual cost to you might be substantially lower or even zero, since nearly all benefits plans cover services delivered by a registered therapist. We can even direct bill several of them, such as Blue Cross and Green Shield. Check your insurance documentation to see what you are entitled to, and you can find more specific information summarized here.
  • Do you also offer marriage counselling?
    Yes. Marriage counselling and couples counselling are very similar. All marriages are couples but not all couples are married. Many of the same methods used to help couples in common law or longterm relationships are also used for couples who are married. Learn All About Marriage Counselling in our blog!
  • Is marriage counselling covered by insurance?
    Yes! As we’ve mentioned before, we are registered professionals – which means most insurance plans cover our services. Depending on the company, you can direct bill (as we do), but otherwise you can submit the receipts to your insurance provider.
  • Is marriage counselling free?
    Unfortunately it is not, but the costs are usually covered by insurance. Read more on our blog about benefits.
  • Is marriage counselling tax deductible?
    This is a bit of a grey area, as it depends on what province you live in. In Alberta, psychologist services are considered a tax-deductible medical expense, but someone who is solely a marriage and family therapist is not. Follow the information on the Government of Canada site for more information.
  • How many marriage counselling sessions will be needed?
    This varies quite a bit from one couple to another. If the sessions are in response to a big crisis, they will need more than if it is simply some maintenance issues. It’s very difficult to give even a ballpark figure.
  • Will marriage counselling help save my marriage?
    The key word here is “help”. Counselling is just one part of a marriage success strategy that involves additional effort on the part of both spouses. If you are willing to put the work in, take the counsellor’s advice, and make things better, you will have much different results than if you have already made up your mind beforehand about ending the relationship. We do good work, but we can’t perform miracles!
  • Why does marriage counselling fail?
    The biggest reason that people don’t get the results they want is that they don’t put in the necessary effort, but it may also come down to a lack of financial resources, or a complete disconnection of goals and communication on one side of the relationship. Mutual respect and motivation are minimum requirements for success. You can read more about getting the most out of therapy sessions here.
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