What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR is a structured therapy for trauma. The American Psychological Association (APA) describes it as asking the client to briefly focus on a trauma memory while experiencing bilateral stimulation, typically eye movements.
The APA's PTSD guideline conditionally recommends EMDR as a second-line treatment. It lists cognitive behavioural therapy, cognitive processing therapy and prolonged exposure as strongly recommended first-line options.
EMDRIA, the field's international association, also lists anxiety, depression and grief among conditions therapists treat with it.
The APA ranking is a good reason to ask a therapist about their wider trauma training. On First Session, the intro videos and bios show how each therapist describes their approach before you book.
What to know about EMDR in Saskatoon
Online and in-person
Most of Saskatchewan stays on Central Standard Time all year, according to the Government of Saskatchewan. When other provinces change their clocks, the gap with an out-of-province therapist shifts, so confirm each session time in Saskatchewan time.
A systematic review of 16 online EMDR studies found it feasible and potentially effective. Most studies were single-arm, and only three reported fidelity assessment.
Credentials in Saskatchewan
The Saskatchewan College of Psychologists says only registered members may use the title Psychologist. Under The Social Workers Act, only members of the Saskatchewan Association of Social Workers may use the title social worker.
The Canadian Counselling and Psychotherapy Association reports that Saskatchewan does not yet regulate counselling therapists. Its page, current as of February 2024, says FACT-SK has submitted a regulation application.
Cost and insurance
First Session's comparison chart lists $200 to $300 per session for psychologists and $50 to $90 or more for social workers. It lists Canadian Certified Counsellors at $50 to $200 or more.
A University of Saskatchewan clinic fee schedule lists $200 an hour as the standard psychologist fee set by the Psychology Association of Saskatchewan. Rates slide down with household income.
Veterans Affairs Canada lists psychologists, social workers and Canadian Certified Counsellors among its covered professionals. Check which designations your own plan names.
What a course of EMDR looks like
The APA describes eight phases: history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure and re-evaluation. It is typically delivered one to two times per week for 6 to 12 sessions.
How to choose an EMDR therapist in Saskatoon
1Ask about EMDRIA certification
Ask whether the therapist is EMDRIA-certified or has completed the basic training. Certification requires a current license to practise independently, two years of experience, 50 EMDR sessions with 25 clients, 20 hours of consultation and 12 EMDRIA credit hours.
2Ask what preparation involves
Preparation comes before any memory work in the eight-phase model. Ask what it looks like with this therapist and how many sessions they expect before processing begins.
3Ask about other trauma training
Since the APA ranks other therapies as first-line, ask whether the therapist is also trained in cognitive behavioural therapy or prolonged exposure.
4Match the designation to your plan
Psychologists and social workers hold protected titles in Saskatchewan. Each profile shows the designation and fee, so you can compare it with your plan's list before you book.
5Use the free consultation
Watch the intro video, then book the free 15-minute consultation from the profile. Ask how the therapist would slow the pace if you need a break.
Looking for something more specific?
Filter by specialty in Saskatoon
Trauma therapists in Saskatoon
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Anxiety therapists in Saskatoon
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Helpful reading
EMDR therapy in Canada
Online vs. in-person therapy
What is sliding scale therapy?
Psychiatrist vs. psychologist vs. social worker vs. psychotherapist
How we vet our therapists and counsellors
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