What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured psychotherapy approach originally developed to help people process distressing memories and trauma. During EMDR, a therapist guides you to recall aspects of a distressing experience while you engage in bilateral stimulation, such as following the therapist's hand or a moving image with your eyes, alternating taps, or alternating sounds.
EMDR does not necessarily involve discussing every detail of a traumatic experience. Treatment typically includes preparation and stabilization before reprocessing begins, followed by structured processing and time to close the session safely.
EMDR is used with different types of trauma and distressing experiences, and some therapists also use it as part of treatment for anxiety, grief, phobias, and other concerns. The therapist's training and clinical experience matter, so check what types of concerns they regularly treat.
What to know about EMDR in Victoria
Online and in-person EMDR
EMDR can be adapted for online therapy. Bilateral stimulation can involve following a moving object on your screen, using alternating sounds through headphones, or tapping on your own. Research supports the use of online EMDR for PTSD and other trauma-related symptoms. If you're considering online EMDR, ask the therapist how they conduct reprocessing virtually and how they monitor and support you if you become overwhelmed during a session.
Some clients prefer in-person sessions because they offer a dedicated space for therapy. Neither option is inherently better. The choice comes down to which format you feel the most comfortable with and can consistently attend.
EMDR-trained vs. EMDR-certified
"EMDR trained" and "EMDR certified" aren't interchangeable terms. A therapist who has completed EMDR training has received education in the approach, while certification involves meeting additional requirements set by the relevant EMDR professional organization.
If a therapist describes themselves as EMDR-trained, you can ask which training program they completed and how extensively they use EMDR in their practice. If certification is important to you, ask whether they hold current EMDR certification and through which organization.
Credentials in British Columbia
Therapists offering EMDR in BC may come from different professional backgrounds and may have different credentials. Regulated therapy credentials in BC include Registered Psychologist, Registered Social Worker, and Registered Clinical Counsellor. BC is expected to regulate psychotherapy in 2027, but it hasn't taken effect yet. First Session shows each therapist's credentials, the regulatory body they belong to, and the provinces where they are authorized to see clients on their profiles.
Cost and insurance
EMDR session fees in Victoria vary depending on the therapist's professional credential, experience, session length, and practice. EMDR sessions may sometimes be scheduled for longer than a standard therapy appointment, which can affect the cost per session.
Extended health coverage generally depends on the therapist's credential (e.g., RP, RSW, RCC) rather than the fact that they provide EMDR. Check your benefits before booking to confirm which provider designations and services are covered. First Session profiles list session fees and professional credentials upfront, and therapists provide receipts for insurance claims.
How to choose an EMDR therapist in Victoria
1Ask about their EMDR training
EMDR training varies, and "EMDR" on a profile doesn't tell you exactly how much training a therapist has completed. If this matters to you, ask which training program they completed, whether they are certified, and how regularly they use EMDR in their practice.
2Match their experience to your concerns
EMDR is particularly well established for PTSD and trauma, but therapists may use it with other concerns as well. Look for someone who regularly works with the issue you want help with and ask how they incorporate EMDR into treatment.
For example, if you're seeking therapy for complex trauma, grief, anxiety, or a specific phobia, ask about the therapist's experience treating that concern rather than choosing someone based only on the word "EMDR."
3Look for a therapist who prioritizes pacing and preparation
EMDR generally includes preparation and stabilization before reprocessing, and the pace should match your circumstances and your ability to stay within a manageable level of distress. A good therapist should be willing to slow down, pause, or adjust the approach when needed. This can be particularly important if you're worried about becoming overwhelmed during trauma-focused therapy.
4Watch the intro video
Every First Session therapist profile includes a short introductory video. Use it to get an initial sense of how the therapist communicates, what they focus on, and whether their presence feels comfortable to you. You don't need to determine whether someone is the right therapist from a short video, but it can help you narrow down who you'd like to speak with.
5Use the free consultation to ask questions
All First Session therapists offer a free 15-minute consultation. Use it to ask what EMDR typically looks like with them, how they approach preparation and pacing, and whether they have experience with the concerns you want to address.
It's also a chance to assess the relationship itself. Do you feel listened to? Can you ask questions comfortably? Do they explain the process clearly? You should feel able to tell your therapist if you need to slow down, pause, or change direction.
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