EMDR Therapy in Edmonton

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help people process and heal from distressing or overwhelming experiences. EMDR works differently from traditional talk therapy. Rather than only talking about what happened, EMDR helps your nervous system reprocess memories so they no longer feel as intense, intrusive, or disruptive.

Many people notice that memories begin to feel more distant, less emotionally charged, and easier to live with.

You do not need to relive or retell every detail for EMDR to be effective.

Illustration of brain processing trauma during EMDR therapy, trauma therapy and PTSD treatment in Edmonton and Alberta

How EMDR Therapy Works

EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based trauma therapy designed to help the brain safely process and resolve distressing memories. When a traumatic or overwhelming experience occurs, the brain may store the memory in a way that remains emotionally and physiologically active. This can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, hypervigilance, emotional reactivity, intrusive thoughts, or feeling stuck in patterns that no longer serve you.

EMDR therapy uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or alternating auditory tones, to activate the brain’s natural information processing system. This process helps the nervous system reprocess traumatic memories so they can be integrated in a more adaptive and less distressing way.

Rather than erasing memories, EMDR helps reduce the emotional intensity, physical stress response, and psychological impact associated with past experiences. Many clients notice that memories become more distant, less triggering, and easier to live with. Experiences that once caused significant distress may begin to feel neutral, manageable, or fully resolved.

EMDR therapy is widely recognized as an effective treatment for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, childhood trauma, and other trauma-related concerns. It works by addressing the root cause of distress stored in the nervous system, rather than focusing only on managing symptoms.

EMDR therapy is a structured and collaborative process. Your therapist will guide you through each phase of treatment, ensuring you feel safe, supported, and in control. Preparation and stabilization are essential parts of EMDR therapy, and trauma processing begins only when you feel ready.

EMDR therapy can be provided in person at our West Edmonton office.

What EMDR Can Help With

EMDR therapy is commonly used to support people experiencing:

  • Trauma and PTSD

  • Childhood trauma

  • Anxiety and panic

  • Intrusive memories

  • Emotional overwhelm

  • Attachment wounds

  • Medical trauma

  • Grief and loss

  • Performance anxiety

  • Negative core beliefs (“I’m not safe,” “I’m not good enough,” etc.)

EMDR helps the brain complete processing that was interrupted during overwhelming experiences.

Meet Abhishek Bardoloi

Abhishek Bardoloi, Registered Psychologist at A Thread of Clarity in Edmonton.

Abhishek Bardoloi, MC
Registered Psychologist

Abhishek provides EMDR therapy to help clients process trauma, reduce emotional distress, and regain a sense of safety and stability. His approach is calm, structured, and collaborative, creating a space where clients can explore difficult experiences without feeling overwhelmed or rushed.

Abhishek works with individuals experiencing trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and distressing life experiences that continue to affect their daily life. Using EMDR therapy, he helps clients reprocess memories so they no longer carry the same emotional intensity or nervous system activation. Many clients begin to feel more grounded, more in control, and less defined by what they’ve been through.

Ready to give EMDR a try?

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EMDR Therapy FAQ

  • How effective is EMDR therapy?

    EMDR is one of the most well-researched trauma therapies available. It is recommended by organizations such as the World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association for the treatment of trauma and PTSD. Many people experience meaningful relief from distressing memories, triggers, and emotional intensity through EMDR.

  • How is EMDR different from regular talk therapy?

    Traditional talk therapy focuses primarily on discussing thoughts, emotions, and patterns. EMDR works directly with how memories are stored in the brain and nervous system. Rather than only talking about experiences, EMDR helps the brain reprocess them so they feel less overwhelming and disruptive.

  • Do I have to talk about everything that happened?

    No. EMDR does not require you to share every detail of your experiences. The therapy focuses on how memories are stored and processed, and much of the work happens internally. Your therapist will guide you in a way that feels safe and manageable.

  • How many EMDR sessions will I need?

    The number of sessions varies depending on your history, goals, and readiness. Some people notice changes within a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term work. Early sessions focus on building safety, coping skills, and preparation before beginning reprocessing.

  • Is EMDR safe?

    Yes. EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy delivered by trained therapists. Your therapist will ensure you have the tools and support needed before beginning trauma processing. You remain in control of the pace at all times.

  • Can EMDR help with anxiety or panic?

    Yes. EMDR can be very effective for anxiety, panic, and distressing memories connected to past experiences. By helping the brain reprocess unresolved experiences, EMDR can reduce emotional reactivity and improve overall stability.

Check out our extended faq here