EMDR Therapy in Calgary
EMDR—Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing—is a structured, trauma-focused therapy that may help people process difficult experiences and memories that continue to feel distressing in the present.
At Solasta, EMDR is offered by psychologists who work with trauma, post-traumatic stress symptoms, childhood experiences, anxiety and panic connected to difficult events, grief, phobias, and motor-vehicle accident trauma. We offer in-person EMDR therapy in NW Calgary and virtual appointments across Alberta, when clinically appropriate.
EMDR-trained psychologists | EMDR Canada–certified clinical leadership | Free consultation | Direct billing available
Find an Available EMDR Therapist
Not sure who to choose? Our therapist-matching tool can show you psychologists who offer EMDR and are currently accepting new clients. Select “EMDR,” tell us a little about what you are looking for, and explore therapists who may be a good fit.
Already know your therapist?
You do not need to decide on your own whether EMDR is the right place to start. A psychologist will take time to understand your goals, current supports, and what feels manageable before recommending an approach or pace of therapy.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a structured psychotherapy approach often used in trauma-focused care. It is designed to help people work with memories, experiences, images, body sensations, or beliefs that continue to feel upsetting or disruptive in the present.
During EMDR, a psychologist may use bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or alternating sounds) while supporting you to focus on a selected memory or experience. The purpose is not to erase what happened. It is to help the memory become less emotionally overwhelming and more integrated into your life story.
EMDR does not require you to recount every detail of a difficult experience repeatedly. Your psychologist will work collaboratively with you, at a pace that feels manageable, and will discuss what you are comfortable sharing.
A note about fit – EMDR is not a one-size-fits-all treatment. A careful assessment helps determine whether EMDR, preparation and stabilization work, or another therapy approach is the best place to begin.
What Can EMDR Therapy Help With?
EMDR is commonly considered for trauma-related concerns, especially when difficult experiences continue to affect day-to-day life, relationships, mood, sleep, confidence, or a sense of safety. Depending on your history and goals, EMDR may be explored for:
- Trauma and post-traumatic stress symptoms
- Childhood experiences that continue to affect the present
- Distressing memories after a motor-vehicle accident
- Anxiety or panic connected to difficult past experiences
- Grief and loss
- Specific fears and phobias
- Depression where past experiences or negative self-beliefs are relevant
Having one of these concerns does not automatically mean EMDR is the right therapy or the right first step. Your psychologist will consider your current circumstances, safety, supports, symptoms, and preferences before recommending a plan.
Looking for support after a collision? Explore our Car Accident Counselling in Calgary services.
EMDR Therapy at Solasta Counselling
Solasta is a Calgary psychology practice offering therapy, assessment, and counselling services for children, teens, adults, couples, and families. EMDR is one of several evidence-informed approaches our psychologists may use when it fits a client’s needs and goals.
Our approach to EMDR emphasizes thoughtful assessment, consent, pacing, and a strong therapeutic relationship. You are not expected to “push through” overwhelming material or decide the course of treatment alone. Your psychologist will work with you to understand what feels most helpful and manageable.
In-person EMDR therapy in Calgary
In-person appointments are available at our NW Calgary office at 1716 16 Ave NW.
Virtual EMDR therapy across Alberta
Virtual appointments may be available to clients across Alberta when online care is appropriate for the person and the work involved.
Free consultation
A free introductory consultation is available if you would like to ask questions, discuss what you are looking for, or get help choosing a therapist.
Direct billing
Direct billing is available. Coverage depends on your individual extended-health plan, so we recommend confirming your benefits before your first appointment.
Appointment options
Your psychologist will discuss appointment frequency and length based on your needs, goals, and the pace of therapy. Extended appointments may be available when appropriate.
Our EMDR team
EMDR Expertise at Solasta
Solasta’s team includes psychologists who offer EMDR therapy for trauma-related concerns. Therapist availability changes over time, so use our matching tool to see clinicians who are currently accepting new clients and offer EMDR.
EMDR Clinical Leadership, Supervision, and Consultation
Dr. Gillian McKirdy, Psy.D., is Solasta’s Clinical Director and an EMDR Canada Certified Therapist. In addition to providing EMDR with current clients, she provides supervision and consultation within the practice. While she is not currently accepting new EMDR clients, her training and clinical leadership contribute to Solasta’s trauma-informed approach to care.
Meet Our EMDR Therapists in Calgary
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Fees and Insurance
EMDR therapy is offered within regular psychology appointments. EMDR is offered within regular psychology appointments. Fees start at $220, with the exact fee and appointment options confirmed before booking.
Direct billing is available, and many extended-health plans provide coverage for services delivered by registered psychologists. Coverage varies by plan and insurer. If you are unsure, our team can help you understand the practical next steps, and receipts are available for eligible claims.
Have a question about fees, benefits, or finding the right therapist?
FAQs
What is EMDR therapy used for?
EMDR is commonly used in trauma-focused care, particularly when distressing experiences or memories continue to affect the present. Depending on the individual and clinical assessment, it may be considered for post-traumatic stress symptoms, childhood trauma, anxiety connected to difficult experiences, grief, phobias, and motor-vehicle accident trauma.
Do I have to talk about every detail of what happened?
No. EMDR does not require you to repeatedly retell every detail of a difficult experience. Your psychologist will work with you collaboratively and will discuss what feels safe and manageable to share. You remain in control of the pace and can pause at any point.
What happens in the first EMDR appointment?
The first appointment usually focuses on understanding what has brought you to therapy, your goals, relevant history, current supports, and whether EMDR may be a good fit. Preparation and coping strategies may be an important part of the process before memory-focused work begins.
How long does EMDR therapy take?
The pace of EMDR therapy varies from person to person. It depends on factors such as your goals, the nature of what you are working through, current stressors, available supports, and how ready you feel for trauma-focused work. Your psychologist will discuss a plan that fits your needs rather than applying a fixed timeline.
Can EMDR be offered online in Alberta?
In some situations, EMDR-informed work can be offered virtually to clients in Alberta. Whether online therapy is appropriate depends on your goals, privacy, technology, current stability, and clinical assessment. Your psychologist can help determine the format that best supports your care.
Is EMDR therapy covered by insurance in Calgary?
Many extended-health plans cover therapy delivered by a registered psychologist, which can include EMDR when it is part of your treatment. Direct billing is available, but coverage varies by insurer and plan. We recommend confirming your benefits before your appointment.
How do I find an available EMDR therapist?
Use Solasta’s therapist-matching tool and select “EMDR” under “What Brings You Here.” The tool will show psychologists who offer EMDR and are currently accepting new clients based on your preferences.
Take the Next Step Toward EMDR Therapy
You do not need to have every answer before reaching out. Whether you are looking for support after a specific event, working through experiences that still affect you, or wondering whether EMDR might be a fit, Solasta can help you take the next step.
Our Calgary Office Space
Our thoughtfully designed counselling spaces are crafted to create a warm, welcoming environment where you can feel completely at ease.
