EMDR therapy in Scarborough In-Person | Online Across Ontario and Nova Scotia
For moments, memories, or patterns that still feel stuck, EMDR offers a path forward.
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a trauma-informed therapeutic approach that helps the brain process memories and experiences that remain emotionally charged. Rather than relying solely on talk therapy, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (things like eye movements, tapping, or tones) to support the brain in reprocessing stored information in a healthier way.
The goal isn’t to erase memories completely, but to reduce distress, build emotional resilience, and create new pathways for understanding and coping.
Understanding whether EMDR therapy is right for you
Sometimes old experiences still feel close to the surface. Maybe you get overwhelmed or shut down more easily than you’d like, or certain situations spark big reactions you don’t fully understand.
EMDR offers a gentle, structured way to work through those sticky, distressing moments so they lose their hold. It’s an evidence‑based approach that helps soften the emotional charge of past events and helps you feel more grounded and secure in the present.
At Thrive, our EMDR therapists work with children, teens, and adults. We adapt the process to suit your age, needs, and comfort level.
What EMDR therapy can help you with
EMDR therapy can be helpful for individuals experiencing:
Childhood or attachment-related wounds
Anxiety, panic, or chronic worry
Emotional overwhelm or shutdown
Relationship patterns that feel difficult to change
Intense shame or self-criticism
Nervous system dysregulation
Stress related to past experiences or ongoing challenges
Why people choose EMDR therapy
Many individuals and families choose EMDR when:
They want relief from symptoms that feel stuck or persistent
Strong emotions feel out of proportion to the situation
Certain memories continue to surface
They feel disconnected, overwhelmed, or alert to danger
They want a structured, trauma-informed approach
They are seeking deeper healing rather than temporary coping
EMDR therapy can help people feel more grounded, more connected to themselves, and more able to move forward with clarity and confidence.
What to expect in EMDR therapy
Every EMDR process begins with building safety and understanding your goals. Your EMDR therapist will explore your strengths, support systems, and the experiences that feel important to address. Early sessions focus on grounding and emotional regulation, ensuring you feel prepared and supported before beginning reprocessing.
EMDR sessions can be completed:
In person at our Scarborough clinic
Online for clients across Ontario and Nova Scotia
Virtual EMDR is highly effective and uses structured, well-supported methods to ensure safety and stability.
Connect with an EMDR therapist
If EMDR feels like something you would like to learn more about, we can walk you through the process, answer your questions, and help you decide what feels right.
Who we support
Our EMDR therapists work with:
children experiencing stress, fear, emotional sensitivity or moments that feel “too big” to manage
teens navigating anxiety, identity questions, relationships or school-related stress
adults moving through trauma, burnout or longstanding emotional patterns
individuals who feel stuck or notice that certain experiences still carry emotional weight
people who want a trauma-informed approach that goes beyond traditional talk therapy
You don’t need to name an experience as “trauma” to benefit from EMDR. If something feels heavy, confusing or overwhelming, EMDR may help.
EMDR therapy in Scarborough
Our Scarborough clinic provides a supportive and calm environment for EMDR therapy. Many clients appreciate having an in-person option where grounding tools and sensory supports can be incorporated as needed.
Online EMDR therapy across Ontario and Nova Scotia
We offer EMDR therapy online for clients across Ontario and Nova Scotia. This allows you to access trauma-informed support from home, work, or any private space where you feel comfortable.
Online EMDR is an excellent option for individuals who prefer virtual care or who have mobility, distance, or scheduling considerations.
Frequently asked questions
about EMDR therapy
What happens during an EMDR therapy session?
An EMDR session usually begins with grounding, checking in on your goals, and making sure you feel steady and supported. From there, your therapist may use bilateral stimulation—eye movements, tapping, or tones—to help your brain gently process memories or experiences that still feel charged. The pace is slow, intentional, and always guided by your comfort.Is EMDR therapy covered by OHIP?
No. EMDR isn’t covered by OHIP. In Scarborough, Ontario, and Nova Scotia, EMDR is offered through private practice. Some extended health plans may cover part of your sessions under psychotherapy or psychological services.How much does a session of EMDR cost?
Fees vary depending on the therapist’s training, the length of the session, and the specialized nature of trauma work. We’re transparent about pricing and will go over everything with you during your consultation so you know exactly what to expect.What is EMDR therapy best for?
EMDR is especially effective for experiences that still feel emotionally charged or unresolved. It’s commonly used for trauma, PTSD, childhood wounds, anxiety, panic, grief, negative self-beliefs, emotional overwhelm, and patterns that haven’t shifted through talk therapy alone.Who is EMDR not recommended for?
Some folks may need more emotional stability or grounding skills before beginning EMDR. If that’s the case, your therapist will focus on building safety and internal resources first. EMDR is always paced according to what feels manageable for you.How do I know if EMDR therapy is right for me?
You might benefit from EMDR if you notice intense emotional reactions, recurring memories, shutdown responses, anxiety, or feelings that don’t match the moment. EMDR can still help even if you’re unsure whether an experience “counts” as trauma.Is EMDR therapy available in Scarborough?
Yes. We offer EMDR sessions in person at our Scarborough clinic. Our therapists are trained in trauma-informed care and create a space that feels supportive and grounded.Do you offer EMDR therapy across Ontario and Nova Scotia?
Yes. We provide secure online EMDR therapy throughout Ontario and Nova Scotia using evidence-based virtual methods that support safety, connection, and effectiveness.Can EMDR help with anxiety or overwhelm?
Yes. EMDR can help reduce panic, chronic worry, emotional overwhelm, and freeze or shutdown responses—especially when those reactions trace back to earlier experiences or ongoing stress.How long does EMDR therapy take?
It depends on your history, goals, and readiness. Some people notice meaningful shifts within a few sessions, while others prefer a slower, more spacious process. Your therapist will always move at a pace that feels right for you.Is EMDR therapy safe for children and teens?
Yes. EMDR can be adapted for younger clients using developmentally appropriate approaches. Many children and teens benefit when they’re navigating stress, trauma, big feelings, or overwhelming experiences.What qualifications does an EMDR therapist have?
EMDR therapists complete EMDRIA-approved training or comparable certification. At Thrive Psychology, EMDR is offered by clinicians who integrate this method within a trauma-informed, evidence-based practice.
If you’re looking for support, we’re here to walk with you.
Whether you’re seeking EMDR therapy for yourself, your child, or your teen, or you’re looking for parent-focused support, we’ll meet you where you are and help you take the next step.