FAQs

What is REM?

REM stands for ‘rapid eye movement,’ and is typically associated with the deep state of sleep when we tend to dream.  REM is a tool we use in therapy to get the brain moving and thinking about things that bother us in a new way.  Since REM is a big part of what we do in trauma treatment, we decided to use it as part of our name.

What’s the difference between counselling and psychotherapy?

‘Counselling’ and ‘psychotherapy’ are often used interchangeably.  The act of psychotherapy is governed by several regulating bodies in Ontario, including the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers (OCSWSSW), so some Social Workers are Psychotherapists, as well.  The title of Counsellor, on the other hand, is unregulated, meaning anyone can call themselves a Counsellor regardless of training or qualifications.  So, when it comes to choosing a mental health professional, it should be noted that Psychotherapists are Counsellors, but not all Counsellors are Psychotherapists. 

What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy used to treat trauma. It was developed in the 1980’s in the U.S. and was first used with combat veterans with Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). It is known to be effective in treating stress symptoms such as nightmares, flashbacks, panic attacks, anxiety and phobias, depression, over-reactive anger, sleep disturbance, and more.  More information can be found on the EMDR International Association and the EMDR Canada websites.

How does EMDR Therapy work?

During an EMDR session, you are asked to think about distressing or traumatic memories while your therapist stimulates the brain through REM, which can be done as your eyes follow movement, or through use of audio or tactile devices.  EMDR is believed to be like a conscious version of REM sleep, which encourages the brain to reprocess painful memories in a safe environment.  The base goal of EMDR is to reduce feelings of upset caused by old, unresolved memories.  While different from traditional talk therapy, EMDR has been widely recognized as a valid mental health treatment option by regulating bodies around the world, including the American Psychological Association (APA) and the World Health Organization (WHO).   

Is EMDR Therapy new?

Yes and no.  Although EMDR Therapy was developed in the 1980’s, and although it’s been validated as a good mental health treatment option, it still hasn’t quite “caught on” in Canada yet.  Case in point; There were less than 1200 EMDR-trained therapists registered with the EMDR Canada directory in the entire country of 40 million people, in 2024.  Still, we believe this is changing, as we often receive calls from new clients stating that a fellow health professional had encouraged them to seek EMDR Therapy as part of treatment.

Are there side effects to EMDR Therapy?

Some clients may experience some “side effects” after EMDR sessions, such as headaches or fatigue, but these symptoms are temporary and are expected to subside. This type of therapy can be mentally and emotionally tiring, so we always encourage clients to take extra care of themselves while they participate in treatment.

How long does therapy take?

Therapy sessions are 50 minutes, and initial EMDR sessions typically go for 50 to 75 minutes, at most. We understand that participation in therapy can be a big emotional and financial investment.  While we really believe in the work we do, treatment time varies for each person.  For example, we’ve seen great success for some clients in under ten sessions.  However, depending on the complexity of issues and frequency of participation, other clients may be involved in therapy for a year, or longer.

Do you offer therapy for children?

We currently offer therapy for clients who are 16 and older.  However, we are continuing to expand our expertise in psychotherapy and EMDR practice, and may offer therapy for children in the future.