EMDR therapy for trauma, PTSD, and complex PTSD

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that can help you process traumatic experiences that continue to affect your emotions, body, and sense of safety. It works by supporting your brain’s natural ability to reprocess distressing memories so they lose their emotional intensity and feel more firmly in the past. Over time, this can reduce symptoms such as anxiety, intrusive memories, and emotional overwhelm, allowing you to feel more grounded and resilient.

Location: 620 View St., Suite 520 (downtown Victoria) • Online: Secure video across British Columbia.

Who EMDR helps

  • Single-incident trauma (accidents, assaults, medical events)
  • Complex trauma and attachment wounds
  • Intrusive memories, nightmares, startle responses, and hypervigilance
  • Shutdown, numbness, or feeling “not here” (freeze)
  • Burnout with trauma features (overdrive, collapse, or both)

How we work

We start with stabilization. When you're ready, we'll reprocess memories in small, manageable pieces (titration), staying within your window of tolerance.

Session options: 50-minute sessions, or 90-minute extended sessions when a longer window feels helpful for EMDR work.

FAQs

  • Is EMDR safe?
    Yes. I don't rush into reprocessing. We build resourcing and containment first, and we move at a speed your nervous system can handle. If something feels too much, we slow down, stabilize, and adjust.
  • Do you offer intensive/longer sessions?
    Yes. I offer 90-minute sessions if you'd like more time for preparation, reprocessing, and integration in a single appointment. We'll decide together whether longer sessions are a good fit for you.
  • Can we meet online?
    Yes. Many people find online EMDR works well, especially when you can be in a familiar space. We'll make sure you have a setup that feels private and supportive.
  • Do you combine EMDR with other approaches?
    Often, yes. I frequently weave in somatic regulation, parts/attachment awareness, and CBT/DBT skills so you have practical tools alongside the deeper processing work. The goal is integration.

Service area

I work with clients throughout Greater Victoria (Victoria, Saanich, Oak Bay, Esquimalt, Langford, Colwood, and View Royal). Sessions are available in-person at my downtown office or online throughout British Columbia.