Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
New Moon Psychotherapy offers Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy in Downtown Toronto with online EMDR available across Ontario.
EMDR Therapy in Toronto
A Trauma-Informed and Trauma-Focused Therapy to Help You Heal from the Past
You might feel like a part of you is still stuck in the moment something painful happened – no matter how much time has passed. Maybe you’ve tried talking about it, but it hasn’t made the memories feel less heavy.
At New Moon Psychotherapy in downtown Toronto, we offer EMDR therapy — a research-backed, trauma-focused treatment that helps your brain and body process distressing experiences so they no longer hold the same power.
Our team supports adults and youth healing from abuse, assault, neglect, betrayal, loss, and other forms of trauma — with understanding, compassion, and your well-being at the heart of every session.
EMDR Therapy | Downtown Toronto
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy originally developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Today, EMDR therapy is widely used to help people process trauma and heal from anxiety, depression, grief, chronic stress, sexual difficulties, relationship challenges, and other painful life experiences.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR isn’t about rehashing every detail. Instead, it helps your brain naturally process distressing memories, changing the way traumatic events are stored.
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation (BLS)—such as eye movements, gentle taps, or alternating sounds—to help the brain process and reintegrate distressing experiences. BLS is thought to mimic the natural eye movements that occur during REM (dream) sleep, a stage linked to emotional processing and memory integration. By engaging both sides of the brain, EMDR helps memories become stored in a less emotionally charged way—so you can remember what happened without feeling like you’re reliving it.
EMDR isn’t your average talk therapy.
EMDR Therapy | Downtown Toronto
Benefits of EMDR Therapy
- Feeling lighter and less reactive
- Reduced anxiety, panic, shame, or guilt
- Less intrusive thoughts, flashbacks, and nightmares
- Improved self-esteem and self-compassion
- Greater connection and safety in relationships
- A renewed sense of calm and control
EMDR Therapy | Downtown Toronto
What EMDR Therapy Can Help With
EMDR was originally designed to treat PTSD and trauma-related difficulties. Research now supports its effectiveness for:
- Depression and anxiety disorders
- Panic attacks & phobias
- Complicated grief
- Dissociative disorders
- Disturbing or intrusive thoughts
- Body image disturbances
- Chronic Pain
- Performance anxiety
- Addictions & stress-related concerns
- Difficulties regulating emotions
Imagine remembering without reliving.
Start your trauma recovery journey with EMDR today!
EMDR Therapy | Downtown Toronto
What to Expect in EMDR Therapy
EMDR is a structured eight-phase approach. Your therapist will always work at your pace and help ensure you feel ready at each step.
Phase 1:
History and Planning
An in-depth assessment of your experiences, symptoms, and goals.
Phase 2:
Preparation
Learning and practicing coping strategies and grounding techniques. Making space in your life for processing.
Phase 3:
Assessment
Identifying the memories and thoughts that will be processed.
Phase 4-7:
Processing
Engaging in bilateral stimulation to reprocess memories and strengthen positive beliefs.
Phase 8:
Integration and Evaluation
Reflecting on the impact of the therapy and any insights that have emerged.
Sessions are typically 50 minutes long, offered in person in downtown Toronto or virtually across Ontario.
We also offer EMDR in an intensive format, which condenses several weeks of therapy into one or more longer sessions. This format can be especially helpful if you want faster, more immersive progress.
If you’re interested in intensives, check out our EMDR Intensives Page.
Is EMDR Right for You?
- Have tried talk therapy but still feel stuck or triggered
- Struggle with distressing memories, body sensations, or emotional reactions
- Feel anxious, on edge, or numb
- Want to heal without rehashing every detail of the trauma
- Prefer a therapy approach that doesn’t rely on talking extensively or homework
While EMDR is highly effective for many people, it isn’t appropriate for everyone. Your therapist will assess suitability during your intake session. EMDR may not be recommended if you:
- Are in crisis or experiencing severe symptoms that require stabilization
- Have certain medical or neurological conditions
- Are taking medications or using substances that interfere with processing
- Are involved in, or anticipating, legal proceedings
Meet Our Team
Meet Our EMDR Trained Therapists
Our EMDR therapists combine rigorous training with compassionate, client-centred care. Each therapist has completed EMDRIA-approved training, meeting the highest standards of excellence and integrity in EMDR therapy. Beyond foundational training, our team engages in ongoing consultation and specialized coursework to maintain expertise in trauma, PTSD, intimacy, relationship, grief, chronic pain, and other areas of focus.
When you work with us, you’re matched with a therapist who not only has the skills to guide your healing but also understands your unique needs and goals.
Explore our therapist bios below or contact our intake team to be connected with the right therapist for you.
New Moon Psychotherapy
How To Get Started
Let this be your new beginning.
Therapy in Toronto’s Fashion District with secure online therapy sessions across Ontario.
EMDR Therapy in Toronto Offered Virtually or In-Person at Spadina and Queen
Healing from trauma takes courage and you don’t have to do it alone. Our trauma-informed EMDR therapists in downtown Toronto help you process painful experiences, reconnect with your body, and move forward with confidence and calm.