When to Seek Couples Therapy: Key Signs and Benefits
bring that spark back into your life. In this article, we will look for all the signs of when to seek couple therapy and its benefits.
Grigore Counselling & Associates
bring that spark back into your life. In this article, we will look for all the signs of when to seek couple therapy and its benefits.
Is EMDR therapy like hypnosis? It’s a common question, especially for those considering EMDR for trauma, anxiety, or stress. Both techniques involve altered states of awareness. Both can access deep emotional material. But EMDR and hypnosis are not the same.
Let’s explain the key differences, what EMDR actually involves, and why it’s often misunderstood.
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It’s an evidence-based treatment designed to help people process traumatic or distressing memories. It uses bilateral stimulation—typically guided eye movements—to help the brain “reprocess” unresolved emotions.
It’s highly structured, involves no suggestion or altered states, and keeps you in full control.
So, is EMDR therapy like hypnosis? Not really.
Hypnosis is a trance-like state of focused attention and increased suggestibility. In clinical hypnosis, a trained professional guides the client into a deeply relaxed state.
People often compare the experience of EMDR to hypnosis because both involve focused attention and a change in how the brain processes information.
But while they may feel similar on the surface, they are fundamentally different in structure, purpose, and effect.
Let’s answer directly: No, EMDR is not the same as hypnosis.
In EMDR, you remain fully alert. You can stop the session at any time. There’s no trance, no altered state. You are aware and in charge throughout the process.
In hypnosis, you enter a deeply relaxed, altered state of consciousness. The therapist often leads with verbal suggestions to shift behavior or perception.
EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—eye movements, tapping, or sounds—to help desensitize distressing memories. The focus is on past experiences and how they influence current triggers.
Hypnosis uses guided imagery and suggestion.
EMDR aims to reprocess trauma stored in the brain, making it feel less distressing and emotionally charged. It’s used to treat PTSD, anxiety, grief. In addition to mental health conditions.
Hypnosis often targets behavior change or symptom relief, sometimes without digging into root trauma.
Many people confuse EMDR with hypnosis because both are unfamiliar. You may sit quietly with your eyes moving. Furthermore, you may recall vivid memories. You may feel emotionally intense during or after sessions.
But that doesn’t make them the same.
EMDR is not suggestive. Your therapist does not implant thoughts. They guide you through structured steps based on what you experience. Not what they say!
You’ll be asked to recall a difficult memory while focusing on a form of bilateral stimulation—like your therapist’s fingers moving back and forth.
You stay alert. You’re encouraged to describe what you feel, think, or sense. You’re not under hypnosis.
You may experience shifts in emotions, sensations, or insights as your brain reprocesses the memory.
If you’re still asking is EMDR therapy like hypnosis, it’s because both experiences involve internal reflection. But EMDR is more like mindful processing, not a trance.
If you’re holding onto painful experiences that still affect your present, EMDR may help. It’s especially helpful if talk therapy hasn’t worked, or if you struggle to “let go” of the past.
Grigore Counselling offers in-person and virtual EMDR therapy in a trauma-informed environment. Still wondering is EMDR therapy like hypnosis? Schedule a consultation and we’ll walk you through how it works—no guesswork, no surprises.
If you’ve been hesitant to try EMDR or hypnosis because of myths or misconceptions, we hope this clears the air.
No. EMDR does not involve altered states, trance, or suggestibility. You remain fully alert during the process.
Some people describe a trance-like focus during EMDR, but you’re always aware and in control. It’s not the same as hypnosis.
EMDR is evidence-based and structured, with a strong safety profile when delivered by trained professionals.
No. You remain in control during EMDR. Nothing is suggested or implanted.
EMDR is specifically designed for trauma and is supported by major mental health organizations. It’s generally preferred over hypnosis for treating PTSD and related conditions.
What is EMDR therapy for? It’s a question many people ask when looking for trauma treatment or emotional healing. EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It’s a therapy method designed to help people recover from trauma, anxiety, and emotional distress. Unlike talk therapy, EMDR helps the brain process stuck memories so they no longer cause distress.
If you’re struggling with flashbacks, triggers, or past experiences that still affect you, EMDR may help.
What is EMDR therapy for? It’s for healing the emotional wounds left by painful memories. These may come from single incidents like accidents or ongoing events like childhood neglect or abuse. EMDR helps the brain reprocess these experiences. As a result, you gain relief from the emotional pain attached to them.
Grigore Counselling’s team uses EMDR therapy to help people who feel stuck. You might know logically that something is in the past—but your body still reacts like it’s happening now. That’s where EMDR comes in.
When people ask, what is EMDR therapy for, they often think it’s only for extreme trauma. That’s not the case.
EMDR is effective for both “big T” and “small t” trauma. A car crash, an assault, or losing a loved one—those are big T traumas. But EMDR is also used for smaller, repeated wounds like being bullied, feeling rejected, or growing up in a critical home. These “small” events can still deeply impact how you see yourself and the world.
If your past still haunts you, EMDR may be the right evidence-based approach.
Understanding what EMDR therapy is for means also understanding how it works.
In a session, your therapist helps you identify a distressing memory. You’ll focus on that memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation—such as moving your eyes back and forth. This process mimics REM sleep, the brain’s natural way of processing memories.
Over time, the memory becomes less painful. You still remember what happened, but it stops triggering the same emotional charge. That’s the healing power of EMDR.
People come to us with many different concerns. Here are common reasons they seek EMDR:
So again, what is EMDR therapy for? It’s for giving you back control over your emotions by healing the root cause.
Another key point when discussing what is EMDR therapy for is that it’s not just for trauma. It’s also helpful for:
EMDR doesn’t just treat symptoms. It works deeper. It helps you heal from what created the symptoms in the first place.
Clients at Grigore Counselling often choose EMDR when they feel talk therapy isn’t enough. You don’t need to talk in detail about what happened. You focus on the memory while the brain does the work of processing it. Many find this process faster and more effective than other types of therapy.
So, what is EMDR therapy for? It’s for anyone ready to heal, move forward, and feel less stuck in the past.
Grigore Counselling offers EMDR both in-person and virtually. Our therapists are trauma-informed and trained to guide you safely through the process. Whether you’re working through PTSD, childhood wounds, or emotional blocks, we’re here to support your journey.
If you’ve been wondering, what is EMDR therapy for, now you know: it’s for healing the unresolved pain that holds you back. Book your session today.
Yes. Even if the anxiety isn’t clearly trauma-related, EMDR can help resolve the emotional root behind it.
No. EMDR is used for depression, low self-esteem, grief, and more—not just PTSD.
A consultation with a trained therapist can determine if EMDR fits your needs and readiness.
Finding a therapist in Langley that speaks Hindi can transform your experience with mental health care. Language is about connection. So when you speak your native language in therapy, your emotions feel clearer, and trust builds faster.
Grigore Counselling offers you access to a therapist in Langley that speaks Hindi. Our team understands the unique emotional, cultural, and generational challenges faced by South Asian individuals and families.
When you speak in Hindi, you don’t need to translate your feelings. You communicate naturally, without struggling for the right words. A therapist that understands your tone, context, and cultural references.
Therapy depends on connection. Misunderstandings caused by language barriers can weaken progress. With a therapist that speaks Hindi, nothing gets lost. You feel heard, understood, and respected from the first session.
Grigore Counselling’s Hindi-speaking therapists support clients with:
These are common struggles, but how you experience them is shaped by culture. A therapist in Langley that speaks Hindi understands how family pressure, immigration, and cultural expectations influence your mental health. This insight allows for deeper, more effective therapy.
Many South Asian clients worry about stigma or feel guilty asking for help. Working with a therapist that speaks Hindi can help reduce that hesitation. You don’t have to explain cultural expectations or justify your emotions.
We understand the impact of generational differences, family hierarchy, and social norms. If you are facing parental pressure, burnout from responsibilities, or silent emotional pain, your Hindi-speaking therapist creates a safe, judgment-free space.
Our Langley office offers both in-person and online sessions. This makes it easy to start therapy wherever you feel most comfortable. Evening and weekend sessions are available.
Therapy with a therapist in Langley that speaks Hindi at Grigore Counselling is professional, accessible, and tailored to your life. Book an appointment here.
You can visit Grigore Counselling to book directly with a Hindi-speaking therapist in Langley. Both in-person and online options are available.
Yes. Your Hindi-speaking therapist understands South Asian cultural expectations and can help you work through those challenges without judgment.
Absolutely. All sessions are private and confidential. We provide a safe, respectful environment for healing.
Looking for affordable counselling in Langley? Grigore Counselling is thrilled to announce the grand opening of our Langley office—a safe, welcoming space for individuals, couples, and families seeking expert therapy without breaking the bank.
Our new location is now open and accepting clients! Book your session today and take advantage of our limited-time launch offer:
🎉 20% OFF for the first 20 clients with select clinicians
💬 Counselling rates starting as low as $100 per hour
If you’re new to therapy or looking to reconnect with support, our team in Langley is ready to help.
Opening April 1st, our new Langley office brings compassionate, skilled therapy closer to home. We believe mental health services should be accessible, affordable, and tailored to your needs.
Located conveniently in the heart of Langley, this new office is perfect for individuals from Walnut Grove, Willoughby, Fort Langley, and beyond. With evening and weekend appointments available, we make it easy to prioritize your mental wellness—on your schedule.
We’re known for our trauma-informed, evidence-based therapy. Our Langley team includes therapists trained in CBT, EMDR, somatic work, and more. Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, depression, relationship issues, grief, or trauma, we match you with the right clinician to support your goals.
We also offer online counselling, so you can continue sessions remotely if needed.
To celebrate our opening, the first 20 clients who book at the Langley office receive 20% off select clinicians. This offer is available for a limited time only—book early to secure your discounted rate.
Plus, our commitment to affordability means sessions start at just $100/hour, making us one of the most cost-accessible counselling options in Langley.
We’re ready to welcome you to our new home in Langley!
📍 Address and booking details available here.
Take the first step toward better mental health. Your story matters. Your healing matters. Let us help you move forward—with care, compassion, and clinical excellence.
Yes! Grigore Counselling now offers affordable therapy in Langley with rates starting at $100/hour—and the first 20 clients get 20% off select clinicians.
Our Langley therapists support clients with anxiety, depression, trauma, relationships, stress, grief, and more. We offer both individual and couples counselling.
Absolutely. While our Langley office is open for in-person therapy, we also offer online counselling for flexibility and convenience.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a well-known, evidence-based treatment for trauma and emotional distress. If you’re asking yourself, “how long does EMDR therapy take to work?”, you’re not alone. Many people want to know how soon they can expect results and how many sessions it takes to feel better.
For that, let’s comment on the timeline, key factors, and what to expect from EMDR therapy.
EMDR helps reprocess traumatic memories by using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping. This technique allows the brain to “digest” painful events that previously felt stuck. It doesn’t erase the memory, but it reduces its emotional charge.
But how long does EMDR therapy take to work? That depends on a few key factors.
There’s no single answer to how long does EMDR therapy take to work. Some people feel relief after just one or two sessions. Others need 8–12 sessions or more to work through multiple layers of trauma.
If you’re working with a certified EMDR therapist, your experience will be structured and goal-oriented. But the timeline varies depending on:
To better understand how long does EMDR therapy take to work, it helps to know what’s involved. EMDR therapy includes eight phases:
You won’t start the reprocessing part immediately. You and your therapist need to build trust and create emotional safety first. So, how long does EMDR therapy take to work if you’re just starting? For simple trauma, it may take as few as 6–8 sessions. For complex trauma, treatment might continue for several months.
There are many reasons why how long does EMDR therapy take to work is a personal question. Every person processes trauma differently. But a few key elements influence your therapy timeline:
If you’re working through a single traumatic event (like a car accident), EMDR can be very fast. People with complex trauma or childhood abuse usually need more time.
Some people come to therapy already using coping tools. Others may need to build emotional regulation skills first. That preparation phase can take a few sessions before reprocessing begins.
Weekly sessions are the standard. But some clients choose EMDR intensives, where they work for several hours over 1–3 days. In that case, how long does EMDR therapy take to work may be measured in days instead of weeks.
A skilled, EMDR-certified therapist will follow best practices. This helps make the process safer, smoother, and often more effective.
Sometimes, yes. Some clients report significant shifts after just one EMDR session—especially if they’re working on a specific, contained event. But feeling better right away doesn’t mean the work is complete.
That’s why answering how long does EMDR therapy take to work always comes with nuance. You may notice progress quickly, but sustainable healing usually takes consistency.
As you ask how long does EMDR therapy take to work, remember that the goal is lasting change—not just symptom relief. EMDR often reduces symptoms of:
But this is not a “quick fix.” Healing takes time, and it’s okay to go at your own pace.
You might feel emotionally drained after a session. That’s normal. Your brain is processing deeply rooted experiences.
Many clients now ask how long does EMDR therapy take to work when done online. The good news is that virtual EMDR is often just as effective. Grigore Counselling offers both in-person and virtual EMDR to meet your needs. Virtual therapy can help maintain consistency, which often supports faster outcomes.
To recap:
You’ll work with your therapist to decide what’s right for you.
We specialize in EMDR therapy for trauma, anxiety, and emotional overwhelm. Our certified therapists are here to guide your healing in a way that works for you!
If you’re ready to start, contact us to schedule your first consultation.
It can be. Many clients see results in under 12 sessions. But deeper trauma may require more time.
Sometimes. Especially for single-event trauma. But most clients benefit from multiple sessions for long-term results.
Not necessarily. Many clients find virtual sessions just as effective, especially with consistent scheduling.
That’s normal. EMDR is deep work. You may need time to process emotions between sessions.
Yes, when done with a trained therapist. You’ll always start with preparation and coping strategies.
How to find a therapist is about finding someone who truly gets you. We aim to connect you with the best therapists who can actually help you live your life better.
Finding the right therapy in Yellowknife requires a strong sense of trust, community, and shared understanding. For that, accessing trauma-informed care that truly respects these values is essential. That’s why Grigore Counselling is happy to have Lacey Poltorasky as our EMDR therapist, providing a deeply personal and culturally sensitive approach to healing. As part Tahltan, Lacey understands the importance of heritage and connection in the therapeutic process.
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy designed to help individuals process and heal from trauma. It works by using bilateral stimulation—such as guided eye movements or tapping—to help the brain reprocess distressing memories, reducing their emotional intensity.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR therapy in Yellowknife focuses on allowing the brain to heal naturally, much like how the body recovers from physical wounds. Over a short amount of time, painful memories lose their power, leading to relief from PTSD, anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related struggles.
The North has a unique history, culture, and way of life. Trauma healing here needs to honour that reality. With Lacey Poltorasky’s Indigenous background and experience in EMDR, therapy becomes a path toward deeper healing, rooted in respect for your experiences and identity.
In Yellowknife, where mental health resources can sometimes be limited, having access to a therapist who understands local realities and the deep impact of intergenerational trauma is invaluable.
Many who seek EMDR therapy in Yellowknife have experienced trauma, whether from personal loss, intergenerational trauma, childhood experiences, or high-stress environments. Some common reasons people turn to EMDR include:
When working with Lacey, EMDR therapy follows a structured approach to help you reprocess traumatic memories in a safe and supported way.
Healing from trauma is a personal journey, and the right therapist makes all the difference. Lacey Poltorasky, an EMDR therapist at Grigore Counselling, brings a unique combination of expertise and cultural awareness.
As part Tahltan, Lacey carries a deep respect for the Indigenous communities of the North. She understands that healing it’s about connection, trust, and reclaiming strength. Her compassionate and culturally informed approach makes EMDR therapy in Yellowknife both safe and effective.
For those living outside Yellowknife in more remote parts of the Northwest Territories, access to therapy can be challenging. That’s why Grigore Counselling offers virtual EMDR therapy, allowing you to receive specialized trauma treatment from anywhere.
Whether you’re in a small village or working in an isolated area, virtual EMDR sessions make therapy possible without the need for travel.
Trauma doesn’t have to define your future. With EMDR therapy in Yellowknife, you can break free from painful memories and build a stronger, healthier version of yourself.
Reach out today to book a session with Lacey Poltorasky. Let’s start your journey toward healing—together.
Yes, EMDR has been shown to help process trauma passed down through generations, especially in Indigenous communities where historical trauma plays a role in mental health.
Yes, Grigore Counselling offers virtual EMDR therapy to clients across the Northwest Territories, as well as from most provinces in Canada, ensuring that you can access treatment from anywhere.
If you struggle with past trauma, anxiety, or distressing memories that impact daily life, EMDR may be an effective solution. A consultation with Lacey can help determine if this therapy is the right fit.
Virtual EMDR therapy has become an effective solution for individuals seeking trauma-focused treatment from the comfort of their homes. Grigore Counselling insists on the importance of accessible, flexible care. That’s why we offer virtual EMDR therapy designed to provide the same level of support and effectiveness as in-person sessions. But how well does virtual EMDR therapy work, and what should you expect from the process?
Virtual EMDR therapy follows the same principles as traditional Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR). It is a structured approach that helps individuals process traumatic memories using bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones. The key difference is that these sessions occur via a secure online platform, allowing clients to engage in therapy remotely.
Virtual EMDR therapy enables clients to access professional help without the need for travel. This makes therapy more convenient and accessible, especially for those with busy schedules or limited access to in-person services.
Research and client experiences show that virtual EMDR therapy is just as effective as in-person sessions. The core elements of EMDR therapy—like bilateral stimulation, memory processing, and guided therapeutic support—can be effectively delivered online.
Our therapists use secure video platforms to guide clients through every stage of EMDR therapy. Whether it’s establishing safety, processing memories, or developing coping strategies, the therapeutic process remains consistent and supportive.
Many clients report feeling more comfortable in their own environment, which can enhance relaxation and openness during sessions. Virtual EMDR therapy allows you to choose a safe and private space, which is essential when confronting difficult emotions.
Virtual EMDR therapy offers several benefits, making it an ideal choice for many clients:
Starting virtual EMDR therapy is straightforward. We ensure that your virtual experience is as seamless and supportive as possible.
Virtual EMDR therapy can be an excellent option if you:
We are committed to creating a safe and effective virtual therapy experience. Our therapists are trained to adapt the EMDR process to meet your unique needs, ensuring you feel supported every step of the way.
To ensure the most effective virtual session, consider these preparation tips:
Grigore Counselling specializes in EMDR therapy, offering personalized care through both in-person and virtual formats. Our therapists are EMDR-certified, experienced, and committed to helping you process trauma in a safe, supportive environment.
We prioritize confidentiality, empathy, and tailored therapeutic approaches. Whether you’re navigating trauma, anxiety, or emotional distress, we are here to help you find clarity and healing through virtual EMDR therapy.
Taking the first step towards healing is significant. Virtual EMDR therapy at Grigore Counselling provides the flexibility, support, and effectiveness you need to process trauma and move forward. If you’re ready to begin or have questions, contact us today or schedule your initial consultation.
Yes, studies and client experiences confirm that virtual EMDR therapy is just as effective as in-person sessions. The key elements of EMDR are maintained, and clients often appreciate the comfort of their own environment.
You will need a stable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone, and a private, quiet space. Headphones can enhance privacy and audio quality.
If you value convenience, privacy, and flexibility, virtual EMDR therapy is a suitable option. A consultation with our team can help determine if it’s the right fit for your needs.
Session lengths vary based on individual needs and goals. On average, therapy can last several weeks to months, depending on the complexity of the trauma.
Your therapist will guide you through grounding techniques and coping strategies. If needed, adjustments can be made to ensure you feel safe and supported.