Grigore Counselling & Associates
Watch This Video If You Need Healing FAST
If you or a loved one requires the fastest and most effective form of treatment for anxiety, PTSD, depression, trauma, or self-sabotage (substances or behaviours), please schedule a complimentary consultation to determine if Total Immersion EMDR is right for you.
(We encourage you to explore this option even if “nothing has worked before,” because this is unlike anything you’ve ever tried before.)
Accelerated Results For...
Anxiety
Depression
Addictions
Relationship Stress
Trauma & PTSD
Anger Management
Self-Confidence
& Self-Esteem
Professional Stress
Eating Disorders
& Self-Image
Corporate Teams
Exam Stress
Families
Entertainment Industry
First Responders
& Military
Healthcare Staff
Total Immersion EMDR
Virtual Program
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Financing Available
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Work 1-1 With Robert (Virtual)
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Leading Edge Approach
Clinically Verified -
Fastest Results**
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No Homework
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No Medication Needed
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No Preparation Required
**Studies show standard EMDR to produce clinically significant results in 1/4 of the time compared to standard treatment options. 50+ cases produced clinically significant results in as little as 3 days with our Total Immersion EMDR process, indicating this model produces clinically significant results in 1/24 the time as traditional therapy. Studies support our findings by indicating complicated clinical issues can be resolved with an intensive format when combined with high and low intensity physical activity (Bongaerts, et. al., 2017; Mendez, et. al, 2018).
Total Immersion EMDR
BC Retreat
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Financing Available
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Work 1-1 With Robert (In-Person)
-
Leading Edge Approach
Clinically Verified -
Fastest Results**
-
No Homework
-
No Medication Needed
-
No Preparation Required
**Studies show standard EMDR to produce clinically significant results in 1/4 of the time compared to standard treatment options. 50+ cases produced clinically significant results in as little as 3 days with our Total Immersion EMDR process, indicating this model produces clinically significant results in 1/24 the time as traditional therapy. Studies support our findings by indicating complicated clinical issues can be resolved with an intensive format when combined with high and low intensity physical activity (Bongaerts, et. al., 2017; Mendez, et. al, 2018).
Total Immersion EMDR
INTernational Retreat
-
Financing Available
-
Work 1-1 With Robert (In-Person)
-
Leading Edge Approach
Clinically Verified -
Fastest Results**
-
No Homework
-
No Medication Needed
-
No Preparation Required
**Studies show standard EMDR to produce clinically significant results in 1/4 of the time compared to standard treatment options. 50+ cases produced clinically significant results in as little as 3 days with our Total Immersion EMDR process, indicating this model produces clinically significant results in 1/24 the time as traditional therapy. Studies support our findings by indicating complicated clinical issues can be resolved with an intensive format when combined with high and low intensity physical activity (Bongaerts, et. al., 2017; Mendez, et. al, 2018).
Public Domain Reviews & Recommendations
Our EMDR Intensives
Take Results To New Stratospheres
What is Total Immersion EMDR?
Total Immersion EMDR is an accelerated therapy model that condenses 3–5 months of traditional EMDR sessions into just 3–5 days.
This intensive approach is designed for individuals seeking rapid, transformative results, particularly those with tight schedules or pressing challenges like panic attacks, relationship crises, or high-stakes events.
Clinical Evidence:
Extensive peer-reviewed research and our clinical experience with over 70 patients confirm that Total Immersion EMDR accelerates healing without compromising effectiveness. This model is particularly effective for urgent situations requiring swift emotional and psychological relief.
Free yourself, faster. Total Immersion EMDR is the ultimate path to healing and reclaiming your life.
Why Total Immersion EMDR Works:
Efficiency and Impact: By focusing on consecutive, immersive sessions, clients experience faster resolution of distressing symptoms, behaviors, and thought patterns without needing months of weekly therapy.
Mechanism of Change: Through Bilateral Stimulation, the brain reprocesses maladaptive memories, neutralizing emotional “charges” and fostering adaptive beliefs like “I’m enough” or “I can handle this.” These reconsolidated memories enable lasting change.
Generalizing Effect: Many clients report benefits extending beyond specific memories, as the brain applies new learnings system-wide for holistic healing.
What Does Total Immersion EMDR Look Like?
Watch EMDR Demonstrations here (FULL Consent Provided by Actual Clients to share for educational purposes):
How Fast Can We Go?
Peer-Reviewed Evidence is mounting to scientifically support our clinical experience with 70+ patients, where we’ve successfully accelerated the exceptional results of EMDR through facilitating within an “intensive” approach / model.
Instead of conducting the “standard” approach to EMDR (50-80 minute sessions once per week or twice per month, our “intensive” approach compresses 3-5 months of EMDR therapy into two weeks or less (generally 3-5 days).
Popular amongst our clients with tight schedules and / or urgent pending issues or events (i.e. Panic attacks, relationship crisis, self-sabotage, career defining moments, weddings, negotiations, speeches, etc.), our intensive models will absolutely accelerate your healing journey – that’s a fact.
We've helped EVERYONE from Low-Income Single-Parents, to CEOs, to Top-Secret Celebrities...
Mental clarity and personal freedom could be a lot closer than you think.
Prince Harry, the former Duke of Sussex, told Oprah and Good Morning America he used EMDR to help with anxiety related to returning to the UK.
He originally heard of EMDR from his therapist.
Credit Agencja Fotograficzna Caro Alamy Stock Photo
Ashley Judd used EMDR to process intense grief from the passing of her mother.
Credit: Ron Sachs CNP MediaPunch Alamy Stock Photo
After dealing with a stalker who broke into her home in 2014, Sandra Bullock decided to try EMDR.
Credit Allstar Picture Library Ltd Alamy Stock Photo
Evan Rachel Wood was responsible for lighting the torch against Marilyn Manson for allegations of multiple counts of sexual abuse. The actress, model, and singer, told the world that she was going through EMDR therapy.
Credit Jennifer Graylock Alamy Stock Photo
Good Morning Britain Star, Kate Garraway, shared she sought EMDR therapy to help her cope with her husband’s year-long battle with COVID-19.
Credit Rich Gold Alamy Stock Photo
Michael Jackson’s daughter, Paris Jackson, went through EMDR treatment for PTSD, and suicidal thoughts triggered by social media.
Credit Jaguar Alamy Stock Photo
“Scary Spice”, Mel B shared she was overcoming self-destructive patterns of sex and substance abuse with the help of EMDR.
Mel B Credit Bill Belknap Alamy Stock Photo
Actress and Comedienne, Whitney Cummings shared her experience of successful EMDR therapy to help her overcome “impostor syndrome,” saying “EMDR saved my life.”
Credit Media Punch Alamy Stock Photo
Already a mental health advocate, Russel Brand shared his stage with Jameela Jamil to promote her experience of EMDR.
Credit Lenny Monge Photo Works Media Alamy Stock Photo
“This month, 6 years ago, I tried to take my own life. I’m so lucky that I survived, and went on to use EMDR to treat my severe PTSD.”
Credit Paul Smith Alamy Stock Photos
EMDR Fast Facts
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
What is the difference between EMDR and your EMDR Intensives?
Speed of results.
While our Standard EMDR is still very effective, we typically offer 1-2 hours once or twice per week for approximately 3-5 months.
For those who wish to further accelerate their results, we offer Total Immersion EMDR Retreats for Individuals and couples (available as virtual as well as in-person).
Our Total Immersion EMDR Retreat occurs over the course of 3-5 consecutive full days of 6 hours of leading-edge EMDR treatment.
Our Total Immersion EMDR Couples Retreat is a 9-day experience with both partners undergoing life-changing (and relationship-changing) results.
Not everyone will be a fit for Total Immersion EMDR Intensive or Retreat. Your safety is most important to us. In order to determine whether you might be a potential fit for our EMDR Intensives or Retreats, we require a specific conversation to discuss your options over a free consultation.
Results in 2 weeks or less sounds too good to be true, how can I be sure I will get results?
Most of our Total Immersion EMDR clients experience significant results in 3-5 days actually. And almost every one of them thought it sounded too good to be true at first.
Many of our clients had first undergone several years (and even decades) of talk therapy with little or no lasting results (some even feel worse due to feeling hopeless about their situation).
Consequently, we understand it can be hard to believe that you can get your dream results (or better) in two weeks or less.
While we appreciate every counselling discipline has its benefits, and the time isn’t “wasted,” the methods most are being exposed to are simply outdated or ineffective.
We’ve all been fed the illusion that therapy takes time, it’s hard, and that it requires a lot of work.
However, our 50+ clients who have undergone an EMDR Intensive or EMDR Retreat, can attest to near-immediate results they experienced after undergoing one of our EMDR Intensive or EMDR Retreat programs.
It’s very important to consider what we call “The Compound Effect.” Regular EMDR sessions are great (still faster than other treatments), however, that can still take several months, and in some cases years. When conducting an EMDR Intensive or EMDR Retreat, the individual spends longer periods of time in processing, without having to end the session and open it at a later date.
This approach is for those who would prefer to just get it all over and done with as fast as possible.
Don’t just take our word for it, the reviews and recommendations viewable in the public domain attest to our many satisfied clients.
What if I need more time?
In most cases, a single EMDR Intensive program was sufficient to produce clinically significant results for the client. However, should more time be needed, clients are permitted to purchase additional session time as needed (1 to 6 hours).
As a general practice we look to schedule 3-5 days with new Total Immersion EMDR clients, often completing before the end of the 5th day.
What if I don't need all the time provided?
This would indicate tremendous success. In fact, our EMDR experts are working hard for this goal. If we can get you incredible results in less time, then why would we prolong your suffering?
We want you to get to the other side of your issue(s) as fast as possible.
If you should complete your treatment in less time than scheduled, your invoice will also reflect the fewer treatment hours.
Please note that there are some fees that cannot be refunded due to potential travel and accommodation expenses. It is important to discuss this with your therapist during your consultation.
What if I can't finish the entire intensive EMDR treatment program all at once?
This would be a rare occurrence, but this concern is fairly common. Firstly, you’ve never done this before (even if you’ve tried EMDR before, Total Immersion EMDR is a unique experience).
We do our best to ensure your safety at all times, and if that means stopping or delaying the completion of your EMDR intensive treatment program, we will do so.
We will address this on a case-by-case basis to determine what the best course of action will be that is mutually respectful.
However, your invoice will reflect an adjustment to account for the fewer treatment hours.
When you’re ready to continue, we will resume accordingly to ensure your safety.
What do EMDR intensives and retreats look like?
Like EMDR strapped on a rocket ship.
Essentially, what occurs is an accelerated version of an already accelerated process of healing.
In general terms, you can expect four main phases:
- Foundations
- Processing
- Integration
- Continued Growth
All of our EMDR Intensive Programs and Retreats are conducted in either 3-hour or 6-hour session blocks. Breaks are taken as needed, including a lunch hour taken in the middle of any 6-hour session.
Where are the Total Immersion EMDR Retreats conducted?
Our Total Immersion EMDR Retreats (both individual and couples) can be conducted in a number of convenient locations throughout British Columbia, such as: Victoria, the Greater Vancouver Area (i.e. Vancouver, Richmond, Coquitlam, Surrey, Langley, Maple Ridge), and Kelowna; as well as internationally (please email info@grigorecounselling.com if you are interested in conducting an internationally based Total Immersion EMDR Retreat).
How does Total Immersion EMDR work?
Total Immersion EMDR works similarly to EMDR, just faster.
Our brain absorbs millions of pieces of stimuli every second, and according to the Adaptive Information Processing theory (what EMDR is based upon), it uses that information to constantly adapt and grow. When the brain determines information is no longer relevant, it is updated and stored differently.
Trauma and highly distressing negative experiences are locked in the brain and nervous system as “critically important,” and everything that made those moments up become triggers to “help” the organism increase its chances of survival (which is why being triggered can feel like your brain has become hijacked and responses to “otherwise mundane” situations can seem so extreme at times).
During EMDR therapy, the process of bilateral stimulation taxes, then relaxes the brain’s attention to the critical importance of the stimuli associated with the events, and allows the nervous system to calm down. When the nervous system’s response is relaxed, the brain naturally comes to the realization that the information it was responding to so strongly is now outdated information from the past, and it can now update those events with current knowledge. It then stores the updated information as “factual events” (no longer critically important because the nervous system isn’t reacting negatively to it in the present moment, therefore it is no longer relevant for survival).
The process thereby involves activating the nervous system (recalling negative memories), then taxing the Working Memory, then reconsolidation.
Total Immersion EMDR compresses the above process into 3-5 days instead of 3-5 months.
How will I know EMDR works for me? What type of results can I expect with an EMDR Intensive or Retreat?
After successful treatment, most clients report a complete elimination of the issue(s) they entered treatment for help with (this is dependent upon therapeutic goals of course). For example:
- No longer experiencing anxiety or panic during situations that would have otherwise triggered the individual had they not undergone EMDR treatment
- No longer feeling the urge to compulsively engage in unwanted behaviours or self-sabotaging behaviours
- Feeling energized, motivated, and hopeful for the future when before they were experiencing symptoms of depression, burnout, or boredom
- A calm nervous system, peaceful thoughts, and personal control; re-ignited passion; mental clarity; feeling present and grounded; mastery over your mind; increased productivity; increased capacity for intimacy, and enhanced communication skills; and more.
Having the right EMDR therapist can often be a differentiating factor. While EMDR is based upon a standard protocol, knowing how and when to deviate from that protocol in the best interest of the client, separates those who are simply “trained in EMDR,” from those with advanced knowledge and wisdom.
Robert Grigore MCP, RCC has spent years perfecting his Total Immersion EMDR process, and thus there is no other program like it.
Most clients experience such dramatic results by the end of the treatment program that they are amazed and can hardly believe it.
Other changes are so natural and subtle that individuals only realize they’ve occurred after otherwise triggering situations are successfully handled, or close friends or family members point out the changes they are surprised to be observing (sometimes clients will text or email totally elated and want to share their breakthroughs…and we love it every time).
The important thing to remember is EMDR is as much a physical process as it is an emotional and psychological process (and for some a spiritual one as well). It is impossible to refute that when looking left the right hemisphere of the brain is activated, and vice versa (same with body taps). EMDR’s effectiveness is as real as gravity.
You can expect clinically significant results.
Are there side effects of Total Immersion EMDR / EMDR Intensives?
EMDR therapy facilitates rapid psychological processing, which can sometimes lead to temporary side effects lasting up to three days post-session. Common physical symptoms include headaches, stomach aches, fatigue, vivid dreams, and recalling forgotten memories. These are natural results of the brain’s neuroplasticity as it reconsolidates new information.
On the positive side, many clients report transformative outcomes, such as feeling calm in previously triggering situations, managing stress with confidence, and advocating for themselves effectively. These positive shifts are the intended goal of EMDR therapy, reflecting meaningful and lasting change.
What is the difference between a Psychiatrist, Psychologist, Psychotherapist, Clinical Counsellor, Social Worker?
It’s confusing isn’t it? Let’s bring some clarity here.
Psychiatrists are medical doctors (MD’s) with a focus on mental health. They can formally diagnose and prescribe medications.
Psychologists are “doctors of psychology” but are not medical doctors. They have a PhD. They are allowed to diagnose mental health conditions, conduct psychological assessments, but cannot prescribe medications.
Psychotherapists and Clinical Counsellors are interchangeable designations where each province will have certain protected rights to use a particular designation. For example, in British Columbia, we are called either Registered Clinical Counsellors or Certified Clinical Counsellors; in Ontario the term used is Registered Psychotherapist. Counsellors/Psychotherapists (whichever term is used) generally have a MA level degree, are able to conduct psychological /counselling services but are not able to formally diagnose, assess, or prescribe medication.
Social Workers are able to conduct counselling sessions and are governed by the College of Social Workers. They may also belong to other professional associations and conduct therapy/counselling/psychotherapy within those guidelines.
Social workers most often have a MA level degree, and like Clinical Counsellors/Psychotherapists, cannot formally diagnose, assess, or prescribe medication.
Hope that helps!
Can I be on medication while undergoing EMDR / EMDR Intensives?
Yes absolutely. While medication is not necessary for successful EMDR, we understand some individuals may enter treatment already taking prescribed medication. We believe medication taken for the correct reason has its advantages, and we want what’s best for our clients. With that said, it is important to understand that work conducted while on medication will influence results due to state-specific-learning. This means that new neurological connections are made which include those caused by the medication.
Often the positive effects of successful EMDR treatment propel individuals to discuss their options with their doctor for reducing or eliminating medication. Should this occur, some clients would need to return to re-evaluate previous work with their therapist to ensure results will be maintained.
It is possible to notice with the absence of medication a very slight increase of distress associated with previous work, but often this can be corrected with minimal session time.
Will insurance cover my EMDR Intensive?
Possibly.
Some insurance carriers and extended benefit programs simply provide a reimbursement as a large sum payment.
However, some have limits as to how much can be covered “per session.” Over the years we have discovered some creative methods for encouraging the acceptance of intensive sessions by insurance companies.
It’s important to check with your insurance carrier to determine if they cover “Registered Clinical Counselling,” “Clinical Counselling,” “Counselling,” “Mental Health Counselling,” “Psychotherapy,” “Psychological Services.”
Some carriers only cover services from Psychologists, Psychiatrists, or Social Workers. Others accept Registered Clinical Counsellors (which is our most common designation).
If you determine your carrier will accept our services in full or in part, you are required to pay in full for our services and then seek reimbursement from your insurance carrier.
If you find that your insurance carrier or extended benefits program does not cover any portion of the investment, you may check with your accountant to determine if the investment could be considered as a tax-write off for business purposes.
Finally, all counselling services in Canada are now exempt from charging GST, and are considered a health expense by the Canadian government, and thus can be claimed during tax filing.
What is the fee for Total Immersion EMDR?
Because of the tailored nature of Total Immersion EMDR Retreats, it is difficult to provide a clear answer here.
Total Immersion EMDR services conducted virtually are simply the clinician’s rate multiplied by the number of treatment hours completed.
However, in-person Total Immersion EMDR Retreats require additional fees for travel, accommodation, office rental.
We therefore recommend inquiring as to pricing during your free consultation.
How do I choose whether to undergo Total Immersion EMDR virtually or in-person?
One thing to consider is where the clinician is licensed to provide services. At the moment, the location of services is tied to where the client is located physically during the session. Therefore, as long as the clinician is licensed where you intend to undergo the treatment, then virtual is an option, otherwise, you may be required to travel.
Virtual sessions and in-person sessions have comparable effectiveness ratings, with some key differences.
Many clients prefer virtual because it allows them to meet in the comfort of their home or office, where they feel more able to reach a new level of authenticity by not needing to get “dressed up for the world.” Furthermore, not needing to account for travel and accommodations, was greatly appreciated by most of our clients who have busy schedules.
Of course, there are many reasons why someone might choose to undergo our Total Immersion EMDR Intensive Retreat in-person. Your therapist has the increased ability to provide in-person interventions that may require (appropriate) touch, or the ability to see how your entire body is responding to treatment. In-person Total Immersion EMDR Intensives and Retreats allow you and your therapist to physically share a space, which can have profound impacts on attachment and healing that are simply different than with virtual offerings.
While our Total Immersion EMDR Couples Retreat is possible to be conducted virtually, it may be more beneficial for your therapist to watch your subtle (or not so subtle) interactions.
Ultimately, whether you choose to undergo one of our virtual or in-person EMDR Intensive or Retreat programs is entirely up to you. We can make some suggestions as to what might work specifically for you during a free consultation. Either way, you will be astounded at the results you experience.
Do you offer financing options?
Yes, through our partnership with Humm, we offer multiple financing options to assist clients with accessing the treatment they need while removing the financial barrier that might exist for some.
If you are interested in discovering if you qualify for financing, please speak with us during your free consultation.
Does receiving a quote for financing affect my credit score?
It depends on the amount you are looking to finance. Humm has informed us that anything under $17,000 is a soft pull, and anything over this amount will be a hard pull on your credit (i.e. it will appear on your credit report).
Is there any penalty to paying off a financed program?
It is possible to pay off a financed program early, with no penalties.
Free Ebook on EMDR
- Dive deeper into EMDR’s 8-Phase Standard Protocol
- Learn neurology of trauma and mental health distress
- EMDR case studies and testimonials
- How to find the best EMDR therapist and what to ask them!
