EMDR
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EMDR
Standard EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based psychotherapy approach designed to help people process and heal from traumatic or distressing life experiences. It works by helping the brain reprocess memories that feel “stuck,” so they become less emotionally overwhelming and more integrated.
Rather than requiring you to talk in detail about every experience, EMDR focuses on how memories are stored in the brain and body, helping reduce emotional distress and shift long-standing patterns.
Evidence-based trauma therapy
EMDR is recognized globally as an effective treatment for trauma and PTSD.
Memory reprocessing approach
Helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they no longer feel overwhelming.
Reduces emotional intensity
Clients often notice a decrease in triggers, anxiety, and emotional reactivity.
Does not require detailed retelling
You do not need to describe every detail of your trauma for the therapy to be effective.
In-person or virtual
Available from the downtown Edmonton office or through secure online sessions.
How It Works
A structured process that supports deep healing
Standard EMDR sessions are typically 50 minutes and follow a structured eight-phase protocol. The process begins with understanding your history and building emotional safety before moving into memory reprocessing at a pace that feels manageable for your nervous system.
Book an Appointment
Schedule a confidential consultation to explore whether EMDR is right for you.
Meet Our Specialist
We discuss your history, current concerns, and goals for therapy.
Create a Foundation of Safety
We focus on stabilization, coping skills, and building a strong foundation of safety.
Begin Therapy
We gently work through targeted memories to reduce distress and support long-term healing.
About Joanne
Joanne Lagasse is a Registered Clinical Social Worker (RCSW), with Masters degree in Social Work from the University of Calgary, a BSW from Dalhousie University, and a BA from the University of Alberta. She works with health-care professionals, military members and veterans, neurodivergent adults, and anyone determined to move through life’s harder chapters.
Joanne believes our struggles are usually rooted in what has happened to us — which is why she has built a deep specialization in EMDR, one of the most evidence-based approaches for trauma, PTSD and Complex PTSD, anxiety, mood, and substance use. She is a Level 3 practitioner of Deep Brain Reorienting and is informed by Internal Family Systems, CBT, DBT, and narrative approaches. Warm and non-judgmental, she meets you exactly where you are.
Joanne Lagassé, RCSW
Lagasse Counselling
Clinical Social Worker
Level 3 & S2 Trained
Advanced Trained
In-person in Edmonton & virtual
Virtual
Begin
Give yourself the time and space to move forward
If you’re wondering whether EMDR might be right for you, I’d be happy to answer your questions and help you decide on the next step.
faq's
A few of the things people ask before starting EMDR. Have another question? Reach out any time.
EMDR is commonly used to treat PTSD, Complex PTSD, trauma, anxiety, panic, grief, and distressing life experiences that continue to affect daily life.
No. EMDR does not require you to describe every detail of your experiences for the therapy to be effective.
The length of treatment varies depending on your history and goals. Some people notice changes within a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term work.
Yes. EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy that is done at a pace that prioritizes emotional safety and stabilization.
Yes. EMDR is available both in person in downtown Edmonton and through secure virtual sessions.