EMDR Therapy in Toronto and Across Ontario
EMDR is an evidence-based therapy approach, a modality in the same family as CBT, DBT and ACT. Offered by secure video across Ontario with Christina Abounassar, RSW.
Free 15-minute call · No pressure
What is EMDR therapy?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a therapy approach (a modality), much like CBT, DBT or ACT, rather than a diagnosis or a condition. It is a structured therapy that helps your brain process memories that feel stuck, so they lose their charge and feel more like something that happened than something that is happening.
You stay awake, aware and in control throughout. EMDR is not hypnosis, and it does not erase memories. You do not have to describe what happened in detail for it to work.
What can EMDR help with?
- Post-traumatic stress and trauma-related symptoms
- Single events such as accidents, assaults, medical emergencies or sudden losses
- Long-standing experiences such as childhood trauma or difficult relationships
- Memories that still trigger strong reactions, such as panic, shame or anger
- Anxiety and phobias linked to past experiences
EMDR has its strongest research support for post-traumatic stress. It is recognized in major guidelines, including the World Health Organization's, as a recommended treatment for PTSD in adults.
What happens in EMDR therapy
- History and planning: we map what brought you in and which memories seem to feed today's symptoms. You share only what you are ready to.
- Preparation: we build grounding skills and ways to pause before any memory work starts.
- Choosing a target: we pick a memory and notice the image, the belief attached to it and what you feel in your body.
- Processing: short sets of eye movements, taps or tones while you notice what comes up. Between sets, you share a sentence or two.
- Closing safely: every session ends with you grounded and back in the present.
- Re-evaluating: next session, we check what held and what comes next.
How many sessions you need varies widely. A single-event trauma may shift in a handful of sessions after preparation, while longer-standing trauma usually takes more time. We review progress together, and you are never locked into a set number.
EMDR online: does it work?
Yes, EMDR can be done by secure video. Bilateral stimulation is guided on screen or through self-tapping, and you work from a private, comfortable space. Research on online EMDR is newer and smaller than for in person EMDR, so we talk honestly about whether it fits you and make a safety plan before processing begins. You need to be physically in Ontario during your session.
How to choose an EMDR therapist in Ontario
- Check that they are regulated in Ontario, for example as an RSW, RP or psychologist, and ask for their college registration.
- Ask about their EMDR training and their experience with your type of concern.
- Ask how they handle preparation and pacing, so you are not rushed.
- Ask whether EMDR will be combined with other approaches.
At The Heart of Healing, EMDR is offered by Christina Abounassar, MSW, RSW, a Registered Social Worker regulated in Ontario. Ask in your free consult whether EMDR fits your goals.
Keep reading
How do I get started with therapy?
Three simple steps. You set the pace.
Book a free 15-minute consult
Tell us what is going on and what you hope will change. We talk about fit, availability and fees. No pressure.
Meet your clinician
Your first session is by secure video. We listen, get clear on your goals and agree on a plan that suits you.
Build momentum
How often we meet is something we decide together. We check in on progress and adjust as you go.
Meet your therapist
Registered clinicians who believe real change starts with genuine connection.
Christina Abounassar
Founder · MSW, RSW · Registered Social Worker
Over 10 years in practice. Christina works with driven professionals, couples and individuals who are ready to do deeper work, in a space where you can feel heard without judgment. Registered with the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers.
Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR Therapy
How many EMDR sessions will I need?
It varies. A single-event trauma may shift in a handful of sessions after preparation, while complex or repeated trauma usually takes longer. We review progress together as we go.
Do I have to talk about my trauma in detail?
No. EMDR asks you to briefly hold parts of a memory in mind, but you do not need to narrate it aloud in detail for processing to happen. You share as much or as little as feels right.
Will I relive the trauma?
You will likely notice thoughts, images and feelings come up, and it can feel intense at times. Processing is paced, you stay grounded in the present, and you can pause at any time. Your clinician checks in throughout.
Is EMDR evidence-based?
Yes. EMDR has its strongest research support for post-traumatic stress, and major guidelines, including the World Health Organization's, recommend it for PTSD in adults. Evidence for other concerns is growing but less established.
Is online EMDR as effective as in person EMDR?
Early research is encouraging, but the evidence base for online EMDR is newer and smaller. Many people do this work entirely online and find it effective. We will talk honestly about fit during your consult.
Is EMDR covered by insurance in Ontario?
OHIP does not cover private therapy. EMDR sessions with a Registered Social Worker or Registered Psychotherapist are usually billed like other psychotherapy sessions, so check whether your extended health plan covers those providers. See our fees and insurance page.
Is EMDR right for everyone?
Not at every point in time. If you are in crisis, have limited stability right now, or are managing heavy substance use, we may build stability first. We will talk this through in your free consult.
What is EMDR and how does it work?
EMDR is a structured therapy approach that uses bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, while you briefly focus on a distressing memory. The aim is to help your brain process it so it feels less intense. It is recommended for post-traumatic stress, and we will talk about whether it suits you.
How do I check that a therapist is regulated in Ontario?
Search the public registers of the Ontario College of Social Workers and Social Service Workers for Registered Social Workers, or the College of Registered Psychotherapists of Ontario for Registered Psychotherapists. Both titles are legally protected in Ontario.
Ready to talk about EMDR?
Book a free 15-minute consult and tell us what is going on. We will talk about whether EMDR is a good fit for you.
If you are in crisis
- Call or text 9-8-8, the Suicide Crisis Helpline, 24/7 anywhere in Canada.
- Call 911 if you or someone else is in immediate danger.
- ConnexOntario: 1-866-531-2600 for mental health and addictions services.
- Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 or text 686868.
The Heart of Healing is not a crisis or emergency service.
(289) 819-3399 · theheartofhealingcs@gmail.com · 1015 Lakeshore Blvd E, Toronto, ON M4M 1B0
Virtual therapy for clients across Ontario, including Toronto, Mississauga, Brampton, Ottawa, Hamilton, London, Kitchener-Waterloo and Barrie.