250 Sheppard Ave. W., Toronto, Ontario M2N 1N3
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Therapeutic Modalities

The team at EMDR & Trauma Therapy Centre is trained to support a variety of mental health conditions and concerns. We specialize in EMDR therapy and use a combination of other modalities to help you get the relief you need. Learn more below!

Brainspotting

Brainspotting is a trauma and attachment based model of therapy. It is a neurophysiological focused therapy that builds someone’s capacity and also allows for processing of trauma.

Clinical Hypnosis

Hypnotic language and hypnosis is helpful in the stabilization phase of trauma. It often is integrated with Ego State therapy. It is used to engage the unconscious mind to access and reinforce positive thoughts, emotions and behaviours. Engaging states if calm, rest and safety are important in the healing journey. Hypnosis and Ego State therapies also creates neuro pathways toward self compassion and ease.

Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive behavioral Therapy (CBT) is a form of psychotherapy that is focused on helping individuals identify and manage the underlying causes of their mental and emotional struggles. CBT is a highly effective treatment method used to reduce symptoms associated with a range of mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, panic attacks, phobias, eating disorders, and substance abuse. By examining the relationship between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours, CBT can help individuals gain insight into how their thoughts create their feelings and behaviours, thereby empowering them to make lasting changes in their lives.

Deep Brain Reorienting (DBR)

DBR is utilized with trauma. When we are overwhelmed by shocking stimuli for instance sound, smell or sight are muscles will create an orienting tension in response. This often occurs within the neck, forehead or around the eyes. This orienting tension occurs within the superior colliculus (SC) of the midbrain. The periaqueductal grapy (PAG) then engages a defensive response. By finding the orienting tension and working with the associated defensive response we can unlock the automatic responses that are held due to a history of trauma.

Ego State Psychotherapy

When we experience difficulties we often have an internal conflict. For instance, part of us wants to take a risk and try something new in life and another part of us is terrified. Ego State therapy allows us to get curious and work with the internal conflict, division or tension. It is similar to Internal Family Systems however it is different. The focus is on embracing all different aspects of yourself and working toward the potential and ideal self.

Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT)

Emotion Focused Therapy (EFT) is a powerful, evidence-based approach to counseling, focused on helping individuals recognize and process their emotions. By exploring underlying patterns of emotion, clients gain insight into their behavior and the connections between their thoughts, feelings, and actions. EFT is especially beneficial for those struggling with depression, anxiety, trauma, and relationship issues. Through this therapy, clients can learn to express and manage their emotions in a healthy way, resulting in improved mental health and overall wellbeing.

Eye Movement Desensitization & Reprocessing (EMDR)

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a type of therapy intended to help people who have had traumatic experiences in their lifetime. During EMDR, a therapist will take you through guided eye movements and other forms of bilateral stimulation (e.g., tapping or tones) while you recall the traumatic event or negative thoughts you are seeking support for. Recalling the events or emotions this way can help reduce the distress associated with them. It is used for a variety of mental health concerns, including PTSD, other traumas, anxiety, and depression. The goals of EMDR include reducing the intensity of symptoms, improving emotional regulation, and increasing self-esteem.

Click below to learn more about our EMDR for trauma therapy program.

Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy is based on the idea that the mind is made up of multiple sub-personalities or “parts”. Each of these parts has its own viewpoints, emotions, and characteristics. In IFS therapy, the therapist will help the client identify and understand each of the parts that make them whole. By deepening the relationship with each part, there is an opportunity to gain insight into the patterns and beliefs causing distress. IFS is used for a variety of concerns, including trauma, depression, anxiety, and interpersonal relationships. It can also be used for personal growth, self-understanding, and self-development. Start feeling more whole by understanding the “parts” that make you you!

Mindfulness-Based Therapy

Mindfulness-based therapy is a therapeutic approach that integrates mindfulness and cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). It aims to help individuals cultivate awareness and acceptance of their thoughts, emotions, and experiences. The goal of mindfulness-based therapy is to reduce the distress caused by thoughts, emotions and experiences to improve overall well-being. The exact approach will depend on your needs and therapist. However, you will be encouraged to engage in meditation and/or mindfulness practices. This may include breathing exercises, mindful movement, and body scans. As part of mindfulness-based therapy, you may be asked to work towards identifying and challenging negative thought patterns so you can develop positive coping skills. This modality is used for a variety of mental health concerns, including anxiety, stress, depression, and chronic pain. By creating an increased sense of connection to the self and others, you can experience a greater sense of purpose in life.

Safe & Sound Protocol (SSP)

Is an evidence based adjunct therapy that focuses on building internal safety. It is a tool designed to reset the nervous system. It is a listening, music intervention that can occur remotely through the guidance of a therapist. It is suitable for children, teens and adults. It can assist can there has been trauma, anxiety, sensory and processing differences to name a few.

Sensorimotor Psychotherapy

The values and principals of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy speak to our centre’s mission of working with people from the place of wholeness. That is working toward mind, body and spiritual wholeness. SP is a trauma and attachment based model. It includes somatic, emotional and cognitive processing. It is a tri phasic model of trauma. Allowing the body to experience safety, process the trauma and fully integrate a whole sense of self within the body and mind.

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