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BEFORE YOU REACH OUT

Frequently Asked Questions

Does EMDR really work over video?

Yes — and the research supports this. Multiple studies have confirmed that EMDR delivered via telehealth is as effective as in-person delivery. Many clients actually find virtual sessions easier: you're in your own space, which can support a sense of safety and grounding. The bilateral stimulation that's central to EMDR adapts well to video — I use eye movements, tapping, or audio tones depending on what works best for you.

How long will I need to be in therapy?

This varies depending on your history, goals, and how your nervous system responds to treatment. That said, EMDR is not open-ended therapy by design. Many clients experience meaningful reprocessing and stabilization within 3–6 months. I work with a clear therapeutic arc in mind: we begin with stabilization, move into reprocessing, and work toward integration and closure. My goal is to do good work with you — and then send you back to your life.

Do I have to talk about everything that happened in detail?

No. One of the things that makes EMDR distinct from traditional talk therapy is that you don't need to narrate the full story of your trauma. EMDR works with how your brain stored the experience — not just what happened. You'll need to identify a memory or image to work with, but we control the pace, and I will never push you toward more than you're ready for. Informed consent and your sense of safety are central to how I work.

What happens in a first session?

The first session is about history, context, and fit. We'll talk about what's brought you to therapy, what you've tried before, and what you're hoping to change. I'll also ask about your history and nervous system patterns so I can start to understand what your healing process might look like. We won't do EMDR reprocessing in session one — the early phase is about building safety and a shared understanding of your goals.

How often should I come?

For EMDR to be most effective, I recommend sessions at minimum every two weeks. Weekly sessions are ideal during active reprocessing phases. Spacing sessions too far apart can interrupt the integration process and slow momentum. If life circumstances make weekly sessions difficult, we'll find a rhythm that works — but consistency genuinely matters with this modality.

HOW THE PRACTICE WORKS

AC Counselling is structured around the specific demands of EMDR therapy,

which requires careful pacing, strong therapeutic attunement, and adequate integration between sessions. 

CONTACT ME

annikascounselling@gmail.com

778-200-7430

​​Located in Vancouver, British Columbia 

I acknowledge that I live and work on the unceded traditional lands of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations.

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