How to Find an EMDR Therapist in Toronto
Even though there are tons of therapists in Toronto, finding one who is certified in EMDR can be challenging.
EMDR is a type of therapy that’s rising in popularity - and since it requires a special certification, the demand for EMDR therapists can make it hard to find one who’s available and the right fit for you.
Here at KMA Therapy, we’re here to equip you with the tools you need to succeed on your therapy journey. For over 15 years, we’ve helped our clients and community learn the ins-and-outs of the therapy process.
After reading this article, you’ll know the five things to consider when finding a therapist for EMDR.
5 Steps for Finding a Therapist for EMDR in Toronto
Follow these five steps to find a great EMDR therapist in Toronto.
1. Identify your reasons for starting EMDR
What sort of things do you want to explore in therapy?
Identify issues you want to explore during therapy, such as:
- Anxiety
- Trauma
- Depression
- Family dynamics
- Relationship issues
Therapists use EMDR for a variety of different issues, so just because they’re EMDR certified, it doesn’t mean they’ll be competent in the specific issues you’re facing.
Look for therapists who have an expertise in EMDR and a background in treating the challenges you’re experiencing.
2. Explore the different types of EMDR therapists
Different types of therapists (including social workers, psychotherapists, and psychologists) can perform EMDR as long as they’re certified.
Depending on your other needs, such as if you’re interested in starting medication or interested in doing talk therapy, you may choose to see a specific type of therapist.
Read What Type of Therapist Should I See? for a full breakdown of the types of therapists in Ontario.
3. Research and reach out
Now that you know what you’re looking for in a therapist, it’ll be easier to narrow down your search. (For example, instead of looking for an “EMDR therapist,” you’ll be looking for a “psychotherapist who is experienced in anxiety and uses EMDR as a modality.”)
Looking on websites like PsychologyToday is a great place to start your search.
Remember that to perform EMDR, a therapist must be certified by the EMDR International Association.
Once you find a few therapists you’re interested in, you can often find their email address or phone number listed.
Whether you prefer to email or call, these questions can help guide your initial conversation.
Questions to ask an EMDR therapist include:
- What are your areas of expertise?
- How long have you been certified in EMDR?
- How do you use EMDR in your therapy practice?
- What experience do you have supporting clients with issues like mine?
- Do you take insurance or offer sliding-scale fees?
- Do you offer online or in-person sessions?
Don’t feel like you need to commit to one therapist right away - it’s okay to “shop around” until you find the person who will work best for you.
4. Make sure they’re the right fit for you
EMDR requires a lot of trust on your part, so you want to make sure you’re seeing a therapist you feel comfortable with.
Our video on How to Know if Your Therapist is the Right Fit outlines criteria to look for when choosing a therapist.
Ultimately, you’ll know when your therapist is right for you when you feel comfortable around them, you don’t feel the need to censor yourself when speaking to them, and you feel like you’re making progress in your therapy sessions.
5. Prepare for your first therapy appointment
After you’ve booked your first appointment, you’re ready to go!
Still, it can be helpful to do a bit more preparation to set yourself up for success.
You may start EMDR in your first session, or you may wait until you’ve had some more time to build trust with your therapist.
Either way, consider:
- Your commute there and back - it can feel stressful to take public transit right after an EMDR session, so consider bringing headphones and setting up a podcast, audiobook, or music to listen to on the way home
- Parking options (if driving to your session)
- Where you’ll do therapy (if online)
- Bringing a water bottle or snacks
- Bringing a journal and pen
Next Steps for Beginning EMDR Therapy in Toronto
After reading this article, you know how to find a great EMDR therapist and prepare for your first appointment.
Here at KMA Therapy, we’re passionate about helping you find the best EMDR therapist for your needs - whether they’re at our practice or at one of the other great EMDR practices in Toronto.
KMA Therapist Liana Danese, MA, RP is trained in EMDR by EMDRIA and ready to help you tackle your concerns. Register today to learn more about working with Liana or book an appointment with Liana today.
You can also download our free Therapy 101 Guide to learn more about how therapy can help you.
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