Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing
(EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a gentle, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain process and release distressing memories. By using guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR supports the nervous system in resolving past experiences so they feel less overwhelming—allowing for greater clarity, calm, and emotional balance.
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Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a structured, evidence-based therapy designed to help the brain process and integrate distress or trauma. Once you experience overwhelm, it can sometimes become “stuck” in the nervous system, continuing to trigger emotional, mental or physical responses long after the event has passed.
Through guided eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation, EMDR helps the brain reprocess these memories in a safe and supported way. Over time, the symptoms become less intense, allowing you to feel more grounded and at ease.
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EMDR is for individuals who feel impacted by past, present or potential future distressing experiences—whether big or small—that influence how they feel, think, or respond in everyday life. It offers a gentle, structured way to process these experiences and support a greater sense of calm, clarity, and emotional balance.
It may be helpful for:
Anxiety, stress, panic or phobias
Trauma or distressing experiences
Emotional triggers or heightened reactions
Negative self-beliefs or low self-esteem
Feeling “stuck” in patterns, thoughts, or behaviours
A desire to feel more grounded, regulated, and in control
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EMDR helps the brain process emotions or experiences that may feel “stuck,” allowing emotional and physical responses to settle. By reprocessing memories, experiences, and emotions in a safe and supported way, EMDR can promote lasting relief and a greater sense of well-being.
Benefits may include:
Reduced intensity of distressing memories and triggers
Decreased anxiety, stress, or panic responses
Improved emotional regulation and resilience
Release of negative self-beliefs and increased self-confidence
Enhanced clarity, focus, and mental balance
Greater ability to move forward and feel present in daily life
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During EMDR, your therapist guides you to focus on a specific memory or experience while using gentle, bilateral stimulation—most commonly side-to-side eye movements, but sometimes taps or sounds. This stimulation helps your brain reprocess the memory, allowing it to shift from being emotionally overwhelming to something your mind can integrate more easily.
The process typically involves:
Identifying a target memory or distressing experience
Noticing the emotions, thoughts, and body sensations connected to it
Using guided bilateral stimulation to help the nervous system process the memory
Gradually noticing changes in how the memory feels, reducing distress and strengthening coping resources
Repeating the process with additional memories or experiences as needed
EMDR is collaborative, gentle, and paced according to your comfort, helping you feel supported while your mind and body work toward healing.
Reprocessing with Care: EMDR
Jennifer Rowe
Our EMDR Therapist
Jennifer is a Registered Provisional Psychologist with the College of Alberta Psychologists and obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Counselling Psychology from Yorkville University. For over 25 years, Jennifer has supported children, teens, adults, and families in finding safety, connection, and hope within the relationships that matter most. Her career began counselling children and mothers escaping domestic violence. Later, she committed two decades to working across two school divisions, advocating for students with complex needs, empowering their parents, supporting families to navigate the medical, school, and community systems, while strengthening the family connection.
She also has a special passion for helping children and spouses of First Responders. Drawing from her own 25 years as a Calgary Police spouse, she understands the unique stressors on families and the resilience this work culture demands. By supporting the First Responder’s family to address feelings of fear or helplessness, secondary trauma, and to strengthen communication, she is helping create a supportive home environment for the responder to recover and thrive.
Because we are all wired for connection, she takes a relational and collaborative approach to help strengthen relationships while supporting personal growth. She provides a warm, safe space to continue to heal and grow, and would be honored to walk alongside you during your personal journey.
Booking EMDR, Insurance Coverage and Direct Billing
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be booked as an individual treatment or integrated into therapy sessions with Jennifer. Before booking an EMDR session, a 15-minute meet-and-greet is required to ensure this approach aligns with your therapeutic goals. During this consultation, you will have the opportunity to connect with Jennifer, discuss your objectives, and learn more about what to expect during your EMDR session.
Many of the services offered at Maliya may be eligible for insurance coverage. Before booking, please review your practitioner’s bio (located at the bottom of their profile) to confirm their designation and if your insurance provider(s) are able to provide coverage.
Please note that we cannot guarantee coverage for any specific service, as eligibility depends on your individual insurance plan/policy. For this reason, we strongly recommend confirming your coverage details directly with your insurance provider prior to booking, including whether your service may be eligible under a Health Care Spending Account.
Once coverage has been confirmed, please contact us to determine whether we are able to direct bill your insurance company or if you will require an invoice receipt to submit for reimbursement.