Evidence-based counselling approaches that we may draw upon. Counselling services based out of Coquitlam, BC.

EMDR & other Evidence-Based Therapeutic Modalities

Some of the counselling Approaches that we may draw upon:

Client-Centered Therapy is often the foundation of any treatment plan in counselling. It is a non judgmental approach that involves the client taking the reins by exploring whatever issues they bring to session. The belief is that each individual is the expert of their own life and should be treated as so. Regardless of the treatment goals, you will always be treated with respect and will be provided with a safe and compassionate environment for you to explore whatever it is that brings you to counselling. Empathy and confidentiality are the building blocks of any successful therapeutic relationship.

Adlerian Therapy explores the core beliefs that have become the lens through which you see the world. We all have a unique perspective that has been shaped by our early experiences. We cannot change what we are not aware of however so creating new insights and awareness by exploring the roots of these core beliefs can be helpful in changing the way you navigate the future.

Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) examines the connection between thoughts, feelings, and behaviours and helps to identify unhelpful patterns of behaviour or thinking styles. Different strategies and tools will be suggested in order to change the automatic thoughts and behaviours that may be holding you back from reaching the goals you hope to achieve. CBT can help you discover new ways to cope and solve problems, develop new skills, and change unwanted behaviours.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) is a therapeutic modality that is frequently used in counselling to improve coping with Borderline Personality Disorder, eating disorders, suicidal and self-harm ideations, substance use, depression, unhealthy relationship boundaries, and other mental health concerns or life stressors. DBT teaches mindfulness, distress tolerance, emotional regulation, and interpersonal effectiveness. 

Narrative Therapy focuses on retelling stories, events, and experiences to find alternative perspectives that are more realistic, fair, and empowering to the individual. It can be used for clients of all ages and helps to improve one's self-awareness, self-compassion, and self-acceptance. 

Internal Family Systems (IFS) is a gentle and effective approach to therapy that helps you explore the different “parts” of yourself—like the ones that protect you, carry pain, or feel stuck. Instead of trying to get rid of these parts, IFS helps you understand them with curiosity and compassion. Through this process, you can reconnect with your calm, confident core self and find more balance and healing from within.

Attachment-Based Therapy helps to identify and improve vulnerable and unhelpful patterns in relations, including communication, interpersonal interaction, boundaries, and conflict resolution. ABT is based on the reflection and healing from attachment experiences during childhood or adolescence. 

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based approach to counselling that has been shown to be very effective in treating a host of  issues including PTSD, anxiety, addiction, chronic pain, phobias, and depression. Most present dysfunction is driven by earlier unprocessed events. EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to process those events that may be stored or "locked" in the nervous system. Read more about EMDR below.

Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) helps you handle difficult thoughts and feelings in a new way—by accepting what you can’t control and committing to actions that align with your values. Instead of fighting your inner experience, ACT supports you in building a meaningful life through mindfulness, self-compassion, and personal growth.

Filial Therapy (FT) is an attachment-based approach that emphasizes the parent-child relationship as a way to alleviate child and/or family difficulties. With the guidance of the therapist, parents learn to conduct special play sessions with their children to help resolve emotional and behavioural difficulties and strengthen the parent-child attachment and/or family cohesion.

Gottman Method Couples Therapy is a research-based approach that helps couples build stronger, healthier relationships. It focuses on improving communication, deepening emotional connection, and managing conflict in a respectful, productive way. Using practical tools and exercises, couples learn how to strengthen their friendship, support each other’s goals, and rebuild trust where needed.

Emotionally Focused Couples Therapy (EFT) is an evidence-based, attachment focused theory that support partners to identify emotional patterns and responses that keep them stuck in cycles of conflict and withdrawal. Together, we process these patterns, create new ways of interacting, and strengthen the emotional connection at the heart of the relationship. Whatever you're navigating EFCT offers a compassionate path to healing together - one that focuses on shaping new, meaningful experiences that foster responsiveness, trust, and ultimately, a secure bond.

Sex therapy is a specialized form of talk therapy that helps individuals and couples address concerns related to intimacy, sexual function, desire, and relationship dynamics. It provides a safe, nonjudgmental space to explore emotional, psychological, and relational factors affecting one’s sexual wellbeing.

EMDR

EMDR Therapy in Coquitlam, BC

A proven approach to healing trauma, anxiety, and emotional distress

EMDR therapy to help clients process trauma and anxiety

What Is EMDR?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps people recover from trauma, anxiety, and other overwhelming life experiences. It uses bilateral stimulation—such as guided eye movements, tapping, or sounds—to help the brain reprocess difficult memories and reduce emotional distress.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR helps you move through painful experiences without having to talk about them in detail.

How EMDR Works

After a traumatic or distressing event, the brain can sometimes get “stuck,” making it hard to fully move on. EMDR helps your brain process these experiences properly, so they feel less intense and no longer trigger strong emotional reactions.

This process supports natural healing and often brings relief more quickly than other forms of therapy.

How EMDR Can Help

  • Reduces symptoms of trauma, anxiety, and depression

  • Helps you feel more in control, calm, and confident

  • Improves emotional regulation and self-esteem

  • Often leads to faster progress than traditional therapy

  • Effective for both recent and past traumatic experiences

Who May Find EMDR Effective?

EMDR is effective for adults, teens, and children facing:

  • Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

  • Anxiety, panic attacks, and phobias

  • Grief and complicated loss

  • Childhood abuse or neglect

  • Low self-worth or chronic shame

  • Performance anxiety (school, sports, public speaking)

Whether you’re dealing with a single event or long-term emotional pain, EMDR can offer lasting relief.

EMDR Therapy in Coquitlam: Start Your Healing Today

At our Coquitlam-based counselling practice, our EMDR-trained therapists provide a safe, supportive space for healing. We work at your pace and tailor the process to your needs.

Read more about the benefits of EMDR.

Interested in EMDR therapy? Contact us to book a free consultation or schedule your first session.