A Comprehensive, Integrative Approach at Wellspring Counselling
EMDR Therapy in Vancouver & Across BC
Wellspring offers EMDR therapy primarily online for people in Vancouver and across British Columbia. Your therapist will explore your goals, history and readiness to decide whether EMDR is appropriate. In-person EMDR appointments in Vancouver are by arrangement with select clinicians. Confirm the location and availability with the clinic before booking.
Compare counsellors who list EMDR, or ask Wellspring AI for matching help. A free 15-minute consultation is a chance to discuss fit and practical questions; it is separate from paid EMDR treatment. Review fees and insurance information before booking.
Founded in 2016, Wellspring is led by Alistair Gordon, MA, RCC, UBC Adjunct Professor, published author and developer of CorMorphosis™ Psychotherapy and Core Needs Therapy™.
Where appropriate, your clinician may draw on complementary approaches such as Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), IFS-informed work and CBT, depending on their training and your treatment plan.
The Power of EMDR Therapy
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a psychotherapy used for PTSD and distress connected with traumatic experiences. During memory processing, a trained therapist uses a structured method that may include guided eye movements, taps or sounds.
Assessment and preparation come before processing. Your clinician will explain the approach, discuss potential benefits and difficulties, and work with you on a suitable plan and pace.
Understanding EMDR Therapy
EMDR follows an eight-phase framework. The time spent in each phase varies with the person and their treatment needs:
- History and treatment planning: Discuss your concerns, experiences, goals and resources.
- Preparation: Learn about the process and practise ways to manage distress.
- Assessment: Identify the memory or experience to work on and the associated beliefs, emotions and sensations.
- Desensitization: Work with distress linked to the selected experience.
- Installation: Strengthen a more helpful belief connected with the experience.
- Body scan: Notice remaining physical responses.
- Closure: End the session with a plan for managing what comes up afterward.
- Reevaluation: Review changes and decide on the next focus.
Read EMDRIA’s guide to experiencing EMDR therapy for more detail.
Schedule Your Initial 15-Min EMDR Therapy Consultation Today
Integrative EMDR Therapy
At Wellspring Counselling, EMDR therapy is often integrated with complementary therapeutic approaches when clinically appropriate. While EMDR remains the primary method for processing traumatic and distressing experiences, integrating other evidence-based therapies can help deepen emotional insight, strengthen self-regulation, and support lasting change. The approaches below are not alternatives to EMDR, but supportive frameworks that may be thoughtfully woven into EMDR therapy based on each client’s needs, goals, and readiness.
Harnessing the Insight of Psychodynamic Therapy
Psychodynamic therapy helps to explore the unconscious mind, understanding how past experiences and unresolved conflicts shape behaviour. This complements EMDR’s trauma processing and EFT’s emotional exploration, offering a comprehensive understanding and healing framework.
Gestalt Therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS): Fostering Self-Awareness
Gestalt therapy and Internal Family Systems (IFS) enhance our integrative model by focusing on self-awareness and integrating thoughts, feelings, and actions. These methods support EMDR by assisting clients in fully experiencing and resolving unresolved issues, leading to a comprehensive emotional and psychological resolution.
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Structuring Change
Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy (CBT) provides a structured basis for understanding the interplay between thoughts, feelings, situations, and behaviours. Our neuroscience-based approach to CBT emphasizes subconscious information processing, facilitating profound changes beyond conceptual thinking. This complements the psychological change process initiated by EMDR Therapy.
Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) for Emotional Depth
Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT) focuses on the exploration and transformation of emotional experiences. It aids clients in changing maladaptive emotions and developing adaptive ones, fostering emotional healing. This approach complements EMDR Therapy, creating a powerful synergy for transformative healing.
Rewriting Emotional Memories with Implicit Memory Reconsolidation
The use of implicit memory reconsolidation from CorMorphosis™ Psychotherapy targets non-verbal, body-based memories underlying traumas usingexperiential techniques. Integrated with EMDR, this allows for profound changes in how traumatic memories are stored and experienced.
Book Your 15-Minute EMDR Therapy Consultation Today!
How EMDR Therapy Works in Trauma Recovery
Early appointments involve understanding your concerns, agreeing on goals and developing a treatment plan. Preparation may include practising ways to manage distress before beginning memory processing.
During processing, you may notice changes in images, emotions, beliefs or physical sensations connected with an experience. You can tell your therapist when you need to pause or adjust the pace.
There is no fixed number of sessions that applies to everyone. Treatment length depends on your history, needs and response to the work. Your clinician should discuss progress and review the plan with you.
Trauma Counselling Online
Online appointments can reduce travel and make it easier to attend from elsewhere in BC. Your clinician will assess whether online trauma work is suitable for your circumstances.
- Private space: Choose somewhere you can speak without interruptions.
- Practical setup: Ask about the video connection, device and any arrangements needed for the session.
- Location: Tell your clinician where you will physically be during each appointment so they can confirm eligibility.
- Preparation: Discuss what to do if the connection drops and what support you may need afterward.
Learn about online counselling at Wellspring, or contact us about session formats.
Benefits of Combining Online Counselling with EMDR Therapy
Online EMDR may be an option when your clinician considers the format appropriate. Ask how they adapt sessions and what you will need to participate.
- Plan together: Discuss your goals, readiness and preferences before deciding on the approach.
- Understand the process: Ask how the clinician guides the work online and how you can pause.
- Review the fit: Discuss what is helping and whether the format or treatment plan needs adjusting.
For an in-person appointment, confirm availability with the clinician at our Vancouver office before booking. Explore our EMDR counsellor profiles.
Why Wellspring Counselling Stands Apart?
At Wellspring Counselling, we pride ourselves on our commitment to providing personalized, compassionate care. Our team of experienced therapists brings a wealth of knowledge and empathy to each session, ensuring that you feel seen, heard, and understood. We understand that the journey to healing is deeply personal, and we are dedicated to supporting you every step of the way.
Comprehensive Care Tailored to You
We believe in the power of personalized therapy. Each client’s journey is unique, and our integrative approach is tailored to meet your specific needs and goals. Whether you are dealing with the effects of trauma, struggling with anxiety or depression, or seeking deeper personal growth, our therapists are here to provide the support and expertise you need to achieve lasting change.
A Collaborative Therapeutic Experience
EMDR therapy at Wellspring Counselling is a collaborative process grounded in safety, trust, and attunement. Your therapist works with you to move at a pace that feels manageable, ensuring you feel supported and in control throughout the process. Treatment is guided by your goals, experiences, and readiness, with careful attention to both emotional and nervous system regulation as meaningful change unfolds.
Expert and Compassionate Team
Our EMDR therapists are not only experts in their field but also compassionate individuals dedicated to your healing. They continuously update their skills with the latest advancements in therapy to provide you with the highest standard of care.
Tailored Healing Approaches
Understanding that each individual’s path to healing is unique, we offer personalised therapy plans. By blending EMDR with other therapeutic approaches, we ensure a holistic treatment experience designed to foster deep, lasting healing.
Our Commitment to Your Well-Being
Your well-being is our utmost priority. We strive to support you through each step of your healing journey, equipping you with effective tools and strategies to empower your life beyond our sessions.
Your First Step Towards Healing
Embarking on therapy can feel like a significant step, and choosing the right therapist and therapeutic approach is crucial. At Wellspring Counselling, we offer an initial consultation to discuss your needs, answer your questions, and outline how our integrative therapy approach can be tailored to support your healing journey. This initial step is designed to ensure you feel comfortable and confident in the path ahead.
Healing Is a Journey
We recognize that healing is not a linear process but a journey filled with challenges, breakthroughs, and moments of profound growth. Our therapists are here to guide and support you through each phase of this journey, offering empathy, expertise, and encouragement. Whether you are taking the first step toward healing from trauma, seeking to overcome anxiety or depression, or wishing to explore deeper aspects of personal growth, Wellspring Counselling is here to support you.
Looking Towards the Future
As you progress through therapy, you’ll develop new insights, strategies, and strengths that will support you in facing life’s challenges with resilience and confidence. Our goal is to not only address current issues but to equip you with the skills and understanding necessary for sustained emotional well-being and fulfillment.
Meet Our Team of Top-Rated Counsellors & Psychotherapists
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about EMDR Therapy
What is EMDR therapy and how does it work?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories using bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements or tapping. This reduces emotional intensity and shifts negative beliefs linked to past experiences.
Is EMDR therapy effective for trauma, anxiety, and depression?
EMDR is used to treat PTSD and trauma-related distress. For anxiety, depression or other concerns, your therapist will assess your history and current needs and explain whether EMDR is an appropriate option. Ask about the evidence, possible benefits and limitations for the concern you want to address.
How many EMDR therapy sessions will I need?
The number of sessions varies depending on your history, goals, and the complexity of the issues being addressed. Some people notice changes within a few sessions, while others benefit from a longer course of therapy.
Can EMDR therapy be done online in British Columbia or Canada?
Online EMDR sessions are available with participating Wellspring clinicians for clients in British Columbia and select other Canadian provinces and territories. Your clinician will assess whether the online format is appropriate for your situation. Confirm their provincial eligibility and the session format before booking. Learn more about online counselling at Wellspring.
What issues can EMDR therapy help with?
People often explore EMDR for distress connected with traumatic or difficult experiences. Your clinician will assess your concerns and goals before recommending a treatment plan. Review the EMDR counsellor profiles and ask about their experience with your particular concerns.
Will EMDR therapy force me to relive traumatic memories?
You do not usually need to describe every detail aloud. The work can still involve focusing on distressing images, emotions or body sensations. Your therapist will discuss preparation, explain how to pause and help you work at a suitable pace. Tell them about any concerns before starting.
Do I need a referral to start EMDR therapy?
No referral is required. You can book an EMDR therapy appointment directly with a trained and registered therapist.
Is EMDR suitable even if I don’t remember specific traumatic events?
Discuss this with your clinician before deciding on treatment. They will consider what you remember, your current difficulties and your goals, then explain whether EMDR or another approach may fit. You are not expected to provide certainty about memories you are unsure of.
Comprehensive Counselling Services
Services
We offer counselling, psychotherapy, and personal growth for various issues like anxiety, stress, anger, depression, relationships, trauma, parenting, and also personal development.
Those looking for assistance navigating the complexities of the mind and challenges in life and relationships can access experienced and skilled counsellors from anywhere in BC and select Canadian provinces.
Explore all services here:
Stress
Stress from your job, home or social life may be taking a toll on you and you might be finding it difficult to cope.
Anger
Anger is both a powerful motivating emotion, and one that can be destructive without proper redirection.
Anxiety
Anxiety comes in many forms, such as social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic, or even phobias.
Self Esteem
Our sense of self-worth can be impacted negatively because people internalize the responses they receive.
Depression
The good news is that a skilled and compassionate counsellor can help you to move toward a productive and meaningful way of life.
Relationships
In sessions, you will learn constructive communication skills that are necessary for respectful and flourishing relationships…
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Testimonials
Mr. Gordon is someone that captures the spirit and the heart of active engagement. He is empathic, genuine and incorporates action and creative problem solving into his practice. I have no hesitation in recommending Mr. Gordon as an effective career and personal counsellor.
I had no experience with therapy and was unsure of the whole process. Alistair made everything very accessible and unintimidating. It was clear that he puts quite a lot of effort and preparation into every session. I'm so glad that I decided to do this, and could not have asked for a better person to help me with this. I would highly recommend Alistair to anyone who has ever thought that they might benefit from talking to a professional.
I am a young professional which for a long time now, has struggled with anxiety, insecurity, and difficulty in finding effective life coping mechanisms. Alistair was referred to me by a friend and upon the first meeting, I found Alistair to be empathetic, compassionate and intuitive. I have now been seeing Alistair regularly for 6 months and through that time my anxiety has significantly decreased, I have found effective methods of dealing with stress, found support dealing with identity issues, as well as finding inner strength to get through a tough break up. Alistair again and again, went the extra mile -thank you Alistair for your candor, openness and a safe space to get support. Thank you for playing such a large role in keeping me healthy and positive.
I have been working with Alistair Gordon as my counsellor at Wellspring for almost 6 months now and cannot begin to tell you how far I have come with his help. I have tried working with other counsellors and therapists in the past but never really found one that clicked for me. I always felt judged, unsupported, and rushed at those appointments until I booked my first appointment with Wellspring and with Allistair. To anyone on the fence about booking an appointment or engaging in therapy: if you are willing to do the work, you couldn't ask for a better partner in your healing journey.
When I decided to find a counsellor, I tried to find someone that I could relate to, someone that is like-minded and down-to-earth and with Alistair I really found the right person. He uses an integrative approach, showed me techniques to relax and get aware of my emotions, and helped me see things in a new perspective. Of course this is an ongoing process but I enjoy meeting and working with Alistair every time. The downtown office is a very neutral place - not too intimate, not too clinical - which is helpful to overcome apprehension, especially the first couple of times. What I find remarkable is that Alistair almost always knows what I'm trying to say, even if I can't put it into words. Working with Alistair helped me a lot and it was the right decision to put my trust in him.
Alistair really cares about you the person, and I could really feel him trying to tackle my challenges. He was also very available for off-session contact via text and email. I think he did a great job with confronting me where I needed it. Alistair always could remember the important peoples' names in my personal life, which really helped with talking about my problems. I really felt like I was talking to a friend.
Alistair is an awesome counsellor. He has been so helpful in working with me through some tough times in my life. He's always been available to chat with me in-between sessions. I'd recommend Alistair to anyone - he's really the ideal counsellor in my view.
I enjoy how sessions are collaborative where I can take the lead for the direction of what we talk about, and at the same time I know that Alistair will offer helpful guidance and insight along the way. I also like how we focus on the future instead of just the past. I find this to be empowering and helpful to move forward in life.
Alistair is an awesome counsellor. He has been so helpful in working with me through some tough times in my life. He's always been available to chat with me in-between sessions. I'd recommend Alistair to anyone - he's really the ideal counsellor in my view.
I have always felt very comfortable with Alistair. He has a calming presence, and you can tell he cares about being the best counsellor for you. He helps you with all aspects of your concern, and is always able to help me find a solution to the problem I'm having.
Alistair is an exceptionally talented counsellor and has always demonstrated strong ethics, great compassion, wisdom and respect for others. I highly recommend him as a counselling practitioner.
Choose an EMDR Therapist at Wellspring
Compare EMDR counsellors and photos with the BC and EMDR filters already selected, or use Wellspring AI for matching help.
Start by reviewing the profiles of Alistair Gordon, Jonathan Hers, Kaitlin Rai, Tingting Wang and Laura Tamutis. Compare their areas of focus, EMDR training, languages and provincial eligibility. Confirm availability and whether sessions are online or in person with the individual clinician.
A free 15-minute virtual consultation is a chance to ask about fit, your goals and practical next steps. It is not a full counselling or EMDR treatment session. Our consultation checklist can help you prepare questions about the therapist’s approach and what an initial appointment may involve.
Read our fees and policies, then confirm the current fee and appointment length in Jane before booking. Extended health coverage depends on your plan and the clinician’s designation. Wellspring provides receipts and does not bill insurers directly; confirm eligibility with your insurer.
