EMDR Therapy for PTSD After Car Accidents: What Ontario Personal Injury Victims Need to Know

August 12, 2025, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Motor vehicle accidents often leave behind more than just physical injuries. For many individuals in Ontario, the emotional trauma of a serious car crash can lead to post, traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), a debilitating psychological condition that can affect daily functioning, employment, and quality of life.

One treatment for PTSD is Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy (EMDR). As personal injury lawyers in Ontario, we often see how EMDR therapy plays a critical role in both recovery and in documenting the emotional harm for car accident victims seeking compensation.

If you've been injured in a motor vehicle accident and are experiencing anxiety, nightmares, or fear associated with the crash, you may be eligible for compensation under Ontario’s personal injury law framework, including coverage for EMDR therapy as part of your recovery.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured psychotherapy approach that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences. Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR involves guided eye movements or other bilateral stimulation while the patient recalls distressing memories.

This method is clinically proven to reduce the emotional impact of trauma, particularly in people diagnosed with PTSD following car accidents, workplace incidents, or other personal injury events.

EMDR is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) and Health Canada as a gold, standard treatment for PTSD, and is increasingly used by mental health professionals across Ontario.

PTSD After a Car Accident: More Common Than You Think

While physical injuries such as fractures, whiplash, or concussions are often treated immediately, the psychological injuries caused by motor vehicle accidents may not surface until weeks or even months later. Symptoms of PTSD can include:

• Intrusive memories or flashbacks of the accident
• Nightmares or sleep disturbances
• Avoidance of driving or being near vehicles
• Heightened anxiety or emotional numbness
• Difficulty concentrating or returning to work

These symptoms can be deeply disruptive and may qualify as a compensable injury under Ontario’s personal injury laws.

How EMDR Therapy Supports Your Personal Injury Claim in Ontario

At Deutschmann de Koning Personal Injury Law, we work with accident victims throughout Ontario who are navigating the complex emotional and legal aftermath of a serious crash. Here’s how EMDR therapy can support your claim for compensation:

1. Documenting Psychological Injury

In a personal injury case, psychological trauma like PTSD must be properly diagnosed and treated by a qualified mental health professional. EMDR therapy sessions generate medical records that help demonstrate the presence, severity, and impact of PTSD caused by the accident.

2. Claiming Accident Benefits and Treatment Costs

Under Ontario’s Statutory Accident Benefits Schedule (SABS), individuals involved in motor vehicle accidents may be entitled to coverage for medical and rehabilitation expenses—including EMDR therapy. If your PTSD is categorized as a “non, minor” injury, EMDR may be funded through your accident benefits claim or sought in a tort action against the at, fault driver.

3. Proving Loss of Income and Functional Impairment

PTSD can make it difficult to return to work or perform regular activities. EMDR therapists often provide detailed reports outlining how the trauma impacts your ability to function. These assessments can help substantiate claims for income replacement benefits, loss of future earnings, or long, term care costs.

4. Expert Testimony and Legal Support

EMDR, trained therapists can provide expert opinions or written reports to support your personal injury claim. Their insights can be used during settlement negotiations, mediations, or court proceedings to strengthen the credibility of your psychological injury claim.

The Legal Importance of Recognizing PTSD in Car Accident Claims

Many personal injury victims in Ontario underestimate the importance of psychological injuries. However, PTSD can be just as disabling as a physical injury and may take even longer to heal. By incorporating EMDR therapy into your recovery plan, you not only improve your chances of emotional recovery but also help build a stronger case for full compensation.

If you’re dealing with PTSD after a car crash in Ontario, seeking timely mental health treatment and connecting with an experienced personal injury lawyer is essential. Legal teams can help coordinate with your healthcare providers, ensure your therapy is properly documented, and advocate for your right to financial recovery.

Speak to an Ontario Personal Injury Lawyer About EMDR and PTSD

At Deutschmann de Koning Personal Injury Law, we understand how deeply traumatic a motor vehicle accident can be—not just physically, but emotionally. If you're undergoing EMDR therapy for PTSD or suspect you may be suffering from trauma after a car accident, our team is here to guide you through the legal process.

We have extensive experience helping clients across Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, and beyond recover compensation for medical treatment, emotional distress, and lost wages. Let us help you navigate your recovery—both legally and emotionally.

About Deutschmann de Koning Law

Deutschmann de Koning Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann and Nick de Koning focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.ddinjurylaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.