Online EMDR Therapy
EMDR Therapy – but online!
EMDR therapy has been traditionally conducted in-person to treat individuals struggling with trauma and distressing memories. However, with advancements in technology, therapists are now able to offer EMDR therapy sessions online. This means that individuals can now access the benefits of EMDR from the convenience and comfort of their own homes. Online EMDR therapy involves the use of bilateral stimulation through visual or auditory cues to help individuals process traumatic experiences and alleviate associated symptoms. While there may be differences in the delivery of online EMDR compared to in-person sessions, research has shown promising results regarding its effectiveness. If you are considering EMDR therapy and prefer the convenience of online sessions, it is crucial to ensure that your therapist is trained in providing EMDR virtually and that the platform used complies with privacy and security regulations.
What is EMDR therapy?
To start by providing a little bit of background information, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a proven and highly effective therapy that relies on bilateral stimulation and dual-attention awareness to aid the brain in reprocessing traumatic and formative experiences that continue to affect both the mind and body. This evidence-based approach fosters insight into the origins of present negative beliefs, coping patterns, or physical discomfort, and then guides the brain in re-evaluating these experiences. Furthermore, EMDR therapy facilitates the release of long-held emotions and sensations within the body.
During an in-person EMDR session, therapists utilize various methods for bilateral stimulation. These include eye movements guided by the therapist's hand, a light bar, or the client shifting their gaze between two points on a wall. Tactile stimulation is another option, often accomplished with handheld pulsators or tapping on the client's knees or shoulders. Some therapists incorporate auditory stimulation through headphones.
Considerations for In-Person vs. Online EMDR Sessions
When deciding between having an EMDR session in person or online, several factors should be taken into account. One crucial consideration is whether you have access to a private, interruption-free environment to conduct your session. Given the sensitive and deeply personal nature of the material addressed in EMDR therapy, having a safe and secure space is paramount.
Conducting EMDR from your home environment may be beneficial for some individuals, as they feel most at ease and comfortable in familiar surroundings. Additionally, the convenience of not having to commute following the session can be advantageous for those looking to minimize disruptions to their routine.
Ultimately, the choice between in-person and online EMDR sessions will depend on individual preferences, comfort levels, and logistical considerations. Whether opting for virtual sessions from home, work, or another suitable location, ensuring a setting that promotes feelings of safety and confidentiality is essential for a successful EMDR experience.
So what does online EMDR actually look like?
Online EMDR typically involves two main components. The first part includes a video session with your therapist, allowing both parties to see each other. The second part consists of bilateral stimulation, usually facilitated through a link sent before the session. This link contains a visual and auditory method of generating bilateral stimulation. The visual aspect might feature a moving object on your screen, while the auditory component involves a sound moving back and forth.
Alternatively, therapists may guide you to focus on two points in front of you, moving your eyes between them, tapping a surface, or using an auditory device like a metronome. EMDR can be effectively conducted online from various locations, as long as privacy and safety are maintained. Therapists have several tools at their disposal to provide the necessary bilateral stimulation for the processing involved in EMDR therapy.
Where can I get EMDR therapy?
Here at Eclipse Psychology, we have therapists who specialize in EMDR therapy. Feel free to check out our EMDR therapy page and if you’d like to learn more, you can contact us or book now.