4 things you might not know about virtual emdr

4 Things you may not know about virtual EMDR

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a highly effective therapy technique for treating trauma, anxiety, and other mental health concerns. In recent years, there’s been a shift to virtual counselling sessions, and we now have research to back the effectiveness of EMDR virtually.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation to help individuals process past traumatic events. Bilateral stimulation may include eye movements, tapping, or sounds. This therapy aims to help individuals process traumatic events and enhance connections with positive life experiences. So, how is EMDR done online?

1) EMDR online therapy sessions are conducted via video conferencing. At Amethyst Therapy, we use a program called Remote EMDR to facilitate bilateral stimulation. The therapist guides the client through the EMDR process the same way it is done in person. The therapist may need to improvise and use alternative bilateral stimulation methods, such as hand tapping or auditory sounds.

2) The online therapy sessions are conducted in a safe, comfortable, and private space where clients feel safe sharing their experiences. Ensuring that the client has no interruptions or external distractions during the session is crucial. The therapist may also provide coping mechanisms or relaxation exercises to enhance the session's effectiveness.

3) The online EMDR therapy sessions follow the same procedure as the in-person sessions. The therapist may begin with a session looking at the individual’s history, symptoms, and current issues, followed by an assessment of the individual's readiness for EMDR. The therapist may then guide the individual through bilateral stimulation and have them report on their experience. This process is repeated until the individual has fully processed their traumatic memories.

4) Studies have shown that online EMDR therapy is just as effective as, if not more effective than, in-person therapy. A 2022 study found that EMDR conducted via video conferencing was as effective as in-person EMDR for PTSD. The study concluded that online EMDR could be used as a reliable method of treating PTSD.

In conclusion, EMDR is both safe and effective for online use. As the weather changes, our therapists are always open to a hybrid of in-person and virtual sessions to accommodate client needs. Many clients enjoy being able to feel comfortable in their own space, with their animals and other comfort items.