Virtual EMDR
What is EMDR?
Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) is a gentle, neurobiological form of therapy that addresses and significantly reduces or eliminates stress and the impact of trauma. It can also aid in more adaptive grieving.
EMDR changes the brain in a short period of time. EMDR accesses and reprocesses memory networks associated high emotional activation. Something that happened in the past will actually feel as if it is in the past (instead of the present), allowing you to become more centered and at peace in your daily life.
Why choose online EMDR?
Choosing online EMDR therapy over in-person sessions has several advantages. You can attend sessions from a familiar, private space. This can be especially helpful if you have a busy schedule, chronic illness, need childcare to go to therapy, or if mobility is a concern.
Some additional benefits could include:
~ No stressful commute
~ Fewer distractions than a busy office setting
~ You can join your session from the safety and privacy of your own environment
~ You have access to the things that bring you comfort, including blankets, pets, favorite scents, candles, etc.
~ Weather issues won’t keep you from therapy
EMDR may significantly improve mental health outcomes for those receiving online psychotherapy. And it is just as effective when done remotely as it is when done face-to-face, according to current research.
EMDR & Trauma
For many, EMDR is a transformative treatment that greatly reduces the impact of traumatic or very stressful events in their lives. Some of the benefits are:
~ A reduction of symptoms (i.e. panic attacks, flashbacks, nightmares, intrusive memories / thoughts, anxiety, avoidance, or grief.
~ Increased connection with self. Following a traumatic event, some people disconnect from their bodies. EMDR can help restore connection between mind and body.
~ More control. The past should feel as if it is in the past. While EMDR will not remove your memories, you can expect less sensitivity and reactivity. You should feel as if you are more “in the driver’s seat”.
EMDR & Grief
EMDR can provide an adaptive, healing experience for grievers. Some of the benefits are:
~ Reduced anxiety (grief is often accompanied by intense emotions and body sensations of worry, anxiety, and fear). In A Grief Observed, CS Lewis wrote, “No one ever told me that grief felt so like fear. I am not afraid, but the sensation is like being afraid. The same fluttering in the stomach, the same restlessness…”
~ A deeper connection to the memories, thoughts, feelings, and experiences that you share with your deceased loved one
~ Increased resilience and more adaptive coping (even as the waves of grief continue)
~ More integration of the loss by honoring and acknowledging our capacity to love deeply
EMDR Sessions
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All EMDR sessions are offered via telehealth (online).
Sessions length and cost will vary.
Some sessions will be 50 minutes or less.
However, we may need up to 90 minutes when we desensitize and reprocess a specific memory.
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Internet. You will need a good, stable internet connection. We will talk more about what to do when there is an interruption in service before you begin.
A Bigger Screen. You will need a bigger screen - desktops and laptops work well for visual bilateral stimulation. Some clients prefer to use big screen televisions. Phones are challenging. The screen just isn’t big enough. And, I need to see more than your shoulders and head during desensitization and reprocessing of a target memory.
Wired Headphones. Wireless headphones do not always sync up well with visual input.
Tappers (Optional). You can order a pair of tappers for your personal use. They will need to be wired to your laptop or desktop. Click here for more information.
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It is important that you treat our sessions like an in-person appointment. Ensure that you choose an area that is private and free of distractions. One way to ensure privacy is by using earbuds or headphones with a built-in microphone.
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EMDR therapy has 8 phases. You will need to attend multiple sessions.
EMDR can produce results more rapidly than other forms of therapy; however, it is important to remember that every client has different needs.
Phases 1 - 2: Phases one and two look like traditional talk therapy and generally last 50 minutes per session.
Phase 1. History Taking. I will get to know you and better understand your experiences.
Phase 2. Resourcing. Together, we will find strategies, coping skills, and resources to help you manage your symptoms.
The amount of time that we spend in the first two phases will depend on your situation and history. For some clients, we may only need a few sessions in Phase 1 and 2. More complex situations may require longer.
Phases 3 - 7. Desensitization and Reprocessing. We will work together to identify a memory for desensitization and reprocessing. While bringing that memory to mind, I will introduce bilateral stimulation (BLS). BLS is a rhythmic alternating stimulation that involves both brain hemispheres. We can experiment to see what works best for you. Some choices include tapping, eye movements, and sound.
We will, most likely, progress through phases 3-7 in one single session per memory. However, it may be necessary to spend two or more sessions on a memory. Again, it depends on your individual need and circumstances. These sessions tend to run longer than the traditional 50 minute talk therapy session. I schedule 90 minutes for reprocessing and desensitization of a target memory.
Phase 8. Reevaluation. This is simply a check-in to process any new insights and track improvement of symptoms. I usually check-in at the start of every session. So, you will be well acquainted with me asking about any new insights or changes.
An Introduction to EMDR
