Traumatic experiences can leave lasting scars, impacting your mental and emotional well-being for years to come. Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has emerged as a powerful and effective treatment for processing trauma and finding healing. While traditionally delivered in person, EMDR therapy is now increasingly available online, offering a convenient and accessible option for those seeking to overcome the effects of trauma.
This comprehensive guide will explore EMDR therapy online, explaining how it works, its benefits, what to expect, and how to determine if it’s the right path for you.
Understanding Trauma and its Impact
Trauma is a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that overwhelms an individual’s ability to cope. Traumatic events can range from single incidents, such as accidents or assaults, to ongoing experiences, such as abuse or neglect. The impact of trauma can be profound and long-lasting, leading to a range of mental health issues, including:
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Characterised by intrusive thoughts, memories, flashbacks, avoidance behaviours, negative alterations in cognition and mood, and alterations in arousal and reactivity.
- Anxiety Disorders: Including generalised anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.
- Depression: Persistent sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in activities.
- Dissociative Disorders: Feeling detached from your body, emotions, or reality.
- Complex Trauma (C-PTSD): Resulting from prolonged or repeated trauma, often involving interpersonal relationships, leading to difficulties with emotional regulation, self-esteem, and relationships.
Trauma can disrupt the brain’s natural ability to process information, leading to traumatic memories becoming “stuck” and causing ongoing distress.
What is EMDR Therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a structured psychotherapy approach developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s to treat trauma and other distressing life experiences. EMDR therapy is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which posits that traumatic experiences are not properly processed in the brain and become stored in a “dysfunctional” way, leading to ongoing psychological distress.
EMDR therapy aims to unlock the brain’s natural healing process and allow traumatic memories to be processed adaptively, reducing their emotional impact and integrating them into a more coherent and positive narrative.
How EMDR Therapy Works
EMDR therapy involves an eight-phase approach:
- History Taking: The therapist gathers information about the client’s history, including traumatic experiences, current symptoms, and goals for therapy.
- Preparation: The therapist explains the EMDR process and teaches the client coping skills to manage any distress that may arise during processing.
- Assessment: The client identifies a target memory, including a negative belief associated with the memory, a positive belief they would like to have, and the emotions and physical sensations associated with the memory.
- Desensitisation: The client focuses on the target memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones. The therapist guides the client through the process, helping them to notice and process any thoughts, feelings, or sensations that arise.
- Installation: The client focuses on the positive belief they identified earlier while continuing the bilateral stimulation. The goal is to strengthen the positive belief and associate it with the target memory.
- Body Scan: The client scans their body for any remaining physical sensations associated with the target memory. If any sensations are present, the therapist guides the client through further processing.
- Closure: The therapist ensures that the client is feeling stable and grounded before ending the session.
- Re-evaluation: In subsequent sessions, the therapist re-evaluates the client’s progress and addresses any remaining issues.
The bilateral stimulation used in EMDR therapy is believed to activate the brain’s natural healing process, allowing traumatic memories to be processed more effectively. The exact mechanism of action is not fully understood, but it’s thought that bilateral stimulation may help to facilitate communication between the two hemispheres of the brain, promoting integration of traumatic memories.
EMDR Therapy Online: A New Frontier
Traditionally, EMDR therapy has been delivered in person. However, with the advancement of technology, EMDR therapy is now increasingly available online. Online EMDR therapy involves the same principles and techniques as traditional EMDR therapy, but it is delivered remotely via video conferencing.
During online EMDR sessions, the therapist guides the client through the eight phases of EMDR therapy, using a virtual form of bilateral stimulation. This can be achieved through:
- Eye Movements: The therapist may guide the client’s eye movements by having them follow a moving object on the screen.
- Tapping: The therapist may instruct the client to tap on their knees or shoulders alternately.
- Auditory Tones: The therapist may play alternating tones through headphones.
Benefits of EMDR Therapy Online
Online EMDR therapy offers several advantages over traditional in-person therapy:
- Accessibility: Online EMDR therapy removes geographical barriers, allowing you to connect with qualified EMDR therapists who may not be available in your local area.
- Convenience: Online EMDR therapy eliminates the need to travel to appointments, saving time and money. Sessions can be scheduled at your convenience, fitting into your busy lifestyle.
- Comfort: Some individuals feel more comfortable processing traumatic memories in the privacy of their own homes.
- Reduced Stigma: Seeking mental health support online can feel less intimidating than attending face-to-face sessions, reducing the stigma associated with mental health treatment.
- Continuity of Care: Online EMDR therapy allows you to continue treatment even if you move or travel.
Is Online EMDR Therapy Effective?
Research suggests that online EMDR therapy can be as effective as in-person EMDR therapy for treating trauma and other mental health issues. Studies have shown that online EMDR therapy can lead to significant reductions in PTSD symptoms, anxiety, and depression.
However, it’s important to note that online EMDR therapy may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with severe trauma or those who are actively suicidal may benefit more from in-person treatment where more intensive support is available.
What to Expect in Online EMDR Therapy Sessions
The structure and content of online EMDR therapy sessions will be similar to those of in-person sessions. You can expect the following:
- Initial Assessment: The first session will typically involve an assessment of your history, current symptoms, and goals for therapy.
- Preparation: The therapist will explain the EMDR process and teach you coping skills to manage any distress that may arise during processing.
- Processing: You will focus on a target memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. The therapist will guide you through the process, helping you to notice and process any thoughts, feelings, or sensations that arise.
- Closure: The therapist will ensure that you are feeling stable and grounded before ending the session.
- Homework: The therapist may assign homework assignments to help you practice coping skills or to continue processing traumatic memories between sessions.
Choosing the Right Online EMDR Therapist
Finding a qualified and experienced EMDR therapist is crucial for successful treatment. When choosing an online EMDR therapist, consider the following factors:
- Licensure: Ensure that the therapist is licensed to practice therapy in the UK.
- EMDR Certification: Look for therapists who are certified in EMDR therapy by a reputable organisation, such as the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA).
- Experience: Choose a therapist who has extensive experience working with trauma and using EMDR therapy.
- Comfort Level with Technology: Ensure that the therapist is comfortable using technology to deliver online therapy.
- Therapeutic Style: Consider the therapist’s therapeutic style and choose someone with whom you feel comfortable and safe.
Preparing for Online EMDR Therapy
To ensure a successful online EMDR therapy experience, it’s important to prepare in advance:
- Find a Private and Quiet Space: Choose a location where you feel safe and comfortable and where you won’t be interrupted.
- Ensure a Stable Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is essential for a smooth video conferencing experience.
- Gather Necessary Materials: Have tissues, water, and any other comfort items readily available.
- Learn Coping Skills: Practice coping skills, such as deep breathing or mindfulness, to manage any distress that may arise during processing.
- Communicate with Your Therapist: Discuss any concerns or questions you have with your therapist before the session.
Is Online EMDR Therapy Right for You?
Online EMDR therapy can be a valuable tool for processing trauma and finding healing. However, it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Consider the following factors to determine if online EMDR therapy is right for you:
- Severity of Trauma: Individuals with severe trauma or those who are actively suicidal may benefit more from in-person treatment.
- Access to Technology: You’ll need access to a computer, a stable internet connection, and a private space to participate in online EMDR therapy.
- Comfort Level with Technology: You should feel comfortable using technology for therapy.
- Motivation and Commitment: Online EMDR therapy requires active participation and commitment to the treatment process.
- Support System: Having a strong support system can be helpful during the EMDR therapy process.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Healing Through EMDR Online
EMDR therapy online offers a convenient, accessible, and effective way to process trauma and find healing. By finding a qualified therapist, preparing for sessions, and committing to the treatment process, you can unlock the brain’s natural healing abilities and reclaim your life after trauma.
