Is Remote EMDR as Effective as In-Person?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has gained recognition as an effective treatment for trauma, anxiety, and other mental health issues. EMDR is traditionally done in person, but can remote EMDR still work?
As technology continues to revolutionize the field of mental health, there are more and more people interested in doing EMDR therapy online.
So, can EMDR be conducted online, and is it as effective as traditional in-person sessions? In this blog, we will explore the effectiveness of online EMDR, backed by research that highlights its results compared to face-to-face therapy.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a psychotherapy technique developed in the late 1980s that focuses on processing and healing traumatic memories.
During a typical EMDR session, the therapist guides the client through bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping, while revisiting distressing memories. This process helps reprocess the traumatic experiences, reducing their emotional impact and alleviating related symptoms.
What are the 8 stages of EMDR?
Whether you’re doing in-person or online EMDR, this type of therapy includes an eight-phase treatment plan. The eight phases include:
Phase 1: History-taking
Phase 2: Preparing the client for treatment
Phase 3: Assessing the target memory, trauma or issue
Phases 4-7: Processing the memory/trauma/issue
Phase 8: Evaluating treatment results
Does EMDR Online Therapy Actually Work?
Initially designed for in-person sessions, EMDR has been transitioning into the digital realm thanks to advances in online communication platforms and secure video conferencing.
Therapists have adapted their techniques to facilitate remote EMDR, ensuring clients can receive the same treatment from the comfort of their homes.
And research shows that online EMDR works.
Research on EMDR Online Effectiveness
Numerous studies have looked into the effectiveness of EMDR therapy and have consistently shown positive results.
In a 2019 randomized controlled trial published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress, researchers compared the effects of in-person EMDR to online EMDR for survivors of sexual assault. Both groups showed significant reductions in trauma symptoms, with no statistically significant differences between them.
A 2020 study published in the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research compared the outcomes of in-person and online EMDR for individuals with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The researchers found no significant differences in treatment effectiveness between the two formats.
Another study reviewed the effects of online EMDR during the Covid-19 pandemic and found that patients who experienced remote EMDR had good clinical outcomes. Patients saw significant reductions in psychological symptoms after online EMDR.
The Benefits of Remote EMDR
There are many benefits of EMDR therapy for a broad range of diagnoses and challenges, from anxiety and depression to PTSD and panic disorder. Doing EMDR online has many of its own benefits too, including:
Accessibility
EMDR online removes geographical barriers, allowing individuals in remote or underserved areas to access specialized trauma therapy.
Comfort
For clients with severe trauma or anxiety, engaging in therapy from their safe and familiar environment can foster a greater sense of comfort and safety.
Flexibility
Online EMDR offers scheduling flexibility, accommodating busy lifestyles and allowing clients to fit therapy into their routines more easily.
Anonymity
The online format may reduce the fear of judgment or stigma for clients who prefer to keep their therapy more private.
Common Questions About Online EMDR Therapy
Can I do EMDR on myself at home?
While you can absolutely find videos on YouTube about self-EMDR therapy, it is absolutely not recommended to try doing EMDR on your own. EMDR therapists are specially trained to conduct this style of therapy. It’s important to work with a skilled therapist if you’re going to try EMDR.
Can EMDR be done by Zoom?
Yes, it can! Many therapists use secure Zoom rooms or similar online video conferencing to conduct remote EMDR.
How much does online EMDR cost?
It depends! Every EMDR therapist will have their own fee based on their years of experience, their training and their location. At Thrive Psychology Group, we offer self-pay EMDR therapy services in 40+ states around the country. Explore EMDR in your state and schedule your first session.
How effective is virtual EMDR?
Remote EMDR can be just as effective as in-person EMDR therapy, and may even be more effective for some patients. Because online EMDR can be done in the comfort of your own home, patients struggling with PTSD, panic disorder, anxiety and other concerns may feel more comfortable and safe in their own space.
Ready to Try EMDR Therapy Online?
Research consistently supports the efficacy of EMDR conducted online, demonstrating that this virtual format can be just as effective as traditional in-person sessions.
With increasing evidence, therapists and clients alike are embracing the convenience, accessibility, and therapeutic benefits of EMDR online.
Whether delivered virtually or in person, EMDR therapy remains a powerful and transformative therapy for those seeking healing and relief from the burden of trauma and anxiety.
Learn more about EMDR therapy and discover if it’s right for you. Contact Thrive Psychology Group today to get started.