How EMDR Can Be Effective in Online Therapy

Margaret McCallum
Aug 19, 2024
3 min read

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) has become a well-known and effective treatment for trauma and other distressing life experiences. Traditionally, EMDR is conducted in person, but as more therapy moves online, many people wonder if the same benefits can be achieved virtually. The answer is yes—EMDR can be highly effective in online therapy when delivered correctly. As a therapist who frequently uses EMDR online, I’ve seen firsthand how transformative it can be, even in a virtual setting.

Let’s explore how EMDR works in a virtual space and why it continues to be a powerful tool for healing, even when done online.

How EMDR Works

EMDR is an evidence-based therapy designed to help people process and heal from traumatic experiences. It involves focusing on a disturbing memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory cues. This process helps rewire the brain’s response to traumatic memories, reducing the intensity of the emotional distress they cause.

The Shift to Online EMDR

With the rise of teletherapy, many therapists have adapted EMDR for online sessions. Initially, some practitioners and clients were hesitant about whether it could be as effective remotely. However, research and clinical experience have shown that virtual EMDR can be just as impactful as in-person sessions, provided that the therapist uses the right tools and techniques.

How Online EMDR Works

In an online EMDR session, the core principles remain the same, but the delivery is adapted to the digital space. Here are some common ways this is achieved:

Visual Bilateral Stimulation: One of the most common forms of bilateral stimulation in online EMDR is using the therapist’s screen to guide the client’s eye movements. Specialized software or even simple video tools can be used, where clients follow a moving object or light on their screen from side to side.
Tactile and Auditory Options: For clients who prefer other forms of bilateral stimulation, tactile devices that provide alternating vibrations or auditory tones can be used. Clients can also manually tap on their own shoulders or knees in a rhythm guided by the therapist.
Secure and Private Platforms: The success of online EMDR depends on creating a safe, private environment. Reliable video platforms ensure that sessions are uninterrupted and secure, helping clients feel comfortable and focused on the work at hand.

Why Online EMDR Works

There are several reasons why EMDR remains effective online:

Consistency of the EMDR Protocol: The structured nature of EMDR’s eight-phase protocol translates well to virtual settings. The same steps and procedures that guide in-person sessions are applied online, ensuring continuity and effectiveness.
Increased Accessibility: Online EMDR opens up therapy to clients who may otherwise struggle to attend in-person sessions. For those in remote areas, with mobility challenges, or who have anxiety about leaving home, virtual EMDR offers a way to access high-quality treatment without added barriers.
Comfort in Familiar Environments: Some clients find that being in their own home during sessions helps them feel more at ease. When working on challenging memories, feeling safe and comfortable is crucial, and a familiar environment can facilitate this.
Enhanced Focus on the Therapeutic Process: The digital setup can sometimes lead to fewer distractions. Without the physical presence of the therapist, some clients feel more focused on the internal work and less self-conscious about the process.

Tips for a Successful Online EMDR Experience

While online EMDR is effective, there are a few key factors that can enhance the experience:

Stable Internet Connection: A reliable internet connection is crucial for maintaining the flow of the session and avoiding interruptions.
Comfortable Setup: Both the client and therapist should be seated comfortably, with enough space to engage in the eye movement exercises. Ensuring good lighting and minimizing distractions helps maintain focus.
Strong Rapport and Communication: Clear communication is essential in any therapeutic setting, and even more so online. Checking in regularly, adjusting the pace, and ensuring the client feels supported are important elements.

Final Thoughts

Online EMDR has proven itself as a powerful and flexible approach to trauma therapy. As therapists, it’s important to stay adaptable and use technology to continue offering effective care. By integrating the same protocols and adjusting to the needs of the online environment, EMDR can bring relief and healing to clients, no matter where they are.

If you’re considering EMDR but are unsure about online sessions, know that it’s a viable and effective option. Whether in person or virtually, the core of EMDR remains the same: helping clients reprocess difficult memories and move forward with greater peace and resilience.