Can EMDR Therapy Be Done Online?
Yes, it can.
However, as you begin your search for the right therapist for you, you also need to consider how you would like to have sessions: in-person or virtually. You must weigh the advantages and disadvantages of both options.
| In-Person Therapy | Virtual (Online) Therapy | |
|---|---|---|
| Convenience | Requires travel and scheduling around commute | Can be attended from home or other private locations, requiring no travel time |
| Accessibility | May be limited by location, transportation, or availability of local therapists | Easier to access therapists with wider range of specialties outside of your immediate area |
| Therapeutic Connection | Some clients feel a stronger sense of connection and presence being in the same room as their therapists | Many clients build equally strong therapeutic relationships, though some may miss the in-person interactions |
| Privacy | Therapy offices should provide a dedicated confidential space | Requires access to a private, quiet location at home or elsewhere (this may not be possible for all clients) |
| Non-verbal communication | Therapists can easily observe full body language and subtle cues. | Facial expressions are usually visible, but some body language (below the shoulders) and environmental cues may not be visible or noticeable. |
| Technology | No internet or device is required | Requires a stable internet connection, a suitable device (laptop or cellphone with camera access), as well as basic comfort using the device |
| Flexibility | More limited if you are traveling, sick, or moving home | Easier to maintain continuity during periods of travel, sickness, or moving location. |
| Comfort | Some clients excel in having a neutral structured office environment for their therapy sessions | Some clients prefer being in their familiar environment and in the comfort of their own home. |
| Crisis Support | Therapists can more readily respond to emergencies occurring during the session and may have on-site resources | Therapists can still respond to crises, but coordination may be more complex due to not being physically present |
| Effectiveness | There is strong evidence to support effectiveness of therapy sessions in-person | Similar effectiveness as in-person when delivered appropriately |
| Cost | May include hidden costs, such as gas for travel, parking, time away from work, childcare services for the during of the session | Reduced hidden costs, though session fees are usually the same |
| Suitability | May be the preferred way for certain assessments, intensive treatments, or clients who value face-to-face interactions | Well suited for talk therapies, follow-up care, and people who prefer the flexibility of online sessions. |
In some cases, it is also possible to take a hybrid approach where you have some sessions in-person and online sessions when there are obstacles to going in-person (traveling, work obligations, childcare difficulties, etc).
Is online EMDR as effective as in-person EMDR?
Virtual EMDR sessions are just as effective as in-person sessions if done by a trained EMDR therapist. Before beginning any EMDR, the therapist should assess your specific needs to determine if virtual sessions are appropriate for you.
How does EMDR work over video?
Instead of sitting together in a dedicated office space, your therapist uses a video conferencing application (WhatsApp video, Zoom, Skype, Signal) and guides you through the EMDR therapy. Bilateral stimulation is still used, though the therapist may use bilateral tapping or audio tones rather than eye movements.
What do I need for online sessions?
For online EMDR sessions, you will typically need a reliable internet connection as well as a computer, tablet, or smartphone with a camera and microphone. You will need a private space where you won’t be interrupted.
What if my internet connection drops?
Before beginning online sessions, your therapist should discuss a backup plan, which can include a 10-minute waiting time to try to reconnect, switching to a phone call, or rescheduling if necessary.
Is online EMDR Safe?
Whether online or in-person, your therapist should ensure that you have appropriate coping strategies, a safe environment, and a plan for managing strong emotions before beginning trauma processing. The therapist should ensure that you are a suitable client for EMDR at this time.
Do I need to be in a private room?
Yes. Privacy is a key component of therapy, both in-person and virtually. Privacy helps you feel comfortable opening and being vulnerable, as well as reducing distractions. You need a place where you can feel free to speak without repercussions or judgment.
Will I feel emotionally overwhelmed after a virtual session?
It is common to experience strong emotions after EMDR sessions, as there is still processing after the session. Before beginning EMDR, your therapist should have helped you develop your toolbox of coping skills and how to care for yourself between appointments.
Can I do EMDR from my car?
Yes. If your car is the only private place you have access to, it can be used. You should try to ensure that you are parked in a private area, where there are minimal distractions (not too many people or cars moving around nearby). Try to have the car parked in a quiet, secluded area.
However, you should be parked (absolutely no driving during sessions).
How long are online EMDR sessions?
Online sessions are typically the same length as in-person sessions: 60-90 minutes. These sessions include:
- A quick debrief of your week and things you noticed since the last session
- EMDR processing
- Closing of the session and coping skills to bring you back down to neutral
What if I become distressed during the session?
If you become distressed during the session, your therapist is there to support you. They are trained to help you regulate your emotions and can talk you through different coping strategies. Before beginning any EMDR therapy, your therapist should have already gotten you to work on building your own toolbox of coping skills that you can use both during and after the session.
Is online therapy confidential?
All therapy, in-person and online, should be 100% confidential. Therapists typically use secure, encrypted video platforms. You also have a critical role in choosing a private location and securing your own device.
Who is online EMDR suitable for?
Online EMDR is a good option for people with busy schedules who need flexibility. It is also for clients who prefer having sessions from the comfort of their own home. It can also be suitable for those who do not have access to various specialties in their immediate location and want a specific therapist despite the geographical distance.
Who is not a good candidate for online therapy?
Some clients who are currently experiencing a severe crisis, significant safety concerns, or who disassociate regularly would benefit more from in-person care or additional support. Your therapist should work with you to determine the best approach.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, there was a significant increase in online therapy. Many clients made the switch from in-person sessions to online sessions and enjoyed the benefits of it. Online EMDR is not for everyone, and it should be discussed with your therapist to determine if you would make a good candidate.
If you are interested in exploring more about online EMDR therapy, you can book a free 30-minute session with me, a trained EMDR therapist, by emailing me at: huxleysiona@gmail.com
