Susanna was struggling with some events in her past that simply would not let her get good sleep at night; often she awoke with nightmares and in a cold sweat. She just could not shake what had happened to her. Together we decided that EMDR therapy (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) might be a good fit for her. Even though we only saw each other virtually on a screen, I guided her through a traumatic event from her past using EMDR. After she fully processed the event Susanna was better able to sleep and completed therapy a few weeks later.
What is EMDR?
The goal of EMDR is to help individuals process and integrate distressing memories more adaptively so that they no longer trigger overwhelming emotions or negative beliefs about themselves. EMDR is typically conducted over several sessions and may be used in conjunction with other forms of therapy. It is widely recognized and supported by research for trauma-related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and has also been used to treat anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions.
Now that you’re a little familiar with EMDR as a practice you might be wondering if it is an option if you aren’t able to get in to see your therapist in person. The answer is a most definite yes! While EMDR therapy looks a little different virtually the same results can and do happen in sessions.
What are the benefits of online EMDR therapy in Houston?
Are you someone who fears going outside to get therapy? Perhaps the traffic to get to and from your therapist’s office is anxiety-provoking, or you might worry that the therapist will judge you and you won’t be able to soothe yourself without your belongings and space. What about the temperature of the office? Is the thought of having your animal close to you while you do therapy appealing? Online therapy might be for you.
According to the Eye Movement Dissociation and Reprocessing International Association (EMDRIA), before the pandemic virtual EMDR was met with skepticism; but virtual EMDR is now commonplace. However, much like any therapy, the best results occur if you already have a good therapeutic relationship with a therapist trained to do EMDR.
How Effective is EMDR online?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of therapy that has been shown to be effective in treating various mental health disorders. Recently, researchers have been investigating the effectiveness of EMDR online, as more people are seeking mental health treatment remotely. The results of these studies have been promising, with several studies showing that online EMDR is just as effective as in-person EMDR. For example, a 2020 meta-analysis of 13 studies found that online EMDR was associated with significant improvements in symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Additionally, a 2021 randomized controlled trial found that online EMDR was just as effective as in-person EMDR in reducing PTSD symptoms. These findings suggest that online EMDR is a viable option for individuals seeking mental health treatment, particularly those who may not have access to in-person therapy.
Steps of EMDR online
The first step in doing EMDR virtually is to find what stimulation works for you with your therapist guiding you along the way through the process. Some potential options are:
Tap on your body “butterfly hugs” using a digital metronome to help keep time. This YouTube video explains that concept.
Following a light moving across your screen with your eyes set up by the therapist.
Your therapist will act as your guide through this process and help keep you from getting overwhelmed. They either stop the stimulation or instruct you to do so yourself. While technology can at times be a challenge; any worry about EMDR not working just because you can’t get to the office should not be a major one. The connection between therapist and client can be felt the same way online as it is in person. You deserve to be comfortable in doing the at times challenging work that is recovering from your trauma. For some of you doing online, EMDR treatment will feel more comfortable.
When should you use online EMDR treatment?
Online EMDR therapy may be appropriate in a variety of situations, particularly when in-person therapy is not feasible or accessible. For example, individuals who live in remote or rural areas may not have easy access to EMDR therapists, and online therapy can provide a more convenient option. Additionally, individuals who have mobility or transportation issues, or who are homebound, may benefit from online therapy. Online EMDR therapy may also be helpful for individuals who are uncomfortable with in-person therapy, or who have social anxiety or other conditions that make it difficult to attend in-person sessions.
However, it is important to note that not all individuals may be suitable for online EMDR therapy. For example, individuals who are actively experiencing severe symptoms of a mental health disorder, such as suicidal thoughts or hallucinations, may require more intensive in-person treatment. Additionally, individuals who have a history of seizures or other medical conditions that may be triggered by the bilateral stimulation used in EMDR therapy may not be suitable for this type of treatment. Ultimately, the decision to use online EMDR therapy should be made in consultation with a qualified EMDR therapist, who can assess the individual's specific needs and determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
If you are dealing with trauma from your past or have deep-seated anxiety about something that may happen in the future, EMDR may be just what you need to heal. It can often work when talk therapy has not been enough to make a difference.
Wondering if online EMDR is an option for you? Contact us today to talk to a therapist and see if you are a good fit for this type of treatment.
OTHER THERAPY SERVICES WE OFFER IN HOUSTON, TX
In addition to EMDR Therapy, Trauma Therapy, and PTSD Treatment, we have other mental health services that we offer at our Houston, TX counseling office. Our services are available for adults, children, and teens. For individuals, we offer Anxiety Treatment, Couples and Marriage Therapy, Eating Disorder Therapy, School and College Counseling, and Infertility Counseling. As well LGBTQ+ Counseling. Our caring therapists also offer Family Therapy, Career Counseling, and LPC Supervision. All of these services are also available through Online Counseling throughout Texas.