How can EMDR be done remotely at home?

During the pandemic, many mental health care providers started offering online and telehealth services, like EMDR, to meet the increased demand for COVID-safe mental health care. Because of the pandemic, online therapy is becoming easier to use, and more people are getting the help they need to improve.

Remote EMDR therapy can be done at home with the help of a licensed therapist who can guide the patient through the process via video conferencing or phone calls. The therapist may also provide the patient with specific instructions and tools during their EMDR sessions at home.

These tools may include breathing exercises, visualization techniques, or other relaxation methods to help patients manage their emotions, stay grounded during the session, and produce visual, auditory, or tactile bilateral stimulation. 

The patient needs to follow these instructions carefully and practice them regularly to achieve the best results from their EMDR therapy. Additionally, the therapist may give the patient a journal to record their thoughts and feelings before and after each session.

What is EMDR Therapy

EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, a psychotherapy approach that helps individuals process traumatic memories and experiences. It involves a structured protocol that includes eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to facilitate the processing distressing memories.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has been shown to help treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health problems. EMDR therapy is meant to help people deal with traumatic events and lessen the emotional pain they cause.

Eye Movement Desensitization, Reprocessing, and cognitive behavioural therapy are equally effective in treating post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but EMDR may produce results more quickly than CBT.

Benefits of EMDR Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing effectively treat various mental health conditions, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. It can also help individuals process traumatic experiences and reduce the intensity of their emotional responses to triggers.

Improved self-awareness

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing therapy help individuals to identify and process negative beliefs about themselves that may be holding them back, leading to improved self-awareness and a greater sense of self-esteem. This can lead to better decision-making, healthier relationships, and improved quality of life.

Reduced stress and anxiety

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is a therapy that uses eye movements to help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. Reduced stress and anxiety can improve mental health and overall well-being.

Increased resilience

Increased resilience can also result from reduced stress and anxiety, as individuals are better equipped to handle challenges and bounce back from difficult situations. This can lead to a more positive outlook and increased satisfaction with one’s circumstances.

Improved relaxation

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy has been found to help individuals process traumatic experiences and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Improved relaxation can also lead to better physical health, such as reduced stress levels and improved sleep quality.

How to Practice EMDR at Home

Remote EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapeutic technique that can be practiced at home with the help of a trained therapist. It involves focusing on traumatic memories while engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements or tapping. This technique is commonly used in therapy for individuals who have experienced trauma and can help to reduce the intensity of negative emotions associated with traumatic memories.

What are the risks of EMDR at home?

There are numerous dangers associated with practicing remote EMDR alone at home, including:

Strong reactions (intense emotional experiences associated with reliving a traumatic event). It is NOT advised to administer EMDR by yourself at home, especially if you have a history of complex trauma, childhood trauma, or a “Big T” trauma, such as sexual assault, combat or war experiences, a near-death experience, etc. These risks will be reduced to a minimum by working with an experienced EMDR therapist.

To reduce the risks mentioned above, an EMDR therapist will obtain a complete history as part of the therapy (phase 1) and ensure you have sufficient calming skills (phase 2).

The therapeutic relationship, which is crucial to the success of any therapy, including EMDR Therapy, should also be noted. Working with a therapist with a strong therapeutic rapport is crucial for getting the most out of therapy.

EMDR is not just eye movements. Keep that in mind. Its eight-phase process is what makes it such a thorough and successful therapy. To ensure there is little risk involved if you choose to use a remote EMDR, it can be beneficial to speak with our experienced EMDR professional first.

Conclusion

In conclusion, EMDR is a powerful therapy that has proven effective in treating various mental health conditions. Remote EMDR therapy sessions conducted at home have become increasingly popular during the COVID-19 pandemic, providing individuals with a safe and convenient way to receive treatment for trauma-related disorders.

While some may prefer in-person sessions, remote EMDR has proven to be an effective alternative for those who cannot or do not want to attend in-person therapy. 

Practicing remote EMDR at home can provide individuals a convenient and cost-effective way to continue their healing journey. For those interested in further learning, many resources are available such as books, online courses, and workshops.

Therefore, I encourage you to take advantage of EMDR with one of our registered therapists and continue to expand your knowledge by exploring other blogs we posted on our website by typing PTSD or EMDR in our search tool. Contact us to claim your first complimentary consult with our registered therapists. Ask us for insurance coverage.