Is online EMDR therapy really as effective as face to face?

In short… yes. Online EMDR therapy can  absolutely be just as effective as therapy delivered face to face.

As a fully accredited EMDR therapist, I have worked with many clients both online and face to face, and I have witnessed first-hand how powerful online EMDR can be. Research over the past decade consistently shows that remotely delivered therapy achieves outcomes comparable to in-person treatment. EMDR is no exception.

But to understand why it works just as well online, it helps to briefly look at how EMDR works in the first place.

What Is EMDR and How Does It Work?

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is recognised as one of the most effective therapies for trauma and a wide range of other mental health difficulties, including anxiety, low self-esteem, and distressing life experiences. When something overwhelming or traumatic happens, the brain can store the memory in a fragmented and emotionally charged way. This is why certain triggers can make old experiences feel as if they are happening all over again. EMDR works by using something called bilateral stimulation (such as guided eye movements, tapping, or alternating sounds) to help the brain reprocess these distressing memories, activating the brain’s natural healing system.

EMDR can be just as effective online….

Whether online or in person, EMDR’s effectiveness depends on:

·         A well-trained, supportive therapist that has extensive experience and training in EMDR

·         A strong therapeutic alliance between you and your therapist

·         As a client, that you are feeling safe and ready to begin processing potentially upsetting memories

The effectiveness of EMDR is not about the physical therapy space. All the aspects that make EMDR effective can be delivered equally well online. Whether you’re sitting in a therapist’s office or on your own sofa, the mechanism of your brain healing is the same.

In fact, many clients find there are distinct advantages to working from home.

What are the advantages of having EMDR therapy online?

·  Greater comfort and feeling of safety…

A key foundation of EMDR is feeling safe and supported. Online therapy gives you the control and flexibility of having sessions in your own home or wherever you feel most safe. This feeling of familiarity, comfort and safety can help with accessing difficult emotions and with emotional regulation during and after sessions. Being able to wrap yourself up in your favourite blanket during sessions or having your dog by your side can be very reassuring and calming.

·   Gentle transitions after sessions….

Processing distressing memories can feel emotionally tiring. When therapy is online, you don’t need to drive home or navigate public transport afterwards. You can simply close your laptop, make a cup of tea, and allow yourself time to rest.

·   More choice in finding the right therapist….

Online therapy allows you to search nationwide rather than being limited to your immediate area. Finding the right therapist is incredibly important. You need to feel able to trust the person you’re working with, especially when sharing deeply personal experiences. Having more choice increases the likelihood of finding someone who feels like the right fit for you.

·   Online therapy can feel less intimidating…

Opening up about yourself and your experiences online can feel less intense than sitting face to face in a therapy room. Being in your own space can reduce feelings of self-consciousness and help you speak more freely.

·  Increased flexibility…

Online EMDR therapy can make it easier to fit sessions around work, ill health, childcare, or rural living. They also take up less of your time as no commute to a therapy room it required.

Is Online EMDR Right for Everyone?

Online EMDR therapy is suitable for most people, but it’s important that:

·         You have access to a private, uninterrupted space

·         You have a stable internet connection

·         You feel comfortable working online

My name is Susie Webster and I am a fully accredited EMDR and CBT therapist working both online and face to face across various locations in Perth & Kinross. If you would like to explore whether EMDR is right for you, I offer a free 20-minute consultation call where we can talk through your questions and see if we feel like a good fit.

You can visit www.cobaltpsychotherapy.com or email: mailto:susie@cobaltpsychotherapy.co.uk?subject=Therapy Enquiry to arrange your free consultation.

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