Is Online EMDR Therapy Effective? What Clients Want to Know

Often I get asked, how does EMDR therapy work online? Let’s first start by clarifying that EMDR works by utilizing bilateral stimulation. Bilateral stimulation is the process in which the right and then the left hemisphere of the brain is activated back and forth in an oscillation motion. Often bilateral stimulation is misunderstood to be about light activation, but instead bilateral stimulation can be created through eye movements, sound (using headphones), self tapping or theratappers / buzzers held in the hands. By stimulation the right and left side of the body, we are thereby stimulating the right and left hemisphere. 

Since bilateral stimulation is what we hope to achieve, we can facilitate this online using a computer and computer programs that allow for bilateral stimulus. For example, these bilateral stimulation programs will create a moving target that you can track with your eyes or with the use of headphones sound stimulus can be activate. Furthermore, one can self tap independently back and forth on their body. 

With all of this said, these following points make online EMDR ideal:

1. A strong and consistent internet connection. 

2. A computer / laptop so that a video call and the bilateral stimulus program can run simultaneously. 

3. Having corded headphones for sound bilateral stimulation, so that if sound is your preferred method, you won’t have your headphones’ battery die prematurely. 

4. Having a safe, and private/ confidential space for participating in therapy. Ideally this space is quiet and allows you to focus.

If you're ready to get started with online EMDR therapy in BC, click here and I'll be happy to walk you through the next steps.