13 March 2025

25 advantages of online EMDR versus in-person sessions

Is online EMDR therapy effective?

Yes! And here are 25 reasons why virtual EMDR therapy is an effective mental health treatment

Online EMDR therapy is a form of telehealth that allows clients to receive eye movement desensitization and reprocessing remotely. Here’s what you can expect.

TL; DR

Receive the list of 25 advantages of online EMDR treatment in a handy pdf. Click here →

What is EMDR?

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) aims to reprocess disturbing memories and reduce their emotional impact, and this can be facilitated in an online therapy session

Online EMDR treatment is conventient

Online therapy, including online emdr therapy, offers a convenient and accessible way to receive mental health services for trauma and other conditions

Remote EMDR therapy makes EMDR therapists more accessible

As part of telehealth, online emdr therapy can overcome geographical limitations, making eye movement desensitization and reprocessing available to those who cannot easily attend an in-person session 

Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) in EMDR online therapy

During an online therapy session for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, various forms of bilateral stimulation (BLS) can be used, including visual bls on a screen and auditory bls via headphones, although tactile BLS (like tapping) might be adapted for self-administration or guided instruction

EMDR therapy online is a scientifically valid type of therapy

EMDR therapy, whether online or in-person, is an evidence-based therapy for trauma, anxiety, and other mental health conditions, including phobia

An online EMDR therapy session uses the eight-phase protocol.

The eight phases of EMDR therapy are maintained in online emdr therapy, ensuring a structured approach to processing traumatic experiences

Online mental health makes it easier to engage in therapy

While in-person sessions offer a traditional therapeutic setting, online therapy provides flexibility and can be particularly helpful for individuals with anxiety or agoraphobia.

Online eye movement desensitization is as effective in treating trauma as in-person therapy

The goal of online emdr therapy remains the same as in-person sessions: to facilitate the reprocessing of traumatic memories and the integration of adaptive positive beliefs

EMDR treatment vs. cognitive-behavioral therapy for treating PTSD

EMDR therapy does not involve detailed descriptions of the traumatic event, direct challenging of beliefs, extended exposure, or homework, unlike some forms of cbt.

The therapist will help suggest a treatment plan

For online emdr therapy to be effective, a compliant client who is willing to engage in the process is important, just as in in-person psychotherapy sessions.

EMDRIA (the EMDR International Association) stimulates the development of professional standards

Online therapy platforms for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing require the therapist to maintain professional practice and guidelines, including ethical considerations, similar to in-person sessions

Scientific studies show EMDR is an effective treatment 

The effectiveness of treatment with online EMDR therapy for trauma and other mental health conditions is supported by research, making it a viable alternative to in-person sessions

The AIP model, as discovered by Francine Shapiro

Online EMDR therapy adheres to the principles of the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which is central to how eye movement desensitization and reprocessing works to address traumatic experiences. This model was first described by Francine Shapiro, the discoverer of EMDR.

Both virtual and in-person EMDR are designed to help

While the delivery method differs, the core components of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, including targeting traumatic memories and negative beliefs, remain consistent in online emdr therapy compared to an in-person session.

Not just for post-traumatic stress disorder

Online therapy sessions for phobia can utilize the adapted EMDR trauma protocol designed for phobias

Therapeutic relationship

The therapeutic relationship remains crucial in online EMDR therapy, just as in an in-person session, emphasizing safety, acceptance, and compassion when working with trauma

Virtual eye movement desensitization works wherever you and your therapist are

Telehealth solutions, such as online emdr therapy, increase accessibility to specialized trauma-focused care

Access to qualifed healthcare providers

Individuals who have experienced traumatic experiences can begin their healing journey through online therapy with a qualified EMDR therapist, potentially reducing barriers associated with attending an in-person session

PTSD treatment that is different from other talk treatment modalities

Although cbt is another evidence-based therapy for trauma, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing offers a different approach that does not require detailed verbal exposure

An online EMDR session is structured the same as a traditional session

The structure of a typical therapy session for online EMDR therapy will follow the eight phases, just as it would in an in-person session

Emotional pain may be easier to access in your own safe space

For clients who may feel more comfortable in their own environment when processing difficult traumatic experiences, online therapy can be a beneficial option compared to an in-person session 

Therapists can provide services more efficiently

Online emdr therapy, as a form of telehealth, allows EMDR therapists to extend their reach and provide care to a wider population dealing with trauma, anxiety, and phobia 

You do EMDR work because you want to heal

The ultimate goal of both online emdr therapy and in-person sessions of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing is to promote healing and resolution of the impact of traumatic experiences

Online EMDR can take place without eye movements

While bilateral stimulation (BLS) via eye movements might be more complicated in online EMDR therapy, the core element of alternating stimulation to aid reprocessing of trauma is maintained through visual and auditory methods. A popular form is the butterfly hug where you tap your own upper arms.

Now that you've come this far

Let's get in touch. I will send you my list of 50 essential therapist skills in a neat pdf.

Michiel Bosman MD PhD

EMDR- and IFS-trained Psychiatrist

Connect With Me →

Michiel Bosman MD PhD

EMDR- and IFS-trained Psychiatrist

 

 

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