Your Guide to Finding the Best Online EMDR Therapy
With advancements in technology, receiving EMDR therapy online has become a viable and effective option, matching the efficacy of face-to-face sessions. This is great news for those who prefer the convenience or need the flexibility of remote sessions. The cornerstone of EMDR therapy is the bilateral stimulation (BLS) technique, crucial for processing traumatic memories. Thankfully, modern online platforms offer innovative tools that mimic this experience, ensuring clients can still benefit from bilateral eye movements and auditory stimulation under the watchful guidance of their therapist via video call. These digital tools are designed to replicate the in-person EMDR experience as closely as possible.
There are also simpler but effective techniques, such as the "butterfly hug," which clients can easily use during online sessions. This method involves the client crossing their arms and tapping their shoulders, providing the necessary bilateral stimulation to process memories effectively. With the therapist's guidance, this can be a powerful tool in the client's healing journey.
Online EMDR therapy brings the transformative power of EMDR into the comfort and privacy of your home. Whether you're seeking the flexibility it offers, or you're in a location where in-person therapy isn't an option, online EMDR can be an excellent choice. But how do you ensure you're choosing the best therapist for your needs? Here's a concise guide to help you make an informed decision.
1. Ensure Proper Certification and Training
Not all therapists are trained in EMDR therapy, so it’s crucial to ensure your therapist is EMDR trained. Look for someone who has undergone training approved by EMDRIA, the leading organization for EMDR certification. There are many other much less rigorous training programs popping up that “certify” therapists in EMDR, but, unlike EMDRIA, these programs are not the gold standard for training in EMDR. EMDRIA training can help you ensure your therapist meets the rigorous standards necessary to practice this powerful therapeutic modality. The three main levels of training provided by EMDRIA are “trained,” “certified”, and “consultant” status. Each level represents a greater degree of continuing education, time, and supervision and can ensure a greater degree of skill in your EMDR therapist. Therapists listed in the EMDRIA directory are a good starting point, as they have demonstrated competence in the eight phases of EMDR therapy and are all EMDRIA certified at a minimum. EMDRIA certification is a testament to a therapist's commitment to providing high-quality care.
2. Experience with Online Therapy Platforms
Online therapy requires a different set of skills. Ensure your therapist is experienced in delivering EMDR therapy through virtual platforms, maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the treatment. Discuss how they handle privacy and technical issues to ensure a smooth and secure therapy experience.
3. Tailored Approach and Integration of Techniques like Parts Work
The best therapists understand that each client's needs are unique. Look for a therapist who integrates other therapeutic techniques, such as parts work or somatic practices, to offer a more personalized treatment plan that addresses your specific needs and that can help to enhance the power of EMDR.
A therapist who integrates parts work can be essential if you have complex trauma. Parts work can help you understand, communicate with, and directly target the different “parts” of yourself that hold trauma, fear, or protective mechanisms. When combined with EMDR therapy, this approach can provide deeper healing by acknowledging and working through the specific needs of each part of you that has been impacted by trauma.
A tailored approach may also involve somatic work, mindfulness, or other therapeutic modalities that complement the EMDR process, ensuring that your therapy is uniquely suited to your healing journey.
4. Read Reviews and Testimonials
Getting feedback from other clients can provide insights into a therapist's approach and effectiveness, especially in an online setting. Reviews can help you better understand the therapist's ability to connect with clients and facilitate their healing process. However, since it is against most therapist’s code of ethics to directly ask clients for reviews, you may find the number of reviews lacking. If you can’t find many reviews for a therapist the is likely why, and shouldn’t be considered a red flag or cause for concern.
This is also a good reminder to consider leaving a review if you have had a positive experience with a therapist to help others looking to heal and to pay it forward.
5. Availability and Scheduling Flexibility
One of the significant advantages of online therapy is the flexibility it offers. Ensure your therapist can accommodate your schedule and offer consistent sessions.
6. Trust Your Intuition
Trust your intuition when choosing an online EMDR therapist. The therapeutic relationship is the most crucial factor in the success of any therapy. If, after your first session or two, you feel a strong sense of comfort and trust with your therapist, that’s a great sign. Healing from trauma is deeply personal, and finding the right therapist will make a significant difference in your overall experience and outcomes.
Finding the best online EMDR therapist may take a bit of research, but the effort is worth it. EMDR therapy is a transformative tool for healing, and working with the right therapist can make all the difference in your recovery process. By ensuring proper certification, checking for online therapy experience, and trusting your gut, you can find a therapist who meets your unique needs and helps guide you on your path to healing.
If you're ready to explore online EMDR therapy, reach out to learn more about how this transformative approach can help you regain control and heal from past trauma.