Does Online EMDR Really Work? Here’s What The Research Says
We're diving into a game-changer today: online EMDR therapy. This isn't your usual clinical jargon. We're talking about how this digital change is transforming the way we approach trauma therapy.
What Is EMDR?
EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It's a therapeutic approach designed to help people process distressing memories and recover from trauma. Traditionally, EMDR therapy took place in face-to-face sessions. It also always involved eye movements. But thanks to advancements in technology, it's now accessible online. We also use different forms of bilateral stimulation to create the same effect as eye movement.
EMDR has become increasingly popular because of its effectiveness. It's been proven to significantly reduce the impact of trauma on mental health. It's a valuable tool for those seeking healing and emotional well-being.
A Digital Twist on Trauma Therapy
The pandemic threw us a curveball, but it also pushed therapy into the virtual realm. We think that's a great thing. Though some app-based tech companies are still trying to cash in on the move to virtual therapy, very few are offering EMDR. That's because EMDR is a highly specialized modality that requires extensive training.
COVID as a Catalyst
The pandemic wasn't just chaos; it was a catalyst for change. The necessity of remote access lit a fire under the EMDR therapy community. Suddenly, therapists and clients alike found themselves exploring the virtual realm. Because EMDR therapy can feel very intense, many therapists weren't sure if EMDR would be effective or safe to practice online. Thankfully, it was, and online EMDR is practiced widely today.
Online EMDR: Effective or Just a Trend?
Now, let's talk real talk. Does online EMDR actually work? Drumroll, please—it does! Studies have shown that the effectiveness isn't lost in the virtual shuffle. People have reported significant improvements in their mental well-being through online EMDR therapy. So, yes, the results are speaking for themselves.
Online EMDR is not just another online trend. It's backed by research and the real-life stories of individuals who've taken the plunge. EMDRIA (the EMDR International Association) dug into the nitty-gritty to find out if this virtual shift stands its ground.
EMDRIA's Research On The Effectiveness of Online EMDR
The EMDR International Association took the transition to online care during COVID seriously. They delved into the effectiveness of online EMDR and continue to research it today. Their findings? Well, they paint a pretty promising picture. Just because the setting shifted from in-person to online doesn't mean the results took a nosedive. EMDR therapy's core principles held strong, even through the digital barrier.
EMDRIA found two critical elements of effective online EMDR:
1) a safe therapeutic relationship
2) care from a fully trained and experienced professional
The Importance of a Safe Therapeutic Relationship in EMDR
In the world of therapy, trust and a secure therapeutic relationship are paramount. Healing trauma isn't something you tackle on your own. It's all about collaboration between you and a trained therapist. Together, you create a safe and supportive environment where you can delve into the depths of your experiences. Your therapist helps you navigate through the emotional terrain that trauma has left behind. They offer guidance, reassurance, and expertise to ensure that EMDR is not only effective but also healing. The bond between therapist and client is essential, making it a central aspect of the online EMDR process.
The Importance of Proper Training and Experience for Your EMDR Therapist
EMDR training isn’t a self-paced online class any therapist can take. It’s a highly structured and monitored live training, consisting of a minimum of 50 hours, plus ongoing clinical consultation and support with an EMDRIA-approved consultant. It’s a highly complex modality, so it’s important that your therapist have the training and consultation to make sure it’s being used properly.
Dispelling the Myth of Self-Administered EMDR Apps
Now, let's talk about a big misconception: the idea that you can do EMDR on yourself through a mobile app. While technology has opened new doors for mental health care, EMDR isn't a DIY project. EMDR therapy requires the expertise of a trained and experienced therapist. An app might offer relaxation exercises or meditation, but it can't replicate the nuanced therapeutic process of EMDR.
Your therapist is there to ensure your safety and well-being throughout trauma therapy. Remember, a fully trained EMDR therapist has done over 50 hours of training and consultation with an EMDRIA-approved consultant. No app can do that. So, if you come across claims of 'self-EMDR' apps, it's best to approach them with caution.
Online EMDR: The Trauma Therapy Frontier
In a world that's rapidly evolving, the effectiveness of online EMDR therapy shines bright. It's not just a temporary workaround; it's a legitimate pathway to healing. Online EMDR is here to stay and make a real impact.
So, next time someone asks if online EMDR is legit, you can confidently nod and share what you've learned. The digital revolution in trauma therapy is in full swing, and EMDR is at the heart of it. Online EMDR therapy is a beacon of hope and healing, proving that the power of connection and recovery knows no bounds—even in the virtual world.
