Kimberly Keiser and Associates

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How to Use EMDR for Tele-Health Therapy [Practice 11]

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a very useful and effective therapy to help people process and heal from current or past traumatic experiences. Our therapists have been using EMDR to help our clients deal with anxiety, depression, and trauma for years.

Did you know EMDR therapy can actually be done virtually as well?

During this time of COVID-19, we are adapting in creative ways to help our clients achieve the mental health they desire. Here’s why and how we are using EMDR therapy in our tele-health counseling sessions.

Pros and Cons of EMDR Therapy for Tele-Health

There can be concerns when considering using EMDR therapy over tele-health, such as maintaining a level of safety and security, developing a strong attunement between the therapist and the client, and making sure the client stays within their window of tolerance of emotion.

However, EMDR through tele-health counseling services is still very effective when using some modifications to adapt to this changing environment of social distancing.

In an online EMDR session, the therapist teaches special techniques to help the client feel secure and comfortable in their physical space during the session. Together, they also spend time developing and strengthening positive resources to aid with emotion management.

How EMDR Therapy Works Online

EMDR is widely known for its use of eye movements to help process traumas, which can be difficult to do in a tele-health environment.

EMDR for tele-health uses a range of engaging and client-centered movements that can be done with or without video. The therapist works closely with the client to develop a treatment plan, which includes a continuum of processing that helps to maintain the attunement between the client and therapist and keeps the level of emotion at a manageable level.  

Learn More About Tele-Health Therapy

EMDR is a difficult concept to understand on its own, let alone when applied to tele-health counseling.

We’re here to help break it down for you. Contact our team to learn more about EMDR, tele-health counseling, or any of our other therapy services at Kimberly Keiser & Associates.