How Does Online EMDR Therapy Actually Work? A Clear Guide to Virtual EMDR
- Grow Gently Counselling
- Mar 18
- 3 min read
Have you heard about EMDR therapy but wondered how it could possibly work online? You're not alone! Online EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is gaining popularity across Australia due to its convenience, accessibility, and effectiveness.
This clear, practical guide will help you understand exactly what virtual EMDR therapy is, how it works, and whether it's the right choice for you.
What Is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR, or Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing, is an evidence-based therapy helping people recover from trauma, anxiety, depression, phobias, and more. It works by using bilateral stimulation—eye movements, sounds, or gentle tapping—to help your brain naturally process and heal distressing memories.
How Does Online EMDR Therapy Work?
Online EMDR therapy closely mirrors traditional face-to-face sessions with just a few practical adjustments to suit the virtual environment. You can expect:
Preparation and Assessment: You'll discuss your therapy goals and background with your therapist online.
Bilateral Stimulation Techniques:
Eye Movements: Your therapist uses visual software (such as a moving dot or ball) on your screen.
Auditory Stimulation: You'll wear headphones to hear alternating sounds or tones.
Self-Tapping: Your therapist guides you through gentle self-tapping techniques (such as tapping your shoulders or knees).
Processing and Closure: Your therapist helps you safely work through and resolve distressing memories, ensuring you're comfortable throughout.
Initially, online EMDR might feel different, but clients quickly adapt and often appreciate doing therapy from the comfort of their home.
Is Online EMDR as Effective as Face-to-Face Therapy?
Yes—studies confirm that online EMDR therapy achieves results as effectively as traditional sessions. EMDR's structured and targeted approach is ideally suited for virtual delivery, helping clients experience significant emotional healing and improvement, often within just a few sessions.
Benefits of Choosing Online EMDR
Online EMDR therapy offers several clear benefits:
Greater Flexibility: Participate from any private, comfortable location.
Enhanced Convenience: Easily schedule sessions around your daily routine without commuting.
Comfort and Safety: Feel more relaxed and secure processing sensitive issues in your own space.
Expanded Therapist Options: Choose from therapists Australia-wide, increasing your chances of finding the perfect match.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How Long Does EMDR Therapy Typically Last?
Most clients notice positive changes within 1–3 sessions. Full EMDR treatment typically ranges from 6–12 sessions, depending on individual needs and therapy goals.
What Mental Health Issues Can EMDR Treat?
EMDR effectively helps with anxiety, PTSD, depression, phobias, panic attacks, chronic pain, trauma, and more.
Does Medicare Cover Online EMDR Therapy?
Medicare rebates apply if you have a valid Mental Health Treatment Plan from your GP. Currently, Grow Gently Counselling does not offer Medicare rebates.
Can I Switch to Face-to-Face EMDR Later?
Absolutely. Your therapist will support you if you decide to transition, subject to face-to-face appointment availability.
About Grow Gently Counselling
Grow Gently Counselling specialises in comfortable, effective online EMDR therapy tailored to your individual needs. Our therapists are fully qualified and experienced in EMDR, providing professional, supportive care, particularly for anxiety, trauma, and related issues.
To book your first session, simply reach out to us—we'll help you get started easily.
Ready to Begin Your EMDR Journey?
Online EMDR therapy might initially seem unfamiliar, but it's highly effective, convenient, and accessible. It could be exactly what you need to move forward on your path toward emotional healing.
Why wait? Contact Grow Gently Counselling today and take your first step toward wellbeing.
References
EMDR Association of Australia. (2022). Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing. Retrieved from https://emdraa.org.
Lenferink, L. I. M., Meyerbröker, K., & Boelen, P. A. (2020). Effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing delivered via video-conferencing. European Journal of Psychotraumatology, 11(1), 1-10.
Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.
Strelchuk, D., Turner, K., Smith, S., Bisson, J., Wiles, N., & Zammit, S. (2023). Provision of online eye movement and desensitisation therapy (EMDR) for people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD): a multi-method service evaluation. European journal of psychotraumatology, 14(2), 2281182.
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