EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is one of the most researched and effective treatments widely accepted in the field of mental health. Apart from traditional EMDR therapy sessions, some clients might be recommended to undergo an EMDR Intensive therapy program for a faster and thorough healing process. In this blog post, we will cover everything you need to know about EMDR Intensives, including what they are, why they are needed, and what you can expect during the sessions.
What is an EMDR Intensive?
EMDR Intensive is an intensive therapy program that allows clients to process past traumatic experiences more quickly by undergoing longer and more frequent EMDR therapy sessions than the regular therapy schedule. Clients usually have two sessions per day, separated by a break, over the course of several days. For clients who have experienced significant trauma, complex PTSD, or find that the traditional EMDR timeline does not work for them, EMDR Intensive can be a more effective choice to aid their healing journey.
Why do I need an EMDR Intensive?
EMDR Intensive therapy can help clients overcome the emotional impact of traumatic events, PTSD symptoms, and other negative experiences that hold them back from moving on with their lives. For those who have had a complicated history of trauma or a considerable number of traumatic incidents in their lives, an EMDR Intensive can provide a more in-depth therapeutic experience than regular therapy sessions and speed up their recovery process. Intensive treatment allows clients to focus solely on therapy sessions and work through complex issues and emotions in a safe environment with a trained and skilled therapist.
What can I expect during EMDR intensive sessions?
EMDR Intensive therapy sessions typically last between 3-6 hours daily, depending on the client’s progress and the therapist’s assessment. The sessions include standard EMDR procedures, typically a thorough assessment of the client’s personal history and relevant traumatic experiences, building coping strategies, and customization of the EMDR therapy to meet the client’s specific needs. The sessions also include the use of a light bar or headphones with bilateral sounds that aid the EMDR process. Clients can expect to experience intense emotions during the processing sessions, but the therapist will ensure that the client is stable throughout the process.
How successful is EMDR Intensive Therapy?
Like traditional EMDR therapy, the success rate of EMDR Intensive therapy is high. According to a recent study, the recovery rate for PTSD clients using EMDR intensive is 80% within 5 days, while traditional therapy sees only about 20% of clients fully recovered. That is a vast difference, and it shows how fast and effective EMDR Intensive therapy can be in aiding a client’s healing journey. Clients who undergo EMDR intensive therapy report improved quality of life, better coping mechanisms, improved communication with family and friends, and far reduced anxiety and depression.
Scheduling your EMDR Intensive
If you are struggling with past traumatic experiences that hold you back from living your life fully, EMDR Intensive could be a highly effective treatment option. It helps clients process and overcome traumatic experiences, PTSD symptoms, and other mental health challenges faster and more thoroughly than traditional therapy sessions. While sessions can be emotionally intense, EMDR Intensive therapy has proved to be highly successful in aiding clients’ long-term recovery. If you are interested in EMDR Intensive Therapy or exploring your options, don’t hesitate to reach out to a licensed EMDR therapist for guidance and support. Contact us to schedule your intensive.