Question 1

What is an EMDR intensive?

Accepted Answer

An EMDR intensive is a concentrated extended therapy session — typically four hours of active EMDR therapy with a one-hour break — rather than the standard 50-minute weekly format. It allows for deeper, more sustained processing of a specific traumatic memory or experience in a single session.

Question 2

Do I need to have done EMDR before to do an intensive?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily, but you do need a baseline level of nervous system stabilization. EMDR intensives are generally not recommended for people who are brand new to any therapy. This is assessed together in a preparation conversation before scheduling.

Question 3

Is an EMDR intensive available virtually in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Yes. EMDR intensives at Marlo Drago Therapy are fully virtual and available to clients across Ontario. Bilateral stimulation is adapted for virtual delivery.

Question 4

How much does an EMDR intensive cost?

Accepted Answer

$1,300 per session. This covers four hours of active therapy plus a one-hour break and integration support. Extended health benefits that cover RSW services may apply — check your plan.

Question 5

How is an EMDR intensive different from regular weekly therapy?

Accepted Answer

Weekly therapy is gradual and consistent — 50 minutes a week, building over time. An intensive compresses the work into one extended session, which is particularly useful for working through a specific, bounded traumatic event, breaking through a plateau, or making significant progress when weekly scheduling is not practical.

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