What is an EMDR intensive?

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.

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

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.

Is an EMDR intensive available virtually in Ontario?

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

How much does an EMDR intensive cost?

$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.

How is an EMDR intensive different from regular weekly therapy?

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.

Understanding EMDR Therapy: A Compassionate Approach

Marlo Drago

Aug 6

4 min read

Trauma can leave deep emotional scars that affect individuals long after the event has passed. Many people struggle with anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues as a result of unresolved trauma. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has emerged as a powerful tool for healing these wounds. This blog post will explore the principles of EMDR therapy, how it works, and its effectiveness in treating trauma.

Eye-level view of a serene therapy room with calming decor

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is a structured psychotherapy approach that helps individuals process and heal from traumatic memories. Developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s, EMDR is based on the idea that traumatic experiences can become "stuck" in the brain, leading to distressing symptoms. The therapy aims to reprocess these memories, allowing individuals to integrate them into their life narratives.

The Eight Phases of EMDR

EMDR therapy consists of eight distinct phases:

History Taking: The therapist gathers information about the client's history and identifies specific traumatic memories to target during therapy.
Preparation: The therapist explains the EMDR process and establishes a safe environment for the client. Coping strategies are also introduced.
Assessment: The therapist helps the client identify negative beliefs associated with the traumatic memory and establishes a positive belief to replace it.
Desensitization: The client focuses on the traumatic memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements. This phase aims to reduce the emotional charge of the memory.
Installation: The therapist encourages the client to focus on the positive belief they want to adopt, reinforcing it through bilateral stimulation.
Body Scan: The client is guided to identify any physical sensations related to the memory, allowing for further processing and release of tension.
Closure: The therapist helps the client return to a state of equilibrium, ensuring they feel safe and grounded before leaving the session.
Re-evaluation: In subsequent sessions, the therapist assesses the client's progress and addresses any remaining issues related to the traumatic memory.

How Does EMDR Work?

The exact mechanisms behind EMDR therapy are still being studied, but several theories exist. One prominent theory suggests that the bilateral stimulation used in EMDR mimics the brain's natural processing mechanisms during REM sleep. This stimulation may help the brain reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional intensity and allowing for healthier integration.

The Role of Bilateral Stimulation

Bilateral stimulation can take various forms, including:

Eye Movements: The most common method, where the client follows the therapist's fingers moving back and forth.
Tactile Stimulation: The use of taps on the hands or knees.
Auditory Stimulation: Alternating sounds played through headphones.

Each method aims to engage both hemispheres of the brain, facilitating the processing of traumatic memories.

Effectiveness of EMDR Therapy

Numerous studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of EMDR therapy in treating trauma-related disorders, including Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Research indicates that EMDR can lead to significant reductions in symptoms, often in fewer sessions than traditional talk therapies.

Evidence-Based Research

A meta-analysis published in the Journal of Traumatic Stress found that EMDR is as effective as other trauma-focused therapies, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT).
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes EMDR as a recommended treatment for PTSD, highlighting its efficacy in clinical settings.

Client Testimonials

Many individuals who have undergone EMDR therapy report profound changes in their emotional well-being. For example, a client named Sarah shared her experience:

"After years of struggling with anxiety and flashbacks from a traumatic event, EMDR helped me process my memories in a way I never thought possible. I feel lighter and more in control of my life."

Who Can Benefit from EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including:

Survivors of Trauma: Those who have experienced physical, emotional, or sexual abuse.
Veterans: Individuals dealing with combat-related PTSD.
Accident Victims: People who have experienced traumatic events, such as car accidents or natural disasters.
First Responders: Professionals exposed to traumatic situations in the line of duty.

Considerations Before Starting EMDR

While EMDR can be beneficial, it may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain conditions, such as severe dissociation or active substance abuse, may need to address these issues before engaging in EMDR therapy. Consulting with a qualified mental health professional is essential to determine the best course of action.

The Compassionate Approach of EMDR

One of the most significant aspects of EMDR therapy is its compassionate approach. Therapists create a safe and supportive environment, allowing clients to explore their emotions without judgment. This nurturing atmosphere fosters trust, enabling clients to confront their trauma at their own pace.

Building a Therapeutic Alliance

The relationship between the therapist and client is crucial in EMDR therapy. A strong therapeutic alliance can enhance the effectiveness of the treatment. Therapists often use empathy, active listening, and validation to create a space where clients feel understood and supported.

EMDR in Practice: A Session Overview

Understanding what to expect during an EMDR session can help alleviate anxiety for those considering this therapy. Here's a brief overview of a typical session:

Check-In: The therapist begins by checking in with the client, discussing any changes since the last session.
Target Memory: The client identifies a specific memory to work on, discussing its emotional impact.
Bilateral Stimulation: The therapist guides the client through the desensitization phase, using bilateral stimulation while the client focuses on the memory.
Processing: The therapist encourages the client to share their thoughts and feelings as they process the memory.
Closure: The session concludes with grounding techniques to ensure the client feels safe and stable.

EMDR Therapy and Self-Care

Engaging in EMDR therapy can be emotionally taxing, and self-care is essential during this process. Here are some self-care strategies to consider:

Journaling: Writing about your thoughts and feelings can help process emotions between sessions.
Mindfulness Practices: Techniques such as meditation or deep breathing can promote relaxation and grounding.
Support Networks: Connecting with friends, family, or support groups can provide additional emotional support.

Conclusion

EMDR therapy offers a compassionate and effective approach to healing trauma. By helping individuals process and integrate their traumatic memories, EMDR can lead to profound changes in emotional well-being. If you or someone you know is struggling with the effects of trauma, consider exploring EMDR therapy as a potential path to healing. Remember, seeking help is a courageous step toward reclaiming your life.

For those interested in learning more about EMDR therapy, reaching out to a qualified mental health professional can provide valuable insights and guidance. Take the first step toward healing today.