A safer, more efficient format for deep work. Make more progress in a shorter amount of time compared to traditional weekly therapy sessions.
The traditional model of psychotherapy usually involves weekly, 50ish-minute sessions. That's fine for supportive "talk therapy", but not so great for deep trauma-related work. It always seems like it's time to wrap up just as we're really starting to get into it. It is extremely difficult to safely complete an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) session in 50 minutes.
Enter the EMDR Intensive.
Intensive EMDR therapy involves sessions that are between 90 minutes and four hours long. They can be scheduled for several consecutive days, making them ideal for clients who live farther away. This intensive format allows you to make more progress in a shorter amount of time, compared to traditional weekly therapy sessions. It can also be particularly helpful for individuals who have experienced complex trauma or have been struggling with symptoms for an extended period. However, it is important to note that EMDR intensives may not be suitable for everyone.
There are a few reasons why longer sessions for EMDR therapy might be preferred or recommended:
- Increased efficiency and faster results: Longer sessions enable us to accomplish more during each session, making the therapy process more efficient.This can result in faster and more significant improvement.
- Deeper processing: Longer sessions may allow for deeper processing and exploration of traumatic experiences and associated emotions. This can be helpful for clients who have experienced complex or multiple traumas, as well as those who have difficulty accessing or processing their emotions.
- Enhanced safety: EMDR can be a powerful therapeutic approach that can bring up intense emotions and memories. Longer sessions may allow for additional support and resources to help you feel safe and regulated throughout the therapy process.
- Better integration: EMDR involves processing past traumatic experiences and integrating them into your overall narrative and understanding of yourself. Longer sessions may allow for more comprehensive processing and integration of these experiences, leading to a more complete and lasting resolution of symptoms.
The length and structure of each EMDR intensive will be be tailored to your needs and goals, as well as available resources. The cost of intensive EMDR therapy (see Fees) can be a significant investment, but it may be worth considering for those who are seeking a more concentrated and focused approach to trauma therapy.