EMDR INTENSIVES
What is an intensive?
An EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) intensive typically refers to an extended and concentrated period of EMDR therapy sessions conducted over a short span of time, usually several consecutive days or weeks. The goal of an EMDR intensive is to accelerate the therapeutic process and provide intensive support for individuals dealing with significant trauma, PTSD (Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder), or other psychological issues.
During an EMDR intensive, a client might undergo multiple sessions per day with a trained therapist. This concentrated approach can help in processing traumatic memories more rapidly compared to traditional weekly sessions. It allows clients to delve deeply into their experiences, emotions, and cognitive restructuring in a compressed timeframe, potentially leading to faster progress and symptom relief.
Is an intensive right for you?
Perhaps you find yourself frustrated that you aren't getting over your trauma fast enough with individual therapy. Maybe you are just trying to survive between therapy sessions and you are finding that you need more care. Maybe you are constantly triggered and on edge, living in fight or flight. Or perhaps your therapist recommended this as part of your treatment plan. If this resonates with you, an EMDR intensive might be just what you need to help you along your wellness journey.
Our Intensive Structure
- The first session is an 80 minute clinical interview. This is where your psychologist will get to know more about your symptoms, family history, relationship history, medical history, etc. A discussion about your trauma and current triggers will help your clinician understand if you're a good fit for EMDR and identify any obstacles you might have to treatment.
- The second session is 4 hours (with two ten minutes breaks and an hour lunch break) The first part of this session consists of your psychologist teaching you ways in which you can regulate your nervous system. These methods will be used throughout the EMDR intensive. In the second half of the session, you will formulate a treatment plan with your therapist and begin trauma reprocessing.
- The third session is 4 hours of trauma reprocessing with bilateral stimulation.
- The final session is an 80 minute session post-EMDR to assess growth, level of distress, and future treatment.
*Additional 3-4 hour reprocessing sessions can be scheduled if mutually agreed upon by you and your provider for an added fee.
Scheduling depends on the availability of you and your psychologist. The hope is to schedule the intensive within a two week period.
Research has shown that these intensives are highly effective in treating symptoms of trauma. Reach out for a consultation to learn more.