Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach initially developed in the 1980s to help individuals process traumatic memories and reduce their psychological impact.
Traditionally, EMDR therapy unfolds over weeks or months in standard, hour-long sessions, making it a gradual but highly effective treatment for trauma, PTSD, anxiety, and even depression.
However, an emerging method—EMDR Intensive Treatment—promises faster and sometimes even more profound results by condensing treatment into a shorter, more focused timeframe.
But how does EMDR Intensive differ from standard EMDR treatment, and who can benefit most from this approach?
What is Standard EMDR Treatment?
Standard EMDR is usually delivered in 50–60 minute sessions on a weekly basis. During these sessions, therapists guide clients through the reprocessing of traumatic memories using a structured eight-phase protocol. A core part of EMDR is bilateral stimulation, often in the form of eye movements triggered by following the therapist’s hand as it moves from side to side.
This activity is designed to help the brain reprocess disturbing memories, making them less emotionally charged. The result is that, over time, clients experience relief from the intense emotions and reactions linked to traumatic memories.
This gradual pacing allows the brain and nervous system time to adjust, which can be particularly beneficial for those with complex trauma or multiple traumatic experiences. However, for some individuals, the slow pacing of standard EMDR can be a drawback, particularly if they’re facing ongoing trauma or have limited availability for weekly therapy.
What is EMDR Intensive Treatment?
EMDR Intensive Treatment compresses the therapeutic work typically done over a few months into a shorter, more concentrated period. This “intensive” approach involves extended sessions that can last for 90 minutes. With this approach, clients may complete a full course of EMDR therapy in a matter of 2 weeks rather than 2 months.
EMDR intensives are carefully structured to maintain safety and comfort. The therapist assesses the client’s readiness and develops a personalized treatment plan. Breaks are included throughout the sessions, and clients are taught grounding techniques to help manage emotions between sessions.
How Does EMDR Intensive Treatment Differ from Standard EMDR?
The key differences between EMDR Intensive and standard EMDR are in the session structure, timeline, and intensity. Here’s a closer look:
- Duration and Frequency: Standard EMDR occurs weekly, while EMDR Intensive Treatment packs extended sessions into consecutive days. This concentrated format can sometimes achieve results faster, which may be ideal for clients seeking immediate relief or those with a tight schedule.
- Focus and Immersion: EMDR intensives provide an immersive therapeutic experience, allowing clients to deeply engage with their healing process. For some, this continuous focus reduces the chance of emotional disruptions between sessions, as there’s less time between treatments.
- Emotional Impact: Because EMDR Intensive Treatment is more condensed, it can feel emotionally intense. However, clients often find that they can experience significant breakthroughs quickly, reducing the need to relive trauma over weeks or months.
Who Benefits Most from EMDR Intensive?
EMDR Intensive Treatment may be particularly beneficial for people who need rapid relief from trauma symptoms, including those with recent trauma, first responders, or individuals experiencing significant life transitions. Additionally, those who have limited availability for therapy due to work, family, or geographical constraints may also find intensives appealing.
Is EMDR Intensive Right for You?
While EMDR Intensive treatment can be powerful, it’s not the right fit for everyone. Some may feel overwhelmed by the intense nature of back-to-back sessions, and for people with complex trauma or high emotional sensitivity, the standard EMDR approach might provide a safer, more gradual path.
In summary, EMDR Intensive Treatment offers a fast-track option to healing, providing similar benefits to standard EMDR in a more condensed and immersive format. It holds promise for many individuals, but consulting with a qualified EMDR therapist is crucial to determine the best approach for your unique needs. Medicare rebates for EMDR treatment, both intensive and standard, are available if you are eligible for a Mental Health Care Plans prepared by your GP.
At Ahead Psychology we have a qualified EMDR Intensive therapist, so if you are interested to see if this approach might work for you please complete the EMDR Intensive Program Booking Form.