What is EMDR
So...then what is an EMDR Intensive
An EMDR Intensive consists of extended therapy sessions, typically 3 to 5 hours per day over several consecutive days. This concentrated format allows for deeper, faster processing of trauma and related emotions, often leading to significant progress in a shorter time frame. A 15 hour session could equal or exceed the impact of six months of weekly sessions!
Throughout the intensive, you’ll engage in multiple rounds of EMDR with scheduled breaks, supported by relaxation and grounding techniques to manage emotions. This method is especially beneficial for those with limited time or complex trauma histories, offering accelerated healing and long-lasting change. However, it should be pursued with a certified EMDR therapist.
Post-intensive, it’s common to feel emotionally spent or experience an emotional release as your mind continues processing. Prioritizing self-care and staying in communication with your therapist is essential during this time.
Why choose EMDR Intensives?
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Accelerated Progress
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Efficiency
• Rapid Results: EMDR intensives are designed to deliver significant therapeutic progress in a shorter timeframe compared to traditional weekly sessions. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals who need immediate relief from their symptoms.
• Focused Work: Intensive sessions allow for deep and sustained focus on specific issues, which can lead to more effective processing of traumatic memories and quicker resolution of symptoms.
• Time-Saving: For those with busy schedules or those who are unable to commit to regular weekly therapy, intensives provide a more efficient way to receive treatment.
• Fewer Disruptions: Intensive therapy reduces the number of transitions between daily life and therapy sessions, allowing for a more immersive therapeutic experience.
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In-depth Processing
• Comprehensive Approach: Intensives offer the opportunity to address multiple layers of trauma and related issues in a cohesive and uninterrupted manner.
• Continuous Support: With extended sessions, clients receive continuous support from their therapist, which can enhance the therapeutic relationship and provide a greater sense of safety and trust.
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Tailored to Individual Needs
• Customized Treatment: Each intensive session is tailored to meet the unique needs of the client, ensuring that the therapy is relevant and effective.
• Flexible Scheduling: Intensives can be scheduled over a few days or weeks, offering flexibility to fit into the client’s lifestyle and availability.
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Continuity and Integration
• Consistent Progress: Intensive sessions reduce the gap between sessions, helping to maintain momentum and continuity in the therapeutic process.
• Integration Time: Following an intensive, clients often have time to integrate the work done, which can lead to deeper insights and lasting change.
The Research
Research on EMDR intensives shows substantial benefits for reducing trauma symptoms, particularly in cases of PTSD. One study found that after a five-day intensive program, participants showed significant symptom reduction, with some no longer meeting PTSD criteria after 21 days (Mendez et al., 2018). Similarly, EMDR intensives for adolescent refugees led to decreased PTSD, anxiety, and depression symptoms after just two days of group sessions (Smyth-Dent et al., 2019). These findings highlight the accelerated healing process made possible by EMDR intensives.
Other studies underscore the effectiveness of combining EMDR with other trauma-focused therapies. In a trial where participants received both Prolonged Exposure (PE) and EMDR, those who began with PE saw better outcomes and symptom relief (Van Minnen et al., 2020). Additionally, intensive EMDR and Progressive Counting (PC) therapy produced lasting improvements in PTSD symptoms and overall quality of life, with clients seeing significant progress within two weeks to three months post-treatment (Greenwald, 2020). These results indicate that EMDR intensives can offer rapid and lasting relief from trauma-related symptoms.
Who are EMDR Intensives perfect for?
Trauma Survivors
Busy Individuals
Individuals who are looking for an adjunct to their current therapy work
Individuals feeling stagnant or stuck in therapy
Out-of-town Clients
Highly Motivated Individuals
My EMDR Intensive Process
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Free 30-Minute Consultation: We’ll discuss your goals, the process, and costs to see if an EMDR Intensive is right for you. If we're a good fit, we'll schedule a pre-intensive session.
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Pre-Intensive Interview: We'll explore your treatment targets, assess symptoms, create a treatment plan, and schedule your Intensives.
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EMDR Intensive Workbook: A guide to help identify targets, track progress between sessions, and integrate new insights.
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Intensive Sessions: 3 to 5 hour sessions for 1 to 3 days, finished in one week or a weekend.
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Post-Intensive Interview: We’ll review your progress and discuss any next steps.
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Session Format: All sessions are via Telehealth. Attention is given to self-care and providing a comfortable environment. Look for a gift in the mail from me to help you achieve this!