EMDR intensives are a concentrated form of therapy for addressing complex trauma. In these extended sessions, clients work intensively on processing distressing memories. This format is suitable for those with limited time, a strong commitment to healing, and the guidance of a qualified EMDR therapist. It offers a comprehensive approach for more rapid resolution of traumatic issues.
In this Blog you will learn more about a form of EMDR called EMDR Intensives, allowing significant progress in a short amount of time.
Table of Contents
(click on a question to be directed quickly)
What Is Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?
What Are EMDR Intensives?
How Much Do EMDR Intensives Cost? Are EMDR Intensives Covered By Insurance?
How Do I Know If An EMDR Intensive Is Right For Me?
What Is Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach designed to help individuals process and overcome the emotional distress and psychological symptoms associated with traumatic experiences and distressing memories.
EMDR was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s and has since gained recognition and acceptance as an effective treatment for trauma-related issues, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
The core principles of EMDR involve the following steps:
- Assessment: The therapist first works with the client to assess the traumatic memories and identify the specific distressing events and associated emotions.
- Desensitization: During this phase, the therapist uses bilateral stimulation, which can involve the client’s rapid eye movements, tactile sensations, or auditory cues (like following the therapist’s finger or listening to a series of beeps). The client is asked to focus on the traumatic memory while these bilateral stimuli are applied.
- Reprocessing: While experiencing bilateral stimulation, the client is encouraged to let their mind wander and allow new thoughts, feelings, and associations to emerge. This process aims to help the client reframe and reprocess the traumatic memory, reducing its emotional charge.
- Body Scan: After reprocessing, the client and therapist check for any residual physical tension, discomfort, or negative emotions associated with the memory. Additional processing may occur if needed.
- Closure: The therapist helps the client return to a state of equilibrium and relaxation, ensuring that they are grounded and calm before ending the session.
- Reevaluation: In subsequent sessions, the therapist and client assess progress and determine whether further EMDR is needed.
EMDR is thought to facilitate the brain’s natural healing processes, allowing individuals to reprocess traumatic memories, desensitize the emotional distress, and create more adaptive and less distressing beliefs about themselves and the traumatic events.
It’s important to note that EMDR is a specialized therapeutic approach and should be administered by trained and licensed mental health professionals. It has been widely recognized for its effectiveness in reducing the symptoms associated with trauma and is often used in conjunction with other therapeutic techniques to address a wide range of trauma-related issues.
What Are EMDR Intensives?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) intensives, also known as EMDR therapy intensives or EMDR immersion, are a specialized form of EMDR therapy where clients engage in longer, more concentrated therapy sessions over a shorter period.
While traditional EMDR therapy sessions typically last about 50-90 minutes, EMDR intensives involve extended sessions, often lasting several hours, and can be conducted over multiple consecutive days or a weekend.
The purpose of EMDR intensives is to expedite the EMDR therapy process, allowing clients to work through and process traumatic memories and distressing experiences more comprehensively and rapidly.
This concentrated format can be particularly beneficial for individuals dealing with complex trauma or those who are looking for a quicker resolution of their issues.
How Much Do EMDR Intensives Cost? Are EMDR Intensives Covered By Insurance?
Not all clinics offer EMDR Intensives. Those that do will inform you that they are likely not covered by your insurances company. Insurance policies typically will cover sessions up to 53 minutes, and rarely cover more than that. Thus, to do an EMDR Intensive, clients will need to pay out-of-pocket.
The cost of EMDR Intensives can vary. Clinics will set their own prices. At ALL IN, we offer EMDR Intensives when clients sign up for a Deep Dive. A Deep Dive is a private program that offer longer sessions to clients, including EMDR Intensives. Deep Dives at ALL IN will cost between $2,500 to $3999 depending on the length of time needed and desired by the client.
Deep Dives are not religious programs. Instead, they are intensive therapeutic experiences aimed at addressing major problems quickly.
How Do I Know If An EMDR Intensive Is Right For Me?
Determining if an EMDR intensive is right for you involves careful consideration of your specific needs, goals, and circumstances. Here are some factors to consider when deciding if an EMDR intensive is a suitable choice:
- Complex Trauma: If you are dealing with complex trauma, such as multiple traumatic experiences or long-term trauma, EMDR intensives may be beneficial. The concentrated format allows for in-depth processing of these complex issues.
- Time Constraints: EMDR intensives are ideal for those who want to address their trauma and related issues more rapidly. If you have time constraints or prefer a condensed therapy format, an intensive may be a good fit.
- Therapist Recommendation: Consult with a qualified EMDR therapist or counselor. They can assess your situation, provide guidance on whether an intensive is appropriate, and recommend the best treatment approach based on your needs.
- Commitment to Healing: Assess your commitment to the healing process. EMDR intensives require a significant emotional and time investment, so it’s crucial to be fully committed to the therapeutic process.
- Support System: Consider your support system. Make sure you have a network of friends, family, or professionals who can provide emotional support during and after the intensive, as the process can be emotionally intense.
- Stability: Ensure that you are in a stable and safe environment to engage in the intensive. This includes addressing any immediate crises or safety concerns before starting the therapy.
- Therapist Qualifications: Verify the qualifications and experience of the EMDR therapist who will conduct the intensive. They should be trained and experienced in EMDR therapy and working with complex trauma.
- Realistic Expectations: Understand that EMDR intensives are not a quick fix, but a powerful tool for healing. Set realistic expectations for the process and outcomes.
- Cost and Resources: Consider the financial and logistical aspects of participating in an intensive, including any travel or accommodation expenses, if applicable.
It’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with a qualified EMDR therapist who can evaluate your specific situation and guide you in making an informed decision. They can help you determine whether an EMDR intensive is the right choice or if other therapy options may be more suitable for your unique needs.
Remember that the decision to engage in EMDR therapy, whether in an intensive format or not, should be made with the guidance of a mental health professional who can tailor the approach to your specific circumstances.
Medically Reviewed By: Dr. Kyle Zrenchik, PhD, LMFT
Published : 11/01/2023
Disclaimer: ALL IN Therapy Clinic aims to improve people’s lives. We do this through providing effective mental health counseling by passionate professionals. Inspired by this, we write content for your own education. Also, our content is researched, cited, reviewed, and edited by licensed mental health professionals. However, the information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Additionally, it should not be used in place of the advice of a qualified healthcare provider.
Filed under: Couples & Relationships by
All in therapy Clinic