EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a trauma-focused therapy designed to help individuals resolve past trauma which is triggering intense emotional reactions in the present. Trauma can disrupt the brain’s natural healing processes leading to symptoms of anxiety, depression and PTSD. EMDR helps by using bilateral stimulation often through guided eye movements, while the […]
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a trauma-focused therapy designed to help individuals resolve past trauma which is triggering intense emotional reactions in the present.
Trauma can disrupt the brain’s natural healing processes leading to symptoms of anxiety, depression and PTSD. EMDR helps by using bilateral stimulation often through guided eye movements, while the client focuses on a distressing memory. This process facilitates the brain’s ability to integrate the traumatic memory reducing its emotional impact. While the memory remains after EMDR treatment, its emotional charge is diminished, allowing individuals to recall the event without being overwhelmed.
EMDR effectively addresses the root cause of trauma rather than just managing symptoms. It is recognised and endorsed by international mental health organisations (World Health Organisation, the American Psychiatric Association, and Phoenix (The Australian Centre for Posttraumatic Mental Health)) as a highly effective trauma treatment.
The increasing shift to EMDR online therapy
The COVID 19 pandemic profoundly reshaped the landscape of mental health care, accelerating the adoption of online therapy as a standard therapeutic practice. Since that time, online therapy has emerged as a powerful and accessible solution, offering convenience, flexibility, and privacy.
Digital platforms now provide a wide range of support services, breaking down barriers for people in remote areas or with busy schedules. As the world continues to change, online therapy is helping to redefine how, and where, we take care of our mental health.
Does EMDR work online?
Research increasingly supports the effectiveness of Online EMDR therapy for treating trauma related conditions. A sample of this research is outlined below:
The Multisite Retrospective Review study published in Psychological Trauma: Theory, Research, Practice, and Policy in 2025, evaluated the effectiveness of EMDR among veterans and compared outcomes between in-person and telehealth modalities. The findings indicated that EMDR therapy delivered via telehealth was effective in reducing PTSD symptoms, with no significant difference in outcomes compared to in-person therapy. emdria.org emdria.org
A review titled “Effectiveness of digital interventions that are available for healthcare professionals who experience psychological trauma: A systematic literature review” published in 2025 in the British Journal of Psychotherapy Open concluded that digital EMDR interventions could be effective in reducing trauma-related symptoms among healthcare workers.emdria.org+1emdria.org+1
A 2021 service evaluation by McGowan, Fisher, Havens, and Proudlock, published in November 2021 in BMC Psychiatry involved 93 clients treated remotely during the COVID 19 pandemic. It found significant reductions in PTSD, anxiety, and depression symptoms, with no difference in outcomes based on therapist experience. francineshapirolibrary.omeka.net+2bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com+2pure.qub.ac.uk+2
Similarly, a randomized controlled trial by Lenferink et al. (2021) demonstrated that video-based EMDR significantly reduced PTSD symptoms, showing no statistical difference from in-person treatment. .bmcpsychiatry.biomedcentral.com+1etq.emdrassociation.org.uk+1philipbrucetherapy.co.uk
A 2020 study published in Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy found that virtual EMDR therapy maintained a strong therapeutic alliance, with many clients reporting increased comfort and deeper engagement in their own environments. thetherapistaz.com
Another 2020 study published in the Journal of EMDR Practice and Research reported that online EMDR was effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression among healthcare workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. emdronlinetools.com+1mythrivepsychology.com+1
Collectively, these studies support online EMDR therapy as a viable and effective treatment option for individuals experiencing trauma-related mental health issues which is why, since the pandemic, online EMDR therapy has become routine for EMDR therapist and their clients provided the therapeutic alliance is strong and technology is reliable.
How online EMDR works
Online EMDR therapy functions similarly to in-person sessions, following the same structured eight-phase protocol developed by Francine Shapiro. The core mechanism being bilateral stimulation (BLS), typically through eye movements, taps, or auditory tones adapted for remote use. For example, therapists may guide client eyes in side to side movements using a wand or two fingers or alternatively, using a moving object on their screen (like a light bar or dot). In some cases, clients may self-administer tactile BLS (e.g. tapping their knees or shoulders) under the therapist’s guidance.
The therapeutic process remains centred on identifying and reprocessing traumatic memories by helping the brain “digest” unprocessed material stored in the nervous system. As with in-person EMDR, the goal is to reduce emotional distress and shift negative beliefs into more adaptive ones. Therapists also ensure that clients are emotionally grounded and safe through preparatory techniques and coping strategies, especially important in a remote setting. Research indicates that when properly adapted, online EMDR can be just as effective as face-to-face sessions.
Benefits of online EMDR
One of the key benefits of online EMDR is accessibility, clients can connect with a qualified therapist from virtually anywhere in Australia, including rural or remote areas where mental health services may be limited. This increased access helps reduce barriers to care particularly for those who might struggle with travel, mobility, or finding local specialists trained in EMDR. It also means clients can choose a therapist who best suits their needs, rather than being restricted to local options.
Another advantage is the comfort and privacy of engaging in therapy from home. Many people feel more at ease in familiar surroundings, which can help them open up more readily and feel safer during emotionally intense sessions. Additionally, online therapy tends to offer greater flexibility in scheduling, making it easier to fit sessions around work, family commitments or other responsibilities. This convenience can improve consistency and commitment to the therapeutic process, which is especially important for trauma work.
Online EMDR right for you?
Online EMDR can be an excellent option for individuals dealing with anxiety, trauma, PTSD, and other distressing life experiences. It follows the same evidence-based structure as in-person EMDR and is particularly effective for people who feel comfortable using technology, have reliable internet and a private, quiet space for sessions. Many clients find that working through difficult memories in their own home environment can enhance their sense of safety and control which supports the therapeutic process. For those with busy schedules or limited access to local mental health services, online EMDR offers a flexible and convenient alternative without compromising the quality of care.
However, in-person EMDR may be preferred in certain situations. For example, if someone does not have a private or emotionally safe space at home, or if they have unreliable internet or feel uneasy using technology, face-to-face sessions might provide a more grounded and contained environment. In-person therapy can also be helpful for clients who need more intensive support with emotional regulation or who are working through particularly complex trauma. Ultimately, the decision between online and in-person EMDR should be made collaboratively between the client and therapist, based on individual needs, preferences, and circumstances.
Tips for a successful online EMDR session
To get the most out of your online EMDR sessions, it’s important to prepare your environment.
Start by finding a quiet, private space where you feel safe and won’t be interrupted. This allows you to focus fully on the process and express yourself freely without concern for being overheard or distracted.
A good internet connection is also essential, technical glitches can disrupt the flow of therapy, especially during moments of emotional processing.
Using headphones with a microphone can help improve sound quality and increase your sense of privacy.
Equally important is maintaining open and honest communication with your therapist. Let us know how you’re feeling before, during, and after each session, especially if you’re feeling overwhelmed or disconnected. If something isn’t working, whether it’s the type of bilateral stimulation being used or a tech issue, it’s okay to speak up. Your therapist can adjust the session to better suit your needs.
Online EMDR can be highly effective, but like any therapy, its success depends on a strong therapeutic relationship and a setting that supports emotional safety and focus.
Client reassurance & next steps
It’s completely normal to feel unsure or even a bit nervous about starting EMDR, especially in an online setting. Many people have questions or concerns before their first session—whether it’s about how the process works, whether it will be emotionally intense, or if online therapy can really be effective. These feelings are a natural part of beginning something new, particularly when it involves healing from past experiences. The important thing to remember is that EMDR is a collaborative and paced process, and we will work closely with you to ensure you feel safe, supported, and in control throughout.
If you’re curious about whether online EMDR is right for you, you’re warmly invited to reach out. A brief conversation can help answer any questions, explore your specific needs, and determine whether this approach feels like a good fit. There’s no pressure, just an open space to explore your options and see what might best support your well-being.
