What to Expect in Online EMDR Therapy (and Do You Even Need It?)

EMDROnline Therapy
Written By Jessica Improta

You’ve probably heard about EMDR — maybe from a podcast, your best friend, or a quick Google search after a sleepless night. It sounds intense. Eye movements? Trauma processing? Do I even need this?

Let’s slow it down.

As an online therapist trained in EMDR, I hear this all the time:

“I don’t think I’ve had big trauma, but I’ve been through stuff…”
“Would EMDR even work on me?”
“Is it weird to do it online?”

Here’s the truth: EMDR can be incredibly effective — even if your trauma doesn’t look dramatic, even if you’re high-functioning, and yes, even online.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapy technique that helps your brain reprocess painful memories so they stop hijacking your nervous system. It’s less about talking about the pain, and more about helping your body and brain let go of the stuckness.

EMDR is often used for:

  • Childhood emotional neglect

  • Breakups or betrayal

  • Chronic anxiety or perfectionism

  • Feeling "not good enough," even when life looks fine on the outside

Can EMDR Be Done Online?

Yes — and it works. You don’t need to be in the same room for EMDR to be effective.

In online sessions, we use tools like:

  • Bilateral tapping (you tap your own shoulders or knees)

  • Eye movements using a dot that moves across your screen

  • Alternating tones or vibration devices, if preferred

You’re still fully in control. You’re still grounded. And you can do all of it from the comfort and privacy of your own space.

Do You Need EMDR?

Maybe. Maybe not.

Some clients come in for EMDR but end up just needing a safe space to talk, process, and reconnect with themselves. Others say:

“I thought I was just anxious, but turns out I had unprocessed experiences that EMDR really helped unlock.”

There’s no pressure to “do it right.” We’ll talk about your goals and figure out together whether EMDR is the best fit for you.

You're Not Too "Mild" for EMDR

You don’t need a capital-T trauma to benefit. You just need:

  • A little curiosity

  • A willingness to explore

  • And a therapist who meets you where you are (not pushes you where you’re not ready to go)

Ready to Take the First Step?

Whether you’re curious about EMDR or just looking for a warm, grounded space to talk — I’d love to connect.

👉 Schedule a free 15-minute consult here
Or learn more about how I work

Jessica Improta
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