EMDR(Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a well‑established therapy for trauma and related difficulties. Traditionally, EMDR has been delivered face‑to‑face in a therapy room, but in recent years many therapists have begun offering EMDR online. Understandably, people often wonder whether EMDR can work just as well when delivered remotely.
In this post, I’ll explain how EMDR therapy can be adapted for online sessions, what the research says, and what you might expect if you’re considering this option. My aim is to give you clear, practical information so you can decide whether online EMDR feels right for you.
How EMDR Therapy is Adapted for Online Sessions
EMDR follows a structured approach, with assessment and preparation taking place before any processing begins (you can read more about this in my overview of the 8 phases of EMDR). These early stages translate well to online therapy, as they involve talking through your history, identifying target memories, and building resources to support you during processing.
When it comes to the processing stage, EMDR requires bilateral stimulation — traditionally achieved through eye movements, taps, or sounds. Online, this can be adapted in different ways. Some practitioners use specialist software that guides eye movements on screen. Personally, I often use bilateral tapping, where clients tap alternately on each side of their body. I find this method helps clients maintain a strong connection both with the memory they are working on and with me during the session.
The key point is that EMDR can be flexibly adapted for online delivery, while still following the same structured phases and maintaining therapeutic effectiveness.
Advantages of Online EMDR Therapy
One of the most important aspects of EMDR is maintaining regular weekly sessions during the processing stage. This consistency allows us to work effectively with the target memory and move through the therapy in a structured way. For many people, travelling to a face‑to‑face appointment every week can be a significant time commitment. In my experience, online sessions make this much more feasible — often fitting in at the end of the working day without the added stress of commuting.
Another major advantage of online EMDR is that it widens the pool of therapists available to you. Rather than being limited to practitioners within travelling distance, you can access therapists with the right expertise wherever they are based. This flexibility means you’re more likely to find someone whose skills and approach are the best fit for your needs.
Considerations for Online EMDR Therapy
While online EMDR offers clear advantages, there are also some practical points to think about. Privacy is important — you’ll need a quiet, uninterrupted space where you feel safe to focus on the therapy. Technical setup matters too: a stable internet connection, a device with a camera, and knowing how to use the platform we meet on all help sessions run smoothly.
It’s also worth remembering that EMDR can be emotionally demanding, especially during the processing stage. Some clients ask whether it’s okay to do their session from a private office at work. I usually advise against this, as it can be very difficult to connect with a difficult memory when you’re in a work environment. A space that feels personal and secure is much more supportive for this kind of therapy.
These challenges aren’t barriers, but they are factors to plan for. With the right preparation, online EMDR can be just as effective as face‑to‑face sessions.
What the Research Says About Online EMDR
Research into online EMDR is encouraging. A UK‑based service evaluation found that clients experienced positive outcomes when EMDR was delivered remotely, concluding that online EMDR is both effective and sustainable as a way of working. This is supported by a research trial which compared face‑to‑face EMDR with a web‑based version for people with generalized anxiety disorder. The study showed significant improvements in both groups, suggesting that online EMDR can be just as effective as traditional in‑person sessions. Together, these findings highlight that online EMDR is a credible option, provided the therapy follows the same structured phases and is delivered by a trained practitioner.
Final Thoughts
EMDR therapy can be adapted very effectively for online sessions. With careful preparation, a private space, and regular weekly appointments, online EMDR offers both flexibility and accessibility while maintaining the structured approach that makes the therapy so effective. Research supports its use, and many clients find that online sessions fit more easily into their lives without compromising the depth of the work.
If you’d like to explore EMDR in more detail, including how it works and what to expect, you can read my longer guide: Everything You Need to Know About EMDR.