EMDR Intensives vs Weekly EMDR Sessions

Now, I know what you’re thinking. What exactly is an EMDR intensive, and how is that any different from my regularly scheduled therapy appointment? How might that help me?

EMDR intensives offer you the opportunity to expedite your healing process. You get the ability to fully work on your trauma, negative beliefs, symptoms, and stressors within a half-day, full-day, or numerous consecutive days. With your regular scheduled sessions, your healing happens over the course of weeks. 

I know that can feel intimidating at first. The intensives may feel exhausting at the beginning, but as we progress through them, it tends to become easier on you. Doing an intensive also means that you will not have to deal with much of the haunting feelings of trauma week after week. In a way, it’s like ripping a band-aid off after your cut has fully healed instead of constantly changing out that bandage. 

Weekly sessions have their place as well. Studies have shown that consecutive days of intensives have the same amount of healing as one would with months of therapy. If this format of healing works better for you and your schedule, weekly sessions could be a good option for you. I often like to think of intensives in the same regard as a wellness retreat. If you can spend that time, that’s great! If you can’t, that’s okay too. Some people like the idea of weekly/biweekly sessions, as it allows them to regulate themselves with their stressors in a way that works for them.

I think it’s also important to remember that the format doesn’t have to be one OR the other. You can receive an extended EMDR session or intensive while continuing to see your regular therapist. Whatever you decide is best for you and your journey, we’re happy to help get you there. If you have any questions or would like more information on EMDR intensives, please feel free to sign up for a free consultation with me.

Written by Lacey Lemaster, M.Ed., LPC