Ten tips to get the most out of your online EMDR sessions
EMDR is an effective therapy for the treatment of trauma and PTSD and can be facilitated via video streaming. To get the most out of your online EMDR session it is important to prepare yourself and your space for the therapeutic work. These practical tips will help you to prepare for EMDR sessions so you will receive the maximum benefit from your therapy sessions. You can download the free EMDR telehealth checklist here.
1.Find a quiet and private room
Find a quiet private space in your home, other than the room where you normally relax and recharge. It should be a neutral space where it wouldn’t be a big, deal if you associate that room with painful and traumatic memories. Communicate to your family that you don't want to be disturb in the next hour and put a do not disturb sign on the door as a reminder. The room should be spacious enough to do stretches or big body movements like stretching and walking in one place.
2. Soundproof the room
Soundproof the room by either using a noisemaker or playing soft music outside the room.
3. Make it cozy
Create your own therapeutic space by adding a blanket, water, candles, essential oils and most importantly, Kleenex.
4. Use a computer instead of your phone
A cell phone might be appropriate for talk therapy, but you will need a bigger screen to follow the eye movements. A standard laptop screen of 14-15 inches is sufficient.
5. Position the computer screen
at eye level
A screen that is too high or too low put unnecessary strain on your eyes which can lead to headaches. Place your device on a steady surface with the screen at eye level. Use a stack of books or an adjustable laptop or monitor stand. Your hands should be free during the session to do tapping or other body movements.
6. Camera position
Your upper body should be in the frame of the camera and visible to the therapist. Our bodies carry lots of feelings and can help the therapist to guide the session. If you don’t like to see yourself in the video, hide it or post a stick-it note over your profile picture.
7. Test your video and audio before the session
Make the most of your session time by double checking your video and audio quality before the session.
8. Internet speed
Your internet should be fast enough to handle video chat and streaming, make sure you are connected to strong WiFi or use your Ethernet cable. You can check you internet speed by running the connection test available on most telehealth platforms.
9. Arrive 5 minutes earlier
See this five minutes as short commute to your telehealth session, which will help you to get in the right mind-set for therapy. Use this five minutes to switch off your phone, take a few deep breaths and practice mindfulness.
10. The address of your physical location
It is standard protocol for therapists to ask clients’ physical location in every telehealth session; in case there is an emergency or when a wellness check is needed. This is especially important for clients who travel often, you don’t want to use your therapy time to google the hotel’s address.
Preparing your mind and physical space for online EMDR sessions are essential to create a healing environment. These ten tips serve as a guide and will help you to get the most out of your EMDR telehealth sessions.
