How to Get Started With Online EMDR Therapy
(Tampa EMDR • Online EMDR Therapy • EMDR Therapist • EMDR Effectiveness)
Now don’t get me wrong, before I was an EMDR therapist- I was a therapy client. I really enjoyed my EMDR therapist which is why I would venture out in 40 min of traffic both ways and sit in the dreaded waiting room all of which would make my anxiety climb before therapy even started.
So, if you’re curious about online EMDR therapy—whether because of your busy schedule, physical limitations, or anxiety about in-person sessions—you’re not alone. Many people wonder: “Can trauma therapy done over a screen really work?” The answer is yes, and research does show that online EMDR can be both effective and meaningful for healing.
As a trained online EMDR therapist based in Tampa who solely provides online emdr therapy for several years, I am here to help you understand what online EMDR is, how it works, how it helps, and how to get started in a way that’s safe and supportive for you.
First, What Is Online EMDR Therapy?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a trauma-focused psychotherapy designed to help the brain reprocess distressing memories so they lose their intense emotional charge. Traditionally delivered in-person, thanks to advances in research and tehconolgy, we now know EMDR can be delivered effectively through telehealth platforms — video sessions where an EMDRIA trained therapist guides you through the full protocol in real time.
Online EMDR uses the same fundamental steps as in-office EMDR, including:
A safe, structured eight-phase process
Bilateral stimulation (visual, auditory, or tactile)
Real-time tracking of your reactions and nervous system responses
Clients and therapists work together through video conferencing, using tools like guided eye movements, tapping, or audio tones — just as you would in a physical office.
Does Online EMDR Actually Work?
Yes — growing evidence suggests online EMDR therapy is an effective option:
A real-world service evaluation found that EMDR delivered online significantly reduced clinical symptoms in clients — comparable to traditional in-person outcomes — when the full protocol was delivered remotely. Clients and therapists both found online EMDR to be safe, acceptable, and helpful.
The cool thing is that this evaluation proved that people receiving online EMDR had just as meaningful improvements in PTSD symptom measures as in person, AND that online delivery did not significantly increase drop-out rates or adverse outcomes.
A large survey of online EMDR clients found that 88% felt comfortable with online treatment, and 93% would recommend it —again indicating that it’s not just effective, but welcoming to many people.
At this point, research supports the idea that EMDR over video conferencing can be a viable alternative to in-office therapy, especially for people who need flexibility or can’t attend in person.
How Online EMDR Therapy Helps
Online EMDR Therapy can help with:
✔ Anxiety and panic symptoms
✔ Unresolved trauma or loss
✔ Intrusive memories or emotional overwhelm
✔ Reactions to reminders of the past
✔ Grief tied to events like illness, loss, or unexpected change
and much more…
Because EMDR works with how the brain stores memory and emotion, it doesn’t matter whether the bilateral stimulation happens with your therapist in the room or through a secure video platform — the nervous system still learns that distressing memories can be processed without fear.
This aligns with what research is starting to show: Remote EMDR Therapy could reduce your symptom severity, help you regulate emotional responses, and give you a sense of safety and control — even outside the therapy office.
Who Online EMDR Therapy Is For
Online EMDR is a great option if you:
Live far from a trauma-informed EMDR therapist (or anywhere with limited access)
Want EMDR therapy near me but can only find remote providers
Struggle with social anxiety, mobility issues, or transportation barriers
Prefer the comfort and privacy of your own space
Are working toward long-term healing rather than quick fixes
Basically, if you are interested in EMDR therapy, online EMDR therapy could be for you.
Please note- it’s important to work with a therapist who is properly trained in EMDR — who can guide you through bilateral stimulation safely and tailor the process to your nervous system’s needs.
How to Get Started With Online EMDR
Here are some tips when looking for Online EMDR Therapy:
1. Look for EMDRIA or EMDR certified clinicians.
Certified therapists have completed core training and ongoing education.
2. Ask about EMDR experience online.
Not all trauma therapists are comfortable with telehealth EMDR, so it’s worth asking.
3. Check technology needs.
A private, quiet space and a stable internet connection help you feel safe and present during sessions.
4. See if the therapist offers a free consultation.
A brief call helps you get a feel for fit, comfort, and expectations before committing financially. In fact, if you live in Florida or Texas you can schedule an Free 10 minute Introduction Call with me HERE
My final thoughts
Online EMDR therapy is not a “quick fix.” It’s a real, research-supported, trauma-informed way to heal in a way that fits your life.
Whether you’re searching for Tampa EMDR, Online EMDR therapy, or an EMDR therapist who gets nervous system work, you deserve treatment that respects your pace and your safety.
Book a free intro call today to talk about how online EMDR could support your journey.
- Ciara Helm, LCSW
(*Disclaimer- All information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace formal Mental Health Services* )
