
EMDR Intensives
Approximate length of each session:
90+ mins
EMDR intensives include personalized treatment plans that give clients faster access to therapy services and are designed to support quicker symptom relief. Because of the powerful healing effects of EMDR therapy, Intensives can produce faster results than standard weekly sessions. They can help clients process more information and heal quicker.
Are Intensives right for you?
Not everyone is a candidate for EMDR Intensives. But, the Intensive model can be life-changing for many people. Ideal candidates are those who have had a single stressful or traumatic event, such as an assault, fire or car accident. You may benefit from Intensives if:
You're a busy parent or working professional who needs help now, and doesn't have time for weekly therapy. Whatever the reason that weekly sessions won’t work for you, EMDR intensives are designed to treat your symptoms quickly and effectively.
You're currently doing traditional EMDR and struggling to get through certain stuck points in one-hour sessions. Some clients living with complex traumas, dissociative tendencies, or strong “protector parts” find they can process better with longer session times.
You've already done a lot of therapy and already know your "stuck points." You may know what you need from EMDR therapy and would prefer to put several hours or days aside to focus on healing rather than delay or spread it out over more time.
What to expect from Intensives
Pre-consultation interview to assess for appropriateness and target unpleasant beliefs, body sensations, emotions, or images from which you’re seeking relief
Customized treatment program includes targeted treatment goals to fit your scheduling and treatment needs
Post-treatment interview to assess and support your progress from treatment
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use my insurance for Intensives?
Insurance does not cover the cost of EMDR Intensives. Intensives do not have billing codes through insurance providers, so clients cannot submit claims for reimbursement.
How long do Intensives last?
An EMDR intensive typically lasts anywhere from a few consecutive days to a week, with each session within the intensive being longer (approximately 1.5-3 hours) than a traditional weekly therapy session. The exact duration depends on the individual client's needs and the complexity of the issues being addressed in therapy.
Do I get breaks during Intensive sessions?
Absolutely! Breaks will be built into Intensive sessions, and clients can also feel free to take breaks anytime outside of the scheduled break times.
How are Intensives cost effective?
While EMDR intensives can be expensive up front, they can also be cost-effective because they can reduce the overall number of sessions needed to achieve results. Intensives can also help people save time and resolve issues more quickly than in traditional 1-hour therapy sessions.
Can I do Intensives virtually?
Yes, clients can do EMDR intensives virtually through our practice's secure video conferencing platform.
Who are Intensives not good for?
While many clients are good candidates for EMDR Intensives, some may benefit from or prefer an ongoing therapeutic relationship. Clients with long-term childhood abuse or neglect, and/or have had years of traumatic experiences may be advised against doing EMDR Intensives. However, in some cases, clients with this type of history can make progress on particular parts of events where an Intensive may be appropriate.