Can EMDR Therapy Be Done Online? Understanding the Effectiveness of Virtual EMDR
In recent years, therapy has evolved—and so has EMDR. What was once considered a modality best suited for in-person sessions is now being delivered remotely, with growing success. If you’re wondering, “Does EMDR work over Zoom?” or “Can EMDR be done online effectively?”—you’re not alone. These are some of the most common questions I hear from potential clients.
Let’s break it down.
How EMDR Therapy Works Virtually
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapy that helps people heal from trauma, anxiety, and other emotional distress by reprocessing disturbing memories. It uses bilateral stimulation—often through eye movements, tapping, or sound—to help the brain reprocess and integrate experiences that may have become “stuck” in the nervous system.
In virtual EMDR therapy, we recreate the same bilateral stimulation using online tools—such as light bars, alternate audio tones, or visual cues on screen. Remote EMDR sessions are conducted through secure HIPPA compliant video platforms like Zoom, and the structure of the session remains the same: preparation, resourcing, desensitization, and reprocessing.
Common Concerns About Online EMDR Therapy
Before the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, the idea of doing EMDR online would have received a more mixed response. Many therapists (myself included) weren’t sure if it could be as effective without being in the same room. But when the pandemic made in-person sessions impossible, we had to adapt—and what we found surprised us.
Not only did virtual EMDR therapy work, it often worked well.
Clients were able to access and process deep emotional material from the safety and comfort of their own homes. Today, many trauma-informed professionals continue to offer online EMDR because clients are thriving with it—and in some cases, even prefer it.
Some common concerns I still hear include:
“Don’t you have to be in the same room for it to work?”
No. What matters most is the presence of a trained EMDR therapist and your ability to engage in bilateral stimulation, both of which can be achieved online.“What if I get overwhelmed during the session?”
Part of trauma-informed care includes building grounding tools—whether we’re in-person or online. Many clients actually feel more secure processing at home in their own space.“Will I feel disconnected over a screen?”
While screen fatigue is real, EMDR sessions are often deeply engaging. Many clients report feeling just as connected—and sometimes more focused—virtually.
Is Virtual EMDR Effective? What the Research and Experience Say
The short answer: Yes.
Research and clinical experience increasingly support the effectiveness of online EMDR therapy. A 2021 study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that EMDR delivered via telehealth was just as effective as in-person sessions for PTSD and trauma-related symptoms.
In my own practice, I’ve worked with clients across California and Nevada using remote EMDR—and I’ve seen firsthand the depth of healing that can happen. For some, being in the safety of their own home enhances their ability to access difficult memories and stay regulated during processing.
🌍 The Benefits of Online EMDR Therapy
Accessibility: Whether you're in Los Angeles, Las Vegas, or anywhere else in California or Nevada, you can access trauma-informed care without the commute.
Comfort: Many clients feel safer processing deep emotions from the familiarity of their own home.
Flexibility for Travelers: If you travel frequently for work or family, virtual EMDR allows you to continue your healing process without interruption. You don’t have to pause therapy just because life takes you somewhere else.
Continuity of Care: I’m licensed in both California and Nevada, which means we can keep working together even if you move, split your time between states, or spend long stretches away.
Consistency: Life happens—remote sessions help therapy stay consistent, even during transitions, relocations, or schedule changes.
💬 Getting Started with Virtual EMDR
If you’ve been curious about EMDR but haven’t pursued it because of logistics or location, virtual EMDR therapymight be the right fit.
I offer telehealth EMDR sessions to adults across California and Nevada. Whether you're dealing with trauma, anxiety, burnout, or long-standing patterns that feel hard to shift, EMDR therapy via Zoom can be a safe, effective way to move forward.
Curious if online EMDR is right for you?
📍 Learn more or schedule a consultation at MyEMDRLA.com
I offer virtual EMDR therapy to adults throughout California and Nevada, with a focus on trauma recovery, nervous system healing, and lasting change.
Michelle Nosrati, LCSW
Trauma Specialist | EMDR Therapist
Licensed in California & Nevada
Secure Telehealth Services Available
www.MyEMDRLA.com
Research Source:
Lenferink, L. I. M., Meyerbröker, K., Boelen, P. A., & Winkel, F. W. (2021). Online EMDR for PTSD symptoms: A meta-analysis and systematic review of treatment effectiveness. Frontiers in Psychology, 12, 748395. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2021.748395