Self-administering EMDR makes healing accessible to all and carries many potential benefits:
Accessibility and Convenience
- Self-administered EMDR allows individuals to access the benefits of EMDR therapy from the comfort of their own homes without the need for in-person appointments.
- It offers flexibility, as you can perform self-EMDR sessions at any time that suits your schedule.
Cost-Effectiveness
- Therapists are expensive, and sadly, for many people, the cost makes it simply out of the question. Self-administered EMDR can be a cost-effective alternative to regular therapy sessions, as it eliminates the ongoing costs associated with professional treatment.
Privacy
- Some individuals may feel more comfortable exploring their traumatic memories and emotions in the privacy of their own homes, alone.
Empowerment in Personal Healing
- Self-administered EMDR can encourage a sense of control and active participation in one’s own healing process.
- It may facilitate a deeper understanding of personal mental health.
Effectiveness in Reducing Distress
- One study found that self-administered EMDR sessions delivered via an online platform significantly reduced distress related to traumatic memories, with increased sessions leading to greater reductions.
- The same study revealed themes of direct improvement, emotional reprocessing, and behavioral reprocessing in post-session reviews.
Potential to Expand EMDR Availability
- Self-administered EMDR has the potential to expand the availability of EMDR treatment, particularly in areas with limited access to professional EMDR therapists.
However, it’s crucial to note that self-administered EMDR also carries potential risks, such as ineffective results, retraumatization, and intense emotional reactions. It is advisable to make use of materials available such as the Self-Guided EMDR therapy and trauma workbook to aid you on your journey.
It is generally recommended to thoroughly research EMDR risks and if possible, consult with a trained EMDR therapist before attempting self-EMDR and to use caution, especially when dealing with severe traumas.