What is an EMDR intensive?
EMDR intensives are EMDR sessions in which you set aside a longer period of time for a specific chunk of work. EMDR intensives are supported by evidence, and are beginning to be seen as an important part of a robust EMDR practice. In my own practice, I have seen clients get through months of work in a half of a day, simply by setting aside that concentrated time.
An EMDR intensive starts much like an EMDR session in a typical therapy setting. The difference is that we will have more time to work through a target, or a series of targets. We will also be able to work consciously with any blocks that consistently come up for you.
Typically in an EMDR intensive, I end up spending a portion of our time working with Internal Family Systems therapy to break through any long-standing resistance to change. It makes all the difference to take the appropriate time to work with “parts” to help them feel safe and invested in the process of healing.
How long is an EMDR intensive?
EMDR intensives are typically 3-4 hours in length. They can occur as a one-off, as part of a series of intensives, or as a component of an intensive retreat.
Where do intensives take place?
EMDR intensives can take place online for clients located in Oregon or Colorado, or in person at the Blissful Heart Wellness Center, in beautiful Bend, Oregon.
How much does an intensive cost?
I charge a flat rate of $550 for a 3-4 hour session. We will end somewhere within that window, depending on what is most appropriate for you in that moment.
Who is a good candidate for an EMDR intensives?
Intensive sessions can be, well, intense. Intensive clients should be able to tolerate a day of work which may go into some difficult material. Ideally, you will have some experience with therapy and EMDR, and have a reliable set of coping tools. Intensive clients who are ready to dive in to the work should see significant shifts.
I work with my own clients, and I also partner with other therapists that don’t practice EMDR intensives, but see a potential benefit for their clients. Before getting started, we will have a virtual intake session in preparation.
Why should I do an intensive?
Intensives are growing quickly in popularity and becoming widely regarded as an important part of a robust EMDR practice. When we have more time, we are able to effectively integrate Internal Family Systems therapy into the work, which can be essential in moving past blocks.
We are also often able to clear a target in one session, vs. getting cut off just as you are getting into the most important material, which is often what happens in hour-long sessions. In an intensive, you are often able to clear in a day what may have been holding you back for years.
If you are interested in scheduling an intensive, or if you are a therapist with clients that could be a good fit, reach out to schedule a free consultation.