Tips for EMDR Processing in a Virtual World!
In our last blog we encouraged you to conduct EMDR processing with your virtual clients, providing they are READY and you have done ALL necessary preparation to ensure they can stabilize effectively after processing.
When conducting EMDR processing virtually, we have a few recommendations. All are meant to keep you ATTUNED with the client.
For delivery of BLS, instruct client to do FAST tapping on their shoulders (where you can see what they are doing). As they are tapping, tap along with them. You can instruct client on modulating the speed, as you see fit.
Sit upright and with keen attentiveness, through your screen, on the client. Look for their "tell" such as: reddened face, tears, face,eyes or mouth scrunching up, eyes showing different expressions, chest rising/falling.
Breathe with them during BLS pauses.
As necessary and while client is processing, interject a word or two ("you're doing fine...that's right...just notice...)
What we DON'T recommend:
Using an eye movement app! With all of the other considerations in delivering online processing, you just don't need one more technological distraction. We believe using these devices can easily lead to YOU the therapist being distracted and therefore less attuned to the client; as well as an overall lack of engagement between client and therapist.
Questions? Check out our youtube clip https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pTNT2mRewlU, in which we discuss both EMDR resourcing and processing in a virtual setting.
Or, contact us to let us know how we can help!
