Dr JC Coetzee Clinical Psychologist Auckland - Milford, Ponsonby, Parnell Book Sessions
EMDR Therapy Auckland & Online

Online EMDR

EMDR Therapy 

From the Comfort of Your Own Space

Online/ Remote/ Virtual - Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy
In an increasingly digital world, access to effective mental health support must evolve with individual needs. I offer online EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) for adults navigating trauma, anxiety, and distressing life experiences—providing the same evidence-based care, remotely and securely.

What Is EMDR?

EMDR is a structured, research-backed psychotherapy method developed to help individuals process traumatic memories and emotionally charged experiences. It’s particularly effective for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), but also supports a wide range of challenges including:

  • Childhood trauma

  • Anxiety and panic attacks

  • Grief and loss

  • Phobias

  • Medical or surgical trauma

  • Complex relational difficulties

Rather than focusing solely on talking through the trauma, EMDR uses bilateral stimulation—through eye movements, tapping, or audio tones—which activates both hemispheres of the brain. This process helps the brain reprocess stuck or fragmented memories into healthier, more adaptive narratives.

Why I Offer Online EMDR

Remote EMDR therapy has become an invaluable option for those seeking accessible, flexible, and private care. I’ve refined my approach to ensure the same structure and safety found in face-to-face work, with added convenience for clients balancing work, caregiving, or those based in remote areas.

For many, the home becomes a place of grounding, allowing deeper emotional work without the additional energy of travel or navigating a clinical space. I’ll guide you in establishing a safe, calm environment before each session begins.

How Online EMDR Works

I offer EMDR therapy via secure, encrypted video platforms. Each phase of treatment—from history-taking to desensitisation—is adapted for online delivery while staying true to the EMDR model. Key elements include:

  • Digital tools for bilateral stimulation (e.g., visual, auditory, or tactile)

  • Grounding and stabilisation strategies tailored to your environment

  • A collaborative approach: you set the pace, and I support you every step of the way

Depending on your needs, I may incorporate techniques such as parts work, mindfulness, or somatic tracking to reinforce emotional regulation and safety.

Is Online EMDR Effective?

Yes. Research consistently shows that online EMDR offers results comparable to in-person sessions, especially for PTSD, anxiety, and depression. In fact, some clients feel more secure and open in a familiar environment, which can help accelerate the healing process.

The foundation of successful EMDR is a strong therapeutic alliance. I prioritise trust, emotional safety, and clear communication so that these essential elements remain at the heart of our work—regardless of format.

Who Might Benefit?

Online EMDR may be especially suited to adults who:

  • Have experienced trauma and are looking for a structured, empowering way to process it

  • Are managing symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, panic, or low self-worth

  • Prefer the privacy, convenience, and sensory control of remote sessions

  • Are neurodivergent and benefit from custom pacing and clear expectations

I tailor each programme based on your needs, values, and processing style, ensuring EMDR fits into the broader framework of your personal goals.

Creating Safety and Structure Remotely

Safety isn’t optional—it’s foundational. I support you in:

  • Setting up a comfortable, private space

  • Establishing resourcing techniques (e.g., breathwork, safe imagery, sensory tools)

  • Planning sessions with built-in closure and post-session care

Because trauma work can be intense, I always move at your pace and prepare thoroughly before any memory reprocessing begins.

What Technology Do You Need?

To participate in online EMDR, you’ll need:

  • A reliable internet connection

  • A device with a camera and microphone

  • A private space where you won’t be interrupted

  • Headphones may be useful for sound clarity and privacy

  • Access to bilateral stimulation tools (I’ll guide you on setup)

I’ll provide simple instructions and support to get everything running smoothly before we begin.

What to Expect in the First Sessions

Initial sessions focus on:

  • Understanding your history and goals

  • Strengthening emotional regulation and grounding strategies

  • Exploring how past experiences are showing up in your present life

I won’t begin reprocessing until you're ready and equipped with the tools to manage emotional intensity. You stay in control at every step.

A Neurodiversity-Informed Approach

As someone who works closely with neurodivergent adults, I integrate EMDR with a flexible, affirming lens. If you’re autistic, ADHD, highly sensitive, or have specific sensory or cognitive preferences, I make adjustments to ensure the work suits your needs.

This might include:

  • Modifying the visual or auditory components of bilateral stimulation

  • Offering written summaries or visual prompts

  • Building in time for transition and regulation

  • Collaborating closely on structure and predictability

My approach honours neurodivergent ways of thinking, feeling, and processing—I don’t just make space for difference, I work with it.

Ready to Begin?

If you’d like to explore online EMDR, feel free to get in touch. I’m happy to answer questions, talk through your goals, and help you decide if this approach is right for you.

Some Frequently Asked Questions about Online/ Remote EMDR Therapy

1. What is EMDR therapy? EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is a structured psychotherapy designed to help individuals process and resolve traumatic memories using bilateral stimulation.

2. How does EMDR work online? Online EMDR sessions mirror the structure of in-person therapy, using secure video platforms and digital tools for bilateral stimulation such as tapping apps, onscreen visuals, or guided audio.

3. Is online EMDR as effective as in-person therapy? Yes. Research shows that online EMDR can be equally effective, provided the therapist maintains a strong therapeutic alliance, safety protocols, and clear communication.

4. Is online EMDR safe for processing trauma? When done with careful preparation and grounding, online EMDR is safe. I work with you to create a structured, secure space, and we move at your pace.

5. What kinds of issues can online EMDR help with? It supports a range of challenges, including PTSD, anxiety, childhood trauma, grief, phobias, and complex relational stressors.

6. What technology do I need for online EMDR? A stable internet connection, a device with a camera and microphone, and a quiet, private space. I’ll provide links to any tools required for bilateral stimulation.

7. Do I need to download special software? No. Most tools I use are browser-based or app-based and don’t require advanced tech skills. I'll guide you through setup before our sessions.

8. How should I prepare for my first session? Find a private, comfortable space with minimal distractions. Bring water, a notebook if helpful, and anything that makes you feel grounded (e.g. a calming object or sensory aid).

9. What happens in an online EMDR session? Sessions include check-ins, resourcing or grounding techniques, and trauma processing through bilateral stimulation, all tailored to your readiness and needs.

10. Can we pause or stop if I feel overwhelmed? Absolutely. You are always in control. We can pause, slow down, or pivot to grounding tools at any time.

11. Is online EMDR suitable if I’m neurodivergent? Yes. I work with neurodivergent clients regularly and adapt pacing, communication, and techniques to meet individual processing styles.

12. Will I relive traumatic memories during sessions? You may recall distressing memories, but EMDR isn’t about retelling them in detail. We focus on how your body and brain are holding the experience, not on vivid re-experiencing.

13. How many sessions will I need? This varies. Some clients feel relief in a few sessions, while others benefit from longer-term support depending on the complexity of their experiences and goals.

14. What if I dissociate or get overwhelmed during a session? We’ll have a plan in place, including grounding tools and techniques you can use if dissociation occurs. I will monitor your responses and adjust accordingly.

15. Can I do online EMDR from anywhere? Yes, as long as you have a safe, private space and stable connection. Many clients appreciate the freedom to attend sessions from home or while travelling.

16. Will sessions be recorded? No. Sessions are private and confidential. I do not record sessions, and I use secure, encrypted platforms to protect your privacy.

17. Do I need a diagnosis to start EMDR therapy? Not at all. EMDR is a therapeutic approach, not tied to any specific diagnosis, and is suitable for anyone feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or distressed.

18. Can EMDR be integrated with other therapies? Yes. EMDR can complement other therapeutic work, including talk therapy, coaching, somatic approaches, or mindfulness-based practices.

19. Is EMDR suitable during times of high stress? It depends on the individual. Sometimes we focus on stabilisation and resourcing before beginning trauma reprocessing. We’ll assess together what’s most supportive.

20. How do I know if online EMDR is right for me? We’ll begin with a conversation to explore your goals, answer questions, and determine whether EMDR is a good fit for your needs and preferences.

EMDR Therapy Auckland & Online
Online/ Remote/ Virtual - Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy

Visit The EMDR Therapy Clinic Auckland & Online

The EMDR Therapy Clinic