Clinical Practice
Preparing Clients for Online EMDR
A step-by-step guide to preparing clients for online EMDR — informed consent, technical setup, safety planning and grounding resources.
Reviewed by the BilateralSync clinical team · Updated · 6 min read
Introduction
Preparing a client for online EMDR is as much about the physical and technical setup as it is about the psychological work. Good preparation reduces disruptions, protects the therapeutic frame and keeps the client safe.
Evidence summary
Clinical guidance from EMDRIA and EMDR Europe emphasises informed consent that specifies the online modality, verified location and emergency contacts, a distraction-free space, and pre-session testing of the BLS delivery tool.
Clinical use
A practical pre-session checklist: informed consent for online modality; verified physical location and local emergency contacts; private space, closed door, headphones; tested BLS tool link (e.g. BilateralSync) with adjusted speed and volume; grounding resources rehearsed; safety plan updated; and a plan for lost connections mid-session.
Frequently asked questions
- What if the connection drops during reprocessing?
- Agree in advance: pause, use grounding, reconnect, complete an abbreviated closure. Never end a session with an unclosed abreaction if avoidable.
References
- EMDRIA (2020). Virtual EMDR therapy.
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