EMDR can be deeply transformative, but it is not a magic wand.
Like any powerful therapy, it works best when certain conditions are in place.
This page is here to help you understand what supports EMDR to be most effective, especially when working together via online Telehealth sessions. Many clients find that simply knowing this ahead of time helps them feel calmer, more confident, and better prepared.
If you’re still wondering whether EMDR is right for you, you may also like to visit
Not perfectly safe.
Not fearless.
Just safe enough.
EMDR relies on your nervous system’s ability to stay within a tolerable window while processing distressing memories. This is why we place strong emphasis on:
For many clients, this means spending time in the early phases of EMDR first.
You can learn more about what this looks like here
EMDR works with your nervous system, not against it.
Clients often worry they need to:
In reality, EMDR is most effective when you allow yourself to:
This is especially important for people with:
If this resonates, our approach may feel different from what you expect in a good way.
Learn more about our relational, trauma-informed approach here
One of the biggest myths about EMDR is that it jumps straight into trauma processing.
In reality, effective EMDR begins long before reprocessing.
Preparation may include:
For Telehealth EMDR, preparation is even more important and also very effective when done well.
You do not need to be “ready enough” by someone else’s standard.
EMDR works best when:
If parts of you are unsure, resistant, or protective, that is not a problem. Those parts often carry important wisdom and are welcomed into the work.
This is why we integrate attachment-informed and parts-based EMDR, particularly for complex trauma and professionals experiencing burnout.
EMDR is not about doing more. It is about showing up consistently.
Clients tend to see the best outcomes when they:
Telehealth EMDR supports this beautifully by reducing travel stress and making therapy more accessible during busy or emotionally demanding periods.
If you’re wondering what Telehealth EMDR at Holding Space looks like in practice, this page may help
Ethical EMDR includes knowing when to pause, slow down, or shift focus.
EMDR works best when your therapist:
At Holding Space, EMDR is never applied as a one-size-fits-all technique. It is adapted to you.
Sometimes EMDR is not the first step, and that is okay.
We may recommend additional stabilisation first if you are experiencing:
In these cases, EMDR may still be part of your journey later. If you’re unsure, we can explore this together during an initial consultation.
If EMDR feels like a possible fit and you want support that is:
You’re warmly invited to reach out.
Address: Suite 3, 6 Geils Court, Deakin, ACT 2600
Email: support@hscps.au
Phone: 02 5115 1159
Fax: 02 6188 7368
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Face-to-face (Thur): 2 months' wait
Telehealth (Mon, Wed, Thur): 1-2 weeks' wait