EMDR Intensives vs. Weekly Therapy: Which is Right for You?
If you’ve been considering EMDR therapy to heal from trauma, anxiety, or distressing life experiences, you might be wondering: Should I do weekly EMDR therapy or an EMDR intensive? Both options can be effective, but depending on your needs, one may be a better fit. Let’s break down the key differences so you can make the best decision for your healing journey.
What is Traditional Weekly EMDR Therapy?
Weekly EMDR therapy follows a typical therapy model where you meet with your therapist for 50-60 minutes once a week. Over time, you gradually work through your past experiences, reprocess trauma, and develop coping strategies.
* Best For:
Individuals who prefer a slower, more gradual healing process.
Those navigating ongoing life stress and need long-term therapeutic support.
Clients who may not have the time or financial flexibility for an intensive.
What is an EMDR Intensive?
An EMDR intensive is a short-term, highly focused approach where you engage in multiple hours of EMDR therapy over one or more consecutive days. Instead of spreading sessions out over months, you work through targeted trauma and emotional blocks in a condensed timeframe.
* Best For:
Those who want faster relief from trauma or distressing memories.
Individuals who feel “stuck” in weekly therapy and want to make a breakthrough.
Busy professionals, parents, or those who have limited time for weekly sessions.
People who want an immersive healing experience with fewer interruptions.
Key Differences Between Weekly EMDR and EMDR Intensives
FeatureWeekly EMDR TherapyEMDR IntensiveSession Length50-60 minutes2-6 hours per dayDurationOngoing, often months to years1-5 days of focused therapyHealing PaceGradual, week-by-week progressAccelerated, deep processing in a short periodIdeal forThose needing steady, long-term supportThose seeking faster breakthroughsBest forChronic stress, ongoing therapy needsPast trauma, feeling stuck, or needing rapid relief
Is an EMDR Intensive Worth the Investment?
While intensives may cost more upfront, many people find they save time, emotional energy, and money in the long run. Instead of waiting months for progress, an intensive allows you to dive deep, reprocess trauma, and walk away with noticeable relief in just days. Plus, fewer sessions mean fewer co-pays and less time off work or away from family.
How to Decide Which Option is Best for You
Ask yourself:
Do I want a slower, gradual healing process or faster results?
Can I commit to weekly sessions, or would I prefer a condensed approach?
Am I looking for relief from specific past trauma, or do I need ongoing emotional support?
Do I feel stuck in my healing and need a breakthrough?
Both traditional EMDR therapy and intensives can be life-changing—it’s just about finding what works best for you. If you’re curious about EMDR intensives, I’d love to chat and see if it’s the right fit for your healing journey.
Ready to explore your options? Reach out today to learn more!
About the Author
I’m a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) and mom based in Walnut Creek, California. I specialize in supporting women through pregnancy, postpartum, motherhood, life transitions, and trauma. I offer in-person and virtual therapy across California, as well as EMDR therapy and EMDR intensives for deeper healing. Certified in Perinatal Mental Health (PMH-C), CBT and EMDR, I’m passionate about helping women feel seen, supported, and empowered—because you don’t have to do it alone.
Read more about me here.