Treating Trauma with EMDR Intensives

EMDR is one of the ways we treat trauma at Taproot Psychology. We also offer EMDR intensives - an approach that has become increasingly popular for people seeking targeted trauma resolution and deeper emotional breakthroughs. But what exactly is an EMDR intensive and why are more people choosing this method?

What is an EMDR intensive?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) intensives are extended, focused therapy sessions designed to accelerate the healing process. Rather than attending weekly sessions, clients engage in one or two seven-hour days of therapy. These sessions are carefully structured to focus entirely on trauma processing and emotional integration. Clients often arrive with insight into their triggers or memories but feel “stuck.” EMDR intensives help them move past that stuck point with powerful and lasting results.

Why choose an EMDR intensive?
Many clients come to EMDR intensives after years of traditional talk therapy. These individuals are typically high-functioning in their daily life but are looking for something deeper to shift longstanding internal patterns. Intensives allow for that by bypassing the “weekly catch-up” and going straight into the core issues. The focused nature of these sessions often leads to breakthroughs that may typically take months to achieve in regular therapy.

One client described their experience as “a lightbulb moment,” saying they left with a sense of freedom and control they hadn’t felt in years. Another called it “the best investment in me that I have made in a decade”.

What makes this approach unique?
While more people are asking for EMDR intensives, not many therapists offer them. We do. At Taproot Psychology, we know that EMDR intensives are an evidence-based way to unlock real transformation in a condensed timeframe. Our intensives include a personalised workbook to help you to clarify therapy goals, build your coping resources and ensure lasting change. A follow-up session about a month later helps clients consolidate their gains and feel supported throughout the process, from start to finish.

Benefits of 1:1 EMDR intensive therapy

Greater value for your time: One intensive day can equal 7 weeks of therapy and two intensive days equals 14 weeks of therapy, with no time required for reviewing previous sessions.

Immediate focus: No warm-up required, we dive straight into what matters most.

Tailored support: You receive undivided attention and a highly personalised treatment plan.

Lasting results: Clients typically leave with reduced symptoms, new insights, a sense of lightness or freedom plus tailored, practical tools for moving forward.

Client testimonials

“Dr. Kelly’s empathy and guidance helped me reframe my childhood experiences through an adult lens. I left feeling empowered and lighter.”

“I was seen, heard and respected. The work we did gave me new responses to old triggers.”

“The best decision I’ve made in a decade. It changed my life and my family’s life.”

EMDR intensive FAQs

Is EMDR intensive therapy right for me?
If you’re functioning day-to-day but feel stuck emotionally or mentally due to unresolved trauma, an intensive may be right for you.

How is it different from weekly therapy?
You receive focused, uninterrupted time to process trauma (up to 14 hours over just two days) saving the time spent in weekly sessions.

Will I still need regular therapy?
EMDR intensives often complement existing therapy, helping to accelerate progress. Clients may choose to continue talk therapy afterwards for ongoing support while others don’t need further support.

What’s included in an intensive?
You’ll receive pre-planning and assessment with a Taproot Psychology EMDR therapist, one or two full therapy days (7-14 hours), a customised workbook and a follow-up session one month later.