Remote EMDR checklist
Remote EMDR technology checklist for therapists
Check the browser, camera, microphone, headphones, patient link, BLS controls, privacy, and backup plan before a therapist-led online EMDR session.
By the EMDRSuite Editorial Team
Product claims checked against the current EMDRSuite code and interface.
No independent clinical reviewer is named for this guide.
1. Confirm the remote-care plan
Document consent for remote work, the patient's current location, emergency contacts, local crisis resources, privacy conditions, and a backup phone or approved communication route.
Technology readiness is only one part of appropriateness. The qualified therapist decides whether remote delivery fits the patient, phase of work, and current clinical risk.
2. Test the patient device and browser
Use a current browser on a laptop or desktop when possible, close bandwidth-heavy applications, connect power, and confirm that the patient can open the private link before the appointment.
Check that the stimulus area is visible at a comfortable size and that browser zoom, accessibility settings, or small screens do not distort the movement path.
3. Check camera, microphone, and bilateral audio
Confirm the selected camera and microphone, useful framing, adequate light, and stable audio. Headphones are important when left-right bilateral sound is part of the planned set.
Test volume at a comfortable level before processing. The patient should know how to mute, stop camera sharing, and request a pause.
4. Prepare BLS settings and patient access
Select a starting movement, speed, color, shape, size, duration, repetitions, and audio pattern appropriate to the therapist's plan. Saved settings can reduce repetitive setup, but they should still be reviewed for the current session.
Generate the patient link close to the appointment, share it through the agreed channel, and avoid placing identifying clinical information in the message or URL.
5. Rehearse failure and closure
Agree on what both people will do if video freezes, audio drops, or the patient disappears from the room. Keep the backup contact available without exposing it in public notes or links.
End with enough time for grounding, assessment, documentation, and technical follow-up. Record meaningful clinical information, not unnecessary technical detail or sensitive content in logs.
FAQ
remote EMDR technology checklist
What equipment does a patient need for EMDR online?
A compatible browser, stable connection, suitable screen, camera and microphone for video, and headphones when alternating bilateral audio is used.
Should the technology be tested before the first session?
Yes. A short test reduces uncertainty around permissions, devices, audio channels, screen size, and the patient link.
Is a backup contact method necessary?
Yes. Remote sessions need a pre-agreed contingency route in case the browser, internet connection, or video fails.
Does this checklist replace a clinical protocol?
No. It covers operational preparation and does not replace EMDR training, supervision, clinical assessment, or local professional requirements.
References
Remote EMDR technology checklist for therapists
EMDRSuite
Put the guide into practice with EMDRSuite
Run remote EMDR with visual BLS, bilateral sounds, secure patient links, video-ready sessions, saved settings, and notes.