Every January, lots of us promise ourselves that this year will be different. Often the changes we want most aren't about the gym or a diet. They're about finally dealing with the things that have been weighing on us for years: the memories that still hurt, the anxiety that never quite switches off, the patterns that keep repeating.
If that sounds familiar, an EMDR intensive might be worth considering. Instead of weekly sessions stretched over months, you do focused EMDR therapy over one or more full days. For some people, it's the reset they've been looking for.
What is an EMDR intensive?
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing) is an evidence-based therapy that helps the brain process distressing memories so they no longer feel as raw or overwhelming. If you're new to it, our guide What Is EMDR Therapy? explains how it works.
An intensive delivers EMDR in longer, concentrated blocks. With Accelerate EMDR, each intensive day runs from 10am to 4.30pm, with around five hours of focused therapy and breaks built in. Before the intensive we meet for a consultation and preparation, so you go into the days feeling ready, and afterwards there's a follow-up review. You can read what happens on each day in more detail.
Why January can be a good time
You can plan ahead. Booking now gives you time for the consultation and preparation, and to arrange time off work or childcare.
A natural fresh start. Many people find it easier to commit to change when a new year begins.
Less waiting between sessions. Weekly therapy can mean opening something up and then waiting seven days to continue. An intensive lets you keep going while you have momentum.
Space after a busy season. The weeks before Christmas are often too full for therapy. January can give you clearer space to focus on yourself.
Who an EMDR intensive can suit
An intensive can be a good fit if you:
have a specific memory or experience that still affects you, such as an accident, a loss, a betrayal or an assault
have done talking therapy and understand why you feel the way you do, but the feelings haven't shifted
find it hard to fit weekly appointments around work, family or travel
want to make focused progress in a shorter time
are carrying relationship patterns, low self-worth or anxiety rooted in earlier experiences
Intensives aren't only for single events. They can also help with repeated or childhood trauma, with careful preparation. Our post Can EMDR Intensives Help With Complex Trauma? explains how.
When weekly sessions might be better
An intensive isn't right for everyone. Weekly EMDR may suit you better if you're currently in crisis, if you need more time to build stability first, or if you'd simply prefer to go more gradually. We'll talk this through honestly at your consultation, and there's no pressure either way.
What does it cost?
All-inclusive intensive packages cover your consultation, preparation, intensive days and a follow-up review:
1 day: £950
2 days: £1,495
3 days: £2,150
5 days: £2,995
Intensive days can also be booked on their own from £650. A £150 non-refundable deposit secures your dates, and the balance is due 2 weeks before you start. If you'd prefer to spread the cost, a pay-before-you-start plan lets you pay in instalments over 2 to 3 months before your intensive. See all EMDR fees.
How to plan a January intensive
Book a free 15-minute call. We'll talk about what's brought you here and whether an intensive feels right.
Have your consultation. We'll look at your history and goals and agree a plan.
Choose your dates. Your deposit secures them.
Prepare. We'll build grounding and coping strategies so you feel ready.
Your intensive days, in person at The Tower Clinic in Cookridge, Leeds, or online.
Follow-up review, to look at what's changed and plan any next steps.
If you'd like to start the year with something that could genuinely shift how you feel, book a free 15-minute call or read more about EMDR intensives.
Jodie Slee, EMDR therapist and psychotherapist, Accelerate EMDR
