EMDR intensives in pasadena, ca (in-person) & online in ca


Faster Symptom Reduction with EMDR Intensives

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Patricia Alvarado - EMDR therapist

EMDR Intensives are extended and concentrated sessions of EMDR therapy that are conducted over a shorter period of time than traditional weekly sessions.

EMDR Intensives provide a unique opportunity for individuals to engage deeply in therapy and is particularly beneficial for those experiencing trauma, PTSD, complex trauma, anxiety, and stress.

This focused therapeutic approach allows clients to participate in several hours of concentrated therapy over a few days, resulting in faster symptom relief and deeper processing of traumatic experiences.

For those grappling with intense emotions, persistent anxiety, or the difficulties associated with complex trauma, this immersive experience can lead to significant breakthroughs in their healing journey.

EMDR Intensives also offer a practical alternative for those who have become discouraged by the slower pace of traditional therapy, promoting rapid healing in a supportive environment tailored to individual needs. Research supports that EMDR Intensives can yield quicker symptom reduction and notable benefits, especially for individuals with Complex PTSD.

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EMDR Intensives can create a profound shift in how you relate to your past, fostering renewed hope, resilience, and empowerment in your life.

You might find an EMDR Intensive helpful if you hope to:

  • feel a sense of relief and empowerment as you work through your trauma

  • experience reduced anxiety, depression, emotional distress, and intrusive thoughts

  • have a clearer, more manageable perspective on your past experiences

  • feel understood and supported in a safe environment

  • understand how to express vulnerabilities and explore difficult emotions

  • develop healthier coping mechanisms and improved emotional regulation

  • increase self-esteem and resilience

  • feel lighter, more hopeful, and equipped with tools to navigate your daily life more effectively

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EMDR Intensives may be recommended for various reasons including:

Rapid Relief

Intensives can provide quicker relief from symptoms compared to traditional weekly therapy sessions, which may be particularly beneficial for individuals in crisis or experiencing severe distress.

Deep Dive

Intensives offer the opportunity to delve deeply into processing traumatic memories and addressing underlying issues without the interruption of long breaks between sessions.

Logistical Considerations

For individuals who travel from out of town or have scheduling constraints, intensives can offer a more convenient option for receiving EMDR therapy within a condensed timeframe.

EMDR Intensive Options

3-Day EMDR Intensive

6 hours a day
In-person in Pasadena, CA
Investment: $5750

The 3-day Intensive Retreat spans over three days, with 6 hours of continuous processing each day. Planning your schedule carefully is crucial to ensure uninterrupted participation throughout the entire duration. Missing a day of intensive work can disrupt the process and hinder your goals. Please arrange your schedule accordingly to fully immerse yourself in the experience without any other commitments.

Schedule for the 3-day Intensive Retreat

Start Time: 9am 

  • Check in on plan per the pre-assessment meeting

  • Processing throughout the morning.

Lunch time: 12pm – 1pm 

Continue Intensive Work: 1pm – 4pm

End Time: 4pm

During the day, we’ll take short breaks as needed. It’s advisable to bring items that make you comfortable, such as a weighted blanket or any preferred object. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks as well.

Each day, we will begin at 9am and end at 4pm. 

Details regarding scheduling options can be addressed during our consultation call. Additionally, payment plans can be discussed and tailored to your needs during this call.

Aftercare will be scheduled 1-2 weeks after the intensive retreat where we can determine if weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or an additional intensive is needed.

Investment Breakdown

Pre-Assessment: 60-90 min $250 
(for new clients & non-EMDR clients only)

Processing through each day: $5250

Aftercare: 30-60 min $250

*payment plans available 

Please note: complete payment is required on the first day of the EMDR Intensive

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1-Day EMDR Intensive

6 hours in one day
In-person in Pasadena, CA
Investment: $2250

The 1-day Intensive consists of 6 hours of continued processing with a one hour lunch break. Planning your day is crucial to avoid any interruptions throughout the day. It is advisable that you carve out the full time to obtain the most benefits from the experience. 

Schedule for the 1-day Intensive

Start Time: 9am 

  • Check in on plan per the pre-assessment meeting

  • Processing throughout the morning.

Lunch time: 12pm – 1pm 

Continue Intensive Work: 1pm – 4pm

End Time: 4pm

During the day, we’ll take short breaks as needed. It’s advisable to bring items that make you comfortable, such as a weighted blanket or any preferred object. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks as well.

Details regarding scheduling options can be addressed during our consultation call. Additionally, payment plans can be discussed and tailored to your needs during this call.

Aftercare will be scheduled 1-2 weeks after the intensive retreat where we can determine if weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or an additional intensive is needed.

Investment Breakdown

Pre-Assessment: 60-90 min $250
(for new clients & non-EMDR clients only)

Processing through each day: $1750

Aftercare: 30-60 min $250

*payment plan available

Please note: complete payment is required on the first day of the EMDR Intensive

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1-Day EMDR Intensive

4 hours in one day
Online
or in-person in Pasadena, CA
Investment: $1500

The 4-hour Intensive consists of 4 hours of continued processing with a few short breaks in between. Planning your day is crucial to avoid any interruptions throughout our allocated time. It is advisable that you carve out the full time to obtain the most benefits from the experience. 

Schedule for the 4-hour Intensive

You can schedule your 4-hour Intensive any time between 9am-5pm on our agreed upon day.

  • Check in on plan per the pre-assessment meeting

  • Processing throughout the morning.

Short breaks throughout as needed.

It’s advisable to bring items that make you comfortable, such as a weighted blanket or any preferred object. Don’t forget to bring water and snacks as well.

Details regarding scheduling options can be addressed during our consultation call. Additionally, payment plans can be discussed and tailored to your needs during this call.

Aftercare will be scheduled 1-2 weeks after the intensive retreat where we can determine if weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, or an additional intensive is needed.

Investment Breakdown

Pre-Assessment: 60-90 min $250
(for new clients & non-EMDR clients only)

Processing through each day: $1000

Aftercare: 30-60 min $250

*payment plan available

Please note: complete payment is required on the first day of the EMDR Intensive

schedule a free consultation

Research on EMDR Intensives

Research on EMDR Intensives is expanding, with ongoing positive findings.

A pilot study showed that intensive treatment may lead to a faster reduction in symptoms. You can read more about the study here.

This case series shows how patients with Complex PTSD can benefit from EMDR Intensives. The evidence suggests that more frequent scheduling maximizes treatment outcomes.

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Ready to heal through an EMDR Intensive?

To get started, book a free consultation.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • An EMDR intensive is a longer, more focused therapy experience that takes place over one or several extended sessions instead of weekly appointments. This format allows for deeper therapeutic work in a shorter period of time. Intensives are often chosen by people who want dedicated time to address specific concerns or feel ready to move through healing at a faster pace.

  • The main difference is time and focus. EMDR intensives offer several hours of therapy over one or multiple days, allowing you to stay engaged in the work without long breaks between sessions. Weekly therapy tends to move more gradually. Intensives can be helpful if scheduling weekly sessions is difficult or if you want more concentrated support.

  • EMDR intensives can be helpful for people working through trauma, anxiety, or long-standing emotional patterns who feel ready for focused work. They may also suit individuals with limited availability for weekly therapy. During the consultation process, we’ll talk through your needs, history, and goals to determine whether an intensive is appropriate for you.

  • An intensive typically includes extended EMDR processing, breaks for rest and grounding, and time to reflect and integrate the work. Sessions are carefully paced, and your emotional and physical comfort are prioritized throughout. You remain in control at all times, and we regularly check in to ensure the process feels supportive and manageable.

  • Intensive work can feel deep and meaningful, but it is not meant to be overwhelming. We take time to prepare, pace the sessions carefully, and include grounding strategies as needed. Many clients report feeling tired but supported afterward. We also discuss after-care and ways to care for yourself following the intensive.

  • The length of an EMDR intensive varies based on your needs and goals. Some intensives take place over a single full day, while others are spread across multiple days. We’ll discuss options during your consultation and create a plan that feels realistic, supportive, and aligned with what you’re hoping to work on.

  • No prior EMDR experience is required. Before the intensive, we spend time preparing and making sure you understand the process. This preparation helps build safety, trust, and coping tools so you feel ready for the work. If EMDR does not feel like the right approach for you, we can discuss other options.

  • After an intensive, we talk through next steps and ongoing support options. This may include follow-up sessions, coordination with an existing therapist, or recommendations for continued care. Integration and support after the intensive are an important part of the process, and we make sure you don’t feel left on your own afterward.