Group Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing

Group Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for Community Healing

A trauma-informed group model that helps people process collective stress and rebuild emotional safety together.

Best for

Communities or groups impacted by disasters, war, collective trauma, or ongoing stress.

Session format

Group (6–20 participants on average) · In person or Virtual.

Typical cadence

Weekly or multi-day intensives · Session length: 90–120 minutes.

Duration

Varies · Short-term crisis interventions or longer-term group programs.

Often combined with

Narrative therapy, CBT, IFS, trauma-informed group support.

Evidence base

EMDR-IGTP and G-TEP are recognized models with proven results in collective trauma recovery.

What Is Group Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?

Group EMDR applies the principles of EMDR therapy in a structured group format. Two main models are widely used:

G-TEP (Group Traumatic Episode Protocol)

For groups experiencing recent trauma (e.g., natural disasters, war, community violence)

EMDR-IGTP (Integrative Group Treatment Protocol)

For individuals with varying trauma histories who benefit from shared healing

How Group Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Helps in Recovery

The power of shared EMDR sessions for emotional healing and resilience

Builds resilience

Encourages collective coping and support strategies

Reduces isolation

Helps participants feel less alone in their experiences

Addresses large scale trauma

Useful after disasters, violence, or mass displacement

Supports ongoing healing

Can complement individual EMDR or other therapies

What to Expect in Sessions

Group EMDR is structured, safe, and guided by trained facilitators. Sessions often include:

Psychoeducation

Teaching about trauma and the brain’s healing process.

Individual worksheets

Participants focus on their own trauma targets privately.

Bilateral stimulation exercises

Guided movements, tapping, or visual cues adapted for groups.

Group reflection

Safe sharing and normalization of experiences.

Integration tools

Relaxation, grounding, and resilience practices.

Who Benefits from Group Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)?

Understanding Individuals Who Thrive in Supportive, Shared Healing Environments

Group EMDR benefits people seeking trauma recovery in a setting where shared experience enhances healing. It is especially supportive for individuals who feel comforted by community, want to reduce isolation, or prefer a structured approach that offers both personal processing and group-based resilience. Group EMDR can help participants build emotional strength, gain insight from others, and move through trauma with compassionate guidance and collective support.

Disaster & Conflict Survivors

Survivors of natural disasters, war, or terrorism

Communities Facing Trauma

Communities impacted by violence, displacement, or systemic trauma

First Responders & Veterans

Groups of first responders, veterans, or frontline workers

Schools & Youth Groups

Schools or youth groups facing collective stress or crisis

Limited Therapy Access

Individuals without immediate access to one-on-one trauma therapy

Why TruPaths Highlights Group Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Making Group Therapy Accessible, Effective, and Supportive

TruPaths highlights Group EMDR because collective trauma requires collective healing. G-TEP and EMDR-IGTP provide scalable, evidence-based methods to bring recovery to communities, schools, and groups in need.

FAQs about Group Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Do I have to share my trauma with the group?

No. Group EMDR allows participants to process memories privately while still benefiting from the group setting.

How many sessions are needed?

Most Group EMDR programs run for 4–8 sessions, depending on participants’ goals and needs.

Is it as effective as individual EMDR?

Yes, Group EMDR can be highly effective, especially for shared experiences and mutual support.

Is it covered by insurance?

Coverage varies by provider—check with your insurance or facilitator for details.

Can Group EMDR be done online?

Yes, many therapists offer secure and effective Group EMDR sessions virtually.

Is Group EMDR safe for people with complex trauma?

Yes — Group EMDR can be safe for people with complex trauma when sessions focus on stabilization and are led by a trained EMDR therapist.

Find Recovery Options Offering Group EMDR

Healing together is powerful. Group EMDR (G-TEP / EMDR-IGTP) helps communities and individuals recover from trauma in supportive, structured group settings.

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About TruPath's Recommendations

Recommendations are based on your location and recovery needs, including the programs you've explored, the services you've saved, and the filters you've used. We use this information to highlight similar treatment options so you never miss a trusted path forward.

Group Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (G-TEP / EMDR-IGTP)