Introduction: Bringing Bilateral Stimulation to Life
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is one of the most powerful trauma-processing approaches available — but it’s also one of the most tool-driven.
From tappers and light bars to therapist-guided worksheets, the right EMDR tools help clients stay grounded, track progress, and safely reprocess distressing memories.
Whether you run an in-person practice or hybrid sessions, this post covers the top EMDR tools for therapists — including physical devices, digital aids, and printable worksheets you can start using today.
Section 1: The Role of Tools in EMDR Therapy
EMDR combines cognitive, emotional, and physiological components. The tools are designed to:
- Support bilateral stimulation (BLS) — alternating left/right activation of the body or senses
- Help clients stay within their Window of Tolerance
- Provide structure, containment, and tracking through each phase of EMDR
The right tools can make sessions smoother, more regulated, and more engaging — especially for clients who struggle with dissociation, emotional flooding, or grounding.
Section 2: Physical EMDR Tools
🟢 1. EMDR Tappers
Hand-held vibration devices alternate pulses between the left and right hand to stimulate bilateral activity.
Popular options:
- TheraTapper — classic wired model used in clinics worldwide.
- Neurotek Tappers — adjustable intensity and speed.
- EMDR Kit Wireless Tappers — Bluetooth, rechargeable, and portable.
Why use them:
- Help clients focus when visual tracking is tiring.
- Quiet — ideal for telehealth or noise-sensitive environments.
🔵 2. EMDR Light Bars
Light bars provide visual bilateral stimulation through moving lights.
Benefits:
- Adjustable brightness and speed.
- Highly effective for visual processors.
- Can combine with audio and tactile BLS.
Common options:
- EMDR Kit Light Bar (Bluetooth)
- RemotEMDR Light Bar (for online sessions)
🟣 3. EMDR Audio BLS Systems
Alternating tones via headphones deliver auditory stimulation — perfect for clients who close their eyes or have limited mobility.
Examples:
- EMDR Remote (web app for telehealth)
- EMDR Audio Player (for in-office sessions)
🎧 Tip: Always test sound levels before starting reprocessing.
🟡 4. EMDR Buzzers and Wearables
Small wireless buzzers can be placed in hands or pockets, or worn as ankle straps.
They’re portable and great for group EMDR intensives or community clinics.
Why therapists love them:
- Hands-free, subtle, and adjustable.
- Reduce fatigue during longer sessions.
Section 3: Digital EMDR Tools
💻 1. Remote EMDR Platforms
For online sessions, therapists can use apps that replicate physical tools through the screen.
Top options:
- RemotEMDR – browser-based BLS with adjustable light bar, tones, and tappers.
- EMDR Cloud – secure video + BLS integration.
- Easy EMDR – visual + auditory BLS for telehealth.
Advantages:
- HIPAA-compliant.
- No hardware required.
- Allows consistent session flow online.
📱 2. EMDR Apps for Therapists
Many apps provide simple, portable BLS tools for practice or client homework.
Examples:
- Bilateral Stimulation App (iOS/Android)
- EMDR 101 App – guides, timers, and practice tracking.
Use these for demonstrations, desensitization, or psychoeducation between sessions.
Section 4: EMDR Worksheets and Resources
EMDR isn’t only about the stimulation — it’s also about processing, reflection, and integration.
That’s where structured worksheets come in.
🧩 Therapist-Approved EMDR Worksheets from Therapy Courses
1. EMDR Phase-by-Phase Worksheet Pack
Helps clients understand and track each EMDR phase:
- History & Target Assessment
- Preparation (Safe Place + Grounding)
- Desensitization Tracking Log
- Reprocessing Reflections
- Future Template Worksheet
🧠 Perfect for introducing EMDR gently to new clients.
Get our EMDR Worksheet Bundle
2. Safe & Calm Place Worksheet
Used during the preparation phase to anchor clients in sensory safety.
Prompts include visualization, sensory description, and positive resource building.
3. SUDs & VOC Tracker Sheet
Printable chart to record Subjective Units of Distress (SUDs) and Validity of Cognition (VOC) scores during sessions.
Helps clients visualize progress in real time.
4. EMDR Post-Session Reflection Journal
Encourages integration after sessions through reflection prompts:
- What came up for me?
- What sensations did I notice?
- What feels lighter or resolved?
5. Therapist Companion Sheets
Quick-reference templates for clinicians:
- Phase tracking checklist
- Cue sheet for reprocessing
- Emergency grounding prompts
All worksheets are available in the EMDR Worksheet Bundle — designed for easy in-session use or digital completion.
Section 5: Building an EMDR Toolkit That Fits Your Practice
Your ideal EMDR toolkit will depend on your setting:
| Setting | Recommended Tools |
|---|---|
| In-Person Clinic | Light bar + tappers + printed worksheets |
| Telehealth Practice | Remote EMDR software + PDF worksheets |
| Group or Intensive Setting | Buzzers + projector bar + SUDs tracking sheets |
| Mobile/Outreach | Handheld tappers + grounding cards + journal worksheets |
🧠 Start with what feels comfortable — one tactile tool, one digital aid, and one worksheet you can rely on.
Section 6: EMDR Tool Safety and Ethics
- Always explain each tool before use.
- Let clients choose their preferred stimulation type (visual, tactile, or auditory).
- Keep intensity and speed client-led.
- Use grounding before and after reprocessing.
- Avoid relying solely on tech — the therapeutic relationship is the true anchor.
Conclusion: Tools That Support Transformation
From hand-held tappers to trauma-safe worksheets, EMDR tools are simply extensions of what therapists already do — create safety, structure, and healing movement.
When you combine physical bilateral aids with guided reflection worksheets, you help clients process not just memories, but meaning.
Because EMDR is most powerful when it meets both the body and the mind.
✅ Next Step for Therapists:
Explore the EMDR Worksheet Bundle for Therapists — includes:
- Phase-by-Phase Workbook
- SUDs/VOC Trackers
- Safe Place & Reprocessing Worksheets
- Therapist Session Flow Sheets
Read more: