EMDR in Telemental Health Counseling for Healthcare Workers Caring for COVID-19 Patients: A Pilot Study

This study tested a brief, remote EMDR therapy session to support healthcare workers experiencing stress during COVID-19. In a small group, a single online session significantly reduced anxiety, depression, and emotional distress, with improvements lasting at least one week. Participants also reported feeling generally satisfied and safe with remote therapy. While fear related to work risks remained, emotional coping improved. The findings suggest that short, early mental health interventions delivered remotely can help stabilize frontline staff during crises and may prevent longer-term psychological harm, though larger studies are needed to confirm results.