Question 1

What makes gentle trauma therapy different from regular talking therapy?

Accepted Answer

With gentle trauma therapy such as IEMT, you do not have to discuss a difficult memory in detail or relive it. The method uses targeted eye movements to reduce the emotional charge of a memory, without you having to tell the story in detail. This makes it more accessible for people who are afraid of feeling everything again, or who have previously felt stuck in long-term talking therapy.

Question 2

Is IEMT suitable for me if I have been struggling with lingering emotions for years?

Accepted Answer

Yes, IEMT is often used specifically with people who have been struggling with the same patterns or emotions for a long time. Whether it involves a particular memory, recurring anxiety or deeply rooted beliefs about yourself, IEMT offers a short-term, structured approach. An initial exploratory study (Journal of Evidence-Based Psychotherapies, 2026) shows that eye movements can significantly reduce the emotional charge of negative memories. Results vary from person to person; there are no guarantees.

Question 3

What happens during an online session at Ik wil verandering?

Accepted Answer

Sessions take place entirely online by video call, with no special software needed. The initial consultation lasts 60 minutes and costs €100 excl. VAT, payable via Stripe. Janine, a certified IEMT practitioner, guides you step by step. There is no need to travel; you can simply take part from your own familiar surroundings, which already removes a barrier for many people.

Question 4

Can gentle trauma processing also help with fears and phobias?

Accepted Answer

Alongside trauma processing, IEMT is also used for fears, phobias and emotional triggers. The method goes beyond memories alone: it can also address beliefs and identity patterns that underlie persistent anxiety. You will discuss whether this could work for you during the initial consultation. If your symptoms are severe or acute, it is always wise to consult your GP as well.

Question 5

How quickly might I notice a difference with a more focused, less demanding approach such as IEMT?

Accepted Answer

Some people notice a change in how they experience a memory or emotion during or immediately after the first session. Others need more sessions. IEMT is a short-term method, but the pace varies from person to person and from issue to issue. Results are not guaranteed. What most people appreciate is that the process itself does not feel like having to confront what troubles them all over again.

Aspect	Traditional talking therapy	EMDR	IEMT
Talking about the past	In depth and repeatedly	Limited, but still involved	Minimal discussion required
Focus	Insight and meaning	Traumatic memory	Emotion, memory and belief
Addressing beliefs	Through conversation	Limited	An integral part of the method
Session length	Often a long-term process	Multiple sessions	Short-term and structured
Available online	Sometimes	Sometimes	Fully online

Freedom from lingering pain, without reliving it endlessly

What you need to know

Why can talking about trauma feel like going through it all again?

What makes IEMT a gentle way to process trauma?

Who is this approach suitable for, and when do I refer you elsewhere?

Explore each topic in more depth

Online trauma therapy: what can you expect when you first start?

Clinical trauma treatment is not the only path: what alternatives are available?

How do you process an emotional trigger that keeps coming back?

Frequently asked questions

Ready to let something go?