Are Tabs Safe to Use Without a Therapist?

Dharma Dr Tabs were designed to support EMDR and bilateral stimulation in professional and personal settings. Many people ask if it’s safe to use the Tabs without direct therapist supervision. This article explains what you need to know.

Safety Overview

• Yes, they can be used safely on their own — The Tabs provide non-invasive bilateral stimulation (lights, vibration, audio) with no harmful effects under normal use.
• Independent sessions — Many customers use the Tabs for self-guided relaxation, mindfulness, or personal EMDR practice outside of therapy sessions.
• Therapist guidance — For clinical EMDR treatment, it is strongly recommended to work with a licensed EMDR therapist for structure, pacing, and integration.

When Independent Use May Be Helpful

• Relaxation and stress management at home
• Practicing bilateral stimulation techniques learned in therapy
• Mindfulness or grounding exercises

When to Use With a Therapist

• If you are working through trauma or complex emotional material
• If you’re unsure how to structure EMDR sessions properly
• If you experience distress or strong reactions during independent sessions

Tips & Best Practices

• Start with short, gentle sessions when using independently.
• Use lower vibration and light intensity if you are sensitive to stimulation.
• If you feel overwhelmed, stop your session and return to it later or discuss with your therapist.

Important Reminder

The Tabs are a tool — they do not replace therapy. Licensed EMDR therapists provide structure, safety, and clinical expertise that the hardware and app alone cannot.

Related Articles

• Are the Tabs Safe for Children & Teens?
• Can My Therapist Control My Tabs Remotely?
• What Makes Dharma Dr Different from Other EMDR Tools?