Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has emerged as an effective treatment approach for various mental health conditions, particularly trauma and PTSD. The therapy helps patients develop new neural pathways and associations, effectively “rewiring” their brain’s response to triggering situations or memories. While the process has proven rewarding for patients, its relatively new applications in mental health treatment means many people undergoing the process do not know what to expect in an EMDR session.
Research has shown that EMDR can be particularly effective for individuals who struggle to verbalize their traumatic experiences, as it doesn’t require extensive verbal processing of the trauma. The structured nature of EMDR therapy for trauma or other conditions provides patients with a sense of control over their healing process, while the presence of a trained therapist ensures they have support throughout their journey of processing difficult experiences. This article will go into more detail about how the EMDR process for mental health works and how it can benefit patients.
What to Expect in the First Session of EMDR?
During the first EMDR session, a therapist will typically begin by taking a comprehensive history of your experiences and concerns, similar to traditional therapy. They will work with patients to identify specific memories, thoughts, or situations that cause distress and help them develop coping strategies to manage any emotional intensity that may arise during future sessions. The therapist will also assess whether EMDR is the appropriate treatment approach for your particular situation and discuss any concerns or questions you might have about the therapy.
During EMDR treatment for PTSD or other conditions, patients focus on distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, typically through guided eye movements, which appears to help the brain process and integrate traumatic experiences in a way that reduces their emotional intensity. This therapeutic approach can lead to significant reductions in symptoms like flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety, often in a shorter time frame than traditional talk therapy alone.
This initial session often includes practicing self-soothing techniques and establishing a “safe place,” a calming mental image patients can return to feeling overwhelmed during the process. Many patients report feeling a sense of relief and emotional freedom after EMDR treatment, as memories that once caused intense distress become less overwhelming and more manageable.
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How Do I Prepare for an EMDR Session?
Before attending an EMDR session, it’s helpful to wear comfortable clothing and ensure you’ve had adequate rest, as the therapy can be emotionally demanding. Consider scheduling your session at a time when you won’t need to immediately return to work or engage in stressful activities afterward, as you may feel emotionally sensitive or tired following treatment.
It’s also beneficial to practice any self-soothing or grounding techniques your therapist has taught you, such as deep breathing exercises or visualization of your safe place. Some patients find it helpful to journal about their thoughts and feelings before the session, which can help identify specific memories or triggers they want to address.
Try to arrive a few minutes early to settle yourself and transition from your daily activities to a more focused state of mind. Avoid consuming excessive caffeine before your session, as this can increase anxiety and make it harder to concentrate.
It’s also important to communicate with your therapist about any significant changes or stressors in your life that might impact the session, as well as any concerns or questions that have arisen since your last meeting. Remember that EMDR can bring up intense emotions, especially if it’s for trauma or PTSD treatment. However, you’re in control of the process and can take breaks or slow down if needed.
Is EMDR Hard at First?
EMDR can indeed be challenging at first for several reasons. Many people report feeling vulnerable or uncertain during initial sessions as they confront difficult memories or emotions they’ve worked hard to avoid. The stimulation process might feel strange or awkward initially. Some patients find it takes time to get comfortable with following eye movements or using other forms of stimulation while focusing on distressing thoughts.
You might experience heightened emotions or physical sensations both during and after early sessions. This is completely normal and part of the processing experience, though it can feel overwhelming at first. Some people also describe feeling tired or emotionally drained after sessions, similar to how you might feel after an intense workout.
However, these initial challenges typically become more manageable as treatment continues. Most people find that working with their therapist to establish coping strategies and a “safe place” helps them feel more secure and in control of the process. Patients can always ask to slow down or take breaks, and the therapist will work at a pace that feels comfortable for them.
What Not to Do After EMDR?
After an EMDR session, it’s important to avoid scheduling demanding activities or making major life decisions, as your emotional processing may continue for hours or even days afterward. Don’t push yourself to immediately return to high-stress situations or rigorous work commitments, as your mind and body need time to integrate the therapeutic experience.
It’s also best to avoid consuming alcohol or other substances that might interfere with your natural processing or mask any emotions that need to be acknowledged and worked through. Additionally, resist the urge to analyze or judge whatever emotions or memories may surface following your session, as trying to control or suppress these experiences can hinder the natural healing process.
Avoid isolating yourself completely or, conversely, overwhelming yourself with too much social interaction immediately after a session. While it’s natural to want to discuss your experience, it’s best not to engage in detailed conversations about your EMDR session with people who might not understand the process or provide appropriate support.
It’s also not to skip meals or neglect basic self-care, as your body needs nourishment and rest to support the emotional work you’re doing. Also, avoid scheduling back-to-back appointments or commitments that might prevent you from taking the time you need to process and reflect. Finally, don’t invalidate or dismiss any emotions or physical sensations that arise; these are normal parts of the healing process and deserve acknowledgment and acceptance.
Contact Moment of Clarity for More Details on What to Expect in an EMDR Session
Knowing what to expect in an EMDR session can put patients at ease as they attempt this therapy. Moment of Clarity features properly trained EMDR therapists who understand not only the technical aspects of the therapy but also how to create a safe, supportive environment for processing traumatic experiences.
EMDR therapy is not suitable for every patient, which is why Moment of Clarity offers individualized treatment plans. We work with each patient to recognize when EMDR is appropriate, how to modify the approach based on individual needs, and how to handle any complications that may arise during treatment.
The therapists at our outpatient treatment centers for mental health in California will make you feel heard and understood while maintaining professional boundaries and demonstrating a clear understanding of trauma’s impact on the brain and body. Please call Moment of Clarity at 949-625-0564 today to explore our mental health treatment services.
External Sources
- National Library of Medicine – The Role of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy in Medicine
- Cleveland Clinic – EMDR Therapy
- National Library of Medicine – Clinical Efficiency and Acceptability of EMDR and MOSAIC Therapy for PTSD
