what happens when you do emdr therapy?
EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) is different for everyone.
If you aren’t super familiar with EMDR, check out my post about what it is and how it works here.
But this post will talk about common experiences you may have if you choose to do EMDR therapy.
Things might get worse before they get better.
In EMDR, your brain does most of the work. Processing trauma does not happen overnight, and sessions are typically not long enough to entirely process a trauma in one go.
Between sessions, you may gain new insights into memories, experiences, or emotions. Revisiting traumatic experiences can make things feel worse.
EMDR therapists ensure you have grounding and coping mechanisms to use outside of sessions.
You may have mood swings
You may experience sudden bursts of sadness, fear, anger, frustration, relief, etc. This is normal.
You and your brain are processing something difficult. Be compassionate with yourself and engage in a little extra self-care.
Self-care could include reading a book, watching a movie you enjoy, listening to music, taking a bath, doing something creative, attending a yoga class, meditating, allowing yourself to sleep in a little, or whatever works for you.
You may feel new sensations in your body
Trauma is stored in our bodies in various ways. As you start to release trauma, you may notice new sensations like tingling, warmth, or tension. Take note of these sensations and discuss them with your therapist if you find it helpful. Remember, this is a normal part of the process.
It's also normal if you don't notice new sensations.
4. You might have new vivid memories
As you process traumas or experiences, you may recall memories. These memories may also undergo changes, becoming more vivid and feeling more real during a processing session.
If you find that you are unable to continue processing a memory during a session, don’t hesitate to use your stop signal.
5. You might experience cognitive shifts
The purpose of EMDR is to help you form positive associations with past experiences that were once traumatic. As you progress through EMDR, you may start to feel a sense of relief and calmness.
The traumatic memories lose their emotional charge, leading to a reduction in symptoms such as anxiety and hypervigilance.
If you are experiencing distress, please reach out to your therapist. If your therapist is unavailable, there are resources available. In the U.S., please call 911 for emergencies and 211 for all other services.
It's also important to note that EMDR sessions can sometimes bring up unexpected emotions or memories. This is a normal part of the process as your brain works through past traumas. Don't hesitate to discuss any concerns or experiences with your therapist during your sessions. They are there to support you through this journey of healing.
