What to Expect from EMDR Therapy

Two women talk in EMDR therapy session

In the journey towards emotional well-being, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy stands out as a transformative approach to healing. Developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro, EMDR has gained prominence for its efficacy in addressing trauma and anxiety. 

But what exactly happens in an EMDR therapy session? And how can it help you? Let’s dive into what you can expect from EMDR therapy and how it might just be the key to unlocking a more balanced and fulfilling life.

What is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR therapy is a structured approach designed to help individuals process and integrate distressing memories and emotions. It’s grounded in the idea that trauma and negative experiences can become “stuck” in our minds, causing ongoing emotional distress and affecting our daily lives. EMDR aims to reprocess these memories so that they no longer hold the same power over us.

EMDR Therapy typically involves an eight-phase approach. This includes history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation. Each phase plays a crucial role in ensuring that the therapy is comprehensive and tailored to your unique needs.

What to Expect in an EMDR Therapy Session

1. Preparation and Safety

Your journey begins with a foundational phase where you’ll meet your EMDR therapist and discuss your goals and concerns. This phase is all about building a safe and trusting therapeutic relationship. Your therapist will explain the EMDR process, and together you’ll identify the memories or issues you want to address.

2. Establishing Coping Strategies

Before diving into processing traumatic memories, your therapist will work with you to develop coping strategies and relaxation techniques. These tools are essential for managing any emotional discomfort that may arise during the sessions.

3. Targeting Distressing Memories

Once you’re prepared, the focus shifts to identifying the specific memories that are causing you distress. Your therapist will help you pinpoint these memories and understand their impact on your current thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.

4. The Desensitization Phase

This is where the magic of EMDR happens. You’ll be guided to focus on the distressing memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation—typically through guided eye movements, though tapping or auditory tones can also be used. This process helps your brain reprocess the memory, reducing its emotional charge and allowing you to view it in a more balanced way.

5. Installing Positive Beliefs

As the distress around the memory lessens, your therapist will help you replace negative beliefs with positive ones. For example, if you previously felt unworthy or unsafe, you might work towards embracing beliefs like “I am deserving of love” or “I am safe now.”

6. Body Scan and Integration

EMDR doesn’t just address the mind; it also considers the body. You’ll undergo a body scan to identify and process any residual physical tension associated with the memory. This helps ensure that the memory is fully integrated into your overall sense of well-being.

7. Closure and Reflection

At the end of each session, your therapist will guide you through a process of closure to help you transition back to your daily life. This phase involves grounding exercises and reflecting on any insights gained during the session.

8. Re-evaluation

In subsequent sessions, you and your therapist will review your progress and address any remaining or new concerns. This ongoing evaluation helps ensure that the therapeutic process remains effective for your evolving needs.

EMDR therapy offers a structured yet deeply personalized approach to healing. It’s not about rehashing painful memories without purpose; it’s about transforming those memories into sources of strength and resilience. Through the process, many individuals find that their once-overwhelming emotions become more manageable, and their sense of self grows stronger.

Ready to explore how EMDR therapy can support your journey toward healing and self-discovery?

Your path to a more peaceful and empowered life could be just a session away. Our mission at Serene Mind Counseling is to cultivate a space where clients can feel heard, understood, and empowered in their journey towards healing. Contact us today to schedule your consultation for EMDR therapy in Mesa, Arizona or online.