Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an unusual but highly effective form of psychotherapy treatment. Rather than an ongoing process of talk therapy, EMDR can be a short-term approach that involves eye and hand movements, if you’re only dealing with one trauma. If your trauma has attachment wounds, the therapy takes longer. The therapist helps you ease into a state that is similar to Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep.
In this state, clients find they are better able to confront and resolve negative memories and thought patterns. Bearing all this in mind, a good first step in preparing yourself is to learn a little more about EMDR. To follow are other suggestions for making the most of your EMDR treatment.
As Your EMDR Session Nears and Arrives
For starters, schedule the treatment on a day that will be as mellow as possible. It’s ideal if the following day can be quiet, too, but I realize this might be challenging to plan. Either way, try your best to clear out as much space as possible both before and after the session. After you’ve had an EMDR session or two, you’ll be better positioned to discern your needs.
Other Suggestions:
Don’t Overthink It
Let the power of EMDR happen as naturally as you can. Each person experiences it differently so stay open and curious.
Practice Relaxation Techniques
In the days or weeks before your first session, get into the habit of engaging in meditation, breathing exercises, yoga, and other forms of stress management. These activities stimulate the brain and set you up for EMDR success. Part of what I do is to teach you ways to relax and handle stress as part of the process before we process the difficult memory.
Practice Gratitude
This is another way to prepare your mind to transition from a negative to a positive mindset. Keep a gratitude journal and keep track of anything — big or small — for which you are thankful.
Talk to Your Support System
Let them know that you’re about to start EMDR and ask if they can be relied on to talk if needed. If you don’t have people you want to lean on, this is where therapy is essential (see below). EMDR may stir up some old memories and thus, some unpleasant emotions. Your therapist is a valuable ally when doing this work.
After Your EMDR Sessions
If you experience side effects from EMDR, they are not like those connected to medications. Basically, prepare yourself for any of the following:
Remembering some uncomfortable memories: Even if you didn’t focus on them during treatment, related memories may resurface.
Intense emotions: The feelings associated with the memories or thought patterns don’t just turn off when the session ends. You may need a little time to regulate yourself afterward.
Vivid dreams: As your brain reprocesses your perception of your past, it may be reflected in your dreams.
Physical sensations: These are rare but you may experience muscle aches or tension after your early sessions.
You Probably Still Have Questions!
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is rapidly gaining traction because it’s a short-term treatment with a stellar track record. But, since it’s unlike traditional therapies, it makes a whole lot of sense to do your homework and consult with an expert.
If you are considering EMDR Therapy, I invite you to reach out for more information. Let’s connect for a free and confidential consultation and get you started on the path toward healing. For more information on the process, please read an earlier blog on the stages of EMDR on the EMDR page.