What to Expect in EMDR Therapy

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a powerful therapy designed to help you heal from trauma and emotional distress. Here's what to expect during the process:

■ The 8 Phases of EMDR

• 1. History Taking
  We talk about your background, current struggles, and goals. This helps us tailor EMDR to your needs.
• 2. Preparation
  You’ll learn resourcing tools like Safe Place, Butterfly Hug, and grounding techniques to help you stay regulated.
• 3. Assessment
  We identify the target memory and connect it to thoughts, emotions, and body sensations.
• 4. Desensitization
  Bilateral stimulation (like tapping or eye movements) is used to reduce the emotional intensity of the memory.
• 5. Installation
  We strengthen a positive belief that replaces the old, negative one (e.g., “I am safe now.”)
• 6. Body Scan
  We check your body for leftover tension and clear it using more bilateral stimulation if needed.
• 7. Closure
  We end every session with resourcing, calming, and a return to safety.
• 8. Reevaluation
  At the start of the next session, we check in to see how you’re doing and adjust our focus.

■ Important Notes

• You are always in control.
• You can pause or stop at any time.
• Healing is a process — we go at your pace.

You are not alone. EMDR helps your brain process and heal so you can live more freely in the present.