What to Expect

The therapist will conduct an assessment to gather information about the client's history, symptoms, and trauma experiences. They will also explain the EMDR process and answer any questions the client may have. This is a crucial step in establishing trust and ensuring the client feels comfortable and prepared for the therapy.

Together with the therapist, the client identifies the specific distressing memory or target to be addressed during the session. This could be an event or experience that is contributing to their emotional difficulties.

The client will be asked to recall the distressing memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, such as alternating audio sounds. The bilateral stimulation continues for a specific duration.

During the bilateral stimulation, the client might experience various thoughts, emotions, physical sensations, or images related to the traumatic memory. The therapist will guide the client to explore these experiences and then encourage them to consider more adaptive and positive thoughts or beliefs to replace negative beliefs associated with the trauma.