Beginner's Guide to EMDR Part 2: FAQs

Welcome back! Here, I’ll address some common questions about EMDR. If you haven’t already, visit this link to read Part 1 for more context and background on EMDR.

Who can benefit from EMDR? 

EMDR treats a variety of issues effectively. Historically, it has been marketed specifically towards treating what is commonly referred to as “Big T” trauma (experiences such as combat, domestic violence, physical abuse, assault, etc.). EMDR effectively reduces PTSD and related symptoms resulting from these types of traumas.

However, traumatic experiences are not limited to life-threatening events. EMDR also addresses relational and attachment wounds, often occurring in childhood, such as inconsistent caregiving and emotional neglect, parental substance abuse, growing up in a high-conflict home, or bullying. It effectively addresses low self-worth, anxiety, perfectionism, depression, low self-esteem, and more.

A few common themes that have come up in EMDR work with clients:

• Cycles of consistent negative self-talk and internal criticism

• Difficulty controlling anger or shutting down during conflict

• Low self worth and never feeling “good enough”

• Persistent guilt around prioritizing your own needs

Is EMDR Therapy effective using telehealth?

EMDR therapy works effectively both in-person and virtually. Having worked with clients in both settings, I have seen EMDR be effective in each. When meeting via telehealth, we have multiple options for bilateral stimulation, such as on-screen visual cues, auditory tones through headphones, or guided self-tapping techniques. While the virtual format requires some adjustments, it maintains the core elements of EMDR therapy, ensuring you receive the same quality of care and benefit from the treatment.

What is the role of bilateral stimulation in EMDR?

Bilateral stimulation (BLS) is a key element of EMDR. During EMDR sessions, BLS typically involves alternating eye movements, taps, or auditory tones, engaging both hemispheres of the brain. Research is still trying to pinpoint why BLS helps process trauma. One working theory is that it functions similarly to REM sleep, allowing your brain to process and integrate experiences from your day.

BLS is used during two points in the EMDR process: the resourcing/preparation phase (phase 2) and throughout phases 4-6. During the resourcing phase, slower sets link positive feelings associated with grounding resources. During phase 4, faster sets help desensitize the upsetting feelings connected to the memory. By stimulating both sides of the brain, BLS assists in accessing and reorganizing traumatic memories, allowing you to reframe negative experiences, leading to reduced symptoms and improved mental health.

How long does EMDR Therapy last? 

Your EMDR therapy experience depends on factors like your history and therapy goals. Clients often report feeling better in a shorter period compared to traditional talk therapy. EMDR is also unique because you don’t have to share details of past traumas, helping to prevent overwhelm and retraumatization.

Are there any side effects of EMDR? 

EMDR will bring up painful traumas and memories. It’s not uncommon for other related memories or thoughts to arise between sessions. We leave time at the end of each EMDR session to practice any grounding you may need so you’re not leaving a session feeling dysregulated.

 I also work with you so you feel empowered to practice the tools we’ve developed together outside of sessions should any distress arise. If you struggle more acutely with emotional regulation and/or substance use, we can discuss and practice additional resources to help you feel safe throughout your EMDR therapy experience.

Does EMDR alter your memory?

After EMDR, clients report the reprocessed memory feels more objective or factual and no longer has the same emotional charge. EMDR work won’t alter your memory, but it will change how you look back on your past experiences so they no longer feel triggering or activating.

What should I do to prepare for an EMDR session? 

Much of the preparation for phase 4 EMDR work happens during therapy sessions. I may encourage clients to practice any resourcing and grounding tools we have developed together in between sessions using slow, gentle tapping. This can help you relax before sleep or practice regulating during times of stress. After we begin phase 3, I’ll have clients note any new thoughts about the memory or other associated memories that come up between sessions.

How do I know if I’m doing it “right?”

I know EMDR can feel kind of weird when you first try it. Because of this, it’s normal to wonder if you’re “doing it right.” There is no “wrong” way to do EMDR; what I always tell clients is that your brain will do what it needs to do. It may need some guidance or help every so often getting back on track, and that’s where I come in. Letting your brain be your guide is the best thing you can do! 

Ready to start EMDR work? I’d love to connect with you!