Starting Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy can feel exciting and intimidating. You may have heard how effective it is for treating PTSD, trauma, anxiety, and depression, but still wonder what actually happens during a session. EMDR is a robust and evidence-based approach that helps people process painful memories so they no longer control their emotions or reactions.
Whether you’re beginning EMDR to heal from trauma, ease anxiety, or find relief from emotional distress, knowing what to expect can help you feel grounded and confident before your first appointment.
What Happens During Your First EMDR Appointment
The first session with your therapist typically focuses on understanding your history and building trust. EMDR therapy is structured into eight distinct phases, and depending on your pace, these phases may unfold over several sessions spanning a few weeks or months.
The last blog post on How EMDR Therapy Helps Heal PTSD and Trauma explores these eight phases and how they guide the healing process.
What You’ll Experience in a Session
In your first few EMDR sessions, your therapist aims to help you feel comfortable and in control. You won’t be pushed to relive your trauma right away. Instead, they’ll take time to establish a foundation of safety and trust.
When active EMDR work begins, you’ll be guided to recall distressing memories while focusing on bilateral stimulation, like following your therapist’s finger movements with your eyes. Some therapists use auditory tones through headphones or soft taps on the hands. These techniques help your brain reprocess memories, reducing their emotional charge over time.
You won’t forget what happened, but the memories will lose their painful intensity. Many clients feel lighter, calmer, and more at peace after just a few sessions.
Key Benefits of EMDR Therapy
- Fast-Acting Results
EMDR is considered a brief psychotherapy because it often delivers noticeable improvements quickly. Many clients experience significant relief after just three sessions.
- Scientifically Proven Effectiveness
Research shows EMDR is one of the most evidence-based treatments for PTSD. Studies reveal that up to 84% of people with single-incident trauma experience significant symptom relief after only a few sessions.
- Supports Natural Healing
Just as the body heals from physical wounds, the mind can recover from emotional injuries. EMDR helps accelerate this natural healing process by activating the brain’s adaptive processing system, transforming distress into understanding and resilience.
How to Get the Most Out of EMDR
Acknowledge Your Nerves
Feeling anxious before your first session is entirely normal. EMDR can stir up uncomfortable emotions, but your therapist will never rush you. They’ll equip you with grounding tools to help you stay calm and in control every step of the way.
Be Open and Trust the Process
Healing happens faster when you allow yourself to be vulnerable. The more open and honest you are with your therapist, the more effective the sessions will be. Remember, you are always in charge—you can pause or stop anytime. EMDR works best when trust is built between you and your therapist.
Adopt Healthy Habits
Take care of your body and mind to support your therapy. Exercise regularly, practice mindfulness or meditation, and get enough rest. These habits can help you feel emotionally balanced and strengthen the effects of your EMDR work.
Taking the First Step Toward Healing
It’s perfectly okay to feel hesitant about starting EMDR. Most people do. But rest assured—your therapist is trained to guide you through every phase safely and compassionately. EMDR has helped countless individuals overcome trauma, anxiety, depression, and emotional pain that once felt impossible to manage.
The first step is often the hardest but also the most powerful. By beginning EMDR therapy, you choose to heal, reclaim your peace, and move forward confidently.
Talk to an EMDR therapist in London today. Your path toward emotional freedom starts with that single, courageous decision.
