What to Expect After Your First EMDR Session
If you’ve just completed your first EMDR (eye movement desensitization and reprocessing) session, you may be wondering what comes next. After all, there are some significant differences between it and traditional talk therapy.
Your first session likely focused on preparation rather than diving into trauma work. You may have identified target memories or experiences to address in future sessions and learned grounding techniques to stay safe during the process. You might have even practiced the eye movements or other forms of bilateral stimulation to get comfortable.
It can feel like you haven’t done real work yet, but this initial session is crucial. It helps you understand the process and lays the foundation for deeper work in the weeks to come.
How Your Mind and Body React After EMDR
After your first EMDR session, you may notice some unexpected reactions. Feeling emotionally drained or even slightly off-balance is common. Think of it like starting physical therapy for an old injury; your brain is beginning to engage with material that has been “stuck” for a long time, and even subtle activity requires energy.
Some people notice vivid dreams or memories popping up more often than usual in the days following a session. You might feel more sensitive to situations that remind you of past experiences or notice that certain emotions seem stronger or more confusing.
These reactions are part of the brain beginning to process experiences that have been frozen in time. These sensations are a normal part of the therapeutic journey, and they’re temporary.
Supporting Your Mind and Body
Taking care of yourself after an EMDR session is essential. Prioritize rest, as your brain continues processing memories and emotions during sleep. Getting the recommended seven to nine hours supports both emotional regulation and memory integration.
Stay connected to your body through gentle movement, whether that’s walking, stretching, or your usual workout routine. EMDR has a somatic component, meaning it works not only with how trauma is stored in your mind but also in your body.
It’s also wise not to overcommit yourself immediately after a session. Allow some downtime and avoid diving straight into demanding tasks or high-stress environments. Giving your mind and body space to integrate what has begun in therapy can make a real difference in how effective your sessions will be.
Subtle Shifts in How You Feel
You may notice subtle shifts in your perception or in how you relate to certain experiences. Feeling a bit spacey or sensing that things are slightly “off” is actually a sign your brain is reorganizing information and forming new neural pathways.
It’s equally normal if you don’t notice much at all. Your first session was largely preparatory. Deeper processing usually happens in subsequent sessions as you and your therapist begin working through specific memories and experiences. Each session builds on the last, allowing your brain to gradually integrate what was once too overwhelming to handle.
Moving Ahead with EMDR Therapy
Between now and your next session, keeping a journal of dreams, emotional reactions, and memories that surface can be helpful for future sessions. If you experience significant distress between appointments, reach out to your therapist for guidance in using grounding techniques. They can help you navigate challenging moments safely.
Your brain has a remarkable ability to integrate difficult experiences when supported by the structured process of EMDR. With consistency, you can begin to notice real changes in how you respond to the trauma you have experienced in the past.
The continuity of EMDR therapy is essential for safely processing that trauma and re-establishing emotional balance. Integrating the techniques you’re learning with your unique personal history provides vital insight and guides you toward healing. Get in contact to learn more about how EMDR can help you on your journey.