Preparing for your first EMDR session
Preparation is not homework. It is mostly about planning the hours after the session rather than the hour itself.
Stabilisation comes before processing
Your first EMDR appointment is rarely processing. It is history-taking, target planning and building grounding skills. Processing begins when you can reliably settle yourself, which protects the work.
- Do not schedule anything demanding straight afterwards
- Eat beforehand — processing is physically tiring
- Bring water
- Have a low-stimulation plan for the evening
What the day after can feel like
Some clients feel lighter immediately. Others feel tired, dream vividly, or notice material surfacing over the following forty-eight hours. All of that is expected and is worked with at the next session.
You keep control throughout
There is an agreed stop signal. Sets are short. You can pause at any point, and no set continues past what you can hold.
Common questions
Should I write down the memory beforehand?+
Not necessary. Some find it useful; nobody is required to.
Can I drive home?+
Usually yes. If a session is heavy, allow time to settle before driving.
What if I cannot remember much?+
That is common and not a barrier. EMDR works with fragments and body sensations.
Plan the evening, not the hour
Any remaining questions can be answered on a free intro call.