EMDR Side Effects – What to Expect During and After Therapy.
EMDR is safe and evidence-based, but like all therapies, it can bring temporary side effects as the brain processes trauma. Most are mild and short-lived.
Common EMDR Side Effects
- Emotional waves → Feeling sad, anxious, or irritable after sessions.
- Vivid dreams → Brain continues processing at night.
- Fatigue → Emotional work can feel draining.
- Increased awareness → Memories or sensations may surface between sessions.
Why Do Side Effects Happen?
EMDR activates the brain’s natural healing process. As traumatic material is reprocessed, emotional “stirring” is normal.
Rare or More Intense Reactions
- Strong emotional flooding.
- Dissociation (feeling detached).
- New memories surfacing unexpectedly.
These are rare and usually managed with grounding techniques.
Safety Measures Therapists Use
- Preparation phase includes coping skills training.
- Therapists monitor distress with a “Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS).”
- Sessions close with grounding and safety exercises.
What to Do If Side Effects Feel Overwhelming
- Use grounding tools (5-4-3-2-1 method, journaling).
- Contact your therapist between sessions.
- Remember: discomfort usually means your brain is doing the work of healing.
⚠️ Disclaimer: Always discuss side effects with your therapist to ensure your safety.
