If you’re considering EMDR Therapy or have just completed your first session, it’s natural to wonder what comes next and how you might feel.
The experience of an EMDR session can be quite profound, often leading to significant changes in how you feel and perceive your past. After a session at The Therapy Hub, it’s common for clients to experience a range of emotions and physical sensations (such as tingling, warmth, or a sense of release) reflecting the deep processing that has taken place.
Immediately following a session, many individuals report feeling a sense of relief and a reduction in the distress associated with their memories. This emotional lightness can be accompanied by a greater sense of clarity and perspective about past events. However, it’s also normal to feel a bit emotionally raw or tired, as the brain continues to process the information.
Some folks may experience vivid dreams or increased emotional sensitivity in the days following their session. These reactions are part of the brain’s natural healing process and typically diminish as the new insights and emotional responses become integrated. It’s important to allow yourself time to rest and reflect after a session, as this can help solidify the therapeutic gains. Engaging in light physical activities like yoga, going for a walk, or even spending time in nature can help you process your emotions.
Your therapist at The Therapy Hub will provide you with coping strategies to manage any strong emotions that arise and will encourage you to engage in self-care activities. This could include journaling about your experiences, practising mindfulness or relaxation techniques, and ensuring you have a supportive environment around you.
Remember, each person’s response to EMDR can be different. Some may feel immediate and dramatic relief, while others might experience more subtle changes that unfold over time. It’s essential to maintain open communication with your therapist about how you’re feeling so that they can tailor the ongoing treatment to your needs.
How long do these feelings last?
The duration of post-session feelings varies for everyone. Many clients find that emotional intensity or physical sensations, such as tiredness or sensitivity, lessen within a few days as the brain integrates the work done during the session. Some reactions, like vivid dreams or emotional insights, might persist for a week or more as your brain continues its healing process. Documenting any triggers, intrusive thoughts, or dreams in the days following your session can help you track these experiences and discuss them with your therapist at your next appointment.
What if I feel overwhelmed?
Feeling overwhelmed can happen as your brain continues to process emotions and memories after a session. Use grounding techniques such as deep breathing, mindfulness, or light activities like journaling to calm your mind. Documenting your thoughts and feelings can also help you make sense of them. Your therapist may have provided an “After EMDR” worksheet or similar tool to note down triggers, memories, or emotions that arise. Bringing this information to your next session ensures these experiences are addressed. If the feelings become too strong, use your calming strategies and take time to rest.
When should I contact my therapist after a session?
If your emotions feel unmanageable or you’re experiencing distress that doesn’t ease with self-care or calming strategies, it’s important to contact your therapist. Likewise, if intrusive thoughts or emotional reactions feel overwhelming or concerning, reach out for additional support. Bringing a record of your experiences to your next session helps your therapist tailor ongoing care to your needs.
How to Document Your Triggers and Intrusive Thoughts
- Keep it Simple
Use a journal or a worksheet from your therapist to record what comes up after your EMDR session. Focus on three main areas:- The Day and Trigger: Note when it happened and what triggered it, like a memory, conversation, or image.
- What You Experienced: Jot down any thoughts, feelings, dreams, or physical sensations.
- Your Emotional Response: Briefly describe how it made you feel—upset, reflective, or calm.
- Use Calming Strategies
If something feels overwhelming, practise calming techniques like deep breathing or mindfulness. Write down which strategies helped. - Bring Your Notes to Therapy
Share these insights with your therapist to help guide your next session.
If you’d like to learn more about EMDR Therapy at The Therapy Hub get in touch.
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