Understanding the Risks and Side Effects of
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences.
Recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an effective treatment for reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by approximately 67%, EMDR can also address anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related conditions. While it offers significant benefits, like any therapeutic method, EMDR comes with potential risks and side effects.
The Risks & Side Effects
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach designed to help individuals process and heal from traumatic experiences.
Recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO) as an effective treatment for reducing symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) by approximately 67%, EMDR can also address anxiety, depression, and other trauma-related conditions. While it offers significant benefits, like any therapeutic method, EMDR comes with potential risks and side effects.
This article explores these aspects, including physical and mental effects, as well as common myths and misconceptions, to provide a balanced understanding of the therapy.
What is EMDR Therapy?
EMDR is a structured therapy that uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, to help individuals reprocess traumatic memories. The process aims to reduce the emotional intensity of these memories, enabling the brain to integrate them more adaptively.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, EMDR does not require detailed verbal recounting of traumatic events, which can make it appealing for those who find discussing trauma challenging. The therapy typically involves eight phases, including history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, and reprocessing, tailored to the individual’s needs.
Potential Side Effects Of EMDR Therapy
EMDR can evoke a range of mental and physical responses as it engages with deeply stored emotions and memories. These side effects are often temporary and part of the healing process, but they can be intense. Below are some common effects:
Mental Health SIDE EFFECTS
Emotional Distress
EMDR involves confronting traumatic memories, which can lead to feelings of sadness, fear, or anger during or after sessions. These emotions are typically part of processing trauma and often subside as therapy progresses. Practicing self-care and using coping strategies provided by the therapist can help manage this distress.
Vivid or Intense Dreams:
Some individuals experience vivid dreams following EMDR sessions, as the brain processes emotions and memories. These dreams may reflect themes related to the trauma being addressed. Discussing dream patterns with a therapist can provide insight into the healing process.
Feelings of Dissociation or Detachment
During sessions, some may experience temporary dissociation, a sense of disconnection from thoughts, memories, or identity. This can feel unsettling but is often a natural response to revisiting trauma. A skilled therapist will guide clients through these sensations to ensure safety.
Physical SIDE EFFECTS
Fatigue
EMDR can be mentally and emotionally taxing, leading to feelings of exhaustion during or after sessions. Resting and communicating significant fatigue to the therapist can help adjust the pacing of therapy.
Headaches
The eye movements used in EMDR may cause headaches in some individuals. Therapists can modify techniques, such as using tapping or auditory stimulation, to reduce this discomfort.
Other Physical Sensations:
Less commonly, individuals may experience nausea, dizziness, or a rapid heart rate, particularly if the therapy triggers intense emotions. These sensations are usually short-lived but should be reported to the therapist for proper management.
Addressing Side Effects
Most side effects of EMDR are temporary and resolve within a few days. Open communication with the therapist is crucial for addressing any discomfort. Therapists may recommend self-care practices, such as mindfulness, journaling, or relaxation techniques, to manage emotional or physical responses between sessions. If side effects persist or become overwhelming, the therapist can adjust the treatment plan, such as slowing the pace or focusing on less distressing memories first.
Common Myths and Misconceptions About EMDR
Several myths surround EMDR, which can create confusion about its safety and effectiveness. Here are some clarifications:
EMDR is Hypnosis:
Unlike hypnosis, which induces a trance-like state, EMDR keeps individuals fully awake and aware. It uses bilateral stimulation to facilitate memory processing, not altered consciousness.
EMDR Erases Memories:
EMDR does not erase traumatic memories but rather reduces their emotional charge, allowing individuals to recall events without intense distress.
EMDR is a Quick Fix:
While EMDR can produce results faster than some therapies, it is not a one-session cure. The number of sessions varies based on the individual’s needs and the complexity of their trauma.
EMDR is Only for PTSD:
While highly effective for PTSD, EMDR is also used for anxiety, depression, phobias, and other conditions rooted in distressing experiences.
Risks of Improper EMDR Administration
The effectiveness and safety of EMDR depend heavily on the therapist’s training and adherence to the eight-phase protocol. Risks may arise if the therapy is not conducted properly, including
1- Retraumatization:
If a therapist moves too quickly into processing intense memories without adequate preparation, clients may feel overwhelmed or retraumatized. A qualified therapist ensures clients have coping tools and a strong therapeutic alliance before addressing trauma.
2- Incomplete Processing
Rushing through phases or skipping steps can leave traumatic memories partially processed, potentially increasing distress. Thorough preparation and pacing are essential for effective outcomes.
3- Unsuitability for Certain Conditions:
EMDR may not be appropriate for individuals with severe dissociative disorders, psychosis, or unstable mental health conditions unless stabilized through other treatments first. A thorough assessment by a trained therapist is necessary to determine suitability.
Ensuring Safe and Effective EMDR Therapy
To minimize risks and maximize benefits, consider the following
Choose a Qualified Therapist
Work with a therapist certified by organizations like the EMDR International Association (EMDRIA) or trained through reputable programs. They should have extensive experience in trauma therapy and follow the standard EMDR protocol.
Communicate Openly
Share any side effects, concerns, or changes in symptoms with the therapist. This allows for adjustments to the treatment plan to ensure comfort and progress.
Build a Strong Therapeutic Alliance
A trusting relationship with the therapist is critical for navigating the emotional intensity of EMDR. Take time to establish rapport before beginning trauma processing.
Practice Self-Care
Engage in recommended self-care practices, such as rest, mindfulness, or journaling, to support emotional and physical well-being during therapy.
Conclusion
From Start to Finish: Therapy & Counseling in 3 Steps
1.
Book a free initial consultation to share your concerns and explore how therapy can support your mental health goals.
2.
After understanding your needs, your therapist will design a personalized therapy plan, incorporating approaches like CBT or mindfulness to address your unique challenges.
3.
Begin your therapy sessions—available in-person or online—with flexible scheduling options, and let your therapist guide you toward growth and emotional well-being.
Our Experience
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Have Questions? We’ve Answers for You.
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Muna Farhat, LMFT is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist based in San Jose, CA.
She holds the necessary credentials to practice therapy in California, with expertise in supporting individuals, couples, and families through various emotional and relational challenges.
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Therapy is a collaborative process where you work with a trained professional, like Muna, to address emotional, mental, or relational challenges. It can help you gain insight, develop coping strategies, and achieve personal growth or resolution of specific issues.
Counseling and therapy are often used interchangeably, but counseling typically focuses on specific issues or short-term goals (e.g., coping with a life transition), while therapy may involve deeper exploration of long-standing patterns. Muna offers both, depending on your needs.