What to Expect in EMDR Therapy Sessions
Preparing for your first EMDR therapy sessions? Learn what happens, how EMDR works, and how we at CARE Counseling, Inc. support your healing.
Starting EMDR Therapy can feel both hopeful and unfamiliar. At CARE Counseling, Inc., we aim to make your first sessions comfortable, clear, and empowering. Here’s what you can expect:
Initial Assessment and Safety Planning
Your therapist will begin by learning about your history, goals, and current symptoms. Together, you’ll build a sense of safety and readiness for EMDR work.
Introducing the EMDR Process
EMDR Therapy follows an eight-phase structure designed to move you gradually from preparation to reprocessing and integration. Bilateral stimulation — such as guided eye movements or tapping — helps engage your brain’s natural healing systems.
Processing New and Old Memories
During processing phases, you’ll briefly focus on specific memories while your therapist guides bilateral stimulation. This supports your brain in reprocessing memories so they no longer hold overwhelming emotional charge.
Monitoring Your Experience
Throughout therapy, you remain in control. You can stop at any point if you feel overwhelmed or need a pause.
Progress and Next Steps
Many clients experience meaningful shifts in emotional responses and self-perception over the course of EMDR Therapy. Your therapist will evaluate progress and adjust treatment to support your goals.
EMDR is a collaborative, empowering approach. At CARE Counseling, Inc., we’re dedicated to helping you understand each step and feel confident with the process.
Serving clients in Naperville, Plainfield, and surrounding suburbs (including Aurora, Oswego, Bolingbrook, Lisle, Wheaton, and Downers Grove) with in-person and telehealth therapy across Illinois.
