Thinking About EMDR? Here's What I Tell My Clients Before We Start

Is EMDR a quick fix for trauma, or does it require more preparation than you think? In this episode, I break down what EMDR therapy actually is, walk you through all eight phases of the treatment process, and address common misconceptions. So you know what to expect if you are considering EMDR for your healing journey.

What You'll Learn

• What EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is and how bilateral stimulation helps integrate traumatic experiences
• Who can benefit from EMDR: survivors of childhood abuse, sexual assault, loss, workplace trauma, systemic oppression, accidents, and more
• The eight phases of EMDR treatment: evaluation, preparation, assessment, reprocessing, installation, body scan, closure, and re-evaluation
• Why the preparation phase (building skills, increasing safety, and strengthening resources) is just as important as memory reprocessing—and often takes longer for complex trauma
• What actually happens during a reprocessing session—and how much you choose to share with your therapist
• Common misconceptions debunked: EMDR isn't a magic cure, it's not dangerous when done correctly, and you don't have to talk about every detail
• The benefits of EMDR: effective symptom relief, deep emotional healing, long-term empowerment, and post-traumatic growth
• How to know if EMDR is right for you—and why trusting your gut matters when choosing your healing path

Who This Is For
This episode is for adults considering EMDR therapy for trauma or loss who want to understand the full process—not just the eye movements, but the preparation, pacing, and personalized approach that makes EMDR effective. It's also for anyone who's heard conflicting information about EMDR and wants clarity on what it actually involves, how long it takes, and whether it's the right fit for their healing journey.

Additional Resources:

• EMDR Therapy: The Ultimate Guide: https://brighthorizontherapies.com/blog/the-ultimate-guide-to-emdr-therapy/
• EMDR for Adults with Childhood Trauma: Safe and Effective Healing: https://brighthorizontherapies.com/blog/emdr-for-childhood-trauma/

If you’d like to explore more, here are some ways to connect:

• Discover more about my work: https://brighthorizontherapies.com/
• Follow along on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brighthorizontherapies/
• Send me a message: nat@brighthorizontherapies.com

Trauma Demystified is not intended to replace professional guidance, support, medical treatment, or therapy. Please feel free to consult your physician or a mental health professional for any questions about mental health symptoms.

Bright Horizon Therapies is located in the Treaty 7 region in Southern Alberta, which includes the Blackfoot Confederacy, the Tsuut’ina First Nation, and the Stoney Nakoda. This land is also home to Métis Nation of Alberta, Region III. I acknowledge the traditional caregivers of the land and the importance of a commitment to the continued decolonization of my work.

Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction
• 0:50 What is EMDR Therapy
• 2:41 Who can Benefit from EMDR Therapy
• 3:59 EMDR Therapy Process
• 13:20 Taste of EMDR
• 14:44 Common Misconceptions
• 21:23 Memory Reprocessing with EMDR
• 23:12 Benefits of EMDR Therapy
• 25:50 Why Choose EMDR