EMDR Therapy Side Effects: What You Need To Know

EMDR therapy, or Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, is a form of psychotherapy that has gained popularity in recent years for its effectiveness in treating trauma-related disorders.

This type of therapy has been found to be a safe and effective treatment option for many individuals, like any form of therapy, it does come with potential side effects.

One of the most common side effects of EMDR therapy is fatigue.

During therapy, the brain is working hard to process traumatic memories and make new connections.

This can be mentally and physically exhausting, leaving you feeling drained after a session.

However, this side effect is usually temporary and goes away within a few hours to a day after the session.

Another potential side effect of EMDR therapy is an increase in distressing thoughts or feelings.

As the therapy aims to process and release traumatic memories, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience an increase in distressing thoughts or feelings during or after a session.

Most commonly known as flashbacks.

This is often a sign that the therapy is working and the individual is beginning to process their trauma in a healthy way.

It’s important to communicate any distressing thoughts or feelings with your therapist so they can help you navigate them.

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What is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a type of psychotherapy that is used to treat trauma, anxiety, and other emotional disorders.

EMDR therapy was first developed in the late 1980s by Francine Shapiro, a psychologist who was studying the effects of eye movements on anxiety.

The therapy involves a series of guided eye movements, sounds, or taps, which are used to help the brain process traumatic memories and emotions.

The theory behind EMDR is that it helps the two sides of the brain to communicate with one another.

The left side of the brain specializes in logic and reason, while the right side specializes in emotions and creativity.

By stimulating both sides of the brain, EMDR therapy can help to reprocess traumatic memories and emotions in a more positive way.

EMDR therapy is typically used to treat a variety of conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and phobias.

The therapy is often used in conjunction with other forms of therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), to help patients overcome their emotional challenges.

Overall, EMDR therapy is a safe and effective form of psychotherapy, but it is important to note that there can be side effects associated with the therapy.

It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of EMDR therapy with your therapist before beginning treatment.

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Common Side Effects of EMDR Therapy

EMDR therapy is a form of psychotherapy that is used to treat individuals who have experienced trauma. While the therapy is generally considered to be safe, there are some common side effects that you may experience during or after treatment.

Physical Side Effects

One of the most common physical side effects of EMDR therapy is feeling tired after a session.

This is because the brain is working hard to reprocess memories and make new connections.

You may also experience headaches, nausea, or dizziness during or after a session.

These side effects are usually temporary and will go away on their own.

Emotional Side Effects

EMDR therapy can be emotionally intense, and you may experience a range of emotions during or after a session.

You may feel sad, anxious, angry, or overwhelmed.

You may also experience flashbacks or nightmares.

These emotional side effects are a normal part of the healing process, and you should talk to your therapist if you are struggling to manage them.

Cognitive Side Effects

During EMDR therapy, you may experience changes in your thought patterns or beliefs.

You may also experience difficulty concentrating or remembering things. These cognitive side effects are usually temporary and will go away on their own.

It is important to remember that everyone’s experience with EMDR therapy is different, and you may not experience any side effects at all.

If you do experience side effects, they are usually mild and temporary.

Your therapist can help you manage any side effects that you may experience and ensure that you feel safe and comfortable throughout the treatment process.

Rare Side Effects of EMDR Therapy

EMDR therapy is generally considered safe and effective for treating trauma-related conditions such as PTSD, anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.

Like any form of therapy, it may have some potential side effects.

The most common side effects of EMDR therapy include temporary discomfort, emotional distress, and fatigue during or after the sessions.

These side effects are usually mild and short-lived.

In rare cases, EMDR therapy may cause more serious side effects, such as dissociation, worsening of symptoms, or retraumatization.

Dissociation is a temporary disruption of normal consciousness, memory, or identity.

It may occur during or after the EMDR session, and may involve feelings of detachment, disorientation, or depersonalization.

Dissociation is more likely to occur in individuals who have a history of dissociative disorders or severe trauma.

Worsening of symptoms is another rare side effect of EMDR therapy.

This may happen when the therapy triggers painful or distressing memories that were previously repressed or forgotten.

It may also happen when the therapy fails to address underlying issues or when the therapist is not properly trained or experienced in EMDR therapy.

Retraumatization is a more serious side effect of EMDR therapy that may occur when the therapy triggers intense emotional or physical reactions that resemble the original trauma.

This may happen when the therapy is too intense or too fast-paced, or when the therapist is not able to provide adequate support or grounding techniques.

It is important to note that these side effects are rare and can usually be prevented or managed with proper screening, preparation, and supervision.

Before starting EMDR therapy, it is important to discuss your medical history, current symptoms, and treatment goals with your therapist.

You should also ask about their qualifications, experience, and approach to EMDR therapy.

If you experience any side effects during or after the therapy, you should inform your therapist immediately and seek appropriate medical or psychological care.

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Factors Influencing Side Effects

When it comes to EMDR therapy, side effects can vary depending on individual differences and the therapist’s skill level.

Here are two factors that can influence the likelihood of experiencing side effects:

Individual Differences

Everyone is different, and this can impact how they respond to EMDR therapy.

Some individuals may experience more side effects than others, while some may not experience any at all.

Here are some individual differences that can influence side effects:

Age: Older individuals may experience more side effects than younger individuals.
Gender: Women may be more likely to experience side effects than men.
Mental health history: Individuals with a history of mental health issues, such as anxiety or depression, may be more likely to experience side effects.
Trauma history: Individuals with a history of trauma may be more likely to experience side effects.

It’s important to note that just because you fall into one of these categories doesn’t necessarily mean you will experience side effects. Everyone’s experience with EMDR therapy is unique.

Therapist’s Skill Level

The skill level of the therapist administering EMDR therapy can also impact the likelihood of experiencing side effects.

A highly skilled therapist will know how to properly administer EMDR therapy to minimize the risk of side effects.

Here are some factors that can impact a therapist’s skill level:

Training: A therapist who has received extensive training in EMDR therapy is more likely to be skilled in administering the therapy.
Experience: A therapist who has years of experience administering EMDR therapy is more likely to be skilled in minimizing side effects.
Supervision: A therapist who receives regular supervision from a more experienced EMDR therapist is more likely to be skilled in administering the therapy.

It’s important to choose a therapist who is highly skilled in administering EMDR therapy to minimize the risk of side effects.

Managing Side Effects of EMDR Therapy

EMDR therapy is generally considered safe and effective, but like any form of therapy, it can have side effects.

These side effects can range from mild to severe, and they can vary from person to person.

Fortunately, there are ways to manage the side effects of EMDR therapy.

Communicate with Your Therapist

The most important thing you can do to manage the side effects of EMDR therapy is to communicate with your therapist.

If you experience any side effects during or after a session, be sure to let your therapist know.

Your therapist can help you understand what is happening and provide you with strategies to manage the side effects.

Take Care of Yourself

EMDR therapy can be emotionally and physically draining, so it’s important to take care of yourself before and after a session.

Make sure you get enough sleep, eat well, and stay hydrated.

Avoid alcohol and drugs, as they can interfere with the therapy.

Engage in activities that help you relax and reduce stress, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.

Pace Yourself

EMDR therapy can be intense, so it’s important to pace yourself.

Don’t try to do too much too soon.

Start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the length and frequency of your sessions as you become more comfortable with the therapy.

Your therapist can help you determine the best pace for you.

Use Coping Strategies

There are several coping strategies that can help you manage the side effects of EMDR therapy.

These include:

Grounding techniques: These techniques can help you stay present and focused during a session. They can include deep breathing, counting, or focusing on a specific object in the room.
Self-care practices: Engaging in self-care practices, such as taking a warm bath or going for a walk, can help you relax and reduce stress.
Talking to a friend or family member: Talking to someone you trust can help you process your feelings and emotions.

Consider Medication

In some cases, medication may be helpful in managing the side effects of EMDR therapy.

Your therapist or doctor can help you determine if medication is right for you.

Overall, the side effects of EMDR therapy are usually mild and manageable.

By communicating with your therapist, taking care of yourself, pacing yourself, using coping strategies, and considering medication, you can minimize the side effects and get the most out of your therapy.

Comparing EMDR Therapy Side Effects with Other Therapies

When it comes to treating trauma, there are several therapies available, each with its own set of benefits and side effects.

EMDR therapy is one such treatment that has gained popularity in recent years.

EMDR Therapy vs. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

CBT is a widely used therapy for treating a range of mental health conditions, including trauma.

While EMDR therapy uses eye movements and bilateral stimulation to process traumatic memories, CBT focuses on changing negative thought patterns and behaviors.

When it comes to side effects, both therapies have minimal risks.

However, some people may experience temporary discomfort or emotional distress during therapy sessions.

With EMDR therapy, some individuals may experience mild physical sensations, such as fatigue or headache, after treatment.

EMDR Therapy vs. Exposure Therapy

Exposure therapy is another commonly used treatment for trauma.

It involves gradually exposing the individual to the traumatic event or situation in a safe and controlled environment.

Compared to EMDR therapy, exposure therapy may have a higher risk of side effects.

Some individuals may experience increased anxiety or fear during the exposure process.

In some cases, exposure therapy may also trigger flashbacks or other traumatic symptoms.

EMDR Therapy vs. Medication

Medication is often used in conjunction with therapy to treat trauma and other mental health conditions.

Antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications are commonly prescribed to help manage symptoms.

While medication can be effective in reducing symptoms, it may also have side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, and weight gain.

Medication alone does not address the underlying trauma and may only provide temporary relief.

EMDR Therapy vs. Other Trauma Therapies

There are several other trauma therapies available, including psychodynamic therapy, somatic experiencing, and narrative therapy.

Each of these therapies has its own unique approach and side effects.

Final Thoughts

EMDR therapy is a safe and effective treatment for individuals who have experienced trauma.

While there are some potential side effects, such as tiredness or temporary discomfort, these are typically mild and short-lived.

It is important to note that EMDR therapy should only be conducted by a licensed and trained therapist.

If you are considering EMDR therapy, make sure to find a qualified therapist who can provide you with the support and guidance you need.

Overall, EMDR therapy has been shown to be a highly effective treatment for trauma-related disorders such as PTSD, anxiety, and depression.

It can help you process traumatic memories and move forward with your life in a more positive and healthy way.

If you are struggling with the effects of trauma, EMDR therapy may be a good option for you.

Talk to your healthcare provider or a qualified therapist to learn more about this treatment and whether it is right for you.