Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach that uses eye movements and other forms of bilateral stimulation to help address a variety of psychological issues, including panic disorders, complex trauma, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It blends well with different treatment methods and can help individuals with mood regulation and managing daily stress. EMDR has been extensively studied and shown to be highly effective for several conditions.
At Outlook Counseling Services, PLLC, therapists follow EMDR protocols while honoring the unique cultures and experiences of those they work with.
We also incorporate the “Butterfly Hug” technique—developed by Lucina Artigas in the late 1990s with further contributions from Ignacio Jarero—to support trauma survivors in Mexico and worldwide. This method can also be helpful during times of anxiety or for grounding when feeling stressed.
What to Expect After an EMDR Session (The Integration Window)
It is completely normal to experience an emotional shift for a few days to a week after an EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) session. While EMDR is a highly safe and proven therapeutic intervention, it actively reorganizes how your brain stores traumatic memories, which can sometimes come with a temporary period of discomfort. Here is what you need to know about navigating your post-session processing window.
The Spectrum of Post-Session Experiences
Everyone's nervous system processes trauma differently. There is no "right" way to feel after a session:
- If you feel more emotional or drained: This is a standard part of the process. Your brain continues to integrate and background-process those difficult memories long after your appointment ends. Unpacking stored stress takes immense mental and physical energy, which can temporarily leave you feeling "raw," fatigued, or more prone to crying.
- If you feel completely fine or notice no distress: This is also entirely normal. Not experiencing post-session discomfort does not mean the therapy "didn't work." It simply means your brain processed the material smoothly during the session, or it is integrating the changes quietly in the background without disrupting your baseline mood.
How to Care for Yourself During Integration
- Honoring Your Pace: EMDR is a safe and deeply transformative tool, but the growth it brings can feel vulnerable. If you experience a brief spike in emotional sensitivity, remind yourself that it is a temporary phase of rewriting old patterns, and it will pass.
- Protecting Your Time: Avoid scheduling demanding social events, major work deadlines, or stressful activities immediately following a session. Give yourself permission to rest.
- Grounding Yourself: If emotional waves do feel intense, anchor yourself in the present moment. Try deep belly breathing, spending time in nature, or writing your thoughts down in a journal to release them.
When to Check In: While a brief period of emotional processing is normal, your distress should always feel safe and manageable. If your feelings become overwhelming or do not begin to ease after a few days, please reach out to your therapist so they can help you utilize your containment and grounding tools.
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En Outlook Counseling Services, PLLC, nuestros terapeutas son conscientes de seguir el protocolo EMDR pero también de reconocer las culturas y experiencias de las personas.
Practicamos EMDR de manera culturalmente sensible e integramos la técnica del abrazo de mariposa creada por la trabajadora social y terapeuta Lucina Artigas entre 1997 y 1998 —y posteriormente desarrollada junto con Ignacio Jarero—para ayudar a los sobrevivientes del trauma en México y en el mundo. Una técnica que también se puede utilizar durante un periodo de ansiedad o para conectarnos cuando estamos estresados.
El espectro de experiencias posteriores
- Si se siente emotivo o cansado: Es estándar. Su cerebro sigue integrando los recuerdos, lo que consume energía física y mental de forma temporal.
- Si se siente bien o sin malestar: También es normal. No significa que la terapia no funcionó, sino que el procesamiento ocurrió de forma fluida o silenciosa.
Cómo cuidarse durante la integración
- Respete su ritmo: Si hay sensibilidad emocional, recuerde que es una fase pasajera.
- Proteja su tiempo: Evite eventos demandantes o estrés justo después de la sesión; dese permiso para descansar.
- Anclaje en el presente: Use respiración profunda o escriba en un diario si las emociones se sienten intensas.
- Cuándo comunicarse: Si el malestar es abrumador o no disminuye tras unos días, contacte a su terapeuta para usar herramientas de contención
Si está interesado/a en aprender más sobre el tratamiento EMDR o desea programar una cita con un terapeuta EMDR, contáctenos.