When Does EMDR Start to Work?

Let's dive into a crucial question that comes after we answer what EMDR Therapy is used for. When does EMDR start to work? As an EMDR therapist committed to walking beside you on your path to healing, I recognize the profound nature of this inquiry. EMDR therapy is more than just a clinical process; it's a compassionate guide crafted to lift the weight of traumatic memories. Together, let's unravel the threads of experience, fostering resilience and positive change through the compassionate lens of EMDR therapy in Springfield, MO.

Does EMDR Work Instantly?

At its core, EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured therapeutic approach. It is designed to relieve the emotions associated with traumatic memories. While the effectiveness of EMDR is evident, it typically doesn't give instant results. Instead, it operates as a gradual, yet highly impactful process. EMDR helps reshape your traumatic memories and your perception. This is to help you heal and lessen the impact the memories have. But, remember, it does take time for this process to work and provide positive results.

How Does a Therapist Know if EMDR Is Working?

We've talked about how EMDR therapy takes some time to work its magic. So in the meantime your therapist will be looking for signs that it is working during your sessions. Imagine your EMDR therapist in Springfield, MO as a detective. They will be keeping an eye on different clues. One big clue is when the tough memories we talk about start to feel a bit less upsetting. It's like untangling a knot, making those memories easier to handle.

Another clue is how you react to things. You might notice that situations that used to make you stressed or anxious aren't as triggering anymore. That's a sign that EMDR in Springfield, MO is helping you handle those tricky feelings. Also, when you talk with your therapist about them, you may find it easier to talk about them. All without feeling too upset, that's a good sign too. It's like turning the volume down on the tough emotions connected to those memories.

Lastly, we will look at the bigger picture. This can be like how you're doing in your everyday life. If you're sleeping better, feeling happier, and getting along with others. This all shows that EMDR is making a positive difference.

So, in simpler words, your EMDR therapist in Springfield, MO keeps an eye out for these changes during sessions. So they can ensure it is doing what it's supposed to – helping you feel better.

A woman standing at the window pushing back white curtains. Showing someone who is benefiting from EMDR therapy in Springfield. With support from EMDR therapy for anxiety in Southern Missouri she can start to embrace life.

What Am I Supposed to Feel During EMDR?

Now that we've talked about how EMDR works and how therapists know it's helping, you might be wondering, "What am I supposed to feel during EMDR?" Great question! Let's dive into what you can expect during our sessions at Seen Therapy in Springfield, MO.

So, imagine our EMDR sessions like a journey. You might feel different things along the way, but that's okay. It's part of the process. One thing you might notice is that as we talk about tough memories, they might not feel as heavy or as overwhelming. It's like shining a light on something dark, making it a bit easier to handle.

You might also notice some changes in your body. Maybe before, certain memories made you feel tense or shaky, but as you work through them, those physical feelings might start to ease up. It's like letting go of a tight grip and feeling more relaxed.

Now, don't worry if things feel a bit mixed up at first. Talking about tough memories can bring up different emotions, and that's normal. It's like when you're sorting out your closet. Things might seem a bit messy before they get organized.

Overall, during EMDR, you're not supposed to feel overwhelmed. It's more about making those tough memories feel less powerful and helping you move towards feeling stronger and happier. So, if you ever wonder what you should be feeling during our sessions, just know it's okay to feel a mix of things, and we're here to guide you through it.

How Do You Know When EMDR Has Worked?

Think of Eye Movement Therapy as planting seeds in a garden. At first, you might not see much happening, but over time, you start noticing little sprouts and changes. Similarly, you and your EMDR therapist will keep an eye out for signs that the therapy has done its job.

One significant sign is when those tough memories we've been working on start to bother you less. It's like those memories lose some of their power to make you feel upset. That's a clear signal that EMDR has helped you process and manage those difficult feelings.

You might also notice positive changes in your daily life. If things that used to be hard for you become easier it shows that the seeds we planted during EMDR are starting to bloom. That might include:

  • sleeping better

  • feeling happier

  • getting along with others

Remember, the goal of EMDR isn't just to make those tough memories fade away completely. It's more about giving you the tools to handle them better, so they don't have as much control over how you feel. So, when you start experiencing these positive shifts, it's a good indicator that EMDR is working.

Your EMDR Therapy Journey

In short, going through EMDR therapy is like taking a special journey to feel better. We've discussed how it doesn't work right away but is more like a steady helper, making tough memories feel less heavy over time.

Think of it as a guide walking with you through small victories:

  • memories getting less upsetting

  • your reactions to stress getting easier

  • talking about tough stuff without feeling too upset

During this journey, your therapist watches for these good changes, making sure EMDR is helping you feel better.

So, remember, EMDR isn't about making memories disappear completely. It's more about giving you tools to handle them better, so you can become a stronger, happier you. Trust in the journey, welcome the positive changes and know that with EMDR, you're moving towards healing and strength.

Start EMDR Therapy in Springfield, MO to Start Your Journey!

Are you ready to experience the positive changes that EMDR therapy in Springfield, MO can bring? Then it is time to connect with your trusted EMDR therapist in Springfield, MO. Our experienced therapy practice helps women navigate the healing journey with compassion and support. Fill out our contact form or call 417-708-7909 to start your therapy today.

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Who is Not A Good Candidate for EMDR?

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Does EMDR Work for Childhood Trauma?