EMDR Side Effects and Risks: What You Need to Know Before Starting

Considering EMDR but wondering, is EMDR safe? You are not alone in asking. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based therapy widely used to treat trauma, PTSD, and related conditions. While many people find it helpful, EMDR, like any psychological therapy, can sometimes cause temporary distress or unwanted reactions.

EMDR side effects vary from person to person, which is why it is worth discussing them openly with a qualified therapist before beginning treatment. This article covers what EMDR involves, common and less common side effects, who may need extra care, and how to prepare for your first session.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps the brain reprocess distressing memories so they feel less overwhelming over time. Treatment typically follows an eight-phase EMDR approach, which includes history-taking, preparation, memory processing, and closure.

A key element is bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, tapping, or alternating sounds, which is used while the person briefly focuses on a target memory. Importantly, EMDR is not simply “revisiting a traumatic memory” in an unstructured way. Treatment is paced according to each person’s needs, with stabilization and coping skills built in before deeper processing begins.

Common EMDR Side Effects

Temporary emotional distress

It is common to notice increased sadness, anxiety, irritability, or emotional sensitivity, particularly in the hours or days following a session. This is often a sign that the brain is actively processing material, not necessarily a setback.

Vivid or upsetting memories

Memories connected to the target experience may temporarily feel more vivid or present than usual. This tends to settle as processing continues.

Fatigue and feeling emotionally drained

Processing emotionally difficult material takes mental effort, similar to how physical exertion tires the body. Feeling unusually tired after a session is a normal EMDR after effect for many people.

Changes in sleep or dreams

Some people notice changes in sleep patterns or more vivid dreams as the brain continues processing outside of sessions. If nightmares are already a concern, resources on breaking free from recurring nightmares after trauma may be helpful to discuss with your therapist.

Headaches or physical discomfort

Occasionally, people report headaches, dizziness, or other temporary physical sensations. These are not necessarily caused by EMDR itself and may reflect general stress or tension, but it is worth mentioning them to your therapist.

Less Common or Potential Risks of EMDR

Beyond the more common reactions, there are less frequent but important EMDR risks to be aware of:

1. A temporary increase in distress or trauma symptoms before improvement is felt.
2. Feeling overwhelmed if difficult memories are activated too quickly.
3. Dissociation, or feeling disconnected from surroundings, particularly for people with a history of dissociation.
4. Emotional reactions that arise between sessions rather than during them.

The level of risk depends on factors such as personal history, current life circumstances, therapist expertise, and how treatment is paced. This is why appropriate assessment and preparation before trauma processing begins are essential parts of responsible EMDR care.

Who Should Take Extra Care With EMDR?

Certain circumstances may call for additional assessment, preparation, or a modified approach to EMDR treatment risks, including:

1. Significant dissociation.
2. Severe or unstable mental health symptoms.
3. Current substance misuse.
4. An unsafe or highly unstable living environment.
5. Recent trauma or ongoing traumatic circumstances.
6. Difficulty with emotional regulation or maintaining stability between sessions.

Importantly, these factors do not automatically mean someone cannot receive EMDR. Instead, they may influence how and when trauma processing is introduced, often with more stabilization work beforehand. Those working through childhood trauma in adulthood may particularly benefit from this careful pacing.

How Therapists Help Reduce EMDR Risks

Trained clinicians take several steps to minimize EMDR therapy side effects and support safety throughout treatment:

1. Conducting a thorough initial assessment and treatment plan.
2. Building coping and grounding skills before processing begins.
3. Establishing a sense of safety and therapeutic trust.
4. Starting trauma processing only when the person is ready.
5. Adjusting session intensity and pacing to individual needs.
6. Monitoring reactions both during and after sessions.
7. Encouraging open communication if symptoms become difficult to manage.

Learn more about how a structured approach supports recovery in this overview of how EMDR therapy can transform trauma recovery.

When to Contact Your Therapist After EMDR

Reach out to your therapist promptly if you experience:

1. Distress that persists or significantly worsens.
2. Difficulty functioning at work, home, or school.
3. Severe sleep disruption.
4. Intense dissociation or feeling unsafe.
5. Strong emotional reactions that feel difficult to control.

Rather than stopping treatment on your own, discuss any concerns with your therapist. They can adjust the approach, add stabilization support, or determine the best path forward.

How to Prepare for Your First EMDR Session

To approach EMDR with confidence, consider the following before you begin:

1. Ask the therapist about their EMDR training and experience.
2. Discuss your mental health history and current circumstances openly.
3. Ask what preparation and stabilization work will involve.
4. Plan some downtime after an emotionally demanding session.
5. Identify grounding techniques and sources of support in advance.
6. Ask what to do if distress increases between appointments.

You can find a qualified provider through a specialty page such as EMDR therapy services to discuss your specific needs.

Questions to Ask Before Starting EMDR

Before beginning treatment, consider asking your therapist:

1. Is EMDR appropriate for my situation?
2. What side effects should I expect?
3. How will we handle increased distress?
4. What happens if I become overwhelmed during a session?
5. How will progress and safety be monitored?
6. What should I do between sessions if symptoms worsen?

Conclusion: Understanding the Benefits and Risks

EMDR can be an effective approach for processing trauma, but it may involve temporary emotional or physical reactions along the way. Understanding potential EMDR side effects and risks should be part of informed decision-making, alongside working with an appropriately trained mental health professional. Knowing what to expect can help you approach treatment with realistic expectations and a clear plan for support if challenges arise. If you have further questions, contact a member of our team to discuss your options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is EMDR therapy safe?

Yes, EMDR is generally considered safe when delivered by a trained therapist who properly assesses and paces treatment. Like other trauma therapies, it can involve temporary discomfort as part of the healing process.

What are the most common side effects of EMDR?

Common effects include temporary emotional distress, fatigue, vivid memories, changes in sleep or dreams, and occasional headaches or physical discomfort.

Can EMDR make you feel worse before you feel better?

Yes, some people notice a temporary increase in distress or emotional sensitivity as memories are being processed, before symptoms begin to ease.

How long do EMDR side effects last?

Most side effects are short-lived, often resolving within hours to a few days after a session. If effects persist or worsen, it is important to discuss this with your therapist.

Can EMDR trigger traumatic memories?

EMDR intentionally engages with target memories in a structured, paced way. It is not designed to trigger unrelated traumatic memories, though related memories may temporarily feel more vivid during processing.

What should I do if I feel worse after EMDR?

Reach out to your therapist rather than stopping treatment on your own. They can help you understand your reaction and adjust the pacing or approach as needed.

Understand the Risks of EMDR Therapy with Professional Support

At Inner Peace Therapies Lombard, IL, we understand that exploring EMDR therapy can raise questions about potential side effects, emotional challenges and whether treatment is right for you. We provide a supportive, compassionate environment where you can discuss your concerns openly and understand what to expect throughout the process.

With a personalised approach, we can help you explore the potential benefits and risks of EMDR, prepare for difficult emotions that may arise during treatment, and work at a pace that feels manageable for you. Contact Inner Peace Therapies today by filling in our contact form or calling us on (630) 747-3730 to discuss your concerns, ask questions and find out whether EMDR therapy could be a suitable step towards your emotional wellbeing and recovery.