How Do You Know if EMDR is Working?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a transformative therapeutic approach designed to help individuals heal from trauma and distressing life experiences. If you're on this journey, you might be wondering, "How do I know if EMDR is working?" Understanding the signs and feelings that indicate progress can help you stay motivated and hopeful throughout the process of EMDR therapy.

Image of a man wearing a hat walking down a neighborhood sidewalk. If you are struggling with overcoming past trauma, discover how EMDR therapy in St. Paul, MN can help support you in healing.

What Does It Feel Like When EMDR Works?

When EMDR begins to work, you may notice several changes in your emotional and physical state. Initially, sessions can be intense as you access distressing memories, but over time, you should start to feel a sense of relief. One key indicator of EMDR therapy working is a decrease in the activation of distress. This means that the strong emotional reactions you once had to certain memories begin to diminish. So if you find yourself wondering, what symptoms does EMDR help with, then EMDR might work for you.

As you progress, you might find yourself feeling more present and grounded. Instead of being stuck in the past, you're able to engage more fully with the present moment. This shift can bring a newfound sense of peace and stability.

What Are You Supposed to Notice During EMDR?

During EMDR sessions, you might notice a variety of changes, and wonder, how exactly does EMDR work? Here are some signs that EMDR is working:

  1. Decreased Distress: Over the course of sessions, you should notice a reduction in the distress associated with traumatic memories. What once felt overwhelming may start to feel more manageable.

  2. Improved Sleep: Many people report better sleep patterns. If your nightmares are changing or you’re sleeping more peacefully, it’s a positive sign.

  3. Neutral Reactions: Situations, places, or people that once triggered strong emotional reactions may no longer have the same impact. You might feel neutral or indifferent towards things that previously caused significant distress. Its the absence of the activation that lets you know EMDR has promoted healing. 

  4. Reduced Avoidance: You may find yourself more willing to engage in activities or visit places you used to avoid. This indicates that the fear or anxiety tied to those experiences is diminishing.

  5. Lower Hypervigilance: A decrease in hypervigilance, or the constant state of alertness and readiness for danger, is another sign of progress. You might feel more relaxed and less on edge.

  6. Less Vivid Memories: Traumatic memories may become less vivid and lose their emotional “hooks.” While you can still recall what happened, the memories no longer activate intense emotional responses.

How Should I Feel During EMDR?

During EMDR sessions, it’s normal to feel a range of emotions. Initially, accessing painful memories can be challenging, and you might feel emotionally or physically uncomfortable. You may even wonder, what part of the brain does EMDR target. However, as the sessions progress, you should start to notice a shift. You might begin to feel lighter as if a burden has been lifted. There can be moments of clarity and understanding, where connections between past experiences and present reactions become clearer.

This awareness is a crucial part of the healing process. Feeling more present and engaged in your daily life is another positive outcome. As distressing memories are processed and integrated, you can experience a greater sense of freedom and an increased capacity to enjoy life.

How Long Does It Take to See Results from EMDR?

The timeline for seeing results from EMDR varies from person to person. Some people notice changes after just a few sessions, while others might take longer to experience significant improvements. Factors such as the nature of the trauma, the length of time since the trauma occurred, and individual differences in processing speed all play a role. Typically, a standard course of EMDR therapy consists of 6-12 sessions, but this can vary. It’s important to maintain open communication with your EMDR therapist about your progress and any concerns you have. Patience is key, as healing from trauma is a process that unfolds over time.

Knowing if EMDR is working involves paying attention to the changes in your emotional and physical state. Decreased distress, improved sleep, neutral reactions to triggers, reduced avoidance, lower hypervigilance, and less vivid memories are all signs of progress. During sessions, you might feel a range of emotions, but over time, you should notice a shift towards feeling more present and engaged in life. The timeline for results varies, but with patience and persistence, EMDR can lead to significant healing and transformation.

Image of a smiling woman sitting in the grass on a sunny day. Wondering if EMDR will work for you? Discover the process of EMDR therapy in St. Paul, MN and how it can help with past trauma.

If you’re considering EMDR therapy at Sage Leaf Wellness, remember that progress might be gradual, but each step forward is a victory. Trust in the process, communicate with your therapist, and take note of the positive changes you experience along the way. EMDR is a journey towards healing, and with the right support, you can achieve a greater sense of peace and well-being.

Start Healing with EMDR Therapy in Saint Paul, MN

You don't have to face the weight of past traumas or present distress alone. EMDR therapy in Saint Paul, MN, offers a path to healing and a brighter future. At Sage Leaf Wellness, we are committed to providing a safe and nurturing space for your healing journey. Our experienced therapists are here to support you with compassionate and effective EMDR therapy, helping you overcome life's challenges.

Take the first step towards healing and discover the difference EMDR therapy can make:

Additional Therapy Services at Sage Leaf Wellness

At Sage Leaf Wellness, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to heal and live a fulfilling life. EMDR therapy in Saint Paul, MN, is just one of the many tools we offer to support your mental and emotional well-being. Our team is dedicated to providing evidence-based therapeutic techniques tailored to meet your unique needs. We recognize that each person's journey is different, and we offer a range of therapy options to accommodate individual preferences and circumstances. Alongside EMDR, we provide services such as Anxiety Therapy, Trauma Therapy, Marriage and Couples Counseling, and more. In addition to our in-person services in Saint Paul, MN we offer online therapy for those in the state of Minnesota.

Let us help you find peace and empowerment through our comprehensive, evidence-based practices. Your path to healing and well-being is our priority.

Benjamin Kelley