Reprocessing trauma through EMDR therapy.
After history taking, EMDR therapy moves into its core phase—reprocessing. This phase is where the real transformation happens. Here, the therapist helps you process traumatic memories in a way that reduces their emotional charge.
What is reprocessing in EMDR?
Reprocessing involves revisiting disturbing memories, but in a safe, guided way. Using bilateral stimulation—like side-to-side eye movements—the brain starts to process these memories differently. Over time, the memory becomes less distressing.
How reprocessing works
In the reprocessing phase, the therapist guides you through key steps:
Access the Memory: You recall a specific traumatic memory, including the images, thoughts, and emotions tied to it.
Bilateral Stimulation: As you focus on the memory, the therapist uses bilateral stimulation—often eye movements, but sometimes tapping or audio tones. This technique helps "unlock" the brain's natural healing process.
Shifting the Narrative: Over time, the emotional intensity of the memory decreases. New, more adaptive thoughts can replace the old negative beliefs.
How reprocessing helps conditions
This phase of EMDR therapy is critical for various mental health conditions:
PTSD: Reprocessing traumatic memories is at the heart of PTSD treatment, reducing flashbacks and emotional distress.
Anxiety: By addressing the underlying trauma or negative beliefs, reprocessing can calm the anxiety that often stems from past experiences.
OCD: It helps break the compulsive cycle by reducing the distress linked to obsessive thoughts.
What to expect during reprocessing
Many clients feel nervous before starting this phase, but it’s a gradual, controlled process. Your therapist will always ensure you feel safe and supported throughout. Here’s what typically happens:
Initial Reaction: As you begin reprocessing, you may feel some emotional intensity. This is normal, but it quickly subsides as the brain begins to adapt.
New Perspectives: As the session continues, your emotional response changes. The memory loses its power, and you start to feel more neutral or even positive about the experience.
Key benefits of reprocessing in EMDR
The benefits of reprocessing are long-lasting:
Less Emotional Distress: Traumatic memories no longer trigger intense emotional reactions.
New Beliefs: You develop healthier, more adaptive beliefs about yourself and the world.
Improved Symptoms: Conditions like PTSD, anxiety, and depression often improve dramatically after several reprocessing sessions.
Is EMDR right for you?
If you've struggled with trauma, anxiety, or OCD, reprocessing in EMDR therapy may be an effective solution. This phase is where the deep healing begins.
At Burlington Clinic, we offer both online and in-clinic EMDR therapy. Whether you're more comfortable at home or in person, our expert therapists will guide you through every step of the process.
Take the next step toward healing
Curious about how reprocessing can change your relationship with trauma? Book an appointment with us today.