What to Expect After EMDR Therapy
What to Expect After EMDR Therapy
A Trauma-Informed Guide from a Licensed Therapist
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful, evidence-based approach for trauma and other distressing experiences. Many clients ask an important question after starting EMDR:
“What should I expect after an EMDR session?”
While each person’s response is unique, there are common patterns I see repeatedly in my clinical practice. Understanding what is normal, what is temporary, and when to reach out for support can help you feel more grounded and prepared during the EMDR process.
Immediate Reactions After an EMDR Session
In the hours or days following EMDR, it’s common for clients to notice changes emotionally, mentally, or physically. These reactions are typically signs that the brain is continuing to process and integrate the material worked on in session.
Emotional Responses
Many clients report:
Emotional release (crying, relief, or emotional lightness)
Temporary emotional sensitivity or vulnerability
Feeling unexpectedly calm or detached
Mood fluctuations for a short period
In my practice, most emotional intensity peaks within 24–72 hours and then gradually settles as the nervous system recalibrates.
Physical Sensations After EMDR
Because trauma is stored not only cognitively but also in the body, physical sensations are very common.
Clients often describe:
Fatigue or low energy
Headaches or muscle soreness
Heaviness or lightness in the body
Changes in appetite or sleep patterns
These responses are usually temporary. Gentle movement, hydration, and rest often help support integration.
Cognitive and Memory Changes
It’s also common to notice shifts in thinking patterns after EMDR, such as:
New insights or perspectives about past experiences
Reduced emotional charge when recalling memories
Increased mental clarity
Occasional vivid dreams or memory fragments
Dream activity, in particular, is something many clients ask about. Vivid or unusual dreams are a common and normal response as the brain continues processing outside of session.
Short-Term vs. Longer-Term Effects of EMDR
Short-Term (Hours to Days)
Emotional ups and downs
Fatigue
Heightened awareness
Temporary discomfort followed by relief
Longer-Term (Weeks)
Reduced distress linked to traumatic memories
Increased emotional regulation
Improved self-esteem and sense of safety
Decreased reactivity to triggers
Research and clinical guidelines supported by organizations such as EMDR International Association show that lasting symptom reduction often occurs as processing continues over time, not always immediately after a single session.
Is It Normal to Feel Worse After EMDR?
This is one of the most common concerns I hear.
A brief increase in emotional or physical discomfort can be normal, especially when working with complex or long-standing trauma. This does not mean EMDR isn’t working. It often reflects that the brain is actively integrating previously unprocessed material.
That said, therapy should never feel overwhelming or unsafe.
When to Contact Your Therapist After EMDR
You should reach out to your therapist if:
Intense distress lasts longer than 7–10 days
You experience persistent panic, dissociation, or emotional flooding
Sleep disruption becomes severe
You feel unable to function in daily life
EMDR is most effective when clients feel supported and paced appropriately, and adjusting the approach is part of ethical trauma-informed care.
How to Support Yourself Between EMDR Sessions
To help your nervous system integrate the work:
Prioritize rest and hydration
Use grounding skills (resources) discussed in therapy
Avoid major emotional stressors when possible
Journal or note patterns without forcing meaning
Maintain routines that promote stability
Integration is not about “doing more” — it’s about allowing the nervous system time to recalibrate.
A Therapist’s Perspective
As a licensed therapist who is an EMDRIA Certified EMDR therapist, I’ve seen how powerful this work can be when clients understand what’s happening in their mind and body. You are not doing EMDR wrong if emotions arise after session — those reactions often signal healing in progress.
Every EMDR journey is individualized, and open communication with your therapist is key.
Frequently Asked Questions About EMDR Aftereffects
How long do EMDR aftereffects last?
Most post-session reactions resolve within a few days. Integration may continue subtly over weeks.
Are vivid dreams after EMDR normal?
Yes. Many clients experience changes in dreaming as the brain processes material.
Can EMDR make symptoms worse?
Temporary discomfort can occur, but lasting worsening should be discussed with your therapist promptly.
Considering EMDR Therapy?
If you’re exploring EMDR therapy and want to understand whether it’s a good fit for you, working with a licensed, certified EMDR therapist who prioritizes pacing and safety is essential.
If you’re located in Florida, or seeking telehealth services in Vermont or South Carolina, I offer trauma-informed EMDR therapy and would be happy to answer your questions.
A Note on Individual Differences and Safety
Reactions to EMDR vary widely. Factors such as trauma history, nervous system sensitivity, current stressors, and available support all influence how a person responds.
Some individuals may experience stronger emotional or physical reactions, while others notice very little between sessions. Neither response is “right” or “wrong.”
If you have a history of complex trauma, dissociation, medical conditions, or are currently in crisis, EMDR should be carefully paced and integrated into a broader treatment plan.
Scope and Limitations
This article is intended for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for individualized mental health assessment, diagnosis, or treatment.
EMDR therapy should always be provided by a trained, licensed clinician who can tailor treatment to your specific needs, history, and safety considerations.
If you are considering EMDR or have concerns about your reactions, consult directly with your therapist or another qualified mental health professional.
About Lori
Lori McGruder, LMHC is a licensed mental health counselor specializing in trauma-informed therapy and EMDR. She provides in-person counseling in Gainesville, Florida, and telehealth services in Vermont and South Carolina.