What is an actual EMDR session like?

During the first phase of EMDR, the clinician and client together identify specific target issues or problem to focus EMDR treatment. After a “safe place” identified, the client calls to mind the target or the disturbing issue, memory or event, what was seen, felt, heard, thought, etc, and what dysfunctional or unhealthy thoughts and beliefs currently are held with that event or issue. The therapist then performs a series of bilateral stimulating sets while the client focuses on the disturbing material. The client just notices whatever comes to mind without trying to control its direction of content. There is no right or wrong in whatever comes up for the client. Sets of bilateral stimulation are continued until the targeted issue, memory or event becomes less disturbing and is associated with positive thought and beliefs about oneself: for example, “I did the best I could”. During EMDR the client may experience intense emotions which the EMDR therapist is there to help the client through the process. By the end of the session most people report a great reduction in the level of disturbances.