You finally found an EMDR therapist and you’re ready to dive in. You’ve heard about the healing potential—the relief, the freedom—and you’re eager to get started. But now your therapist is asking you to do all these other things first? You might be feeling frustrated or even a little confused. Totally fair.
Here’s the thing: EMDR is a powerful approach. It can stir up deep emotions and bring old pain to the surface. When done thoughtfully, it helps your system process and release what’s been stuck for years. But if it’s rushed—or if your therapist skips some important groundwork—it can actually leave you feeling destabilized.
That’s why a skilled EMDR therapist won’t just jump in. They’ll take time to make sure you have a strong foundation first. This might include work like ego state therapy or Internal Family Systems (IFS)—approaches that help all the different parts of you feel ready and safe to engage in the process. Without that prep work, you might find yourself feeling “stuck” or looping through the same material instead of moving through it.
Sometimes, your therapist will also help you build internal and external resources before starting EMDR. This can mean identifying a calm or safe place, practicing grounding skills, or strengthening your support system. EMDR sessions can bring up a lot—it’s normal to feel tender or raw afterward. Having tools in place helps you come back down, re-regulate, and feel secure again.
So if your therapist is taking their time before jumping into EMDR, it’s not because they’re holding you back. It’s because they want you to succeed. A solid foundation makes the work safer, more effective, and ultimately—more healing.
If you’re curious about starting EMDR—or wondering how to prepare for it—I’d love to help you figure out what you need to feel ready. Whether that’s traditional EMDR therapy or a focused EMDR intensive, we can create a plan that fits your goals and your pace.
Learn more about EMDR or schedule a consultation to get started.
EMDR Therapy in Issaquah, WA | Serving Sammamish, Bellevue, North Bend & Snoqualmie
Virtual across Washington State.