EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy has transformed trauma treatment, offering hope for those struggling with PTSD, addiction, and other trauma-related conditions. This evidence-based approach helps reprocess traumatic memories, reducing their emotional impact and helping clients build healthier coping mechanisms.
At Absolute Recovery Therapeutic Solutions (The ARTS) in West Hills, CA, we understand the powerful connection between trauma and addiction. That’s why we offer comprehensive trauma-informed care, including a primary mental health track and dual diagnosis treatment to address both trauma and substance use disorders simultaneously.
Understanding what to expect with EMDR side effects can help you feel more prepared and confident as you embark on your healing journey. We’re here to support you every step of the way.
Common EMDR Side Effects
While not everyone will have the same EMDR side effects, there are some common experiences that many people may have during or after their EMDR sessions. These can include the following.
Emotional and Psychological Effects
Vivid Dreams or Nightmares
Many clients experience more intense or frequent dreams during EMDR treatment. While nightmares and PTSD often go hand in hand, dreams during EMDR often relate to the memories being processed and typically decrease as therapy progresses.1
Emotional Intensity
You may feel heightened emotions between sessions. This can include sadness, anger, anxiety, or even temporary mood swings as your brain continues processing traumatic material. However, the good news is that EMDR has also been shown to help reduce cravings and manage emotions associated with addiction.2
Memory Surfacing
Additional memories related to your trauma may emerge during or after sessions. While this can feel overwhelming, it’s often a sign that your brain is working to heal and integrate these experiences.
Temporary Increase in Symptoms
Some clients notice a temporary worsening of PTSD symptoms, such as increased flashbacks or anxiety. This is usually short-lived as your nervous system adjusts to the therapeutic process.
Physical Sensations
Body Tension and Fatigue
EMDR can be emotionally and physically exhausting. You might experience muscle tension, headaches, or general fatigue following sessions.
Sleep Disturbances
Changes in sleep patterns are common, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless sleep.
Lightheadedness
Some people feel dizzy or lightheaded during or immediately after EMDR sessions, particularly when processing intense memories.
Managing EMDR Side Effects
Communicate with Your Therapist
Always discuss any side effects with your EMDR therapist. They can adjust the pace of treatment, use additional grounding techniques, or modify the approach to ensure your comfort and safety.
Practice Self-Care
Prioritize rest, proper nutrition, and gentle exercise. Consider activities like walking, yoga, or meditation to help your nervous system regulate.
Use Grounding Techniques
Your therapist will teach you grounding exercises to use between sessions. These might include deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, or mindfulness practices.
Maintain Your Support System
Lean on trusted friends, family members, or support groups. Having people who understand your journey can provide invaluable emotional support.
Be Patient with the Process
Healing from trauma takes time. Side effects are often temporary and indicate that the therapy is working to process and integrate difficult memories.
Healing Through Comprehensive Care
EMDR side effects, while sometimes challenging, are typically manageable and temporary. The benefits of processing trauma through EMDR often far outweigh these short-term difficulties, leading to reduced PTSD symptoms, improved emotional regulation, and better overall quality of life.
At The ARTS, our experienced team understands that trauma and addiction often go hand in hand. Our dual diagnosis approach ensures you receive comprehensive care that addresses both your mental health and substance use concerns in a safe, supportive environment.
If you’re ready to begin your healing journey and address both trauma and addiction, contact Absolute Recovery Therapeutic Solutions today at 866-586-0299. Our trauma-informed care team is here to support you every step of the way toward lasting recovery and emotional wellness.
FAQs
What is EMDR therapy?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a well-researched and effective treatment for individuals who have experienced trauma or distressing life events. It helps clients process traumatic memories and reduce the symptoms associated with PTSD, anxiety, and other mental health conditions by using guided bilateral stimulation, often in the form of eye movements.
Are there any common side effects of EMDR therapy?
While EMDR is generally a safe and effective treatment, some individuals may experience certain side effects. These are typically mild and temporary but can include heightened emotional sensitivity, vivid dreams, fatigue, or an increase in emotional processing between sessions. These side effects are often a natural part of working through difficult emotions and memories and tend to resolve as treatment progresses.
Why might I feel emotionally overwhelmed after an EMDR session?
EMDR therapy involves processing intense emotions and memories, which can sometimes result in feeling emotionally drained or overwhelmed shortly after a session. This is a normal part of the healing process, as your brain works to process and integrate past experiences. Many clients find that these feelings subside within a day or two.
Can EMDR cause physical side effects?
While most side effects of EMDR are emotional or psychological, some individuals may experience physical sensations such as headaches, lightheadedness, or tension. These effects are typically mild and temporary and may occur as your body responds to processing difficult emotions. Staying hydrated and practicing self-care between sessions can help alleviate these sensations.
Is it normal to have vivid or intense dreams during EMDR therapy?
Many individuals report experiencing more vivid dreams or nightmares while undergoing EMDR therapy. This can happen as your brain processes unresolved memories and emotions. While this might feel unsettling, it is considered a normal and temporary part of treatment, signaling that your brain is actively working toward healing.
Will EMDR therapy make me feel worse before I feel better?
For some people, revisiting traumatic experiences during EMDR can temporarily intensify emotions, leading them to feel more distressed before they begin to notice improvements. This is often a short-term reaction as your brain progresses through the healing process. It is important to trust the therapeutic process and communicate any concerns with your therapist.
How can I manage side effects from EMDR therapy?
To manage potential side effects, it is crucial to prioritize self-care during and after treatment. Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or journaling. Discuss any distressing reactions with your therapist, who may adjust the pace of therapy to ensure your comfort and emotional well-being.
Are side effects from EMDR therapy long-lasting?
The side effects of EMDR are typically short-lived and diminish as the therapy progresses. EMDR is considered a highly effective treatment for trauma, and most clients experience significant improvements in their symptoms over time. Any temporary discomforts are often outweighed by the long-term emotional and psychological benefits.
Should I be concerned about side effects from EMDR therapy?
If you are feeling uneasy about potential side effects, it’s important to discuss your concerns with your therapist before starting treatment. They can help set expectations and offer reassurance about the process. Therapists trained in EMDR prioritize your safety and emotional well-being throughout therapy.
Is EMDR the right choice for me?
EMDR therapy is a highly customizable and flexible approach that can be tailored to meet your individual needs. If you are considering EMDR, consult with a qualified therapist who can help determine whether it is the best option for your unique situation and guide you through the process with care and expertise.
References
- El-Solh, A. A. (2018). Management of nightmares in patients with posttraumatic stress disorder: current perspectives. Nature and Science of Sleep, 10, 409–420. https://doi.org/10.2147/nss.s166089
- Seok, J.-W., Kim, K., & Kim, J. U. (2025). Therapeutic effects of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for substance use disorders: a meta-analysis of addiction-related and emotional symptoms. Frontiers in Psychiatry, 16. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyt.2025.1660046Â