Yes, EMDR therapy is generally considered safe and evidence-based when performed by a trained and licensed therapist. Some temporary emotional or physical reactions may occur during or after sessions, especially when processing traumatic memories.

Worried about EMDR therapy side effects? Learn side effects of EMDR therapy, what to expect, how long side effects last, whether EMDR is dangerous, and when to seek help.

EMDR Therapy Side Effects: What to Expect and When to Seek Help

EMDR therapy side effects can happen, especially during the initial stage of EMDR therapy. Some individuals report adverse effects during EMDR, but they are temporary, mild, and part of the healing process. Most EMDR therapy side effects improve over time.

If you are considering EMDR therapy online or want to understand how long EMDR recovery may take, it’s important to understand if it’s normal to feel side effects, which symptoms to monitor, and when to seek professional help.

Therapy Fleet provides online support and personalized care tailored to your individual needs. Find an experienced therapist from the comfort of your home.

EMDR is recognized by organizations such as the World Health Organization, American Psychological Association, and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as an evidence-based treatment for trauma-related conditions.

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Understanding EMDR Therapy

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy is an effective and evidence-based treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder PTSD and trauma-related conditions. EMDR involves guided movements while using bilateral stimulation. This process helps the brain reprocess traumatic memories or experiences, reducing their emotional intensity.

EMDR therapy is great for treating:

PTSD and traumas
Fear and phobias
Grief and loss
Depression and anxiety
Childhood traumas

Are EMDR Therapy Side Effects Normal?

Yes, while EMDR therapy is effective and safe for trauma-related conditions, some individuals report side effects during or after the session. Side effects may be emotional or physical, and last for a short period. Being aware of possible side effects can help you understand the healing process and feel more prepared during sessions.

Sometimes, side effects of EMDR are signs that the brain is processing unresolved traumas. In EMDR or other therapeutic interventions, adverse effects may be reported as part of the therapeutic process.

Intensity of side effects can vary depending on:

The severity of trauma
Your individual nervous system
Emotional sensitivity
Stress levels

For many people, side effects peak in the early phases of treatment. These reactions can be managed with time.

Common Emotional Side Effects of EMDR Therapy

Common emotional side effects of EMDR therapy include:

1. Emotional Distress

EMDR therapy involves recalling old memories, which can temporarily increase anxiety, sadness, anger, or emotional flooding. Clients report feeling unmotivated or sad during or after the session.

Helpful Tips:

Once the targeted memory is desensitized, this state may resolve
Practice gentle grounding exercises and breathing techniques

2. Increased Emotional Sensitivity

Explaining and confronting painful memories can sometimes increase emotional intensity, and some people become more emotionally reactive than usual. They may cry, be emotionally raw, or become emotionally sensitive during sessions.

Helpful Tips:

Taking small breaks during the session may help prevent overwhelm
Prioritize self-care

3. Increase in Anxiety and Feeling Uncomfortable

Some individuals report an increase in anxiety or discomfort, especially during early sessions. This is because your brain is adjusting to a new therapeutic process, and these reactions are temporary.

Helpful Tips:

Engage in calming activities (journaling, calming music)
Avoid overwhelming stressors
Practice relaxation techniques after the session

5. Resurfacing Memories

Previous forgotten memories may resurface unexpectedly during an EMDR session. As traumatic experiences are processed, individuals may recall additional painful memories or events connected to the original trauma, which may result in intense emotions.

Helpful Tips

Communicate with your therapist about emerging memories
Allow yourself time for rest
Consult your therapist if symptoms become overwhelming

6. Vivid Dreams or Sleep Disturbances After EMDR

Many people report vivid dreams or nightmares for a few days after a session. The brain continues to process thoughts and memories during sleep, which may affect sleep quality.

Researchers believe that EMDR can reduce vividness and emotional intensity.

Helpful Tips:

Discuss it with your therapist
Journaling can help track emotional themes and reduce anxiety related to dreams

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Physical Side Effects After EMDR Therapy

Trauma does not just affect psychologically; it is physically stored in the nervous system. Some individuals experience physical side effects during or after EMDR therapy.

EMDR can trigger physical reactions which are generally mild and temporary during or after sessions, such as:

Headaches
Nausea
Lightheadedness
Muscle tension
Rapid heartbeat
Tingling sensations

1. EMDR Fatigue and Mental Exhaustion

Fatigue is a common symptom of EMDR therapy. Sometimes, through traumatic memories or talking about the trauma, many people feel emotionally exhausted and mentally drained. Some people describe this feeling as “emotional hangover.”

Helpful Tips:

After the EMDR session:

Rest if needed
Avoid difficult conversation
Stay hydrated

2. EMDR Headaches, Dizziness, and Body Reactions

Some people report headaches, sweating, yawning, or muscle tightness during or after a session.

Helpful Tips:

Short breaks
Gentle stretching
Fluid intake
Proper sleep
Avoid alcohol or caffeine

Management Tips for EMDR Therapy

Prioritize self-care
Spend time with supportive people or your loved ones
Monitor your side effects if you note physical or emotional changes
Talk with your therapist if you have any concerns or any unusual side effects.

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Is EMDR Dangerous?

Studies suggest no harm or dangers are reported for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (ptsd), when performed by a certified and trained therapist. EMDR therapy is an effective treatment, although it may have side effects. It is considered safe when conducted by a trained therapist.

The greatest risk involves:

Inadequate preparation
Rushing trauma processing
Working with an untrained professional

Choosing a licensed, EMDR-certified therapist is important for safety and effectiveness.

After Effects of EMDR Therapy

The aftereffects of EMDR therapy may vary from person to person. Some people feel emotionally lighter and relieved after EMDR sessions, while others may experience feeling emotionally drained and overwhelmed.

Common after effects may include:

Mental exhaustion
Mood changes
Headaches
Emotionally overwhelmed

Positive after effects of EMDR therapy include:

Reduced vividness
Increased self-awareness
Increased insight into past experiences
Emotional release and lightness
Increased self-compassion

Rare and Severe Side Effects of EMDR Therapy

Severe side effects are rare and can occur in some situations. Below are some of the rare side effects when trauma is severe and emotional stabilization is not fully developed.

Suicidal ideation
Panic attacks
Severe emotional flooding
Dissociative episodes
Sleep difficulty
Anxiety or emotional sensitivity, especially in a complex trauma history

Individuals with a complex trauma history may require slower pacing.

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Client Concerns About EMDR Therapy!

I found that with EMDR therapy, things sometimes get worse. Is it Normal?

Yes, reprocessing memories can be an emotionally challenging phase for some individuals. Temporary or short-term side effects may occur during the healing process. It can be managed with the guidance of a licensed EMDR therapist.

It’s not always that you often feel worse with EMDR. These reactions can be side effects of EMDR and are not permanent.

Discuss the side effects openly with your therapist. Professional guidance can help you manage these reactions more effectively and safely.

When Should You Reach Out to Your EMDR Therapist

If side effects or severe reactions do not settle, discuss with your therapist.

Seek professional guidance if:

Side effects last longer than several days
Thoughts of harming yourself or others
Feeling overwhelmed for more than 48 hours
Daily functioning is affected
Migraine or severe headaches persist
Sleep problems (insomnia or nightmares) persist for over 72 hours
Emotional distress (if it persists for several days)
Dizziness or dissociation that doesn’t resolve with grounding
Side effects last for more than a week

Immediate care and support are required if you experience unusual side effects. Your therapist can slow the pace of therapy or adjust treatment.

Common Myths About EMDR Therapy

Several myths and misconceptions about EMDR therapy can prevent people from seeking help. Here are some common myths about EMDR:

It’s dangerous
It only works for PTSD symptoms
EMDR implants false memories
EMDR is the same as hypnosis
EMDR erases memories

These claims are misconceptions and are not supported by current evidence.

Seek professional guidance from licensed mental health professionals at Therapy Fleet today.

Benefits of EMDR Therapy

Many individuals experience long-term emotional and psychological benefits from EMDR therapy, such as:

Multiple studies support EMDR as an effective treatment for trauma or related conditions.
Many individuals report feeling better and experiencing faster improvement with EMDR.
EMDR involves less homework, such as writing detailed traumatic memories or thoughts that you want to bring up to your next session.
EMDR helps reduce PTSD symptoms.
EMDR helps reduce emotional triggers and improve emotional regulation in daily life.

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Final Thoughts—Why EMDR Side Effects Do Not Always Mean Therapy Is Failing

Just like physical exercise causes temporary muscle soreness, EMDR therapy side effects can create short-term emotional distress. This doesn’t mean therapy is harmful or not working.

In most cases, these side effects often reduce within a few hours or days. These reactions can be a sign that your brain is actively working through difficult memories.

If reactions persist or become overwhelming, it is important to discuss them openly with your therapist.

Therapy Fleet connects you with EMDR-certified therapists online from the comfort and privacy of your home.

EMDR may reopen painful memories—but only to help the brain process them safely.

FAQs

Here are answers to some of the most common questions our therapists receive about the side effects of EMDR therapy.

1. Are there any negative side effects to EMDR?

Yes, common negatives or drawbacks of EMDR therapy include:

Temporary blurring or reduced vividness of traumatic memories (loss of some specific details)
You may feel uncomfortable during the session when discussing painful memories
Emotional distress during or after the session
EMDR is not suitable for every individual

2. Is EMDR safe?

Yes, multiple studies recommend that EMDR is safe and evidence-based when performed by trained therapists.

3. How long do the side effects of EMDR last?

For many individuals, physical or emotional side effects such as vivid dreams, headaches, or dizziness peak within 24 hours. These are temporary and fade within 24–72 hours (1–3 days) after a session.

Some individuals report mild EMDR therapy after effects lasting up to one week. If side effects persist for more than 7 days, consult your EMDR therapist.

4. What are the risks associated with EMDR therapy?

EMDR generally has low risks; some individuals may experience temporary discomfort after a session, including:

Physical exhaustion
Resurfacing of unexpected memories
Heightened emotions
The most significant risk is an inadequately trained therapist with a lack of experience and skills.

Always choose an EMDR certified therapist to ensure effectiveness and safety.

MEDICAL DISCLAIMER

At TherapyFleet, we strive to enhance the quality of life for those dealing with mental health issues. Our licensed medical professionals meticulously research, edit, and review all content before publication. Nonetheless, this information should not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. For medical guidance, please consult your physician or reach out to Therapy Fleet’s qualified staff.