Looking for counselling Richmond Hill services is only the first step towards your recovery journey. The most difficult part of seeking therapy is preparing yourself for your first session, and it might be particularly intimidating for those who will receive EMDR Therapy Thornhill.
EMDR therapy – short for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy – involves processing and resolving traumatic memories. You might feel uneasy and unsure of what to expect, and that is a valid feeling.
This article will walk you through the best simple ways to prepare for your first EMDR appointment.
Searching for EMDR Therapy
To formally begin your EMDR therapy journey, you need to find qualified professionals specialized in providing this service. You can quickly find a therapist through referrals from your primary care physician or a mental health provider like Wild Sage Therapy.
If you feel comfortable doing so, you can also ask for recommendations from family and friends.
What to Expect in EMDR Therapy
Understanding the processes of EMDR therapy can help you prepare for your first session. The following are the steps you can expect:
- History and Assessment – The therapist collects information about the individual’s history and identifies the target traumatic memories.
- Preparation – prepare the individual for the process and ensure they feel safe and supported
- Assessment – The therapist will assess the vividness and emotional intensity of the target trauma memory.
- Desensitization and Body Scan – The individual recalls the memory while engaging in bilateral stimulation. The therapist then helps identify and process residual physical sensations associated with the traumatic memory.
- Reevaluation – After the session, the individual’s progress is reevaluated to determine adjustments to the treatment plan.
Preparing for EMDR Therapy
While it may sound intimidating at first to attend an EMDR therapy session, this practice can significantly improve your overall well-being for the short and long term. It is normal to feel nervous about it, but here are the steps you can take to calm yourself beforehand:
Practice Self-Care
Taking care of yourself is a must, regardless of any situation. Before the EDRM therapy session, be kind to yourself and practice self-care to ensure your body and mind are in optimal shape.
Days before, be sure to have sufficient sleep and stay nourished. Eat healthy meals and stay hydrated so you feel fresh and ready to talk to your therapist.
Journaling Your Thoughts
The idea of opening yourself up to a therapist might flood your mind and overwhelm you with anxious thoughts. A quick way to cope with this positively is to start journaling.
You can start by grabbing a notebook and pen and writing down your thoughts. You can also include the feelings, thoughts, and memories you would like to address to help you gain insight into your emotional state.
Bring Comfort Items
To reduce anxiety and maintain calmness, you may bring comfort items with you to the session. This can be a stuffed animal, a favorite clothing item, or anything that gives you security and warmth.
You can also consider online EMDR so you feel more comfortable in a safe space with your favorite items.
Are You Ready to Take the First Step?
We understand that therapy is daunting for individuals with trauma and other unprocessed emotions. This is why we at Wild Sage Therapy are here to offer convenient and trustworthy online therapy services from Ontario Canada.To learn more about EMDR and how it can help you overcome the worries in your life, visit Wild Sage Therapy to book a free 15-minute session with our therapist.