Transitioning From Talk Therapy to EMDR

Transitioning from talk therapy to EMDR Therapy presents unique challenges and opportunities for therapists. As therapists, it's natural to feel both excitement and apprehension when introducing a new therapeutic model to clients, particularly something unique like EMDR Therapy. Shifting to a therapy that involves eye movements can initially feel unfamiliar and even uncomfortable. Some therapists feel awkward when explaining bilateral stimulation, concerned that their clients may perceive this as unconventional or even weird.

My Early Days as an EMDR Therapist

I can relate to this, as I remember feeling awkward and clunky when I first trained in EMDR Therapy. I felt self-conscious when initially facilitating eye movements, particularly when one of my clients repeatedly giggled at my arm movements, disrupting the flow of memory reprocessing. These moments, though somewhat uncomfortable at the time, were incredibly valuable. They taught me the importance of embracing the unique aspects of EMDR Therapy.

Starting out with any new skill can be daunting, and EMDR Therapy is no exception. It requires a willingness to experience a bit of clumsiness whist learning the process. Over time, I have learned to appreciate and even celebrate the quirks of EMDR because they mirror my own - different and a bit unconventional, yet effective.

Embracing the Uniqueness of EMDR Therapy

It can be helpful for EMDR therapists to name and ‘own’ that EMDR is a bit different, and in doing so, present this as a positive opportunity for their clients. The uniqueness of EMDR Therapy offers a fresh perspective to clients who have not seen their issues resolved through traditional therapy approaches.

You might say something like, "EMDR is different from what we’ve tried together before, and it may seem a bit unusual. But it’s highly regarded, backed by evidence, and I genuinely think that it could be helpful for you. If what we've been doing so far hasn’t fully addressed your concerns, why would we not try a different approach? Are you willing to give it a go and see what it’s like?”

I've found that when I introduce EMDR Therapy with confidence and frame it as a safe, evidence-based and innovative option, clients are not only willing but eager to give it a try. The results, as they often discover, speak for themselves.

Overcome EMDR Challenges with Confidence

If you're an EMDR therapist facing challenges in your practice, you might like to consider purchasing my ‘Troubleshooting in EMDR Therapy’ on-demand webinar. This training is designed to help you address common obstacles and boost your confidence as an EMDR therapist.

I'm Caroline Burrows, an Accredited EMDR Trainer and Consultant. I’m passionate about bridging the gap between EMDR training and clinical practice. If you're looking to learn EMDR Therapy for the first time, enhance your EMDR skills, or navigate challenges in your EMDR clinical work, I offer training workshops, on-demand webinars, and consultation. I would love to support your EMDR learning journey.