Watch: What is EMDR therapy? (4:10)
A two-minute verbal explanation
Most clients need three things: what EMDR is for, what will actually happen in the room, and what it will feel like. A version that works:
"When something overwhelming happens, the brain sometimes stores the memory in a raw form — the images, body sensations and beliefs stay live, as if the event is still happening. EMDR helps the brain finish processing that memory. We'll bring up a piece of the memory for short periods while you follow my fingers, listen to alternating tones, or tap — then we pause and you tell me what you notice. You stay in control the whole time, and we stop whenever you need to. Most people notice the memory feels further away and less charged, even though you'll still remember what happened."
Metaphors that work — and their limits
- The filing cabinet — unprocessed memories sit on the desk instead of being filed. Good for AIP; avoid implying memories are deleted.
- The two trains — dual attention: one foot in the present, one in the past. Useful for explaining why we keep grounding.
- The wound and the splinter — the body heals once the irritant is removed. Helpful, but don't promise a fixed number of sessions.
- The river and the rocks — when processing loops or stalls, and why interweaves are used.
Keep claims accurate: EMDR has strong evidence for PTSD and is recommended by the WHO and APA treatment guidelines, but mechanism explanations (AIP, working memory taxation) are models, not settled fact. Say "one explanation is…" rather than "what happens is…".
What to cover before the first reprocessing session
- The eight phases in one sentence each — so the client knows reprocessing isn't session one.
- What bilateral stimulation is, the options available, and that they choose the modality.
- The stop signal and that they can pause any set.
- That distress can rise mid-set and usually settles by the end of the session.
- Between-session effects: dreams, memories surfacing, tiredness — and the log to track them.
- Consent: risks, alternatives, and expected course of treatment.
Pair the handout with the bilateral stimulation client guide and the between-session log.
Reviewed by the EMDR Assist Clinical Team.
Educational reference material for EMDR-trained clinicians. It does not replace EMDRIA-approved Basic Training, consultation, supervision, or clinical judgement, and it is not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a free EMDR explanation PDF for clients?
Yes — the 'What is EMDR?' handout is a free, plain-language client PDF covering what EMDR is, what happens in session, and what to expect between sessions.
How do I explain EMDR without over-promising?
Describe the process and the evidence separately. EMDR is a recommended treatment for PTSD; the mechanism (adaptive information processing, working-memory taxation) is a model. Avoid session-count guarantees.
When should I give clients the handout?
Usually at the end of the first session or during Phase 2 preparation, so they have the explanation in writing before reprocessing begins.
What should I say about bilateral stimulation?
Explain it as short sets of alternating left-right attention — eye movements, tones, or tapping — that the client can choose between, and that they can stop at any point.
Do children need a different explanation?
Yes. Use the child-friendly explainer in the EMDR for Kids bundle, which uses simpler language and illustrations.
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