The Hidden Dangers of EMDR Therapy: What You Need to Know Before You Begin
Discover the hidden dangers of EMDR therapy, including emotional risks, retraumatization, and side effects. Learn how to stay safe and informed before beginning Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing treatment.
Introduction
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has become one of the most talked-about approaches in trauma recovery. It’s praised by many clients and therapists for helping people reprocess painful experiences, reduce PTSD symptoms, and reclaim control over their lives. However, beneath the glowing success stories lies a set of real and often overlooked concerns—the dangers of EMDR therapy.
Every powerful tool comes with risks, and EMDR is no exception. While it has helped countless individuals find healing, others have walked away feeling worse, confused, or emotionally shattered. Understanding the dangers of EMDR therapy doesn’t mean rejecting it entirely—it means approaching it with awareness, caution, and the right support.
This article explores every dimension of EMDR’s potential risks—from emotional overload to false memories, dissociation, and even physical side effects. We’ll also cover how to identify a qualified therapist and the steps you can take to make this therapy safer.
Understanding EMDR Therapy
Before we can understand the dangers of EMDR therapy, we need to unpack what it is and how it works. EMDR therapy was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Dr. Francine Shapiro. The theory behind it is that trauma can get “stuck” in the brain’s information processing system. EMDR uses rapid eye movements or other bilateral stimulation (like tapping or tones) to help reprocess those memories so they no longer cause distress.
The therapy usually follows an eight-phase protocol, involving history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. During the core reprocessing phase, the therapist asks the client to recall distressing events while following their fingers or lights side to side with their eyes.
While the goal is to make traumatic memories less emotionally charged, the very act of bringing them up can open psychological wounds. This is where many of the dangers of EMDR therapy begin to surface.
Retraumatization: When Healing Becomes Harm
One of the most common and serious dangers of EMDR therapy is retraumatization—experiencing trauma all over again during or after the session.
How Retraumatization Happens
In EMDR, you’re asked to recall painful experiences in vivid detail. For some people, this process can feel like reliving the event rather than just remembering it. The therapy can trigger panic, flashbacks, crying spells, or even physical symptoms like trembling or nausea.
Without adequate emotional preparation, clients may leave sessions in a state of emotional chaos. Instead of reprocessing memories, their nervous systems go into fight-or-flight mode. Some describe feeling “raw,” “exposed,” or “broken open” for days afterward.
Preventing Retraumatization
A skilled EMDR therapist will never rush into trauma reprocessing without thorough preparation. They should teach grounding techniques, build trust, and ensure emotional safety before targeting painful memories. Clients should feel empowered to pause, slow down, or stop the session if it becomes overwhelming.
Quote:
“Healing from trauma isn’t about how fast you can face your pain—it’s about how safely you can hold it.”
When done without proper pacing or emotional safety, EMDR can do more harm than good, turning what should be a healing journey into another traumatic experience.
Dissociation and Emotional Fragmentation
Dissociation is another of the more subtle dangers of EMDR therapy. It happens when your mind detaches from your body, emotions, or surroundings as a way to protect itself from overwhelming stress.
How Dissociation Appears in EMDR
During EMDR, some clients “zone out,” lose time, or feel like they’re floating outside of themselves. They might finish the session unable to remember what they said or did. Others report feeling emotionally numb or disconnected for hours afterward.
This can be terrifying for clients who don’t understand what’s happening. Instead of integrating their trauma, they might feel more fragmented. Dissociation can make daily functioning difficult and even increase vulnerability to self-harm in extreme cases.
Managing Dissociation Safely
To minimize this risk, EMDR should be tailored for each individual. Therapists must monitor subtle cues—blank stares, slurred speech, or long silences—that suggest dissociation is occurring. Grounding exercises, safe-place visualizations, and pacing are critical tools.
Clients with a history of complex trauma or dissociative disorders should approach EMDR cautiously. If dissociation is severe, stabilizing therapy (like DBT or somatic experiencing) may be more appropriate before EMDR begins.
Emotional Flooding and Overwhelm
One of the often misunderstood dangers of EMDR therapy is emotional flooding—a state where emotions become so intense that they exceed the person’s ability to regulate them.
During EMDR, the brain rapidly connects fragments of past trauma. This can lead to an overwhelming surge of sadness, anger, fear, or guilt. It’s not uncommon for people to cry uncontrollably, shake, or even feel physically ill during or after a session.
Emotional flooding doesn’t always mean therapy is “working too well”—it often means it’s moving too fast. A good therapist will pace sessions to ensure emotions are tolerable and provide grounding support afterward.
A simple self-care table for after EMDR can look like this:
| After-Session Strategy | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Deep breathing or meditation | Calms the nervous system |
| Journaling about feelings | Promotes processing and integration |
| Walking or gentle exercise | Releases physical tension |
| Talking to a support person | Reinforces safety and grounding |
Remember: EMDR isn’t a race. Going slower can sometimes lead to deeper, more stable healing.
Memory Distortion and False Recall
Among the cognitive dangers of EMDR therapy, memory distortion is particularly controversial. Because EMDR involves stimulating both hemispheres of the brain while recalling events, it can alter the way memories are encoded and retrieved.
Some clients report “remembering new details” that feel real but are later discovered to be inaccurate. Others become unsure whether certain memories are genuine or imagined. In rare cases, EMDR may even contribute to the creation of false memories, especially when suggestive language is used.
This risk highlights the need for highly trained EMDR practitioners who follow ethical standards and avoid leading questions. Clients should be reminded that not every memory that surfaces is necessarily literal—it could represent symbolic or emotional truth rather than factual detail.
Quote:
“The goal of EMDR isn’t to prove the past—it’s to free you from its grip.”
When done responsibly, EMDR can reduce distress without distorting reality—but that balance is delicate.
Physical and Neurological Side Effects
Though EMDR is primarily psychological, the body often responds intensely. Some of the physical dangers of EMDR therapy can include:
- Headaches or migraines
- Dizziness or vertigo
- Fatigue and muscle tension
- Nausea or stomach discomfort
- Unexplained body pain
These side effects stem from the activation of the nervous system and the body’s “fight, flight, or freeze” response. Eye movements or tapping can also overstimulate sensitive individuals.
If physical symptoms persist, it’s essential to communicate with both the therapist and a medical professional. Grounding the body—through hydration, rest, and mindful movement—can often help restore balance after an intense EMDR session.
The Risk of Inexperienced or Unqualified Therapists
One of the hidden dangers of EMDR therapy isn’t the technique itself, but who delivers it. EMDR requires specialized training and certification. Unfortunately, not every therapist advertising EMDR is properly qualified.
An inexperienced or poorly trained therapist may:
- Rush into trauma processing too soon
- Misinterpret dissociation as progress
- Fail to provide grounding or aftercare
- Use EMDR on clients for whom it’s contraindicated (like active psychosis or severe dissociative identity disorder)
Choosing the right practitioner is crucial. Look for someone certified by recognized EMDR training programs and who integrates trauma-informed principles. Don’t be afraid to ask about their credentials, supervision, and experience.
Quote:
“The right therapist makes EMDR healing. The wrong one can make it harmful.”
Your mental health deserves the highest professional standard—never settle for less.
When EMDR Triggers Depression or Anxiety
Many clients expect EMDR to relieve anxiety and depression, but sometimes, these symptoms temporarily worsen. One of the under-discussed dangers of EMDR therapy is post-session emotional regression.
Why It Happens
During reprocessing, repressed emotions surface. People may confront grief, anger, or guilt that they’ve avoided for years. As these feelings rise to consciousness, mood fluctuations are natural. However, without proper support, clients might misinterpret this as failure or relapse.
Managing Emotional Lows
Therapists should normalize the emotional rollercoaster of EMDR. Clients must understand that temporary distress doesn’t mean therapy isn’t working—it’s part of the integration process. Regular check-ins, self-care, and gradual pacing can reduce the intensity of these emotional aftershocks.
Still, if depressive symptoms linger or escalate, EMDR may need to pause while stabilization techniques are reinforced.
The Danger of Using EMDR Too Early
Timing matters. Beginning EMDR before a client is emotionally or environmentally stable can be counterproductive. People in the midst of major life stressors—divorce, housing instability, active addiction—may not have the bandwidth to handle the demands of trauma reprocessing.
In such cases, EMDR can exacerbate symptoms rather than relieve them. Clients may feel exposed, disoriented, or emotionally unsafe. The therapy’s success depends on readiness—both psychological and situational.
An ethical therapist will assess readiness carefully before initiating EMDR, sometimes spending weeks or months preparing. Rushing the process is one of the avoidable dangers of EMDR therapy that stems from impatience or unrealistic expectations.
EMDR and Complex Trauma
Complex trauma (C-PTSD) involves prolonged or repeated exposure to distress, often from childhood. While EMDR can be effective for C-PTSD, it carries additional risks.
Because the trauma is layered and multifaceted, EMDR can open multiple emotional “doors” at once. The person may struggle to contain or process what emerges, leading to destabilization, emotional regression, or confusion about identity and memory.
A phased approach works best—focusing first on building stability, then processing smaller memories before tackling core trauma. Skipping steps is one of the primary dangers of EMDR therapy in complex trauma cases.
Table: Comparing Benefits vs. Dangers of EMDR Therapy
| Potential Benefits | Possible Dangers |
|---|---|
| Reduced PTSD symptoms | Retraumatization |
| Faster relief compared to talk therapy | Dissociation or emotional fragmentation |
| Improved emotional regulation | False or distorted memories |
| Increased self-awareness | Physical side effects (headaches, fatigue) |
| Closure from past trauma | Depression or anxiety after sessions |
Understanding both sides helps you make an informed decision rather than an impulsive one.
Who Should Avoid EMDR?
While EMDR can benefit many, it’s not suitable for everyone. People who may face higher risks include:
- Those with active psychosis or schizophrenia
- Individuals with untreated substance use disorders
- Clients with severe dissociation or multiple personality disorder
- People currently experiencing domestic violence or unsafe environments
- Individuals without a strong support system
Attempting EMDR without addressing these factors first can amplify harm instead of healing. A trauma-informed assessment should always precede treatment.
Tips to Stay Safe During EMDR
To minimize the dangers of EMDR therapy, preparation is key.
- Choose a qualified therapist – Verify certification and ask about supervision and trauma experience.
- Establish grounding tools – Practice breathing, visualization, or sensory grounding between sessions.
- Track your symptoms – Keep a journal of emotions and triggers after each session.
- Have a support system – Trusted friends or family can help you stay grounded.
- Communicate openly – Tell your therapist immediately if you feel unsafe or overwhelmed.
Safety and self-awareness are as important as the therapy itself.
Common Myths About EMDR
Myth: EMDR is quick and easy.
Reality: EMDR can be emotionally demanding and requires careful preparation.
Myth: It works for everyone.
Reality: Some people don’t respond well or may feel worse temporarily.
Myth: Any therapist can do EMDR.
Reality: Only certified professionals should conduct EMDR due to its complexity.
Myth: EMDR erases memories.
Reality: It doesn’t erase; it reprocesses and reduces emotional charge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Is EMDR dangerous for everyone?
No, EMDR isn’t inherently dangerous, but certain individuals—especially those with severe trauma, dissociation, or poor emotional stability—are more vulnerable to its risks.
Q2: Can EMDR cause false memories?
Yes, though rare, EMDR can sometimes lead to distorted or false memories if not conducted properly. Working with a skilled therapist helps minimize this risk.
Q3: How can I tell if my therapist is qualified?
Ask for EMDR certification, training history, and supervision details. A reputable therapist will be transparent about their credentials.
Q4: Why do I feel worse after EMDR sessions?
Feeling worse temporarily is common as your brain processes buried emotions. If distress persists, talk to your therapist about slowing down the pace.
Q5: Is EMDR suitable for childhood trauma?
It can be, but it requires an experienced trauma therapist who moves carefully and focuses on emotional safety first.
Q6: What should I do after an EMDR session?
Engage in self-care—rest, hydrate, reflect, and use grounding techniques. Avoid major emotional decisions for at least 24 hours.
Q7: Can EMDR make anxiety worse?
Yes, temporarily. Processing trauma can release repressed fear, which may heighten anxiety before it decreases.
Conclusion
EMDR therapy can be life-changing—but it’s not without risk. The dangers of EMDR therapy include retraumatization, dissociation, memory distortion, physical discomfort, and emotional flooding. These risks don’t mean EMDR should be feared or dismissed—they mean it should be approached with respect, preparation, and professional support.
When done by a skilled, trauma-informed therapist, EMDR can help transform lives. But healing from trauma is delicate work—it requires patience, safety, and compassion every step of the way.
In summary: EMDR is powerful, but not harmless. Know the risks, choose your therapist wisely, and remember—your pace, your safety, your healing.
