Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is widely known as an effective, evidence-based treatment for trauma and distressing life experiences. Yet for some people, EMDR doesn’t seem to work the first time they try it—or it works only partially. If that’s been your experience, it can feel discouraging and confusing.

4 Reasons Why EMDR Therapy May Not Have Worked

1. The Nervous System Wasn’t Ready: EMDR relies on your brain’s ability to process memories without becoming overwhelmed. If your nervous system was still in a constant state of fight or flight, your brain may not have been able to engage in reprocessing safely. In these cases, EMDR can either feel overwhelming or like nothing is happening.

2. Not Enough Preparation or Resourcing: Sometimes therapy moves too quickly into memory processing without enough time spent building emotional regulation skills or trust in the therapeutic relationship. Without these resources, your system may shut down or resist the work.

3. Dissociation Interfered with Processing: If you dissociate, EMDR may not have reached the parts of the brain where memories are stored. When dissociation isn’t addressed directly, EMDR can feel ineffective.

4. The Therapeutic Fit Wasn’t Right: The relationship with your EMDR therapist plays a significant role in the processing of traumatic memories. If you feel rushed, misunderstood, or unsafe with your therapist, the brain not fully engage in reprocessing. Healing happens best in a relationship where you feel seen, respected, and emotionally safe.

How EMDR Therapy Can Be More Effective

A second round of EMDR may begin more slowly, with greater attention to safety and stability. This can involve nervous system regulation, learning how to stay present, building coping skills, and creating internal safety. Additionally, dissociation can be addressed to limit interference with the processing of memories. Lastly, a stronger therapeutic relationship can help you feel safe, understood, and respected, which allows the nervous system to relax and effectively process disturbing memories.

Giving EMDR Therapy a Second Try

EMDR therapy is not one size fits all and sometimes it takes a few tries to find the right pacing and therapeutic fit. I offer online EMDR Therapy for individuals feeling stuck in their healing process. Through EMDR therapy you can develop healthier and more adaptive ways of thinking, viewing, and perceiving yourself and the world. Contact me today to get started with EMDR Therapy. Offered in Tennessee, Georgia, and North Carolina.