The Dangers of EMDR Therapy: Risks, Side Effects, and Warnings

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is often described as a breakthrough in trauma recovery. It is one of the most studied treatments for PTSD and is supported by organizations like the World Health Organization and the American Psychological Association. As EMDR becomes more common  it is important to look beyond the idea of a “miracle cure” and see it as a strong, brain-based therapy.

Although EMDR works well for many people, it is not a “quick fix” and can have risks if not handled properly. Since the therapy works directly with the brain’s information-processing system, it may cause strong emotional changes and physical reactions. This article looks at possible risks, explains who should be careful, and describes what to expect during therapy to help make recovery safe and effective.

What Is EMDR Therapy?

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing^[1] (EMDR) is a form of therapy specifically structured to facilitate the recovery process of people who have been experiencing emotionally and physically traumatic situations. Imagine your brain has a natural “healing system” where your skin is capable of healing itself after a physical injury. However, that system can get overwhelmed during a very stressful or traumatic event, leaving the memory “frozen” at the point where it shows the highest level of emotion.

The EMDR works  by helping the brain to “throw out” the stuck memories so that they can be correctly processed and stored. This is done through bilateral stimulation^[2] which involves middle- to-left rhythmic triggers like eye movements, sounds, or tapping. The main goal is to change the way the brain records those memories so that you feel much less emotional distress and trauma whenever the past trauma gets triggered.

EMDR is commonly used to treat:

• PTSD and CPTSD
• Anxiety and panic disorders
• Phobias^[3]
• Depression related to trauma
• Childhood abuse and neglect
• Performance Anxiety
• Chronic Pain ^[4]

The WHO recognizes EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD, especially in adults who have experienced trauma.

To understand which trauma conditions EMDR is commonly used for, read our detailed guide on CPTSD vs PTSD: Key Differences, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment.

How Does it Actually Work?

EMDR is very different from conventional therapy which focuses mainly on talking through the trauma/experience in detail. It incorporates Bilateral Stimulation (BLS) instead. 

The Process:

As you concentrate on a certain traumatic event, your therapist assists you throughout the session and observes the body language like moving your eyes from one side to the other (or uses hand taps, or auditory tones). 

The Theory:

This side to side stimulation is thought to replicate REM sleep, the stage of sleep during which your brain processes what you did during the day. This enables the brain to “absorb” the trauma gradually, shifting it from the emotional, reactive part of the brain (the amygdala^[5]) to the reasoning part of the brain (the cortex^[6]).

Who should be careful with EMDR therapy? 

Many people doubt whether EMDR is safe or not, while it can be safe for some and can be totally different for others. Let’s understand who should take EMDR therapy with caution include:

• People with emotional disconnection
• Those with active psychosis or untreated schizophrenia
• People having unstable bipolar disorder
• People with uncontrolled substance use disorder

Is EMDR Therapy Dangerous?

EMDR is not dangerous if done by a trained and licensed mental health professional. However, the therapy can temporarily increase the emotional distress of the person. Let’s talk about

short-term side effects which include:

• Flashbacks or nightmares
• Temporary increase in anxiety
• Emotional Overwhelm
• Emotional fatigue after sessions
• Dizziness or tightness

These effects are temporary and will be resolved with each session.

Long-term side effects include:

Current research does not show significant long-term harm associated with EMDR when properly administered. However, potential risks may arise if:

• EMDR is started too early without emotional stabilization
• Therapy is conducted by an untrained provider
• Complex trauma is addressed too quickly

For individuals with complex trauma histories, a slower, phased approach is often recommended.

Warning Signs EMDR May Not Be Right for You

EMDR may not be suitable if you experience:

• Severe dissociation during sessions
• Feeling emotionally flooded for days after therapy
• Increased self-harm urges
• Difficulty staying grounded in the present
• Worsening symptoms without relief

Final Thoughts

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a well-supported, evidence-based therapy for trauma recovery and is endorsed by major health organizations, including the WHO and American Psychiatric Association.

However, EMDR is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Careful assessment, proper training, and individualized treatment planning are essential to ensure safety and effectiveness.

If you are considering EMDR, consult a licensed mental health professional who can evaluate whether it is the right approach for your needs.

EMDR can sometimes intensify emotional responses, especially in people struggling with mood instability. See our article on Mood Swings with PTSD or Bipolar: How to Tell the Difference.