Bandai Choi
MSSc, MAPS, MCCLP, AFHKPS | Clinical Psychologist
Breathe-n-Smile Psychology, Essendon North, Footscray and telehealth
TL;DR
- EMDR includes a preparation phase before memory reprocessing. The amount of preparation varies with the person, their goals and current circumstances.
- Preparation focuses on exploring coping strategies, learning body-based grounding skills, and establishing pause signals.
- Memory reprocessing is considered when clinician and client agree that it is appropriate to begin.
- Sessions available in Essendon North, Footscray, and via telehealth across Victoria.
What actually happens before EMDR memory processing begins? A common concern for people considering EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is that they may be asked to confront overwhelming memories before feeling ready.
EMDR includes a preparation phase before memory reprocessing. The amount of preparation varies with the person, their goals, and current circumstances.
Why Phase 2: Preparation is explored in trauma therapy
Plain answer: Preparation aims to equip your nervous system with emotional regulation tools so you can stay anchored in present safety while working with painful past memories.
In EMDR therapy, the preparation phase aims to develop “dual awareness”—the ability to stay anchored in present safety while attending to past distress.
Grounding skills that may be introduced during preparation
During early sessions, a clinical psychologist may introduce grounding techniques tailored to your preferences, such as:
Grounding techniques that may be explored
- Mental Imagery & Container Exercises: Exploring mental imagery anchors to temporarily set aside intrusive thoughts between sessions.
- Calm State Imagery: Cultivating mental anchors associated with safety and relaxation, reinforced with slow bilateral tapping.
- Somatic Grounding & Breath Anchors: Utilizing tactile tools, posture, or controlled breathing to support emotional regulation.
- Clear Pause Signals: Establishing explicit verbal or hand signals so you can ask to pause or stop at any time.
Clinical protocols for trauma preparation
Clinical protocols established by the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA) emphasize that the phase-oriented model includes preparation and emotional stabilization before memory reprocessing is introduced.
How clinicians and clients discuss readiness for reprocessing
Moving from preparation to active memory reprocessing is a collaborative clinical decision. Factors that may be discussed include:
- Current daily stress levels and available coping strategies.
- Privacy, support systems, and whether current circumstances feel appropriate to begin.
- A sense of trust and collaborative safety with your clinician.
- Understanding what reprocessing involves and maintaining choice over target selection and pacing.
Reassuring principle: Preparation is an active, therapeutic skill-building phase that supports day-to-day emotional regulation and coping.
EMDR therapy in Essendon North and Footscray
Breathe-n-Smile Psychology provides trauma-informed EMDR therapy at our Essendon North (82 Keilor Road) and Footscray (107 Droop Street) clinics. Telehealth consultations may also be suitable depending on privacy, technology, clinical fit, and current needs.
Practical next steps for exploring EMDR therapy
How to begin EMDR safely
- Ask about clinician approach: Confirm that your therapist follows a phase-oriented, trauma-informed EMDR protocol.
- Focus on stability first: Let your clinician know if you are currently experiencing high stress, sleep issues, or burnout so early sessions can focus on stabilization.
- Discuss Medicare rebates: Speak with your GP about a Mental Health Treatment Plan to claim Medicare rebates for individual consultations.
Common questions about EMDR preparation
How long does EMDR preparation usually take?
Preparation length varies with the person, their goals, and current circumstances, and can be revisited whenever needed.
Can EMDR preparation be done via telehealth?
Some preparation work may be suitable by telehealth, depending on privacy, technology, clinical fit, and current needs.
What if I feel overwhelmed during an EMDR session?
You can use your pre-agreed pause signal at any time. Your clinician will guide you back to a grounding anchor to pause, ground, and decide what is appropriate for the session.
Suggested reading and helpful guides
- EMDR vs Trauma-Focused CBT – Comparing cognitive restructuring and bilateral memory reprocessing in Melbourne.
- What Does Trauma-Informed Therapy Mean? – Pacing, safety, and collaborative choice in trauma recovery.
- EMDR for Attachment & Relational Trauma – Reprocessing childhood emotional neglect and relationship triggers.
- Psychology Fees and Medicare Rebates – Clear fee structures, rebates, and funding options.
Exploring EMDR therapy?
Breathe-n-Smile Psychology offers trauma-informed EMDR therapy in Essendon North, Footscray, and online across Victoria.
Explore EMDR Therapy Send an EnquiryReferences
- EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA). EMDR Therapy Phase Protocol and Guidelines. 2023.
- Shapiro F. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy. 3rd ed. Guilford Press; 2018.