What to expect in your first EMDR therapy session at Aperture Psychology
By Dr Sophie Li Peter Walker
Starting a new kind of therapy can feel uncertain, especially when it looks quite different to anything you have tried before. If you have been referred for EMDR, or you are considering it at Aperture Psychology, knowing what actually happens in that first appointment can make the step feel far more manageable. This guide walks through what to expect with our clinicians, how to prepare, and what the early sessions involve.
A quick refresher on what EMDR is
Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an evidence-based, trauma-focused therapy. It is built on the idea that the memories associated with traumatic experiences can become stuck, continuing to influence how we feel, think and behave long after the event itself. EMDR helps the brain process these memories more fully, so they gradually lose their intensity. It is one of the evidence-based approaches our clinical psychologists draw on, and you can read more about how we use it on our EMDR therapy page.
Will I have to describe my trauma in detail?
This is one of the most common worries, and it is worth addressing early. One of the reasons we value EMDR at Aperture Psychology is that, unlike some exposure-based approaches, it does not require you to give a detailed account of what happened, and it does not direct your attention to any particular part of the experience. Instead, your psychologist invites you to notice whatever arises, whether that is images, thoughts, emotions or physical sensations, while following a simple set of eye movements (or other forms of bilateral stimulation). There are times when a person feels unable to verbalise the details of a traumatic experience, so in these cases EMDR can be a useful technique and may make EMDR more approachable than they expected.
What happens in your first session
At Aperture Psychology, your first EMDR session is usually about understanding and preparation rather than reprocessing. Your psychologist will begin by taking a history, asking about what has brought you in, your background, and the difficulties you would like to work on. This builds a clear picture and a shared plan for the work ahead. They will also explain how EMDR works and give you time to ask questions, so you feel informed about what is involved. An important part of these early sessions is establishing a sense of safety. Before any memory reprocessing begins, your psychologist will make sure you have practical ways to stay grounded and manage distress, such as simple calming and stabilisation techniques. Reprocessing of specific memories generally starts in a later session, once you and your psychologist agree you are ready. This staged, paced approach is deliberate, and it reflects the careful, formulation-led way we work across the practice.
How long does EMDR take?
EMDR is typically delivered over six to twelve sessions, scheduled once or twice a week, with each session lasting between 60 and 90 minutes. The exact number depends on what you are working on and how you respond. Some people notice shifts relatively quickly, while more complex or long-standing difficulties can take longer. Your psychologist will review progress with you along the way, so the work stays purposeful rather than open-ended.
How to prepare for your first appointment
There is very little you need to do in advance, and no homework to complete before you arrive. It can help to think about what you would like to get out of therapy, and to allow yourself a little time afterwards rather than rushing straight back into a busy day. If you have had previous therapy or assessments, bringing any relevant information can be useful, though it is not essential. Mostly, coming as you are is enough.
Is EMDR right for me?
EMDR was originally developed to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, and it remains a recommended treatment for trauma and PTSD, supported by bodies including the World Health Oragnisation (WHO), Australian Psychological Society (APS), American Psychological Association (APQA) and the EMDR Association of Australia (EMDRAA). It is also used to help with difficulties that grow out of distressing experiences more broadly. Not every painful memory involves a single dramatic event. Experiences such as bullying, humiliation or shame can leave lasting beliefs like "I am not good enough", and EMDR can be adapted to target the memories that sit beneath these patterns. If you are unsure whether it is the right fit, one of our clinical psychologists can help you weigh it against other evidence-based therapies such as CBT.
Starting EMDR at Aperture Psychology
Our experienced clinical psychologists offer EMDR at our Randwick and Marrickville practices in Sydney. If you would like to understand more about the wider process of therapy with us, you may find our post on what therapy actually looks like at Aperture Psychology helpful. When you are ready, you can get in touch with our team to ask a question or book an appointment.
To find out more, refer a client or make an appointment, visit our website or contact our team today.
