If you've looked into EMDR therapy, you've likely heard about the different phases involved. Phase 4, the one with bilateral stimulation, gets a lot of attention because it's unique. But the other phases are very important. Phase 2 often flies under the radar. Yet Phase 2 lays the groundwork for effective trauma processing. In fact, we would argue it can be the most important phase. Phase 2 is the Resourcing Phase, when you are given tools and ways to manage difficult emotions. Let's explore the often overlooked benefits and necessity of Phase 2 and potential ways to build resources.

The Importance of Taking Time with Phase 2 in EMDR Therapy

In the rush to dive into trauma processing, Phase 2 of EMDR therapy often gets hurried through. But at our practice, we believe that Phase 2 is vital for laying a sturdy foundation for effective trauma resolution. Here's why we take our time with Phase 2 and why it's so crucial to the healing process.

Potential Elements of Resourcing In EMDR Therapy

So what does resourcing actually look like, if it's so important? It looks different to each person, because each person's need for support during trauma processing is different. But here are some of the potential elements of resourcing:

Creating a Calm Space

With this resource, your EMDR therapist helps you establish a safe and nurturing environment within themselves. It can be a real place you've been to, or an imagined or fictional place. This calm space serves as a refuge during intense EMDR processing.

Connecting with Nurturing Figures

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During Phase 2, clients are encouraged to connect with internal nurturing figures, whether they be imagined or drawn from real-life experiences. These figures serve as sources of comfort and support, providing a compassionate presence to accompany clients through their healing journey.

Tapping into the Wisdom Within

Phase 2 invites clients to tap into their inner wisdom by envisioning wise figures or accessing the innate wisdom within themselves. These guides offer insights and perspective can help you navigate the complexities of their trauma with clarity and discernment.

Imagining Protective Figures

In Phase 2, clients cultivate internal protective figures, embodying strength, resilience, and a sense of guardianship. These protective figures stand as steadfast guardians, shielding clients from the brunt of traumatic memories and offering a sense of security amidst vulnerability.

emdr therapist alexis bibler sits in a pink chair among many plants listening to a client go through their trauma history in preparation for emdr therapy los angeles — EMDR therapist Alexis Bibler, AMFT, listening to a client go through their trauma history in preparation for EMDR processing.

Nurturing Parts of the Self

Exploring nurturing parts of the self is a key aspect of Phase 2. Clients identify and nurture these inner aspects, fostering self-compassion, self-soothing, and self-care practices. These nurturing parts serve as inner allies, offering solace and support during moments of distress.

Finding Comfort in Objects and Memories

Comforting objects or positive memories can evoke feelings of safety and security. These tangible reminders serve as anchors during EMDR processing, providing a sense of grounding amidst emotional upheaval. If you have a specific object or memory, this can be part of your resourcing phase.

Integrating Internal Family Systems (IFS)

Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy can be integrated into Phase 2 of EMDR, allowing you to explore the various parts of yourself. By honoring and understanding these internal dynamics, clients gain insight into their inner landscape and cultivate greater self-awareness.

Mindfulness Practices

Mindfulness practices can help you cultivate present-moment awareness and non-judgmental acceptance of your inner experiences. These practices serve as tools for grounding and centering amidst trauma processing.

Understanding the Urge to Rush Past EMDR Phase 2

When someone is suffering, it's understandable to seek quick fixes and instant results. People just want to feel better! But the desire to find relief may overshadow the importance of laying a solid groundwork for lasting healing.

The Danger of Skipping Resourcing In EMDR Therapy

Rushing through the resourcing phase can have detrimental consequences for EMDR therapy. Without a strong foundation of safety and stability, you may find yourself ill-equipped to handle the intensity of the later phases of EMDR therapy.

Phases 3-5, the direct targeting and trauma processing phases, can be very intense. They involve directly thinking and sometimes talking about the upsetting memory. Without good resourcing, it can be too difficult.

EMDR Therapy Success Story: Sarah

Sarah, a 35-year-old survivor of childhood abuse, felt hesitant about engaging in EMDR therapy. But under the guidance of her EMDR therapist, she dedicated ample time to Phase 2, focusing on building a strong foundation of internal resources.

a woman sitting on her bed petting her cat holding a mug of tea representing good preparation for emdr therapy. our emdr therapists in los angeles and san francisco offer thorough preparation to help you succeed.

During Phase 2, Sarah practiced mindfulness techniques, connected with nurturing figures from her past, and identified comforting memories. She also used Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, exploring and nurturing various parts of herself.

As Sarah progressed through EMDR therapy, she found herself equipped with internal resources that provided support during challenging moments. With a sense of safety and stability, Sarah engaged in trauma processing with courage.

Over time, Sarah experienced profound healing and transformation. She was able to reprocess traumatic memories, release pent-up emotions, and reclaim a sense of agency and empowerment in her life. Today, Sarah continues to thrive, living a life marked by resilience, joy, and inner peace.

Lack of Resourcing EMDR Struggle: Mark

Mark, a 45-year-old struggling with PTSD, approached EMDR therapy with cautious optimism. Eager to move past his pain quickly, Mark breezed through Phase 2, neglecting to engage in resourcing practices.

Without a foundation of internal resources to lean on, Mark found himself overwhelmed during trauma processing sessions. Memories flooded his consciousness, triggering intense emotional distress and feelings of helplessness.

Despite his EMDR therapist's efforts to encourage resourcing and stabilization, Mark struggled to find relief from the intensity of EMDR therapy. Frustrated and disheartened, he began to doubt the effectiveness of EMDR, feeling as though he had hit a dead end. He felt hopeless to treat his PTSD.

Mark's reluctance to invest time in Phase 2 hindered his progress in EMDR therapy. Without the necessary internal resources to provide support and grounding, he was ill-prepared to face his trauma.

Lack of resourcing is a common reason that EMDR doesn't work. For other reasons, check out this article on common reasons EMDR doesn't help.

Honoring the Importance of Phase 2

As you embark on your journey of EMDR therapy, don't underestimate the significance of Phase 2. By building a strong foundation of resources, you lay the groundwork for transformation and healing.

The Value of Patience and Thorough Resourcing In EMDR Therapy

At our practice, we prioritize patience and care in Phase 2. We know that true healing takes time and cannot be rushed. Building a sense of safety, connection, and resilience is a gradual and ongoing process that requires nurturing and attention.

We also know it's frustrating to feel like you're not directly addressing the trauma right away when it feels so important.

By taking our time with Phase 2, we empower clients to fully commit to the journey of healing, rather than rushing to reach the destination. We encourage client to lean into the discomfort of uncertainty and vulnerability. It's in these spaces that transformation occurs.

Honoring Your Needs In EMDR Therapy

Alexis Bibler, AMFT

Alexis is an EMDR therapist working with adults and teens in California. She emphasizes resourcing and preparation before trauma processing to help clients have the best possible EMDR therapy outcomes.

The resourcing phase of EMDR therapy is often the most personalized and creative. It highlights what specifically helps you feel grounded, calm, and capable.

We recognize that every client's journey is unique. We tailor our approach to meet your needs and pacing. Whether it takes weeks, months, or even longer to establish a sense of safety and stability, we are committed to walking alongside our clients every step of the way.

The Power of Steady Progress In EMDR Therapy

Coriann Papazian, LMFT

Coriann is an EMDR therapist working with adults in California & Florida. She believes in building a strong therapist-client relationship as part of EMDR therapy resourcing.

While the temptation to rush through Phase 2 may be strong, we believe in the power of steady progress. By taking the time to cultivate a strong foundation in Phase 2, clients are better equipped to engage in the deeper work of trauma processing with resilience, courage, and grace.

Trusting the EMDR Therapy Process

We invite you to trust the process and embrace the importance of taking time with Phase 2 in EMDR therapy. By prioritizing patience, care, and attention to detail, we lay the groundwork for profound healing and transformation. Take the first step towards healing today by scheduling a free consultation with our dedicated team of EMDR therapists. Together, we'll work toward healing, growth, and self-discovery, one step at a time.

EMDR Therapy In San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Throughout California & Florida

Ready to take the next step in your healing journey? Schedule a free consultation with our experienced EMDR therapists in California. Let us support you in unlocking the power of Phase 2 and guiding you towards a path of healing and wholeness.