You’ve heard the saying “the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago. The second best time is today.” But is this true of starting trauma therapy?

Determining when to begin trauma therapy is a personal decision that varies for each person. It's important to honor your own timeline. Some people may feel ready for trauma therapy soon after a traumatic event, while others may need more time. Both responses are valid, and you have to listen to your own needs and instincts.

It's also important to know there are instances where starting trauma therapy early can be beneficial in preventing PTSD. By addressing emotional trauma early on, you can reduce the risk of symptoms worsening over time.

The Benefits of Early Intervention with EMDR Therapy

Research suggests that the timing of starting EMDR therapy after a traumatic event can have an impact on its effectiveness. While there is variability, some studies suggest that starting EMDR within the first few weeks or months following a traumatic event may lead to better outcomes.

One study found that participants who received EMDR therapy within three months of a traumatic event showed significant improvements in PTSD symptoms compared to those who received delayed treatment. Another study found that early EMDR intervention was associated with greater reductions in trauma-related symptoms compared to delayed treatment.

When Early Intervention Is Not A Good Idea

It's important to note that EMDR isn't always effective if the traumatic situation is ongoing. For example, living with an abusive partner or living in an area that experiences ongoing violence. Still, there is plenty to be gained from trauma therapy even if the situation is ongoing, including healthy coping skills and self-soothing. There may be a reduction in overall distress as well.

Other Factors Influencing EMDR Therapy's Effectiveness

The effectiveness of EMDR therapy is not solely determined by timing. Factors such as the severity of the trauma, individual differences in coping, and the quality of the therapeutic relationship also play significant roles. The best thing you can do when starting trauma therapy is make sure you feel really good about your therapist. It's also important that you have time and energy to devote to your care.

While there may be benefits to starting EMDR therapy soon after a traumatic event, the decision should be made together with a therapist who can assess your specific needs. Whether you choose to begin therapy early or later, EMDR can still be a valuable tool in helping you process and heal from traumatic experiences.

What To Do If You Don't Feel Ready For Trauma Therapy

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It makes complete sense to be hesitant to revisit upsetting things. Trauma processing isn't anyone's idea of a good time. Even if you feel scared and anxious to start trauma therapy, we recommend putting out some feelers. You don't have to talk about what happened in the first few sessions. If a therapist pressures you to go there before you're ready, find another therapist. A good trauma therapist will build rapport and safety before diving into difficult topics

EMDR therapists should spend plenty of time on the first two phases of EMDR's 8 phase model. The first two phases are history collection and resourcing. People are often focused on the processing of upsetting memories, but processing before you've got good resources can be too difficult. Spending time on resourcing is a vital part of trauma therapy. Otherwise, it can feel more destabilizing.

See our article about 10 reasons EMDR doesn't work here.

Examples of Different Timing Scenarios

Immediate EMDR Therapy Intervention

Maria was in a car accident that left her really shaken. For a week she had flashbacks and nightmares. It felt impossible to get back behind the wheel. She decided to start EMDR therapy right away to address her symptoms and prevent them from worsening over time. After processing the incident, she was able to drive without heightened anxiety. She did not develop PTSD and feels totally fine now.

Early EMDR Therapy Intervention

Alex witnessed a traumatic event at work three months ago and experienced increased anxiety and hypervigilance. After discussing his options with a therapist, Alex decides to begin EMDR therapy to address his anxiety and hypervigilance. He was able to process the event in a handful of sessions and get back to his normal functioning.

Delayed EMDR Therapy Intervention

David experienced a sexual trauma during college. While he initially coped with his symptoms on his own, David decided to start EMDR therapy a few years later after realizing that his unresolved trauma continued to impact his relationships and quality of life. He did six months of EMDR therapy and feels much better now.

Decades Delayed EMDR Therapy Intervention

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Sarah experienced a childhood trauma that has affected her mental health for years, but she wasn't able to seek professional help until now. After reaching a turning point in her life, Sarah decided to start EMDR therapy twenty years after the traumatic events occurred. She worked with a therapist for several years and they made fantastic progress. Today she feels much more grounded and confident. It's never too late to begin the healing process.

If you're unsure about whether to start trauma therapy, it may be helpful to consider seeking support sooner rather than later. This is especially true if you're struggling. Therapy can provide tools to handle trauma response symptoms.

Does Trauma Ever Go Away On Its Own?

In short, sometimes. Research is still figuring out why some people experience something upsetting and recover on their own, while others develop PTSD. There seem to be a lot of factors that influence it. If it's been more than a few months and you're still having upsetting memories, physical reactions to reminders of the trauma, nightmares, or flashbacks, you likely need support to feel better.

It's normal to feel upset and shaken after something upsetting happens. For a general timeline of what to expect, check out this article about the difference between acute stress, PTSD, and Complex PTSD.

It's Never Too Late to Feel Better

No matter how long you've been struggling with the effects of trauma, there is always hope for improvement and growth.

For many people, the decision to seek therapy can be daunting, especially if they've been coping with their symptoms for an extended period. It's common to wonder whether it's too late to make a change or if the damage is already done. The truth is that healing is a deeply personal and ongoing process, and there is no expiration date on when you can start feeling better.

EMDR therapy can can be incredibly effective in addressing the trauma and helping you develop healthier coping mechanisms. Even if you've been carrying the weight of your experiences for years, EMDR can help you to explore your emotions and process your trauma.

Healing Trauma Is Deeply Personal

It's important to recognize that healing is not linear. There may be ups and downs along the way, and progress may take time. Unfortunately, EMDR has developed a reputation for being a "quick fix" when it usually isn't. It does still take time. But in terms of effectiveness, research has proven it to be incredibly effective when given time to work.

You deserve to feel better, and you are worthy of support and compassion. It's never too late to take that first step towards reclaiming your life.

Alexis Bibler, AMFT

Alexis is a fully trained EMDR therapist. She works online with clients in California.

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

Laurel Roberts-Meese, LMFT

Laurel is a fully trained EMDR therapist. She works online with clients in California, Florida, and Pennsylvania.

Ultimately, the decision to begin trauma therapy rests with you. There's no shame in seeking support when you need it, and therapy can be a valuable resource in your journey toward healing and recovery. If you'd like to get started building a safe and trusting relationship with a trauma therapist, book a consultation today. We'll chat and see if we're a good match.