Overcoming Common Barriers to Starting EMDR Therapy

If you’ve been curious about EMDR therapy but find yourself hesitating to start, you’re not alone. Many people who could benefit from EMDR feel unsure, anxious, or even intimidated before taking that first step.

As a trauma therapist, I hear it all the time:

“What if it’s too intense?”
“I don’t even know where to start.”
“I’m not sure I’m ready.”

These feelings make sense. Healing from trauma takes courage—and so does reaching out for help. The good news? Most of the barriers that keep people from accessing EMDR are completely normal and can be worked through with the right support.

Let’s talk about what those barriers look like and how you can move past them.

1. “I Don’t Know What EMDR Actually Is.”

Barrier: EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) can sound technical or even mysterious if you’ve only read about it online.

The Truth: EMDR is a structured, evidence-based therapy that helps your brain process trauma and distressing memories in a safe, guided way. It uses gentle bilateral stimulation (like eye movements or tapping) to help both sides of your brain communicate and heal.

How to Overcome It: Ask questions! A good EMDR therapist will explain every step before you begin. Your first session is about safety and understanding—not jumping into trauma work. You get to move at your own pace.

2. “I’m Afraid It Will Be Overwhelming.”

Barrier: Many people worry that EMDR will force them to relive their trauma or feel flooded with emotion.

The Truth: EMDR isn’t about re-experiencing trauma—it’s about reprocessing it. You won’t be thrown into painful memories without tools or support. Your therapist will teach grounding techniques and ensure you have a sense of safety before any deeper work begins.

How to Overcome It: Share your fears openly with your therapist. EMDR is designed to keep you within a “window of tolerance”—where healing happens without overwhelm. You always have control to pause, slow down, or stop a session if needed.

3. “I Don’t Think My Trauma Is ‘Big Enough.’”

Barrier: Many people minimize their pain, thinking EMDR is only for veterans or people with major trauma.

The Truth: EMDR helps with all kinds of distress—big or small. Whether you’ve been through abuse, loss, bullying, medical trauma, or years of quiet invalidation, your experiences matter. EMDR can help with anxiety, chronic shame, grief, and even the stress of being neurodivergent in a world that doesn’t always understand.

How to Overcome It: If something still affects you—shows up in your body, relationships, or dreams—it’s worth healing. You don’t need to earn your right to therapy.

4. “I Can’t Find an EMDR Therapist Who Feels Right for Me.”

Barrier: Finding a therapist who gets you—especially if you’re neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, or a person of color—can be difficult.

The Truth: The therapeutic relationship matters as much as the method. Feeling seen and safe with your therapist is key to successful EMDR work.

How to Overcome It: Look for EMDR therapists who specifically name your identities or experiences on their website. Ask people you know if they have any recommendations. Many of us offer free consultations so you can see if it’s a good fit. Trust your instincts—you deserve a space that feels affirming and respectful.

5. “It’s Hard to Make Time or Afford Therapy.”

Barrier: Life is busy, and therapy can feel like one more thing to juggle—especially if finances are tight.

The Truth: Healing takes time, but it also gives time back. When you’re not constantly battling anxiety, flashbacks, or sleep problems, you have more energy for the things that matter most.

How to Overcome It:

• Ask your therapist about sliding-scale rates, superbills, or virtual sessions for flexibility.

• Even a few consistent sessions can make a meaningful difference.

• Remember: therapy is an investment in your lifelong well-being.

6. “I’m Not Sure I’m Ready.”

Barrier: This one might be the hardest—and the most common.

The Truth: Feeling uncertain means you’re aware of what healing requires. That awareness is actually a sign you are ready—you’re thinking carefully about your needs and safety.

How to Overcome It: Start small. You don’t need to decide everything today. Schedule a consultation, ask questions, or just learn more about EMDR. Healing begins with one brave step, not a leap.

You Deserve Healing That Feels Safe

At Existnow Therapy, I specialize in EMDR therapy that honors your full story—especially for neurodivergent, LGBTQ+, and Latine clients who deserve trauma care that’s culturally sensitive, inclusive, and empowering.

You don’t have to face your fears or trauma alone.
Together, we can create a space where healing feels possible—and where you finally feel like yourself again.

👉 Contact me today to learn how EMDR therapy can help you move forward with confidence and care.