Definition
The preparation phase of EMDR (phase two) includes stabilization skills, resource-building, informed consent, and pacing. Skipping or shortening it is associated with poorer outcomes and higher risk of destabilization.
Why it matters
Rushing to processing before preparation is one of the most common ways EMDR harms patients. Preparation is not preliminary — it is protective.
The Science
Clinical guidelines and outcome studies consistently emphasize the importance of stabilization before processing, particularly in complex trauma.
The NSI Perspective
NSI treats preparation as part of the treatment. The pace is the practice.
Clinical Implications
Clinicians who cannot describe their preparation protocols are not ready to process trauma.
Practical Application
If you are considering EMDR, ask what preparation looks like. Specific answers matter.
References
- 1.International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation. Guidelines for treating dissociative identity disorder. J Trauma Dissociation. 2011;12(2):115–187.