[ringpops_18]

I've been with my therapist for 8 months and have a history of complex trauma. I initially came to my therapist because her website said she does brainspotting, somatic therapy, psychodynamic therapy, EMDR, among other things. I was hoping we could do some more somatic work, but she let me know EMDR would be the best course of action. Even initially, I expressed concerns about this because I really don't want to do EMDR, given the intense dysregulation you can experience. It kind of felt like my concerns were brushed off and the conclusion was basically "well this is what is recommended, so that's what we're doing."

We've worked on the safe place and container throughout this time, but I still don't feel comfortable with it. I feel like EMDR is cold and robotic, and what's been most helpful for me is the relationship and reflection. Honestly, I would rather just keep doing what we're doing. We're supposed to start reprocessing in the upcoming weeks, and my anxiety has been worse. When I asked last session what other options we could maybe use, she basically just said taking breaks until I'm ready again for EMDR. She was also very vague about other possible modalities, just saying "there are other options" and "we'll cross that bridge if we get there." I kind of feel like I'm being railroaded into EMDR regardless, which makes me feel like I have no control. Honestly, if she would have just been clear about other options, I would probably be more open to at least trying EMDR. But now, I just feel more resistant. I feel so stuck. I like my therapist but it feels like she's not listening to me.

[Therapy reviewed]

What does "i like her mean"? It's irrelevant really.. If she's not giving you a say in your therapy then I'd quit.. All this liking business is for the sch playground..

[HALLIEBETH87]

no one should be pushed into doing emdr. it takes a lot fo hard wokr and i wasnt ready when i started it. i quickly got in a bad place. weve never gone back to it.

[Lemoncake]

You need to find a new therapist.

Like the others have said, If you don't want to do EDMR it'snot something you should be forced into.

[Taylor27]

A couple weeks ago my therapist suggested EMDR and I told her right now I'm not ready yet and she was okay with my response. She is able to help me still as she has training in other therapies. I think doing EMDR takes time to do and it's something that should not be rushed. My last therapist was trained in EMDR and with seeing her for 3 years I was still no where near ready to do EMDR yet. A good therapist will understand where you are and try to work with you.

I think you need to find another therapist. I'm sorry you feel forced that's not right. 8 months of therapy is not long at all especially for complex trauma.