Before you ever process a distressing memory through EMDR, you’ll first build your toolkit of resources. One essential tool is the Calm Place practice, designed to soothe and stabilize your nervous system. In this blog post, we’ll share creative examples of calm places and offer guidance for those who struggle with visualization.

Positive States Practice is not about bypassing difficult emotions. It’s about nurturing the positive pathways that are already there, so that you can navigate difficult experiences in a more resourced way. Let’s explore what this practice looks like, and how it can enhance outcomes in EMDR trauma therapy.

Resourcing is the initial phase of the EMDR therapy protocol, designed to stabilize your nervous system and create a sense of calm and steadiness within yourself. Let’s delve into the Inner Ally practice — what it is, why it works, and how to create your own Nurturing, Protective, Playful, and Wise Figures.