The Truth About EMDR and DID: Before You Start Therapy (Part 1)
(Summary) EMDR therapy can be an effective tool for trauma treatment, but for people with Dissociative Identity Disorder (DID) or Other Specified Dissociative Disorder (OSDD), it comes with unique challenges and risks. Many survivors wonder if EMDR is safe for dissociative systems, especially since the therapy is often presented as quick and straightforward. In this video, we explore how EMDR actually works, why the first three phases are critical for building safety, what red flags to watch out for if a therapist rushes trauma work, and the role of system protectors in making therapy effective. Learn what to expect so you can approach EMDR with caution, clarity, and confidence.
Is EMDR safe for DID and OSDD? The short answer: it can be when utilized by a well-trained therapist. EMDR stands for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing . It is powerful for PTSD, but dissociative systems face unique risks if it’s rushed or used incorrectly. I’ve seen how dysregulated systems can become when EMDR goes wrong, and I don’t want that for you.
To make sure I gave you the best info, I consulted a colleague who’s both EMDR-certified and experienced in working with DID. She explained that dissociation is covered in EMDR training, and therapists are taught to keep clients inside their Window of Tolerance — what I call your Opportunity Zone.
Here’s what most people don’t know: EMDR has eight phases. The first three are about building safety and resources. But many clients only hear about phase 4 — the memory work with bilateral stimulation. If a therapist rushes you into phase 4 before the groundwork is done, your system is at real risk. My colleague said, “With DID, I may spend months or even years in phases 1–3 before touching phase 4.” If you’re starting memory work just weeks into therapy, that’s a red flag.
One more gap my colleague noticed: EMDR training doesn’t emphasize working with protectors. Without their agreement, therapy can backfire — protectors may get angry and shut everything down.
In part 2, I’ll walk you through concrete steps you can take to protect your system if you’re considering EMDR and I’ll have a free PDF to help you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the 8 phases of EMDR?
EMDR therapy is structured into eight phases: history taking, preparation, assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. For dissociative systems, the first three phases — history, preparation, and assessment — are especially important because they focus on safety, stabilization, and building resources before any memory processing begins.
Why is EMDR riskier for people with DID or OSDD?
People with DID or OSDD often have higher levels of dissociation and more vulnerable parts of self. If EMDR moves too quickly, it can overwhelm the system and trigger intense dysregulation. With proper pacing and a trauma-informed therapist, EMDR can still be safe and helpful, but the risks are higher if those safeguards are ignored.
How do I know if my EMDR therapist is going too fast?
A major red flag is being pushed into memory work (phase 4) within the first few weeks of treatment. If your therapist skips over stabilization or minimizes your dissociation, that’s a sign they may not understand the needs of complex trauma survivors. A safe therapist takes time to build trust and prepares you before any memory reprocessing.
What role do protector parts play in EMDR?
Protector parts often carry the job of keeping the system safe. If they aren’t respected and involved in the therapy process, they may block EMDR or cause sudden shutdowns. A skilled therapist will acknowledge protectors, invite their input, and work with them as allies rather than trying to bypass them.
Can EMDR be helpful if I have a dissociative disorder?
Yes — when it’s done slowly, carefully, and with a therapist trained in both EMDR and dissociation, it can reduce trauma symptoms and support healing. The key is that EMDR should fit your system’s pace, not the other way around. Many survivors find it powerful once safety and cooperation are in place.