Not Ready for EMDR? How DBT Helps Build Safety and Readiness
Wanting Trauma Healing but Not Feeling Ready
Many people are drawn to EMDR because they want relief from the effects of trauma, yet feel unsure about starting trauma processing right away. This hesitation is common — and valid. Trauma therapy works best when your nervous system has enough stability and support to tolerate deeper work.
Being “not ready” does not mean therapy won’t help. In fact, building readiness is often an important and necessary part of trauma recovery.
Why Readiness Matters in EMDR
EMDR is a powerful trauma-processing approach, but it requires the ability to stay present, regulate emotions, and return to a sense of safety during and after sessions. If coping resources are limited, trauma processing can feel overwhelming rather than healing.
This is where Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) can play a supportive role.
How DBT Supports Trauma Stabilization
DBT is a skills-based therapy that helps clients build emotional and nervous system regulation. For individuals interested in EMDR, DBT can provide a strong foundation by teaching skills such as:
Emotional regulation
Distress tolerance
Grounding and self-soothing
Interpersonal effectiveness
Mindfulness and present-moment awareness
These skills help clients feel more in control of emotional responses and less afraid of intense feelings.
DBT as a Bridge, Not a Detour
Using DBT before EMDR is not a step backward — it’s often a strategic and compassionate choice. DBT helps reduce crisis behaviors, increase emotional safety, and strengthen trust in one’s ability to cope.
As clients gain confidence in their skills, trauma processing often feels less intimidating and more manageable.
Integrating DBT With Trauma Therapy
DBT can be used on its own or integrated alongside trauma-informed approaches like IFS and EMDR. This flexible approach allows therapy to adapt to your readiness rather than forcing a timeline.
Therapy progresses when your system feels safe enough — not when it’s rushed.
DBT and Trauma Therapy at Southview Counseling
At Southview Counseling, DBT is used thoughtfully as part of a trauma-informed treatment plan. If you’re interested in EMDR but not ready yet, therapy can focus on building skills, stability, and internal safety first.
Healing does not require pushing past your limits. With the right support, readiness develops naturally over time.