What does “resourcing” mean in EMDR therapy? A forest journey metaphor
Resourcing is much like packing for a hike—you want to make sure you have everything you need to make the journey as safe and successful as possible.
Embarking on a journey through the dense forest of our minds can be both daunting and transformative. Each of us carries memories and emotions that can feel like tangled vines and shadowy paths, and we may feel unsure how to approach these experiences. This is where the resource development and installation phase of EMDR therapy comes in. I call it resourcing for short, and its purpose is to bring a sense of preparation and structure to our journey.
Preparing for the Journey
Before setting off into this vast forest, we need to prepare. Imagine standing at the edge, looking at the towering trees and the winding trails ahead. You know you need to gather your supplies to ensure a successful journey. The resourcing phase is all about identifying and gathering those supplies.
In this phase, you pack your metaphorical backpack with essential items: a good map (or access to Google maps) to navigate your emotions, a reliable compass representing your coping strategies, and a flashlight to illuminate the darker parts of your memories, once you feel ready. You might also include snacks—your positive memories and strengths that provide comfort and energy when the path gets tough.
Testing Your Gear
Once your backpack is filled, it’s time to test your gear. Just as a hiker would practice using their compass or turn on their flashlight to see how bright it shines, you engage in the installation phase. This is about familiarizing yourself with the resources you’ve gathered. You practice grounding techniques, access a sense of safety in your own mind and body, and reinforce positive beliefs about yourself.
By doing this, you build confidence in your ability to navigate the forest. You know that when you encounter dense underbrush—those difficult memories—you’ll have the tools and skills to face them with resilience.
Setting Off into the Wilderness
With your backpack ready and your gear tested, you step into the forest. The journey may be challenging, with unexpected turns and hidden roots, but each step forward is a testament to your preparation. The map guides you, the compass keeps you oriented, and when darkness falls, your flashlight shines a path through the shadows.
As you journey through the forest, you begin to notice the beauty around you—the sunlight filtering through the leaves, the sounds of birds singing, and the fresh air invigorating your spirit. Each positive memory and coping strategy becomes a beacon, illuminating your path and reminding you of your strength.
Finding Your Way
Throughout this journey, you’ll encounter areas that feel uncomfortable, but with each challenge, you draw upon your resources. You pause, take a breath, and remember the snacks you packed—those moments of joy and strength that fuel your journey. You realize that navigating this forest is about more than just survival; it’s about growth and discovery.
The Journey Continues
As you continue through the forest of your mind, you may find that the journey is just as important as the destination. EMDR therapy helps you not only to reprocess difficult memories but also to embrace the strength and resilience within you.
So, as you prepare for your own journey, remember that with the right tools and mindset, you can navigate even the densest forests and emerge on the other side. You may surprise yourself with what you’re able to feel, believe, and accomplish.
