EMDR Phase 2: Container
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a powerful and evidence-based approach to trauma healing. As more individuals seek EMDR counseling to address anxiety, PTSD, and other emotional challenges, therapists utilize various tools and resources to ensure clients are fully supported throughout the process. One of the most valuable tools in EMDR treatment is the container resource that we use in treatment.
What Is The Container?
In EMDR therapy, the container resource is a mental imagery exercise designed to help clients safely manage distressing thoughts, emotions, or memories that may surface during sessions or between them. Often introduced in the preparation phase of EMDR treatment, this technique allows individuals to visualize a secure and symbolic space—like a box, chest, or safe—where they can mentally “store” upsetting content that isn’t yet ready to be processed.
This resource is not meant to suppress emotions permanently, but rather to give the client control over when and how to engage with challenging material. In EMDR counseling, having a reliable resource like this is essential for building trust and creating emotional safety.
The Importance Of Developing The Container
One of the core principles of EMDR therapy is helping clients stay within their “window of tolerance.” When memories or emotions become too overwhelming, this is where the container resource becomes especially useful.
Clients often report that using this resource during EMDR counseling sessions helps them regain a sense of grounding. When they know they can temporarily set aside painful material, they feel more confident and willing to engage in the deeper work of EMDR treatment.
The container resource is helpful between sessions. Many individuals undergoing EMDR therapy experience emotional reactivation outside of the therapy room. By practicing the container visualization, clients can manage these emotions effectively, reducing the risk of being overwhelmed in daily life.
How the Container Resource is Used in EMDR Therapy
During EMDR counseling, the therapist guides the client through the development of their personalized container. This process typically involves:
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Imagining a Container: The therapist helps the client choose a mental image of a secure container—something with a lid or lock that ensures nothing will spill out unless they choose to open it.
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Enhancing the Image: Through guided visualization, clients are encouraged to engage their senses. What does the container look like? How does it feel to place something inside? Where is it kept?
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Practicing Use: Clients are invited to “use” the container during sessions and at home. For example, if a disturbing image arises during EMDR treatment, the client can visualize placing it in the container and returning to it later.
Therapists often reinforce this practice by pairing it with bilateral stimulation—such as tapping or eye movements—which is central to EMDR therapy. This helps further integrate the resource and make it more accessible when needed.
EMDR Counseling & Long-Term Resilience
The container resource is more than just a temporary coping tool—it promotes long-term emotional regulation. Over time, many clients report they need to use the container less frequently as their symptoms decrease and trauma is resolved through EMDR therapy.
At its core, EMDR counseling is about empowering individuals to confront and heal from painful experiences at their own pace. The container resource supports this goal by making the therapeutic process more manageable and compassionate.
Let’s Get Started
Whether you’re just beginning EMDR counseling or are ready to get started in EMDR treatment, the container resource is a critical technique that enhances safety and emotional stability. By visualizing a safe place to store difficult material, clients can feel more confident and in control during their healing journey.
If you’re exploring EMDR therapy for trauma, anxiety, or other challenges, working with a trained EMDR counselor at Niyama Center who incorporates tools like the container resource can make all the difference. Reach out today to begin your path toward healing through EMDR counseling.
First step is scheduling an intake appointment by calling 248-962-3329