Clinical reference only. This content is intended for trained clinicians and does not replace formal EMDR training or supervision. See our family guide.
Phase 7: Closure
Ending Sessions Safely
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Client: ________________
Complete Session Closure
Use when SUD=0, VOC=7, and Body Scan is clear:
"You did great work today. The memory we processed is now fully integrated with a positive belief, and your body feels clear. This is excellent progress.
Between now and our next session, you may notice thoughts, feelings, dreams, or memories related to what we worked on. These experiences can occur, but they do not by themselves prove that treatment is helping. Let me know if they become distressing, persistent, or disrupt sleep or daily life.
If anything comes up, try to just notice it without judgment. You can use your safe place or container if needed. I'd encourage you to jot down any significant observations so we can discuss them next time."
Incomplete Session Closure
Use when processing is not complete (SUD > 0, stuck, or ran out of time):
"We've done important work today, even though we haven't finished processing this particular memory. That's okay - processing takes as long as it needs to take.
The work we did today is still valuable, and your brain will continue processing between sessions. However, since we didn't fully complete, you might notice more disturbance than usual between sessions.
Let's use your containment skills now to put away what we were working on until next time."
Containment Script
"Bring up your container - that strong, secure place where you can store difficult material until we meet again.
Now, imagine taking everything we worked on today - the memory, any leftover feelings, any body sensations - and placing them into your container. Watch them go in...
Now close your container securely. Lock it tight. Imagine leaving it there for now. If something comes back up, use the support plan we agreed on. We can return to it together when you are ready.
Take a breath. How do you feel?"
Grounding Check
"Before you leave, let's make sure you're fully present. Look around the room and tell me 5 things you can see... 4 things you can touch... 3 things you can hear..."
Check: Is client oriented? Making eye contact? Speaking at normal pace?
Session Status
Containment used? Resources accessed?
Phase 7: Closure
Between-Session Guidance & Education
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Client: ________________
Between-Session Processing
"Your brain doesn't stop processing when you leave this room. Between sessions, you might experience:
- Vivid dreams or nightmares
- Memories popping up unexpectedly
- Strong emotions
- Physical sensations
- New insights or connections
These experiences can occur after a session, but they are not by themselves evidence of healing. Notice what happens without pressure to interpret it. Use a coping strategy that feels helpful and contact your clinician if symptoms worsen, persist, or interfere with sleep or daily life."
Coping Strategies Reminder
Safe Place
Use your cue word to access calm
Container
Store distressing material until session
Breathing
4-7-8 or box breathing
Grounding
5-4-3-2-1 sensory exercise
Child-Friendly Closure
"You did such awesome work today! Your brain worked really hard. Now we're going to pack up and make sure you feel good before you go.
Let's put anything leftover in your magic container... close it up tight... and now let's go to your safe place for a minute to feel calm and happy.
Before you leave, tell me 3 things you're looking forward to this week!"
- End on a positive note - discuss fun plans, achievements
- Remind caregiver about possible between-session effects
- Provide simple coping cards for home use
Session Documentation
Client state at end of session:
Resources used for closure:
Plan for next session:
Additional Notes:
Before Client Leaves
Disclaimer: This material is compiled from published clinical protocols and peer-reviewed sources. It is intended as a reference for trained clinicians only and does not replace formal EMDR training, supervision, or clinical judgment. Not for distribution to clients. Sources: Shapiro (2018), EMDRIA Guidelines, WHO (2013), APA (2017).