EMDR · Preparation
Calm / Safe Place
Anchor a felt-sense resource with a cue word
A felt-sense resource the client can return to between sessions. Build the image with sensory detail, install with slow short sets, and anchor with a cue word.
1
The place
Real or imagined. Somewhere the client feels peaceful and safe.
Where are you?
2
Sensory anchors
Stay in present tense. 'I see…', 'I hear…'.
See
Hear
Smell / taste
Body sensation
3
Cue word
One word that brings the whole image back.
Cue word
4
Install
4–6 slow short sets of BLS while client focuses on the image + cue word. Stop if anything negative emerges.
Notes after installation
For EMDR clinicians
If you run Calm Place often, you'll love EMDR Assist — a dedicated workspace for the full 8-phase protocol, BLS, and target tracking.