Every hobby farmer has their go-to tools—a trusty shovel, a well-used feed scoop, a weatherproof barn. In EMDR therapy, resourcing tools are just as practical and essential. These mental and emotional strategies allow clients to self-soothe, stabilize, and stay in control during the therapy process.
The Container Exercise – Your Lockable Feed Bin
This technique involves mentally placing distressing thoughts into a secure "container"—a metaphorical lockbox that you can return to later. Just like how you safely store livestock feed or fencing wire to prevent accidents, the container helps you temporarily set aside intrusive thoughts.
➡️ Learn more: Trauma Recovery/HAP
Peaceful Place Visualization – Your Favorite Spot Under the Oak Tree
Clients are guided to imagine a calming scene—maybe a sun-drenched pasture or a quiet forest edge. This is your resting pasture, a visual and emotional sanctuary that helps lower your heart rate and reduce stress.
➡️ Supported by research: Guided Imagery Effectiveness - NIH
Safe Person Imagery – Your Farmhand Friend or Helpful Neighbor
This tool invites you to visualize someone who provides safety and comfort, even if they’re fictional. Like the neighbor who shows up with extra hay during a storm, this figure offers reliable emotional support.
➡️ Explore emotional safety: Psychology Today - Support Systems
Mastery Imagery – Remembering When You Fixed the Tractor or Delivered a Foal
Clients reflect on moments of personal success, strength, or resilience. This tool builds self-efficacy, reminding you of your inner capabilities.
➡️ Learn about mastery: Verywell Mind - Mastery Experience
Why More Than One Tool Matters
Different seasons call for different tools. When treating trauma, a single technique might not work every time. According to the APA, flexible coping strategies are strongly linked to long-term emotional resilience.
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