What is EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing)?
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) was developed by Francine Shapiro in 1987. EMDR is a psychotherapy treatment that was originally designed to alleviate the distress associated with traumatic memories.
Phase 1 - History and Treatment Planning
The client’s history and an overall treatment plan are discussed. During this process the therapist identifies and clarifies potential targets for EMDR. A target may be a disturbing issue, event, feeling or memory for use as an initial focus for EMDR. Negative cognitions may also be identified, such as “I can’t trust people” or “I can’t protect myself.”
Phase 2 - Preparation
The therapist will explain EMDR, how it is done, and what the client can expect during and after treatment. The therapist will also teach the client specific adaptive coping skills in order for the client to utilize it they are experiencing distress that may arise during or after a session. The client will practice how to utilize these techniques, such as using a calm place exercise, outside of the therapy sessions in order to prepare for the next phase.
Phase 3 - Assessment
The therapist and client will identify traumatic memories that the client would like to address. The client will then choose an image to represent each memory, noting the negative cognitives (NC) and physical sensations that are associated with these memories. The negative cognition (NC) is a statement about the self that feels true when the client focuses on the target image. A positive cognition (PC) is also identified.
Phase 4 - Desensitization
The client will engage in bi-lateral stimulations, such as eye movements or tapping, while focusing on their target image, negative cognition, and physical sensations in order to reduce their distress. The distress will be measured by using the SUD-scale (Subjective Units of Disturbance Scale) that ranges from 0-10. The desensitization phase ends when the SUDS has reached 0 or 1.
Phase 5 - Installation
The client will engage in bi-lateral stimulations in order to install the positive cognition that was identified in Phase 3. The validity will be measured by using the VoC-scale (Validity of Cognition Scale) that ranges from 1-7.
Phase 6 - Body Scan
The client will scan their body from head to toe in order to notice physical sensations, such as tightness in their chest. If the client has physical sensations, the client will engage in bi-lateral stimulations.
Phase 7 - Closure
The therapist will remind the client to utilize their adaptive coping skills if they are experiencing distress after the session. The therapist will also ask the client to be aware of their experiences that occur after the therapy session so it can be discussed at the next therapy session.
Phase 8 - Reevaluation
The client will engage in a conversation about the last therapy session, distress that occurred after the therapy session, and engagement with their adaptive coping skills. The therapist will assess the client’s target image, negative cognition, and positive cognition.
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