EMDR is a psychotherapy method initially developed to reduce the distress linked to traumatic memories (Shapiro, 1989a, 1989b). Shapiro’s Adaptive Information Processing model (2001) suggests that EMDR therapy helps in accessing and processing traumatic memories and other negative life experiences, leading to an adaptive resolution. After effective EMDR treatment, emotional distress is alleviated, negative beliefs are restructured, and physiological arousal is diminished. During EMDR therapy, clients briefly focus on emotionally disturbing material while simultaneously concentrating on an external stimulus. The most common stimulus is therapist-guided lateral eye movements, although other stimuli such as hand-tapping and audio stimulation are also used (Shapiro, 1991). Shapiro (1995, 2001) theorizes that EMDR therapy enhances information processing by facilitating access to the traumatic memory network, creating new associations between the traumatic memory and more adaptive information.
Treatment Overview
EMDR therapy integrates various components to optimize treatment outcomes. For a comprehensive explanation of the theory, treatment sequence, and research on protocols and active mechanisms, refer to F. Shapiro’s (2001) “Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures” (2nd edition), New York: Guilford Press.
EMDR therapy addresses three time periods: past, present, and future. It focuses on past disturbing memories and related events, current distressing situations, and the development of skills and attitudes for positive future actions. This is achieved through an eight-phase treatment approach.
Phase 1: History Taking
The therapist evaluates the client’s readiness and formulates a treatment plan during the history-taking sessions. Together, they identify potential targets for EMDR processing, which may include distressing memories, current situations causing emotional distress, and related past incidents. Emphasis is placed on developing specific skills and behaviors needed for future situations.
Phase 2: Preparation
In this phase, the therapist ensures the client has multiple strategies for managing emotional distress. The therapist may teach various imagery and stress reduction techniques for use during and between sessions. The goal is to facilitate rapid and effective change while maintaining client stability.
Phase 3-6: Assessment and Desensitization
- A vivid visual image related to the memory
- A negative belief about themselves
- Associated emotions and physical sensations
Phase 7: Closure
The therapist asks the client to keep a log during the week to document any related material that may surface. This log also serves as a reminder of the self-calming techniques learned in phase two.
Phase 8: Reevaluation
The final phase begins the next session, reviewing the progress made so far. EMDR therapy processes all related historical events, current distressing incidents, and future situations that require different responses.
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