EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy is a scientifically supported approach for treating Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and various psychiatric disorders. Grounded in the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, EMDR focuses on the reprocessing and integration of traumatic experiences to promote adaptive healing and symptom relief.
Understanding the Mechanism of EMDR Therapy
EMDR employs specific treatment procedures to facilitate the reprocessing of distressing memories and associated stimuli. By optimizing client stabilization before, during, and after memory processing, EMDR leverages the client’s innate healing abilities. The therapy minimizes therapist intervention during memory reprocessing, allowing the brain’s information processing system to make necessary connections.
The Eight Phases of EMDR Therapy
EMDR therapy consists of eight distinct phases:
History Taking: Identifying presenting problems, significant life events, and setting future goals.
Preparation: Equipping the client with self-control techniques and fostering a sense of control during memory processing.
Assessment: Identifying the target memory and its components, including the image, associated thoughts, emotions, and physical sensations.
Desensitization: Engaging in sets of eye movements, taps, or tones while attending to the identified memory components, facilitating transformation and resolution.
Installation: Concentrating on desired positive beliefs to strengthen them and make them fully true to the client.
Body Scan: Assessing if any residual disturbance remains in the body and processing it until empowerment is achieved.
Closure: Ensuring the client returns to a state of equilibrium, reinforcing self-control techniques, and providing tools for in-between-session processing.
Reevaluation: Reviewing the memory’s impact and addressing any remaining concerns at the next session.
EMDR for Children and Adolescents
EMDR therapy is recognized by the World Health Organization (2013) and the International Society for Traumatic Stress Studies (ISTSS, 2018) as an effective treatment for children and adolescents who have experienced trauma and PTSD. It offers support for psychological difficulties beyond PTSD, including anxiety and depression.