AN INTRODUCTION TO
EMDR THERAPY
Phase 1
History Taking & Treatment Planning
Phase 2
Preparation
Therapist and client take some time to build trust and get to know one another. This phase includes talking about family history, past and current symptoms, and attempted solutions.
EMDR activates past trauma in a controlled and safe environment to reprocess traumatic memories or narratives in a new light. This phase involves the teaching and practice of techniques that help the client stay calm and grounded during activation, preparing the client for the next phases.
Phase 3
Assessment
Phase 3 involves mapping out both the negative and positive neural networks and associated core beliefs. Therapist and client work together as architects to construct a more beneficial belief system.
Phase 4
Desensitization
A form of bilateral stimulation will be utilized to help reduce the levels of traumatic response associated with the selected traumatic material.
Phase 5
Installation
A form of bilateral stimulation will again be used - this time, to install the more beneficial belief system into the core of the client's internal cognitive-emotional narrative. The therapist guides clients towards integration.
Phase 6
Body Scan
Peer-reviewed research indicates that the traumatic memory or narrative is stored in the body. It’s important to process the body’s response to desensitization and installation during this phase.
Phase 7
Closure
A de-escalation and debrief period is important to ensure re-grounding. Practices developed in Phase 2 will re-emerge here. Some additional relaxation methods may be used.
Phase 8
Re-Evaluation
After a period of 6-12 weeks, therapist and client will work together to determine if more EMDR is necessary. The client may feel an increased sense of confidence, joy, calm, and serenity.