Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a psychotherapy approach developed to address trauma and distressing memories. During phases three through six of EMDR treatment, a specific target memory is identified and processed using particular procedures. This process is structured to help clients re-evaluate their negative beliefs and reduce the emotional impact of these memories.
In these phases, the client works to pinpoint key elements of the targeted memory. This involves recognizing:
- The vivid visual image that encapsulates the memory.
- A negative self-belief associated with the memory.
- The emotions and physical sensations that arise when recalling the memory.
Alongside identifying these negative aspects, the client also formulates a positive belief they would prefer to hold about themselves in relation to the memory. The therapist then guides the client in assessing the strength of both the positive belief and the intensity of the negative emotions.
The core of EMDR processing then begins. The client is instructed to concentrate on the identified image, negative thought, and body sensations while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation. This stimulation can take various forms, including guided eye movements, tactile taps, or auditory tones. The specific type and duration of these sets of stimulation are tailored to each individual. At this stage, the client is encouraged to simply observe any spontaneous thoughts, feelings, images, memories, or sensations that arise without judgment or direction.
Following each set of bilateral stimulation, the therapist prompts the client to clear their mind and notice whatever comes up. Based on the client’s report, the therapist guides the next focus of attention. These repeated sets of focused attention and stimulation are conducted multiple times throughout a therapy session. If the client experiences distress or encounters obstacles in their progress, the therapist employs established protocols to support the client in regaining stability and continuing the process.
The goal of EMDR processing is reached when the client reports feeling no distress associated with the targeted memory. At this point, the client is guided to bring to mind the positive belief identified at the session’s outset. They may refine this positive belief if needed and then concentrate on it during subsequent processing sets. This integration of a positive self-view is a crucial step in EMDR therapy, aiming to replace negative self-perceptions with more adaptive and empowering beliefs.
