Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

The process of EMDR involves eight phases

1. History and Treatment Planning: The therapist gathers the client's history and develops a treatment plan.
2. Preparation: The therapist explains the treatment, introduces the client to the EMDR process, and teaches relaxation techniques.
3. Assessment: The client identifies a specific disturbing memory and associated negative beliefs.
4. Desensitization: The client focuses on the memory while engaging in guided eye movements. This process helps to reprocess the memory, reducing its emotional charge.
5. Installation: The therapist helps the client replace negative beliefs with positive ones.
6. Body Scan: In the Body Scan phase, the client focuses on any residual physical tension or discomfort associated with the memory, ensuring that all elements of the trauma have been addressed.
7. Closure: At the end of each session, the therapist helps the client return to a state of equilibrium, using relaxation techniques if necessary. The client may be asked to keep a log of any related thoughts or feelings that arise.
8. Reevaluation: At the beginning of subsequent sessions, the therapist and client review progress, assess the current level of distress, and identify any new targets for reprocessing.