Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Is a psychotherapy approach that was developed by Francine Shapiro in the late 1980s. It is primarily used to help individuals process distressing memories and experiences, especially those associated with trauma. EMDR is recognised as an effective treatment for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and has been used to address a range of psychological issues.

The key components of EMDR include

Bilateral Stimulation

The hallmark of EMDR is the use of bilateral stimulation, which involves the rhythmic left-right (or right-left) stimulation of the brain. This can be achieved through guided eye movements, tapping, or auditory tones.

Bilateral stimulation is believed to mimic the natural processing that occurs during REM (rapid eye movement) sleep, a phase of sleep associated with memory consolidation.

Phases of EMDR

History-taking and Treatment Planning. The therapist gathers information about the client's history and identifies target memories or experiences to be processed.

Preparation. The therapist works with the client to develop coping strategies and ensure they feel emotionally stable before engaging in EMDR.

Assessment. The target memory is identified, and the associated negative beliefs, emotions, and physical sensations are pinpointed.

Desensitization. Bilateral stimulation is used while the client focuses on the target memory, allowing for the processing and desensitization of the distressing elements.

Installation. Positive beliefs and self-statements are reinforced to replace negative ones associated with the trauma.

Body Scan. The therapist and client check for any residual physical tension or distress.

Closure. The session is closed with the client returning to a state of equilibrium.

Re-evaluation. Subsequent sessions may involve reassessing the target memory and addressing any remaining distress.

Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) Model

EMDR is based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which suggests that distressing memories are not adequately processed and can become "stuck" in the nervous system, contributing to psychological symptoms.

Bilateral stimulation is thought to facilitate the reprocessing of these memories, allowing for the integration of the traumatic experience into the individual's overall cognitive and emotional framework.

Effectiveness

EMDR has been extensively researched and is considered effective in reducing symptoms associated with PTSD and trauma-related disorders.

Its success is attributed to the combination of bilateral stimulation and cognitive-behavioral techniques.