EMDR (Eye-Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is an effective treatment technique aimed at reprocessing traumatic memory. As EMDR trained clinicians, we are able to offer EMDR as a stand-alone intervention and/or integrate it with additional therapeutic models, if appropriate. It can occur in-person or virtually.
EMDR consists of eight phases
- history taking and treatment planning
- preparation
- assessment
- desensitization
- installation
- body scan
- closure
- reevaluation
During phase four reprocessing traumatic memories are targeted through bilateral stimulation (activating both right and left sides of the brain while maintaining contact with the present moment).
Please review EMDR readiness guidelines. This criteria would need to be met by the fourth phase of EMDR.
Readiness for phase four EMDR reprocessing
Readiness for phase four EMDR reprocessing
- The therapeutic alliance is strong
- Medical conditions, if any, have been cleared by a medical provider
- Ability to commit to consistent sessions
- Scoring below a 30 on the Dissociative Experiences Scale II when screened for Dissociative Disorders
- Demonstrated ability to utilize the calm place exercise without recurring, intrusive negativity
- The ability, with intention, to switch from disturbance to calm both in and out of session
- The capacity to tolerate focus on the traumatic material while staying oriented to the present
- Adequate stability of home, family and work life
- Not currently suicidal/homicidal
- Not currently engaged in self-harming
- When determined necessary- effective coping strategies to abstain from an identified behavior such as active disordered eating or active addiction