EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a psychotherapy approach based on the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model. Case formulation, therapy goals and the treatment plan can be structured through this model.
EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a structured psychotherapy approach that aims to reprocess memories, emotions, thoughts and bodily responses associated with distressing life experiences.
Bilateral stimulation in EMDR — for example eye movements or other left-right stimulation — is one component used during processing. However, EMDR is not simply eye movements or a single technique; it is a comprehensive therapy model that includes history taking, assessment, case formulation, preparation, processing and re-evaluation.
EMDR is not a brief intervention that addresses only one specific memory. From beginning to end, therapy can make sense of a person’s life history, current difficulties and adaptive responses needed for the future within the same framework.
According to the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model underlying EMDR, when some distressing experiences are not adequately processed, images, emotions, bodily sensations and negative beliefs about oneself connected to those experiences may continue to exert an interconnected influence. When a present situation activates these networks, a person may feel as if they are re-experiencing the emotional and bodily responses of the past.
For this reason, therapy does not focus only on reducing the current symptom. Related past experiences, present triggers and more adaptive responses needed in similar future situations are considered together. Case formulation and the therapy plan can be developed within this framework from the first sessions onward.
EMDR has an eight-phase protocol; however, rather than following a mechanical sequence, therapy is planned individually according to the case formulation.
You can contact me for more information about the therapy process and how EMDR work is structured.
