EMDR

Trauma Processing

Ripples Allied Health Consultancy

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy at our practice.

As advocates for comprehensive mental health care, we understand the significance of offering accessible information on EMDR therapy—a key intervention we offer for complex presentations.

Introduction to EMDR at Ripples

Trauma Memories

When we undergo traumatic experiences, our brain may process those memories differently to shield us from the overwhelming emotional and psychological impact of the trauma. This can involve changes in how the memory is encoded, stored, and retrieved within the brain.

Fragmented Memories

One key aspect of this different processing is the fragmentation of traumatic memories. Instead of integrating smoothly into our memory network, they may become disjointed, stored in isolated pockets of the brain.

Encoded Vividly

Additionally, traumatic memories may be encoded in a more sensory and emotional way compared to non-traumatic memories, leading to vivid and intense recollections of sights, sounds, smells, and emotions associated with the trauma, which can feel overwhelming when recalled.

Activated Body Response

During traumatic experiences, the body releases stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. These hormones can enhance the encoding of sensory details associated with the trauma while impairing higher cognitive functions like reasoning and logical thinking.

Short-Term Shield

Overall, the brain's protective mechanisms during trauma aim to shield us from its full impact in the short term. However, these responses can sometimes contribute to long-term psychological difficulties like PTSD by maintaining distress associated with traumatic memories.

EMDR Application

EMDR therapy addresses maladaptive memory processes by reprocessing and integrating traumatic memories in a safe environment. This helps reduce emotional intensity and distress, leading to healing.

The 8 Stages of EMDR

The 8 stages of Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy

8 Stags of EMDR

1. History Taking and Treatment Planning

The therapist gathers information about you child's history, symptoms, and treatment goals. Some of this may have been conducted within the parent session. This stage involves building rapport and establishing a therapeutic alliance.

2. Preparation

The therapist spends time explaining to the child how EMDR therapy works and what to expect during sessions. This phase also involves resource installation, a technique aimed at enhancing feelings of safety, resilience, and self-soothing.

3. Assessment (Mapping)

Specific memories or experiences that are causing distress for the child are identified. This may involve exploring past traumas, triggers, associated emotions and beliefs, as well as the positive beliefs needed for the installation stage.

4. Desensitisation

Your child focuses on the targeted memory while engaging in bilateral stimulations. Resources already practice may be used within the desensitisation phase. This phase helps the child process the memory and reduce emotional distress associated with it.

During an EMDR session, the therapist guides the individual to recall a distressing memory while simultaneously focusing on bilateral stimulation (BLS) employed by the therapist. This involves stimulating both sides of the brain through rhythmic movements, such as tapping, auditory cues, or side-to-side eye movements. This dual attention helps engage the individual's working memory, which is like the brain's mental workspace. By activating working memory while recalling the memory, it allows the brain to process and reorganise the memory in a less distressing manner. The BLS further stimulates the brain's processing capabilities, facilitating the integration of the distressing memory with more adaptive information and emotions. Over time, this process can lead to a reduction in the emotional intensity and distress associated with the memory.

5. Installation

Positive beliefs and emotions are strengthened to replace negative ones associated with the traumatic memory. The therapist guides your child to identify and internalise adaptive coping strategies and self-soothing techniques.

6. Body Scan

Your child is asked to check in with their body to identify any remaining tension or discomfort related to the targeted memory. This stage helps ensure that the memory has been fully processed and integrated.

7. Closure

The session is concluded in a structured manner, ensuring your child feels grounded and stable before leaving the therapeutic environment. The therapist may provide relaxation techniques or coping strategies for the child to use between sessions.

8. Reevaluation

In subsequent sessions, the therapist assesses your child's progress and adjusts the treatment plan as needed. This stage allows for ongoing monitoring of symptoms and ensures that your child continues to make positive strides in their healing journey.

EMDR Websites

If you are interested in reading more about it, these websites can provide more Information:

EMDRIA (EMDR International Association): The official website of EMDRIA provides comprehensive information about EMDR therapy, including training, research, and resources for clinicians and the general public. Visit EMDRIA
EMDR Institute: Founded by Dr. Francine Shapiro, the EMDR Institute offers information about EMDR therapy, training programs, and workshops for clinicians. The website also features FAQs and client resources. Visit EMDR Institute
EMDR Humanitarian Assistance Programs (HAP): HAP offers EMDR therapy training and humanitarian aid to underserved populations affected by trauma and disaster worldwide. Their website provides information about training, research, and volunteering opportunities. Visit EMDR HAP
American Psychological Association (APA): The APA provides an overview of EMDR therapy, including its efficacy, applications, and considerations for clients and clinicians. Visit APA
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH): NIMH offers information about EMDR therapy, its effectiveness, and its role in treating PTSD and other mental health conditions. Visit NIMH
Child Mind Institute: The Child Mind Institute provides resources and articles about EMDR therapy for children and adolescents, including its benefits, considerations, and how it can be integrated into treatment. Visit Child Mind Institute

Summary & Further Information

Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an evidence-based approach used to help individuals process distressing memories and experiences. It involves eight stages, including history-taking, preparation, assessment, desensitisation, installation, body scan, closure, and reevaluation. EMDR utilises bilateral stimulation, such as eye movements, to facilitate the reprocessing of traumatic memories, leading to decreased emotional distress and symptom relief.