What is EMDR?: From the EMDR Supplement

EMDR as a Comprehensive Therapeutic Approach

EMDR is not just a specific intervention, but a full therapeutic approach that includes the use of bilateral stimulation as the intervention. It is built on the theory of AIP (Adaptive Information Processing) and incorporates other evidence-based theories such as attachment and neurodevelopment, as well as somatic psychology. The AIP model suggests that most symptoms result from unprocessed experiences or memories, which trigger patterns of affect, behavior, cognition, and identity throughout one's lifetime. The approach acknowledges the interplay between mind and body and emphasizes the importance of an attuned therapeutic relationship.

Defining Trauma and Symptoms

Trauma is not limited to easily identifiable events but encompasses anything that is overwhelming, whether it's too much, too soon, too much for too long, or too little for too long. Trauma is linked to the absence of a safe and connected relationship. Traumatic impact on the nervous system gives rise to symptoms, which are adaptations developed to survive traumatic experiences. Symptoms are evidence of a traumatic impact, and the nervous system's response to trauma can occur during prenatal development, early life, and even extend through intergenerational transmission. Understanding trauma as a wound and exploring traumas of omission and commission can help clients recognize their experiences and promote healing.

The Three-Pronged Protocol

EMDR therapy incorporates a three-pronged protocol for a comprehensive trauma treatment. This protocol involves addressing past experiences, the present presentation of symptoms, and the future anticipation of events. By considering the past, present, and future, EMDR therapy aims to holistically clear out memory networks and create systemic change. This approach is aligned with how the human brain functions, as it constantly references past experiences to make sense of the present and anticipate the future. Although the protocol generally follows a chronological order, modifications can be made to address urgent present circumstances or future templates, with the ultimate goal of resolving past traumas, stabilizing the present, and creating a positive outlook for the future.

State Change vs Trait Change

EMDR therapy acknowledges the importance of both state change and trait change. State change refers to a shift in the activation level experienced in the present moment, whereas trait change involves broader changes in personality traits and ways of being that result from reprocessing memories. State change techniques focus on immediate regulation and include activities like breathing techniques and creating a calm safe place. Trait change, on the other hand, occurs through ongoing reprocessing and the integration of resources, such as nurturing figures, which can elicit deeper and more long-lasting changes in self-perception, confidence, and relationship patterns. Both state change and trait change are crucial components of EMDR therapy's transformative process.

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What is EMDR?: From the EMDR Supplement

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Quick takeaways

Deep dives

EMDR as a Comprehensive Therapeutic Approach

Defining Trauma and Symptoms

The Three-Pronged Protocol

State Change vs Trait Change

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