Assessment, Cognitions, Sensations, and Meaning in EMDR Therapy
Feb 14, 2024
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In this podcast, the hosts discuss various interesting topics related to EMDR therapy, including the importance of assessment and case conceptualization, uncovering meaningful parts of traumatic experiences, focusing on the client's experience rather than sticking to the protocol, and exploring emotions in therapy. They also introduce the 'Beyond Group' drop-in program for EMDR therapy, where listeners can join discussion presentations and access advanced learning materials.
01:18:56
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Quick takeaways
The selection of an image or representation for desensitization in EMDR therapy should include sensory experiences beyond visual imagery.
Assessing the validity and emotional resonance of positive cognitions is crucial in trauma therapy and can foster healing and transformation.
Exploring and expanding a client's emotional vocabulary is essential to accurately identify and articulate their emotions during the assessment phase of EMDR therapy.
Deep dives
Selecting the Image and Exploring the Worst Part
In this podcast episode, the hosts discuss the process of selecting an image or representation of the worst part of a traumatic memory. They highlight the importance of not limiting the selection to just visual imagery, but also considering sounds or other sensory experiences that capture the essence of the memory. The hosts also emphasize the significance of exploring what stands out to the client as the most meaningful part of the experience, as it can offer deeper insights into the underlying emotional and psychological impact. They encourage therapists to be creative and adaptable in their approach to ensure the chosen image or representation effectively activates the memory and sets the stage for desensitization and reprocessing.
Validating and Assessing Positive Cognitions
Another key aspect of the assessment process discussed in this podcast episode is the evaluation of positive cognitions. The hosts acknowledge that clients may initially find it challenging to embrace positive beliefs about themselves due to their trauma. They stress the importance of assessing the validity of positive cognitions and gauging how true those beliefs feel to the client on a scale of one to seven. They urge therapists to stay curious and attuned to the client's responses, looking for underlying reasons and patterns that may shape their perception of these positive beliefs. The hosts also emphasize the significance of incorporating positive cognitions during the therapy process to foster healing and transformation.
Exploring Emotions and Unfolding the Assessment
The podcast episode further delves into the exploration of emotions during the assessment phase. The hosts highlight the importance of helping clients identify and articulate their emotions related to a traumatic memory. They acknowledge that clients may struggle with accurately labeling their emotions and may need guidance in distinguishing between different shades of emotion. The hosts encourage therapists to listen attentively and help clients expand their emotional vocabulary to fully express their feelings. They emphasize the significance of being patient and allowing the assessment to unfold, facilitating an understanding of the client's unique physiology and emotional landscape.
The Importance of Negative Cognition in Assessments
During the assessment phase, negative cognition plays a crucial role in understanding the client's experience. Negative cognitions are not limited to pre-determined phrases, but can be co-created or symbolized. The goal is to uncover the negative emotional learning and the meaning the client has made of the experience. This helps access non-verbal memories and deepens understanding. The clinician should also explore the positive cognition, which might not be an exact inversion but should be aligned with the emotional learning.
Addressing Distress and Body Sensation in the Assessment
The assessment phase also involves evaluating the distress associated with the target memory and identifying body sensations. The distress scale (SUD) may feel cognitive and disrupt the activation process. However, the focus should be on the qualitative assessment of distress and the client's sensation experience. The goal is to activate the client's system and establish momentum towards desensitization. The clinician should create a safe space for clients to explore and express their sensations without relying solely on numerical scales.
Listen in as Jen and Bridger pick back up in the Back to Basics season with chapter five of Francine Shapiro's Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy (3rd ed.).
Did you know? After full completion of Beyond Healing Institute’s Somatic Integration and Processing training, each participant can receive 21 NBCC hours.