8 Phases of EMDR Standardized Protocol
EMDR uses a standardized protocol that includes eight phases to help individuals process and reprocess the traumatic experiences and develop adaptive beliefs and emotions.
Phase 1: History and Treatment Planning
The first phase of EMDR involves an assessment of the individual’s history and current symptoms. The therapist gathers information about the individual’s traumatic experiences and identifies the target memories to be processed. The therapist also assesses the individual’s current level of distress and identifies any potential barriers to treatment. Based on the assessment, the therapist develops a treatment plan that outlines the specific targets and the techniques to be used in each phase.
Phase 2: Preparation
The second phase of EMDR involves preparing the individual for the processing of traumatic memories. The therapist helps the individual develop coping strategies to manage emotional and physical distress that may arise during the therapy. The therapist also explains the rationale and procedures of EMDR and establishes a therapeutic alliance with the individual to build trust and rapport.
Phase 3: Assessment
The third phase of EMDR involves assessing the individual’s level of distress and identifying the specific aspects of the target memory that need to be processed. The therapist asks the individual to recall the target memory while focusing on the associated negative emotions and physical sensations. The therapist then asks the individual to rate the intensity of the distress on a subjective units of distress (SUD) scale.
Phase 4-7:
Desensitization, Installation, Body Scan, and Closure The fourth through seventh phases of EMDR involve the processing of the target memory using bilateral stimulation. Bilateral stimulation refers to the simultaneous activation of both sides of the brain through eye movements, taps, or sounds. The therapist guides the individual through a series of bilateral stimulation sets while focusing on the target memory and associated negative emotions and physical sensations. The goal is to reduce the intensity of the distress associated with the memory and install positive beliefs and emotions. The therapist also conducts a body scan to identify any residual tension or distress and provides closure to the individual by bringing the session to a close.
Phase 8: Reevaluation
The final phase of EMDR involves the evaluation of the effectiveness of the treatment. The therapist asks the individual to recall the target memory and rate the intensity of the distress on the SUD scale. The therapist also assesses the individual’s general functioning and the degree to which the treatment goals have been achieved. If necessary, the therapist revisits the target memory and continues the processing until the individual achieves a satisfactory level of resolution.
Overall, the eight-phase protocol of EMDR provides a structured and comprehensive approach to treating trauma-related disorders. The protocol guides the therapist and individual through the various stages of treatment and promotes the processing of traumatic memories and the development of adaptive beliefs and emotions. The use of bilateral stimulation is a key feature of EMDR, as it facilitates the processing of traumatic memories and promotes the integration of cognitive and emotional processing.
