EMDR

EMDR is an 8-phase process and that might seem like a lot of steps but in practice won’t feel that clunky in the therapy room.

Phase 1

Phase 2

Phase 3

Phase 4

Phase 5

Phase 6

Phase 7

Phase 8

The First Steps: Planning and Safety

• Phase 1: History and Treatment Planning – The therapist learns your background, discusses your symptoms, and creates a plan for which past events or current triggers to target. [1, 2]

• Phase 2: Preparation – The therapist builds trust, explains how EMDR works, and teaches you calming tools (like a "safe place" mental exercise) to manage strong emotions. [1, 2]

The Core Work: Assessing and Processing

• Phase 3: Assessment – You pick a specific target memory and identify the image, negative belief (e.g., "I am helpless"), positive belief you want instead, and physical feelings tied to it. [1, 2]

• Phase 4: Desensitization – You focus on the memory while the therapist uses bilateral stimulation (like side-to-side eye movements, taps, or sounds) to lower your distress level. [1, 2]

• Phase 5: Installation – You focus on strengthening the chosen positive belief until it feels true while thinking of the target memory. [1, 2]

• Phase 6: Body Scan – You check your body from head to toe to find and process any lingering physical tension or discomfort linked to the memory. [1, 2]

Wrapping Up and Reviewing

• Phase 7: Closure – The session ends with calming techniques to make sure you feel stable and safe before you leave.

• Phase 8: Reevaluation – At the start of the next session, the therapist checks your progress to see if the distress stays low or if new memories need attention. [1, 2]

Somatic Integrated Processing

I am part of a small group of therapists that has engaged with learning on Somatic Integrated Processing (SIP) that interweaves several conceptualizations of psychological, somatic, and attachment work.

Somatic