Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is an integrative psychotherapeutic approach that emphasizes the role of the brain’s [Page 389]information processing system. Mental health problems, excluding those caused by lack of information, organic deficit, toxicity, or physical injury, are conceptualized as the result of inadequately processed memories of disturbing or traumatic experiences. These unprocessed memories contain the emotions, physical sensations, and perspectives experienced at the time of the original disturbing event. EMDR comprises eight phases and a three-pronged methodology to identify and process (1) memories of past adverse life experiences that underlie present problems, (2) current situations that elicit disturbance, and (3) needed skills that will provide positive memory templates to guide the client’s future behavior. Using standardized procedures, which include sets of eye ...