Phase | Purpose | Procedure |
Medical history collection | Obtain background information; Identify suitability for EMDR treatment; Identify reprocessing targets from events in the patient’s life according to standardized three-pronged protocol | Standard medical history-questionnaires and diagnostic psychometrics; Review of selection criteria; Questions and techniques to identify : 1) past events that have laid the foundations for the pathology; 2) current triggers; and 3) future needs |
Preparation | Prepare suitable patients for EMDR reprocessing of targets | Education based on the symptom profile; Metaphors and techniques to foster stabilization and a sense of personal control |
Assessment | Access the target for EMDR reprocessing by stimulating primary aspects of the memory | Elicit body image, negative beliefs currently held, desired positive belief, current emotions, physical sensations and baseline measures |
Desensitization | Reprocess experiences toward an adaptive resolution (no distress) | Standardized protocols incorporating eye movements (taps or tones) that allow the spontaneous emergence of insights, emotions, physical sensations, and other memories |
Installation | Improve connections to positive cognitive networks | Enhance the validity of the desired positive belief and fully integrate the positive effects within the memory network |
Body scan | Complete reprocessing of any residual disturbance associated with the target | Concentration on and reprocessing of any residual physical sensation |
Closure | Ensure patient stability on completion of an EMDR session and between sessions | Use of guided imagery or self-control techniques if needed; Briefing on expectations and behavioral reports between sessions |
Reassessment | Ensure maintenance of therapeutic outcomes and patient stability | Evaluation of treatment effects; Evaluation of integration within broader social system |