Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy (EMDR)

Abstract

Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is an empirically validated psychotherapy approach used to treat mental health disorders stemming from trauma and other adverse life experiences in children, adolescents, and adults (Shapiro 1995/2001, Shapiro 2014a, b). EMDR therapy involves eight standardized phases to comprehensively address the clinical picture. Treatment includes targeting and implementing the standardized information processing procedures to address (1) the memories of disturbing events that are etiological to emotional, cognitive, and behavioral problems, (2) current situations that trigger dysfunction, and (3) the incorporation of needed skills for future challenges. The case conceptualization, procedures, and protocols are based on the adaptive information processing (AIP) model, which posits that memories of disturbing events may be physiologically stored in unprocessed form, leading to problems in day-to-day functioning.