Introduction to EMDR

Mechanism of Bilateral Stimulation

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapy that integrates cognitive, emotional and bodily elements.

Its distinctive component is bilateral brain stimulation, which can be performed by eye movements (following the therapist's fingers from side to side), alternating sounds (headphones) or tapping (gentle tapping on the hands or knees).

The underlying theory is that unprocessed trauma remains "frozen" in an isolated neural network, keeping the vivid images and sensations intact.

Bilateral stimulation, while maintaining attention on the memory, facilitates the connection of this isolated network with adaptive memory networks, allowing the brain to "digest" and archive the traumatic experience.

8-Phase Protocol (Initial Phases)

EMDR follows a structured protocol. After assessment and preparation (where it is ensured that the patient has stabilization resources), the "target" or memory to be processed is identified.

The patient is asked to select the most disturbing image of the event, the associated negative belief ("I am guilty", "I am in danger") and to locate the physical sensation in the body.

In turn, a desired positive belief is identified ("I did what I could", "I am safe now"). This sets the map for reprocessing.

Desensitization and Installation

During the desensitization phase, the patient focuses on the negative image and sensation while receiving bilateral stimulation in short bursts.

The therapist does not interpret, only facilitates the associative flow ("What do you notice now?", "Go on with that"). The process continues until the level of disturbance drops significantly.

Subsequently, in the installation phase, the positive belief ("I am valuable") is reinforced through stimulation, verifying that it feels true and congruent on an emotional and bodily level.

The goal is to transform the memory from a "present terror" to a neutral or learning "past event".