Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR)

Abstract

EMDR stands for "Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing". This eight-phase treatment concept describes the full process of trauma treatment. As described by Janet in 1889 and recommended in today's treatment guidelines for PTSD, EMDR begins with trauma-specific history taking, treatment planning and stabilization. Only after sufficient stabilization, techniques for trauma resolution are applied. These are processing phases characteristic for EMDR. For each processing session, a stressful memory is selected and integrated in five steps: Assessment, desensitization, installation, body scan and closure. In the best-case scenario, the traumatic memory has lost its stressful quality at the end of therapy, and the client's quality of life has improved significantly.