Phase 1: History Taking

A therapist will begin by taking a thorough history of the client during the first phase. This stage not only builds rapport between the therapist and the client but also identifies potential target memories for EMDR processing. The history-taking phase is foundational in shaping a tailored treatment plan that addresses the client’s specific needs.

Phase 2: Preparation

The preparation phase involves explaining the EMDR technique and equipping clients with various stress reduction tools required during and between sessions. This phase also establishes trust and explains what to expect in the forthcoming sessions, ensuring that clients are comfortable and engaged in the therapeutic process.

Phase 3: Assessment

During the assessment phase, the therapist helps the client select a target memory to focus on and identify the associated image reflecting the worst part of the memory. Moreover, the client assesses the negative belief about themselves related to this memory, the emotions and body sensations accompanying it, and a positive belief they would rather have.

Phase 4: Desensitization

This phase is where the core of EMDR occurs. Clients focus on the target memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, usually through eye movements guided by the therapist. This process continues until the memory becomes less disturbing, and the client's distress scores decrease on the Subjective Units of Disturbance scale (SUD).

Phase 5: Installation

The positive belief identified in the assessment phase is then strengthened and “installed” as the preferred association with the memory. This step is to ensure that the positive beliefs hold more weight and are more prominent in the individual’s consciousness when the memory is accessed.

Phase 6: Body Scan

After the desensitization and installation processes, the client is asked to think about the target memory and notice any residual physical tension or unusual sensations in the body. The therapist works with the client to target these sensations with further EMDR processing until the body can recall the memory while remaining relaxed.

Phase 7: Closure

Closure is critical to ending an EMDR session, regardless of whether the processing of a memory is complete. Therapists will ensure clients are left feeling better than when they started and have techniques to handle any residual disturbances.

Phase 8: Reevaluation

At the beginning of the next session, and subsequently at the beginning of each session, the therapist will reevaluate the progress made thus far. This phase confirms the maintenance of therapy gains and decides whether to move on to new targets or continue reprocessing existing ones.

The phases of EMDR Therapy offer a structured and scientifically backed pathway to not only confront distressing memories but also diminish their hold upon the psyche. Through its unique approach of bilateral stimulation coupled with focused attention on traumatic events, EMDR empowers individuals to recapture a sense of normalcy and move forward in life with significantly less psychological stress.

For anyone in Winter Park, FL, grappling with the aftermath of trauma and considering EMDR therapy, Orlando Thrive Therapy stands ready to offer support, expert guidance, and a compassionate environment conducive to healing and growth. By trusting in the process and the skillful hands of a qualified EMDR therapist, many have found the relief they seek and the courage to thrive once again.

Contact Orlando Thrive Therapy today and take the first step towards harnessing the benefits of EMDR Therapy in Winter Park, FL.