The Secret to launching an effective EMDR Processing session - Part 2

In our previous blog, "the Secret to Launching an Effective EMDR Processing Session-Part 1" we talked about the importance of isolating a particular memory to work on. We emphasize this point because we have found many of our consultees/trainees launch into EMDR processing without a specific memory. For example, a client may be talking about how distressing it was in childhood when mom ignored her. The therapist may then ask for an NC, go through the rest of the Assessment (PH III) and go straight into processing. But a specific memory was not isolated! If, for example, this client has trouble isolating a memory of mom ignoring her, the next step would be to develop a "prototypical memory". The clinician can ask: what was the typical scene of mom ignoring you ---where would you be, what would she be doing, what would you be doing, how old do you see yourself as....". So the client might say "I see myself as 5 years old, my mom is at the table drinking coffee and reading, I am in the corner of the room looking at her and waiting for her to notice me, and I am sad...".

The bottom line is, if you can't get a specific memory from a client, work with them to get a prototypical memory. This will ensure for more effective processing!

We hope this helps you!