Phase 1: History & Treatment Planning

• obtaining background information
• identifying suitability for EMDR treatment
• identifying processing targets from negative events in client’s life

Phase 2: Preparation

• education and resourcing
• learning imagery and stress reduction techniques
• stabilization and increasing access to positive states

Phase 3: Assessment

• selecting a target memory for processing
• stimulating primary aspects of the memory
• determining and rating a desired positive cognition using the Validity of Cognition (VOC) scale from 1-7
• rating the disturbance of the memory using the Subjective Units of Disturbance (SUD) scale from 1-10
• through approaching the memory, the aim is to reduce the disturbance and increase the positive belief

Phase 4: Desensitization

• processing the disturbing memories and sensations toward an adaptive resolution (0 SUD level)
• integration of positive insights and experiences

Phase 5: Installation

• increasing connections to positive belief networks
• reinforcing self-compassion, confidence, empowerment and emotional balance

Phase 6: Body Scan

• concentration on and processing of any residual physical sensations
• determining if you no longer feel stress or negative emotions related to the traumatic event
• process is repeated until the scan is clear

Phase 7: Closure

• • if the negativity associated with the event is not fully resolved, the therapist will end the session with a containment or calming exercise
  • if the event is resolved, the target memory will be reevaluated at the next session before moving on to another target

Phase 8: Reevaluation

• if the last session was incomplete, the therapist would begin again at phase 4
• if the last treatment session was complete, its effectiveness is evaluated to ensure that the disturbance level is gone and the positive belief and feelings remain