Advanced techniques in the EMDR-based treatment of complex trauma

Abstract:EMDR is an efficacious therapy for the treatment of PTSD. Increasingly, EMDR is being recognized as an important and viable therapy in the treatment of complex PTSD, including Dissociative Disorder Not Otherwise Specified, Dissociative Identity Disorder, and personality disorders that have their origins in attachment trauma. This population presents unique clinical challenges in terms of stability, affect tolerance, and accessibility to trauma resolution. While much has been written and presented about affect regulation, attachment issues, and dissociation, therapists are not often aware that these phenomena emerge and must be managed throughout all phases of EMDR therapy. This presentation will focus on advanced techniques that provide solutions to problems within phases 2,3, and 4. Clinicians will learn techniques to incorporate in the stabilization/ preparation phase and to revisit as necessary in later stages of EMDR treatment. Objectives include helping the patient effectively deal with reactions such as avoidance, freeze, hyperarousal and numbing. Techniques include ego state work and somatic interweaves.In Phase 4, (desensitization) therapists will be learn about the Zone of Optimal Arousal and learn a sequence of advanced techniques to maintain client stability and safety, and to identify when and why a patient has stopped processing.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to perform a series of strategies for overcoming looping and blocking in EMDR phases three and four. Participants will be able to utilize the Domains of Self Model to rapidly assess triggers and anticipate processing style and resolution profile. Participants will be able to utilize the Zone of Optimal Processing model to assess problems with processing and select appropriate strategies to safely resume desensitization.

Conference

English

Barry Litt

Litt, B. (2012, October). Advanced techniques in the EMDR-based treatment of complex trauma. Presentation at the International Society for the Study of Trauma and Dissociation 29th Annual International Conference, Long Beach, CA