The many faces of addiction: Why do they keep relapsing & how can EMDR therapy help?

Addiction to substances and compulsive behaviors are some of the most challenging disorders of our time, however, treatments that effectively break the cycle of relapse have been elusive. Case conceptualization and target development in addictive disorders will be viewed through disordered attachment, thinking, spirituality, dissociation, memory and learning. Twelve-step recovery groups combined with individual and family therapy demonstrates the best clinical outcomes, yet clinicians can be unfamiliar or reluctant to recommend it and clients reluctant to engage. Clinical themes within 12-step will be reviewed to help motivate engagement in comprehensive treatment. Addiction as a disorder of learning and memory (AIP) suggests the potential for EMDR therapy to assist neuroplasticity and perhaps “reset” neural homeostasis. Video will be used to demonstrate the integration of reprocessing underlying trauma as well as addiction-specific memory targets including triggers, cravings, and (maladaptive) positive feeling-states.

Conference

English

Susan Brown

Brown, S. (2014, September). The many faces of addiction: Why do they keep relapsing & how can EMDR therapy help? Preconference presentation at the 20th EMDR International Association Conference, Denver, CO