The Practice of Eye Movement Desensitization

Eye movement desensitization therapy (EMD) is a controversial psychological treatment that involves systematic eye movements to decrease distressing memories. The author of this book first used EMD in 1991 and has since trained thousands of psychological therapists and treated millions of patients. The method remains controversial, but the author offers an explanation and discusses therapeutic targets, problem-solving, and the use of distress measurement. EMD is considered the way forward for psychological treatment.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 28 June 2022
Publisher: Troubador Publishing

Eye movement desensitization therapy (EMDT) is a therapeutic approach that has gained significant attention over the past three decades. Developed by the late Dr. Francine Shapiro, a psychologist in California, EMDT has shown promising results in reducing distressing memories. Since its inception, thousands of psychological therapists have been trained in this method, and millions of patients have benefited from it.

Despite its effectiveness, EMDT remains controversial due to the lack of a widely accepted explanation for its mechanism of action. Some researchers suggest that it involves artificial REM sleep, while others argue for a more comprehensive understanding. More research is needed to shed light on this aspect.

The author of this book, who first utilized EMDT in 1991, has compiled a comprehensive resource that reflects their 30 years of experience, reflection, and research. The book provides a detailed description of the method, along with various therapeutic targets and problem-solving approaches. It also addresses issues related to memory and assessment, advocating for the use of distress measurement as a key component of good practice.

An explanation is developed within the book to explain how EMDT works, highlighting its potential to unload the patient's overloaded working memory. The limitations of the method are also considered, and the author suggests that artificial dreaming may play a role in facilitating the therapeutic process.

EMDT is seen as a promising avenue for psychological treatment, offering practitioners and those considering initial training a concise and readable account of the approach. The book provides valuable insights into the techniques and applications of EMDT, making it a valuable resource for those working in the field of mental health.

Weight: 418g
Dimension: 148 x 211 x 34 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781800465527