There’s a new version of EMDR on the scene: EMDR 2.0. This builds upon the original EMDR therapy processes and protocols, incorporating new technology and techniques to enhance the therapy outcome.
In this blog post, we’ll explore what EMDR 2.0 therapy is, how it differs from traditional EMDR, and what benefits it can offer to clients.
First, let’s start with the basics.
EMDR 2.0 is still based on the original EMDR technique, which involves a therapist guiding a client through a series of eye movements while they recall traumatic memories. The theory behind EMDR is that the eye movements help to stimulate the brain’s natural healing process, allowing the client to reprocess the traumatic memory in a more adaptive way.
The working memory taxation model is a key aspect of EMDR 2.0 that helps to explain why the technique is effective in treating trauma. According to this model, traumatic memories are stored in a “frozen” or unprocessed state in the brain’s memory network. When a person recalls a traumatic memory, it activates the network and causes an overload of information to flood the working memory. This can lead to feelings of distress and anxiety and makes it difficult for the person to process the memory in a healthy way.
Taxing the working memory.
EMDR 2.0 works by taxing the working memory in a controlled way, through the use of eye movements or other bilateral stimulation. This “taxation” of the working memory allows the traumatic memory to become “unstuck” and move into the brain’s long-term memory network, where it can be processed in a more adaptive way.
The working memory taxation model is important to EMDR because it helps to explain why the technique is effective in treating trauma, and why the eye movement component of EMDR is so crucial. By using bilateral stimulation to tax the working memory, EMDR allows the brain to reprocess the traumatic memory in a more adaptive way, leading to a reduction in distress and symptoms.
In summary, the working memory taxation model is an important aspect of 2.0 that helps to explain why the technique is effective in treating trauma. By understanding how traumatic memories are stored in the brain, and how working memory taxation can help to “unstick” these memories and promote healing, EMDR practitioners can provide more effective and personalized treatment to their clients.
Another key aspect of 2.0 is a greater emphasis on customization. Traditional EMDR involves a set protocol that is used for all clients, regardless of their individual needs. With EMDR 2.0, practitioners have more flexibility to tailor the therapy to each client’s unique situation. This might involve using different types of eye movements, incorporating other techniques like cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), or adjusting the pace of the therapy sessions.
The Benefits
So, what are the benefits of EMDR 2.0? For starters, the use of technology can make the therapy more engaging and immersive for clients, which can enhance the therapeutic benefits. The customization aspect of EMDR 2.0 also allows for a more individualized approach, which can be especially helpful for clients with complex trauma histories or co-occurring mental health conditions.
Another benefit of EMDR 2.0 is that it’s a relatively brief therapy. While the length of treatment can vary depending on the client’s needs, EMDR 2.0 is generally faster than traditional talk therapy or other forms of trauma treatment. This can be a major advantage for clients who are looking to make progress quickly and get back to their daily lives.
Limitations
Of course, like any therapy technique, EMDR 2.0 has its limitations. It may not be the best fit for everyone, and it’s important to work with a qualified therapist who can assess whether it’s the right approach for you. But for many clients, EMDR 2.0 can offer a powerful, innovative way to heal from trauma and other mental health challenges.
EMDR 2.0 is a new and exciting approach to trauma therapy that builds on the original EMDR technique. By incorporating technology and customization, it can offer a more engaging and effective therapy experience for clients.
Contact Stephen Jacobs for more information
If you’re interested in trying EMDR to help manage your chronic pain, don’t hesitate to reach out to Stephen to learn more about whether EMDR therapy might work for you.
