How is EMDR done?
Although the procedure itself may appear simple, EMDR must be done by experienced professionals trained in EMDR. As in any therapy situation, there must be trust in the therapist, and a sense of safety (since this is a basic element that has been lost because of a trauma). During the reprocessing, intense emotions will be raised along with possible abreactions ( screaming/sobbing). Assuming the therapist is EMDR trained and skilled, the sessions will be based on the kind of problem and its longevity ( e.g., one-time rape or mugging versus years of sexual abuse that began at age four). A thorough history will be taken and a therapeutic relationship needs to form at this point. At the beginning of a session, instructions are given and the client must always be in control. The therapist will then move an idex finger back and forth in front of the eyes creating a rapid eye movement (saccadic movement), while the individual thinks about a past traumatic memory. Sound and tapping of the hand
