A Therapist's Guide to EMDR: Tools and Techniques for Successful Treatment

by Laurel Parnell

1. Light up the memory network as clearly and completely as possible, engaging the different components (image, NC, emotion, and body sensations) so the processing can best move unimpeded to completion. 2. Get some kind of image if possible. Even if the image is vague, it stimulates the visual memory track. The image can be abstract, such as a red blob that represents the client’s anger or a drawing that represents what the client is experiencing. The image can be metaphorical, symbolic, or dreamlike. For example, with a person who has no visual memory but has strong body sensations, you can ask, “What image goes with the feelings in your body?” The client might say, “I get the image of someone stepping on me.” That image can then be used as the target image. If clients have difficulty visualizing, it is not a problem. Clients can go with a vague sense of a scene. However, make the image as clear as possible. Bring in details. Have clients see as fully as possible what is around them. 3. Don’t worry about the order of the setup. Allow clients to provide you with the necessary information as it unfolds for them. If clients tell you about their emotions and body sensations before the NC, don’t worry. Note them and move on.