Lecture on EMDR Recent Traumatic Episode Protocol (EMDR R-TEP)

Overview of EMDR R-TEP

• Developed for Early EMDR Intervention (EEI), focuses on trauma.
• Integrates existing EMD and Recent Event protocols.
• Emphasizes containment and safety.
• Typically requires 2-4 sessions.

Key Terminology

Traumatic Episode (T-Episode)

• Ongoing trauma continuum with multiple targets of disturbance, known as Points of Disturbance (PoDs).
• PoDs range from the original incident to present day.

Episode Narrative & Continuous BLS

• Telling the traumatic story out loud with BLS (Bi-Lateral Stimulation) for grounding.
• Avoids recounting trauma details in early phases.
• Optional use of distancing metaphor (e.g., TV screen).

Google Search (G-Search) or Scan

• Identifies PoDs using non-sequential scanning with BLS, without talking.

Focused Processing Strategies

• EMD Strategy: Narrow focus, limited range of associations related to PoD, effective for intrusive fragments.
• EMDr Strategy: Wider focus, follows association chains related to the T-Episode, main strategy.

Adapted 8 Phases Overview

Phase I: History/Intake

• Brief history, readiness evaluation.

Phase II: Preparation

• Safety and containment focus.
• Identification and processing of PoDs.

Phase III: Assessment

• Assessment of each identified PoD.

Phase IV: Focused Processing (Desensitization)

• Utilizes EMD and EMDr strategies.

Phase V: Installation

• Install PC if SUD is ecological.

Phase VI: Body Scan

• Conducted at episode level after processing all PoDs.

Phase VII: Closure

• Strong closure at end of each session.

Phase VIII: Follow-Up

• Check remaining PoDs and confirm ecological SUD.

EMDR R-TEP Protocol Instructions

• Emphasizes sensitivity and flexible application in early interventions.
• Evaluate readiness through SMS (Severity, Motivation, Strengths) ratings.
• Preparation includes self-stabilization and resource exercises.
• Focused Processing at PoD level involves: telling narrative with BLS, G-Search for PoDs, assessment, focused processing, and installation.

EMD and EMDr Strategies

• EMD: Used for intrusive fragments or when stuck, narrow focus on PoD.
• EMDr: Main strategy, wider focus on T-Episode associations.
• Interweaving between strategies as needed.

Episode Level Processing

• Check Episode SUD after processing PoDs.
• Install Episode PC if SUD is ecological.
• Use interweaves or standard EMDR protocol if necessary.

Tools and Assessments

• PCL-5 for assessing stress-related issues.
• Data collection includes client history, SMS evaluations, and follow-ups for changes in functioning and feedback.