EMDR HEARRT

I have developed an integrative Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) technique informed by, Internal Family Systems (IFS), Accelerated Experiential-Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), and EcoTherapy called the Humanistic, Experiential, Acceptance, and Relational Reprocessing Technique (HEARRT)

EMDR-HEARRT focuses on, what attachment theory calls, the "internal working model". This refers to the mental framework or cognitive structure that individuals develop based on their early relationships and lived experiences. This model influences how people perceive themselves, others, and their interactions in relationships.

These models are shaped by early experiences with caregivers and peers to guide how individuals interpret and respond to social and emotional experiences throughout life. These internal working models play a crucial role in shaping attachment styles and influencing interpersonal relationships.

  • The internal working model includes:

    • Expectations of Self: How worthy or deserving of love and care one feels.

    • Expectations of Others: How reliable, available, and supportive others are perceived to be.

    • Expectations of Relationships: How relationships function and what one can expect from them.

With EMDR-HEARRT, I help you restructure your internal working model to create a felt sense of security in yourself and better navigate the world.  This felt sense is what will create the necessary resiliency to ensure you can overcome any barriers from your past, that you are experiencing in the present, and barriers you may encounter in the future. The majority of my clients say they feel they don’t belong or fit for one or several reasons. If you find yourself feeling this way, I may be a good fit for you to help you feel comfortable inside and outside of your shell. 

EMDR, AEDP, IFS, EFT, ACT, & EcoTherapy have several similarities despite their unique approaches.

Here are the key similarities:

Focus on Emotions

All five therapies emphasize understanding and processing emotions. They recognize that emotional experiences, especially those rooted in past traumas or negative experiences, are central to psychological distress and healing

Trauma-Informed

EMDR, AEDP, and EFT are explicitly trauma-informed therapies designed to address and heal the impacts of trauma. IFS and ACT also deal with trauma by addressing internal parts of the self or by promoting acceptance and commitment despite traumatic experiences.

Experiential Approach

These therapies involve engaging with and processing emotions and experiences in the therapeutic session rather than just discussing them abstractly. They often use in-session techniques to facilitate this processing.

Mind-Body Integration

EMDR and AEDP incorporate a somatic or body-focused component, recognizing that trauma and emotions are stored in the body. EFT, IFS, and ACT also consider the body's responses and sensations in their therapeutic processes.

Use of Specific Techniques

Each therapy employs specific techniques and interventions designed to facilitate emotional processing and healing. For example:

  •  EMDR uses bilateral stimulation.

  •  AEDP uses techniques to access core affective experiences.

  •  IFS involves working with internal parts of the self.

  • EFT focuses on transforming emotional responses within relationships.

  • ACT promotes acceptance, mindfulness, and commitment to values-based actions.

  • EcoTherapy offers nature and animal assisted interventions to help with grounding and resource building

Client-Centered and Relational

All five therapies are client-centered, emphasizing the therapeutic relationship as a crucial component of healing. They aim to create a safe, empathetic, and supportive environment for clients to explore and process their emotions and experiences. EcoTherapy offers a relational experience that is mutually beneficial and facilitates healing.

Attachment and Relational Patterns

EFT and AEDP are heavily based on attachment theory, which posits that early attachment experiences shape our emotional and relational patterns. EcoTherapy incorporates the relationship with nature as potential supports. While not explicitly attachment-based, IFS, EMDR, and ACT also acknowledge the role of relational experiences in emotional health.

Transformative Goals

The ultimate aim of these therapies is not just symptom reduction but transformation. They seek to help people achieve profound changes in their emotional, cognitive, and relational patterns, leading to a greater sense of well-being and self-understanding.

Empowerment and Agency

These therapies empower people to take an active role in their healing process. ACT, in particular, emphasizes personal values and committed action, helping people to live meaningful lives despite challenges. EcoTherapy can provide helpful metaphors from the environment and natures innate resiliency.

3 Stages, 8 Phases

This adaption of the standard EMDR protocol categorizes the 8 phases into 3 Stages of treatment. This technique allows for a dynamic and flexible approach, combining the strengths of each therapeutic modality to support comprehensive healing and personal growth on your therapeutic journey. 

Here's what you can expect:


What to expect…

Stage 1

Exploring and Stabilizing the Internal Working Model

Objectives:

  • Establish therapeutic relationship

  • Assess and collaborate with client on their needs for goals for treatment

  • Stabilize client and prepare for restructuring stage

History Taking Phase

  • Establish therapeutic relationship

  • Gather attachment and trauma history

  • Identify goals for therapy

Preparation & Resource Building Phase

  • Prepare for Stage 2

  • Develop strategies and resources to help when distressed

  • Identify parts of self and psychic defenses

Stage 2

Assessment Phase

  • Map out presenting problems

  • Identify focus for Desensitization and reprocessing (An experience, a part of self, a fear, etc.)

Desensitization and Reprocessing Phase

  • Desensitize and reprocess focus using Dual Attention Stimulus (Eye movements, tapping, etc.)

Objectives:

  • Presenting problem mapping

  • Reprocess trauma and emotional distress

  • Restructure internal working model

Restructuring Internal Working Model

Stage 3

Objectives:

  • Develop and deepen positive beliefs and adaptive content 

  • Consolidate adaptive changes to internal working model

  • Prepare for any future challenges

Consolidation of the Changed Internal Working Model

Installation Phase

  • Integrate and deepen positive shifts in the internal working model

Body Scan Phase

  • Check body for any residual negative content in the nervous system

Closure Phase

  • Further integrate positive shifts in the internal working model

  • Discuss how to consolidate positive shifts in-between sessions

Reevaluation Phase

  • Assess if shifts have solidified

  • Identify next focus if another is needed