Keren Mintz Malchi PhD,¹, Michael Hase MD<sup>2

1</sup>Ariel University, Lev Hasharon Mental Health Center, Israel, ²EMDR Center, Im Kamp 9, 21335 Lüneburg, Germany

Background and aims:
As EMDR therapists, we are blessed by a trauma-informed approach, and more specifically by Shapiro’s (2018) AIP (Adaptive Information Processing) model, which guides us in understanding how life experiences mold our current thoughts, emotions, behaviors, the connection to our body and interpersonal relationships, amongst other important life factors. Aside from the sequalae of sexual abuse, the topic of sex, both from a perspective of healthy sexuality, as well as from the perspective of specific sexual dysfunctions are generally less researched and clinically presented within the international EMDR community.
Methods: A literature survey was performed to gain insight into theoretical concepts in the field and describe interfaces with the AIP model as well on existing data in the EMDR related lierature.
Results: The current workshop aims to bring the topic of sexuality into prime focus, expanding participants’ connection to and knowledge of EMDR psychotherapy integration with sexual-related themes, difficulties, and dysfunctions. Bringing together theoretical and clinical models from the field of sex therapy, including the Human Sexual Response Model (1966) The PLISSIT Model (Annon, 1976), The Basson Model (cite) and Schnarch’s Four Points of Balance model (2009), participants will learn about ways to help clients connect with their own sexualities, bodies and sexual preferences, and to enhance these for a more adaptive and satisfying sexual life. In addition, the workshop will provide guidelines on working with specific sexual issues and dysfunctions within EMDR psychotherapy, providing relevant clinical examples and guidelines, including treatment planning, specific sex-related exercises and body-based techniques will be discussed as well as creative and necessary adaptions for the reprocessing of relevant memories, triggers and future templates. The addiction memory theory contributes to this approach. It will be discussed. Experiential exercises, clinical case examples and client videos will highlight the work presented.

Abstract topic:
EMDR Therapy, Psychotherapy, Sexual Dysfunction, Addiction Memory

Learning objectives:
1. Understand EMDR Therapy as a comprehensive psychotherapy.
2. Participants will learn experientially about ways to help connect with their own sexualities, bodies and sexual preferences.
3. Participants will learn to enhance understanding of sexuality and intimacy for a more adaptive and satisfying sexual life for clients.
4. The workshop will provide guidelines on working with specific sexual issues and dysfunctions within EMDR psychotherapy, providing relevant clinical guidelines and examples, including treatment planning, specific sex-related exercises, body-based techniques, as well as adaptations and interweaves for the desensitization phase.
5. Participants will learn to detect addiction memory especially in sex- and porn addiction.