Authors
Ludwig Cornil ¹,
Olivier Van Limbergen ^2
1 Integrativa, Leonce Roelsstraat 96, 9620 Zottegem, Belgium
² Naar De Maan, Maanstraat 34, 9300 Aalst, Belgium

Background and Aims

EMDR-therapy is all about affect. In Bologna, the authors of AF-EMDR have illustrated the advantages of working ‘affect focused’, compared to working ’memory focused’. The way to access the core affect goes way beyond using only memories as is done in the standard protocol. Anything triggering the affect can be used as an entrance point into the deep, unbearable pain of relational trauma.

In this presentation, we would like to broaden the path of Affect Focused EMDR. Since our presentation in Bologna in 2023 [1], we have noticed a lot of interest in our AF-EMDR model around Europe [2][3][4][5]. After a brief recap, we would like to continue this story by showing the ways, possibilities and results of working with AF-EMDR.

Methods

We will present different entry points for working with AF-EMDR showing how we can enter and reprocess the unbearable pain. This will be illustrated with videos of therapeutic sessions and patients’ testimonials.

Results

Participants will be able to recognize the importance of accessing affect which they already intuitively know and oftentimes already do, and the presentation will offer a theoretical framework confirming the primacy of affect in EMDR.
Participants will have more options and better results working with adults that have been raised in problematic parenting situations.

Conclusion

There are more ways to work with EMDR, when we go beyond the basic protocol and use affect as a target. There is also no need to be fearful of facing the unbearable pain of childhood relational wounds.

Learning objectives

- Understanding that Affect is the centre of our patiens’ symptoms.
- Learning that by utilizing other entry points into the affect than memories alone we get more options to treat patients
- Counteracting therapist’s fear of patient’s emotions when going through the unbearable pain of childhood.

References
[1] https://youtu.be/1yFphyAnoQg?si=LGOQeBuUmfApnR8o
[2] https://youtu.be/Ouq1SDtc84w?si=Ll4qjSJ_fNzKgFUW
[3] https://youtu.be/OeRvVRppbCU?si=kObwCHL1ra4VoYN8
[4] https://youtu.be/q6sn47wnSXI?si=CAudbMxL-RQ5PiE-
[5] Isolation, powerlessness and shame : Braving the unbearable pain of childhood relational trauma (C. van
den Bosch)

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Authors
Dorit Segal¹,
Neomi Ravid^2
1UEMDR 4 Peace, 73 Shavey-Zion st, 3705210 Pardes-Hanna, Israel
²Ravid EMDR Institute, 3 Lechi st, 3845603 Hadera, Israel

Background and Aims
Sexual trauma profoundly impacts survivors, influencing emotional regulation, self-perception, and interpersonal relationships. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) has been shown to address trauma's core by desensitizing disturbing memories and fostering adaptive healing. This presentation aims to explore tailored EMDR protocols, emphasizing preparation phases and emotional regulation, for individuals with histories of sexual abuse.

Methods
The presentation will highlight adaptations to EMDR for survivors, focusing on stabilizing safety, addressing dissociative symptoms, and developing emotional resources. It incorporates unique adjustments to practical tools like the “Safe Place" exercise, bilateral stimulation, and techniques for managing complex PTSD symptoms, including emotional dysregulation, hyperarousal, and dissociation. Case examples will illustrate innovative uses of different kinds of interweaves and relational attunement to rebuild trust and overcome therapeutic impasses.

Results
Participants in the workshop will leave with a deepening of their understanding and knowledge about the treatment of sexual trauma with the help of EMDR. The workshop will enhance understanding the impact of sexual trauma on treatment, and how to leverage EMDR therapy in accordance with the specific needs of the patients.

Conclusions
Adapting EMDR protocols for sexual trauma survivors enhances its efficacy, particularly by integrating relational approaches and focusing on safety and preparation. These modifications facilitate deeper healing and empower survivors to regain control over their narratives and lives.

Learning Objectives
1. Understand the unique challenges of applying EMDR therapy to survivors of sexual trauma.
2. Learn strategies for integrating resource development and emotional stabilization in preparation phases.
3. Apply relational approaches to address therapeutic ruptures and enhance trust within the EMDR framework.