Psychedelic-assisted EMDR therapy (PsyA-EMDR): A memory consolidation approach to psychedelic healing

This article outlines a 12-session protocol for psychedelic-assisted eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy (PsyA-EMDR).

Article Abstract

“As access to psychedelic therapy is rolled out, there is a need to develop comprehensive preparation and integration protocols, particularly to support individuals with an impaired capacity to self-regulate. Moreover, there is an immediate need to develop comprehensive, trauma-informed harm reduction and risk minimalisation models as illegal, underground psychedelic therapy rapidly expands. This article outlines a 12-session protocol for psychedelic-assisted eye movement desensitisation and reprocessing therapy (PsyA-EMDR), where the 8-phases are utilised to enhance the preparation and integration stages of this ground-breaking psychotherapeutic intervention. Because the memory consolidation model of EMDR is suited to support complex post-traumatic stress disorder (cPTSD), it is proposed that it would also work well in supporting those experiencing regressed ego states as well as the somatic dysregulation that is often caused during work with psychedelics. This trauma-informed framework focuses on stabilisation, resourcing, tolerance testing, and embodiment before individuals receive any psychedelic treatments.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Raine-Smith, H., & Rose, J. (2023, Winter). Psychedelic-assisted EMDR therapy (PsyA-EMDR): A memory consolidation approach to psychedelic healing. EMDR Therapy Quarterly. https://etq.emdrassociation.org.uk/paper/psychedelic-assisted-emdr-therapy-psya-emdr-a-memory-consolidation-approach-to-psychedelic-healing/