EMDR Therapy for Treating Service Members and Veterans: A Clinical Guide

In this book, the author describes how to use EMDR therapy to help active service members and veterans of combat with their unique needs. The guide discusses the features of military culture that affect psychotherapeutic treatment and demonstrates the application of EMDR therapy for treating active service members and veterans. Considering the clinical issues related to treating individuals who have repeatedly risked their lives, faced moral injuries, sexual assaults, and other dangers with far-reaching consequences, the author thoroughly examines the skills necessary for EMDR therapy. The practical guide covers all phases and processes of EMDR therapy from the initial introduction of the client to the principles of EMDR to developing a sense of safety during treatment. The book enables psychotherapists trained in EMDR therapy to properly assess and meet the clinical needs of veterans, including clients with post-traumatic stress disorder, traumatic brain injury, moral injury, military sexual trauma, and suicidal thoughts, by recognizing and addressing avoidance behaviors, creating motivation for treatment, and overcoming hidden obstacles. The book presents clinical cases of "stuckness" and various treatment options for addressing a wide range of symptoms. Each clinical case uses the adaptive information processing model, illustrating the client's treatment goals, representing their symptoms, target memories, and clinical decision points throughout the treatment.