Phase 1: History and Treatment Planning

Understanding the clients history helps the therapist to see the whole picture - not just the trauma, but also the clients strengths, struggles and victories.

Other aspects are addressing current secondary gains or benefits. Is the client benefiting from this is any way, such as getting government support, having less responsibilities from work or family, or a reason to give in to their fears or anger.

Will this interfere with their family / professional / other life?

Identify the overall theme for the issue.

What would the client like to see different in their life?

Essentially, the therapist ascertains the client’s clinical picture

• Past event (AKA “target memory”)

• Present triggers

• Future goals

EMDR processing should not be implemented in the absence of:

• The therapist knowing an adequate history of me related to the issues

• A safe relationship with the therapist that involves trust

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