EMDR Essentials: A Guide for Clients and Therapists

by Barb Maiberger

A consumer's handbook to the basics of EMDR therapy. Today, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is a widely used integrative protocol to help individuals access and overcome their traumatic memories. However, many―both clients and practitioners alike―still know very little about it, or are badly misinformed. To those not familiar with it, EMDR can seem overly theoretical and abstract, and if it’s not practiced correctly, can be ineffective, or worse, harmful. But with a skilled therapist to carefully guide and facilitate the process, as the author writes, “relief is so great it often feels like magic.” The purpose of this concise handbook, written by a veteran EMDR practitioner, is to explain EMDR in a simple, straightforward way so that that readers will know what to expect and how to prepare themselves for treatment. Many books on the subject delve into the theory or technical aspects of EMDR. This book does just the opposite. Maiberger focuses on the basics in an easy-to-read way so consumers and therapists alike can quickly understand what it’s all about. The first part of the book lays the framework, describing the phases of EMDR treatment, the nature of trauma and its effect on memory, how to choose an EMDR therapist, safety issues, and answering why EMDR works and how it can work for children. In the second part of the book, case examples are presented from the author’s clinical experience that put it all into practice, demonstrating exactly how EMDR therapy can successfully resolve deep emotional problems and traumas.

240 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2008

Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book as an introduction to EMDR. She covers what it is, it’s history, and breaks it down step-by-step. The second part is all client stories, which show EMDR in action. Highly recommend for anyone considering this treatment.

[Carolyn · Rating 1 out of 5]

Too many examples of client/therapist session scripts. Not really helpful in terms of practical how-to information.

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’d give it 3.5 stars. Very helpful in understanding EMDR. Unfortunately the nature of this book only likely reaches a clinical audience or one that already knows about the topic, when it would be really helpful for those who are unaware of it and would benefit from it. It was very easy to follow, flowed well, and was a quick read.