The Distancing Approach: A Comprehensive Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Psychotherapy for Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder

Abstract

The Distancing Approach is a comprehensive psychotherapy, rooted in the principles and practices of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy. It aims to address the complex symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), through insight enhancement, skill development, desensitization of triggers, and reprocessing of related memories. Building on prior OCD research with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and with EMDR, it combines EMDR’s Phobia Protocol with two new EMDR-derived techniques: the Distancing Technique and Future Rehearsal. The Distancing Technique is designed to develop insight through the creation of adaptive coping statements. It identifies and strengthens these adaptive statements in EMDR’s preparation phase so that they can be available as resources during EMDR’s reprocessing phases and in daily life. Future Rehearsal is a technique that combines EMDR methods with CBT’s exposure response prevention to desensitize OCD triggers. EMDR’s Phobia Protocol is applied according to standard procedures. Consistent with the psychotherapy approach, the therapeutic relationship is optimized, and treatment is individualized, to best meet the needs of the client. A case example illustrates the application of the approach.