Use of the Flash Technique in EMDR Therapy: Four Case Examples

Abstract

This article introduces the flash technique, a new technique used during the preparation phase of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy to facilitate processing of intense, traumatic memories that clients might otherwise be resistant to access. Anecdotal evidence suggests that this technique may make it possible for clients to access these memories initially in a minimally disturbing way, reducing their emotional intensity so that they can then be more easily and fully processed using EMDR therapy. The technique appears to be easily tolerated by clients of all ages, including children; and to be rapid and relatively painless for clients, even those with particularly disturbing target memories; and can be easily taught to clinicians. It has the distinct feature that clients who are avoiding a terribly disturbing memory can be offered a way of processing it without having to bring it clearly to mind. Four case examples, in which the technique was used by four different clinicians, are presented briefly. Suggestions are made for further study. This article hypothesizes various mechanisms of action and discusses the effects in terms of memory reconsolidation theory.

A Model for the Flash Technique Based on Working Memory and Neuroscience Research

“…However, in the case of severe trauma, clients may find the memory too traumatic and may go into an abreaction such as dissociation. In 2017, Manfield et al (2017) developed the FT to help clients bring down their distress level quickly so that EMDR can proceed. In the FT, circa 2017, clients only need to identify the memory to be processed and then focus on a positive experience.…”

“…There are various speculations regarding the putative mechanism for the observed rapid effects. Manfield (2017) suggested that FT might be similar to subliminal messaging, with the client accessing the memory so briefly that he or she was not consciously aware of the details of the memory to be processed. However, it is not clear how the current practice of FT, with the blinking, can be related to subliminal messaging.…”

“…Then the PEF is interrupted by a verbal cue such as "flash." The interruption can be purposeful, as when the client is asked to think about the memory very briefly, without even being aware of the emotions or the details of the memory (Manfield et al, 2017), or when the client is asked to briefly recall a symbolic representation of the memory, looking at the book three times (Wong, 2019). In both cases, the client may briefly access the traumatic memory directly or via a trigger/representation of the memory, and then quickly returns to the PEF.…”

The Structure of EMDR Therapy: A Guide for the Therapist

“…It is important to keep in mind that the application of CIPOS does lead to complete memory reprocessing with the majority of cases. Recently the Flash Technique (Manfield et al, 2017) was introduced. It shows some similarities but needs further research and evaluation regarding the position in EMDR Therapy.…”

Primary care community engagement – delivery of an enhanced and brief homogeneous group TF-CBT intervention for trauma from a single-incident road traffic accident: a case study

“…The rationale behind including values clarification was to help clients evaluate what was important and to promote behavioural change. • Dissociation, hyperarousal and resistance to visiting the trauma memory were also managed by using the flash technique borrowed from EMDR as described by Manfield et al (2017). Using this technique allowed brief exposure of a few seconds to the trauma memory in order to safely prime the clients for full engagement with the trauma memory.…”