Based on the profound expertise of the author--an EMDR therapist, consultant, and
trainer who brings 33 years of military experience to his therapeutic work--this is a
"how-to" manual on the unique treatment needs of active duty and veteran populations
and how to help them using EMDR therapy. Following an examination of the defining
characteristics and philosophy of military culture as they pertain to therapeutic treatment,
the book comprehensively applies the EMDR model to the active military and veteran
populations with a variety of presenting issues.
Considering the clinical challenges of treating a population with repeated exposure to
life-threatening experiences, moral injury, sexual assault, and other potentially debilitating
trauma, the book addresses skill development specific to EMDR treatment in detail. This
go-to manual covers all the steps and processes of EMDR treatment from introducing
EMDR therapy to the client to developing a sense of safety in the treatment arena. The
book enables therapists trained in EMDR therapy to appropriately assess and address
the clinical needs of veterans, including clients with PTSD, traumatic brain injury,
moral injury, military sexual trauma (MST), and suicidal ideation, by recognizing and
addressing avoidance and building motivation for treatment and treatment pitfalls.
Case examples address clinical "stuck" points and a variety of treatment options when
addressing a broad range of symptoms. The EMDR AIP model is incorporated into each
case illustrating the veteran's treatment goal, presenting symptoms, targeted memories,
and clinical decision points in treatment.