EMDR Assessment & Treatment Planning 2

Question 1

Which instrument is most commonly used to assess PTSD symptom severity before initiating EMDR treatment?

Accepted Answer

PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5)

Answer

The PCL-5 is a widely validated 20-item self-report measure aligned with DSM-5 PTSD criteria used to gauge symptom severity before and during EMDR treatment.

Question 2

When a client presents with complex trauma and multiple traumatic memories, what is the recommended sequencing approach in EMDR treatment planning?

Accepted Answer

Target the touchstone memory or earliest representative memory first

Answer

Standard EMDR protocol recommends identifying and processing the touchstone event—the earliest or most representative memory linked to the current presenting problem—to address root-level learning.

Question 3

A clinician is assessing a potential EMDR client who reports hearing voices and has a history of psychosis. What is the most appropriate next step?

Accepted Answer

Rule out active psychosis and stabilize before considering EMDR

Answer

Active psychosis is a contraindication for standard EMDR; the clinician must ensure psychiatric stability before beginning trauma processing.

Question 4

In EMDR treatment planning, what does the term 'float-back technique' help clinicians identify?

Accepted Answer

Earlier memories linked to a current negative cognition or body sensation

Answer

The float-back (or affect bridge) technique guides clients from a current disturbing emotion or body sensation back to earlier memories that share the same template, aiding case conceptualization.

Question 5

Which of the following best describes 'informed consent' in the context of EMDR treatment planning?

Accepted Answer

Providing a full explanation of EMDR procedures, risks, benefits, and alternatives

Answer

Ethical practice requires that clients receive comprehensive information about EMDR—its procedures, potential risks (e.g., abreaction), benefits, and alternatives—before treatment begins.

(EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Practice Test

(EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Practice Test

EMDR Assessment & Treatment Planning 2