EMDR Cognitive Interweaves & Blocked Processing 2

Question 1

What does the term 'looping' mean in the context of EMDR reprocessing?

Accepted Answer

The client repeatedly returns to the same material without measurable change

Answer

Looping refers to a pattern where the client's associations cycle repeatedly through the same images, thoughts, or emotions without progression or reduction in disturbance.

Question 2

A 'safety interweave' in EMDR is most appropriate when:

Accepted Answer

The client remains convinced they are in danger even though the threat is past

Answer

A safety interweave addresses the client's perception that danger still exists in the present, helping them distinguish between past threat and current safety.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of a 'choices' interweave?

Accepted Answer

'What choices do you have now as an adult that you didn't have as a child?'

Answer

A choices interweave highlights the expanded options available to the client as an adult, contrasting their current autonomy with the helplessness experienced during the trauma.

Question 4

What is a 'blocking belief' in EMDR therapy?

Accepted Answer

An unresolved maladaptive belief that prevents full processing of a traumatic memory

Answer

A blocking belief is a deeply held maladaptive cognition that prevents the memory network from fully processing, often requiring a targeted interweave or additional preparation work.

Question 5

When a client's SUDS score stays the same across multiple sets of BLS with no association shifts, the therapist should consider all of the following EXCEPT:

Accepted Answer

Immediately installing a positive cognition using the VoC scale

Answer

Installing a positive cognition (Phase 5) before processing is complete is contraindicated; the correct responses to blocked processing are adjusting BLS, using interweaves, and exploring feeder memories.

(EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Practice Test

(EMDR) Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Practice Test

EMDR Cognitive Interweaves & Blocked Processing 2