How to Create Internal Resources for an EMDR Session
In EMDR therapy, the establishment of a safe space, protector, nurturer, and container is a technique called "Resource Development and Installation" (RDI).
This technique aims to help individuals develop internal psychological resources that can provide a sense of safety, support, and containment during the processing of distressing memories.
Here's a general overview of how these resources are established:
Safe Space: The therapist guides the individual in visualizing a safe and calming place in their imagination. This safe space can be a real or imagined location where the individual feels secure, relaxed, and at ease. The therapist encourages the individual to use all their senses to enhance the visualization, incorporating details such as sights, sounds, smells, and textures.
Protector: The therapist helps the individual identify an internal image or representation of a protector figure. This protector can be a person, an animal, a symbol, or even an inner strength. The protector should embody qualities such as strength, wisdom, courage, or any other attributes that provide a sense of safety and protection. The individual is encouraged to connect with this protector and imagine its presence during challenging moments.
Nurturer: The therapist assists the individual in identifying an internal image or representation of a nurturing figure. This nurturer can be a person, an archetype, a spiritual figure, or any other representation that evokes feelings of love, compassion, and support. The individual is guided to connect with this nurturing figure and imagine receiving care, comfort, and reassurance from it.
Container: The therapist helps the individual establish an internal container, which is a symbolic representation of a safe and secure space within themselves. This container can be visualized as a physical object, such as a box or a vault, or as a mental construct. The individual is encouraged to imagine placing distressing thoughts, feelings, or memories into the container, with the understanding that they can be safely contained and managed.
The establishment of these internal resources is typically done through guided imagery, visualization exercises, and somatic grounding techniques.
The therapist provides support, guidance, and validation throughout the process, ensuring that the resources feel authentic and meaningful to the individual.
It's important to note that the specific imagery and representations used for establishing these resources may vary based on individual preferences and cultural contexts. The therapist collaborates with the client to create and refine the resources that resonate most effectively for them.
Establishing these internal resources in EMDR therapy can provide a sense of stability, containment, and support, which can be helpful during the processing of traumatic memories and emotions.
These resources can be accessed and utilized as needed throughout the EMDR sessions to promote a sense of safety and well-being.
If you are interested in learning more about EMDR, please contact Kairos Wellness Collective today.
