How EMDR Uses Memory Reconsolidation as A Key to Trauma Healing

Memory reconsolidation is a process in which existing memories are retrieved and then updated or modified before being stored again. When a memory is recalled, it becomes temporarily labile, or unstable, which makes it susceptible to modification. During this labile state, new information or experiences can be integrated into the memory, potentially altering its content or emotional significance. Once the memory is reconsolidated, it is stored again in a modified form.

This process is believed to play a crucial role in memory updating, learning, and adaptation. It has significant implications for therapies aimed at treating conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), phobias, and addiction, as it provides a potential mechanism for disrupting or altering maladaptive memories. Therapeutic interventions that capitalize on memory reconsolidation seek to target and modify specific memories associated with problematic behaviors or emotional responses.

Steps for Memory Reconsolidation

1. Reactivate

The event or memory is called up or brought to mind-thought of. When thinking of a memory the person may pull up images, body sensations, thoughts, or emotions about the event. The memory must be activated strongly enough to have a connection to it. This step may also involve identifying the underlying beliefs and schemas that the person may have associated with this memory. The associations may be subconscious which contributes to negative behaviors in the present time.

2. Mismatch/unlock

Next a new experience is created to contradict the expectations formed from previously learned information about an event. The brain has established patterns based on information from the original event. By challenging these established patterns and expectations, the brain becomes open to integrating new learning and information. The patterns may be challenged by facing fears or thoughts about the original event.   

3. Revise the Response

Following the reactivation and mismatching of the memory, neural networks become activated and malleable for a period of around five hours. During this window, new information can be incorporated. This could involve alternative perspectives on the event or the inclusion of details that were not initially found in the memory.

EMDR and Memory Reconsolidation

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach primarily used to treat trauma-related disorders, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). EMDR therapy involves a structured protocol where the client recalls distressing memories while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, typically through the therapist's hand movements, taps, or auditory cues.

EMDR utilizes memory reconsolidation principles in several ways:

1.     Memory Activation

The therapy begins by activating traumatic memories or distressing experiences. This process brings the memories into conscious awareness, making them accessible for reprocessing.

2.     Bilateral Stimulation

While the client holds the activated memory in mind, the therapist guides them through bilateral stimulation, such as moving their eyes back and forth or using other rhythmic stimuli. This bilateral stimulation is thought to mimic the rapid eye movement (REM) phase of sleep, during which memory processing occurs naturally. It appears to facilitate the reprocessing of traumatic memories by promoting information integration.

3.     Updating of Associations

As the bilateral stimulation occurs, the client's brain may become more susceptible to updating the associations and emotional responses linked to the traumatic memory. This process allows for the integration of new, more adaptive information and perspectives, leading to a reduction in the emotional distress associated with the memory.

4.     Memory Reconsolidation

By engaging in EMDR, the client undergoes memory reactivation, followed by the incorporation of new information and emotional responses. This process disrupts the original memory trace and facilitates the formation of a revised memory trace that is less distressing and more adaptive.

Overall, EMDR utilizes the principles of memory reconsolidation to help individuals process and resolve traumatic memories as well as maladaptive thinking that leads to depression, anxiety, or other problematic behaviors.