Attachment Focused EMDR (AF-EMDR) enhances traditional EMDR therapy by focusing on healing the impact of early relational traumas on current relationships and feelings of security. By reprocessing these foundational memories, AF-EMDR helps individuals reshape their current emotional world and relationship dynamics.
Imagine someone who grew up with critical parents. As an adult they struggle to accept compliments and bracing for criticism. AF-EMDR helps them process these early experiences allowing them to accept love and compliments without the burden of past criticisms.
While both approaches aim to process and heal from traumatic memories, AF-EMDR specifically targets memories influencing relationship patterns and attachment issues. In contrast, traditional EMDR addresses a broader spectrum of distressing experiences. AF-EMDR, therefore, offers a more specialized approach focusing on improving one’s ability to form and maintain healthy relationships.