R-TEP: EMDR Recent Traumatic Event Protocol
Have you recently had a traumatic event that feels stuck in your brain and body? Do you feel like you haven't been able to move on? Are you having trouble sleeping, overwhelming anxiety, panic, flashbacks, & other distressing symptoms? EMDR has a specialized protocol called "R-TEP", Recent Traumatic Event Protocol, that specifically addresses one-time traumatic events as an early intervention. This can be address in extended sessions starting at 90 minutes. This protocol, similar to traditional EMDR Therapy, can be done in-person or virtually, and has the same efficacy either way.
RTEP- Recent Event EMDR can be helpful for:
-People who recently experienced a trauma and are overwhelmed by it.
-People who can't stop thinking about a trauma, it's impacting their sleep, and daily functioning.
-People who experienced a trauma some time ago but still re-experience it through flashbacks, nightmares, and daily triggers as though it was more recent.
Here are some specific examples of trauma's R-TEP can help:
-Medical Trauma
-Car Accident
-Relationship Trauma
-Assault
-Work Trauma
-Witnessing violence or a traumatic event
-Experiencing Natural Disaster
-Grief and Loss
-School Trauma
and other additional overwhelming traumatic experiences.
FAQs for EMDR (R-TEP)
Recent Traumatic Event Protocol
What is R-TEP in EMDR Therapy?
R-TEP has a quicker intake process to prioritize the recent event trauma therapy, to get the person relief as soon as possible. The steps of the protocol use bilateral stimulation but initially in a narrative form, vs immediately picking a target. Traditional EMDR typically addresses on-going previous traumas, relational or childhood trauma. For more information, see EMDR page or Trauma page.
How soon after a traumatic event can EMDR therapy R-TEP be used?
Typically it can be soon after - it depends on the person's ability to tolerate the therapy and making sure they have supports and the proper preparation.
Is there a special EMDR protocol for recent therapy?
Yes, R-TEP is a specialized EMDR early-intervention protocol for recent traumatic episodes. It differs from EMDR's standard protocol.
Can EMDR prevent PTSD after a traumatic event?
Yes, R-TEP can be used after a traumatic event, which can help reduce or mitigate PTSD symptoms all together.
