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, or other distressing symptoms? EMDR has a specialized early intervention protocol called "R-TEP", Recent Traumatic Event Protocol, that specifically addresses one-time traumatic events. This can be addressed 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/or daily triggers.
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 similar to EMDR 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/coping skills.
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.
Does every EMDR therapist offer R-TEP?
No, not every EMDR therapist is trained in R-TEP - it is a separate training EMDR therapists can take after completing the full basic training.
How do I know if R-TEP is right for me?
You can consult an EMDR therapist - many therapists trained in this protocol will have it in their profiles and website.
What should I do if I'm still very distressed after a traumatic event?
Reach out to a trauma trained therapist for virtual or in-person sessions.
