Tag Archives: therapy

Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS) , what is that:

Subjective units of Distress scale (SUDS) , what is that:

The Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS) is a self-reporting scale used in psychology and therapy to measure the intensity of a person’s subjective emotional distress or anxiety. It is a numerical rating scale that typically ranges from 0 to 100, with higher numbers indicating higher levels of distress.

Individuals are asked to rate their current level of distress or anxiety on the scale based on their own subjective experience. This allows therapists, counselors, or researchers to obtain a quantifiable measure of the person’s emotional state. SUDS is commonly used in various therapeutic approaches, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and exposure therapy, to assess changes in distress levels over time or in response to specific interventions.

For example, in exposure therapy, a person may gradually confront a feared situation or object, and their SUDS rating is taken before, during, and after the exposure to track the reduction in distress over time. It provides a useful tool for both clients and therapists to communicate and monitor progress in the treatment of anxiety-related conditions.

Shervan K Shahhian

Eight phases of EMDR, what are they:

Eight phases of EMDR, what are they:

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a therapeutic approach commonly used to treat trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). EMDR involves a structured eight-phase process to help individuals process distressing memories and experiences. The eight phases of EMDR are as follows:

History-taking and Treatment Planning:

  • The therapist gathers information about the client’s history, trauma experiences, and current symptoms.
  • Treatment goals are established, and the therapist and client collaborate on a treatment plan.

Preparation:

  • The therapist educates the client about the EMDR process and helps them develop coping strategies to manage emotional distress.
  • Establishing a therapeutic alliance and building trust between the client and therapist is crucial in this phase.

Assessment:

  • Specific target memories or experiences are identified for processing.
  • Associated negative beliefs about oneself and positive beliefs are determined.
  • Disturbing emotions and physical sensations related to the target are assessed.

Desensitization:

  • The client focuses on the identified target memory while simultaneously engaging in bilateral stimulation, typically through side-to-side eye movements, auditory tones, or other forms of bilateral stimulation.
  • The goal is to facilitate the processing of the traumatic memory, reducing its emotional charge.

Installation:

  • Positive beliefs are targeted and strengthened through bilateral stimulation.
  • The positive cognition is associated with the previously disturbing memory.

Body Scan:

  • The client identifies and addresses any residual physical tension or discomfort associated with the targeted memory.
  • Bilateral stimulation is used to help release any remaining physical tension.

Closure:

  • The therapist ensures that the client is in a stable state before ending the session.
  • Coping strategies are reinforced, and the client is encouraged to use them between sessions.

Reevaluation:

  • In subsequent sessions, the therapist and client review progress and address any remaining issues.
  • Additional memories or aspects may be targeted for processing if needed.

It’s important to note that EMDR should be conducted by a trained and licensed mental health professional. The eight phases provide a structured framework for the therapeutic process, helping individuals work through and integrate traumatic experiences.

Shervan K Shahhian