What’s BEST for Trauma Recovery EMDR or Flash Technique?

Both EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) and the Flash Technique are used to treat trauma.

While EMDR has been studied for decades, the Flash Technique was developed because of the intense, overwhelming EMDR process. But studies show it can be just as effective, and in most cases, significantly more comfortable for clients.

What is EMDR?

EMDR helps individuals process trauma by using bilateral stimulation, such as side-to-side eye movements, while recalling the painful, personal details of distressing events.

The exposure allows the brain to reprocess the memory without the same emotional charge. EMDR is effective, but it can also be intense and overwhelming. Some individuals experience emotional flooding during sessions, especially in early phases.

What is the Flash Technique?

Flash is a gentler, safer, more trauma-informed method.

Instead of focusing directly on the traumatic memory, individuals are asked to think of something neutral or positive while the memory stays in the background. They only “flash” briefly to the troubling image without fully engaging with it. This approach tends to reduce emotional distress quickly and comfortably.

What Flash Technique research says

A study published by the National Institutes of Health found that both EMDR and Flash significantly reduced trauma symptoms.

The difference was in the experience.

Clients using Flash reported less distress during sessions. That means they got similar results without being overwhelmed.

This is important for trauma recovery. We need it to be safe and gentle, not harsh and overwhelming.

With trauma, if there’s additional pain, there’s no gain because your brain can’t heal when it’s overwhelmed.

Recalling traumatic events pours gasoline on a brain that is already on fire. We need to be kind and gentle and find ways to calm and cool down your brain, like EMDR Flash

Why client comfort matters

Trauma therapy doesn’t have to be hard work. If it causes more trauma, the brain will stay stuck.

Pain = No Gain.

Some individuals drop out of traditional EMDR when sessions feel too intense. Flash Technique offers a way to reduce trauma symptoms without triggering emotional shutdown.

For those who feel stuck or scared AF to revisit the past, EMDR Flash Technique is a safer place to start.

Be Kind to Your Brain

Both EMDR and Flash are supported by research. If you’ve tried or heard about EMDR and think it is too much, Flash Technique is a easier pathway.

What matters most is finding a method that helps you and your brain feel safe enough to cool down and heal.

Let’s connect.