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2: History Taking: The Time Line

DOI:

10.1891/9780826122384.0002

Authors

  • Hofmann, Arne
  • Luber, Marilyn

Abstract

This chapter serves as a one-stop resource where therapists can access a wide range of word-for-word scripted protocols for Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) practice, including the past, present, and future templates. Client history taking is an important part of well-prepared clinicians’ understanding of their clients. The Time Line Script is based on a number of personal communications with other EMDR clinicians. Start with the best events and ask for the negative events in the session. When all of the memories are gathered, it is helpful to plot them onto a “Positive and Negative Memories Map”. This Map allows for a visual presentation along the time line of the client’s life and offers a window into what the important landmarks of the client’s life were for the clinician and client to see together.