How to use Constructive Avoidance in EMDR Therapy
- Dana Carretta-Stein
- Aug 5, 2020
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 11
Constructive Avoidance is a technique developed by Jim Knipe in his book, EMDR Toolbox. (Same person who created the CIPOS method, which I described in a previous post)
It's different from targetting emotional avoidance in EMDR therapy. With constructive avoidance, you're able to use avoidance intentionally to improve the efficacy of reprocessing during Phase IV.
Constructive Avoidance is helpful for :
Complex Trauma
Ego state interventions
Working on a present day issue and needing to isolate the adult self
if a client is looping in their processing
Watch the video about for more information on how to use this helpful protocol in EMDR Therapy.
Essential Tools for Confident & Effective EMDR Therapy
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About the Author
Dana Carretta-Stein is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and founder of Peaceful Living Mental Health Counseling, PLLC, and Carretta Consulting in Scarsdale, NY. She specializes in clinical psychotherapy to treat children, adolescentsand adults with anxiety, behavior and trauma difficulties.
She is a certified EMDR therapist and EMDRIA Approved Consultant. Dana is also a business marketing coach for wellness practitioners who are looking to build and grow their private practice.