Attachment-Informed EMDR
What is AI-EMDR?
Attachment-Focused Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (AF-EMDR) is a specialized form of EMDR therapy that helps individuals heal from past attachment wounds, relational trauma, and early negative experiences. It was developed by Dr. Laurel Parnell and integrates EMDR’s core principles with an emphasis on repairing attachment injuries and building internal resources for emotional regulation and self-worth.
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While traditional EMDR focuses on reprocessing distressing memories, AF-EMDR prioritises safety, connection, and resourcing before addressing trauma directly. This approach is especially beneficial for individuals who have experienced childhood neglect, abuse, or inconsistent caregiving, which can impact emotional well-being and relationships in adulthood.
Key Features of AI-EMDR
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Stronger Emphasis on Resourcing
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Before processing trauma, clients develop internal resources (e.g., nurturing figures, protective imagery, or grounding techniques) to create a sense of safety and stability.
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Therapeutic Relationship as a Secure Base
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The therapist provides a warm, attuned presence, helping clients experience a secure connection—especially important for those with attachment wounds.
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Modified Bilateral Stimulation
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Unlike traditional EMDR, which often uses rapid eye movements, AF-EMDR may use tapping or slower bilateral movements to avoid overwhelming clients with early relational trauma.
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Repairing Early Attachment Wounds
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Focuses on core negative beliefs (e.g., "I am unlovable") and helps clients reprocess painful early experiences that shaped their self-perception and relationships.
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Integrating Parts Work
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Addresses different "parts" of the self, helping clients understand and integrate wounded, protective, or adaptive aspects of their personality.
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Benefits of AI-EMDR
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Heals Early Relational Trauma – Helps resolve attachment wounds from childhood, allowing for healthier relationships.
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Strengthens Emotional Regulation – Develops coping skills and internal resources to manage distress more effectively.
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Builds a Positive Sense of Self – Reframes negative self-beliefs into healthier, more empowering perspectives.
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Supports Secure Attachment – Encourages feelings of safety, connection, and trust in relationships.
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Reduces PTSD & Anxiety Symptoms – Helps reprocess distressing memories in a way that decreases emotional reactivity.
Who can benefit from of AI-EMDR?
Anyone can benefit from the incredible healing of AI-EMDR, but particularly:
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Individuals with attachment wounds or relational trauma
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Those struggling with self-worth, trust issues, or abandonment fears
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Clients with complex PTSD, childhood neglect, or abuse histories
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Anyone who has tried traditional EMDR but found it overwhelming,