Phase 4 Script with Working-Memory Tasks, Based on EMDR 2.0 Research (Free PDF)
Sample clinician prompts for Phase 4 sets informed by EMDR 2.0 research — dual-task rotation, between-sets check-ins, and titration wording for the sweet spot.
Free PDF for EMDR clinicians. Get it by email.
What's in the script
Sample clinician wording for a Phase 4 session that adds working-memory tasks, informed by EMDR 2.0 research — opening frame, dual-task rotation prompts (multi-direction eye movements, arithmetic, auditory tracking), between-sets check-in language, and titration prompts for when vividness drops, dissociation appears, or SUD stays flat. Designed to sit next to the standard EMDR Protocol Script on the desk.
How to use it
Read lightly. The wording is a safety net for your first 5–10 EMDR 2.0 cases; most clinicians drop it as intuition builds. Pair with the Dual-Task Menu so escalation choices are on the desk too.
Related on the EMDR guide
Frequently asked questions
Can I use this without EMDR 2.0 training?
The script assumes formal training. Without it, use the [standard EMDR protocol script](/resources/emdr-protocol-script) instead.
How long should sets be?
EMDR 2.0 sets are typically shorter (20–30s) and higher-load than standard 24–40s BLS sets. Titration guidance is on page 2.
References
- Matthijssen, S. J. M. A., Lee, C. W., de Roos, C., et al. (2020). The current status of EMDR therapy, specific target areas, and goals for the future. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 14(4), 241–284.
- Matthijssen, S. J. M. A., Brouwers, T., van Roozendaal, C., Vuister, T., & de Jongh, A. (2021). The effect of EMDR versus EMDR 2.0 on emotionality and vividness of aversive memories in a non-clinical sample. European Journal of Psychotraumatology, 12(1), 1956793.
- Shapiro, F. (2018). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures (3rd ed.). Guilford Press.