Phase 2 involves targeting various unresolved memories for processing work. It does not seem that every negative memory needs to be resolved in order to live an abundant and satisfying life, but for many people, resolving at least 10 to 20 key memories may greatly enhance their quality of life. It is also recommendable to continue reconsolidating unresolved memories as an ongoing practice to continue growing in our ability to lead mature and loving lives.
Phase 2 Goals and Objectives
- Phase 2 is about updating old stories, strategies and states. It involves increasing curiosity, self compassion, and mobilizing innate healing processes in the brain.
- Continue practicing State Shifting, Attention Shifting, and Grounding Skills as needed.
- Continue to sharpen and develop and individualize your own key routines.
- Learn and practice Attention Shifting Skills
- Orientation to theory of memory reconsolidation. Assess client interest in processing memories and make plan accordingly.
- Address any client concerns, fears, needs, etc.
- Identify the most appropriate approach or combination of approaches for memory processing work. (See the Approaches That Influence My Work post for additional insight.)
- Begin memory reconsolidation work either moving chronologically through the visual timeline or beginning with simpler or more strategic memories and proceeding from there.
- For clients with high levels of dissociation or complex trauma, this phase may be slower, more carefully planned, and/or worked in collaboration with an additional professional who is expert in somatic processing approaches.
- Continue to experiment with additional processing modalities and discern which works best.
- Identify and address concerns or internal blocks that may impede adaptive processing work.
- Review if additional sessions are recommended to process the relevant experiences and reduce or resolve the associated triggering.
- Review client’s original goals and concerns to assess what progress is being made.
- Retake relevant assessments to track progress (DASS 21, etc.).
(Once Phase 2 goals are adequately accomplished we can proceed to Phase 3)