A patient is asked to concentrate on the thoughts that most upset her.At the same time,she is asked to watch a moving pencil.The patient is probably being treated with

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The technique described in the question is eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). This therapy involves the patient focusing on a distressing memory or thought while tracking the movement of an object, such as a moving pencil or therapist's fingers. The theory is that the eye movements facilitate the processing of the distressing memory, leading to the reduction of associated symptoms. Insights-distraction therapy and therapeutic hypnosis may involve similar techniques, but the use of eye movements specifically points to EMDR as the most likely option. Encounter group therapy is a group therapy approach that involves participants sharing personal experiences and receiving support and feedback from others in the group, making it an unrelated option.

A Patient Is Asked to Concentrate on the Thoughts That