EMDR & Navigating Explicit and Implicit Memories from Early Childhood Development

Memory shapes the very essence of who we become. In the realm of childhood development, understanding the interplay between explicit and implicit memory is essential for EMDR therapists. Join us as we begin to explore the intricate dynamics of these two memory systems and their profound impact on a child's journey to emotional well-being.

Explicit Memory: The Conscious Narrative:

Explicit memory, often likened to a consciously accessible narrative, encompasses the memories we can intentionally recall. During childhood, explicit memory begins to emerge around the age of three, marking the beginning of a child's ability to verbally express and reflect on their experiences. 

Implicit Memory: The Silent Influencer:

Contrastingly, implicit memory operates beneath the surface, influencing behavior, emotions, and responses without conscious awareness. Established early in infancy, implicit memory forms the foundation for emotional regulation, attachment dynamics, and social interactions. Especially when working with clients on lifelong patterns or attachment dynamics the role of implicit memory is crucial in understanding the roots of behavioral patterns and emotional reactions.

The Impact on Trauma:

Childhood trauma, whether explicit or implicit, leaves an enduring imprint on memory. Explicit memories of traumatic events may be consciously recalled, while implicit memories can manifest as physiological responses, emotional triggers, or maladaptive coping mechanisms. As EMDR therapists, we must delicately navigate these memories to foster healing and resilience.

Implicit Memories & Attachment:

Implicit memories heavily influence the establishment of attachment bonds during infancy. A child's felt sense of safety, trust, and emotional regulation is deeply intertwined with implicit memory. This establishes the foundation for how we view the world and our experiences throughout life. Often when we're working with adults and trying to determine how to address negative beliefs that have felt true for a very long time, we end up finding the root of these beliefs are pre-verbal implicit memories. 

EMDR: Illuminating the Path to Implicit Healing:

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a powerful tool for addressing implicit trauma. Though, originally designed to target explicit memories, it has shown remarkable effectiveness in unlocking the implicit layers of trauma stored in the body and the unconscious mind.

At its foundation, EMDR is working to address explicit and implicit information stored in the brain and the body. When we intentionally focus on implicit memories through negative beliefs, felt sense of emotion and time periods as targets we address these implicitly stored memories and emotions at an even deeper level.

Tapping into the Adaptive Information Processing System: 

EMDR operates within the framework of the Adaptive Information Processing (AIP) model, which posits that memories are stored in interconnected networks. Implicit memories, often residing in the sensory and emotional realms, can be fragmented and unprocessed. EMDR's structured protocol aids in linking these fragmented elements, fostering integration and adaptive resolution.

Nurturing a Comprehensive Healing Experience:

By engaging both explicit and implicit memory systems, EMDR provides a holistic approach to healing. Therapists utilizing EMDR create a safe space for exploring implicit memories. The process of reviewing explicit and implicit memories with EMDR while also being present to hold space for our clients to meet their needs in the present is a nurturing and comprehensive healing experience. 

Empowering Resilience and Post-Traumatic Growth:

As therapists witness the transformative impact of EMDR on implicit trauma, the emphasis shifts towards empowering resilience and post-traumatic growth. By acknowledging and addressing implicit trauma we empower our clients to rewrite the script of their experiences, fostering resilience, growth, and a renewed sense of self.