Flash Technique
Core Mechanism
Brief interrupted exposure with positive memory engagement reprocesses disturbing memories without full activation
Ontology
Same AIP model as EMDR — dysfunctionally stored trauma memories
Therapeutic Voice
"Think of your peaceful place. Keep that in mind while I tap. Let me know if anything shifts."
View of the Person
A processing system that can reprocess disturbing memories without full conscious activation
Evidence
Not listed
1-2 pilot studies
None
Emerging. Used within EMDR framework. Very limited published research. Controlled evidence insufficient.
Conditions
Epistemology
Blind Spots
Extremely new; minimal independent replication; unclear when minimal-activation processing is insufficient
Contraindications
Active psychosis, clients without a positive memory or image to use as a resource, unstable dissociative disorders, situations requiring full trauma narrative processing rather than distress reduction
Training
Flash training workshop (1-2 days). EMDR or trauma processing background recommended
No formal certification; authorized trainers
8-16 hrs
$300-800
Philosophical Roots
Same AIP model as EMDR; reconsolidation theory (Nader, 2000); titration principle from somatic traditions
Related Modalities
Controversies & Ethical Concerns
Emerging evidence base: 1 RCT (Yasar et al., 2022), multiple preliminary studies, ENHANCE RCT in progress. Mechanism not yet empirically validated but theoretical proposals published.
Test Yourself
How does Flash differ from EMDR?
Show answer
Client focuses on pleasant memory with brief 'flashes' to target — minimal distress.