Flash Technique
Core Mechanism
Attention stays on a positive image while the client briefly glances at the target memory; this is proposed to reduce the memory's charge without fully activating it
Ontology
Same AIP model as EMDR: dysfunctionally stored trauma memories
Therapeutic Voice
"Stay with the peaceful place. You don't need to go anywhere near the memory. When I say 'blink,' give me three quick blinks, then come right back here."
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: pilot and case-series studies only, including Manfield et al.'s (2017) four-case series; no completed RCT yet. The multisite ENHANCE RCT is in progress. Mechanism not yet empirically validated but theoretical proposals published.
Flash Technique was introduced in 2017 and has an emerging but limited evidence base: pilot and case-series studies only, including Manfield et al.'s (2017) four-case series, with no completed RCT: the multisite ENHANCE RCT is still in progress. The proposed mechanism (brief, interrupted exposure combined with positive engagement to reduce traumatic memory disturbance without significant distress) has not been empirically validated. The technique has gained rapid adoption among trauma therapists despite the evidence base being in early development.
Developers and proponents note that the technique emerged from clinical EMDR practice and that research is actively in progress. The ENHANCE RCT is designed to provide more rigorous evidence. They argue that the technique's low-distress profile makes it a valuable option for clients who cannot tolerate standard exposure-based approaches, even while research continues.
Test Yourself
How does Flash differ from EMDR?
Show answer
Client focuses on pleasant memory with brief 'flashes' to target: minimal distress.