Flash Technique & FlashVR

The Flash Technique

Flash was developed within the EMDR community for memories that feel too big to face. Instead of concentrating on what happened, you hold something positive and absorbing in mind (a place, a song, a person, a plan) while I guide brief sets of bilateral stimulation and occasional quick “flashes” of attention. The memory is only lightly touched. Most people are surprised at how much it settles in one session, and how little they had to say.

FlashVR

FlashVR is the same protocol delivered through a virtual reality headset, using a system I built with clinicians and engineers so the timing, bilateral movement and pacing are exactly consistent every time. You wear the headset in my Concord office, or use one at home for a guided remote session. Inside, you choose a language, answer brief safety and symptom check-ins, pick your positive focus, and then follow a moving light while the protocol runs. I’m present the whole time, and the system hands control back to me the moment anything needs a human.

What a session looks like

1. Check-in. A few short questions about how you’re doing today, including standard PTSD and depression screens.
2. Choose your focus. Something positive, vivid and yours.
3. Processing sets. Bilateral stimulation in rising and falling rounds, with breathing pauses.
4. Re-rate. We check the disturbance level and repeat until it drops, then install a steadier belief and look ahead.

Who it helps

• Memories you can’t talk about yet
• Complex trauma with many events
• People who found EMDR or exposure work too activating
• Nightmares and intrusive images
• Preparing for deeper EMDR or ketamine-assisted work

Good to know

Flash is not hypnosis and you stay fully aware. VR sessions are optional; the technique works without a headset. If you get motion sick easily, tell me and we’ll use the in-room version.