An Effective Intervention for Substance Use Disorders
The DeTUR protocol is an effective intervention for Substance Use Disorders (SUD). DeTUR is based on standard EMDR therapy and is one aspect of the larger treatment plan. The DeTUR protocol is often used if substance misuse gets in the way of exploring or identifying a trauma history (either the patient can’t recall any trauma or a reduction in substance use symptoms needs to be first addressed).
In other cases, DeTUR is used at the end of treatment to address any lingering urges to use. This protocol works to desensitize triggers and urges to use. In addition, through sets of bilateral stimulation, positive treatment goals are identified and strengthened. During this process, past traumas that are linked to the SUD emerge. When this happens, standard EMDR therapy is used seamlessly to resolve the trauma. Like standard EMDR therapy, DeTUR is noninvasive and feels empowering for the client.
Another way to think about this process is to picture electrical wires in a house. DeTUR works to clip the wires that connect the stimulus to the maladaptive response (substance use). Next, the electrical wiring from the stimulus is reconnected or rewired with a positive state. Therefore, the trigger of driving by the liquor store goes from the urge to drink to one that is positive, such as the feeling of having good energy and focus.
If you would like to learn more about the DeTUR protocol, contact us for more information. If you would like to learn more about EMDR Therapy for men, read more here, or take a peek at our related blog below.
