MEMI International

International Multichannel Eye Movement Integration Association

In spite of ample empirical evidence supporting the efficacy of eye movement therapies in desensitizing traumatic memories, these methods have been viewed unfavorably by researchers and policy makers when compared to cognitive and behavioral methods. This has been true in spite of recent revelations from neurological studies showing that simple eye movements decrease fear activations in the amygdala. These findings have stunned the scientific world and finally dampened criticisms of eye movement methods as pseudoscience.

The notion that eye movements were responsible for limbic deactivations was thought implausible, even by proponents of these methods. Instead, loftier theories about bilateral brain hemisphere stimulation and working memory tasks were suggested as possible mechanisms for the down regulation of emotions. Studies are now producing evidence of an Occam’s razor explanation: When fear memories are installed in mice and humans, simple bilateral eye movements are enough to calm an overactive amygdala. To mangle a Clintonian adage: It’s the eye movements pudden-head!

After the first eye movement procedures were invented in 1989, several others were introduced to improve on the originals—each with its own theory of how and why its procedures were believed to be more effective. But one thing has remained constant throughout this evolution; every one of these techniques uses eye movements as the primary change mechanism.

At MEMI International we believe that trauma treatment developments should be guided by the most recent neuroscience. We are confident that research will continue to explicate the remarkable role that eye movements play in healing trauma.

Our Mission

To train and inspire professionals to provide hope and healing to trauma clients quickly, safely and permanently.

Our Vision Statement

To establish MEMI internationally as the preferred eye movement method for trauma resolution.

Our Purpose

To effectively heal trauma and anxiety in all parts of the world through high quality training and certification programs. Additionally, the association fosters the proliferation of best practices among MEMI trained practitioners and the conduct of relevant scientific research. To accomplish these purposes the association:

Assures excellence in MEMI training, mentoring and certification programs, at times in cooperation with other organizations and entities.

Connects its members via virtual and in-person communications and demonstrations.

Holds annual conferences for association members.

Maintains and exhibits a list of members with certification and contact information.

Cooperates with partners in the development and conduct of cutting-edge trauma research.

Our Beliefs

Humans have an innate capacity to heal from trauma.

Traumatic wounds are less about what happened to us and more about what happens in the limbic system because of what happened to us.

Based on recent neuroscience, the focal point for resolving disturbing memories should be the amygdala.

The most efficient and durable path to alleviating human distress is through our sensory systems.

When in a threat environment simple eye movements are enough to deescalate amygdala activations. However . . .

Eye movements to all locations in a person’s visual field are more effective at desensitizing disturbing memories than bilateral eye movements alone.

It’s the eye movements that that desensitize distressing memories—not bilateral brain hemisphere stimulation.

Client safety during treatment is favored over repeated exposures.

The most effective eye movement models are those that are based on Neuro-Linguistic Programming theory and principles.

Top-down approaches to trauma are less effective than bottom-up, sensory-based methods.

Irrational cognitions become more rational spontaneously, as sensory reactions to trauma diminish.

MEMI is the future of trauma treatment