A Reconnection Protocol for Grief: When the Love Lives on

Drawing on the adaptive information processing model, symptoms of prolonged grief can be seen as the result of dysfunctionally held information. A griever can become consumed by the pain and unable to access existing positive memory networks of the loved one. This paper details the first known scripted eye movement desensitization and reprocessing resource development installation (RDI) protocol for reconnecting to a lost loved one. This RDI protocol aims to help the griever proactively access positive memories of their loved one, which can facilitate an ongoing healthy emotional connection, providing attachment, security, and safety. Case examples are described.