Functioning:

This app facilitates an optimal load of the human brain by displaying a moving object in combination with playing a sound effect. The goal of this is to support the desensitization process step, one of the key components part of the EMDR process.

For the benefit of user convenience, various preferences can be set inside the app with regard to the movement pattern, the color and size of the ball, the background color and the sound effect to be played. It is also possible for some settings to choose for the 'random' option and there are several settings for so-called 'surprise effects'.

Because of the simple user interface of the app, it is also very suitable for children. Furthermore a number of sound effects, as well as the surprise effect of suddenly appearing pictures, will have a positive effect on the imagination of the young user.

Background:

This app is realized in close cooperation with a professional operating in the domain of the mental health care.

The functionality of the app is based on the principle of the much discussed EMDR therapy (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) used for trauma processing under the supervision of a professional. The developers of this app therefore advice to only use this app to support therapy by a certified practitioner.

Besides the treatment of trauma the working area of EMDR is expanding strongly. For example experiments have been started with compulsive behavior, persistent cravings and overpowering itch.
Since the aspect of self practice with these kind of complaints is already a standardized part of the treatment, it is our expectation that a self-help app like this will obtain a reasonable amount of applicability exactly in this area.

This app is offered for the once only symbolic amount of 1 Euro excl. VAT. The revenue will be used for the purpose of (free) updates to adjust the app even better to the needs of the user based on the received feedback.

Usage:

When you start the app, the menu screen is shown. In the top of this screen you can see the menu bar with the options menu, a control panel in the bottom of the screen and a small status bar in the top left. In the status bar you can see the pattern you have selected, the sound effect you have chosen and the current motion speed.

In the control panel buttons are present to start and stop the movement of the ball. In this panel you can also control the speed and a button is present to activate the full-screen mode. From the full-screen mode it is possible to return to the menu screen by touching the screen in an arbitrary position.

Besides English, this app also supports the languages Spanish, French, German and Dutch.