ASSYST Groups
What is ASSYST?
ASSYST (Acute Stress Syndrome Stabilization) is a brief, evidence-based protocol designed to help the brain and body process and release the effects of acute stress, trauma, or distressing experiences.
It’s a non-invasive, structured intervention derived from EMDR principles that uses bilateral stimulation (a gentle back-and-forth focus) to help the nervous system naturally reset and restore balance after overwhelming events.
Unlike traditional talk therapy, ASSYST does not require participants to share the details of their experience. Instead, it works directly with how the brain stores and resolves distress—allowing for relief and healing without re-traumatization.
Acute Stress Symptoms
After a distressing or traumatic event, the brain and body can become “stuck” in survival mode. This response—known as acute stress—is the body’s natural reaction to threat or overwhelm. For some, these reactions fade with time; for others, they linger and interfere with daily life.
Common symptoms may include:
Feeling on edge, jumpy, or hyper-alert
Difficulty sleeping or relaxing
Flashbacks, vivid images, or intrusive thoughts about the event
Emotional numbness or detachment
Irritability, anger, or mood swings
Trouble concentrating or remembering details
Physical symptoms like rapid heartbeat, muscle tension, or stomach upset
ASSYST helps the nervous system move out of this heightened stress state and back into balance—allowing the mind and body to release the “stuck” stress response and return to a sense of safety and calm.
Benefits of ASSYST
Provides rapid symptom relief for individuals affected by recent or ongoing stressful events.
Helps reduce emotional intensity, intrusive memories, anxiety, and physiological activation.
Can be used as an early intervention following exposure to trauma or critical incidents.
Facilitates nervous system regulation and helps restore a sense of safety and calm.
Conducted in a group format, participants benefit from shared support while still engaging in their own private healing process.
FAQs
-
In a 1-hour guided group session, participants are led through a structured process
designed to help the brain reprocess distress and return to balance. The protocol is
gentle, confidential, and empowering—you remain in full control throughout.
-
ASSYST is based on EMDR principles but is shorter, more focused, and designed for group
or early-intervention use. EMDR therapy is a comprehensive, one-on-one treatment for
processing trauma at a deeper level, while ASSYST helps reduce acute distress quickly and can
be a powerful first step toward stabilization and recovery.
-
About one hour. You’ll follow simple steps led by a trained therapist in a calm, supportive
environment.
-
No. The process works privately — you do not have to speak about your experience.
-
Most people leave feeling lighter, calmer, and more centered, with a greater sense of relief and
balance.
“Although the world is full of suffering, it is also full of the overcoming of it..”
HELEN KELLER
Let’s Get Started!
Contact us today for more information on EMDR Consultations, EMDR Intensives, and ASSYST Groups!