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EMDR Therapy for Addiction Recovery

EMDR therapy can help people in addiction recovery process trauma, reduce distress linked to triggers, and support long-term healing when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Evidence from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs supports EMDR for trauma treatment, making it a valuable option for those with co-occurring trauma and substance use challenges.

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EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery is an important topic for people seeking care that addresses both substance use and the experiences that may be driving it. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is a psychotherapy approach that helps people process distressing memories and trauma-related symptoms. EMDR is recognized by the National Institute of Mental Health and the American Psychological Association as a treatment used for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder.

For many people, addiction and trauma are closely connected. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration notes that trauma can play a significant role in mental health and substance use challenges, which is why trauma-informed care can be a valuable part of treatment. In an addiction treatment setting, EMDR may be used as part of a broader clinical plan to help reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories, improve coping, and support long-term recovery when it is clinically appropriate.

This page explains EMDR therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery, including what it is, who it may help, and how it can fit into a comprehensive treatment program. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use and unresolved trauma, reaching out for an assessment can be a meaningful next step toward safe, personalized care.

Key Facts About EMDR Therapy for Addiction Recovery

What EMDR therapy can help with

EMDR therapy is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy that helps the brain process distressing memories so they feel less overwhelming. In addiction recovery, EMDR therapy is often used to address trauma, PTSD symptoms, triggers, cravings, and relapse-related distress.

Who may benefit most

  • People with trauma histories or unresolved adverse experiences
  • People with PTSD symptoms linked to substance use
  • People whose cravings or relapse risk rise after painful memories or stress

How EMDR fits into treatment

EMDR therapy is not a standalone cure for substance use disorder. It is usually part of a broader treatment plan that may include therapy, medication, recovery support, and relapse prevention.

When to get assessed first

EMDR should be provided by a trained clinician within the right level of care. If substance use, trauma symptoms, or safety concerns are severe, a professional assessment should happen first to see if EMDR is a good fit now.

What EMDR Therapy Is

EMDR is a structured psychotherapy for trauma.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that helps people process distressing memories. It was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro and is now widely used in mental health care, especially for trauma and PTSD.

EMDR is part of trauma-informed care, not general talk therapy.

In trauma-informed care, EMDR helps clinicians address how past trauma may affect current thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Unlike general talk therapy, EMDR does not rely mainly on long verbal discussion. It uses a structured method to help the brain reprocess stuck or painful memories.

EMDR matters in addiction treatment when trauma is present.

SAMHSA notes that trauma can strongly affect mental health and substance use. In addiction treatment, EMDR may be included when a person has trauma symptoms that are linked to substance use, cravings, or relapse risk. This makes EMDR therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery an important topic in trauma-informed treatment planning.

Find the Right
Addiction Treatment Program

If you or a loved one are ready to seek treatment for drug or alcohol addiction, call (844) 967-4542 today for free, confidential support.

If you or a loved one are ready to seek treatment for drug or alcohol addiction, call today for free, confidential support.

How EMDR Therapy Works

EMDR follows a clear, step-by-step process to help the brain reprocess distressing memories.

During EMDR therapy, a clinician first builds coping skills, then identifies traumatic memories, body sensations, beliefs, and present-day triggers linked to substance use. Treatment moves through preparation, memory targeting, reprocessing, and review.

Bilateral stimulation helps the brain stay grounded while facing painful material.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, taps, or tones, while the person briefly focuses on a distressing memory. This structured method is part of the standard EMDR protocol described by the American Psychological Association.

Memory reprocessing can lower emotional intensity and reduce relapse risk.

  • Traumatic memories can drive cravings, avoidance, and relapse patterns when reminders feel unsafe or overwhelming.
  • Memory reprocessing helps those memories feel less vivid, less urgent, and less emotionally charged over time.
  • As distress drops, people may react less strongly to triggers tied to substance use, which can support recovery.

This trauma-addiction link is recognized by NIDA and SAMHSA.

Who EMDR Therapy May Help in Addiction Recovery

EMDR therapy may help when trauma-related substance use is part of the picture.

PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use often happen together. Research from SAMHSA shows trauma can raise the risk of alcohol or drug misuse and make recovery harder.

  • Using substances to numb fear, shame, panic, or painful memories
  • Strong triggers tied to people, places, conflict, or body sensations
  • Nightmares, flashbacks, sleep problems, or feeling constantly on edge
  • Avoidance, emotional shutdown, anger, guilt, or sudden mood swings

EMDR may be considered when trauma symptoms keep fueling relapse or distress.

It may fit people with co-occurring disorders, especially trauma plus addiction, anxiety, or depression. A full clinical screening should happen first to confirm safety, stability, and treatment timing.

  • Recent self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or severe instability
  • Active psychosis, mania, or major dissociation
  • Uncontrolled withdrawal, heavy intoxication, or unsafe housing
  • Medical or mental health issues that need stabilization first

What the Evidence Says About EMDR for Addiction Recovery

Research evidence

PTSD treatment guidelines support EMDR therapy for trauma symptoms. Research on EMDR therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery is more limited, but early studies suggest it may help reduce trauma distress that can drive substance use. Reviews note possible gains in craving, relapse risk, and emotional control when EMDR is added to addiction care.

What clinical consensus says

  • SAMHSA supports integrated treatment for co-occurring trauma and addiction.
  • Clinical consensus views EMDR as an adjunctive therapy, not a stand-alone fix for substance use disorders.
  • EMDR is often combined with detox, medication, counseling, relapse prevention, and mental health care.

Limits of the evidence

The evidence base for substance use outcomes is still growing. Many studies are small, use different methods, or focus more on trauma symptoms than long-term abstinence. More high-quality trials are needed to confirm who benefits most, when to start EMDR, and how to blend it into full addiction treatment.

How EMDR Fits Into an Addiction Treatment Plan

EMDR works best as part of a full addiction treatment plan.

SAMHSA and the EMDR International Association note that trauma treatment should be matched to a person’s safety, stability, and stage of recovery. EMDR therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery depends on timing, support, and close clinical review.

Where EMDR may fit in care

  • Detox: focus stays on withdrawal, sleep, and safety. EMDR is often delayed until symptoms are more stable.
  • Residential treatment: EMDR may begin when cravings, mood, and daily functioning improve.
  • Partial hospitalization program, intensive outpatient program, and outpatient therapy: EMDR may continue with regular check-ins and coping skills practice.

What guides readiness

Assessment helps the team decide if EMDR is appropriate. Clinicians look at substance use, trauma symptoms, relapse risk, dissociation, medical needs, and psychiatric care. This staged approach is supported in trauma care guidance from VA PTSD resources.

How EMDR connects with other treatment

  • Relapse prevention: helps target triggers linked to trauma memories.
  • Counseling: builds grounding, emotion control, and safer behavior patterns.
  • Psychiatric care: supports medication, sleep, anxiety, depression, or PTSD needs.

A multidisciplinary plan may be needed because recovery often involves mental health, medical care, and substance use treatment at the same time.

Next Steps for Starting EMDR Therapy at Denver Recovery Center

Request an assessment

Start with a confidential assessment request at Denver Recovery Center. A clinical assessment and intake usually review substance use, trauma history, mental health symptoms, safety risks, medical needs, and past treatment, which aligns with guidance from SAMHSA.

Ask about EMDR and addiction expertise

  • Is care provided by a trained EMDR clinician?
  • What trauma and addiction expertise does the team have?
  • How do you decide when EMDR is safe and appropriate?
  • How is EMDR combined with addiction treatment and relapse prevention?

Know what to expect after intake

After intake, the team builds a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, goals, and readiness for trauma work. Safe trauma treatment should be paced and matched to the person, as outlined by the EMDR International Association and SAMHSA trauma guidance.

Get immediate help if symptoms are escalating

Seek immediate help if substance use is getting harder to control, withdrawal risk is rising, or mental health symptoms are rapidly worsening. In those cases, ask for urgent guidance on the safest next level of care before starting EMDR therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is a psychotherapy approach designed to help people process distressing memories and reduce the impact of trauma-related symptoms. It is best known for treating post-traumatic stress disorder and may also be used as part of a broader treatment plan when trauma is contributing to substance use. Research and clinical guidance show that trauma and substance use disorders commonly occur together, which is why trauma-informed care can play an important role in recovery for some people. NIMH SAMHSA

In addiction treatment, EMDR therapy is typically used alongside evidence-based services such as individual counseling, group therapy, relapse prevention, and, when appropriate, medication treatment. If you are considering treatment, an admissions team can help determine whether EMDR fits your needs, current stability, and level of care.

It can for some people. Trauma exposure is linked with a higher risk of substance use problems, and treating unresolved trauma may help reduce emotional triggers that contribute to cravings, avoidance, or relapse. EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment for trauma symptoms, especially PTSD, when provided by a trained clinician. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs NIDA

That said, EMDR is not a stand-alone cure for addiction. A thorough assessment is important to decide when trauma therapy should begin and what other supports are needed for safe, effective recovery.

EMDR can be safe and beneficial when it is delivered by a qualified clinician and integrated into a treatment plan that matches the person’s current needs. Because trauma work can be emotionally activating, providers usually assess factors such as withdrawal risk, psychiatric stability, recent substance use, and coping skills before starting. Trauma-informed treatment planning is recommended in behavioral health settings to support safety and readiness. SAMHSA

If you are entering rehab, ask whether the program offers trauma screening, psychiatric support, and a phased approach to treatment. In many cases, building stabilization skills first can make EMDR more effective later.

EMDR may be a good fit for people whose substance use is connected to trauma, distressing memories, anxiety, or PTSD symptoms. A licensed clinician will usually look at your mental health history, substance use pattern, current sobriety or withdrawal status, and ability to manage strong emotions during treatment. PTSD often co-occurs with substance use disorders, so screening for both conditions is an important part of care. NIMH SAMHSA

If you are unsure whether EMDR is right for you, the next practical step is an assessment. An admissions or clinical team can explain whether you may benefit from detox, residential treatment, outpatient care, or trauma-focused therapy as part of your program.

EMDR is generally delivered in phases. Treatment usually begins with history-taking, preparation, and coping skills, then moves into processing distressing memories using structured bilateral stimulation such as guided eye movements, taps, or tones. The goal is to reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories and help the brain process them in a healthier way. Major medical and government sources describe EMDR as a structured therapy used by trained professionals for trauma-related symptoms. Cleveland Clinic American Psychological Association

Before starting, ask how sessions are paced, how your therapist handles distress during treatment, and how EMDR is coordinated with relapse prevention and other recovery services.

Coverage varies by plan, provider network, diagnosis, and level of care. In some cases, EMDR may be covered when it is part of a medically necessary behavioral health treatment plan, but benefits differ widely. Federal guidance explains that mental health and substance use disorder benefits are generally subject to plan-specific terms and parity protections. CMS

A practical first step is to verify your insurance before admission. You can ask whether the facility is in network, whether trauma therapy is included in your level of care, and what out-of-pocket costs to expect.

Start with a professional assessment. A rehab or behavioral health provider can review your substance use history, trauma symptoms, mental health needs, medical concerns, and recovery goals to decide whether EMDR should be included in your care plan. Screening and assessment are core parts of quality substance use treatment, and treatment should be individualized to the person. SAMHSA NIDA

When you contact admissions, be ready to discuss your current substance use, any trauma history, past treatment, medications, and insurance information. This can help the team recommend the safest and most appropriate next step.

You are here:

EMDR Therapy for Addiction Recovery

EMDR therapy can help people in addiction recovery process trauma, reduce distress linked to triggers, and support long-term healing when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan. Evidence from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs supports EMDR for trauma treatment, making it a valuable option for those with co-occurring trauma and substance use challenges.

Jump to Section

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery is an important topic for people seeking care that addresses both substance use and the experiences that may be driving it. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is a psychotherapy approach that helps people process distressing memories and trauma-related symptoms. EMDR is recognized by the National Institute of Mental Health and the American Psychological Association as a treatment used for trauma and post-traumatic stress disorder.

For many people, addiction and trauma are closely connected. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration notes that trauma can play a significant role in mental health and substance use challenges, which is why trauma-informed care can be a valuable part of treatment. In an addiction treatment setting, EMDR may be used as part of a broader clinical plan to help reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories, improve coping, and support long-term recovery when it is clinically appropriate.

This page explains EMDR therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery, including what it is, who it may help, and how it can fit into a comprehensive treatment program. If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use and unresolved trauma, reaching out for an assessment can be a meaningful next step toward safe, personalized care.

Key Facts About EMDR Therapy for Addiction Recovery

What EMDR therapy can help with

EMDR therapy is a structured, evidence-based psychotherapy that helps the brain process distressing memories so they feel less overwhelming. In addiction recovery, EMDR therapy is often used to address trauma, PTSD symptoms, triggers, cravings, and relapse-related distress.

Who may benefit most

  • People with trauma histories or unresolved adverse experiences
  • People with PTSD symptoms linked to substance use
  • People whose cravings or relapse risk rise after painful memories or stress

How EMDR fits into treatment

EMDR therapy is not a standalone cure for substance use disorder. It is usually part of a broader treatment plan that may include therapy, medication, recovery support, and relapse prevention.

When to get assessed first

EMDR should be provided by a trained clinician within the right level of care. If substance use, trauma symptoms, or safety concerns are severe, a professional assessment should happen first to see if EMDR is a good fit now.

What EMDR Therapy Is

EMDR is a structured psychotherapy for trauma.

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a form of psychotherapy that helps people process distressing memories. It was developed in the late 1980s by psychologist Francine Shapiro and is now widely used in mental health care, especially for trauma and PTSD.

EMDR is part of trauma-informed care, not general talk therapy.

In trauma-informed care, EMDR helps clinicians address how past trauma may affect current thoughts, emotions, and behavior. Unlike general talk therapy, EMDR does not rely mainly on long verbal discussion. It uses a structured method to help the brain reprocess stuck or painful memories.

EMDR matters in addiction treatment when trauma is present.

SAMHSA notes that trauma can strongly affect mental health and substance use. In addiction treatment, EMDR may be included when a person has trauma symptoms that are linked to substance use, cravings, or relapse risk. This makes EMDR therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery an important topic in trauma-informed treatment planning.

Find the Right
Addiction Treatment Program

If you or a loved one are ready to seek treatment for drug or alcohol addiction, call (844) 967-4542 today for free, confidential support.

If you or a loved one are ready to seek treatment for drug or alcohol addiction, call today for free, confidential support.

How EMDR Therapy Works

EMDR follows a clear, step-by-step process to help the brain reprocess distressing memories.

During EMDR therapy, a clinician first builds coping skills, then identifies traumatic memories, body sensations, beliefs, and present-day triggers linked to substance use. Treatment moves through preparation, memory targeting, reprocessing, and review.

Bilateral stimulation helps the brain stay grounded while facing painful material.

EMDR uses bilateral stimulation, such as guided eye movements, taps, or tones, while the person briefly focuses on a distressing memory. This structured method is part of the standard EMDR protocol described by the American Psychological Association.

Memory reprocessing can lower emotional intensity and reduce relapse risk.

  • Traumatic memories can drive cravings, avoidance, and relapse patterns when reminders feel unsafe or overwhelming.
  • Memory reprocessing helps those memories feel less vivid, less urgent, and less emotionally charged over time.
  • As distress drops, people may react less strongly to triggers tied to substance use, which can support recovery.

This trauma-addiction link is recognized by NIDA and SAMHSA.

Who EMDR Therapy May Help in Addiction Recovery

EMDR therapy may help when trauma-related substance use is part of the picture.

PTSD, anxiety, depression, and substance use often happen together. Research from SAMHSA shows trauma can raise the risk of alcohol or drug misuse and make recovery harder.

  • Using substances to numb fear, shame, panic, or painful memories
  • Strong triggers tied to people, places, conflict, or body sensations
  • Nightmares, flashbacks, sleep problems, or feeling constantly on edge
  • Avoidance, emotional shutdown, anger, guilt, or sudden mood swings

EMDR may be considered when trauma symptoms keep fueling relapse or distress.

It may fit people with co-occurring disorders, especially trauma plus addiction, anxiety, or depression. A full clinical screening should happen first to confirm safety, stability, and treatment timing.

  • Recent self-harm, suicidal thoughts, or severe instability
  • Active psychosis, mania, or major dissociation
  • Uncontrolled withdrawal, heavy intoxication, or unsafe housing
  • Medical or mental health issues that need stabilization first

What the Evidence Says About EMDR for Addiction Recovery

Research evidence

PTSD treatment guidelines support EMDR therapy for trauma symptoms. Research on EMDR therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery is more limited, but early studies suggest it may help reduce trauma distress that can drive substance use. Reviews note possible gains in craving, relapse risk, and emotional control when EMDR is added to addiction care.

What clinical consensus says

  • SAMHSA supports integrated treatment for co-occurring trauma and addiction.
  • Clinical consensus views EMDR as an adjunctive therapy, not a stand-alone fix for substance use disorders.
  • EMDR is often combined with detox, medication, counseling, relapse prevention, and mental health care.

Limits of the evidence

The evidence base for substance use outcomes is still growing. Many studies are small, use different methods, or focus more on trauma symptoms than long-term abstinence. More high-quality trials are needed to confirm who benefits most, when to start EMDR, and how to blend it into full addiction treatment.

How EMDR Fits Into an Addiction Treatment Plan

EMDR works best as part of a full addiction treatment plan.

SAMHSA and the EMDR International Association note that trauma treatment should be matched to a person’s safety, stability, and stage of recovery. EMDR therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery depends on timing, support, and close clinical review.

Where EMDR may fit in care

  • Detox: focus stays on withdrawal, sleep, and safety. EMDR is often delayed until symptoms are more stable.
  • Residential treatment: EMDR may begin when cravings, mood, and daily functioning improve.
  • Partial hospitalization program, intensive outpatient program, and outpatient therapy: EMDR may continue with regular check-ins and coping skills practice.

What guides readiness

Assessment helps the team decide if EMDR is appropriate. Clinicians look at substance use, trauma symptoms, relapse risk, dissociation, medical needs, and psychiatric care. This staged approach is supported in trauma care guidance from VA PTSD resources.

How EMDR connects with other treatment

  • Relapse prevention: helps target triggers linked to trauma memories.
  • Counseling: builds grounding, emotion control, and safer behavior patterns.
  • Psychiatric care: supports medication, sleep, anxiety, depression, or PTSD needs.

A multidisciplinary plan may be needed because recovery often involves mental health, medical care, and substance use treatment at the same time.

Next Steps for Starting EMDR Therapy at Denver Recovery Center

Request an assessment

Start with a confidential assessment request at Denver Recovery Center. A clinical assessment and intake usually review substance use, trauma history, mental health symptoms, safety risks, medical needs, and past treatment, which aligns with guidance from SAMHSA.

Ask about EMDR and addiction expertise

  • Is care provided by a trained EMDR clinician?
  • What trauma and addiction expertise does the team have?
  • How do you decide when EMDR is safe and appropriate?
  • How is EMDR combined with addiction treatment and relapse prevention?

Know what to expect after intake

After intake, the team builds a personalized treatment plan based on your symptoms, goals, and readiness for trauma work. Safe trauma treatment should be paced and matched to the person, as outlined by the EMDR International Association and SAMHSA trauma guidance.

Get immediate help if symptoms are escalating

Seek immediate help if substance use is getting harder to control, withdrawal risk is rising, or mental health symptoms are rapidly worsening. In those cases, ask for urgent guidance on the safest next level of care before starting EMDR therapy and how it is used as an effective tool for addiction recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, or EMDR, is a psychotherapy approach designed to help people process distressing memories and reduce the impact of trauma-related symptoms. It is best known for treating post-traumatic stress disorder and may also be used as part of a broader treatment plan when trauma is contributing to substance use. Research and clinical guidance show that trauma and substance use disorders commonly occur together, which is why trauma-informed care can play an important role in recovery for some people. NIMH SAMHSA

In addiction treatment, EMDR therapy is typically used alongside evidence-based services such as individual counseling, group therapy, relapse prevention, and, when appropriate, medication treatment. If you are considering treatment, an admissions team can help determine whether EMDR fits your needs, current stability, and level of care.

It can for some people. Trauma exposure is linked with a higher risk of substance use problems, and treating unresolved trauma may help reduce emotional triggers that contribute to cravings, avoidance, or relapse. EMDR is recognized as an effective treatment for trauma symptoms, especially PTSD, when provided by a trained clinician. U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs NIDA

That said, EMDR is not a stand-alone cure for addiction. A thorough assessment is important to decide when trauma therapy should begin and what other supports are needed for safe, effective recovery.

EMDR can be safe and beneficial when it is delivered by a qualified clinician and integrated into a treatment plan that matches the person’s current needs. Because trauma work can be emotionally activating, providers usually assess factors such as withdrawal risk, psychiatric stability, recent substance use, and coping skills before starting. Trauma-informed treatment planning is recommended in behavioral health settings to support safety and readiness. SAMHSA

If you are entering rehab, ask whether the program offers trauma screening, psychiatric support, and a phased approach to treatment. In many cases, building stabilization skills first can make EMDR more effective later.

EMDR may be a good fit for people whose substance use is connected to trauma, distressing memories, anxiety, or PTSD symptoms. A licensed clinician will usually look at your mental health history, substance use pattern, current sobriety or withdrawal status, and ability to manage strong emotions during treatment. PTSD often co-occurs with substance use disorders, so screening for both conditions is an important part of care. NIMH SAMHSA

If you are unsure whether EMDR is right for you, the next practical step is an assessment. An admissions or clinical team can explain whether you may benefit from detox, residential treatment, outpatient care, or trauma-focused therapy as part of your program.

EMDR is generally delivered in phases. Treatment usually begins with history-taking, preparation, and coping skills, then moves into processing distressing memories using structured bilateral stimulation such as guided eye movements, taps, or tones. The goal is to reduce the emotional intensity of traumatic memories and help the brain process them in a healthier way. Major medical and government sources describe EMDR as a structured therapy used by trained professionals for trauma-related symptoms. Cleveland Clinic American Psychological Association

Before starting, ask how sessions are paced, how your therapist handles distress during treatment, and how EMDR is coordinated with relapse prevention and other recovery services.

Coverage varies by plan, provider network, diagnosis, and level of care. In some cases, EMDR may be covered when it is part of a medically necessary behavioral health treatment plan, but benefits differ widely. Federal guidance explains that mental health and substance use disorder benefits are generally subject to plan-specific terms and parity protections. CMS

A practical first step is to verify your insurance before admission. You can ask whether the facility is in network, whether trauma therapy is included in your level of care, and what out-of-pocket costs to expect.

Start with a professional assessment. A rehab or behavioral health provider can review your substance use history, trauma symptoms, mental health needs, medical concerns, and recovery goals to decide whether EMDR should be included in your care plan. Screening and assessment are core parts of quality substance use treatment, and treatment should be individualized to the person. SAMHSA NIDA

When you contact admissions, be ready to discuss your current substance use, any trauma history, past treatment, medications, and insurance information. This can help the team recommend the safest and most appropriate next step.