VISUAL BLS · 16
Visual bilateral stimulation, the classical EMDR modality.
Eye movements were the first form of bilateral stimulation studied. This reference covers the patterns, the evidence and delivery online.
DEFINITION
Visual bilateral stimulation is the form of BLS in which the client follows a moving visual target with their eyes while holding a distressing memory in mind. It is the original and most widely studied form of EMDR bilateral stimulation.
What is visual BLS?
The therapist presents a target — historically the therapist's hand or a light bar, now often a screen-rendered dot — moving in a defined pattern. The client tracks the target with their eyes while the therapist times sets in Phase 4.
Common patterns
Horizontal is the default. Vertical, diagonal, circular, infinity (figure-eight), pendulum and smooth random are used to accommodate visual comfort, oculomotor tolerance and clinical situation.
Visual BLS online
A screen-rendered target is functionally equivalent to a physical light bar for the client's oculomotor system. BilateralSync renders the target on the client's device with sub-100 ms sync so therapist adjustments land essentially instantly.
Frequently asked questions
What is visual bilateral stimulation?＋
Visual BLS is the classical form of bilateral stimulation: a target moves left-right (or in another pattern) and the client follows it with their eyes while holding a target memory in mind.
What patterns are used for visual BLS?＋
Horizontal is the standard default. Vertical, diagonal, circular, infinity (figure-eight) and pendulum patterns are also used, chosen based on comfort and clinical situation.
Can visual BLS be delivered online?＋
Yes. A moving target rendered on the client's own screen provides the same visual dual-attention task as an in-room light bar. BilateralSync synchronises the target to the therapist's controls in real time.
Is one visual pattern more effective than another?＋
Studies comparing patterns have not consistently favoured one over another. Pattern is typically chosen based on client comfort, visual tolerance and preference.
Related reading
Bilateral Stimulation
Visual Bilateral Stimulation
Visual bilateral stimulation is the classical BLS modality in EMDR — a moving target the client tracks with their eyes. Learn how it is used and configured.
Bilateral Stimulation
Bilateral Stimulation Patterns
An overview of common bilateral stimulation patterns used in EMDR — horizontal, infinity, circular and pendulum — and when clinicians choose each.
Bilateral Stimulation
Horizontal Eye Movements
Horizontal eye movements are the classical bilateral stimulation modality in EMDR. Learn why they are the default and how to configure them online.
Bilateral Stimulation
The Infinity Pattern
The infinity (lemniscate) pattern moves the visual target along a figure-eight path. Learn why clinicians use it and how it compares to horizontal BLS.
Bilateral Stimulation
The Pendulum Pattern
The pendulum pattern delivers gentle, wave-like bilateral stimulation often used for grounding, resource installation and closure.