According to Dr. Philip Manfield, the original creator of the "Flash" technique (which has since been renamed Predictive Processing to better emphasize the cognitive science behind the therapy) Predictive Processing  is a recently developed evidence-based therapeutic intervention for reducing the disturbance associated with traumatic or other distressing memories.

​

The term Predictive Processing in this context refers to a brief, non-intense exposure to a traumatic memory. Unlike many conventional trauma therapy interventions, it is a minimally intrusive option that does not require the client to consciously engage with the traumatic memory. This allows the client to process traumatic memories without feeling distress. As an adjunct to the EMDR preparation phase or any exposure-based treatment, it makes it possible to process memories that would otherwise be intolerable or overwhelming to the client. 

 

The streamlined version of Predictive Processing is an adaptation created by Thomas Zimmerman (originally known as 4-Blinks), is designed to be used in the same way but simplified for both the therapist and the client to utilize.