Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing Therapy
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy is guided by the Adaptive Information processing model. It was initially developed for the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (Shapiro (2007)). The aim of the intervention is to focus on a traumatic memory while conducting bilateral stimulation of eye movements. It has been associated with a reduction in the negative emotion associated with trauma memories.
Discussion
Hatefi et al. (2019) conducted an RCT examining the effectiveness of 2 sessions of EMDR compared to no treatment. The study did not report on between group effects. The study reported significant within group effects on symptoms of depression among those that received the intervention.
Conclusion
There is limited evidence that EMDR may be effective in reducing symptoms of depression compared to no treatment.