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 anxiety among those that received the intervention.

Conclusion

There is limited evidence that EMDR may be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety compared to no treatment.