An open access journal
The Effectiveness of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) Therapy for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Abstract
Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has emerged as a prominent intervention for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), utilizing bilateral stimulation to facilitate the processing and integration of traumatic memories. This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluates the efficacy of EMDR therapy in reducing PTSD symptoms and improving overall functioning in individuals with PTSD. Through an extensive literature review, the meta-analysis synthesizes effect sizes from RCTs assessing the effectiveness of EMDR therapy compared to control conditions (e.g., waitlist, other psychotherapies) in targeting symptoms of PTSD, including intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, negative alterations in cognitions and mood, and hyperarousal. Additionally, it examines potential moderators of treatment outcomes, such as treatment duration, therapist experience, presence of comorbid conditions, and participant characteristics (e.g., trauma type, time since trauma), to better understand the factors influencing the effectiveness of EMDR therapy for PTSD.
Share and Cite
Article Metrics
References
- Shapiro, F. (2001). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing: Basic principles, protocols, and procedures. Guilford Press.
- van der Kolk, B. A., et al. (2007). A randomized clinical trial of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR), fluoxetine, and pill placebo in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder: Treatment effects and long-term maintenance. Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 68(1), 37-46.
- Lee, C. W., et al. (2002). Treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder: A comparison of stress inoculation training with prolonged exposure and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing. Journal of Clinical Psychology, 58(9), 1071-1089.
- Rothbaum, B. O., et al. (2005). A randomized, double-blind evaluation of d-cycloserine or alprazolam combined with virtual reality exposure therapy for posttraumatic stress disorder in Iraq and Afghanistan War veterans. The American Journal of Psychiatry, 163(12), 2188-2198.
- Marcus, S. V., et al. (2004). A pilot study of the use of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for patients with psychosis. Journal of Trauma & Dissociation, 5(2), 109-127.
- Högberg, G., et al. (2007). On treatment with eye movement desensitization and reprocessing of chronic post-traumatic stress disorder in public transportation workers—a randomized controlled study. Nordic Journal of Psychiatry, 61(1), 54-61.