Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a psychotherapy approach that has shown effectiveness in treating various forms of trauma, including Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD). While research on the specific efficacy of EMDR for CPTSD is still evolving, there is growing evidence to support its use as a treatment option.
Many research studies (more than 30) have been conducted to see if EMDR is an effective treatment for both single and multiple traumas. Some studies have shown that 85%-90% of single trauma victims heal and are no longer diagnosed with PTSD after three 90-minute EMDR sessions.
Another study completed by HMO Kaiser Permanente found that 100% of single-trauma survivors and 77% of multiple trauma victims were no longer diagnosed with PTSD after six 50-minute sessions (Shapiro, 2014).
There has been so much research on using EMDR treatment that it is now recognized by the American Psychiatric Association and the World Health Organization as an effective treatment for trauma.
It is easy to see that EMDR is recognized around the world as an effective treatment for memories that cause people to experience low self-esteem, feelings of powerlessness, and many other traumas related to relational trauma.
Here are some key points regarding EMDR and its application in treating CPTSD:
Targeting Multiple Traumas: CPTSD often involves exposure to multiple traumatic experiences, including childhood abuse, neglect, or ongoing interpersonal trauma. EMDR can address the complex interplay of these traumas by targeting specific memories, emotions, and beliefs associated with each traumatic event.
Addressing Core Beliefs: Individuals with CPTSD often develop negative core beliefs about themselves, others, and the world as a result of repeated trauma and interpersonal betrayal. EMDR can help identify and reprocess these core beliefs, leading to shifts in self-perception and worldview.
Integration of Traumatic Memories: EMDR facilitates the integration of traumatic memories into a coherent narrative, reducing the emotional charge and distress associated with these memories. This process allows individuals to gain a sense of control over their past experiences and reduces the impact of intrusive symptoms.
Dual Attention Stimuli: During EMDR sessions, clients engage in bilateral stimulation, such as following the therapist's finger movements with their eyes or listening to alternating tones through headphones. This dual attention stimuli help desensitize traumatic memories and facilitate adaptive processing.
Enhanced Emotional Regulation: EMDR promotes the development of healthier coping mechanisms and emotional regulation skills. Clients learn to manage distressing emotions, tolerate uncomfortable sensations, and cultivate a greater sense of self-efficacy.
Stabilization Phase: Before engaging in trauma processing, EMDR typically involves a stabilization phase to ensure clients have adequate coping skills and resources to manage distress. This phase focuses on building safety, resilience, and grounding techniques.
Integration and Closure: EMDR sessions conclude with a focus on integration and closure, allowing clients to reflect on their experiences, process insights gained during therapy, and consolidate therapeutic gains.
Evidence-Based Practice: While further research is needed, existing studies suggest that EMDR can be an effective treatment for CPTSD symptoms, including intrusive memories, emotional dysregulation, dissociation, and negative self-beliefs.
It's important to note that EMDR may not be suitable for everyone with CPTSD, and individual factors, such as readiness for trauma processing and therapist-client fit, should be considered. Additionally, EMDR is often integrated into a comprehensive treatment plan that may include other therapeutic modalities, such as internal family systems (IFS), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), or somatic therapy.
If you're considering EMDR as a treatment for CPTSD, it's essential to work with a licensed therapist who is trained in EMDR and has experience in treating trauma-related conditions. A skilled therapist can conduct a thorough assessment, develop a tailored treatment plan, and provide ongoing support throughout the therapeutic process.
