EMDR: An Evidence-Based Treatment for Victims of Trauma

Abstract

More than half of the United States population has been affected by psychological trauma. Many individuals who survive traumatic experiences develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and related psychological problems. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is an effective treatment for such disorders. EMDR focuses on reprocessing the dysfunctionally stored memories of the traumatic experience, enabling the client to progress through appropriate stages of affect and insight to reach an adaptive resolution regarding critical issues such as personal responsibility, safety in the present, and the availability of choices in the future. This article describes EMDR, discusses studies of its effectiveness, and concludes with recommendations for trauma-related policy and practice.

Keywords:

• EMDR
• trauma
• traumatic stress
• PTSD
• evidence-based treatment
• child abuse
• crime victims