Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing ( Emdr )

998 Words2 Pages

Research Paper Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing Cristie Frey University of Utah Francine Shapiro developed the therapeutic intervention called Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) in 1987. In the ten years prior, Shapiro, a PhD in English Literature, took an interest in behavior therapy and when she was diagnosed with cancer, it was the impetus for her to focus on, “ the interplay of mind and external stressors” (Shapiro, 2001). The foundation of EMDR and its use is firmly committed to the belief that clinicians must be properly trained and supervised in the methods, through programs offered worldwide to increase the rate of success. EMDR has many components and a detailed structure, but in essence the premise insists that individuals early life experiences are integral in the formation of psychopathology. The overarching goal is for clients to convert this dysfunction “from the past and transform it in to something useful” (Shapiro, 2001). Studies have shown that EMDR is an evidence-based practice, effective for the treatment of psychological trauma, specifically Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. EMDR has also shown efficacy in the treatment of other mental health disorders and has been used in substance use treatment, often co-morbid with PTSD. The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) states that people who have been exposed to trauma have higher likelihood of abusing substances. EMDR utilizes and is a catalyst for learning. Memories of disturbing events, images, beliefs and emotions ideally become less prominent and less valid and instead they become associated with information that is more adaptive employing desensitization for the experience and the triggers as... ... middle of paper ... ... continue beyond the session and new feelings may arise. They are advised to notice it and log it for work in the next session. References Begun, A. (2015). Treating Addictions With EMDR Therapy and the Stages of Change , by Nancy J. Abel and John M. O’Brien. Journal Of Social Work Practice In The Addictions, 15(1), 130-131. doi:10.1080/1533256X.2015.996506 Shapiro, F. (2001). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing: Basic Principles, Protocols, and Procedures (2nd ed.). New York, New York: Guilford Press. Shapiro, F. (2012). Getting Past Your Past: Take Control of Your Life with Self-Help Techniques from EMDR Therapy. Emmaus, Pa.: Rodale Books. Comorbidity: Addiction and Other Mental Illnesses. (n.d.). Retrieved December 2, 2015, from https://www.drugabuse.gov/sites/default/files/rrcomorbidity.pdf

Open Document