EMDR therapy with people with intellectual disabilities
This chapter explores the potential of EMDR in people with intellectual disabilities, highlighting its adaptability and effectiveness in addressing trauma-related symptoms.
Chapter Abstract
“Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy has emerged as a promising treatment modality for people with intellectual disability (PwID) who have experienced trauma. This chapter explores the potential of EMDR in this population, highlighting its adaptability and effectiveness in addressing trauma-related symptoms. The review examines existing research, case studies, and clinical observations that demonstrate the feasibility of implementing EMDR with individuals having intellectual disability. Evidence suggests that the adaptive information processing (AIP) model and EMDR’s distinctive approach to facilitating bilateral stimulation can effectively alleviate distressing emotions and traumatic memories in this population. Tailored adaptations and modifications in EMDR protocols ensure its suitability and safety for PwID, enabling them to engage in the therapeutic process and achieve meaningful therapeutic outcomes.”
—Description from publisher
Chapter Access
Purchase/Subscription Required
Clifford, C., Willott, S., & Willner, P. (2025). EMDR therapy with people with intellectual disabilities. In D. P. Farrell, S. J. Schubert, & M. D. Kiernan (Eds.), The Oxford Handbook of EMDR therapy. Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780192898357.013.19
Book Information
About the Book
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—Description from publisher
—Description from publisher
Date
May 22, 2025
Creator(s)
Clair Clifford, Sara Willott, Paul Willner
Topics
Complex Trauma/C-PTSD, PTSD
Client Population
Disabilities
Practice & Methods
AIP
Publisher
Oxford University Press
Rights
Copyright © Oxford University Press 2025
APA Citation
Clifford, C., Willott, S., & Willner, P. (2025). EMDR therapy with people with intellectual disabilities. In D. P. Farrell, S. J. Schubert, & M. D. Kiernan (Eds.), The Oxford Handbook of EMDR therapy. Oxford University Press. https://doi.org/10.1093/oxfordhb/9780192898357.013.19
Audience
EMDR Therapists
Language
English
Content Type
Chapter
Access Type
External Resource
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