EMDR for eating disorders and body schema disorder: An update

This chapter discusses EMDR therapy for eating disorders, underlying theory and a narrative case study.

About the Chapter

“Eye Movement Desensitisation and Reprocessing (EMDR) is emerging as a complementary therapy for eating disorders (EDs) and body image disorders, which are often interrelated. Initially developed for post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), EMDR has shown promising results in addressing trauma and cognitive distortions associated with these disorders. Recent studies suggest that EMDR may reduce symptom severity, improve body acceptance, and decrease anxiety related to body image. For this reason, a narrative case study has been included in this chapter. The EMDR protocol targets traumatic memories and negative beliefs, facilitating an adaptive reframing of distorted experiences. This chapter explains the theoretical basis of EMDR, its role in overcoming trauma, including relational trauma, and its application in treating EDs and body image disorders. Furthermore, research findings, critical limitations, and future applications are discussed. The integration of EMDR with traditional therapies has demonstrated synergistic potential, accelerating recovery and reducing the risk of relapse. Although further research is needed to validate these preliminary findings and the scientific literature remains limited, EMDR appears to be a promising and complementary approach in the treatment of complex and often therapy-resistant conditions.”

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Chapter Access

Open Access

Durbano, F., Marchesi, B., & Irtelli, F. (2025). EMDR for eating disorders and body schema disorder: An update. In F. Druban, F. Irtelli, & B Marchesi (Eds.), Psychotherapy – New trends and developments [working title]. Intech Open. DOI: 10.5772/intechopen.1009280. https://www.intechopen.com/online-first/1218145

—Description from publisher