Trauma-informed training as a path to intergroup readiness: A mixed-methods evaluation of EMDR education in a shared society context

This mixed-methods study examined how participation in a shared EMDR training program influenced professional self-efficacy, intergroup openness, and reconciliation readiness among therapists working within a conflict-affected society.

Article Abstract

“Trauma-informed therapies, particularly Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), have demonstrated individual efficacy, yet their broader societal impacts remain underexplored. This mixed-methods study examined how participation in a shared EMDR training program influences professional self-efficacy, intergroup openness, and reconciliation readiness among therapists working within a conflict-affected society. Twenty-four participants completed a post-training questionnaire that included quantitative Likert-scale items and qualitative reflective prompts. Descriptive and exploratory analyses indicated overall positive shifts in perceived professional growth, hope for reconciliation, and cross-group helping capacity, alongside greater variability in reported interpersonal understanding. Exploratory subgroup analyses compared Jewish-Israeli and Arab-Palestinian participants, revealing meaningful but non-significant trends reflecting each group’s distinct sociocultural perspectives. Thematic analysis of qualitative responses identified four main themes: interpersonal connection, experiential learning, hope mixed with skepticism regarding peacebuilding, and suggestions for enhancing intergroup dialogue opportunities. Together, these findings highlight that trauma-informed professional training can simultaneously support clinical development and foster initial steps toward intergroup empathy and social healing. Intentional facilitation of cross-group engagement remains critical to maximize the broader peacebuilding potential of such initiatives, and future research should examine longitudinal and comparative outcomes across diverse program settings.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access 

Segal, D. (2025). Trauma-informed training as a path to intergroup readiness: A mixed-methods evaluation of EMDR education in a shared society context. Frontiers in Psychology, 16, 1618634. Open access: https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2025.1618634