Chapter 15 – Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR)

This chapter explores the pathophysiology of PTSD, focusing on its underlying mechanisms, associated risk factors, and high-risk populations. EMDR therapy, among other interventions, is reviewed for its effectiveness in symptom management.

Chapter Abstract

“This chapter gives a striking account of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) as a treatment option for psychological treatment. Its primary use is for the treatment of trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), but also used to help clients with a wide variety of other problems, such as phobias, anxiety, and performance difficulties. EMDR assumes that most problems arise from faulty learning. In EMDR, however, the concept of learning is defined very broadly. Learning is viewed as a process that is not only cognitive, but sensory, affective, and physiological as well. This more holistic view of learning and information processing is one of the factors that distinguish EMDR from many other therapies. Another factor that differentiates EMDR from other approaches is its emphasis on the positive as well as the negative. EMDR is designed to target change on multiple levels: cognitive, emotional, and physical. EMDR is a therapeutic modality that follows the basic principles of many therapies, including the importance of establishing a good relationship with the client, taking a thorough history, and developing agreed-upon goals. Like many other therapies, EMDR assumes that most problems are based on faulty or painful learning. It differs, however, in the holistic view of learning, the provision of unique, alternating stimulation, and the way it seeks to incorporate these features into the treatment approach.”

—Description from publisher

Chapter Access

Purchase Required

Zangwill, W. M., Pearson, J., & Kosminsky, P. (2002). Chapter 15 – Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). In S. Shannon (Ed.), Handbook of complementary and alternative therapies in mental health. (pp. 309-330). Elsevier. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-012638281-5/50016-4

ISBN: 978-0-12-638281-5

—Description from publisher