A Role for EMDR in the Treatment of Trauma in Patients Suffering From a Psychosis: Four Vignettes

Patients with a functional psychosis are likely to have a history of trauma and symptoms of PTSD, or traumatized by their psychotic symptoms.

Article Abstract

“Many patients with a functional psychosis are likely to have a history of trauma and symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD); some may be traumatized by their psychotic symptoms. We present a series of vignettes to describe eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) treatment of 4 patients suffering from a functional psychotic illness who had a significant history of trauma. After receiving EMDR, each patient showed an improvement in their PTSD symptoms and reported an improvement in the quality of their lives. Follow-up at 3–6 years indicated that the treatment effects were maintained, with changes evident in elimination of trauma-related delusions, reduction in anxiety and depression, fewer hospital admissions, and overall improved quality of life. Because a history of trauma and PTSD symptoms are more frequent in patients with a psychosis, and trauma may be an etiological component of psychosis, EMDR treatment needs to be researched and explored as a treatment opportunity.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Laugharne, R., Marshall, D., Laugharne, J., & Hassard, A. (2014). A Role for EMDR in the Treatment of Trauma in Patients Suffering From a Psychosis: Four Vignettes. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 8(1), 19–24. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.8.1.19

About the Journal

The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is a peer-reviewed publication devoted to integrative, state-of-the-art papers about Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing. It is a broadly conceived interdisciplinary journal that stimulates and communicates research and theory about EMDR, and their application to clinical practice. The Journal of EMDR Practice and Research is the Official Publication of the EMDR International Association.