An integrative somatic art therapy approach: EMDR and body-based practices for traumatic stress

An exploration of how somatic art therapy and EMDR therapy impact symptoms of trauma and burnout.

Article Abstract

“This research project used a mixed method, within subject design to explore how trauma-informed somatic art therapy and Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy impacts symptoms of trauma and burnout. There is limited qualitative research on integrating art therapy with EMDR in a group setting. Art therapy can act as a container, or safe holding environment (Winnicott, 1971) for the limitations of EMDR therapy. This research addressed the implications of integrating art therapy and EMDR therapy as a trauma treatment for healthcare professionals. This research study followed the eight phases of EMDR treatment, using a combination of resourcing, a series of artmaking exercises (body mapping, drawing), and self-administered bilateral stimulation (BLS) to process distressing experiences in the context of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Ten Healthcare professionals (HCPs) were recruited for a day-long intensive application of the protocol. Participants completed the PTSD Checklist for DSM-5 (PCL-5; Weathers et al., 2013) and the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI; Kristensen et al., 2005) as a pre and post-test before the treatment protocol, directly after the protocol, and three follow-ups– at one week, one month, and three months after the protocol. Qualitative data included participants’ written journal reflections and focus group transcription. Collectively, 300 art images were created during this day-long process. Quantitative results yielded valuable insights into its therapeutic efficacy for Healthcare Professionals (HCPs) as there was a reduction in post-traumatic stress and burnout symptoms, with statistical significance in the decrease of scores over time. Qualitative experiential themes revealed the importance of exploration of emotions, insights, and awareness; dialectic tensions, the art process/creativity; the community; somatic experiences, and the overall effectiveness of the protocol.”

Article Access

Open Access

Sorbara, A. (2024). An integrative somatic art therapy approach: EMDR and body-based practices for traumatic stress. [Doctoral dissertation, Dominican University].  Open access: https://doi.org/10.33015/dominican.edu/2024.AT.PHD.01