Effects of the EMDR Protocol for Recent Traumatic Events on Acute Stress Disorder: A Case Series

Study to evaluate the effectiveness of the EMDR protocol for recent traumatic events in the treatment of acute stress disorder.

Article Abstract

“The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) protocol for recent traumatic events in the treatment of acute stress disorder. Within weeks of being exposed to an isolated traumatic event, 7 adults diagnosed with acute stress disorder were provided with multiple sessions of the EMDR protocol for recent traumatic events, an extended version of the EMDR therapy standard protocol. In each case, an individual’s subjective distress caused by the traumatic events was measured using the Impact of Events Scale-Revised and the goal of alleviating symptoms was accomplished. The positive results suggest the EMDR protocol for recent traumatic events may be an effective means of providing early treatment to victims of trauma, potentially preventing the development of the more severe symptoms of posttraumatic stress disorder.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Buydens, S. L., Wilensky, M., & Hensley, B. J. (2014). Effects of the EMDR Protocol for Recent Traumatic Events on Acute Stress Disorder: A Case Series. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 8(1), 2–12. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.8.1.2

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.