Efficacy of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for posttraumatic stress disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing passive and active control conditions

This study systematically reviewed and quantitatively synthesized randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for EMDR and PTSD studies published between January 2000 and December 2024, with the final search conducted in August 2025 to assess effectiveness across different comparison conditions.

Article Abstract

“Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) is a trauma-focused psychotherapy widely used in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), yet its effectiveness across different comparison conditions remains an area of ongoing investigation.

This study systematically reviewed and quantitatively synthesized randomized controlled trials (RCTs) identified through searches of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO for studies published between January 2000 and December 2024, with the final search conducted in August 2025. Study selection was performed through a two-stage screening process by independent reviewers. A total of 11 studies were included in the meta-analysis, which was conducted using a random-effects model. The findings demonstrated that EMDR was associated with a significant reduction in PTSD symptom severity compared with control conditions. Greater effects were observed when compared with passive controls, while effects were smaller and comparable when evaluated against active interventions. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) 2.0 tool, with most studies showing some methodological concerns.

Overall, the evidence supports EMDR as an effective treatment for PTSD and highlights the importance of comparator type in interpreting outcomes.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Peji, R. G. A., Lipat, D. D., & De Rojas, A. M. (2026). Efficacy of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing for posttraumatic stress disorders: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing passive and active control conditions. Cureus 18(6), e111244. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.111244