EMDR for Survivors of Sexual and Intimate Partner Violence at a Nonprofit Counseling Agency

Trauma related to sexual violence and intimate partner violence (IPV) affects millions of women, impacting economic, physical & mental health.

Article Abstract

“Trauma related to sexual violence and intimate partner violence (IPV) affects millions of women, resulting in detrimental impacts to economic, physical, and mental health. Survivors are often subjected to repeated acts of violence or abuse, compounding the trauma and its effects. Participants in this mixed-methods research study included 41 women who experienced trauma related to sexual violence or IPV and were seeking counseling services at a nonprofit community agency. Quantitative assessment of depression, anxiety, and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) through validated measures showed statistically significant improvement in all areas after eight sessions of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR). Qualitative analysis through semi-structured individual interviews revealed improvements in assertiveness, self-control, functionality, and self-acceptance. Increasing access to EMDR across underserved communities, which are disproportionately affected by trauma, is discussed.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Schwarz, J. E., Baber, D., Giantisco, E., & Isaacson, B. (2021). EMDR for Survivors of Sexual and Intimate Partner Violence at a Nonprofit Counseling Agency. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 15(4), 202–217. https://doi.org/10.1891/EMDR-D-21-00014

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.