EMDR’s Efficacy for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

This article evaluates EMDR therapy for individuals with a diagnosis of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).

Article Abstract

“This article evaluates eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) therapy for individuals with a diagnosis of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). Two randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been conducted on 55 and 90 patients with OCD. One RCT showed that EMDR was superior to citalapram in reducing OCD symptoms, and the other found EMDR treatment and exposure and response prevention equally effective in decreasing symptoms, with results maintained at 6-month follow-up. In addition to examining these RCTs, this article looks at several case studies to discuss three types of EMDR treatment targets (past, present, and future), and the integration of EMDR therapy with cognitive behavioral strategies such as in vivo exposure. Future research is needed before any definitive conclusions can be made.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Rüdiger Böhm, K. (2019). EMDR’s Efficacy for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 13(4), 333–336. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.13.4.333

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.