Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) has demonstrated efficacy in the treatment of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This case demonstrates the successful use of EMDR for the treatment of PTSD in a patient with Asperger’s disorder and examines potential pitfalls both in detecting and treating PTSD in patients with autism spectrum disorders. Our patient was a 21–year-old female with a diagnosis of Asperger’s disorder and multiple traumas stemming primarily from physical abuse at the hands of her peers in school. Treatment was provided in an accelerated format, being provided 3 days a week for approximately 3 weeks leaving at least 1 day in between sessions. After receiving 8 EMDR sessions, her scores improved on the Posttraumatic Checklist with effects maintained at 8-month follow-up.
Date
March 1, 2014
Creator(s)
Donald Kosatka, Celia Ona
Topics
ADHD/Autism/Neurodiversity
Extent
6 pages
Publisher
Springer Publishing Company
Rights
Copyright © 2014 EMDR International Association
APA Citation
Kosatka, D., & Ona, C. (2014). Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing in a Patient With Asperger’s Disorder: Case Report. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 8(1), 13–18. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.8.1.13
Series
8
Installment
1
Audience
EMDR Therapists
Language
English
Content Type
Peer-Reviewed
Original Source
Journal of EMDR Practice and Research
Access Type
Open Access