Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in cancer

This chapter describes EMDR’s role in the fight against cancer.

Chapter Abstract

“Cancer is a serious disease resulting from uncontrolled proliferation and spread of cells. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, approximately 12 million new cancer cases are diagnosed annually, with the number of deaths expressed in millions. However, significant progress can be made in the fight against cancer with timely and appropriate intervention. Cancer patients may develop various psychological responses during different stages of their illness. EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) is a therapeutic approach that processes traumatic memories and improves psychological health. EMDR’s eight-phase treatment process is based on the adaptive information processing model and helps individuals view traumatic events from a new perspective, becoming emotionally desensitized. This chapter discusses EMDR’s role in the fight against cancer.”

—Description from publisher

Chapter Access

Purchase Required

Yaşar, A.B., Kubilay, D. (2025). Eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in cancer. In E. Savaş (Ed.), Psychotherapy for cancer patients (pp. 117-141). Springer. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-88804-5_7

Print ISBN: 978-3-031-88803-8

Online ISBN: 978-3-031-88804-5

About the Book

“This integrative volume is designed as a full resource for the psychological issues associated with cancer.  Experts in a variety of areas (oncology, psychiatry, psychology, medicine, and social work) bring their insights to bear on treatment of the complex issues of cancer treatment.  A range of therapy strategies are discussed, as well as varieties of therapeutic modalities.  Included are evidence-based strategies for effective care for both individual and group settings.  Attention is also given to care beyond the patient, including families and care givers.  This volume is a comprehensive guide to providing psychotherapy in tandem with other cancer treatments and is essential guide to the present practical concerns as well as future research directions.”

—Description from publisher