Integration of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in a prison-based therapeutic community

This chapter addresses the utilization of EMDR therapy in a prison-based therapeutic community (TC).

Chapter Access

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Akerman, G. (2024). Integration of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in a prison-based therapeutic community. In M. Siglag (Ed.) Innovative treatment approaches in forensic and correctional settings. New York, NY: Routledge. https://www.doi.org/10.4324/9781003360926

ISBN: 9781003360926

Chapter Abstract

“Incarcerated individuals who apply to participate in a prison-based therapeutic community (TC) are generally seeking to address their offending behavior and contributing factors. This could include their relationships, beliefs, and emotional management. An important aspect of this can be a wish to address the impact of past trauma. Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) is a well-established protocol to help address such trauma. This chapter describes EMDR, the techniques associated with it, and how it was introduced to a prison-based TC.”

About the Book

“This book describes targeted therapeutic interventions, programmatic approaches, and system-wide transformations of forensic mental health services.

Interventions include creative applications of a variety of multidimensional and theoretically grounded approaches. These include variations of cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), psychodynamic, psychosocial, Risk-Needs-Recovery (RNR) and Good Lives Models, and other approaches. Contributors from several countries address key topics such as aggression, sexual violence, substance use, trauma-informed care, competency restoration, and other specialized treatment areas. Clinical examples are included throughout, which include current data and research and suggestions for further research for use by clinicians working in a range of settings with a variety of treatment population subsets.

This book is essential for administrators and clinicians seeking effective and state-of-the-art approaches.”

—Description from publisher