Treatment of Dissociation With EMDR When War Interrupts the Process: The Integration of EMDR With E-Mail Therapy

Article describes the integration of e-mail correspondence with EMDR treatment for a woman with a fear of driving & dissociative disorder.

Article Abstract

“This article describes the integration of e-mail correspondence with EMDR treatment for a woman with a fear of driving and a diagnosis of dissociative disorder, not otherwise specified (DDNOS). When the client first presented for treatment, her diagnosis was unrecognized, and treatment showed limited success. With recognition of the DDNOS diagnosis, the treatment contract was renegotiated, with the focus of therapy shifting to addressing her dissociative experiences. Therapeutic progress was being made when the course of the treatment was interrupted by war in the north of Israel, and regular meetings became impossible. Communication was maintained by e-mail correspondence. When face-to-face sessions recommenced, the e-mail therapy continued because writing had become a powerful therapeutic tool. Therapy concluded with the successful treatment of both the dissociative disorder and the fear of driving. Cautions regarding the use of e-mail therapy are provided.”

—Description from publisher

Article Access

Open Access

Cohen, A. (2009). Treatment of Dissociation With EMDR When War Interrupts the Process: The Integration of EMDR With E-Mail Therapy. Journal of EMDR Practice and Research, 3(1), 50–56. https://doi.org/10.1891/1933-3196.3.1.50

About the Journal

Journal of EMDR Practice and Research (JEMDR) is a peer-reviewed publication devoted to integrative, state-of-the-art papers about EMDR therapy. It is a broadly conceived interdisciplinary journal that stimulates and communicates research and theory about EMDR therapy and its application to clinical practice. JEMDR is the official publication of the EMDR International Association.