The use of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in the treatment of psychogenic seizures

We present a case illustrating the use of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) in the treatment of psychogenic seizures. These seizures were events lasting many hours, necessitating frequent emergency room visits and an extensive medical work up. Given the patient's history, PTSD was diagnosed. EMDR is widely used as a treatment modality for PTSD, and the patient was referred for once-per-week treatment, with complete recovery after 18 months of therapy. The impact of her recovery on her quality of life was astonishing. This case supports the notion that EMDR can be an effective alternative treatment for psychogenic seizures, especially when the history reveals a traumatic event or abusive experiences.

Journal

English

Zeina Chemali
Mary-Ellen Meadows

Chemali, Z., & Meadows, M.-E. (2004, October). The use of eye movement desensitization and reprocessing in the treatment of psychogenic seizures. Epilepsy & Behavior, 5(5), 784-787